The following story is a [FAN-FICTION]. Strike Witches are all owned by Humikane Shimada, Kazuhiro Takamura, Project World Witches, and KADOKAWA. Please support the official franchise.
Witch Musume Re:RISE
New World F - The Christmas Shenanigans is Tough for a Mob
12/24/2018 Braun-nee-Wilcke Residence, Vienna, Austria Nighttime - Clear Sky
Third Person POV
It was nighttime here in the quiet neighborhood streets of Vienna where inside the humble abode where Minna and Richard's adopted son Klaus was seen at the parent's master bedroom where the mother was holding the book where the pages were open. Of course, she would begin to tell a tale. A fairy tale that would take his interest.
"Listen well, Klaus." Minna continued as she read the pages as Klaus looked. "150 years ago… There were Witches that descended from the moon and were greeted by humanity. Over the course of generations, the world has ushered a new era and bonds between them. A world where humans and Witches co-exists peacefully."
"Are you from the moon, Mama?" Klaus asked his mother as she giggled cutely.
"Not quite, little one.~" Minna continued. "We Witches are born here on Earth. But their world? They came from the Moon. The Land of the Witches… it was said to be a land where conflict never existed. It is said that humans see this as an ideal world… an utopia. But that's not all, the land is rife with limitless resources all thanks to magic. And there is the Tree of Life itself. It was said that the 'fruit' can grow and potentially give birth to new Witches."
"Of course, the book that she read to you is a fantasy." Richard said as he responded with a chuckle. "Klaus must have taken a liking, don't you think?"
"He certainly does." Minna said with a kind smile as she closed the book where it appears to have no author but the title itself… The Witches from the Moon. "It may be a fantasy. But it's something to go by to tell stories such as this."
"I… I want to see the Moon." Klaus said as Minna would proceed to ruffle his hair.
"I understand your reason." Minna continued. "However, it's past your bedtime. Your little sister Ann is fast asleep and you should get some rest, too. Remember, you have piano lessons starting tomorrow morning."
"Y-Yes, mama… Good night, mama and papa." Klaus said as he yawned, getting off their bed as he left the bedroom. Minna then proceeded to place the book aside at the small table as Richard got on the bed.
"Do you think our son would believe in those fairy tales of a fantasy?" Richard said as he looked at his wife.
"Perhaps that'll be within his imagination, Dear." Minna continued as she rested on the bed. "If they're real, perhaps the world might change for the better… or worse. The Neuroi Hive is still active in Kastovia. If they were to provide us knowledge of their magic. Perhaps Karlsland would use it to advance it. But that is a what if, that is."
"Only one can dream, Minna. Besides, we have a long road ahead of us. Looking into that magic telescope only gave me headaches. So why not sleep for the night? I am looking forward to seeing Klaus' progress on his piano lessons. Night, Minna." Richard said as he would lay on the side of the bed to look at each other.
"Goodnight to you, Richard…~" Minna replied as she did the same. As the two would sleep soundly… the beliefs on if the Witches from the Moon are real… or simply a fantasy. Perhaps the world isn't ready to learn about it just yet…
OPENING - The Peak by SEKAI NO OWARI [Dave Does Music ENG Cover Ver.] (One Piece)
*Theme plays*
The theme starts with the scene as it shows Keiwa who was seen standing on the airstrip of the 503rd JFW base as the sun begins to rise in the morning as Konbei was with him as the breeze blows through the air.
Taking in the weakness as my ally
Will get me higher than anyone could think to fly
Can't linger here because whatever's lost
Cannot regain their spark, you've got to be strong, you must move on
But there are times when I just cannot find you
Just like my heart, you drift into the darkness of the night
Can feel your kindness or your strength no more
So what to do, still gotta find you, and bring back the light
The scene starts to show Yoshika Miyafuji and Hattori Shizuka as they were walking down the streets of Yokosuka's market as Ichigo Kazuraba was leading them there. Next starts to show Alain Lebled and Perrine Clostermann as they were seen inside the office as Lynette Bishop was providing them tea as Perrine looked outside of the window. Next scene then shows Francesca Lucchini was seen happily walking down the streets in Venice with the Ardor Witches' Red Pants Units. Next then shows Matt and Shirley who were seen in the hangar as they were repairing the P-51D Mustang back at their base. Then next shows Aulis Juutilainen who was seen with Eila as they were helping the civilians in dealing with the blizzard in Helsinki. Next shows Sanya Litvyak who was seen flying alone in the night under the moonlight. Next shows Gertrud who was seen drinking coffee to look outside the window with Jered to see Hanna chasing down Erica as Gertrud sighed and Jered laughed. Then the next scene shows Minna walking with Richard as she was holding Ann while she was holding Klaus' hand as they were walking down the streets of Vienna.
