The meeting progressed smoothly. A few hiccups occurred but were quickly fixed such as when Virtanen had made a mistake with his jam but was quickly corrected by Kaier before their hosts could. Naturally, wordplay was at work as well. Contrary to their expectations Katyusha had seemingly matured quite a bit from last year's reports. She continually used ever-subtle insults and backhanded remarks as they were 'novices' and that perhaps with a few years of hard work they could achieve what Pravda had and secure a national victory.
They had spoken for some time already and the necessary information of their match such as the place, time, and insultingly to Virtanen and Kaiser if they knew the basic rules. Now it seemed they had moved onto pleasantries and prodding for subtle information. Here once more they found themselves on the defense as Virtanen found himself to be no match in a battle of words and wit.
He was thankful Katyusha didn't seem intent on gathering information. She left no flattery or roundabout questioning instead it seemed she was focused solely on wearing down his morale. If anything her tone had become more condescending as she cheekily glared up at the boy nearly twice her size as he stiffly sipped his tea.
Kaiser and Nonna had stayed virtually silent as their commanders freely spoke. Only moving when to lean in and whisper advice or to quickly interject in the conversation. With a quick word and sharp glare, they would immediately get the conversation back on track if it would deviate too far from their original goal.
Again Virtanen felt as if it was two puppeteers and their dolls putting on a show. Nonna's actions mirrored Kaiser's all too much except for when Katyusha would cast a nervous glance up in response, Nonna reciprocated with a warm smile. Perhaps this was more a meeting of handlers speaking through intermediaries?
Once more it happened again as he thought over the situation. Katyusha had begun bragging over her teammates as 'useful pawns' a clear bluff, her pride in her team shone through her facade of carelessness. As she prattled on Nonna interrupted her, pushing her tea closer. "Lady Katyusha please drink before it gets cold".
Releasing a quick breath from his nostrils, Virtanen glanced at Kaiser. Perhaps it was evident to no one but himself, he could tell Kaiser was annoyed at Nonna's proficient handling.
Kaiser meanwhile was thinking of what cards they had to play. Information wise Transcendence held an advantage. They were a new school year with no recorded matches except the Saunders scrimmage, the information of which was scarce opposed to Pravda who played up to the semifinals nearly every year. Their commanders alone were famous across all other schools. Their fame preceded them whereas he and Virtanen appeared as a mysterious duo in black with no discernable records.
That's why Pravda was equally intent on this meeting. They were being assessed in character as well as capability. It seemed Katyusha disregarded them while Nonna, ever so cautious, never let down her guard.
Virtanen sat quietly having run thin on patience. He tightly clasped his cup as Katyusha sat with crossed legs, tapping a foot against her chair as she couldn't reach the ground. They both had grown tired of the meeting. Where one sought to garner a reaction and the other sought to remain polite.
Katyusha's next sentence ignited Virtanen's recent bout of inferiority and pride. "Even though you are upstarts you have manners, or at least one of you does. I, Katyusha am not impressed however and if you surrender your troops on the day of the event we will spare you any unnecessary embarrassment." she spouted.
Virtanen tightly gripped his trouser leg at the sudden insult. Slowly he tried to reign in his response knowing that he shouldn't paint a poor picture as a representative.
Kaiser himself was surprised how quickly the girl could switch from haughty to fearful of her aide and back to downright condescending. He could even see a tint of discomfort on Nonna's face at the remark. It showed just how well that even if Nonna was her partner she was still a subordinate with no control over her commander.
As everyone was caught off guard and therefore not interrupting, the tyrants continued. "No matter how incompetent you prove yourself to be Katyusha will always pity the weak and pitiful."
The insult's struck a minefield of nerves for Virtanen. Seemingly from one and landing on another. An insult to his pride, her belittling words and offer, and mostly the pompous little smile worn by this "woman" as he would hardly call her. As quickly as the final syllable left her mouth his teeth began to grind out one word. "Midget."
