Silence completely took over the onlookers in the crowd, all watching the large screen in front of them. The image in front of them shocked them beyond words, as the Tiger 1 of Chi-Ha-Tan had just flipped over several times after making a crazy maneuver by whipping its tank around to fire at the Panzer 4 of Oarai following them. At such close range, the Tiger 1's 88m cannon was undeniably going to cut right through the armor of its little sister German tank, ending the dance of fury the two commanders had had. Yet after the Tiger 1 had flipped over several times, it's 88mm gun being destroyed in the process, made the onboard systems overload and the white kill flag pop up on the flag tank.
It had been spectacular, awe-inspiring, breathtaking, outstanding, nerve-wracking, magnificent, and whatever other words the people in attendance or watching at home could come up with. Yet the one thing everyone was wondering, were holding their breath for and were looking at each other in wonderment.
Who won?
The match-ending gun had sounded off, yet no winner had been announced on the screen. That was because not only had the white kill flag of the flag tank Tiger 1 had pop up, but also the white kill flag of Oarai's Hetzer 38 had pop up, due to the Mk 4 Valentine hitting it in the back as it try to flee away from the tank. Both flags had seemed to pop up just at the same time as the other, from what the replays were constantly showing.
Now there was just silence, no usual sudden cries from the victorious side, or tears flowing from the side that loss. All were just staring at the screen with unbridle anxiety, waiting for the Sensha-do referees to make the call and announce the winner. Yet they were dragging their feet at the moment, making some to begin to vent about who was the winner.
"Make the call!"
"Who won!?"
"What are the referees doing!?"
"Chi-Ha-Tan won, just say it!?"
"No Oarai won!"
"Announce the winner!"
"What are you waiting for!?"
The voices of displeasure now coming from the crowds of both sides, be it students, casual viewer, or fans of both sides of the club begun to ring together. That went double for the section of the Chi-Ha-Tan suspended members who were chafing at the bit to know who won, as they had been cheering as loud as anyone when Miho got her batter Tiger 1 moving and take down her adversaries. Again showing her prowess as the Tigress tank commander they all knew she was, while they also wanted to rush onto the field to check to see if she was alright.
Yet nothing was being said by the Federation, who show the trio of referees seeming to go over the footage of the last two shots that took out both opposing side's tank. It was as if they trying to decipher who was kill first since the match ending gun was so close to both being taken out. After some more time, the head Federation Referee seem to make a decision and made a net call to the PA department.
Suddenly a loud voice boomed on the PA system. "Attention, attention! After reviewing the footage, it has been determined by the referees that Oarai's flag tank's Hetzer kill flag popped up a half second before Chi-Ha-Tan's flag tank. Making the winner of this match Chi-Ha-Tan Academy!"
There was some silence at first from those who heard the announcement. That didn't last long as the Chi-Ha-Tan section began to cheer loud for the victory, with many letting out a long breath they had been holding in for what seem like ages. Chi-Ha-Tan had won, their third in a row, against all the odds place against them once more, but again finding the resolve that only tigresses knew. Never giving in, never saying never, and always ready to bear their fangs to the foe.
Yet there was no mistake about how close the victory was, obtain by only mere seconds of their own flag tank's kill flag coming up just behind the Oarai flag tank. However that was just how the match had been going, fought by two teams who were scrappy in nature, who weren't supposed to be at this stage, but were here because they claw their way by their teams belief in their climb to the top of the Sensha-do mountain.
Now one was going home, the other was going on. Besides the punch that had made many angry on both sides, the American allies had put on a great show for rookies who never fought in Sensha-do. Making many wonder if other nations around the world would soon start their own Sensha-do teams to compete in Japan, which would be welcome, but only if they could conduct themselves properly.
Though there was no denying the bitterness that would hang over the American tankers for some time for their actions of one of their members now known as a Nishizumi, which hopefully time could heal, as the future of Sensha-do seem to be taking great strides for the future that everyone was excited for.
The battle was now over, and for many on both sides, there was a time to react to their team's fate, happy or sad, their time to process was now.
XxxxX
Yukari Akiyama's father, Jungorou Akiyama slowly sat back down on the bleacher seat. His face showed undeniable anguish that was matched by the fans of Oarai that surrounded him. Though there were some casual fans as well praising Chi-Ha-Tan's victory, only adding to the agony of this proud father who had just witnessed his daughter's team lose after such a long and arduous fight.
As any supportive father, Jungorou took the lost personally. It was his 'little bear' who had fought so hard to get to this point, that it seem unfair that now it was all over. Yukari had grown so happy in her short time of doing tankery, happier than she ever was growing up and dealing with the loneliness because of her obsession with tanks that cause her to be unable to make friends. A part of Jungorou wonder if she might regress in her progress with this lost, knowing that everything was over.
Clasping his hands together, he pray to a higher power, thankful that his daughter was safe as well as the rest of the Oarai, the American ally team, and also the Chi-Ha-Tan team. A prayer also went up too from Jungorou that his daughter would somehow stay this happy, to never fall back into that pit of despair ever again. He also ask for forgiveness, to look past his sin as father that never truly accepted his daughter's passion for something she love. That now going forward, he would always be by her side, helping her nurture her love that might become her career someday.
Nothing would make him happier in life, than for that to happen.
A sudden feel of a soft warm hand on his shoulder, brought Jungorou from his prayers, to take in the sight of his wife, the love of his life, his best friend, and his constant support. She had taken a seat next to him, with a prideful smile at her husband.
"Dear, let us not fret over results shall we? Our little bear has fought so hard, that when we see her next, she needs to know how proud we are. Show her that she can hold her head high for all the greatness she has display to this point," Yoshiko Akiyama said in a tender tone that made her husband's heart feel at ease.
"Yes honey, we need to show her how proud we...we...we," Jungorou try to say, but lower his head, using one hand to push his glasses up some, as tears fell from his face that he try to cover with his hand now. His heart taking the loss just as hard as the Oarai girls were.
Looking at her husband, Yoshiko just smile. Even though small tears were threatening to come out from her as well. She wasn't one to shed tears, but she knew Jungorou was a big softie. It had been that way since they were kids, when he would always stand up to any bullies going after his friends. Tears would always be in his eyes, but was always determine to protect those he care about it.
It was because of this honest personality that made Yoshiko fall in love with him. That protection was only made more evident when Yukari was born, always watching over her when she ran around the shop, making sure to keep her away from anything that might hurt her. If she did fall and hurt herself, Jungorou would be there in an instant to make sure she was alright.
Now Yoshiko would need Jungorou to stand strong again to help their daughter see that this loss was not the end, but only the start of Yukari's journey to something new. They as her parents would do all they could to see that their little bear keep soaring high for her own dreams.
I'm so proud of my family
Yoshiko thought, as she look to the large monitor to see her daughter jump out of her tank and run for the batter Tiger 1, most likely going to check on the opposing team's crew.
XxxxX
There was nothing but silence, undeniable silence that surrounded the interior of the Tiger 1 that was badly damage after flipping over several times. Inside the tank was a mess, as some of the shells sitting on the racks had come loose and were sitting on the floor of the tank after the violent flipping, while various splattering's of machine gun ammo that had fell out their boxes also litter the floor.
Slowly there were sounds of groans echoing in the tank, follow by hisses and soft curses of pain. Miho was the first to open her right eye to look around, feeling the unmistakable pain all over her body, which seem to have intensify from before. As being toss around in the tank, even with the carbon lining for the protection of the crew, had done its damage on her body.
Pushing through the pain, Miho look down to Nene and Nomi in her arms, clinging to her with all their might. They look for the most part to be unharmed, with most likely some bruises on their body being the only worries, yet for Miho who had gain their affection as their surrogate mother, to which she had accepted that role intensely now, panic search them over to make sure they were safe.
"Nene, Nomi, are you girls alright?" Miho said, rubbing the twin's faces to wake them up.
Soft grunts came from both girls, with each of them turning their faces to look to Miho. Each of them look beyond exhausted at this point, but their soft smiles warmed Miho's heart, telling her they were alright right and were glad to see her.
"Were good," Nomi spoke first.
"Speak for yourself, I got enough bruises here to make it look like I went twelve rounds in a boxing match," Nene complain with a smile.
Miho chuckle, then spoke. "Lets get up, we need to check on the others."
The twins obey, getting up gingerly as they hiss with every movement. Then they help Miho to her feet, who lean on them for support, with neither twin complaining, knowing Miho was on her last legs. They got their bearings that they were near the commanders position in the tank still, so they work their way down lower into the tank near the 88mm gun's breech.
"Moteki, Watabe, are you alright? Speak to me please," Miho said, her voice having evident worry about her last two crew members.
Nothing but silence follow the question, with Miho feeling great apprehension about the two members who weren't speaking. The trio made their way down to the bow gunners position, knowing Moteki had got out of her seat to get to Watabe, with each ginger step over AP Shells or machine gun bullets, made Miho anxious to know her last cubs were alright.
They finally made it to the bow gunners chair, where they took in the sight of Moteki who practically wrap her whole body around the smaller Watabe, as the two were laying on their sides on the cold metal ground. Something caught Miho's eye, being in the form of an AP shell that had fallen onto Moteki's right ankle.
"Girls, help me get that off her ankle," Miho said, feeling her tiredness dissipate with the need to look after her crew member.
Quickly all three of them move to get the heavy shell off their crew member's ankle, it took some solid effort from these tired girls, but they soon got it off her. Miho let out a breath, then lean down over Moteki touching her cheek, while Nene and Nomi went to the other side to check on Watabe. They carefully separated the two girls from each other as well.
"Moteki, talk to me," Miho said with quiet worry, stroking her drivers face.
A small grunt follow the plea, as Moteki's eyes open slowly, while she turn over a little to look up at Miho as she spoke. "Mom, are you o-."
Moteki let out a cry of pain, as the agony in her ankle felt like someone had lit it on fire. She instantly move a hand down to touch the area, but Miho stop her, not wanting her to cause herself more pain by touching it. Gripping her hand tightly, Miho did her best to soothe her driver who was in agony now, with the ankle probably more than sprain after a shell landed on it.
"It hurts, it hurts," Moteki cry quietly.
"I know honey, I know," Miho said, pressing her face down on Moteki's, laying some gentle kisses on her forehead, hoping to ease her driver's pain.
Watabe grunted now as she woke up, her spectacles were gone, leaving her a little blind since they help her eyesight a lot. Quickly she roll over onto her back, with her arms flailing looking for something to grab onto, which the twins quickly became that thing to hold onto. As both girls pull Watabe up slowly to a sitting position to hold her in a group hug between them.
"You're ok, your sisters are here," Nene said in a soothing tone, rubbing some hair from Watabe's face, that was sticking to it because the poor girl was sweating a lot.
"We got you Watabe, were here for you," Nomi said from the other end of the hug, gripping one of the stuttering girls hand to try to calm her down.
"Wh…wh…wh…wheres…Mo…Mo…Moteki?" Watabe ask a bit panic.
"I'm here Watabe," Moteki call out to her tankery sister, her voice still etch with pain.
"Ar…are..y…y…you ok?" Watabe said, reaching a hand out to Moteki.
A painful chuckle escape Moteki's lips. "Be lying if I said yes. Yet it's ok, because you're safe."
Watabe tear up at the comment, as she reply. "You dum…dum…dummy."
Touching her hand with Watabe's, Moteki spoke. "Yep the biggest dummy in the world."
That made the crew chuckle together, glad that they were all safe. Miho felt herself finally relax, then pull Moteki into a sitting position across her lap, holding her driver close to her chest, whispering soothing words to try to ease Moteki's mind as best she could, as the pain in the driver's ankle was beginning to grow more painful with every passing second.
"Well, guess there's no need to check if the white kill flag pop up on our tank," Nomi said in a defeated tone.
"Huh, so you do have good observation skills captain obvious," Nene couldn't help but tease.
"Why you," Nomi growl at her twin.
"Your comedy routine doesn't ever end does it?" Moteki joke through clench teeth.
"It's not a comedy routine!" Both twins said together.
There was some silence for a moment, then Watabe let out a little giggle, that soon became a chuckle, then uncontrollable laughter. This was follow by Miho, then everyone else, laughing together, enjoying a much needed light moment between them. They were letting go of despair for the familial bond they enjoy with one another, that had started the very day fate had brought them together.
As the chuckles die down, Miho look to all her cubs, then spoke. "I love it in here, I really do."
"M…m…m….me..t…t…to," Watabe stutter happily.
"Best crew I ever had," Moteki said, gripping Miho's tankery jacket, practically hugging her.
"Best crew I ever had," Nomi repeated.
"But this is the first crew we ever been in, does that make sense?" Nene couldn't help but want to be specific.
"Ugh, yet again the dunce ruins a moment," Nomi said with a shake of the head.
"Ye…ye…yea…come on..Ne…Ne…Nene," Watabe added in.
"Hey! I just making sure we-," Nene try to argue, but the sounds of frantic footsteps over their tanks hull, echo throughout the crew area.
There was next the sound of the hatch above the bow gunners area being lifted open. Miho and her crew could tell it was a struggle, but whoever was struggling was giving it their all, as the hatch must have been damaged by the tank flipping over. Eventually whoever was pulling, finally got the grip as slowly the hatch was open, letting in daylight for the crew who had to cover their eyes as the bright sun was let in and try to adjust their eyes to the sun.
"Miss Nishizumi! Are you and your crew alright!?" A voice call to them.
