Authors Thought:
Hello dear readers, Happy Easter! Hope all of you are enjoying it with your family and friends with hopefully no restriction unlike years past.
Really glad to get this chapter out to you all as it's been a long build up that is only going to be adding more trials on our girls, with the next chapter I dying to get done.
That's it from me, enjoy the rest of your day and thank you for coming by to read, your contuine support is absolutely stunning for this what if series that never ceases to amaze for this story that is going way beyond my original plans.
Till Next Authors Thought, be well and be safe.
The night and clouldless sky hung over the school carrier Akagi, the residents of the carrier mostly resting in their beds as another beautiful day out on the sea was over. The only ones out on the streets or working at this hour were the police and the Akagi ship maintenance crews, working tiresslely to keep everything aboard running a peak efficiency, their work mostly never seen from its residents, yet was always greeted warmly by them with warm meals and snacks as a small thank you forr thier labor and service.
While their hard work was going unseen, another worker was having their work go unnoticed, though their work was not on keeping something complex as the carrier itself running smoothly. Instead, they were working on how to keep their Sensha-do team running effectively, even as all of their companions were resting in their dorms, this young lady would continue her work to make sure the flame of their dream for the top kept burning brightly.
A soft yawn escape Nishi's lips, while at the same time leaning back against the office chair to give her back a much-needed stretch. Next, she raise her arms above her head, crossing them over to give them a much-needed stretch as well from the tiring work set before her. As Nishi's yawn came to an end, she open her eyes to look down at the desk in front of her, which was covered from end to end by neatly piled papers.
That battle between Kuromorimine and BC Freedom was intense
Nishi thought, as she had been replaying the match in her head that she had watched earlier that day. Seeing the mighty Panzers for Kuromorimine be pushed to the edge was gut-wrenching for Nishi at least, as she come to have great respect for Erika and knew from experience how difficult it was to take over a team suddenly. Yet Nishi's fears were dashed, as Erika and her remaining members snatch victory from defeat, much to the enjoyment of the Chi-Ha-Tan girls.
Now Nishi was going over her notes of the match, in the office that once belong to her, but was no longer the case, as she wasn't the commander anymore.
Wanting to take a little break from her note reading, Nishi turn her eyes to look around said office, which was located in their academy's Sensha-do club. It was reserved for the commander of the club to use solely, to which Nishi had been using it since last summer when their team fell apart and she was thrusted into the commander position to keep their club from completely falling into disarray after their upperclassmen quit.
Now, this room was Miho's, but sadly she wasn't here to use it and lead the team. The more important part though was she wasn't here with her tankery family who miss her dearly. That very sentiment was shared by every girl's mind in the club from tank commanders down to the bow gunners, and even the mechanics. With Miho's absence making Nishi, just as she had done before, take over and try to keep the team focused on the job at hand.
Seems like a lifetime ago when I come into this very office to talk with my upperclassmen Ako as a first-year. She always made time for me, I miss her…
Nishi's thoughts turn to her former commander last year, Ako Furusawa, the first girl to ever attempt to change Chi-Ha-Tan's culture. Yet, was met by resistance by the second years, who challenge her every decision. Through it all though, Nishi became Ako's shadow, following her around after school and in the club, trying to learn as much as she could from the modernist ideals of how tankery should be or how Ako had thought they should be.
However, Nishi also learn the reason why a change wasn't big in Chi-Ha-Tan Sensha-do culture, which dated back to the end of World War 2, to which Ako one day laid out to Nishi the reason for this.
Somewhere around the mid 1950's when Sensha-do was a novel idea gaining favor with the government as there was a need to bring up national depression through means of a sport and replace their current national sport in Yumi no michi, or way of the bow, which work in the same way of team battles with girls using bows on horseback or on foot. It had been a very popular sport since the Edo period and had carried on till the end of the war, where it was soon to meet its replacement.
The first step in the Chi-Ha-Tan culture build, was by Handa Sukejuro, who was a former Imperial Officer who survived the war, lobbying to control the rebuilt Akagi carrier that was slated to be one first in line being constructed for their carrier academies, along with a small population to live on the carrier as well. His request was granted because of his having friends in high places of the new Japanese government. The former officer, built his academy's culture to resemble the imperial army of old, though with a lighter touch. With strict adherence to duty, discipline, and academics.
Though it seem rough for new students to grasp, it was something that didn't take long to conform to, due to who these students were. As Chi-Ha-Tan was the first to practice the adoption program for orphan girls, who were given for the first time warm beds and food, making them extremely loyal to their new home, who was looking to give them a better life than the one they had been handed by cruel fate.
This culture was brought down to how the Sensha-do team would conduct their training and would be their team spirit. Making the girls, with their light Japanese tanks, believe in the mass charge, showing no fear to enemy. Getting in close to fight the foe like the Imperial soldiers of old. This tactic had its merit's in the early era of Sensha-do as teams were trying to figure out how to employ their tanks that were all of the early war year design from all the major nations, making Chi-Ha-Tan a powerhouse due to their pioneers of the club having the upper hand due to their unbridle want to get in the fight.
Yet time is the greatest enemy of all, as they say
Nishi thought, as she remember the rest of her clubs' past.
As Sensha-do became immensely popular as the years went out from its initial trial run, bigger budgets were introduced and teams built better tanks or purchase them from nations who were looking to get rid of World War 2 tanks that had become obsolete in modern warfare. Meaning Chi-Ha-Tan was being left behind in terms of firepower and tactics, as the girls through the years became very traditionalist and would not abandon or upgrade their force from the tanks that once serve their country and made them unstoppable early on.
The rest, they say, is history.
Chi-Ha-Tan quickly fell out of the top four, their mass charges that were once to be feared were just a joke all teams around the league had a laugh at. Every new Chi-Ha-Tan commander promise their tactics would one day see them back to their glory, while berating any who spoke against their club's culture which was in turn in their eyes was an attack on the long-cherished history of the club itself.
Years and years without progression…
Till Ako came along, with her third years who wanted to change things, to which Nishi took to her teachings quickly wanting to be a part of this change. Yet this butted heads with their second years and their leader Mizuko, who fought for her traditionist values to the very end.
"Then Saunders humiliated us and broke our team…then Miho comes along and shows us the light like something out of a story," Nishi said quietly to herself, causing her to chuckle a little.
Thinking of Miho, only made Nishi miss her more. Outside of a tank, Miho seem like nothing but a normal girl, liking cute things and sweets. Yet the minute she stood tall in her commanders cupola, it was almost a like a switch was turned on, her personality nothing but fierce and determined. No fear of screaming shells and machine-gun fire all around her, only was that predator-like focus in her eyes, even making Nishi shiver seeing it in practice at times.
However, when the cannons had gone quiet, Miho was back to her sweet self. Checking on everyone, fussing over small scratches or wounds, praising every member of the crew for their great job. Her photographic memory allow her to know every face, every name, and every story. Even Nishi had a hard time remembering every bow gunner or loader much to her regret, yet Miho would always call them out. It was something as simple as knowing who they were, that gave the girls of Chi-Ha-Tan a big morale boost, to fight to the bitter end for their commander, to always have Miho's back, and make sure the world knew her Sensha-do style.