And now I'm sure, I know
The break of dawn is where I'll go
Then the next scene shows Keiwa who was seen drowning underwater until Adolfine and Tomoko were seen diving to reach his hands. Keiwa then opened his eyes as he would proceed to take their hands as it shows the split second of the antagonists of Princess Shino, Zachery Goose, and Chris Keera.
For the highest point is what I will seek
Running through, never stopping on the way to The Peak, yeah
Even though you're numb, you can't help but laugh
'cause it looks like all the pain you felt before is in the past, it seems
Here I stand I'm ready to face the world
Doesn't matter if my legs are quivering, my flag's unfurled, yeah
I'll keep on going, just a little bit more
'cause the moment of awakening, I feel it in my core, right now
The next scene shows Keiwa with Konbei enhancing him as he drew out his katana as he was wrapped in electricity as he falls down from the sky as he pierced through the Neuroi as the core was destroyed as the Witches saw the Neuroi shattering in white flakes. Then the next scene shows Takami Karibuchi flying freely with her Striker Arm as Jane Thatch, Mie Shindou, and Tendou Karibuchi watched her soar. Next shows Tomoko taking part in the film as she was doing stunts. Then the next scene shows Aurora pulling the large wagon as Keiwa, Eihn, and Mio were on it. Then the next scene shows Mio within the middle of the forest as she swings her katana in her stance as she slashes the tree in half. Then the next scene shows Aurora firing her tank cannon from her shoulder as Eihn jumps over her as he slams down his tower shield to create spikes of ice. Then the next scene shows the Typhoon Witches flying through the sky as the view zooms out to show them leaving a cloud on contrails from a far. Then the next scene shows Lukas piloting the Bf-110 G-4 with Heidemarie in the passenger seat as she powers the plane with her magic, soaring through the night sky of Calw. Then the next scene shows Adolfine standing on the top of the Tokyo Skyscraper to look at the view. Then it shows the next scene of Luminous Witches soaring through the blue skies. Then it switches to the scene with everyone present including the 501st Witches as they would join Keiwa as they would stand to join together to see the sunrise. Of course, in front of them is a parallel reflection as it shows the 501st Witches from the previous world looking at them as it created a split screen until the screen transitions to show scenes of the past of the 501st's efforts in liberating Gallia, Venezia, and Berlin along with the character's ambitions as it zooms out from Keiwa's eyes they all looked up at the sky.
It's the time of resurrection, yeah I feel it in my core, right now
And then, the scene transitions shows Keiwa waking up back in his room as he got off his bed as he called Konbei to rest on his neck like a scarf as he would have a smile the moment he leaves as it ends with the picture frame on the table that shows Keiwa, Adolfine, Tomoko, Mio, Aurora, Eihn, and Alexandra along with the Typhoon Witches together at the airbase.
12/25/2018 503rd JFW Air Base, Shousetsu, Japan Morning - Light Snow
First Person POV
It has been ten days. Ten days ever since Me and Tomoko returned back to the base to continue what we do. I was trained by Mio to improve my swordsmanship as I was doing continuous strokes of my sword. Aurora is out gathering logs with Eihn outside of the base. And the two of us are outside near the airstrip as I continue my focus as Mio watches.
"Put your mind and body into your swings. If the enemy strikes you down, you will die! So focus! Swing harder! 500 more!" Mio shouted like a drill sergeant as this destroyed my motivation pretty easily.
"Geez, Mio-san… Why'd you always have to be so cruel to me!?" I complained as I continued my strokes.
"There will be no complaints! Keep that up, I'll double your stroke count!" Mio retorted as she maintained her glare at me as I groaned but yet, I continued.