Instantly, Miho could pick out Yukari's voice, letting a breath of relief past her lips, then spoke. "Miss Akiyama, I'm here. Please help my crew get out."
Leaning her face into the open hatch, Yukari look down at them with a smile of relief to see them safe. "You got it Miss Nishizumi."
Yukari's other crew members came up too to help. Slowly, Miho's crew were lifted out of the tank, first being Moteki who was help up as gently as they could. Next was Watabe, then the twins following her, with Miho being the last to be help out, as always, she thought of her crew first.
When it was finally her turn, Yukari reach a hand out to Miho, to which the Chi-Ha-Tan commander took gratefully, as her legs were jello at this point. Finally outside the tank, Miho took in the sight of the once gray and gloomy skies that had been a constant since the match started, now were gone, replace by a beautiful blue sky and bright sun. Miho felt the warm sun on her face, making her feel a lot better.
"Miss Nishizumi, are you alright? What happen to your eye?" Yukari ask, as the two were situated on top of Tiger 1 still, sitting down in close proximity to one another.
Turning her eyes to Yukari, Miho spoke. "I'm ok, just want a long nap. With my eye, well it's a long story."
"I'm grateful to hear it, I heard on the radio from the referee's that you jump into the water to save one of the American tankers," Yukari said, her voice feel with elation.
Miho sadly smile, now knowing Yukari must not have known what had happen between Fukushu and her, then spoke. "I save Fukushu, as her tank fell off the bridge as I'm sure you saw."
"Oh, I didn't. My track was shot out by your teammate, I was trying to repair as quickly as I could to catch up. What happen after that?" Yukari ask.
Taking a deep breath, Miho explain everything to Yukari in a short version. Having to jump into the cold water to save Fukushu, then getting her to the bank safely in the rushing water. Then performing CPR to resituate Fukushu, but then the next moment when the American Nishizumi berated Miho, while having a nervous breakdown. The last part being hard to say, but Miho said it anyway, of Fukushu punching her which was why her left eye was swollen.
When she was done explaining, Yukari was just silent. Having to take all this information in, at first not wanting to believe it. Her reasoning being that for the couple of short days Fukushu and Yukari spent together training, she had seen the American girl be so full of life and laughter, there was a general love for Sensha-do in her eyes. Which made it hard for Yukari to swallow that her new friend had done something like this.
Though the little outburst before the match, where Fukushu lit into Miho had been the first inclination that things weren't so happy between the two, Yukari had hope the match would make Fukushu see Miho was nothing like she claim she was. Now that was a foolish notion that Yukari could see, that there were deeper problems that she had no idea of.
With her heart fill now with sadness of her childish understanding of the situation, thinking she should have done more, Yukari looked at Miho as she spoke. "Miss Nishizumi, please forgive me."
"Forgive you? For what?" Miho said, looking sidelong at the girl.
"I thought I could fix the situation by just saying to Fukushu about how great you were, how down to earth you were, and how you were nothing like she claim you were," Yukari explain lowering her head.
"It's not your fault, in fact, you did some good by trying to make my half-sister see how great tankery is," Miho said back.
Raising her head, Yukari took in Miho's eyes again. "Yet look at you, she punch you. I could have done more to prevent this, but I just thought this situation could be fix with words, it was a stu-."
Yukari's rant was stop when she felt Miho's hand touch her face, with a pleasant smile as she spoke. "Miss Akiyama, even I didn't know how bad Fukushu was hurting. Even now words can't easily fix things for us, but I like to think the path to my family being brought together has been started. It's been started with you."
That made Yukari balk to hear the praise from her idol. "I didn't do anything though."
"You've done a lot. You show Fukushu how Sensha-do can be something positive, something fun, something that brings us together. I had to have friends show me that was possible to get to where I am, you've done the same for her, thank you so much Miss Akiyama I owe you a great debt for looking after my half-sister," Miho explain to Yukari, then bow her head in appreciation.
Yukari was stun for a moment, then smile brightly as she bow her head as well. "Thank you for being the first to show me how great Sensha-do is."
Then both girls raise their heads to look one another in the eye, then Yukari fidgeted a bit with a blush as she spoke. "Can I ask for a favor Miss Nishizumi?"
Miho chuckle at how fluster the curly fluffy hair girl was, then spoke. "Sure, what do you need?"
Taking a breath for courage, Yukari ask her most important question, "can…can…can….can we be friends?"
A simple request, one made in another time, which in this time, would be answer as well. Miho simply didn't respond, looking at Yukari with her heartwarming smile, then decided actions would be her answer. Leaning forward, Miho wrap her arms around Yukari who yelp softly by the surprise contact, but relish in the touch of her new friend. Quickly she wrap her arms around Miho, even if fate had taken her from fighting alongside each other, at least it had still granted her this moment still.
"I will be honored to call you my friend Miss Akiyama," Miho whisper softly.
"Thank you…thank you so much," Yukari said back.
Then the two pull away from one another, as Miho spoke. "I guess you won the match, thank you for a good game."
Yukari let a look of perplexation cross her face. "Oh I guess you didn't hear, makes sense since your Tiger 1's radio probably got destroyed after you flip over."
"Heard what?" Miho ask with a sidelong glance.
"You won the match, your Valentine Mk 4 got our Hetzer. They say the difference of the kill flags coming up was mere seconds, with the Hetzer being a second ahead of yours," Yukari explain.
Miho let out a breath, feeling great relief they had won. With the difference being mere seconds, which could have gone the other way around. Yet Maita had won the match for them, at the same time proving again that every member of the Tigress Corps could obtain victory for their team, it wasn't just Miho doing everything, just as her friends always reminded her.
Next the odd feeling of being ashamed, as Miho could tell her face must have had a great relief knowing she had won, while her opponent was right in front of her, having to deal with the great weight of defeat on her shoulders.
"Miss Akiyama, you've fought this battle with great skill and cunning tactics. I take great pride in having met you on the field of battle, with your crew and your team who have shown us all how fun tankery can be," Miho said, doing her best to show the respect Yukari deserve.
Yukari who had been so go happy at this point, now finally allow the reality of defeat to set in. The terrible knowledge that things were over, that there was no tomorrow for her team of oddballs, who had bonded so much over Sensha-do. Now they had to accept the dream was over, that there was nothing more to do, but go back to their school carrier and return to their normal school lives.
"I guess….I….I…," Yukari said, as tears began to flow, the taste of loss in her mind fully.
Unable to stand by anymore, Miho lean forward to hug Yukari again. Stroking her hair, while whispering things would be alright. Grateful for the show of comfort, Yukari hug Miho back, letting her emotions free. Letting out her frustration and sadness, because she herself hadn't wanted to lose this match. It was a selfish thought, but as a competitor it was within her right to feel this way, with Miho letting her know it was alright to feel this way.
"You are a true tanker, Miss Akiyama. I already look forward to our next match, that will probably be this exhausting as well and just as fun," Miho whisper into Yukari's ear.
The crying stop, as Yukari chuckle a little, then pull back to look Miho again in her eyes as she dry her tears. "Yes, I look forward to it as well. I kind of have to pay you back for using my move on me."
"I think Anizo would argue were stealing their move," Miho joke, causing both girls to chuckle again.
As their chuckles die down, Yukari wanted something else. "Miss Nishizumi, can I make one more request?"
"Sure," Miho reply.
"Can I call you by your first name?" Yukari ask boldly, knowing she was asking a lot from her new friend.
Miho blush a little from this request, then remember she had ask her team to call her by her first name, because she wanted to be know just simply by Miho, not associated with the Nishizumi family. Yet know she wanted to be a Nishizumi, yet at the same time being her own person, not following what was establish in the past, but establish now in the present.
"Sure, only if I can call you by your first name, you can drop the Miss as well, especially if we're friends," Miho said happily.
"Oh…alright…Miho," Yukari said timidly, but with a bright smile.
"Yes, Yukari," Miho said back, with both girls smiling like fools at one another.
"Hey!" a voice call out to them.
Miho turn with Yukari, to look down from the Tiger 1 to a girl with long ginger colored hair and light brown eyes, wearing stylish long black thigh high socks with the Ooarai tankery uniform. She had a pout of her face with her arms on her hips, obviously upset by the two girls for some reason.
"No fair, I wanted to befriend this cute Chi-Ha-Tan commander too," Saori said annoy.
"Cute!" Miho yelp in surprise.
The reaction made Saori tilt her head in confusion, then spoke. "Uh yea, haven't you look in a mirror lately. Your like ultra cute, been wanting to meet you and see what the fuss was all about, since Yukari here has a fangasm every time your name is mention."
"Ah, don't make me out to be a weirdo," Yukari reply with an embarrass look on her face.
"Too late for that commander, but your weirdness is your endearing trait really," a short girl with waist-length thick black hair that has bangs covering her forehead, a white headband and dark hazel eyes, she also had a sleepy look to her face.
"Mako please, don't make Miho think of me like that," Yukari whine again to her driver.
"We really aren't being very respectful ladies, I believe we should introduce ourselves to hopefully our new friend. Since Yukari has taken it upon herself to ask for first names, may we as well call you by your first name?" An elegant girl with long black hair and dark grey eyes said, having the look of someone train to be graceful all her life.
"Oh, I am honored to become friends with Yukari's crew, you all are quite elite by Sensha-do standards. My name is Miho Nishizumi, you may call me by my first name," Miho said, then bow her head to the trio of girls.
The other girls bow and said their names.
"Saori Takebe, I plan to make a man fall in love with me one day."
"Mako Reizei, I just want to sleep now."
"Hana Isuzu, I'm very pleased to have met you."
The girls all introduce themselves follow with another round of bows. For just a moment, that seem to make time stop, Miho took in the sight of these girls. Again that odd feeling like they belong with each other came to Miho, like these girls and her were supposed to have been put together, to fight together, laugh together, and grow together. Yet that wasn't the case, right now they were on the opposite side of things, with fate separating them.
At another time, another place, they would have been brought together as well by tankery, fighting and winning, learning and growing from one another. Yet again, that wasn't this time, not this place, yet at the moment they were allowed to come together by Sensha-do, that would still bond them to one another.
"You heard that, she call us elite. Think we can get some screen time soon on the Sensha-do Battle Network? I love for this face to be spread to Japan," Saori ask, her mind already thinking of the possibilities of every guy seeing her on the network, which would do wonders for her love life, as nonexistent as it was.
"If it gets me out of school and more sleep, I'm all in," Mako said, yawning as well, to proclaim her tiredness.
"Mako! Take this seriously!" Saori whine.
Hana just shook her head at her friends, then climb up the tank to where Yukari and Miho were sitting. Next she grab a handkerchief from her skirt pocket, to wipe away some of the sweat from Miho's face, being as gentle as she could around her bruised eye.
"That's a nasty cut, does it hurt terribly?" Hana ask.
"No, I just hope it doesn't leave a permanent mark on my face," Miho reply, appreciating the gentle touch Hana had.
"Yes, we may be tankers, but were still girls after all, it be a waste to have your beauty tarnish when were so young," Hana said, looking over her work, glad to see she had clean Miho up the best she could.
"Your right, are you the gunner for the Panzer 4?" Miho ask.
"Oh yes, though I'm still very much inexperience, compare to your crew's gunner," Hana reply back.
Miho shook her head. "No you are very skilled. I think you would have been accepted by a top four team with your skills."
Hana blush a bit from the admiration, then spoke. "Why thank you very much Miss Miho. You are everything Yukari said you were, not just as a commander, but a humble lady as well."
"Thank you, by the way, where's your fifth crew member?" Miho ask, wanting to meet everyone.
Yukari searched for her loader, then spotted Kisa looking over the first years of Miho's crew. Doing her best to keep Moteki's leg elevated to reduce the swelling that was starting, while she was also chatting with the opposing crew, and judging from a distance, Kisa was getting along with them swimmingly.
"Oh, over there is my loader Kisa, I can call her over for introductions," Yukari said, turning to look at Miho.
"No, she looks happy talking with my crew, I'll meet her later," Miho said, watching with a smile at the friendliness the two sides had for one another.
Then something dawn on Miho, a promise that needed to be fulfill, as much as she didn't want to do it.
Turning back to look at Yukari, Miho spoke. "Miss Yukari, I told you before, win or lose this match, I tell you why I didn't transfer to Oarai."
The statement got Yukari's attention, which was followed by Mako, Saori, and Hana all focusing in, as they didn't know Miho was going to transfer to their school. Now they were shocked and curious to know why she didn't transfer to their school as well as Yukari.
"Oh, you did say that. Look if it's something very personal, we can forget it," Yukari said, remembering how flustered Miho had become when she ask about the very subject, when she snuck aboard the Akagi to spy on Chi-Ha-Tan.
"No, it's important, especially now. I must tell you," Miho said, looking Yukari in the eye with fortitude.
Yukari said nothing back, just nodding her head for Miho to say what she needed to her.
Taking a deep breath, Miho spoke. "It's because your school i…."
All of the sudden a wave of fatigue washed over Miho, the adrenaline from earlier now wearing off. Her whole body felt like it went limp, as she slouch forward. Yukari was quick to act, catching Miho who lay into her. The side of Miho's face was pressed against Yukari's chest, as there was no more energy left in the Chi-Ha-Tan commander.
"Miss Miho!" Yukari said with evident worry in her voice, making sure to hold Miho close to her.
"We need the referees down here!" Hana said, looking to Saori.
"On it, I'll get on the radio," Saori said, running back for the Panzer 4.
With what little energy Miho had left, she spoke to Yukari. "I'm…sor…sorr…sorry."