Now my job is to keep us on track for this battle with Pravda, so need to stop daydreaming
Nishi thought, making sure her reading glasses were adjusted back on her face, then decided to switch her studying from the day's match and focus on her team while grabbing the nearest report from their Chief Mechanic Himi. It was a mechanical report on their newest tank to the roster in the Panther D, the early model version of the Panther the Germans employ, but not without suffering significant problems of transmission and gearbox issues, not to mention a slow turret traverse speed.
However its heavy sloped armor and high-velocity gun made up for that in the end. Add on the magic touch Himi and her junior mechanics were giving it, the Panther was more than ready for the match field, the only problem was who they were going to ask to crew it. Miho was the obvious choice, since her Tiger 1 was a no go for the next match at the moment, but that was still up in the air till she got back. In the meantime, Nishi had made plans to put the Panther through a training course for tomorrow's practice where she have some of their elite crews take it out for a spin, in case Miho wanted someone else to crew it.
"Then, we need to go over company drills again," Nishi said, putting the report down, while grabbing their roster sheet. "We're going to be fielding a total of twenty-three tanks in the next match, can't imagine how we're supposed to coordinate that large of a force effectively, fifteen was a handful already. Hmm, will put Voltigeur platoon…"
Soon Nishi got to work, her mind caring little for the tiredness she felt. All she care about was doing her part that was expected of being second in command. Making sure to keep the team focus on the match and more importantly the challenge place in front of them. They had sacrificed so much to get here, push their bodies to the limit all for a dream, yet a dream for the impossible was what made their journey a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Which Nishi would not let slip through their grasp for even a moment.
It wasn't long before Nishi was burning the midnight oil, which she didn't realize till her phone alarm went off, a reminder she had set for herself so she didn't stay out too late. Quickly she gather the reports back into a neat pile, so she could get right back to work tomorrow. Next, she made sure to lock up their Sensha-do building, then made her long walk back to her dorm room, desperately wanting to flop down on the bed to catch some sleep that she more than deserve.
"Oh great, we have a pop quiz in psychology I forgot to study for," Nishi groaned, as she came into sight of her dorm, while rubbing her shoulders from the cold, which was typical for the carrier out on the night sea.
As she got close to the entrance to the dorm, was when she noticed someone sitting on the top of the small steps leading up to it, yet couldn't make out who it was from a distance. Making Nishi curious about who would be out so late, especially knowing there was a dorm master who constantly patrol inside and outside of the building to make sure none of the girls were sneaking around.
"Maybe it's Hosomi or Ikeda or Tamada. Probably worried about me returning so late," Nishi assured herself with a chuckle, knowing her friends worry for her.
Then as she came to the bottom of the steps, with a smile and was about to speak to whoever was waiting for her…
That was when the nightmare began…
"Well hello…pamper girl," a voice spoke from the figure sitting down, its tone playful and menacing at the same time.
A voice Nishi knew well, that sent a shiver up her spine like no other. Her breath became short, her legs began to wobble, and her heart began to pound. Nishi had faced the screaming of shells on the battlefield, yet this voice caused her more fear than anything else, because of who it belonged to. Nishi's personal tormentor last year when she was a first-year, the very girl who never like her since the day they met, and the very girl who lived by the warrior code that Nishi had shy her team away from.
It didn't take a genius to know what she was here for now.
Nishi's eyes turn up, just in time to see the very girl who was of above-average height, with light skin color. Her eyes were a rich yellow and her hair jet black with long bangs flowing down her back, while wearing the Chi-Ha-Tan Academy school uniform with long sleeve light brown jacket, red skirt, black socks, and black shoes
"Miss Nonaka?" Nishi tremble out.
Which made that playful smirk grow wider on Mizuko's face, seeing her mere presence was causing Nishi to almost have a mental breakdown, which gave the third-year immense pleasure to see her junior was still the same scared little girl she remember a year ago. With slow steps, Mizuko descended the steps to Nishi, all the while with her wicked smile never leaving her face.
"Hey, hey, don't need to be so formal. We use to be teammates at one time, so let's keep things at a first name basis, yea?" Mizuko said, having completed her descent and was standing toe to toe with Nishi.
"That's improper of me," Nishi said, looking away from those piercing yellow eyes.
Making Mizuko huff with amusement. "Who cares about properness, we fought in tanks together…making us tankery sisters I believe…or did anyway."
"Still…Why are you here?" Nishi ask, her voice trying to find its confidence.
"Oh," Mizuko said, cocking her head to side. "Am I not allowed to check on my junior? See how she is doing and all? Make sure she eating properly and taking care of herself?"
"Uh…well, I guess I can understand…," Nishi flailed with her words.
"My, my, don't be so nervous Nishi, you're a tanker, need to stand up tall in the face on any danger," Mizuko said, with a hint of venom in her voice.
Nishi grimaced at the tone. "I know…If there is nothing else, I need to get to my dorm room before the Dorm master spots us."
Then, with quick steps, Nishi try to make her way past Mizuko, wanting to be anywhere but at that present place. Her mind becoming muddled, as the memories of Mizuko berating her work their way to the surface. While also there was a definite deviousness to the former sub-commanders sudden appearance, since the two hadn't spoken since last year, which didn't end on good terms as well.
Nishi's apprehensive nature prove right, as just as she was passing Mizuko, the older girl shot a hand out and grab Nishi's arm stopping her in place. Nishi let out a small yelp, but was even more stun as Mizuko pull her towards herself. Making both girls stand toe to toe once more, as Mizuko's face held nothing but contempt for her junior.
"Let me go, you're hurting me," Nishi voiced out timidly.
"Tch, look at you, acting the brave little commander, but still at heart you're that meek little girl I met last year. I had thought with your wins you have a little bit of a spine, guess I was wrong," Mizuko said with annoyance.
"I'm not the same girl as before, I just don't like violence," Nishi said, squirming to get out of the hold on her arm.
"True, you like to hide behind someone to take the shots for you, huh? Just like Ako, playing as your protective shield, just so she could hide what a weak will girl you really are," Mizuko taunted.
"I'm not weak-willed," Nishi said with her voice rising, now being a little more forceful in her attempts of getting free.
"Oh, but you are, and even worse you're a traitor," Mizuko said, letting go of Nishi who put some space between them, then Mizuko spoke again with her arms crossed. "Just like this team, a team of traitors. Stepping over what our club once was, all because you wanted to win that desperately, you've turned your back on the code."
Nishi rub her arm that had been grabbed, then turn back to Mizuko. "How can you say that? We wanted to win, so our club could fight on. If we had loss in the qualifier, who knows how we be able to recover after that humiliation last year."
"You would have lost, but you would have kept in line with the code, the warriors code that has guided our club since its founding. The code that we burn into our hearts even when we leave this academy, for it is what makes us girls of Chi-Ha-Tan who we are…till you and that damn outsider destroy our long treasured tradition," Mizuko said, her voice straining to say every word.
"Miho? You can't blame her, if not for her we never would have found our way," Nishi argued.
"So, you're saying it's all because of her leadership…not your own merit, not by your own strength did you find the will to fight. What a pathetic lie you have been living with Nishi, to think you came to me last year after that loss to Saunders with such passion in your eyes, yet now you look like nothing but puppy without a master," Mizuko lectured, as she shook her head.
The stinging words made Nishi bristle, even though there was some truth to them. As Nishi, who loathed to let her secret worries come to the surface, had a deep fear of truly leading the club without Miho. Even with all the changes to the club and its culture, the strength each girl found, Nishi was scared to death of having to take the reins truly. After the battering at the hands of Kola High in the practice match, her confidence had taken a major hit, but had been raised some by the actions of Nishi herself in the past 2 matches.