As quickly as Katyusha jumped atop her chair and Virtanen leaned across the table to exchange harsh words, Kaiser and Nonna were much quicker. With a roll of the eyes from Kaiser and a sigh from Nonna, both shot a hand out to their leader's shoulders firmly grasping and planting them in place. Both then leaned over and whispered into their ears. Virtanen relaxed in his seat while Kaiser kept a firm hand on his shoulder. Katyusha sat back down now crossing her arms, closed off to conversation as Nonna glared daggers at Virtanen who was too preoccupied with his subsiding anger to notice the intensity placed on him.
Silence reigned supreme in the large room leaving no sound but a fire crackling away in the corner. Kaiser took the opportunity to broker an understanding. "Excuse my colleague's comment 'Lady' Katyusha. Although my commander still has much to learn as any other who partakes in Senshado his pride is based on the faith of his companions. I'm sure you could understand. I assure you that he respects both of you when I say we decline your 'offer'." With a nod of his head, he glanced up to see the sulking Katuusha glance over.
As Nonna's Intense glare abated, Katyusha let out a small 'hmph'. "As I said, only one of you seems to have manners! Very well, I Katyusha will forgive the insolence of your friend, once!"
Virtanen grumbled to himself. Feeling Kaiser's grip tighten on his shoulder silenced his rebellious thoughts. With the distrustful gaze of Nonna still on him, Kaiser felt it was time to move on.
"It is about time for us to depart wouldn't you say?" said Kaiser.
Katyusha raised a brow. "One moment please". Turning to Nonna she exchanged a few words before her peer took a small leave. Upon returning she whispered into Katyusha's ear in which she gave a strange offer to the two boys. "There is still time in the day, why don't you two take a tour of our beloved ship?"
Virtanen was perplexed by the offer. Kaiser Insisted she go on.
"It is simple, enjoy all Pravda has to offer. After all, we have heard that you were impressed by our culture and discipline so what is there to lose? Right Nonna?".
Nonna nodded with closed eyes and politely agreed. "That is correct, we have much to show".
Taking a step forward, Kaiser was the one to agree. With a clap of her hands, Katyusha smiled. "Then let us phone your guides". With one last scornful look, Nonna walked over to a dial phone in the corner of the room. After a quick call to their student council and within a moment two students knocked on the door and entered with red armbands holding Pravda's logo.
The male and female duo introduced themselves as their new guides and presented a pair of armbands similar to theirs. Handing one to each they stated that they were for identification as guests and to not leave their sides. The two nodded their understanding and turned to excuse themselves.
"Thank you for your hospitality, we shall see that it does not go to waste. Have a good day Lady Katyusha, Miss Nonna." nodded Kaiser. Virtanen gave a short "Likewise" and followed their guides out. Kaiser narrowed his eyes at his peer's curt response. Whether Katyusha was as well was left unknown as she called after them.
Turning at her call they saw her standing atop the table with scattered dishes at her feet. "I have shown you mercy here, there will be none on the field" she warned. Kaiser and Virtanen took the threat with snickering grins as Nonna chastised Katusha to not standing atop the table. As she awkwardly got down they took their leave before Virtanen burst out with another inflammatory reply.
Kaiser thought the scene comedic himself if it weren't for the looks their opponents held. Katyusha's eyes were piercing and Nonnas was intense. He could tell from that alone of their experience and willingness to fight tooth and nail for their victory.
Once the doors closed behind them and their guides were a few paces ahead the two shared their thoughts. Virtanen spoke first in a hushed whisper. "I can't wait to crush that brat".
"I wouldn't have it any other way. But now I am starting to realize they won't make it easy".
"Even I know that. She's annoying but her reputation proceeds her. She definitely won't fall for my taunts" joked Virtanen.
Kaiser snickered. "You think she's bad? If I were you I would watch out for Nonna. You should have seen the glare she sent your way" warned Kaiser.
"Was it that bad?" asked Virtanen in earnest.
"Almost gave me chills" responded Kaiser with a sarcastic grin.
"Definitely bad then" agreed Virtanen with a grimace.
"It certainly was but it gave off a good chill" continued Kaiser.
"Didn't need to know that aspect of your character" mocked Virtanen with a scowl.
"Your the masochist, not me" quipped Kaiser. "I meant her personality is merciless to opponents. Something for us to look forward to" he explained.
