Both teams lay in open fields miles apart, their audience sitting to the far north where terrain turned to vast hillsides granting a higher elevation as opposed to the densely wooded south. An occasional farmstead or small town dotted the plains and hills accompanying the vast fields of wheat and wild grass littering the plains in the center. The only true urban environment resided in the northeast. More precisely, the hosting city was deep within Pravda's starting territory in the east.
The sun was already beginning its descent as the alarm began to sound. Though the oncoming darkness frayed nerves for new students and cause concerns for seniors on both sides, it seemed to invigorate the audience that much more. With their cheers, the match had officially begun.
Engines roared to life in a hurry as the steel masses slowly animated. Per Kaiser's opening plan, the transcendence team headed due east, reaching and settling into a small set of hills.
The terrain formed narrow passes providing them overwatch on the majority of the surrounding area. Their initiative was to secure these vital points and force Pravda to suffer an early staggering loss and dissuade them from reaching any vital areas of interest.
Seeing that Pravda held fifteen tanks to the twelve they could muster with confidence, the intent was to force Pravda to fight offensively and then retreat before they could manage a breakthrough, mitigating the possibility of being overrun. This was, of course, wishful thinking on their part or so Kaiser would dismiss his plan as. Each leader was aware and prepared for alternate and very real possibilities. The assumption was that Pravda knew of the obvious strategic points or would attempt the seize them as well. Time was of the essence.
The column proceeded with haste, Sokolov's Stug IV broke formation without notice, initiating the second phase of the plan. His destination lay southeast into the woods where he would skirt along the treeline. Low enough and deep within to avoid detection but capable of reconnaissance. His fellow squad vehicles, the SU-100 and PZ SFL IVc would act as support in their roles as tank destroyers to the main effort while he attended his specialized role.
Events in motion and tension high, some cadets tried to break it through the overbearing atmosphere with lighthearted humor, even in Kaiser's vehicle.
Peering through his left visor, Kaiser waded through his thoughts. The list hanging on the interior's wall numbered off the vehicles of friend and foe alike. The IS-3 and KV-5 were the two names predominantly occupying his mind.
He was sure the enemy held them in their arsenal, and he felt gleeful anticipation at facing them. Distracted by his thoughts, Kaiser hadn't noticed how tense his crew had become. His Driver Westhoffen spoke up, hoping to ease the quiet tension within the vehicle.
"So who's ready for a turkey shoot?" he asked jokingly.
"What… do you mean?" asked Katya as she fiddled with the radio nervously.
"Our opponents are operating T-34s and the like. E~asy prey. Our only real worries are those heavys and that scary vice commander of theirs with her abnormal accuracy." explained 'West's self-assured that he knew how it would all play out.
Though it was simple bravado, his words did earn a couple of unsure chuckles from the girls. Kaiser remained quiet, it was painfully obvious how they felt. They were nervous. The confidence in their skill wavering at a domineering foe. The hesitation in their voices, the wavering speech, He didn't care nor sympathize with them but f it helped calm their nerves, he deigned not to interfere.
Yet he didn't want them to be complacent either. "Quantity has its quality and experience can render design and technology useless" Kaiser warned. Though he had no intention of spoiling their moods the previous somber and quiet atmosphere returned. Unknown to him, his words of gentle warning came across as a threat of doom to his subordinates.
Only accompanied by the engines whir and the ever-present wind whistling against the vehicle's steel, the lack of noise in the vehicle seemed to stretch time as radio silence was held. A necessary precaution as they rushed forward that seemed to make the mood that much more ominous. At least that was the intent until an unexpected noise broke the silence.
A lovely and meek voice came upon their ears as it hummed an odd tune most wouldn't recognize. Kaiser and his gunner Belle did, it was an old war song. Furthermore, he even recognized the voice despite never speaking to its owner. It was cadet Luna Bellamy. The RO for Sokolov's vehicle. With haste, Kaiser radioed Sokolov to inform him of the accidental breach in silence.