Yet that fear of letting her team down, if they truly had to rely on her for victory was there for Nishi and would not leave her mind.
And again, Mizuko, Nishi's tormentor last year, could see this flaw that made Nishi grimace to know her upperclassmen could read her like a book.
Nishi though, would not admit that even now, for her own sake. "Miho has allowed me to learn more about what it takes to be a leader. Yet even now, I have a long way to go, but what's most important is that we are together as a team. Every one of us helps achieve this victory, not a code, but a team that gives everything for each other."
Once Nishi's speech was over, she stared hard at Mizuko, hoping this was enough to make her back down.
That would not be the case, as Mizuko just let her devilish smirk spread across her face, as her yellow eyes bore into Nishi without batting an eye. Making Nishi feel like her little speech had done more harm than good, as Mizuko continue to stare.
Suddenly Mizuko began to clap her hands together softly, which echoed into the night air a little, then she spoke. "That's good, it's almost like you believe what you are saying."
"I d-," Nishi try to say.
"Do you though? Do you truly believe that you can lead your team? Or are you waiting for that outsider to come back, so you can hide behind her as she does what you cannot?" Mizuko accused.
"Don't call her an outsider, she is the heart of our club now. You can ask Tamada, Hosomi, or Ikeda and they will say the same," Nishi shot back.
Yet that didn't seem to phase Mizuko at the fight her junior had in her, it only seem to make her smirk grow wider, as Mizuko spoke again. "Ah, my favorite girls. You know they use to come to me a lot, wanting my advice about keeping with the code. Tamada especially was most eager of the bunch."
"That isn't the case anymore, they have changed and our all loyalty is to Miho's Sensha-do style," Nishi countered.
"So you think, but I've watched your matches. I see the traces of our code still there, something you and Ako try to stamp out, but couldn't. Sure, you can say this Miho girl succeeded where you failed, but even now it's mixed in. That fighting spirit that made us, that built our team, that saw us fear no enemy. It's there Nishi and all it needs is the right push to see it burn bright in this team again," Mizuko said.
"That will never happen, Mi-," Nishi try to argue.
"Oh, like a broken record, as you again keep relying on your commander to save your skin. Honestly, you probably out of this entire team have not grown a bit, you just hide behind that tough girl mask to keep that weak character of yours out of sight, truly must eat at you every day," Mizuko taunted.
"That isn't true, I've gro-," Nishi once more try to fight, though her voice was leaving her.
"I guess that's why you made that promise to me, huh?" Mizuko said, knowing this was the nail in the coffin.
Nishi knew exactly what Mizuko was talking about, making her body begin to tremble.
"Oh, cat got your tongue now. I know you know what I'm talking about, that promise you made to me that must have slipped your mind after that first victory. Honestly, I figure you weren't good for it, theirs's no way you want to honor it, because, at the end of the day, you were never truly going to accomplish anything by your own strength," Mizuko said with a bored look.
"Stop…I was…I wanted…I was…," Nishi began to mumble out.
"You never had a right to lead in the first place, it always should have been Tamada in the end. She embodies the warrior code, to never back down, to press forward, and-," Mizuko began to say.
"And get blown away," Nishi voiced out, with what little courage she found within herself.
For a moment, nothing but silence passed between the two girls. They just stare at one another, their eyes never blinking, their bodies still, and their breathing shallow. As Nishi had taken a shot at the code of old their club once followed, to none other than its greatest champion in Mizuko who defended it last year and even now zealously.
Then before Nishi could react, Mizuko charge her down. Leaving Nishi no chance to defend herself, as Mizuko grab both sides of Nishi's face, bringing it close to her own. Those yellow eyes seem to be glowing in the night to Nishi, holding all the rage behind them that Mizuko had been holding onto since last year. Causing Nishi to tense up, her arms practically frozen at her sides, making no attempt to dislodge herself from her upperclassmen who was going to rip into her like she did last year.
"You think that's all it is! A joke! You laugh at it because it didn't produce wins! Do you know how insulting that is to every girl who followed it since the founding of our club, to all who fought with it, to all of them that believe in it! You spit on their memory with your words! You care nothing for this club's tradition! Your just some selfish little pamper girl who wanted to play tanker because you thought it look cool! You never believe in it, you just wanted something that look good on your resume when you graduated one day!" Mizuko lecture, her voice filled with unbridled anger.
"No…no, I never meant for that. I just…I ju-," Nishi try to explain.
"Are you serious!? You have the gall to say that, but don't have the fucking spine to defend it! Are you truly a tanker?! No…you belong back on the mainland, back to your modeling, that's all your good for just showing off that body of yours," Mizuko said with venom and rage.
Nishi's felt the fight go completely out of her, making Mizuko smirk in satisfaction seeing Nishi's face drop into despair, knowing she had gotten what she wanted out of her. Slowly Mizuko pull her hands back off Nishi's face, while giving her junior some room.
"Nishi, you have a promise to fulfill," Mizuko said, wanting her plan to fully take flight.
I want us to fight together once more! I'll make it happen, I promise….
These words, the very words Nishi spoke last year, a promise that she had kept secret, and now was coming to the light again as much as she had tried to bury it in the shadows.
Yet still, there was some resistance in Nishi, knowing what this promise would bring down on her team. "I…I can't go through with that."
"You will, if you want your little secret not to be revealed to your team about little Miss Tigress leaving the carrier," Mizuko said coolly.
The blood in Nishi's face drain at the statement, then she mentally curse herself for her reaction, knowing that all but confirmed it to Mizuko that Miho left the carrier. However, Nishi was going to fight back as best she could.
"I don't know what you're talking about, Miho is resting at the hospital," Nishi said quietly.
"Oh, going to play innocent are we?" Mizuko said, then reach into her skirt pocket to reveal a note. The lamppost nearby produce enough light for Nishi to make out what was written on the note, it was Miho's handwriting for sure.
"How…how did you get that?" Nishi said astonishingly.
"Doesn't matter, what does matter is I know she left. While you been lying to your team about it, for shame, it's like you don't trust them or something," Mizuko said, her sly smile spreading across her face.
"I had my reasons, we wer-," Nishi frantically try to argue.
"Reasons? Is that how your team will see it? Not to mention this note could be construed as Miss Tigress having to leave the team because of all the family drama going with her," Mizuko said.
"No one is going to misunderstand that," Nishi fought back.
"Oh, do you really wanna take that risk? I mean her handwriting isn't hard to copy when I look at it and it's not like I'm asking much. I just want you to make good on your promise to me," Mizuko stated.
Nishi felt she couldn't breathe anymore, her legs gave way as she slowly slid down to her knees, as everything felt like it was falling apart around her. As her own past was coming back to bite her, a promise she had made in haste because she was scared of taking the leadership role. A choice made before the season started that not even her friends knew about, much to Nishi's shame that she had kept things from them.
Knowing there was nothing else she could do, Nishi spoke. "I will honor my promise to you, but only with some minor conditions added."
"Oh, do tell," Mizuko said with glee in her voice.
Nishi laid them out.
Mizuko agreed.
"Well now, this has been fun," Mizuko said stretching her neck side to side. "I'll be seeing you tomorrow, have a good night."
Nishi said nothing, but just watch the back of Mizuko till she was out of sight. It was only then, did Nishi have to cover her face, as tears began to trickle out. As she had just betrayed her team, her tankery family, all for a foolish promise made in haste and a decision she had all but try to forget. Yet it had been made and now she would pay for it.