"Uh-huh, so why are you in a good mood all of a sudden?" asked Virtanen.
Kaiser glanced at their guides who cast a look back at them now and then, curious as to their hushed conversation. Careful as to his volume, Kaiser clarified the situation. "They're probably copying the fake intel I planted in the plane, hence why we were offered to stay longer".
"I never heard about fake intel"
"You never needed to" reasoned Kaiser.
"Anyone ever tell you it's your hobby to overanalyze?"
"They don't need to, it's my job. Soon it'll be our turn to strike, just be sure to cover for me when you can". Tired of them lagging behind their guide insisted they keep up lest they take all day. The two increased their pace and for a short time enjoyed the escort they were given.
Outside of the school proper, they were asked if they had any areas of interest. Kaiser outright stated he wished to see the 'town square' of the ship to which his escorts begrudgingly complied. Midday and with most classes out the area was packed. Students and residents alike went about their day past the large stone fountains and monuments centered in the square.
On their way in, they were greeted by many kind adults who hospitably welcomed them despite their foreign attire. Some would try to hold lengthy conversations only to be told they were in a hurry by the twos escort. It worked in benefit for Kaiser who was seeking to make use of his time as well.
Once in the square, their escort's vigilance heightened, uneasy at the shifting crowds of people. With an elbow, Kaiser notified Virtanen to begin. Taking on a somewhat childish attitude, Virtanen played at being excited. "It's beautiful!" he said aloud. "I can't wait to try some of their food, do they sell borscht there?!" and without a further word, he was off at a trot with their escorts chasing after.
Kaiser took the opportunity to remove his jacket, placing his cover underneath, to seem less conspicuous amongst others while joining a larger crowd walking away from his friendly distraction. As Virtanen went on speaking of his excitement to try pirozhki and chebureki, Kaiser had already slipped away.
It was only after a quick scolding during which Virtanen happily munched on the delicious treats in his hands did their escorts notice their missing charge.
"Where did he go?! Asked the female in a panic. The male looked around unable to identify him amongst the crowd.
Swallowing a large bite of his pirozhki, Virtanen chuckled. "Sorry about him he tends to get lost, bad sense of direction and all. I'm sure we'll find him before we know it if not the other way". The escorts exchanged cautious glances, even Virtanen could tell they didn't want to report their failure within only fifteen minutes of taking them on.
Kaiser meanwhile had known they were being tailed and intended to shake them before he continued. Sure enough after doubling back, there was a figure with a small frame leaning behind the corner of an alley. Exposing only her camera's lens to take a picture and then scratch something down on a notepad. Kaiser had only noticed her before because she had started tailing them outright from the school building. In those empty halls, it was hard to be ignored.
His appearance was certainly a surprise to her. Without notice, Kaiser enlisted the help of some younger children running about. With the exchange of a few dollars, the trio of children swatted at her skirt from behind. Alarmed, she reached behind at her skirt and shouted after the perpetrators. As she did, Kaiser approached and relieved her of her camera. With her hands occupied on her decency, she quickly lost her tool and fought to get it back before realizing who had taken it.
While she processed what had happened, Kaiser thumbed through the pictures. All were of them and their short stay onboard. Glancing at the speechless girl, he noticed a notepad on her person as well.
"Catch," he said, tossing the expensive camera in the air. The girl held both arms in the air as Kaiser reached low and swiped her notepad. The short-worded notes were over their behavior, conversation, and overall evaluation as threats. With a dismissive grin, Kaiser noticed that both he and Virtanen were seemingly evaluated as nonthreats.
Observing the girl who seemed depressed at having fallen for the same trick he noticed a shining pin on her collar. It was the Pravda crest once more yet with gold on black and Russian lettering on it spelling 'NKV'.
"Gathering information, I see?" The culprit tensed up with a squeak only for Kaiser to silence her with a finger. "Let's strike a deal." Freedom of movement and the ability to go unmonitored was his goal. Putting on a sensual tone he placated somewhat as he extended his offer. "I'll pretend that you weren't admiring us from afar if you act as my new guide for a little, then we'll go our separate ways with no one the wiser~".The girl's distress was replaced by confusion, despite being dazed by his shift in tone she shook her head in refusal.