"Nice tune" he commented in a direct line to Sokolov. He heard Sokolov apologize briefly for the situation before a high-pitched screech came across forcing him to wince at his headset.
"Christ!" shouted Virtanen's voice into the radio, clearly upset at the startled girl screaming from embarrassment into the mic and therefore each commander's ear. Each commander was most likely content to let the girl finish her pleasant tune until then.
"Sokolov make sure you maintain silence and please don't let her ever make that sound again," advised Kaiser.
"Apologies," said Sokolov with a fervently apologizing Luna in the background.
It was doubtful Pravda would be intercepting or decrypting their radio transmissions so soon and they were making good pace to their first area of operations.
Unfortunately, Pravda had taken to new strategies with a new year and its new vice commander. Pravda had indeed intercepted the latter half of the conversation. Having brought a BT-7 light tank for scouting as opposed to their usually strict heavy and medium tank loadout, this vehicle had pushed far ahead of the others. By chance, they had happened upon the radio transmissions and roughly guessed the movements of their enemy.
Luckily they dismissed the direction of Sokolov's transmission as improbable. The information of Transcendence's main body was immediately relayed to Pravda's senior leadership, however.
Transcendence reached their area of operations and began to set in. Quickly Virtanen and Kaiser directed their vehicles to provide overlapping fire and seek cover to be hull down. Though their position had hardly any cover the large grass and wild grain proved concealment to the vehicles and their silhouettes. 'Terrible positions for armor if this was an infantry match' critiqued Kaiser internally as they waited.
Reminding himself that they did not have to worry about infantry movements let alone any airpower other than the spectator drones observing from above, Kaiser settled for calming his anticipation. He wanted a battle and Pravda was sure to deliver. The waiting was what always tortured him before a battle.
Kaiser himself was positioned to hold the right flank, covering the southern hill and the expanse of land connecting to the nearby forest. Knight held the left flank and the plains north of the second hill. Virtanen meanwhile held the valley between the two.
Virtanen's team placed one vehicle on each hillside to provide fire into the valley while he sat further back in a command position and relative safety. To his chagrin being the flag tank and safe, took priority over being a skirmisher at the front. Sokolov's squad, without its commander, provided support from the rear, covering the valley's center near Virtanen to provide support should he be flanked or either side request aid.
In summary, the left flank possessed a Panzer IV, Firefly, and T-34-85. These mediums provided average fire and maneuverability should they head into the plains to maneuver.
The right instead held a Tiger, IS-1, and KV-85. The heavys holding the right flank in case Pravda should attempt a flank and a breakthrough from the woods where Sokolov would provide an early warning should that occur. In the center, the 44M TAS and ARL 44 aimed from the hillsides as the Panther, SU-100, and PZ sfl IVc lay centered in the rear for support.
The formation kept even dispersion for the units to flexibly adjust should one side be battered and threatened to break. It was in essence a defense-in-depth and beautifully planned by Kaiser with pride even if he knew its efficacy was questionable with his untrained cadets. Eventually, and as expected, the time came to test it.
Through his binoculars, Kaisers spotted a small formation, totaling three vehicles. "Three enemy vics. T-34 variants. A single 100 and two 75's." He announced. "Heading towards Phase line Gold, most likely a probe or advanced recon unit."
Against his loader's anxious glances and his gunner's nervous foot tapping, as they awaited his order, Kaiser himself held his tongue awaiting instruction. Knowing that if he allowed their enemy to proceed they would fall into a close-quarters ambush where there would be less room for escape than engaging on sight at their distance. In his mind initiative paled against results but it was no longer his show. He had set up the planning, the stage, and every advantage he could for his team. Now he was to play his part as a subordinate.
Silently, Kaiser waited as he stood out his hatch carefully observing the unsuspecting armored column as it slowly passed out of sight. After a moment his loader tugged on his blouse. "S-Sir do you think we can close the hatch or perhaps run the engine some?" asked Laura through shivering teeth.