I'm so sorry Miho…I ask so much of you since the day you came to our club and now…now I have only made your job harder…forgive me...forgive me…
As Nishi's thoughts rattle around her frantic mind, she hug herself as tears continue to roll off her face and onto the ground. As the Tigers of Chi-Ha-Tan could no longer escape their past, but would have to face it head-on if their new era was truly to be theirs. Though that was only if they could survive the coming storm that had been made because of a promise.
XxxX
The Following Day…
A spectacular sunny day was passing over the Oarai School carrier the Zuikaku. The carrier was rolling slowly over the seas, having just been given its fresh supplies from a MEXT Freighter, which were quickly making its way throughout the community, along with mail from the mainland and packages. The very people aboard had an equally sunny disposition, as they knew their carrier was returning back to port for a planned celebration for their Sensha-do team, to commemorate all their success in their run in the national tournament, from qualifying to making it past the first round.
Though, they were obviously saddened that their cinderella story was over, the community onboard and fans on the mainland were already raring to see their girls go into action again when the summer matches came up. As residents and fans alike could proudly support their Sensha-do club, which had been absent for over 20 years. Their history was not something that was lauded with victory flags or prestige, for even when they did have a team, it was always average, never breaking into the top 4. While also, unlike most schools that had a certain nation's tank they prefer to use, Oarai had been a mixed bag of odd tanks from major nations that fought.
The memories of these past battles, burn into mostly the elderly aboard the carrier who could tell stories of some of Oarai's lost Sensha-do history for hours. While the younger generation were hoping now that this current era of Sensha-do for the odd school, could be written, as it already had its glory unveiled to the rest of the league and with only more to look forward to for the fans of the club, as there was almost a guarantee feeling that Oarai would one day raise the victory flag.
A dream…
That was going to be crushed by the end of the school year, unbeknownst to residents aboard and their very students…
As this year's Sensha-do team had been fighting not for prestige, but for the very survival of their home and they had failed, though this failure was still being kept in secret by those in power…
If only for the glimmer of hope that still was there for them to grasp…
I need to grasp this hope, even if everyone hates me in the end, for Yukari, Hana, Saori, Azusa, Erwin, Noriko, and all the girls on our team…all the girls who call this home…all the families who lived here for generations, that is my wish and I'll do all I can to make it happen…all I can…
These thoughts past through the mind of Anzu, student council president of Oarai Girls Academy. Currently, she was standing up, looking out the large windows of her office that was located on the third story of the administrative building for the academy. Its height allow her to look over almost the entire school and its surrounding area, a sight Anzu had been used to looking at since she took over the position last year. Many of times she stare out at the shining sea in the distance, a calming sight after long hours of paperwork with her committee members.
Yet, Anzu felt nothing but emptiness looking to the sight below her or in the distance. As the carrier itself was in danger of being closed down by MEXT. Their director of operations, Renta Tsuji, had been the one to inform them of this, yet gave them a deal at Anzu's request, that if Oarai won the Sensha-do national tournament, they could be kept open due to national backlash over the champions being shut down.
Obviously, that hadn't happened with Oarai's loss to Chi-Ha-Tan, to which Anzu had been expecting Renta to hand down the paperwork for the closure of their school and procedures to follow as the school year wraps up.
Instead, he had informed Anzu about a new deal that could be struck to keep their school open, a small hope he was going to give them. Yet the task laid before Anzu to make it happen was a little harder than just winning Sensha-do matches in her mind at least. Knowing there would be some fight from the other party if Anzu went ahead with this deal.
Suddenly, Anzu's wandering remembrance was put on hold, as Momo had finished telling their soon-to-be partner in this little venture the story of the carrier shutdown.
"That's the predicament we find ourselves in Miss Jun, please accept our apologies for asking for your help so late on," Momo said, standing by Anzu's large mahogany desk, with her arms clasped behind our back.
Yuzu was on the other side of the desk, holding a tablet to her chest, with an equally apologetic look. "Please accept our request, Miss Jun. I know we did a horrible thing keeping this from you, but we had no choice."
Then both girls bow to their Sensha-do Air force captain.
Standing in front of the desk was none other than 39-year-old Jun Nasik herself wearing her blue JSDF Air officer's uniform with her cap under her arm. Her long hair was jet black that was bundled up in a braid, which went well along with her deep reddish eyes. Her face show no signs of real aging, a testament to her strict diet and active living, which gave her some rich tan skin.
The highest-ranking female officer of the 54th Wing Division just stood in stunned silence by the revelation. She at the moment was the only pilot left from her squadron since the defeat to Chi-Ha-Tan. Jun had sent the rest of her squad back to base on the mainland, just as the other squadrons of defeated teams were asked to do since they had to get back to their actual jobs as pilots for their JSDF Air Force. Jun had been just about to leave the carrier as well, but had been called up to the office of the student council and had just been told about their school's shutdown.
"You can't be serious, that's why you push so hard for victory in this tournament?" Jun said in complete wonderment.
"It is, we had no choice. Funding for the school has been dwindling for years because we had no Sensha-do team," Momo commented.
Yuzu nodded at her friend's short explanation. "The school carrier system employed by MEXT, is directly linked with Sensha-do since its founding. When Oarai drop its Sensha-do program 20 years ago because it was too expensive for the school to continue, MEXT began to allocate resources to other carriers who still practice the sport."
"Leading to less maintenance being kept up?" Jun ask.
Anzu finally feeling her need to speak, turn around to walk over to take a seat in her office chair. "Yes, apparently this shutdown was a long time coming. MEXT was looking for a final excuse to close us down from what I've gathered. It all came down to our student populace which is at a little more than two hundred, when we should be hosting over five hundred. Next year we're projected to have half the amount of applicants we are required to have."
"This is too much, I mean, your just kids. You shouldn't have to have this kind of task placed on you, where the hell is the headmaster, this is his problem to deal with," Jun said hotly.
"He has been doing all he can," was all Momo said.
"He's the only reason we're still open. He's been fighting for years with MEXT to keep his carrier afloat without a Sensha-do program which is no easy task, especially with the current director of MEXT, with his health taking a turn for the worse this year. He doesn't even live on the carrier now because his body is too weak and lives back on the mainland, which leaves us to do what we can," Yuzu said, her face dropping to the ground in sadness.
Jun realize she had spoken out of turn. "I'm sorry, I didn't realize that was the case. Though it explains why I've never seen him around, that being said. This is still too much for you girls to shoulder."
"Are you mad that I never told the team about this?" Anzu tested.
Making Jun become perplexed about how to answer, but finally found her words. "In some ways yes, though only because you place so much work on Yukari. The poor girl gave you her heart and soul, along with the rest of the team. They become so tight-knit, it's hard to believe how they're going to handle this."
"Yet, we have hope still that we can keep our juniors together," Momo said, her eyes stalwart.
"How?" Jun ask, though this had nothing to do with her, she had come to love the girls of Oarai like they were family in their short time together, while being a mom herself, Jun felt a great attachment to them and their wellbeing, wanting to do all she could to keep them happy.
"Will need your help with this. The Director of MEXT has given us a new deal to keep our school open," Yuzu spoke up.
"Let me guess, it has to do with Sensha-do," Jun said in an exasperated tone.