"I don't think you have much room to refuse" he insisted, his smile slowly faltering. Cracking an eye open her meek posture seemed to ask 'why?'. He didn't hesitate to explain her tenuous position. "Public image of course. Yours and your schools. I can see it now, 'Pravda harasses and stalks friendly competitors', and of course, they'll need a scapegoat. Who else except the very person I just caught? I'll just wrestle away that SD card in your camera and it's my win."
"I-I'll scream for help if you try anything, no one would believe you!" bluffed the girl her flustered cheeks betraying her attempts at keeping calm.
"Will they? With current evidence who's more reputable? A distinguished guest whom your school would avoid tension with or a disposable subordinate in Pravda's 'secret' NKV?" His words on whether Pravda would care if they were outed was a mere bluff but the truth that she was just another member of their intel unit frayed the poor girl's nerves.
As she looked up at his cynical words his grin had turned from its kind facade to taunting, a teasing tug. His eyes pierced into her as her commanders would when they were displeased. Rather than anger, his eyes seemed to be mischievous, as if he was enjoying the intimidation he was having on her. He stepped forward and leaned down towards her ear giving further reasoning in hushed words that struck into her mind. She couldn't think straight as her breath drew short.
With a flushed face and the back of her hand hiding half her face, she conceded. "O-okay". Kaiser relented, as his victim gathered her nerves in preparation for his questioning, he glanced around. 'Thank god nobody saw that, I feel like I'm getting better at this in the worst way. I'm starting to feel guilty about it' he thought as he led his guide away.
-Transition-
After getting some information on locations from his newly obtained guide, who turned out to be a rather respected member of their school and a senior at that, Kaiser sent her away. With a promise that neither would mention their conversation or coordination, she would return to the city square without looking back. He had her assist him in one vital task however, she helped him obtain a Pravdan school uniform. Implicating her further ensured her compliance yet he allowed her to go about it her own way, avoiding the many cameras and prying eyes she knew well of.
Once she returned from the mechanical club's locker room with a clean uniform she gave a timid demand that he was to return the uniform to the locker she had taken it from. As he changed behind the building he gave an agreement, to which she scampered off with a blushed face, now done with her 'dealings with the devil' as it would be known.
Casually he strolled into the same locker room now dressed in his new disguise, hiding his black uniform. No longer the only spot of black and white on the whole ship he set about with a newfound feeling of freedom or as much as he could while trying to avoid being monitored.
Casting a glance he caught the glimpse of himself in the mirror. Green coat over a red shirt, black trousers, and dress shoes. 'Not bad' he thought. He still believed his school's grey and red dress uniforms were far superior, however, even if he did rarely wear them in favor of his black Senshado uniform.
With the final touch, he placed his guest armband on. As far as he could tell the student council and guest armbands were near indistinguishable. He doubted the average student would notice and for those that question it, he would play off as a new member gaining his bearings. It would be his cover as to why he wasn't in class or with a club.
The beginning of his investigation had achieved little, learning only the layout of the school while remaining hidden from any school staff or troublesome personnel. His first hiccup came as he neared the garage housing their vehicles.
As he walked down the empty road towards the structure a feminine voice called out to him. "What are you doing comrade?".
For a fraction of a second, his face twisted at the inconvenience. Turning around, however, his facade had taken over. Upon doing so he came face to face with a pair of girls, one a dirty blonde and the other with black hair, both gently wiping sweat off their faces. A glance up and down showed that they were wearing green gym shorts and red T-shirts with the Pravda symbol. He assumed they were running laps around the school and took a detour upon noticing him.
Kaiser played into a false personality, with a polite tone he feigned ignorance. "Ah, Hello comrades. I am just trying to see the Senshado department." His response drew suspicious eyes from the two girls. The dirty blonde continued addressing him as the other circled him, observing him. Though fearful he had been caught, he continued playing his part. With skittish eyes, he followed the dark-haired girl and spoke with the blonde. "I-is something the matter?"
"Perhaps…What's your name?" inquired the blonde.