"It's ok, you don't have to speak anymore. Save your strength, we're going to get you back to your team," Yukari said with encouragement.
That made Miho let out a tired smile across her face, then snuggle into Yukari, letting her eye close and the sweet need for sleep take over.
XxxxX
"That is it folks, the finale of this stupendous match. With the end of it making us hold our breath till I'm sure many of you might have passed out, but we have our winner, with Chi-Ha-Tan Academy defeating Oarai Girls Academy to advance for the first time in fifteen years to the Semi-Final," Fumihiko Sakaguchi, the Sensha-do Battle Network host said on the set.
"And what a match it was, we saw all we could want, yet I still want more," Susan Marshall said, the co-host for the broadcast.
"Yes, we saw the unorthodox tactic use by Chi-Ha-Tan that resembles Viggen High School who play the waiting game for their opponent, which prove to make Oarai split their forces to find their foe," Fumihiko said.
Susan nodded. "Yes, very odd, yet very effective. Playing on an opponent's patience is not something we think of using in Sensha-do as a tactic. Most want to get into the action, but allowing Ooarai to have the city was a most effective ruse."
"Could you elaborate on that?" Fumihiko ask.
"Certainly," Susan said, then began her explanation. "When it comes to city fighting, most teams want to get to it first, set up their elaborate defenses, and choke points. Yet allowing Oarai to win the race, meaning they did all this positioning for naught, as there was nothing they did to force Chi-Ha-Tan to attack the city. They just assume it come down to a fight in the city, to which play to the strength of Oarai who had good heavy armor tanks and also great urban fighting tanks at their disposal."
Fumihiko touch his chin, nodding to the explanation given, then spoke. "So essentially give them what they wanted all along. While Chi-Ha-Tan was allowed to do the same, but outside the city in the countryside."
"Yes, both sides did the same thing, but Oarai waited too long to send a scout force out. Had they done it earlier they might have gotten a hint of Chi-Ha-Tan's ploy, but by the time Miss Akiyama sent them out, they were playing right into Miss Nishizumi's hands. Again showing the brilliance of this young lady's tactics, she is just way too unpredictable," Susan explain, her respect for Miho apparent in her voice.
"Very unpredictable, now we go on to the middle of the match, how do you feel Oarai handle themselves?" Fumihiko ask.
"They handle it well, not bringing their relief force all in one long line, they spilt them to attack around the flanks of the Chi-Ha-Tan ambushers who were pinning their scouts down in the small village. Also, they did a good job of not mixing their units, keeping the Americans with their own platoon, so orders could be communicated in each other's native tongue smoothly," Susan explain.
Fumihiko nodded at that, then turn to the camera to speak. "Yes, Miss Akiyama was allow to show her command skill in this moment, but Miss Nishizumi again thwarted at least one of the relief columns by using a very rare tank, that even I know was said to have been lost to history," this host said, then turn to Susan to allow her to comment.
"Yes, a Type 5 Na-To, I've only read about this odd Japanese tank that only two were made at the end of the war. Yet again it looks like a half-track almost, but is a tank in nature, and give it a Type 5 75mm gun, it's a sniping tank that can stand tall with top four team tanks," Susan commented.
"Yes, this tank did its job, taking out the Type 3 Chu-Ni of Oarai, while holding up the Panzer 4 and A43 Black Prince. Yet in the end, the American allies of Oarai were able to complete their flanking movement, while working together with their air force were able to drive the Chi-Ha-Tan ambushers from their positions and chase them off," Fumihiko recounted.
Susan nodded in agreement, then added her voice. "A great show of composure on the part of Miss Akiyama."
"How so?" Fumihiko question.
"When the Chi-Ha-Tan air force completed its first attack run in the match, most commanders might have call in their own to counter, however it seems Miss Akiyama maybe had an inkling that might happen. She had her air force attack the Chi-Ha-Tan ambushers, which force the enemy air force come attack them, leaving Miss Tamada with no air support when she began her attack on the city," Susan elaborated.
"Trading deception for deception it seems. Miss Tamada had a hard time of it trying to attack the city with her tanks, with the biggest hurdle being the Type 5 Chi-Ri. Again it seems the rumors of Ooarai having tanks just lying around their ship seems to be true, especially when history said this tank was never completed," Fumihiko said, looking to his co-host to commentate on.
Susan chuckled. "Yes, it seems like Oarai might just be a place for odd and rare tanks to come together. Rumors also said the Type 5 Chi-Ri was supposed to be built with a state-of-the-art auto drum loader, which seems to be true by how fast its fire rate was."
"Certainly, it gave even a Sherman Jumbo tank a hard time. It did enough to force Miss Tamada's tanks back, while Oarai call in an artillery strike to stop the Chi-Ha-Tan attack. We were next brought to another awesome spot in the match," Fumihiko said, handing his commentary off to Susan, knowing she knew what he was talking about.
"Ah yes, the insane long shot made by Miss Nishizumi that was just over 1500 meters taking out the M18 Hellcat, breaking the record set by my underclassmen Miss Naomi. I'm sure she will want to prove one day she can match that," Susan said.
"As I'm sure a lot of gunners of Sensha-do will want to match one day, after that insane long shot, we were next to witness Miss Nishizumi hold off the American allies and Miss Akiyama, while the Chi-Ha-Tan operator tank had to run with its escorts from another detachment of the Oarai team. How would describe the incredible fight and flight Miss Nishizumi had to take to keep their team's flag tank in the fight?" Fumihiko ask his co-host.
At first, Susan just shook her head, with a look of disbelief on her face. "I still at this point can't find the words to describe it. As you know a Tiger 1, like most German tanks, were designed to fight stationary. However, Miss Nishizumi seems to not get the memo, using her tank in the exact opposite way, brawling with other tanks up close."
"Yes, definitely not the way we've seen her use her tank, compare to the last matches. Unfortunately, we couldn't see the fight in the woods from the drones, but once they were out, it was an all-out fight to the bridge with some of the Chi-Ha-Tan team coming to help their commander, with Miss Nishizumi smartly taking out the wooden bridge supports to weaken the integrity so it would collapse after she cross," Fumihiko said.
"A more than a brilliant decision on her part. Though what happen next was very controversial," Susan said, looking a little distraught.
"Understandably a very sore spot in this match, when the American tanker name Fukushu Nishizumi, struck Miho her now know half-sister. The punch cause the match to be delayed so that Miss Miho Nishizumi could receive medical attention, though again the young girl surprise us by breaking up the fighting between her crew and the American crew, while forgiving her sister," Fumihiko recounted.
Susan smile brightly. "Yes, she never ceases to amaze. Which was made more evident when her final battle with the four Ooarai tanks. She move like someone possess, her Tiger 1 flowing over the battlefield like it was in a dance, anticipating every move."
"It's something we can't even begin to comprehend. In my long years of watching Sensha-do, I've never seen a commander move their tank as she did. My best example would be your exploits Miss Susan in the 61st National Tournament, when you took on the older Nishizumi, Miss Maho, having to take on most of Kuromorimine by yourself," Fumihiko said, again bringing up his host most pivotal moment in Sensha-do.
Susan shook her head. "No, in my case I pick my moments to attack. Never would I take on more than one tank at a time, yet Miss Nishizumi took on four tanks all at once. Let that sink in, with all of them more than capable to deal with the Tiger 1, yet together they were thwarted time and time again. We might have just seen a birth of a real legend in tankery."
"A legend that could rival Maho and Shiho Nishizumi. Yet let's not take anything away from the rest of the Chi-Ha-Tan team, especially the first years who took on a veteran Oarai team, I believe they allow their nerves to calm down and perform as I'm sure their commander expected of them," Fumihiko said, turning the subject over to other members.
"Absolutely," Susan agree. "Though this should be the norm for us now. Miho may be very impressive, but her team as a whole fights with a deep belief in one another. You can just tell by watching them, that they live by a code."
"What code do believe this team follows?" Fumihiko ask.
"Well I don't want to put words in other people's mouths, but I think I have a good one that I believe in myself. A great man once said, it don't matter about me, what matters to me is sacrificing for you, for the ultimate goal that is us."
For a moment Fumihiko was stunned silent, letting the words spoken be absorb.
"Well…Miss Susan you certainly find the right words, as I believe that definitely describes Chi-Ha-Tan's team," the Sensha-do co-host said.
"Thank you," Susan said, with a bow of the head.
"Looks like were just about out of time for our broadcast. I like to ask some final questions, with this loss for Oarai, how does Miss Akiyama improve for next year? While on the other end, how does Miss Nishizumi and her Tigress Corps stay focused for their possible next match, which might be against another top four teams?"
Susan absorbed the questions, took a deep breath, and replied. "To the first question. Study…study…study, is what Miss Akiyama must do. She has a knack for relying on unconventional tactics to win the day, but when someone else is equally unconventional I think it becomes her achilles heel. I believe she is still in the infancy of forming her own Sensha-do style, that one day will fully blossom, and time is her great ally for this to happen."
Now Susan move on to her next question. "For Miss Nishizumi and her Tigress Corps, I believe recovery is going to be paramount. Since in a week they will be right back on the battlefield, while they have fought two long battles against Saunders and Oarai who gave them everything. Most other matches of this tournament have ended quite quickly in the first round, allowing teams to rest, but Miho especially will have to recover from her injuries to be ready. I just hope she doesn't push herself too hard, as that might hurt her team if she becomes unavailable for the next match. Not to mention their Tiger 1 took a bad tumble, which will need a lot of repairs to be ready in a short time."
"That was well said, Miss Susan. Well folks, that's it for our broadcast, it's been an absolute pleasure to have brought you commentary on this match, a special thanks goes to our staff here, and also to our beautiful co-host Miss Susan. I certainly hope we have you on set once more in the future," Fumihiko said, turning to look at his co-host.
Bowing with her head to Fumihiko, Susan rose back up to speak. "As I am very grateful for you having me."
"From me, Miss Susan, and all of the staff of the Sensha-do Battle Network, we bid you a good day, and can't wait to see you again for our next match as the champions Pravda take on upstart Maginot Girls Academy for the right to battle Chi-Ha-Tan in the semi-final. Till next time, have a good afternoon," Fumihiko said his final line for the broadcast.
XxxxX
"So are we just going to keep sitting here in silence?" Konomi said, still sitting in the press box, with a bruised face, holding Shiho's hand next to her.
Shiho let out a sigh, then let go of Konomi's hand as she stood up. "No, I believe it's time for us to go."
Nodding, Konomi stood as well, turning to face her cousin. "You were right Shiho."
"Right about what?" Shiho ask with a perplexed look.
"Right about me not knowing the resolve of my niece. No matter how scarred, bloodied, or batter Miho got, she fought back with a ferocity that no one could contend with. She really is a tigress," Konomi said in a solemn tone.
Pulling at her memory, Shiho did remember telling Konomi of the resolve of Miho. That could no longer be overlooked, as Shiho's youngest had shown the world and more importantly Shiho herself, that Miho is a tank commander like no other. The Nishizumi style was still part of Miho's fighting style, but she had made it her own. Form it to how she fights, with how her team fights, that display all the great attributes the Shiho had seen in Miho when she was very young, but had suppressed when the change came to be.
"She even pass my own expectations at this point. I always try to subdue this part of her growing up, trying to make her see that her family's style was all that mattered in the end, that any deviation was heresy," Shiho explain, rubbing her forehead in frustration at herself.
"I never wanted to hurt her, you know that right?" Konomi said, trying to get a point across.
"You still proceeded with this path of revenge. I may have been your target, but taking my daughters down was what you were going to do first, whether you didn't or did want to hurt them, it was going to happen any way," Shiho said, still not happy about what happened to Miho because of Tsueno's illegitimate child.
Konomi nodded in acceptance. "In the end, I was no better than my own mother. I use Fukushu to obtain power, repeating our dark past. We're still stuck in loop that never seems to stop."
"It's not like I didn't do the same. For years my obsession was to make sure the Nishizumi name rose to heights unattainable by others, with my daughters being the tools to make it happen, forgoing our once close bonds for prestige," Shiho said, feeling sick to her stomach about how far she had fallen off the edge.
"I guess after giving it some thought, we really were a product of our time. Panzer Kettō, it took so much from us, all for what in the end I wonder? Even to this day that question is stuck in my mind as it seems like there was more to it than just simply being power our families wanted," Konomi said.
"Maybe will never know, if anything the answer might not be to our liking anyway. It probably only make the horrors you suffer worse," Shiho reply, her eyes drawn to Konomi's stomach, remembering Konomi told her about the operation she had to remove her ability to have kids, as a way to stick it to her mother who wanted her back, so Konomi could do her duty in a arrange marriage.
The younger Nishizumi follow her cousin's eyes to her own stomach, then spoke. "Don't fret over what I've done to myself. Back at the academy, I see all my students as my family, they make up for this."
"Do you believe your academy will stand after this?" Shiho couldn't help but ask.
Taking a deep breath, Konomi exhale through her nose and then replies. "At this point, it's up in the air. We were hoping to put on a good show to bring in more domestic financial support, rather than rely on a foreign one."
"Your tankers, even Fukushu as much I hate to admit it. Perform up to par, especially for their first match, America I always thought would have a difficult time trying to just jump into Sensha-do, but you've trained them quite well," Shiho praise.
"Is it odd, that I find your praise still uneasy for me to accept," Konomi said with a sad chuckle.
"It comes with being the imposing Shiho Nishizumi."
That made both women chuckle a little, them Konomi spoke with a serious tone. "There is still a part of me that can't forgive you for what you did."