Anzu nodded her head. "It does and since we made such a splash in the National tournament, I think will do alright, but we need to get in contact with a certain someone to make this little deal happen."
"This certain little someone is?" Jun ask.
"Miss Nishizumi," Momo said immediately.
"Ah, theirs three of them, four if you count the brat who threw a punch," Jun said in a questioning tone.
"Oh, excuse me. We need to get in contact with Miho Nishizumi," Momo corrected herself.
That made Jun raise an eyebrow. "Well, that's something you can do yourself, just contact the Akagi carrier."
"Yet, she isn't on the Akagi is she, Miss Jun?" Anzu ask, leaning forward in her chair, that knowing smirk plaster all over her face.
"I don't know about that," Jun answered quickly.
"Just like you don't know about your subordinate, Miss Suzume taking an A6M Zero off the Akagi carrier and landing in Nagisa and then have a little incident with a tazer-wielding psycho in Tokyo?" Anzu ask, her smile somehow growing wider.
"I still don't know what you're talking abo-," Jun try to say.
"And to top it all off, you about lost it when she told you that she had Miho herself with her," Anzu finished.
Jun said nothing back for a moment, then spoke. "Again, I don't know what you're talking about."
"Miss Jun, we don't mean to press you, yet we are in the midst of a chance to save our school with your help," Momo pleaded now.
"I unde-," Jun try to reply.
With Yuzu now interrupting. "We know you had a little freak-out over a phone conversation at one of the local diners aboard a couple of days ago. Some students, who happen to be some of our staff on the student council, heard you speak about Miss Suzume who had been questioned by Tokyo police, among other things."
"We piece together the rest from what you talk about," Anzu said, wanting to get things moving along.
Dammit! I thought I was the only one in the diner when that phone call came in. Damn you Aozora for being the reckless little brat you always are and now I have to clean up your mess
Jun thought angrily, thinking back on the conversation she had that day, when the Tokyo police chief had contacted her about one of her pilots getting into an altercation with someone, as was the procedure when handling any military personnel who are dealing with law enforcement, was to contact their commanding officers to let them know what was going on. Though Aozora was innocent, the eccentric pilot had told Jun everything, about taking the Zero off the Akagi to get Miho in contact with her sister and mother.
Every vein in Jun's head had wanted to pop, knowing how much legal trouble Aozora was flirting with if she had been caught with Miho in hand. Yet, after Jun cool her head, she bail Aozora out by not saying anything, while knowing that Aozora would be heading to the Nishizumi estate to get Miho in contact with her mother, with Jun promising some stiff punishment for Aozora after the tournament was over for breaking a lot of rules.
Now everything was coming ahead for Jun.
I think Aozora is a bad influence on me, because now I'm going to be reckless. Some commanding officer I am
Jun thought, while running a hand over her face, then begrudgingly spoke. "Ok, you caught me. My subordinate has Miho Nishizumi with her and is heading for her family estate. Yet what are you going to do about it, because if you mean to blackmail her or anything, I'll be the first in line to stop any of that."
Yuzu blushed at the accusation and waved her hands frantically. "No, no, we wouldn't do that."
"It's an option though," Momo said causally.
"Momo!" Yuzu whine.
"Don't call me Momo!"
"Enough," Anzu said, her voice commanding and strong, shutting down her friends.
Then Anzu focus on Jun now. "I don't plan to do any of that. I've already dirtied myself by placing everything on Yukari's shoulders before and I've never want to play with secrets like this again. Leaving me with one choice."
"That being?" Jun ask, knowing this answer might compel her to act or leave this very room.
"I must appeal to the Nishizumi family's honor. I won't trick or bully Miss Miho, I will speak to her women to women, and I believe we will find an agreement. While also we need to sort out this business of the capture reward from the last match," Anzu said confidently.
Jun close her eyes to take a breath, then open them. She search into Anzu's deep brown eyes for any hint of deviousness, but found only truth, then spoke. "Alright, I believe you. Meaning you call me up here because you need me to transport you to the Nishizumi estate."
Anzu just nodded.
"Alright, I'll arrange a helicopter to be here by the end of the day to take us," Jun said.
Making Yuzu smile for joy, while coming up to Jun. "Thank you! Thank you! You don't know how much this means to us!"
Momo bowed again to Jun, to hide her face that had small tears of joy. "Thank you as well, Miss Jun, you're helping us save our school once again."
The praise and thanks made Jun smile. "It's alright girls, I come to like Oarai. My daughters are all raving about when they are old enough they're going to apply here, so don't want to disappoint them."
"I'm sure they'll make great tankers one day," Anzu said happily.
Thought Jun let out a nervous chuckle. "That be nice, but I hope they don't forget their flying roots."
Then Jun ask the most important question that hadn't been addressed yet. "By the way, what was this deal the MEXT Director placed on you?"
Momo look at Anzu, talking with their eyes about if it was ok to tell her. Eventually, Anzu nodded, knowing Jun was playing a big role, but ask the pilot to keep things on the down-low for now. Then Momo explain the deal the MEXT Director had proposed to keep them open.
When Momo was finished, Jun stood completely baffled, as a thought ran through her mind.
Guess things are only going to get wilder come summer…and you Miss Miho are going to be the key to everything…that's if you agree to this…god, the poor girl isn't going to get a break anytime soon…
As Jun began to make preparations for a meeting with the Tigress herself.
XxxxX
The Chi-Ha-Tan Sensha-do building was in a flurry of activity as the school day had just ended and its members were squaring things away for practice. Many were getting dressed into their tanker uniforms, cracking jokes at one another for the coming practice over who do better, others were going over the schedule while squeezing in a small snack. Some crews were already heading to the tankery garage to begin the process of startup checks on their assigned tanks while going over with the junior mechanics of any issues they had found.
While that was happening, the tank commanders had gathered in their own room. Its members were casually sitting in their seats, talking softly to one another about what today's practice might be like. Their excitement match their own crews, as they were raring to get on the practice field with their tanks for there was no better place to be for them. For they were climbing to heights unseen in their club's history, having been nothing but a bad joke for others to poke fun at over their outdated tactics.
No longer was that the case, as now they were in the semi-final, and only could others stare in awe at their achievements. Their trials had been tough and unrelenting, from having to qualify to get into the tournament, taking down Saunders, and avenging their past, while having to beat Oarai with their mostly first-year rookies. Whatever come, the girls of Chi-Ha-Tan had met it with their burning hearts for their commander's Sensha-do style. For it had given them back their pride to be tankers of Chi-Ha-Tan, that would never waver at any trial before them now.
However, that was the case when said commander was with them. This was not the case, as Miho was gone and her absence was starting to be felt by crews, tank commanders, and even the mechanics. Her bright and inviting presence was what had really glued them together, especially at their darkest, Miho held her head high for them and was their rallying flag when things look to take a turn for the worst.
That wasn't the case now, as unbeknownst to most of the team outside a select few, Miho had left the carrier to see to her family. With no timetable on her return to team, meaning for the select few who knew of this, was testing their nerves to keep lying to their teammates about Miho still being in the hospital.
With a certain someone feeling the absence of her commander more than others.
Damn, it's only been less than a week since Miho left, so why the hell does it feel like a year…if anything I should be more patient…I've waited before…I waited for Tohaku…I waited….I waited….
These sobering thoughts belong to Tamada, who was sitting at her spot in the first row. Trying her best to have avoided these troubling thoughts by going over the shell penetration value charts for the M3 75mm cannon her Sherman Jumbo was to use now, since her 76mm got clip in the last match with damage to the breach that would need fixing that Saunders would take care of, but would not be ready till next match if they won.