Kaiser shook his head. "I'm afraid not. I understand your plight yet I'm afraid we can't risk concealment for comfort." Pouting at the lack of sympathy from his monotone voice Laura gave a small humph as all she could do was cross her arms for warmth. Kaiser could tell she was envious of her female teammates' long hair as her short black hair barely covered the nape of her neck from the cold draft.
Seeing the differences in his crew from when they had first formed their team and now made Kaiser feel a smidgeon of pride. There were no complaints or bickering, they knew he had a reason. Laura was the only one truly obstinate to his command at first but she soon became cooperative and freely approached him with concerns. Her growth was of her own volition to his surprise and relief, making his job easier. Perhaps it was why he had become lenient and sympathetic to his crew as they seemed to be the only ones to give him respite, all except Westhoffen that was.
His confidence in their professionalism was bolstered as they grit their teeth and were poised for action. In and outside of their vehicle they all were different. While they would be separated by their age and skill in scholastics, inside of their vehicle they were cohesive and perhaps shockingly, friendly.
Embarrassingly it wasn't obvious at first for Kaiser until he saw their blatant concern for him when he was injured and afterward when he had healed. It was awkward to keep them at an arm's distance in public, especially as they were individuals he could consider trusting other than just Virtanen and Kay. To Kaiser, however, he would not allow close ties to hold himself or anyone else back. Not like before.
Contrarily for all the other crews, it seemed that friendships were based largely on vehicle crews. Virtanen engaged in conversation with peers and juniors like Knight while O'Diveley and Sokolov would the centers of attention with their antics. The thoughts of the sharp contrast clouded Kaiser's mind as he absentmindedly watched the steadily approaching enemy.
Banishing his thoughts of negativity and recent observations from his mind, Kaiser reached into an empty compartment grabbing a small wrapped package, wondering what Virtanen must have been deliberating to hold his fire for so long. Perhaps the pressure had gotten to him?. Kaiser opened the bag and revealed a set of hand warmers. Activating one he placed it on Laura's neck. With a shriek of surprise from the sudden heat, she turned with a frown. Before she could tell him off the reverberations of explosions resounded from the north. Kaiser passed out the warmers as Virtanen finally relayed orders.
"Enemy contact initiated- enemy casualties one T-34-75, remaining two in retreat via route of advancement." Kaiser held the headset close to his ear as he wrote the information down and relayed the same information to Natalya and Valerya directing them to prepare to engage the retreating enemy.
As informed, the surviving T-34 variants rounded the hillside in an open view of Kaiser and his team. Patiently they waited for their targets to reach the center of their field of fire. On his order, they unleashed a volley destroying a 75mm variant. A second volley destroyed both tracks on the 100mm variant. And a final third volley sent a white flag straight up.
"Excellent," thought Kaiser as his crew cheered the kills. The match was still in its first hour with Transcendence holding a strategic position and having eliminated a fifth of their enemy's units. Though not significant in itself it still bolstered the cadet's faith in themselves.
Seeing that there was no further activity Kaiser sought to initiate the second phase of his plan. He would follow orders as his position required but it was his plan they were using after all. "Katya prepare to depart" he advised. His RO nodded in affirmation and prepared herself. Kaiser radioed Natalya. "Sergeant Prokov, Prepare the flanking maneuver, ensure you have Lt. Frost with you, she is the most competent of Knight's detachment."
"Yes, Sir" came the quick reply. The IS-1 heavy tank to his left lurched to life and began moving north. Once it had departed Kaiser exited his hatch jumping to the ground. As he landed he turned to Katya, offering her a hand down. The shorter girl grasped it and dismounted the large vehicle with far more care than he.
Laura, who was now peering out of the commander's hatch, handed him a bulky yet portable radio system. "You're in charge in my absence. Ensure that no harm comes to Rosa" Instructed Kaiser
Laura saluted Kaiser, letting it falter for a moment at his order. "Rosa?" she asked.