Shiho nodded sadly. "I understand, I lived in fear of my mother for a long time. To the point I did what I was told to appease her, caring little for anyone else. A selfish desire couple with a touch of self-preservation made me a monster."
"Is it because you live in that state of mind, that you came to hate Sensha-do?" Konomi ask.
"Yes, but there was a time when I let go of that, finding a reason to love Sensha-do, if only for a little bit," Shiho said, letting a small smile cross her face.
"Doesn't take a genius to know it was Miho and Maho who were that reason. I may have my reservations about you still, but as your cousin, please listen. They say kids only get parents once in their life, and the same applies to parents. We only get to hold their hands for a while, before we have to let them fly on their own, don't let them leave that nest without the want to return to visit someday," Konomi said with a gentle smile.
Engrossing herself in the words, Shiho felt breathless for a moment. Like all along she always just needed someone to talk her through things, instead of just burdening on alone with the weight. It was hard to swallow the fact, that at this moment Konomi was mentally stronger than Shiho ever was. Though Shiho was learning slowly, that it took others to help achieve victory, whether in life or tankery. Hidemichi had been trying to bring home this lesson ever since Miho went to Chi-Ha-Tan academy, that now Shiho was accepting fully.
"I wonder who the real parent is here," Shiho said, letting herself become light enough to joke.
Konomi let a small chuckle out. "Guess were helping each other. If it's alright, may I speak to Miho, I like to get to know her and apologize for what happened."
"I think that would be a good idea, I too wish to apologize to her, for every-."
Before anything else could be said, a knock came to the door of the press box. Not bothering to wait for a reply, a man step into the room, well dress in a rich grey suit. On the breast of his coat, a Sensha-do Federation badge was hanging on it.
The man bowed first to the two ladies, then rose up to speak. "Good afternoon ladies, my name is Mitsuo Yumoto. I work in the internal affairs department for the Sensha-do Federation."
Both ladies bow back, with Shiho speaking. "Very nice to meet you Mister Yumoto, what may we do for you?"
"Well, this is a little unpleasant business ladies. Sorry to be informal and use first names, but I have to make things clear to both of you. Miss Shiho, you have been summoned to the Federation Headquarters to speak with Director Kodama, Miss Konomi will go as well," Mitsuo said with a straight face.
"Right now?" Shiho question.
"Yes, there are rumors spreading of you two brawling earlier spreading to the public, very distasteful, especially for the Nishizumi family. Director Kodama wants a word with both of you, also Miss Konomi your tanker Fukushu is being detained for her physical altercation with Miss Miho," Mitsuo explain.
That made Konomi bristle. "You're not arresting her?"
"Oh no, a simple need to keep her out of harm's way. Many of the Chi-Ha-Tan team were very unhappy with her, so we simply took steps to insure her safety, as well with the rest of your team," Mitsuo said.
Konomi gave the man a hard look. "What have you done with my team?"
"They are also being detain, as we bring in transport to get your team home as quickly as possible. As you know the situation is a little tense, even though the rest of your team conducted themselves very well, the one action of Miss Fukushu has caused some bad blood," Mitsuo said calmly.
It was a hard truth to swallow, but Konomi did it anyway, then spoke. "What about the after match handshake?"
"For once, were forgoing it. Both teams are beyond exhausted after such a long match, and medical personnel believe it best to get them home for rest, I have some transportation ready so you can go see your team before you leave for Tokyo, though I guess you would like to see Fukushu first," Mitsuo said.
"Thank you, and yes I like to go see Fukushu first," Konomi said with a bow, then turn to Shiho. "I will see you soon cousin."
Shiho could still see there was lingering anger in Konomi towards her, but hopefully it soon dissipate as they both try to slowly rebuild their family. "Yes cousin, I will see you soon."
Mitsuo made way to allow Konomi to leave the room, then close the door to focus in on Shiho. "Miss Nishizumi, there was another matter that has been brought to Federation attention. I wanted to wait till your cousin left before I told you, out of respect."
A feeling of trepidation took over Shiho, who spoke. "And what is the subject of this matter?"
"It is Miss Maho," Mitsuo said.
"What about my oldest daughter?" Shiho said, her face becoming defensive.
"An informant has let us know that she has been paying off her team's medical physician to keep quiet about her illness," Mitsuo inform.
The breath went out of Shiho at that moment. "What are you talking about?"
"Your oldest daughter has been said to be coughing blood up. When my other Federation Internal Affairs agent went to speak to her just now, she confess to everything," Mitsuo said.
"Why…why…why would she do that?" Shiho said aghast.
Mitsuo just shook his head, "I can't say. I believe this is a conversation best had with her on the matter. Right now will get her to one of our state-of-the-art hospitals for treatment."
"I..I…I thank you for that. Does anyone else know about this?" Shiho ask.
The Federation agent just shook his head. "For now, we're trying to keep the situation under wraps. Though you know eventually word will get out."
"I understand, may I have a moment?" Shiho ask.
"Certainly, I'll be outside with a car ready to take you to the airport," Mitsuo said with a bow, then left the room.
Alone now, Shiho took a deep breath, but suddenly began to cry. Her emotions now fully broken from the chains of the past. Her fear for the wellbeing of her daughters was at the forefront now, with Miho bruise and batter from this match and Maho now being revealed to have a sickness. Things were bad, but Shiho had to fix this, fix what had torn them apart.
Drying her eyes, knowing she had appearances to keep for now, Shiho left the room. Wanting to get this talk over with the director, then see her daughters. It might not be easy to just come together like they were so long ago, but Shiho could care less for the struggle she would have to go through to obtain her daughter's trust and love.
That was the wish of this reborn women.
XxxxX
"Commander!" Koume yell in distress, as she watch Maho be escorted away by the Sensha-do Federation Internal Affair agents.
Erika though was calmer, grabbing onto Koume who squirm in her arms, desperate to do something for her friend. Yet there was nothing more these girls could do for their commander, as she had been confronted by the agents about her health.
It was still a shock, when the match ended, Maho had been on her way to go see Miho. Her sole objective was to hold her little sister in her arms, to tell how proud she was of her. Then she was going to tell Miho about her condition, not wanting to hide it from someone who she love so much, Maho wanted no more secrets between them.
Also, she wanted to talk about Panzer Kettō and their family's dark past.
Yet all of that was put on hold, when Maho, Koume, and Erika were leaving the tent they had been using earlier, they were confronted by the agents. They calmly explain that the Kuromorimine tankery physician had admitted that he had been bribed by Maho to keep her condition secret. Maho didn't argue against this, instead admitted to the bribery, and was taken into custody.
At first, Koume argue that Maho would never do that, that she was honorable. Which made Maho give her a small smile and tell her that was the truth, that it was the only way to keep her condition secret. Even with the truth reveal, Koume still argue that Maho had her reasons, that she wasn't doing this for prestige or winning back the Victory Flag for their school.
However, no words were going to change the outcome now. Maho was not put in handcuffs or drag away. She was simply going to be admitted to a hospital to be diagnosis and treated, but the reality of the situation was made clear to both Erika and Koume now.
Maho would be out of the tournament. No longer to lead them into battle, Kuromorimine Girls Academy's proud tankery team would have to win the Victory Flag back without their leader. Without the very girl who had changed for the better, that fought with her own variation of the Nishizumi style. One that look after their team, fought as team, and won as a team.
"Maho…Maho…," Koume said tearfully, now stopping her resistance with Erika, and now hug her.
Erika kept herself compose, while hugging her friend back to comfort her. Wondering now how their team was supposed to go on. Questions pop into Erika's mind over the matter, not just about Sensha-do, but about the very people who be affected by this.
What will Miho think? How will she react? Should I go tell her myself?
What about Miss Shiho? Her own daughter fighting this sickness, while me and Koume said nothing
How is our team supposed to go on without Maho? She's the heart of this team, who is going to lead if not her?
The question came in like a dam breaking and letting the water rush through uncontrablly, making Erika wince mentally trying to find the answers. While doing her best to soothe Koume in her arms with soft whispers. Everything had been going so well for them, that in one instant it seem like it was all over.
"Erika," a voice call out.
Erika turn her head to look at Maho, who was standing between the Federations agents. There was no sadness on the face of the Kuromorimine commander, only a bright smile that seem more natural for her than the once stoic look that always adorned her face.
"Do you remember what I told you that day when you found out about my condition if I was not able to lead the team?" Maho ask.
Quickly Erika dug into her memory banks, then found the answer.
If I can't go on. Know my faith is in you to lead our school to victory
Those were the words that Maho spoke then, telling Erika of her trust in her sub-commander.
Steeling herself, to hold back tears, Erika look Maho in the eyes. "Yes commander. I will fight for your honor and the honor of our school. I'll show the world why we will still follow the Nishizumi style, your style."
"Thank you Erika, Koume, please dry your tears. Erika will need you for the coming battles, as I know Bush-Mädchen platoon has more glory to win in this tournament," Maho said, trying to cheer up her other friend.
Pulling a little back, Koume look at Maho with a tearful smile as she spoke. "Yes, commander. I will honor all you've done for me, all the faith you had in me, and make sure to show the might of my fighting spirit."
Maho nodded, glad to see Koume would be alright going forward. Then turn to the Federation agents to nod in acceptance to follow them off. She has led to a car some distance away, then driven off, with sometime soon the Sensha-do world learning of the eldest Nishizumi daughter's illness as well and her absence from the tournament that would follow.
"Erika, should we go tell Miho?" Koume ask, still hugging Erika.
Giving it some thought, Erika reply. "No, she's been through enough today. I know it sounds cruel, but she will find out eventually. When she does, I hope she can forgive me for not saying anything to her earlier."
"No, not just you. I hope she can forgive us, remember we're a team now, and the team is going to need us to get through this," Koume replied, pulling back to look Erika in the eye, while she dry the last of her tears.
That made Erika smile. "Yes as a team, I like that. Come on, let's go home. Will tell the team about it and go from there."
Koume nodded, then spoke. "Right behind you Er…I mean right behind you commander."
XxxxX
As a motorized cart made its way onto the field, Chiyo Shimada look up to the sky from her passenger seat. The gloomy overcast was gone, with the sun shining down on her face. It was inviting for the headmistress of the Shimada family, as it felt like this was not just shining down on the field only, but also on the very fortunes of the Shimada's family future. All Chiyo had to do was put the final pieces together that would culminate in her plan finally being executed to its fullest.
A sudden ringing on her phone came to her, making her pull it out. It was a text message, which open and read.
-It is done, Miss Maho is in custody and being escorted to a hospital. Miss Shiho and Miss Konomi will also soon be on their way to Tokyo-
There was no contact name, as it was just another of Chiyo's many informants. Her plan had worked to get Shiho and Konomi away from the field, knowing they were most definitely wanting to head off to look after Miho. It was cruel to keep these family members separate from one another, but Chiyo would only do this for today, as she understands wanting to be near loved ones.
While Chiyo was quite proud to have unfoil Maho's little subterfuge about her sickness she try to keep a secret. It was a shock to have learned from a nurse who works at Kuromorimine, who was sleeping with the head physician, who admitted to her the bribe he was taking from Maho to cover it up. Unfortunately for the physician, the said nurse had ties to the Shimada family and quickly inform Chiyo of this.
If anything, Chiyo didn't look at this as some great exploit for her to use, instead, she was disgusted that the Nishizumi family would put their very lives on the line for Sensha-do. If Alice had ever done something like this, Chiyo would drag her from the sport in a second, because she care more for the safety of her daughter than prestige.
Chiyo had a hunch Shiho knew nothing of this, so she took action. Chiyo inform Renta Tsuji with this, as the Head of MEXT, he was responsible for the school carrier's personnel as well. Renta paid the man a visit, making subtle threats that he tell him the truth or he be shame when the news came out publically. The Kuromorimine team physician admitted to it, next Renta made sure the Internal Affairs Department look into this matter quietly, first detaining Maho so she could go to the hospital.
To think I'm doing more as a mother than Shiho is. Honestly, I must still care about Shiho enough to make sure her own daughter stops being so hard-headed for the sake of the Nishizumi family
Chiyo thought, then brought her head up, knowing she had one final act to play that would secure her family's future.
XxxxX
"Well this certainly turn out to be thrilling, as I expected to be," Darjeeling said from the lavish couch she was sitting on, in her office afforded to her as the commander of the St. Gloriana High School level Sensha-do team.
Her friends and teammates, Orange Pekoe, Assam, and Rosehip were all sitting at a table away from her. It was decorated with sweets and cakes, while the girls enjoy the teas that they were named after. All of them had watched the match on the T.V. in its entirety from start to finish. Though their support had been with Oarai, a team they had a practice match before the tournament and thoroughly gain their respect.
Now their rival team was out of the tournament, much to the dismay of the St. Gloriana girls. Yet a new fire had been lit under them, with that fire wanting to meet this Chi-Ha-Tan team on the field, to test the vaunted Tigress Corps. To see how they themselves could match up to Miho Nishizumi who was proving to be a legendary commander.
Unpredictability, unbridle ferocity, tenacious, and tactical brilliance. These were the words that they were associating with Miho, not to mention she was doing it with a team with underpowered tanks, making a case that Japanese tanks of World War Two were not as bad as most pundits always claim they were. Use in the right way, they prove to be a difficult bunch to handle, that had made team after team sweat trying to deal with them.
"Well, I for one can't wait for a chance at the Tigress Corps," Rosehip said, with her usual coy smile on her face.