Yet even as Tamada did her best to focus on learning about her new cannon's strengths and how to use it from certain distances, her mind began to wonder. Images of Miho play all over her mind, with that warm smile, those angelic laughs, the whining when she was teased, and the lovely look reserved for just Tamada when they were intimate. Then hearing Miho call out Tamada's first name that was her right alone just to add the cherry on top of being lovers.
Now, none of that was happening with Miho gone and it was getting to Tamada slowly. Even if she tried her best to carry on, making Tamada feel fearful of this clinginess that was gripping her. Not because she felt it make her overbearing, but for a reason that walk hand in hand with her past the last time Tamada had let her emotions of a lover being gone cloud her decision-making process.
We all have to pay for our sins….
Tamada remember the words from that nightmare back on the train, a nightmare that had been coming back to her in the past few nights. Tamada's sin that she carried in her heart, that not even her closes friends would know, no one could know. A sin that could not be forgiven that had set her on a path to move on.
"Hey," a voice called out to Tamada.
Shaken from her thoughts Tamada look up to see Nagura and Hamada standing in front of the desk, each with a look of concern for their stalwart tanker.
"Oh, sorry was spacing out," Tamada said, trying to wave their worry off.
"You sure, do you have a stomach ache?" Hamada ask.
Making Tamada look perplexed. "No, why do say that?"
"You were rubbing your stomach when we came up," Nagura answered.
Shit…It's starting to become a bad habit of mine that I need to stop before someone starts reading into it
Tamada thought, then wave her hand at her friends as she lied. "I'm just hungry is all."
"Oh, yea. Forgot about the bottomless stomach of yours," Nagura teased.
"Like your any better Nagura," Tamada shot back with a smile.
"Yea, I saw you wolf down your lunch at top speed today. Then you were brash enough to ask your juniors for some of their food," Hamada said, placing her hands on her hip, with a look of disappointment.
"They offered!" Nagura pleaded.
"More like you sweet talk them, for shame, praying on our sweet juniors like that Nagura," Tamada added to the fun, feeling her heart lift by the teasing of her friend and unit member.
"How did this get turned on me?" Nagura dejectedly said.
Hamada patted her close friend on the shoulder. "You make it too easy sometimes, don't worry, I'll make sure you get seconds come dinnertime."
"Yes please," Nagura instantly said, making her friends chuckle.
"Easy to please," Tamada said in a jovial tone, then spoke again while looking at her platoon members with pride. "It's good to have the band back together."
"Don't have to tell me twice, as proud as I am of the cubs and what they achieve in the match against Oarai, nothing feels better standing shoulder to shoulder with you, company leader," Nagura said happily.
Hamada nodded at her friend's statement. "I concur, nothing is better than being back in the Type 1 Chi-He and I'll admit I've grown a little fond of our newest member in the Sherman Jumbo."
"She's as strong and well armor as the samurai of old, still need a nickname for her, but I'll get to that soon," Tamada boasted of her tank.
"Can't wait to get out on the field though, Miyata is definitely improving more every day, along with the other first years in Shibata and Nakahara too. Tozen Company is truly now the hard hitters of the team," Hamada brag a little, though her belief was strong.
"Hey!" A voice call over the tank commanders room, making the trio turn, along with all the girls in the team to turn to the source.
Standing next to the podium on the raised level, was Miya of Miho's Ghost company. She was a first-year tank commander of the newly acquired Type 5 Na-To. She was of average height, with long black hair, that was tied into a double French braid. That went along well with her blue eyes and her lightly tan skin.
The young girl had a challenging smirk on her face, even if she was facing her upperclassmen as she spoke. "You can't just boast about your unit like that when Ghost Company is the name all teams around the league are fearing now!"
"Why you little," Nagura growl playfully at the brash junior.
"No way!" Chiyoko Uenishi another first-year tank commander spoke up. "You can't take that title, when Iron Kraken platoon attacks from land and sea!"
"Uh, I think we just started an avalanche," Hamada said with a nervous smile.
Her statement prove right as the room divulge into a playful bolstering between tank commanders, swaggering on about how great their fighting unit was.
"You can't deny us Voltigeurs, were the vanguard of the team!" Maita yell her pride.
Though Hosomi was quick to respond, coming over to give Maita a tug on her ear as she spoke. "Maita! Don't egg this on, you're a second year, set a good example for the cubs!"
"I'm sorry, I'm sorry!" Maita said through painful chuckles.
"Well she isn't wrong," Fukuda causally said with a sweet smile on her face.
"See what I mean!" Hosomi said, gesturing to their sweet Fukuda who was becoming quite the ferocious tanker in her own right.
Tamada just lean her elbows on the desk, with her head resting in her hand, watching as the friendly competition was in full swing between all the tank commanders. There was nothing wrong with it, as even if they were a team, each company or platoon had its own honor to uphold in their units. In turn, making them fight harder on the battlefield to make sure this honor was upheld. Which Tamada understood was Miho's subtle way to place the esprit de corps as she described it to Tamada and raise the fighting prowess of each unit.
Miho…Miho…Miho…you can be quite the schemer when you want to be
The happy thought pass through Tamada's mind, thinking of her lover, that even if she were someplace far, the memories of her face could put her at ease sometimes.
"Hey, did you notice Nishi acting weird today?" Hamada ask, as the back and forth continue on in the background.
Which got Tamada's attention. "How do you mean? I didn't see her at lunch."
Hamada turn to Nagura, who nodded than spoke. "I saw her eating lunch in some seclusive spot, like she was trying to hide. Naturally, I went to say hi, but her face was pale and had deep bags under her eye like she hadn't slept all night."
"Maybe she overdid it with handling paperwork for the club?" Tamada said, feeling anxious all of the sudden.
"No, it was something else," Nagura said, her face contorting into a fearful look. "I tried to talk to her and she just excuse herself before I could ask what was wrong."
"Hmm," Tamada said, touching her chin in thought. "Well, after the meeting and before we get into our tanks for practice will talk to her."
Suddenly a knock on the door to the tank commanders room sounded, silencing all the back and forth by all the girls, who quickly made their way to their seats at Tamada's behest. Just as the last girls were getting seated, the door slid open with Nishi herself walking in. Tamada eye her with concern and could see Nagura wasn't exaggerating the ghostly appearance she had described of their second in command.
Nishi walk in, with her usually rich color skin, almost deathly pale. Her eyes were bloodshot and deep bags under her eyes. Nishi's usually beautiful dark-brown hair that has square bangs hanging on the right side, was unkempt, and had long strands sticking up at odd angles. Even her uniform was not properly buttoned up correctly.
Though it seem Nishi pay no mind to her disheveled appearance, making her way to the commanders podium, not even making eye contact with her team, who were all eyeing her with deep concern. Then Nishi stood in front of the podium as she place her hands on the outer edges of the stand, gripping it tightly as if she was trying to hold on for dear life or she might fall.
Yet, even as she was at the podium now, Nishi didn't raise her head, her eyes never met her team. Only silence grip the room now, with every tank commander holding their breath, wondering what was causing this sudden change in behavior from their more upbeat commander.
"Ni…Ni…Nishi?" Fukuda spoke up from her row.