'Shit'. "Nicholas, Nicholas Prokov" he answered, throwing a random first name out while using his co commanders last name. Hopefully the common first name and uncommon last would make a believable pairing. The black-haired girl's scrutinizing gaze seemed to intensify as she stood behind him.
"So Nicholas, why are you around our turf?" questioned the blonde.
"I am doing my job" he answered, pointing to his armband awkwardly and cursing his luck that they were Senshado students.
"Student council?" asked the first girl.
"Who are you with?" asked the dark-haired girl.
"Treasury department" he responded in turn.
"What's your task?"
"To record and document the Senshado clubs expenses and investments. Kind of like an audit but not as serious or so I'm told"
"What year are you?"
"A sophomore, however, this is my first year at Pravda I'm from the land before this. Although I guess that's obvious" he nervously chuckled, scratching the back of his neck.
As the second girl rejoined the first they shared some whispers. "Our junior huh? Why haven't we seen you around?" asked the first girl before giggling with her friend.
Kaiser felt confused at their sudden change in mannerism but continued with his false history. "It's kind of why I joined the student council actually. I was told I should become more social and so to meet new people I got the job, didn't really get around much before"
"Hmmmmm, last we were briefed, all documentation to the school board was handled with direct supervision by Nonna and Clara." recalled the dark-haired girl.
"It was, I guess that's why they sent me on a redundant task. So I couldn't mess it up" with an embarrassed gesture of scratching his cheek, Kaiser checked to see if they were buying his act. He opened to see the two girls leaning in and observing him closely.
The sudden proximity left him uncomfortable to which he gulped. They seemed to mistake his reaction as nervousness around the opposite sex. With teasing glances at each other they gave an offer he would have loved to refuse.
"Well, why don't we show you around, it'll go quicker that way" suggested the first girl.
"Besides guests aren't allowed with a supervisor accompanying them" agreed the second.
"Er, O-okay" he concurred, accepting his defeat.
Bristling at the idea, the two girls latched onto both of his arms and introduced themselves. "I'm Alina," said the blonde. "And I'm Kira" concluded the black-haired girl.
As he was dragged along, he griped internally. 'Well at least acting like Knight worked. Perhaps too well, I never thought women liked to pick on males with defenseless personalities like this'.
Alina opened a side door as Kira began to chat in his ear. "We've been having trouble planning out personal funds for crews, can you believe we don't even get snacks!"
The three entered the large building, cluttered with vehicles and a few individuals bobbing about. His 'captors' at least they felt as much, announced their arrival. "Hey everyone!"
The few occupants ignored the shout but seemed to recognize their voices. A couple looked over and rolled their eyes at the familiar noise. For better or worse it seemed that no one would question him further so long as he was with these two and didn't raise suspicion.
Despite that, his captors were now introducing him to a few select individuals to assist him in his 'audit'. After asking him where his pen and paper were, to which he said he forgot them. After a quick laugh at his supposed forgetfulness and supplying him with some, he began helping the girls budget their expenses.
He was familiar with the process having done it due to his position at Transcnedance and didn't complain since the info was invaluable. Being given a run-down of their expenses for parts, gear, and other training tools gave him insight as to what they were bringing. He could even estimate what vehicles they may bring to the match itself depending on what parts they needed for what vehicles due to heavy usage.
However, even with their open attitudes, they withheld some information such as 'secret expenses'. Despite this, his intel-gathering could now be labeled a success with the heaps of knowledge he had obtained. Any feelings of guilt were abolished as he had helped them considerably with crunching some numbers so as far as he was concerned they were despite his deceit.
As "Nicholas Prokov" ended his 'audit' another pair of students burst into the building looking for something or someone. Seeing them first he noted their armbands and ducked away. One of the senior girls he had been introduced to earlier went to question the new arrivals while the two girls he was with asked each other why student representatives were there. Kaiser figured that they would send a separate group to locate him whether his prior 'ally' ratted him out or not. Regardless he sought to escape the side door he had entered.
"Where are ya going?" asked Alina.
"I have other business to attend to and besides my seniors over there." he gestured weakly to the two students interrogating the senior girl. "Usually, they only look for me to blame and scold me over something that wasn't my fault. Though it pained him to act cowardly it seemed to strike a chord of sympathy from his feminine counterparts.