"We can't be looking that far into the future. Viking Fisheries High is next and their team we cannot overlook," Orange Pekoe said with a scolding look.
"You're not wrong, their clockwork tactics are quite effective," Assam agree while taking a sip from her cup.
Rosehip cock her head in thought, then spoke. "I guess we can take a page out of that Nishizumi girl's book, and be unpredictable as well."
"Miss Darjeeling doesn't need to copy others to win. Her sound tactics will be all we need to win the day for your school," Orange Pekoe said, proud to display her belief in her commander openly.
Darjeeling clear her throat to get the attention of her friends. "The great Charles Darwin said this: It is not the strongest of the species that survives, not the most intelligent that survives. It is the one that is the most adaptable to change."
The word made the girls camp up, as they listen to their commander.
Darjeeling spoke again. "Ladies we are fighting in a new era of Sensha-do. The old way is gone, and it is time to be more flexible on the battlefield while evolving with it. We must change as well with these times if we are to survive and host the Victory Flag."
"You find a way with words again Miss Darjeeling. You are right, one day other foreign tankers might be joining our sport. Even with that punch thrown by the American tanker, I still look forward to what America has to offer," Assam said, then took another silent sip of her tea.
"Ah yea, that girl really has some issues to sort out. I know most people will be angry at her, but I kind of feel bad, good thing that Miss Miho forgave her or we might have had some serious issue's later on," Rosehip commented.
Orange Pekoe nodded in agreement from her seat. "Certainly, she's seems to have a troubled past, which ties in with the Nishizumi family. Makes you wonder what sort of issues are clouding over the famous family."
"Don't ponder too much over that, it's not our place to assume or makes theories on someone else. We must now focus ourselves on the task at hand, to win and advance to the Semi-Final," Darjeeling said, lowering her porcelain tea cup to her saucer, then look over to her teammates sitting at the table, her eyes fill with deep resolve.
"Understood Miss Darjeeling, we will see this through to the end, to raise the Victory Flag and bring glory to St. Gloriana that has eluded us so long," Assam said, her mind already relishing in the want to be in the thick of the battle, and prove she was the best gunner in Japan.
"You got my elite Crusaders, will clear a path for you, Miss Darjeeling, wherever you need us," Rosehip said with confidence.
"I'll load as fast as you need, will prove the might of your Mk 4 Churchill that can stand tall with the best tanks," Orange Pekoe added in.
"I'm glad to hear your passion ladies. For we are the team that will finally bring St. Gloriana what has so long eluded us," Darjeeling said with a pleasant smile on her face.
"Yes my lady," her teammates said back, their voices as one, like their belief.
"Very good, now let us get to training," Darjeeling order, while placing her tea cup and saucer down.
Her teammates bow to her, then made their way out of the room, with Darjeeling in tow. As they were about to exit, Darjeeling reach out to touch Orange Pekoe's shoulder making her stop, as the others continue on and left them alone.
"I almost forgot, did Miss Rukuriri and Miss Nilgiri complete the little mission I sent them out on?" Darjeeling ask.
"Yes, Miss Darjeeling. They secure our new tanks for the coming battle, which will definitely shock the Sensha-do world. It was quite the bold move to acquire them when our team hasn't used new tanks in five years," Orange Pekoe said.
Brushing a little strand of hair from her friends face, Darjeeling spoke. "As I said before, the old way is gone. We must become adaptable to the ever-changing battlefield if we are to obtain our goal."
With a proud smile on her face, with equal pride to serve under such a fine commander, Orange Pekoe reply. "Yes my lady, we will show the might of St. Gloriana that is facing this new era head-on."
XxxxX
A soft groan fill the room of Pravda's Sensha-do commander aboard the school carrier Kiev. The groan belong to Katyusha, as she had finally woken up from her nap, much to her dismay. As she was quite enjoying a nice dream, a dream of waving the victory flag once more for her glorious school. Adding to her legend as the great commander who upended the Kuromorimine win streak, though this time no one questioned her victory was a fluke like last year.
Though she was awake, Katyusha didn't want to rise up, as the feel of the soft lap she was resting on was too good. All she wanted to do was lay here all day, but the job of being a commander called to her. Regretfully she rose up, stretching her arms out as a yawn escape her lips.
"Did you sleep well, Miss Katyusha?" Nonna, the one who was being the lap pillow said.
Turning her head to the left, Katyusha gave Nonna a annoyed look. "Is that even a question."
That made Nonna let out a small smile. "Sorry, I thought to ask after your wellbeing."
"You've been doing that since the day we met," Katyusha said, then lifted herself off the couch, then turn to look at her second in command.
"Of course, as I said back then, you are very special. Your tactical genius is something that put our school on the right path," Nonna said, rising from her seat to look down on her pint-size commander.
"Don't flatter me, the great Katyusha needs not to be reminded of her abilities," Katyusha said, while turning her head away with her hands on her hip.
"I would never heap flattery on you, I only speak truths here," Nonna said back, keeping a neutral face, while inwardly enjoying how cute her commander look when she pouted.
"Hm, whatever makes you feel better. How long was I asleep?" Katyusha ask.
"Four hours I believe," Nonna said nonchalantly.
That made Katyusha flinch, with a look of discontent crossing her face. "I told you no more than a thirty-minute nap. I wanted to watch that Miho girl's match. Why didn't you wake me?"
Many who were unfortunate enough to get on the bad side of Katyusha would cower and beg forgiveness at this point. Knowing she was liable to send you to the Gulag, which was a code word for extra homework in a classroom without windows. Among other punishments that made everyone shiver at night, and it wasn't from their school carrier being in colder climates most of the time.
Yet Nonna never feared these punishments, not because of her status as a sub commander, but because she knew Katyusha had an angry streak because of her experience as a first year at Pravda where she was bullied a lot. Katyusha try to shoulder things on her own for a long time, but Nonna made sure to carry her commander's burden as well, leading to an odd, but endearing friendship, allowing Nonna to be the voice of reason for her commander.
"Miss Katyusha, your rest was needed," Nonna said.
"My need to analyze my opponents takes priority, the great Katyusha can't win by just believing in our tanks alone," Katyusha argue back.
"How can you analyze when you were up till the crack of dawn slaving over paperwork," Nonna argue back, her voice becoming cold like a Russian winter.
The sudden change of attitude made Katyusha shrink a little, while she fiddled with her hands like a child who was being scolded by their mother. "I needed to make sure our ammo and spare part shipments were on time. Not to mention the new tanks we purchase being sigh off to me, there was a lot to get done."
"That is why you have Comrade Klara and me," Nonna said, not backing down.
"No, a commander must do this work, so that her team can focus on training and winning. A commander never runs from her responsibilities large or small, she takes care of them for her team," Katyusha said back.
Nonna smiled at how resolute Katyusha was in her role of being a commander. Many who didn't know her work ethic, just assume she was a merciless commander, who just demanded her team to perform or they be punished. Yet in reality, Katyusha work harder than anyone on the team, to ensure everything they needed was provided. If there was those who struggle, she would rectify them not by simply yelling at them to do better, but by asking them to get up and try again, to never fear failure.
"I admire your commitment to our team Miss Katyusha, but you are still a growing girl. Your beauty sleep is important for the future," Nonna said, trying to lighten the moment.
"Don't worry about that, Katyusha will grow to be taller than you someday. Then I'll be carrying you on my shoulders," the small blonde girl boasted.
Forgive me, Miss Katyusha, I hope that day never comes, you're perfect the way you are
Nonna thought, as she was about to reply, but was interrupted by a soft knock on the door to the office. Then followed by Klara, the other sub commander of their school came in. She came in carrying a plate of Beef Stroganoff with rice and vegetables, as she knew Katyusha to be hungry after her nap.
"Miss Katyusha, I've brought your meal for you," Klara said with a happy tone since she had the honor of cooking this herself.
A look of annoyance crossed Katyusha's face. "Klara! Where were you? You and Nonna were both supposed to sing me to sleep."
"Sorry, Comrade Nonna wanted me to make sure other duties were completed while you slept. Next time I will be here front and center for you," Klara reply with a sheepish smile.
"Be grateful the great Katyusha is so forgiving, did you make enough for all of us?" Katyusha ask.
"Certainly, I've also finished recording the Oarai versus Chi-Ha-Tan match," Klara reply happily.
"Who won?" Katyusha question.
"Chi-Ha-Tan won," Klara reply.
"Good, very good. We get to meet this Miho girl on the battlefield once again, I'll make sure to beat her and that Tigress Corps into the ground. Then no one will doubt my victory against her, will wipe her from this tournament like the Battles of Khalkhin Gol," Katyusha boasted, her hunger for victory all across her face.
Both Nonna and Klara match their commander's boast as they spoke as one. "It will be done, Miss Katyusha."
"Good, now both of you come eat with me, we also have much paperwork and training schedules to go over," Katyusha said, then began to leave the room, with Nonna and Klara happily in tow, ready for the battles ahead of them. Yet happier to sit down with one another and enjoy the peace that be afforded to them now.
XxxxX
"Well girl, you did well out there," Ellie said, touching the side of her M36B2.
She along with the rest of the Wolverton girls had been brought to a hanger that house their defeated tanks. They had thought they would stay with the Oarai girls for the after-game handshakes, but instead tow trucks had brought them to a separate hanger, where now all of them were waiting around wondering what was going to happen.
They knew they had lost this match to Chi-Ha-Tan, by just mere seconds. For their first ever match for the Wolverton girls they had shown they could stand tall in Sensha-do, but the sting of defeat was with them. They had wanted to win and fight alongside Oarai more, even if they were still new teammates, they had worked well together with such a short amount of time training with one another, but now that was done and they were going home.
"Hey chica," Morena said, coming up to Ellie's side with her tanker helmet under her arm.
"Morena, you alright?" Ellie ask her close friend.
"A couple of bruises, that's about it," Morena said with shrug.
"What about a bruised ego?" Ellie teased.
Morena gave her a annoyed look, then began to chuckle, which made Ellie chuckle as well.
As their chuckle down, Morena spoke. "Still not over that long shot that Chi-Ha-Tan commander made."
"Tell me about it, I got a front row seat to her taking on all four of us and seem not to break a sweat all while doing it. It was unreal, a Tiger 1 is not supposed to move like that," Ellie said, still replaying that final battle in her mind.
"You're not wrong," Morena said, then a look of sadness cross her face. "Did you hear what Fukushu did?"
Clinching her fist, Ellie didn't respond right away. She had heard what had happened from Fukushu's crew, after their tank commander was rescued by Miho from the river. The whole story was revealed to her, of Fukushu punching the Chi-Ha-Tan commander. It was a shock for Ellie, as she never thought Fukushu could do such a thing.
Ellie wanted to get answers out of Fukushu herself, but her friend had been taken away by Federation security guards to be detain for her safety, or what they had communicated to them. It anger Ellie that she couldn't see Fukushu, knowing the poor girl had to be alone and scared, while separated from her team. Yet nothing could be done now, with Jasmine ordering her girls to stand down, so not to cause any more problems for their academy.
"Why would Fukushu do that?" Ellie said, turning to Morena.
"Maybe we didn't know her as well as we thought," was all Morena said, looking at the ground.
"Whatever the case, she is still part of this team. When she gets back to us, will welcome her back with open arms," Ellie said, her voice resolute in her boast.
Morena though didn't have the same resolve as Ellie. "I'm sorry, but I could care less if she comes back or not."
That was a shock for Ellie who turn and grip Morena's shoulders. "What the hell are you talking about?! She's your friend!"
"Think of the big picture here Ellie," Morena said, with a look of annoyance.
"Enlighten me," Ellie said back, wanting to know what she was missing.
"Think about it, the whole Sensha-do world saw her punching the enemy commander. She may get a lot of blame for it, but her actions reflect on all of us. In one dumb action, she just hurt our academies reputation, that we had nothing to do with," Morena explain.
"We…wel…well ok, you got a point. Yet we're a team, we stick together right? You're just going to abandon her over something like this," Ellie fought back.
"I love being a tanker, my family loves Sensha-do too. I'm getting a good education at our academy, which is now in peril because of Fukushu. What she did was selfish, she didn't care about the team, she only care about herself," Morena said back, with no hesitation in her eyes.
That made Ellie pull back away from her friend. "You don't mean that."
"She does, and I feel the same way," a voice call out to them.
Both girls turn their heads to take in the sight of their leader Jasmine Fitzgerald. She came to them with an angry look on her face, which was matched by others. As her M4 Sherman crew, along with Morena's and Ellie's crews, were now gathered all around their remaining tank commanders.
Ellie took in their silent angry faces, but noticed Fukushu's own crew was standing off to the side next to their M4A3E8 that had been airlifted out of the river. They seem to be more reserved than anything, most likely trying to deal with their own emotions about their tank commander's action. Ellie knew they had had a rough go of it when Fukushu took command, but they had improved together, forming a bond a true tank crew should have. Now they seem lost without said commander, while also trying to comprehend what Fukushu had done.
Turning her attention back to Jasmine, Ellie spoke. "Jasmine, please, Fukushu has always looked up to you. How can you turn your back on her now?"
"She turn her back on us by her actions. I knew she had some sort of problems with her Japanese family, but she allow it to get to a point of no return. My father put his reputation on the line by having us in this match, which goes double for Miss Konomi. Yet Fukushu could care less about it and did something that damages not just our academy, but also our nation," Jasmine said hotly.
"I'm sure we can make amends" Ellie try to argue.
"Es demasiado tarde para eso," Morena said.