The call from the precious junior, coax Nishi out of her odd state. Slowly her head raise up, her eyes finally locking with her team. Then Nishi took a breath, straightening herself out, holding her head up high, for she needed to speak, even if she wish not to.
"Girls," Nishi started, the strain in her voice not lost to anyone in the room. "I've always tried to do right by this club, especially with what happened last year. My dream…my dream was to see this club rise up again, to emulate the glory of the past…"
No one said a word, all captivated by Nishi's words, feeling she was trying to get something off her chest.
"Though my heart was in it, I was bumbling around, having no tankery experience to speak of. All I had was hope that things would work out…that's all I had…yet Miho…she was the hope that answer my prayers to see our team rise to the heights we now enjoy," Nishi said, each word making her grip the podium tighter.
Tamada had seen enough, rising from her chair slowly and then speak softly to her troubled friend. "Nishi, what's wrong? You can talk to us and will figure this out, just talk to us."
A soft chuckle left Nishi's lips, as her bloodshot eyes turn to Tamada now. "I'm sorry Tamada, but sometimes we have to pay for our sins."
Instant dread spread through every fiber of Tamada's body hearing those words that haunted her own dreams, making her slowly sit back down, shaking slightly with fear.
Nishi took a deep breath a reveal what had to be said and stop putting things off. "Last year, I was afraid to lead, afraid to command, I didn't think I had any right to it. I put on a brave face for all you, because I didn't want to you to fall into despair and leave the club. Yet in the end, I kept my fear of leading to myself. My goal was the preservation of this club for us, but also I had ulterior motives that I never brought to light."
The tension in the room became thicker.
Nishi then spoke again. "I had made a promise to our upperclassmen, who had left the club because of the debacle in that match against Saunders because their leader had been suspended by Headmaster Hidemichi for the first round of this year's tournament."
Suddenly quiet chatter fill the room.
"She can't mean her," Hosomi said.
Kubota shook her head slowly. "No, please, anybody but her."
"She can't come back, there's no way. She doesn't have a right to join us," Nishihara added in.
"If she does, she can't take the lead right?" Hamada ask, looking at Nagura next to her.
"I…I…I don't know," Nagura stuttered out.
"Why now?" Ikeda said.
While the second-year tank commanders began to ramble, the first years became perplexed as now their upperclassmen were acting odd. The fear and anxiety in their eyes were doing them no favors, making the first years begin to wonder what was happening as they didn't know who this mysterious she was, since they only knew the gist of what had happened with Saunders last year.
"Enough," Nishi said, her voice didn't rise, but shut down the chattering. "As I said, I made a promise in my timid state, because I wanted to bring all of our tankery family back together. It was why I was so fixated on changing and winning, to show that we can win with the old and the new. All because I'm a weak person at heart, my compassion is what has set in motion what is to come and I ask for your forgiveness."
Nishi bowed to her team, then rose her head to speak her final words. "Before the national tournament and before Miho arrive, as the acting commander as you know I have to submit a team sheet to the federation of participating members. Meaning these members have technically been on the roster since the qualifiers but have never fought in matches, having been put on the inactive list."
"Miho knew nothing of this, because I kept their names off the sheets before all of our matches, because I was selfish. I didn't want them coming back, to this new era of Chi-Ha-Tan Sensha-do that we have created, a selfish decision and a most dishonorable one that shames our club, especially from me as second in commander. Meaning I need to atone for this disgrace and honor the promise I made."
Nishi took a deep breath to compose herself, then laid the hammer down. "As of this moment, a small group of our third years who are still wanting to fight in this tournament, will now be joining our club. In total they have enough to crew three tanks and to make up for the shame of trying to cover this up from all of you, all three crews will be added to the starting lineup."
As the explanation was completed, there should have been protesting or fighting back. Instead, everyone was too dumbstruck to speak. Looking at one another in horror, wondering if this was a nightmare, as their team was going to be tested by a trial before even a cannon was fired once again.
"Please, treat your upperclassmen with the respect they deserve," Nishi said defeated, gesturing with a hand to the door.
It open, with none other than Mizuko coming in first with her two other tank commanders with her. She smile smugly, knowing there was nothing that could be done to stop her now, as her ace in the hole had worked out quite nice. As this was her last resort, since their club in her mind had been sullied by Miho beyond repair, so at most she make sure this era came to a close for good this year.
For this was all she had left in this world, to make sure the tradition would die well, even if she had to break this team along the way.
Mizuko stood below the podium smiling at her junior tank commanders in front of her with her arms behind her back. "Well, I very much look forward to reuniting with my juniors from last year and meeting the future of our club. I'm Mizuko Nonaka, I hope you treat me kindly."
The other third year tank commander introduce themselves to a shock team, but Mizuko quickly scan the room for her target. Soon enough, her yellow eye's found Tamada's red ones. They both stare at one another, with Mizuko smirking at her favorite pupil from last year, while Tamada had a blank expression on her face, as she didn't know how to react.
Yet Tamada's right arm move on its own once more, as if by memory now whenever her trouble past of late came for her. It move down, till her hand rested against her stomach, with the action being seen by Mizuko whose smirk only grew wider as she knew this damnable secret Tamada had buried away.
As a single thought ran through Tamada's mind as their team was offering their welcome to their new team.
Miho…where are you?...we need you…we need you…I need you….I…I might not be worthy of you….not anymore
XxxX
"Mmmmm," Miho cooed out, as she stretch her limbs out, after such a long ride on the motorcycle.
Currently, she and Aozora had made a stop at a rest area, needing to stretch their backs, arms, and legs out before getting back on the road. They were currently surrounded by a woodland, their tall trees towering over the duo, who were grateful for the shade they provided as there was not a cloud in the sky and the sun had been beaming down on them till they enter the woodland.
Not to mention their helmets and riding jackets were adding unwanted humidity on them, making them sweat terribly. Which made the small rest a godsend, as they took their helmets off and jackets as well, down to just their plain clothes for now.
As Miho finish her stretches, she made her way over to a bench where Aozora was resting, fanning herself as her long brownish hair was flowing freely down her back. Taking a seat next to her friend, Miho follow her actions by fanning herself off as well. Both were silent, letting the cool shade of trees wash over them, with the peace of the forest very inviting for the soul.
Aozora crack one of her eyes open, looking at her companion. "Have to say, you're getting better at driving my bike."
Hearing the sudden praise, made Miho stop fanning herself, turning to look at the older woman with a nervous smile. "All while breaking the law at the same time."
"That's what makes it all the more fun!" Aozora said, wrapping an arm around Miho bringing her close.
"That would be your logic," Miho said with a giggle.
"It is, plus you'll have something cool to tell the girls when we get back home," Aozora reassured.
Miho gave her an amused sidelong glance. "While getting grief from the rest of the fly girls about you being reckless."
"Like you're any better. Remember, I know what lies beneath this sweet nature of yours, a wild child ready to break out. I mean look at what we're doing right now, traveling half the country just to see your family," Aozora said gesturing with her hand across the air.
"Yea…," Miho said at first, her happy demeanor turning solemn. "Yet, I can't get over what happened with the journalist back in Tokyo."
Aozora nodded, with her hand now rubbing Miho's shoulder. "I know honey, good thing the police didn't believe his story about us. However, it's still disturbing how far people will go for just a little fame, even at the expense of others."
"And you put yourself in the line of fire and got hurt because of it, because of my selfish decision to rope you into this," Miho said through clenched teeth, leaning forward with both hands bawling into fists on her legs.