So, what has happened in the past ten days? Well, let me explain. After we returned, I told everyone. Both my friends and the Typhoon Witches. I explained to them what happened regarding my mother Kazumi. Upon listening to my story. All of them except Tomoko were surprised. Never in their life that a Witch from their world would be the first to appear in our world in the late 90s. I can hardly assume that time flows differently… somehow. They blasted me with questions. Those I tried to answer while some… are hard-hitting. Of course, Alexandra would cut off the conversation and wanted me to rest to let off my mind so I did. And to that day… Typhoon Witches like Fumiyo, Waltraud, Gallina, Rosalie, or even Bronislava would call me the Witch's Son. Fitting, right? It's best to keep it that way. Oh yeah, I managed to snuck my Yumecast console into my room within the living quarters. Apparently, Alexandra was against that and wants training to be our primary focus. Like, come on… Give me some slack, will ya?
"Hey, Mio-san." I continued as I stopped doing the strokes. "I've been thinking about quite some time… How about you want to spar with me for once? I wish to test your skills."
"You wish to fare against me?" Mio said with her arms crossed and her brows raised.
"Yeah. Just a way to practice and learn something from you." I continued. "I won't use my Thunder Magic, promise."
"Then that's fine. I'll spar with you. But before that… when you used your Thunder Magic with that blade I provided you, what type of style did you learn, exactly?" Mio asked.
"Water." I continued. "I had to take kendo practices with an instructor during my time at college. He wanted me to learn the style of Water. In other words… to flow like water."
"Water Style… interesting. It is one of the four main styles that anyone can learn. Water can be offensive. But Defensive, too." Mio said as she unsheathed her katana. "However, allow me to enlighten you. Are you ready?"
"Y-Yeah… Whenever you are." I replied as I readied my blade as we both stare down. The moment she prepares herself… she quickly kneeled and dashed towards me as I was unprepared.
[FWOOSH!]
The hell? I can't tell her movements of where she is going to swing? Of course, she has to wear a baggy but oversized traditional hakama with a haori to obscure her attacks… as if… it's like a mist. But the moment I tried to prepare. With no time to parry, block, or dodge… It was too late.
"Mist Style Technique, Iryugiri…!" Mio then prepared to have her blade near me the moment I tried to react…
[FWOOOOOOOOOSH!]
And just as that… she seemingly didn't hit me but… she was behind me while kneeling with her right leg planted on the ground and her katana swung to her left. My heart was shaking the moment I experienced it. Glad I didn't die but this was something that I never expected to happen. I turned around quickly where she sheathed her katana and stood up.
"W-What… What was that?" I asked her in order to know.
"Mist Style." Mio continued. "I learned it myself."
"So you're self-taught… Never would I think that you'd throw me off with that technique." I said to her as she nodded.
"I've learned various fighting styles with a blade. Upon learning of the four main styles… Primarily Wind itself. Mist comes from Wind. Therefore, I have created it myself." Mio finishes explaining as I was rather astonished until…
"Sakamoto-san! What you just did was amazing!" Fumiyo rushed as she came to meet us. "W-What was it that you did!? You just seemingly concealed your direction of the attack and went straight through him!"
"Ahh, it's called Mist Style. I learned it myself." Mio continued. "Of course, it'll require focused breathing and a calm mind. Surely you'd be interested if I could teach you one."
"Yes, please!" Fumiyo happily replied until Bronislava arrived.
"I'm afraid your training will have to wait, Kawaguchi." Bronislava continued. "You're on patrol duty today. So go sortie with your peers."
"O-Oh… Yes, Ma'am…" Fumiyo sighed in defeat as she proceeded to turn around and head to the Striker Hangar to go out and sortie.
"By the way…" I said as I quickly turned behind her… Heidemarie is here with us… along with the witches who were stationed at Calw in Southern Karlsland. Her brother Lukas is here but he's guarding the transport plane that they took. "I'm glad that you accepted Bronislava's invitation for a collaboration training, Heidi. How long have you been staring at me, exactly?"
"About two hours." Heidi replied.
"TOO LONG!" I retorted in surprise as I calmed down. "But still… Is there any point in talking to me, exactly?"
"I want to understand you." Heidi continued as she placed her hand to her chest. "Your reason to fight, aspire to others, and the reason to live. Those are the answers I wish to seek."