Ellie turn to her friend hotly. "It's never too late. If you and the rest of the girls want to give up on Fukushu, fine, be my guest. Yet I won't give up on her."
"Do what you want, but she is going to be suspended anyway, I talk to my father about it already," Jasmine said, her arms cross.
"Wha…you can't be serious?" Ellie said back, in complete shock now.
"I am serious, chances are we might not have an academy to go home to if she is still with us. Better to cut her loose now, it may be cruel, but we have to think of the whole team here," Jasmine said, not backing down.
"I can't believe you, who are you right now?" Ellie said aghast.
"I'm the leader, I have to look out for everyone here, now fall in. We're going home," Jasmine ordered.
Her orders were obeyed, with the Morena and the rest of the crews moving to secure their tanks to be loaded on tow trucks again and then loaded onto a train. Then they be transported to port to be finally loaded on a ship set for America. There be no tearful farewell for them, but the Wolverton girls would be ok with that, as they had a lot of work to do to bring their reputation back up, all undone by someone who they once respected.
Watching her teammates move off, Ellie spoke softly to herself. "The pack is stronger together eh? What a joke," then she climb her tank with her crew, to make it ready for home.
XxxxX
The room was cold, making Fukushu shiver a bit, while rubbing her shoulders to keep warm. Currently, she was in a press box, which was serving as her place to be detained as the security guards told her. It was a terrible feeling to be all alone, not knowing what was going to happen. Though it didn't take a genius to guess that she was in here because she assaulted her half-sister.
Even after that, Miho forgave her, then said she still consider her family. The unwavering want to be family by Miho had broken Fukushu's mind. Since the start of this journey, she had wanted to destroy the Nishizumi family, tear them down, and avenge Konomi's humiliation. Yet now, Fukushu didn't know what she wanted, or even scarier, who she was.
A reset button had been pressed on her, now trying to figure out what was her purpose. With her path to revenge taken away, what did she have left? The question was playing in her mind since they brought her here, among other ones. Filled her mind till it made her wince as the internal struggle was taking over her.
Suddenly a knock on the door got Fukushu's attention, the door opening with Konomi herself walking in. Instantly the young Nishizumi shot out of her chair, but hesitated. The hesitation was because there was an ugly bruise on Konomi's face that was a tell tell sign that she had been punched. Yet Konomi just walk in with a wide smile at her surrogate daughter, acting like everything was alright.
Fukushu though didn't run to her, feeling deep shame for her actions still. She simply stare at the ground, unable to bring her eyes up. So many times Konomi told her to not focus on the need for revenge when it came to this match, but Fukushu had ignored all of that, letting her anger lead her to do what she did to Miho.
"I'm so…sor…sorry," was all Fukushu could muster to say.
Konomi came forward now, while leaning down a bit to take in the sight of her surrogate daughter's eyes. "No, I'm sorry."
That made Fukushu raise her head to look at Konomi directly. "What are talking about?"
Before she reply, Konomi took a knee in front of Fukushu, then spoke. "I'm sorry for not understanding the pain inside of you."
"It wasn't something I wanted you to know about," Fukushu reply, her eyes averted away.
"Why?"
"I worried if I did tell you, that you would send me back to my father, thinking I wasn't ready to be in Sensha-do," Fukushu explain.
Konomi nodded. "I guess I can see why you think like that. In the end, we really didn't understand each other, even with the time we've been spending together."
That made Fukushu become frantic. "No, no, no, it's just me. I've should have told you, but I bottle it up, making me blind with anger, not just for your, but for my father. I don't know the details, but I know it was Shiho who made him hate the sport. For me, I just wanted to take her down and help bring the Nishizumi respect once again, while showing dad Sensha-do can be fun."
"Your reason is sound, though the situation is more complex than we could imagine. Shiho isn't the reason I believe your father hates Sensha-do, I think there's more to it," Konomi said with sad sigh.
"Maybe, but I still will always see Shiho as a monster for what she's done to you," Fukushu said, as that was something still she wouldn't let go.
"Heh, if anything I'm the real monster here," Konomi said in a sad tone.
Fukushu let a look of disbelief cross her face, then lean forward with both hands on Konomi's shoulders. "What are you talking about? You're no monster."
"Oh, but I am. In a time long ago, my own mother used me, because she wanted power," Konomi said, making sure to stare into Fukushu's eyes.
"What are you talking about?" Fukushu said, hanging onto every word.
"I told you about Panzer Kettō, my part in it. Yet, even if Shiho did humiliate me, she wasn't the one who threw me out on the streets. That was my own mother who did that, because I didn't live up to expectations, I was only a tool in her eyes, never seen as her daughter truly," Konomi said, hoping to get her point across.
"I remember, it was terrible. Yet, what are you trying to get at?" Fukushu ask.
"What I'm getting at, is that I'm no better than my mother," Konomi confesses.
"You're wrong, you are nothing like that," Fukushu argue.
"No, I'm just like that, I just fool myself into thinking I wasn't. Think about it Fukushu, did we really ever spend quality time together? Were we more focused on Sensha-do, than becoming family?" Konomi ask.
"I..no…no….," Fukushu try to argue, but she was seeing the truth in Konomi's words.
They had spent so much time together, but it was mostly spent training. Fukushu was even made to stay in the dorm rooms with the other students, as a way for Konomi to get Fukushu acclimated to her classmates, and not make it seem like she had favoritism. Every so often, Konomi would take her out to eat together, but again that was rare. As Konomi was always busy with other tasks that needed doing for their young academy.
"Are…are…are you saying we don't have a bond?" Fukushu said, the accusation in her voice.
"We do, just one that I didn't work harder to bring closer together. I just focus on this path for revenge, that in the end, I was no better than my own mother…I…I…I…I saw you as a tool, not my family," Konomi profess, feeling her heart break saying the truth she had denied for so long.
"You saw me as a tool?" Fukushu ask, feeling like she had been gut punched.
"Yes, I know I was constantly saying to forget revenge and win this match. However I was being a hypocrite in that regard, that's why I'm sorry, I'm so sorry for not being the mother you needed," Konomi said feeling tears flow from her eyes.
There was nothing but silence from Fukushu for a moment, then she spoke in a low tone. "You are still my mother."
Letting out a breath of relief with tears still, Konomi spoke. "Thank you Fukushu."
The young Nishizumi nodded, then spoke. "Can we go home? I want to see the other girls and apologize for what I've done."
Now the next unpleasant part was needed to be said. "I can't take you home right now."
"Why?" Fukushu said in shocked voice.
"Mister Fitzgerald has had to suspend you from the academy for your actions, I just got off the phone with him. I try to argue against it, but his mind is made up," Konomi said sadly.
"What does that mean for me? I'm not going to be able to go back to Wolverton?" Fukushu said with tears flowing from her eyes.
"Only, for now, the suspicion can be uplifted. I have to go meet with the Sensha-do Federation director, hopefully, I can talk down any punishment and we can go from there," Konomi encourage.
"Ok, can I at least say goodbye to my crew and friends?" Fukushu ask.
Konomi just shook her head. "I'm sorry, but they're already boarding for home. Yet I'll make sure to let them know. In the meantime, you will stay in Japan till things get sorted."
"Will I stay with you?" Fukushu said, not wanting to be separated from her surrogate mother.
"No, but I've got a place in mind. I contacted the Akiyama's, you remember, Yukari parents. They are more than willing to take you in for a little while," Konomi explain.
"Will they be alright with me? Especially after what happened?" Fukushu couldn't help but ask, knowing they must have seen what she had done.
"They are, remember you spent the night with Yukari. They both know you are a sweet girl, and that mistakes can be forgiven," Konomi said with a warm smile.
"Alright, I will stay with them," Fukushu said, then wrap her arms around Konomi as she spoke again. "I love you."
Konomi relish in the touch of her surrogate daughter, who going forward she would put aside everything for her. To raise her to laugh and love, not be focused on Sensha-do. The road to that point wouldn't be easy, but one that they needed to travel hand in hand, if they both wanted to reach the bright future they both wanted.
"I love you too, and remember. I won't abandon you," Konomi said, pulling back, then touch her foreheads to Fukushu's. "I need you."
"I need you," Fukushu said with happy tears.
"Then will get through this together," Konomi said, feeling the future would be brighter for them going forward.
"Alright, but can I ask something?" Fukushu said.
Pulling back a bit, Konomi spoke. "Sure go ahead."
"How did you get that bruise on your eye?" Fukushu had to ask.
Touching her bruise with small smile, Konomi spok. "Oh, me and Shiho figure things out."
"What!?" Fukushu said in surprise, making Konomi chuckle, glad she still had Fukushu at her side, with hopefully things would be better going forward, with the need for vengeance gone, replace by the need to make things right.
XxxxX
"Mmm," Miho groan, as she open her right eye up.
She could tell she was being held by someone, so she turn to look up at Nomi who was holding Miho in her lap. They were currently on a large flatbed of a tow truck that was carrying the batter Tiger 1. It was driving down a dirt road with the open countryside setting surrounding them. Miho turn to see the rest of her crew sitting on the flatbed as well, resting against one another.
"Nomi, where are we? Where is Yukari and her crew?" Miho ask.
"Oh, your awake thank goodness Miho," Nomi said happily. "Were heading to the starting point for our team. Miss Akiyama and her crew are on their way back to their team right now, to load up and head for home."
"Wait, what about the after-match handshakes and bow?" Miho ask, knowing it was important to show respect, as it was part of her Sensha-do style to do so, while it was always a tradition in the sport.
"It seems the Federation referees were advised to let both teams forgo it and get home to rest, kind of disappointing, I wanted to meet the rest of the Oarai girls," Nomi explain.
A look of understanding cross her face, then Miho spoke. "What about their American Allies? What about Fukushu?"
Nomi's face contorted a bit. "I ask a Federation Referee who came to check on you, but they said that Fukushu and her team are leaving back to America at the moment."
"So soon?" Miho ask, as she wanted to talk with Fukushu once more.
"I ask the same thing, but they just said not to worry about it. Though I get the feeling they're hiding something," Nomi said with a shake of the head.
"That's not good, I was hoping to talk with the Americans. They fought very well for their first match," Miho said, feeling dejected she couldn't see her half-sister again.
"I understand, they were magnificent today. It sucks that they are leaving, but I'm sure will see them again one day," Nomi said with an encouraging voice.
Miho nodded to her, then went silent. Her thoughts turn to Fukushu, wondering what she was going through at the moment. There would obviously be discipline handed out for what she had done, but Miho wanted to be there to defend her. Yet if she was leaving for America, that would have to be put on hold, as much as it pain Miho. She felt like she had gotten through to her half-sister, made her see what she was doing wasn't right.
I did all I could, one day will speak again. The real challenge is talking with my mother, she needs to tell me about my grandmother and about Nakano
The thought past Miho's mind, feeling like her long journey so far, was only going to get longer from here on out. Yet she was more than ready to meet the challenge, because she had a tankery family behind her, with Maho as well, and hopefully soon, she have her mother at her side. That was the wish she had, but instead praying for it to happen, Miho would make it happen by her own hands and will.
Soon enough, the tow truck came around a bend in the row, over the rolling grassland. Miho was greeted to a most welcome sight, with it being the starting area for the Chi-Ha-Tan tanks at the start of the match. Their tank force was all neatly line up, the Type 97 Shinioto's, Type 5 Na-To, M4A3E2 Sherman Jumbo, Type 4 Chi-To, Type 3 Ho-Ni 3's, Type 4 Ke-Nu, and lastly the Type 1 Chi-He's. All it was missing was Miho Tiger 1, then they are complete.
Standing around the tanks was their crews, but not just the ones who had fought in the battle, also the now no longer suspended members. They were mass together, celebrating with one another with unbridle happiness. With the first years being the toast of the party, as they had taken on the challenge of beating a worthy foe who was more than a match for them. Yet they never back down from it, they only steel their resolve and belief, training to be the best they could be, for they wanted to bring their tankery family back together more than anyone.
Miho smile, with her lip quivering, as she was near tears seeing her tankery family so happy. Winning a match was great, but nothing compared to seeing them jumping up and down, hugging and congratulating one another. It was a sight that Miho could never get tired of seeing and hoped for more in the future.
As the two truck came closer, the Chi-Ha-Tan members stop celebrating, as they saw their commanders Tiger 1 being brought in. Quickly they charge the moving tow truck, making Miho fearful of how dangerous that was, but then again that was just like them. Soon the tow truck came to a stop, as the driver was mindful of the girls.
Soon the entire team was crowded around the side of the flatbed. Tank commanders, gunners, loaders, drivers, bow gunners, every one of them was jumping up and down. For they cheer their commander who had done the impossible once again, fighting with the spirit that had been built into the new era of Chi-Ha-Tan tankery.
A sea of hands reach up for Miho and her crew, wanting to help their tankery sisters down from the flatbed. As always, Miho order her crew off first, to which they obey. Moteki was helped down gingerly, while being mindful of her ankle that was injured. Next Watabe, Nene, and then Nomi, were each subjected to hugs, congratulations, and then fussing over to make sure they were alright.
Miho who was last to step off, wasn't simply allowed to be brought down. Two first-year crew members, who Miho remember as Shioko and Nanami, who fought in the Type 5 Na-To, lifted Miho up onto both of their shoulders to carry her through the crowd. A deep blush came over Miho by the sudden sensation of being carried through the sea of her teammates, but relish in it, seeing their happy faces as they reach out hands to her.
"Great job commander!"