"Gotcha" whispered Alina as Kira nodded along, wiping an absent tear. "Head to the back storage, behind some large crates is an exit no one uses".
"Be careful, it squeals if you open further than halfway," added Kira with a wink.
Surprised at their kindness, Kaiser was left stunned. He couldn't expose himself but instead gave them a small smile. "Thank you two, really." It was the girl's turn for surprise, temporarily captivated by his smile, they absentmindedly waved until he was out of sight.
The student reps were passed towards Alina and Kira who denied knowing anything of him other than speaking to him shortly. With disgruntled faces, the reps left without a further word. Alina and Kira high-fived feeling they had helped a 'cute underclassmen' unknowing of the ploy. Kaiser doubted they would ever meet again as he quietly slipped away.
-Transition-
On his way back to the locker room to change back into uniform and head to the airfield, Kaiser felt he was cutting time close and feared arousing suspicion. He was being hunted. He had even been stopped by a small girl named Nina, apparently a KV-2 operator despite her size, who demanded to know who he was. Annoyed at the obstruction he used his usual demanding tone and curt behavior against the timid girl. Using the authority of the student council he was 'a part of' he threatened of informing Nonna and Katyusha that she was obstructing his investigation for the same.
She bit back saying she'd never seen him before to which he replied with a sinister tone. "That means I've been doing my job right. Why else would I be here?!" In hindsight, he may have been too stern with her. Near to tears, whether from him or threat of Nonna she folded and let him on his way.
Retrieving his stashed clothing Kaiser felt a rush of panic himself. His uniform was gone. As he checked the nearby area he heard a click from behind.
Slowly, he turned. With a confident look in her eyes but the same polite smile, Clara stood behind him playing with his luger and his uniform folded neatly on a nearby bench.
"Zdravstvuyte" she greeted, lowering the pistol to him.
"Hello. Clara correct?" replied Kaiser, turning to face her.
"Have I caught you at a bad time?" she asked her graceful smile unflinching.
"I'd say. I mean I'm flattered but this is the men's locker room you know?"
"For Pravda students" she replied unaffected by his joke.
Kaiser threw his arms out wide with a taunting grin. "I look the part don't I? So what now?"
"Shall we start with how much you know?" suggested Clara in kind. "Perhaps with Lady Katyusha and Miss Nonna as well?
"Sure, may I have my property back once we're done here?". Eyeing his sidearm in her possession he noted how carefully she handled it. Many females found small arms barbaric, unlike tanks. Clara seemed to be an exception.
She took a moment to contemplate his request before spinning the pistol in her hand gracefully and extending the grip toward him. "Of course, we are not thieves like yourself. You are especially disgraceful for doing so after Lady Katyusha had praised you."
The chastising was unexpected, Clara seemingly being offended for Katyusha was even more so. He had been caught gathering intel red-handed and perhaps lost this little battle of espionage. Kaiser had not given up yet, his mind was now fixated on escape.
"If you don't mind, I'd like to change before you take me in" stated Kaiser undoing his jacket and approaching his clothes.
Clara kept her eyes fixated on him regardless. Kaiser coughed awkwardly "You know, I'd rather avoid anyone walking in while you stare at me half-naked, putting my clothes on in shame".
The idea of embarrassing him further seemed to amuse her before she reasoned it would be troublesome. She stood turned next t the door ready to intercept anyone who entered but kept her peripherals on him. It didn't please Kaiser, but he began changing quickly.
"Never thought my day would go like this, caught and soon to be interrogated" chuckled Kaiser miserably.
Clara kept silent for a moment before responding. "It was your mistake choosing Katyusha and her loyal followers as enemy's".
"Pft, Wasn't my choice to face all of you right out the gate, can thank the federation for that" snickered Kaiser.
Again she silently contemplated before speaking. "You would make a fine asset for Pravda. Perhaps you would be better suited to a transfer, after all, you seem to fit in the uniform just fine". Absentmindedly she put on a kind smile and glanced over at him, to tempt him into consideration. She was met with raised eyebrows as he was shirtless.