"Really now?" I said as I scratched the back of my head. "Honestly, I'm just a person being myself. I'm… not really a hero that people look up to me. Besides, living here in Shousetsu is just an ordinary boring port town."
"Is… Is Shousetsu boring?" Heidi asked with a slight head tilt in confusion.
"It depends on the people's opinions. To be… it feels boring to me. When you go to a big city like Tokyo, Berlin, or Los Angeles. In my eyes… they're quite boring to go to once you become familiar with it. It's not like I'm bragging to be a downer but those are my words." I continued as I took a deep breath and looked at her after looking at the clouded sky during the snow. "How about this… I'll show you around Shousetsu if you wanna familiarize yourself… And perhaps to get a glimpse of what I do here in my daily life."
"That'd be interesting, Keiwa. Though… You need to talk to my brother Lukas about it." Heidi said as Lukas had arrived as he listened to our conversation.
"I'll let you explore the town, sister." Lukas continued as he looked at me. "Keiwa, right? The one who helped my sister to achieve her dreams?"
"That'd be me, yes." I replied.
"Don't do anything stupid with my sister, okay? So don't waste that blessing." Lukas replied with a stern look as Heidi looked back at her brother.
"Please, brother. He's a kind person. So please, go easy on him." Heidi said to her brother as Lukas proceeded to sigh.
"Fine, fine. Just look after my sister for me, okay? All this cold is giving me damn shivers…" Lukas said as he would find a place to rest in order to find warmth. Since I'm a Slave… I'm immune to the chill.
"That's my brother for you. Shall we get going?" Heidi asked me as I nodded.
"Yeah. I wanna start off in one location first. It's at Port Izaka. In case you haven't noticed, it has been somewhat repurposed as a JMSDF Naval Base. I know a Witch who is stationed here so I was hoping you don't mind. Do you?" I asked her about it as she shook her head.
"Oh no, I wouldn't mind at all. Are you sure your commander of this platoon, Serbanescu, is okay with it?" Heidi then mentioned about Alexandra… Of course… She wouldn't want me going far from Shousetsu but I know my limits. She's a respectable Witch. But I just hoped she would go lighter on me. Ostmarkian Witches are truly scary…
"Meh. She wouldn't care. Besides, she's busy with her own thing so let's get going." I said to her as I looked at Mio. "Hey, Mio-san. We can continue the training another time."
"That's fine. Oh and, one more thing…" Mio continued. "Merry Christmas."
"Heh… Thanks. Merry Christmas to you as well." I replied with a smirk on my face as me and Heidi left the base. After all, I'm willing to provide a friend a tour all around Shousetsu.
So here's the plan… I need to meet with a Witch who is a former member of the famed 501st like Yoshika. Her name is Shizuka Hattori, she is a Warrant Officer who works for the JMSDF's 88th Fuso Flight Unit. Of course, she came to Shousetsu five days ago and she's already settling in. I'll be honest here. She's seemingly the most serious Witch here and takes her duty seriously. So that'll be a good start to say the least.
JMSDF Port Izaka Base, Shousetsu, Japan Morning - Light Snow
Background Music | Persona 3 OST - When The Moon's Reaching Out Stars
As soon as we walked down the streets of Shousetsu and arrived at the port where it's apparently a JMSDF territory. While half of the port can be used by civilians just to gather enough fishes… or to sail through the sea as long as they don't go too far. There are patrol boats for a reason. But as soon as we arrived at the port where the workers and Fusoan Witches were doing their own thing, the IJN Shinano docked there. I noticed that Shizuka was seen staring at the sea for some reason… Well, it wouldn't hurt to talk to her.
"Hey, Shizuka-san. Merry Christmas." I called her out the moment she looked at us as we arrived.
"Oh, Keiwa. Merry Christmas." Shizuka continued. "And it appears you have someone with you. I assume this is a Karlslandian Night Witch? You must be Schnaufer, correct?"
"That's correct. It's an honor to meet a former member of the 501st such as yourself." Heidi greeted her with courtesy.
"Thank you. Your words are too kind. Though, our days of being part of the 501st are over and everyone is moving on with their lives. I assume you've been busy back in your country?" Shizuka asked her.