"Four on one was just another day at the office for you!"
"You move like a real tigress out there!"
"We never doubted you for a second!"
"We won because of you commander!"
"You're the best in Japan!"
"You're the best in the world!"
"We're going to raise the Victory Flag!"
Then the voices came together as one. "Miho! Miho! Miho! Miho! Miho! Miho! Miho! Miho! Miho! Miho! Miho! Miho! Miho! Miho! Miho! Miho! Miho! Miho! Miho! Miho! Miho! Miho! Miho!"
Sitting on top of Shioko and Nanami shoulders, Miho had to take a deep breath to calm herself. Hearing the voices of her team, which were praising her was a lot to take in. They really believe in her, they cherish her, and they follow her anywhere. Miho didn't think the team could keep surprising her with their belief in her, but they somehow always found a way to do that.
Miho decided to give back to her team in a small way, as she reach her hand out to grasp the random hands of her team as she pass by, where she would call out the name of the girl she touch. Suspended or not suspended member, she praise everyone whose hand she could grab, knowing all of them had played their part in this win. As always all of them won together, leaving no one out, that was the team that had been built under her.
As they near the end of the mob, Miho saw a line of her close friends and tank commanders. Nishi, Tamada, Hosomi, Ikeda, Nishihara, Hamada, Kubota, Nagura, Maita, and Fukuda were waiting. They all wore extremely happy faces seeing Miho, who was set down by the first years while everyone else held back, giving them space.
Fukuda of all people broke ranks, coming forward, Miho lean down to hug the small first year who wrap her arms around her neck. This was followed by the rest of them, coming in to group hug Miho like no other, glad she was safe, and back with their team. Having seen her get punched had weighed on their hearts, but now they felt at ease seeing her smiling and laughing with them.
Then they broke apart somewhat to allow Miho to breathe, with Nishi being the first to speak. "Great job Miho, you never seem to not want to wow us."
"Eh, sorry, don't mean to," Miho said scratching her cheek in embarrassment.
"Oh, that bruise on your eye looks bad," Hamada said, coming up to look it over with concern.
"That damn American tanker had to go and punch you, makes it worse you save her life and that's how she repays," Nagura said, her face contorting into anger.
"I know, please forgive her. She's going through a lot, like the rest of my family," Miho said, knowing her team had every right to be mad, but hoping they could forgo it.
"Whatever the case, we're glad your back with us, with a third win in a row to boot," Kubota said with a boast.
"Yea!" the team roared behind them, proud of what their club had accomplished up to this point.
"Also, you got to teach me that swimming technique sometime commander, you got some serious swimming skills," Nishihara joke coming over to take one of Miho's hands.
"Oh, it's just a little something I learn from what Navy Seals use in America," Miho reply.
Nishihara nodded. "Well I look forward to your swimming lesson."
"Great, this isn't going to turn into another insane fitness regime for us," Hosomi said, with a mock look of concern on her face.
"Don't act like you don't need it, you've been sitting around eating pork buns and reading magazines when we were supposed to be training," Ikeda said with a shake of the head.
"Ikeda, you rat!" Hosomi complain.
"So you like skipping, do you? Ladies I believe Hosomi is in need of some help with her fitness, what do you say?" Nishi said with a wide smirk.
The girls happily tease loudly about putting Hosomi through the wringer when they got home, making the twin bun vice commander grimace and complain, making the team chuckle together.
"Maita, I heard you were the one to finally get the tank kill to win the match," Miho said, focusing on the 2nd year.
"On, yes. It was nothing really, just doing my job for the team," Maita said, blushing at her commander praising her.
"Yeah right it was nothing!" Nakahara yell from the group.
"Should have heard her reckless plan commander, she's taking after you," Shibata teased.
"We do it all over again though, to show the might of our claws," Miyata boasted, adding her voice to Tozen companies members.
That made Maita blush more, causing the team to chuckle at her.
Miho, once she calm down, came up to Maita to place a hand on her shoulder. "Maita, I knew you were the right person for the operator job. As well I knew your leadership skills would come out, you care for the girls of this team. You prove what I've always known about you."
Maita just absorb the words, as her love and respect for her commander grew. She had before this match, just been one of the rank and file, with a secret want to prove she had the skills to be a leader too. Miho had given her that chance, not just because she was a 2nd year, but because she believe in her. There was no greater feeling in the world right now for Maita than to have earned that from her commander.
Stepping back, Maita bow to Miho. "Thank you for all you've done. For all your belief in me and I can't wait to fight side by side again."
"Me too," Miho said, then bow back.
After raising herself up, Miho was greeted by the last member, with her heart pounding hard. "Tamada."
Tamada walk up, her smile warm and inviting. She came up to stand toe to toe with Miho, looking down a bit at her since she was a little taller. They stare at one another, drinking in the sight of each other, as if it felt like years since they had been together, when it had only been hours. Yet when the passion as lovers burns as bright as theirs, separation could have that effect.
"Miho," Tamada said quietly, letting all the passion in her voice out with just her lover's name, then brought Miho into a hug.
Pressing the side of her face into Tamada's chest, Miho let out a sigh of relief, as if this one act made everything better. By just being near Tamada, soak away the internal pain she was going through, because her lover always did all she could to help, to not let Miho shoulder it alone. Tamada had been her consistent reminder that this was where she belong, and more importantly in her arms.
"You just can't fight a match without being reckless, huh?" Tamada said, while stroking Miho's hair softly.
"Maybe you're to blame," Miho teased, nuzzling closer.
That made Tamada chuckle, then spoke. "Don't play the blame game with me."
Miho smile then pull back to take in Tamada's face. Her eye was drawn to her lover's lips, with a quiet rage in her wanting to kiss Tamada, but knew that wouldn't be professional to do in front of the whole team right now. Tamada seem to understand Miho's look of what she wanted, with a little part of her wanting to forgo any properness and do it.
"Ladies attention," a voice call out to the Chi-Ha-Tan group making them turn around to see Federation Medical personnel coming up to them.
"Oh, yes what can we do for you?" Miho said, pulling out of Tamada's hug regretfully.
"Miss Nishizumi, you are to come with us. We're taking you to a hospital to be checked over," the female medic said.
"What? Why? She can get attention back on the Akagi," Hosomi said, stepping in front of Tamada and Miho.
"Young lady, this isn't up for discussion. Miss Nishizumi, come with us now," the female medic ordered, with her other members coming up behind her.
"No, you and your Federation have taken so much from us already. You punish us, bring in those foreign tankers, now you want to take our commander," Ikeda also said, coming up to stand in front as well.
"You will not take that tone with us," another medic said.
"We will, our commander stays with us," Nishi said, breaking from her usual calm demeanor, as she too didn't want Miho going anywhere.
Suddenly all the Chi-Ha-Tan members voice their displeasure, coming up to place themselves before the medics and Miho. Creating a human wall, as they had had enough of the Federation who had seemed in their minds, try to do everything they could to make them lose. A rift had been caused by the actions of the Federation, which was being felt not just here, but in some parts of Japan as well.
Miho try to calm her team down, but Tamada just gave her a look that said there was no point. Her team wanted her to come home, back to their carrier, and not be taken to some hospital to be gone for who knows how long. Ikeda had already gone through that, to which they definitely didn't want Miho away from them.
The Federation Medics became somewhat agitated by the Chi-Ha-Tan girls, as they made threats of more punishment, to which the Chi-Ha-Tan girls didn't care for. Threatening to make the situation spiral out of control.
"That's enough!" an elegant voice yell over the back and forth, causing everyone to turn their eyes.
All of them took in the sight of Chiyo Shimada wearing her 19th-century design business dress, looking radiant to all eyes. She was just stepping off a motor cart, then walk over to the two sides, placing herself in front of the Chi-Ha-Tan girls, facing the Federation Medics.
Little did all of them know, was a Federation drone was overlooking the situation, recording what was about to happen.
With a coy smile, Chiyo spoke. "Is this how the Sensha-do Federation conducts itself?"
"Miss Shimada, we ar-," one of the medics try to argue.
"You justly punish this team, but then bring in foreign tankers to stack the odds against them to push your own narrative," Chiyo snap.
"We didn't make that decision," the medic said back.
Chiyo shook her head. "So you're blaming the head director then, for what has happened to one of Sensha-do's top commanders."
"I didn't sa-," the medic try to argue.
"And now you want to drag her from her team, have you no heart," Chiyo said, her eyes becoming hard as they lock into the medic.
"Were only doing what is best for her," the medic said, her voice becoming faint as she was losing her will to fight back.
"You're only trying to fix your boss's mistake, trying to cover up this outright force fight these girls were placed in," Chiyo said.
The medic seem to lose the will to argue, knowing she was arguing against one of Sensha-do's most notable figures and was losing.
"So will you allow Miss Nishizumi to leave with her team?" Chiyo said hotly, her eyes seeming to broker no more arguing.
"Yes, Miss Shimada," the medic said, looking quite defeated as she left.
With the medics gone, the Chi-Ha-Tan girls cheer for Chiyo, who turn around a smile at the girls. She approach the group and was smothered with thanks and praise from them, which she took in happily. The group then broke apart, letting her enter, leaving a walkway all the way to Miho, with Tamada at her side.
As she approach, Miho bowed to Chiyo with the rest of the team following suit, then rose her head to speak. "Thank you Miss Shimada, I'm sorry for causing you trouble like that."
Chiyo chuckle gracefully, then spoke. "Think nothing of it. I was only doing what I felt was right, I was already coming down here to congratulate you on a splendid victory."
"I'm honored to be congratulated by you," Miho said back with a tired smile.
Chiyo nodded, then came closer to touch Miho's left side of her face. "I'm so sorry this happen to you. I'm sure you don't know this, but your mother and I are friends."
"Really, she never told me," Miho said back with a sidelong look.
"Well, more accurately we are rivals, our two houses' Sensha-do style are well known to all of Japan," Chiyo said, dropping the hand that was touching Miho's face.
"Oh, I know of your house's great deeds in Sensha-do, you have a long cherish history in the sport," Miho said.
Chiyo nodded to Miho. "That is well said. As I know your family's deeds as well, but you seem to favor a style all of your own. I admire that greatly, for you are one of Sensha-do's finest commanders."
"Thank you, it's again a great honor to receive your praise," Miho said, getting a little flustered by all the adoration being dumped on her.
Chiyo chuckled, as she was being greeted to the fun of seeing how cute Miho got when she was flustered. "Well, I best let you be off. Great job today ladies, you've shown the true spirit of Sensha-do this day, take this victory as you're stepping stone to reach your dreams!"
"Yea!" the Chi-Ha-Tan girls cheer loudly.
Well, that work out well, thanks girls, you play your role quite nicely, and I got a chance to see this Miho up close as well. Too bad she had to be born into the Nishizumi family, but that's just the unfairness of life
Chiyo thought, then walk off as the Chi-Ha-Tan girls began to make their way to their transports that would take them to their train and head for home.
XxxxX
"What do you think we should do?" Yuzu ask her student council president.
Anzu didn't answer right away. Her eyes look down the rows of seats aboard the train that was currently taking them and their tanks back to port. Then to be boarded on the Zuikaku school carrier, then it would be back out to sea, back to normal days of being just students till the school year ended. Yet for Anzu, there was more to that, because when this school year ended, there would be no more school for her juniors to come home to.
As MEXT was shutting down their carrier for next year. Now it was definitely something that was happening after losing to Chi-Ha-Tan. It had been a shock to learn they lost by only mere seconds. Yet the reality was they lost, they had lost to a team who just wanted it more in the end. There was nothing to do but accept it and move on, but now the real challenge began.
Momo who was sitting in a chair next to Anzu was still crying softly, as she couldn't handle knowing what was going to happen. She wanted to win so badly, to keep climbing, with every step pulling them closer to saving their school. Now that was over with them having to pick up the pieces.
Even with the loss, the Oarai girls were in good spirits. Sure they had lost a nail-biter, but they were proud of what they had done to this point. Most of them never thought they ever do tankery in their life, but yet here they were. A group of oddballs who had shown the world that you could win with heart, determination, and with a single belief in each other, even if they were rookies. There was already talk of next year taking the championship.
Yet that next year wasn't going to happen.
Letting out a sad sigh, Anzu spoke. "We won't say anything now, let them rest. They gave us all we could ask for and more, and right now, I just want to be proud of them."
Yuzu went wide eye at the emotional statement, then smile. "Yes, I do too. They really are something else, I'm glad I could fight side by side with them."
"M…m…m…me too," Momo sniffle out.
Anzu smile at her friend, then turn her eyes back down the rows. She caught sight of Yukari, who was fast asleep, laying her head on Hana's shoulder. Yukari had been their rock since their team was form, her love for tanks spreading to the rest of the team as they grew together in Sensha-do. They weren't just teammates, they were friends, with her care being for everyone no matter who they were. It was her and her alone that had gotten them to this point, for which Anzu was immensely grateful for.
While watching Yukari sleep a little more, tears began to fall down Anzu's face, as the shame of putting so much on her was weighing on Anzu's mind now. With the hope that in the end, Yukari could forgive her when she was finally told the truth, which would sting worse than any defeat.
As the train carry the girls of Oarai into the sunset, that was setting on their academy as well.
XxxxX
"Thank you," Susan Marshal said, as a valet open a door for her to car.
She quickly settle herself into the back seat, then told the driver to make for the airport, since her flight was leaving the great metropolis of Tokyo and headed back to California, with her final stop being Texas, her home state. She was quite looking forward to going home, not just back to her beloved state and family, but also to her academy being built up.