"Short for Barbarossa. We named our rifles in InfanterieKampf and I thought it fitting given the current circumstances." He explained. "I'll hear your complaints later for not taking all of your opinions on the matter. As an apology, I may even allow you to decorate her."
Kaiser departed with Katya in tow not waiting for a response, Laura watching as they slipped into the darkness. 'Rosa huh?' she pondered over the simple name as she patted the steel behemoth before shivering and shutting the hatch behind her.
Kaiser comfortably maneuvered cautiously and quietly through the forest taking time for Katya who was having trouble keeping up as she trotted behind him. As he paused for her to close the distance he felt an odd sensation at leaving his vehicle. Despite the faith in his crew he had to remind himself it was alright to leave 'Rosa' in their hands.
'Laura will have time in between reloads to assess the situation. Belle and Westhoffen will be preoccupied with firing and shooting. they should be fine' he reassured himself. The unsteady confidence he held in his crew left him able to experiment with just how much he could do inside this sport and outside that steel box, they all had grown accustomed to.
Katya finally caught up to Kaiser and panted heavily. Her hot breath causing large amounts of mist to dissipate in the cool winter air. "Haa-Haa- Sir - How are you- HAA- not out-of breath?" She asked attempting to compose herself.
Kaiser continued moving albeit at a slower pace for his struggling peer. "Years of practice and conditioning." He commented blandly, watching her forcefully steady her breath and follow.
Seeing she wished to speak but was struggling to, Kaiser carried the conversation a bit longer. "To be truthful I miss InfanterieKampf and am starting to notice how my physical health may be changing along with my extracurricular. I am still physically fit yet compared to previous feats from prior years." He turned and gestured at his forehead showing he was indeed breaking a sweat and allowing a heavy breath out. "I am worried I may have fallen below my own standards".
Despite her still unsteady breathing, Katya pursued the topic wishing to focus on anything besides her struggling pace. "You've said that you were once a part of the infantry team at your old schools, junior and high school, correct?"
Kaiser gave a short "yes" as he kept his eyes focused ahead for any signs of movement. Katya pouted at the lack of response. Sparing a glance back and noticing her frown he gave a more appropriate response. "All three years of middle school and the first two of high school, until I was given the opportunity to attend Transcendence."
"Were you adept at it?" she asked curiously. Kaiser let a small snicker escape in return. "I did have a few feat's under my belt"
Katya chuckled embarrassedly at the obvious point "I suppose that is rather self-explanatory, after all, I don't think just anyone would be chosen as the vice commander for a new school ship. You're good at everything huh?" She laughed.
It was the faintest movement in the ever dimming light, but Kaiser shook his head, it was almost a twitch. "No Katya, I don't think that statement could be any more false."
Surprised at his modesty and forlorn tone, Katya failed to notice her footing loosen. Tripping over a concealed depression in the foliage, she fell forward with a sharp gasp. Kaiser caught her by one arm and pulled her up with ease. "Good?" He asked. The low light did little to hide his concerned expression catching her off guard and leaving her unable to speak.
"Nothing? Then ill assume you're okay." They returned to their pace, a short stint of quiet settled before Katya sought to return to their prior topic.
"Um, how did you like it?" she asked.
"I'll assume you mean my InfanterieKampf and not holding onto you" He jested. As she fumbled over refuting his claim Kaiser snickered once more. He felt nearly compelled to tease his subordinate with how shy she was despite having spent more time around him than most.
"It was my calling as some would say. However, some incidents occurred and I was given a timely offer" Kaiser left off ambiguously. His pace had slowed down as they neared the destination and he thought over Katya's question. Watching her commander from behind Katya carefully selected her next words.
Hands fiddling behind her back, she tried to pursue the subject further. After all knowing something about her leader no one else had sounded nice in an intimate, friendly way. So perhaps against what was common logic to others, Katya dared to tread the verbal minefield. It favored her that she felt Kaiser seemed to be more lenient to her as one would be to a younger sister, even if he hadn't realized it himself.