"I have. I've been running the airbase back in my birthplace of Calw with my brother. After all, we Schnaufer family are proud owners of the vineyard business. We've been running our winery store ever since the aftermath at Poznan. My brother has relocated his store from the market to nearby our air base so we can remain together." Heidi explained about it as Shizuka was quite curious in the words she put in.
"You have a brother? May I ask what his name is?" Shizuka asked as she nodded.
"Lukas-Severin Schnafuer. In truth, he is my counterpart's descendant. But regardless, he is my older brother who deeply cares about me and my safety." Heidi continued as she had a small smile as she placed her hand to her chest. "If I hadn't met him… I would have lived a lonely life by now."
"I see… you must be very content with your life right now with your brother right now. I assume he's also here?" Shizuka responded.
"He is. Safonov requested his skills to build a sleigh for this upcoming Sasebo Christmas Eve." Heidi continued as she looked at me. "And I'm sure Keiwa here would be willing to take up the mantle as Santa Claus himself."
"W-Wait…" I continued. "No one told me about this. But… if I want to be Santa Claus for this event… I don't mind. Would it be funny if I just gave the Fusoan Witches some coal?"
"Coal? Why'd you want to do that? Christmas is all about spreading joy, Kaburagi. Don't tell me you intend to get revenge on them, don't you?" Shizuka said with an unimpressed glare ever since Keiwa is still hated by Witches. All because of his stunt in defeating the Neuroi during the Battle of Sea of Japan. "Or better yet… you're not going to tell the Typhoon Witches about this, are you?"
"Honestly, they'll respect my decision… I think?" I said to her with some pondering until…
Background Music | Persona 3 OST - Crisis
"H-HELP! SOMEONE! HELP ME! I CAN'T SWIM!" The voice of a young boy screamed as we noticed to see far from the water where the man was trying to grab the boy's hand as he was on the fishing boat.
"SOMEONE! SAVE MY BOY! ANYONE!" The man yelled for help as I knew things were serious… The water's way too cold! The boy's going to suffer if someone doesn't help good thing I'm immune to hypothermia due to my status as a Slave. I better jump in the water and save him…!
"Wait, Keiwa." Heidi said to me as I looked at her. She then activates her familiar but her magic antenna isn't activated. Of course… She still has her Gyrfalcon named Wallia within her. "I will save this child."
[STEP… STEP… STEP…]
"H-Hold up! You're going to-" The moment Heidi starts to walk off the ledge of the dock… the magic circle appears below her as if she is walking on water. "…drown?"
And here I thought Witches can only raise up their shields and that's it. Seems there is much more to it… Then, she proceeds to propel herself with such a boost as she begins to surf on the water as she skids on it. Heidi arrived on time as she managed to pull the boy's arm out of the water and hand him to the man. The man proceeded to hug him who was all drenched in cold water.
"My son…!" The man hugged his son and looked back at Heidi. "T-Thank you… for saving him…"
"Please, pay it no mind." Heidi said with a smile as she would walk on water to return to us as her familiar deactivates. Of course, I was left stunned by what she could do.
Background Music | Persona 3 OST - Joy
"Amazing…" I said in awe as she returned to us. "Never would I think you can walk on water… let alone surf it!"
"In case you aren't aware, Kaburagi. We Witches are beyond just deploying our shields. Our magic circles can help with walking on water, stick to surfaces, and negate fall damage from long heights. We even used it for attacks, like using a Shield Drill Charge." Shizuka explained as she looked down a little. "But like our magic, the runes do have limits, primarily fatigue…"
"Ahh… So there are benefits and downsides. Gotcha." I said after learning something new today.
"As for you, Schnaufer." Shizuka continued. "Why are you here in Shousetsu, exactly?"
"Ahh. I accepted Safonov's invitation as part of the collaboration efforts. Though, this will most likely be a one day stay. And we intend to take part in the Sasebo Christmas event, too. Are you coming?" Heidi asked her about it as she shook her head.
"Sadly, no." Shizuka continued. "I have my own duties as a Witch so I cannot attend any events that would deem disruptive to my routine."
"Ahh, that's unfortunate. Keiwa? Shall we get going? There are a lot of various places to explore, aren't there?" Heidi asked me as I nearly forgot about it.