Even better, Chiyo had secretly flown her All-Star University team to the academy to help train the raw recruits up, this speedy along their training ahead of schedule. It wouldn't be long before they would be on par to compete in Japan's league next year, with the ultimate goal, in the end, to raise their own league in America for Tankery once they won a championship or two.
Suddenly a ringing echoes through the car, making Susan pick up her phone with a smile as she press the call button. "Well hello Miss Shimada, everything play out as you hope?"
"Most definitely, should have seen the show I put on defending the Chi-Ha-Tan team from the Federation, while all caught on camera," Chiyo said over the phone.
Susan chuckle, then spoke. "You are the master class of deception. How is your rival holding up?"
"Not well, Shiho doesn't realize she has been played, and now will have to answer for a lot. She most definitely won't like what comes after this, but she brought this on herself," Chiyo said over the phone.
"And what of Konomi?" Susan ask.
"She's played her part, though she doesn't know it. I've already begun the steps to withdraw my funding from her academy, without it they will fall apart quickly," Chiyo explain.
"Quite shrewd my dear Chiyo," Susan joke.
"Konomi never trusted me from the start, but she made a good tool to be used to distract Shiho. They did half the work fighting one another, it's what I detest most about their family, but now things are working out for us to rise to the top," Chiyo said, with a hint of excitement in her voice.
"Yes, but I have to ask, how do I know you won't use me for a power grab?" Susan boldly ask.
"Easy, your last name isn't Nishizumi," Chiyo said, which cause both ladies to chuckle.
"Well, that is pleasing to hear. I'm on my way home now, I will make sure to take care of Alice and show her all the great spots in my home state of Texas," Susan.
"Yes, do take care of her, also make sure she gets the Boko Bears I've sent along," Chiyo said happily.
"I most definitely will, have a good day Miss Shimada, I look forward to seeing you," Susan said.
"As am I, good day," Chiyo said, then hung the phone up.
Susan now turn to look out her window to the passing people on the sidewalks, as her excitement could no longer be contained. For her Academy would soon be brought up, that would take on the Sensha-do world one day. Wolverton would be closed down, leaving them the only open academy in all of America. She make sure to reach out to some of Wolverton's talented tankers, as there was no point to waste their talent when they closed down, that would only help Susan's Devil Rangers reach the top of the mountain. One day America creating their own league, for that was the ambition of this legend of tankery, and she do all she could to obtain it.
XxxxX
Located on a small grassy hill, four girls look down to see Chi-Ha-Tan's Tankery team load up the last of their tanks, while boarding the train for home. Most of the spectators were doing the same as well from both sides, while other transportation was being brought along to get both Ooarai's and Chi-Ha-Tan's student sections to be brought back to their respective ships.
Yet these four girls wanted to watch the Chi-Ha-Tan tankery team leave intently.
"Can't believe this, they won again," one of the girls said.
"I really thought they had everything stacked against them, yet Oarai had to go and blow it," another girl in the group voiced her displeasure.
"And now the Chi-Ha-Tan warrior code is being trampled on some more," another girl in the group said.
"Now, now, girls no point fretting over results," the last girl in the group said, making her friends turn to look at her.
She was of above average height, with light skin color. Her eyes were a rich yellow and her hair jet black and flowing down her back. She wore the Chi-Ha-Tan school uniform just like her friends did, as they were students at the academy. Though she once wore a different uniform, one she once wore with pride for her tankery team, that was Chi-Ha-Tan's tankery team.
Her name was Mizuko Nonaka, a 3rd-year student and former sub commander for the Chi-Ha-Tan Sensha-do team last year.
"How can you be so cool about this Mizuko," one of the girls said. "The more they win, the more were forgotten. How long did we endure jokes and laughs at our expense, but never waver from the warrior's code our team follow."
This was met by a round of agreements from the other girls.
"I can be cool about this, because it's time we took matters into our own hands," Mizuko said.
Making her girls give her a sidelong look.
"You mean we directly intervene with our school's Sensha-do team. That might be going too far," one of the girls said apprehensively.
"We must do what we must. Our seniors fail us because they show cowardice last year against Saunders. I had hoped the Sensha-do team would die, while preserving the tradition of our club, instead, this Miho girl is washing it away," Mizuko said, her voice becoming angry.
Her girls nodded their heads in agreement to this.
Mizuko continue to speak. "If anything their team is in a precarious spot. Their Tiger 1 is beyond wreck, their commander is got to be overworked to this point. All we need to do is make sure to up the pressure a little bit. For I won't allow this Miho girl to keep trampling what made our club what it is, for the warrior code of Chi-Ha-Tan must be preserved at whatever cost."
"Yea!" her friend's roar.
"Good, now come on, we got to go plan things out, as will make sure Miho and this Tigress Corps fall, no matter what it takes," Mizuko said with a smug look, walking off into the distance as the Chi-Ha-Tan Military took off, carrying its tired team home.
Yet unbeknownst to them, another foe was coming after them, but this time it was a familiar face who make sure her underclassmen knew the price of betraying the old way.
XxxxX
"Are you serious?" Tamada ask Miho.
Miho had just recounted to Tamada about her dream, about her being the reincarnation of a great warrior from her clan, and also of her strange ability that had helped her win the day. So far, Miho had not said anything to anyone about it, even her own crew. Yet the minute she was alone with Tamada, she spill everything, hoping she believe her.
Currently, they were located in a private compartment, the only one on the entire train. Nishi had been adamant about giving them both some privacy, while the rest of the team were currently sleeping in their seats. Most use one another to rest on, as they had a long ride back to port, so they take advantage of the dull ride to catch some sleep.
"I am," Miho confess, as she slip on her tracksuit, glad to be out of her sweat-drench tankery uniform.
Before they boarded the train, they were allowed to take some warm showers quickly in some stalls set up by the Federation, as they didn't want the girls to catch a cold. Then they were given fresh tracksuits for the girls to wear to keep warm on the way home.
"That's crazy, who do you think the woman in your dreams is?" Tamada ask, as she was unfolding the seat in the compartment area, that folded out to a bed, while also setting up the blankets and pillows for Miho to sleep on.
"My grandmother, but I still have no recollection of ever meeting her. Also, my mother never talk about her as I grew up," Miho said, shaking her head wondering why her mother never mentioned her before.
"I'm pretty sure she had her reasons, then again, maybe not," Tamada said, stopping what she was doing to turn to Miho.
She took in the sight of Miho staring at the window, her mind seem to be anywhere but there. For Tamada, she could tell her lover had many questions that were so far left unanswered. Having to shoulder it all on her own, but Tamada was not going to let that happen anymore, she already made a vow that she make sure to fulfill.
Taking a couple of steps, Tamada came to Miho's side, then touch her shoulder to make her lover look at her. "Miho, how about we get you into bed to rest."
Not replying to the request, Miho look into Tamada's eyes, with a longing look. Then slowly Miho lean up to lightly kiss Tamada, who was a little surprised by the boldness of her usually more reserved lover. Yet, just by a couple of small kisses, Tamada could tell Miho needed this, which also the fiery Vice commander needed as well, having to keep herself in check when Miho came back to them at first, but now being allowed what she wanted to do since they were alone.
Pulling back from the kiss, Miho smiled at Tamada. "I've missed you."
"I miss you too," Tamada said happily, then smirk.
The smirk spoke to Tamada being up to no good, making Miho defensive. Her defensive nature was the right approach, as suddenly Tamada scoop Miho up into a bridal carry, making Miho yelp in surprise. Squirming in her lover's grasp, Miho look to get herself free, but Tamada was having none of it, relishing seeing her lover become flustered, as it was a way to ease Miho's worries it felt like, by being playful.
"Hey stop squirming. You owe me, don't think I didn't see that American girl pick you up," Tamada said, a little annoyance in her voice.
"She was just helping is all," Miho shot back.
"No she was being too touchy," Tamada shot back.
Miho sighed, then spoke. "I knew you get jealous Haru."
"Of course, only I get to carry you, it's a tradition at this point," Tamada teased.
"Don't sound so proud about it," Miho whined.
"Why not? This is something I do for my lover," Tamada said, leaning her face down to kiss Miho quickly.
After the small kiss was over, Miho pouted. "You just get to do whatever you want with me, it's not fair."
"They say life's not fair," Tamada said, looking proud of her comment.
"You're using that out of context," Miho whined again.
That made Tamada chuckle, to which Miho began to chuckle as well. Their bond as lovers made them closer than ever before, which was only strengthening more and more. They could joke with one another, rely on one another, and they were both grateful for each other.
Glad to get Miho to smile and laugh, as that felt like Tamada's personal job at this point, not that she didn't mind it. Now she carry Miho over to the fold-out bed, then gently laid her down onto. Next, she pull the covers over Miho, who look ready to pass out once again. Tamada reach over to stroke her face gently, just over the bruised spot under her left eye, while she kneel beside the bed.
Miho watching Tamada with her right eye, spoke now. "does the bruise look bad?"
"It makes you look like a badass," Tamada said with a grin.
"Haru, no cursing," Miho scolded.
Raising her other hand to admit defeat, Tamada still rub the bruised spot gently. She then lean in, placing her lips on the bruise to lay a gentle kiss on it. Though this would do nothing to erase it from her face, Miho felt instant relief from the minor pain she felt from her bruise. As her lover's kiss seem to melt it away, as Tamada always seem to do, melt her pain and worries away.
"It will go away, but even this bruise doesn't take any of your beauty away," Tamada said, leaning forward to touch her forehead to Miho's.
Miho just blush at the words, then spoke. "Do believe me? About my dream and my ability?"
Leaning back a bit, still kneeling beside the bed, Tamada just smile at Miho. "Of course I believe you. I never doubt you for a minute. Yet, what are you going to do about this? That ability of yours made your nose bleed remember. It could be more harmful than good."
"Your right, but this must have been passed down for a reason. I just don't know why yet, and that's what bothers me," Miho said, turning onto her side to look at Tamada.
Tamada nodded at that. "Maybe so, but there will be time to figure all this out later. Right now, just rest, I'll be in the other fold-out bed over here if you need me."
Then Tamada stood up to walk to the others side of the compartment, but Miho reach a hand out to grab the sleeve of Tamada's tracksuit. Turning back, Tamada look into Miho's eyes, who were staring intently at her, with that longing look that made Tamada's heart pound, wanting to do what she could to give Miho whatever she needed.
"Haru, this may be a little bold, but could you hug me while I sleep," Miho ask sheepishly.
"You mean cuddle?" Tamada questioned with a playful smirk.
"Oh, is that the word?" Miho said with an embarrass smile.
"Yep, and you are being bold asking me that," Tamada said playfully.
Miho curl up in the bed, feeling discomfort now by her request. "I didn't mean to be. Yet I don't want to sleep alone right now."
"I understand, besides I was going to do this anyway, just without asking after you fell asleep," Tamada tease, as she climb into bed.
"You're the worst Haru, you tease me when you wanted to do this already," Miho complain, while scooting away from Tamada.
That made Tamada chuckle at her. "Don't be such a poor sport and come here."
With a pout still, Miho obey, as Tamada placed the covers over them. Quickly they both melded into one another, with Tamada draping her arms over Miho to bring her into her body, relishing in the feel of her lovers warmth against her body. Though Tamada had to push down her desires at moment, knowing now wasn't the time for such things, especially when Miho was hurt from the match.
"Hehe, your warm Haru," Miho said, nuzzling her way into the crook of Tamada's neck.
"You are too Miho," Tamada said, doing her best to keep calm.
Silence soon fill the compartment, as both girls just enjoy the warmth and the being close to one another. Everything seem to just float away for them, there were no thoughts about the next match, or what the future held. All there was right now, just two girls who care for each other deeply, taking a moment to enjoy this quiet being afforded to them, before they had to return to their duties to the team.
"Haru?" Miho ask, as her eyelid look to finally close for a long sleep.
"Yes, Miho?" Tamada said, feeling her own eyelids becoming heavy finally.
"Thank you, for being here for me, this journey we are on, was only possible because you chase me when I wanted to run away that first day," Miho said quietly.
"Where's all this coming from?" Tamada ask, wondering why Miho was bringing this up.
"I just feel it's what my heart wants to say right now," Miho said, gripping the front of Tamada's tracksuit as if to show how strongly she felt about it.
"Well don't get all nostalgic on me just yet, our journey has just begun. Not just in tankery, also in life, there's going to be more for us to discover together," Tamada said.
That made Miho chuckle. "I like that, to discover new things with you."
"That sounds dirty," Tamada couldn't help but tease.
"Haru," Miho whine quietly, while shaking her head.
"Sorry, but I'm being honest. Your my world Miho, whatever may come, I'll be by your side," Tamada said, resolute in her promise.
"Alright, I'll be by your side too, nothing will stop us," Miho said, letting herself become giddy for the future.
Soon both girls let sleep take over, their bodies holding each other close, and hands intertwine. As again they and their team had overcome another obstacle on this long climb to the top of the Sensha-do mountain. Discovering along the way the resolve and fighting spirit of their first years, as well as two souls finally taking a leap together to finally let their feelings be known, letting go of their past for their future.
Yet things were not going to be any easier going forward, as the battles were going to become more intense. They would be tested in ways they never thought possible, but as always, they had each other. They had their belief, the drive, and fighting spirit that would guide them on, for they were Tigresses who never gave in, never gave up, and roar their defiance for all the world to see.
As this trial was over now, a new one was beginning.
Volume 3 End.