Having caught her unintentional peeking Kaiser seemed surprised himself. In reality, it was regarding her offer. Admittedly the first thought that came across his mind was putting Virtanen's nose in the dirt to prove him wrong, but that was a personal grudge. Reason took hold as he taunted her In a monotone voice. "I didn't know the esteemed Clara was into voyeurism".
An awkward cough came as she turned her head away, slightly embarrassed, an unusual circumstance for her to say the least. Kaiser noted how well she kept her emotions in check, not even a blush. 'She seems too perfect. Almost as if trained.' he thought. He had one suspicion of where she gained such training, perhaps he could trip her up further.
"Thank you for the offer but I decline. I was selected for my school for a reason. Besides, it would be much more fun facing you as an adversary. It isn't as if the head of Pravda's NKV can trust a new exchange student that easily, can it?"
The slightest tension in her shoulder occurred and Kaiser noticed it, encouraging him to press on. "After all that's what your unofficial position here is right? You're overqualified for it. Your father an intelligence operative, your mother, a general, and you working for them to scout out Katyusha and Nonna".
Clara snapped her head left and stared him down. "How do you- Enough, it is time you go before Lady Katyusha for your punishment and re-education."
As she approached to apprehend him Kaiser raised his hands nonchalantly. "Do you really think we are unaware of your spying? You may be well trained but your peers here aren't". Again she showed no outward change, but her eyes showed hesitation, conflict.
"The crew raiding my plane, your cameras following us, random students following or snapping pictures nonchalantly, Why I'm sure your ground crew must have already placed a wiretap on my plane right? Maybe even using the blasphemous gossip blog as a mole on my ship."
No refusal, her slight frown spurred him on. "Let's cut a deal" he suggested. "I go home with my commander and Pravda's 'covert' operations won't be exposed as a weakness for all other schools. Neither of us has to take this up further than it needs to."
Clara stared intensely at him. Being talked into a corner from him must have been a bitter pill to swallow. His brown eyes stared confidently into her crystal blue.
"Very well only Nonna shall hear and no higher. I believe it is time for you to leave. Do not think it will be as easy to lose me" she warned.
Kaiser adjusted his black jacket and shifted his cover. "Of course, let's save the CQC for another time." He grinned.
Clara glared at him through narrowed eyes. Without another word, she escorted him to his plane where Virtanen waited.
To Virtanen's relief, Kaiser appeared with Clara and thanked her in Russian. Clara raised a brow at him before leaving.
Kaiser inspected his vehicle for a wiretap and to his surprise found none. Perhaps called off by Clara on their way back. It wasn't until they had taken off did the two peers speak of their trip.
Virtanen began, bragging of how he played off his absence and had kept them from looking too hard. Once done he asked Kaiser about his own experience. "So while I was working to cover you what were you up to? Seducing more girls?" he joked.
Kaiser remained silent as he fished in his pockets. His silence and lack of refusal, upsetting his peer.
"Wait, what? You were really out there flirting?! That's what I covered for? Was it that Clara girl, no let me guess Nonna wasn't it?"
Annoyed, Kaiser tossed the small notepad he had been given at Virtanen's head. Wincing at the blow Virtanen looked at the offending object. "Kaiser..." he began, sounding astounded. "I can't read cursive."
Kaiser sighed, demanding the book back. "I'll brief you along with the rest. After today I just want to return home." Virtanen wasn't done pressing him for answers, however, as he interrogated Kaiser tuned him out and thought back to his close encounter with Clara.
'Could I have beaten her in combat? What is the strange bond between her and Nonna?' Most concerning was her question of how he knew of her parents. 'Does she and the other major figures in Senshado not know their fans made a wiki about them?!'
-Transition-
Back on Pravda Clara and Nonna sat watching the Stuka take off in the distance. Katyusha was taking her afternoon nap.
"That man is infuriating and frustratingly capable" stated Clara.
"Agreed. He will certainly be an obstacle in the upcoming match. We shall remove him for Katyusha" declared Nonna The two girls nodded in unison, clasping hands. "For Katyusha!" They declared.
The ground crew students near them watched puzzled. 'Why were they speaking Russian?'
-Chapter End-