Not like I understand where she is coming from, hell I should be glad that incident didn't give her nightmares, but it is eating at her. Explains why she has been quiet at times since we got back on the road
Aozora thought, then play her role as big sister, stopping her rubbing and bringing her hand up to stroke Miho's hair gently as she spoke. "Look, I could have said no back the hospital, had you stayed on the carrier and just simply watch as things play out."
Hearing the words made Miho look up at Aozora and lock onto her violet eyes.
"But I didn't. Not because you are too cute to say no to, but because I truly believe you needed to do this. I could see this fire in your eyes that I've never seen before, even in Sensha-do matches. That fire was another change in you, another want to grow as not a tanker, but as a person. Making me wonder if you'll ever stop growing or you might be as wise as me," Aozora said with a warm smile.
Though she was just given a serious pep talk, Miho, whether compelled by her friendly tankery sister or by the fact she had been teased so much, made her be bold. "Maybe I am wiser than you now."
Silence envelope the two, as both of them just stare at one another.
"The Tigress is a bully I see, time for some payback," Aozora said excitedly, as she brought both hands up to clip her fingers on either side of Miho's cheek with a light pinch.
Instantly, Miho brought her hands up in surrender as she spoke. "Sowwy, sowwy, sowwy, I hed too."
Seeing she had gotten her revenge, Aozora unclip her fingers, while Miho began to rub her sore cheeks. Then both of them began to chuckle at their antics.
Aozora clam down first to speak. "My, oh my. You're getting too bold for my liking, I prefer the easily fluster you."
"Sorry, guess I'm spending too much time around Tamada," Miho said with a warm smile spreading across her face, thinking of her lover she miss beyond words.
"Maybe, don't worry, you two will be together soon enough and can be lovey-dovey to your heart's content, but please no PDA," Aozora teased.
"We know!" Miho whined, earning a chuckle from Aozora.
"I wonder," Aozora said as she calm down. "How the rest of the girls are doing? Your absence has to been felt even with little under a week gone."
"I'm sure Nishi is doing all she can to keep the girls in line. She's time and time again proven to be a leader in her own right, I'm sure even if I hadn't come to Chi-Ha-Tan, one day Nishi would have brought her club up with her own style," Miho praised.
"Ah!" Aozora said frantically, wrapping her arms around Miho in a smothering hug. "Don't even talk in what-ifs, this is the reality! How cruel you are to bring up alternate history!"
"Alright, alright, I understand," Miho said through giggle fits, trying to squirm out of her eccentric friend's hold.
Aozora obey soon enough, giving Miho the breathing room she needed, then spoke. "Yea, I'm sure Nishi's got things under control, but I'm more sure the girls are ready for their commander to be home, so as much as I've enjoyed our little road trip, it's time to wrap this up. Will ride on to the next hotel mark on the GPS, then will start bright and early and should be at your family estate tomorrow. From there, it's all you getting us into the estate."
"Right, it's time to return home," Miho said, then stood up from the bench with Aozora following.
Quickly they each began to get their riding gear back on, then got a quick drink from the water flask they carried in the large backpack that carried their clothes and other essentials for their long journey. Once everything checkout, they made their way over to Azora's Kawasaki Ninja ZX6R motorcycle. Yet as Miho put her helmet on and was readying to strap the backpack on, Aozora stop her.
"Ah, you're taking us the rest of the way to the hotel," Aozora said, with her smile hidden under her riding helmet.
"But," Miho try to argue.
"No but's, there is no telling when will have another chance to go out riding again, since motorcycles aren't allowed on the carrier, so I'm going to make sure you're ready for when we go riding in the summer," Aozora said happily, then took the backpack away from Miho and strap it herself.
Seeing there was no point in fighting against the inevitable, Miho sighed, but smiled at the same time as this was just like her enthusiastic tankery sister, always going one speed and you went along willing or not. Soon enough it just became the norm that you got used to, while the other part was you started to want to match that speed.
Whether that was a good thing or bad thing, Miho was still trying to figure out.
Aozora watch Miho walk off to the bike. Though she knew it was not a good thing to be having a teenage girl, with no license to boot, drive something that was dangerous even for adults. Yet Aozora had her reasons, as the past couple of days she had seen Miho become tenser the closer they got the Nishizumi estate.
It was plain as day that Miho, as confident as she was about seeing to her family, dreaded meeting her mother. From what little she knew, Aozora had gathered Miho and her mother had had a rough patch for the last decade, all of it down to upholding their family Sensha-do style that Miho struggled with upholding, leading to a large void in the mother and daughter relationship.
Which was the reason Aozora had been teaching Miho to ride, as a way to distract her mind from the coming task. As just like flying, riding a motorcycle could have a calming effect in Aozora's mind, with nothing but an open road and speed for friends, they could take the worries off your mind and it seem to help ease Miho as they travel.
Miho had finally mounted the bike and was quickly getting it started up efficiently, much to the pride of Aozora, since Miho had been a quick learner. A loud roar of the engine from the bike show off Miho's training, prompting Aozora to come over now. She climb onto the back of the bike, making sure the footpegs were secure as her feet press down, then onto her favorite part.
With Miho done with her checks, Aozora place her hands down to grip Miho's side for support on the ride, as spoke on the helmet microphone. "Alright, we good?"
"Ready," Miho said, with a little hint of excitement in her own voice that wasn't lost on Aozora.
"Alrighty, then hit girl," Aozora ordered.
"Roger that," Miho said, then work the clutch, while checking to make sure no cars were crossing, then twisted the throttle handle to get the bike rolling forward with some speed and onto the road.
"Alright!" Aozora yell into the helmet bike.
"We only just started," Miho said with a nervous chuckle, as she shifted the bike into a higher gear with confidence.
"I know, but you know the rules of riding the Aozora express!" Aozora excitedly said.
"We only have one speed, no matter the conductor," Miho said, but ready herself for the challenge.
"That's right, so hit that throttle for all its worth, cause we're like a shell from an 88mm cannon and we don't slow down till we find the foe!" Aozora said, her heart pounding.
"Yes ma'am!" Miho said, then gave the throttle a good twist, the engine of the bike roaring with it as the motorcycle sped down the road like a bat of hell.
With Miho feeling her worries wash away for a moment, as the wind could be heard whipping around her. The trees passed by like a blur, while all there was the road in front of her. A road taking her to her final destination, back to the place she had wanted to escape the year prior for the failure she believe she caused her mother. A place that once held nothing but laughter and love, of hugs and sweet words, of dreams of making the mother tigress proud of her cubs.
Though all of that had been taken one cruel day.
Yet in her heart of hearts, Miho was going to take back those moments. Face her mother and make her see that she is ready to be the heiress to the family. That she is ready to take on the responsibility that Miho had at one point wanted nothing to do with. Only wanting to shield herself from her mother's demand for victory at all cost, but this time Miho would obtain this victory her mother sought, but it would be by Miho's Sensha-do style, with her tankery family, and by her own strength.
For the Nishizumi cub was returning home, back to her mother tigress to cement her claim to rule.
Yet, the mother Tigress herself, was only sharpening her claws against the storm hanging over her, which might just turn on the cub herself.
As the past and present would clash one more.
Love and hatred.
Regret and fear.
Pain and triumphant.
Neglect and resolve.
All was going to be laid bare for Miho and only by overcoming it could she truly be the Tigress her grandmother had envisioned for her and save her family before it was too late.