"Shit, you're right!" I continued. "Hey, Shizuka-san. I wanna take Heidi-san to more places. Good talking with you, though! Peace!"
"O-Oh… Farewell then, Kaburagi. It's nice to meet you again. Merry Christmas." Shizuka said as I nodded back at her. And so… I'd waste no time showing places all around Shousetsu before we'd head back to the base. Besides, I can't have Alexandra be shouting at me if I overstay my welcome outside of the base.
Karibuchi Residence, Sasebo, Japan Daytime - Light Snow
Third Person POV
Background Music | Persona 5 Tactica OST - Beneath the Mask
Meanwhile at the Karibuchi Residence within Sasebo… Inside the small garage where Takami was seen cleaning her Striker Arms that she had used since the Battle of Sea of Japan. The Striker Arm itself helped her push through her limits of what her Striker Unit could not. Of course, she's much faster and maneuverable. In which her speed would almost compare to a fighter jet despite the Striker Arm's model being based on a World War II fighter plane. She wore her usual white Fusoan Navy uniform to this day. While she was considering wearing casual clothing, she would prefer to wear her current one. Though, she is taking a break from working with the Mighty Witches since Jane Thatch would allow her to have a temporary vacation because it's Christmas. No one would've wanted to miss it out. But that's not all, her sister Hikari Karibuchi had also returned from St. Petersburg to earn herself a vacation for Christmas. The brown-haired girl who wore her dark navy Fusoan sailor uniform. Indeed, all Fusoan Witches do wear their swimsuits under their uniforms as part of their protocol. Takami and Hikari's brother Tendou was also present who was seen wearing his winter jacket and jeans in order to make himself look better in terms of casual wear. So it was both Tendou and Hikari looking at their older sister doing the usual work.
"Onee-chan! I heard you took part in the battle previously. How did that go?" Hikari happily asked her sister as she looked back at her.
"It went well. On the side note, nobody was hurt." Takami continued. "And just after the battle… the mayor of Sasebo hailed me as a hero here."
"And you're used to this small kind of fame, right?" Tendou asked his older sister as she nodded.
"I have." Takami continued. "So it's nothing natural but it feels nice to be praised by the locals here."
"Right… Anyways, I got some news to share." Tendou continued as he took a deep breath. "Karlsland's recently made aircraft carrier, the KMS Prinzessin zu Wittgenstein of the Schnaufer-class will be gracing the docks in Sasebo. And with it… the ship itself is carrying none other than the 506th JFW's Major Heinrike Prinzessin zu-Sayn Wittgenstein. She'll be taking part in the port town's Christmas Event. Of course, this is her first visit to Japan."
"I've heard of her during my time at Kauhava. She is considered one of Karlsland's finest Night Witches in her country before joining the Night Witches. But still, it'd be a great honor to greet her here in our country." Takami said with a kind smile as if both Takami and Heinrike knew each other.
"Is she really that well-known?" Hikari asked her as she nodded.
"Of course. I couldn't think any less-" As Takami was about to continue… their mother who would arrive as she was seen holding a neatly wrapped lunch box.
"Hikari, dear. Would you deliver this lunch to your father? I worry that he's been busy without end." Their mother asked Hikari as she nodded.
"H-Hai!" Hikari continued as she looked back at the two. "I better deliver the lunch to Oto-san real soon! Can I use your bike, Onii-chan?"
"Sure, go for it. And be safe on your way there." Tendou said to her as she nodded.
"Thanks! Talk to you later, Onee-chan! Onii-chan!~" Hikari said as she would rush out of the garage as their mother would go back to work on her cooking as usual. Now, it just leaves the two but.
"With our little sister off to deliver food to Oto-san… You want to visit the port and greet Major Wittgenstein? I'm sure the carrier had arrived sooner then I thought." Takami said to her brother as he nodded.
"Sure. I wouldn't mind either way." Tendou replied back to his older sister. "No Striker Arms or Units this time?"