"S-So how was it? Did you partake in it for the fun?" she asked in a voice that felt a little too innocent even for herself. As expected she got no immediate reply, instead, a silent minute passed until Kaiser halted their trek for a brief moment.
Looking around before checking his map in the darkness he answered. "I was the leader in middle school my final year and vice commander in my first year of high school before becoming the commander my second year," he answered.
Katya was surprised. She had heard that the Male dominant sport was rather taxing physically and demanding in many others. From what she vaguely knew, only truly devoted individuals ever really ascended the ranking structure. To hear he had made such strides, especially in the early years of his high school career was nothing short of impressive to her.
"Wow, I have to admit sir even from the rumors about you and being a part of your personal crew, I have to admit I'm astounded". Her voice was meek as ever with a tinge of adoration, her mind, however, was ecstatic at the revelation. It begged her to brag to someone about what she now knew. 'I need to tell someone about this!' her inner self cheered.
Quieting her inner thoughts she pressed a little harder, having grown tired of the same darkening scenery surrounding them as she obediently followed her commander out into the combat zone. "So... what made you choose to come here?"
Kaiser's head turned back for a moment. Katya caught the glimpse of his scrutinizing eyes glancing over her in the moonlight. She felt herself choke up, realizing he hadn't been fooled by her curious act and had only been entertaining her. Watching him from behind she saw him glance up to the sky. Although the moon was still faint, its corners were beginning to dye themselves red. The expected blood moon was finally arriving and soon. Finally prying her eyes from the view she was met with Kaiser's intense eyes boring down at her. A moment turned to two, then to three, before she began to squirm.
"Aren't you cold in your skirt?" he asked pointing at her legs. His question was no more than a diversion from the topic yet successfully distracted Katya who let out a small "eep" and crossed her legs.
"W-well it's a bit breezy but it's bearable," she stuttered, embarrassed at the thought he was staring at her legs.
Kaiser shook his head. "I'll never understand why the females nearly unanimously voted for skirts instead of trousers".
"Eh? Other schools wear them and besides, they give off a certain charm don't you think?" she defended, having forgotten all about her prior embarrassment. Kaiser didn't argue, instead, dropping to a knee and pulling Katya with him.
Her shout of surprise was cut short by his hand. As she stared shocked at his face, Katya noticed He was staring into the distance.
"Smell that?" asked Kaiser, removing his hand. Katya took a few sniffs of the cool night air.
"Gas?" she whispered.
Kaiser shook his head. "Diesel, and quite a bit of it. Russian vehicles run off it and seeing as the winds blowing southwest tonight they're just northeast of us. Pravda's in the area and mounting an attack. We'll stage here for the elevation advantage and assist Sokolov by giving him orders to shift positions by radio."
Katya nodded despite this being the first she ever heard of the plan, laid prone, and took a set of binoculars out as Kaiser unstrapped the radio on his back laying it next to him. As he prepped the machine he heard a sniffle in the quiet night. He noticed Katya shivering as she lay on the cold earth as the occasional breeze swept past.
Although she had defended them a moment prior, her tights and skirt she was clearly suffering in the thin tights and skirt she wore. To her credit, she seemed willing to endure it as she lay unmoving from her position. Her shivering lessened as a warmth settled on her legs. Glancing back she saw Kaiser had removed his blouse and covered her legs with it.
"I-I'm fine, sir!" she insisted trying to return the article of clothing.
"Take what you can Katya. We will most likely be here for a while." he insisted as he fiddled with the radio. Quietly she relented as he appeared unfazed without it even as his only warm clothing was a new red scarf. Eyeing the new accessory, Katya turned back to her binoculars, grinning behind them. Her belief was reaffirmed that he didn't even know how considerate he was to her although she wasn't sure how to feel being treated as a little sister she sighed resignedly.
With their early success and the impromptu operation of theirs, the adversity of their foe had slipped all but Kaiser and Virtanen's minds. The peace and serenity of the early night would soon be broken on an unexpected front.
-End Chapter-