"There is no need for them. We'll walk our way there. Shall we get going?~" Takami asked as he would agree. So the two would set off on foot to make their way to the port…
JMSDF Sasebo Naval Docks, Sasebo, Japan Daytime - Light Snow
Background Music | Persona 3 OST - Joy
As time passed by a little. The two had arrived at the naval dock through the Witch Taxi service which made traversal on air much easier which people have come to use almost everyday. Of course, Japan had setted up a new standard for all worlds to follow that idea soon after. The Karibuchis arrived where they saw a modern aircraft carrier which looked huge. There were a lot of sailors and Fusoan Witches who came to see the carrier itself to grave itself here in Sasebo. Of course, the Witch they're meeting is a noble.
"To think that Karlsland would have their own aircraft carrier since the Second World War…" Takami said in slight astonishment as Tendou had the same reaction.
"Same… How large is it, anyways?" Tendou asked her.
"About the same size as a Nimitz-class from the US. However, they have a ski-jump at the end of it." Takami continued. "Look, here she is now. Let us greet her."
As for the blonde-haired Witch with a Karlslandian Night Witch uniform, she sets her foot the moment she arrives in Sasebo for the first time. Of course, Heinrike maintained her usual personality to keep her noble composure at best.
"So this is Japan? Not Fuso? Hmph… I expected much of this place. How unrefined…" Heinrike said to herself where the sailors and the Fusoan Witches were greeting them with respect. However, She noticed a familiar face which was Takami while Tendou was following her older sister. Then, the two would salute at each other due to their connections with each other back from their world. "Oh, well if it isn't Karibuchi. Guten Tag."
"Greetings to you, Major Wittgenstein. We humbly welcome you to Japan." Takami replied as the two lowered their arms after they stopped saluting.
"I hope you've been doing well. Anything going on?" Heinrike asked her as she nodded.
"Of course. I have been busy as of late. Mainly testing out the Striker Arm that Satake Labs has given out." Takami explained about the Striker Arm that she had used before. Of course, Heinrike did hear words and good things about the next upgrade of the Striker Unit.
"Hope the Doctor will start production soon. But Striker Units are still the norm for us. Surely we've been too familiar with it." Heinrike said as she seemed interested in using it. However, she looked at Tendou. "Hmm? And who is this peasant?"
"You callin' me a peasant?" Tendou asked her with his brows raised in question as Takami sweatdrops a little.
"U-Uhh… Please don't mind what she said, Tendou." Takami said to her brother before looking back at Heinrike. "Also, that's my brother, Tendou Karibuchi. He works as an AWACS Operator for the 508th now."
"Greetings, Wittgenstein-san. I assume that you're participating in this Christmas event here in Sasebo?" Tendou asked the noble as she agreed but acted in a slightly arrogant way due to her status as a noble.
"More or less…" Heinrike continued as she flicked her hair in brilliance. "I have no time to talk with lesser commoners. Now then, Karibuchi. Perhaps you'd be interested to check out my illustrious aircraft carrier?"
"I'd love to… As long as I take my brother with me. Are we clear?" Takami asked her as she sighed.
"Fine… I will allow it. Come. There is much for you to look around." Heinrike said as Takami would follow her.
"So much of her being a noble, I guess…" Tendou said within his mind as he decided to follow Takami and Heinrike as long as he keeps his mouth shut now that he's in the presence of a noble Witch. After all, all Tendou can do is to wait until the event begins at night.
Background Music End
503rd JFW Air Base, Shousetsu, Japan Nighttime - Light Snow
First Person POV
As time passed by I showed Heidi all around the town. We did return back to the base in time since the Karlslandian Witches were training. They're currently resting in the guest living quarters as of now but there were plans today… Bronislava suggested the idea of delivering presents to the Witches in Sasebo as part of the event. Of course, I volunteered to be Santa. And the reason why? I'm going to give them coal. I had to ask Aurora if there was any coal left and she gave them to me. That's right! I'm going to make the Witches' lives miserable by looking down on me just because I'm a guy! After many hours of putting coal into the gifts all by myself… It was complete. Not only that… Lukas had to create a sleigh to be capable of flight through magic since it was made from the parts of the Witch Carriage. I did have a look at it as it was complete. Sure, it doesn't look great. He just had to 'Frankenstein' the whole sleigh all by himself.
"Phew… I had some skills in creating things but… I'm entirely unsure if this would hold up the loads of Christmas goodies that you're sending." Lukas continued. "Are you sure you're going to be okay?"
"Don't worry, dude. These goodies are gonna be for the Witches. Though… I do have a special gift for a certain someone… But I'm not telling ya." I said to Lukas as he lighty shrugged.
"Sure, sure. You do you. But never would I think that my sister would be in the far front… like Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer. You get me?" Lukas replied.
"You're not wrong. I kinda told her to be on the front. And don't worry about the sleigh. It'll do good." I said to him as I looked at the rest of the Witches…
Both Heidi and the Typhoon Witches were in their harness. Good thing Tomoko-san is there. I bet you're gonna watch the whole thing unfold, Konbei. Shit's gonna hit the fan and you know it! So I proceeded to place the large bag of gifts containing coal onto the sleigh and hopped on since we're at the runway. Their familiars are activated and their Strikers are up and running. Good thing they're patient but they're ready.
"I'll be honest here… I'm not too sure on being wise on… launching coal to the Witches." Bronislava said to Alexandra as she seemed unsure.
"Either that or the Witches will tear him alive." Alexandra said with a sweatdrop as I spoke.
"We don't have time to dawdle and talk. Heidi! Can you turn your magic antenna red?" I asked the Night Witch as she nodded.
"I can do that. Might as well pick up some Christmas music along the way." Heidi said as her magic antenna began to shift into red for festive reasons. But not only that… She also plays some Christmas music as we begin to listen to it. Man, her magic antenna is really something.
"Alright… Operation Coal Train is a go!" I said with a smirk on my face as I looked where Eihn, Aurora, Huberta, and Lukas stood there.
"Good luck on whatever you're doing, Kaburagi." Lukas said to me as I nodded.
"Don't worry, it'll be quick… I guess. Now then… fly!" I said to the Witches as they all began moving as they began to take off into the sky as I held on. After gaining enough height, I can see the whole town of Shousetsu from afar. But for now, our task is to join the Christmas event in Sasebo. I can't wait to see their reactions when they see coal in their hands.
JMSDF Sasebo Naval Docks, Sasebo, Japan Nighttime - Light Snow
Third Person POV
Meanwhile, back at the naval dock in Sasebo. All of the Fusoan Witches were having a decent Christmas party at Heinrike's approval. Tendou, Takami, and Hikari, who managed to arrive a few hours ago, were enjoying themselves. However, Heinrike begins to activate her familiar along with her magic antenna which was in the shape of a crown as she placed her hand over ear as she began to listen.
"Major Wittgenstein?" Takami asked the Karlslandian Night Witch.
Background Music | Persona 3 OST - Deep Breath, Deep Breath
"It's… Christmas music. It seems someone is arriving… Schnaufer?" Heinrike said as she looked up in the night sky to see a group of Witches with green and red lights on the tip of their wings of their Striker Units. It was indeed Heidemarie who was in the front along with the other Typhoon Witches who were flying with the hovering sleigh as well.
"Onee-chan! Look! Santa is here!" Hikari tells her sister the moment she pointed at the sky. Though, it's not Santa himself but Keiwa who was in his Santa outfit as he was within the range to drop the gifts. He proceeds to toss the gifts down from the bag he took as it proceeds to fall. But the small parachutes were deployed to help slow the fall. "Presents!~"
Everyone present on the aircraft carrier saw the presents falling down from the sky as one of the Witches grabbed it. She proceeds to unwrap it and opens the box. Only to find out the gift she had received… is something less to be desired.
"Wait… this is coal…" The Fusoan Witch said in question as she picked it up from her hand.
"The hell? I got coal, too!" The second Witch complained as the rest of the Witches followed suit to express their frustration. Of course, Keiwa had brought out the megaphone while the Christmas music was playing from Heidemarie's magic antenna as he proceeded to speak.
"Ho, ho, ho!~ Merry Christmas, you bunch of losers!" Keiwa continued as he taunted them. "You get coal for the night! So this is what you get for looking down on me ever since the Sea of Japan Incident just because I'm a guy!"
All of the Witches find out that the voice belongs to Keiwa as they know him all too well. Indeed, this angered them in the process.
"Ergh…! I hate that guy!" The Witch said in frustration.
"Damn you! You'll pay for this!" The second Witch expressed anger as she tightly gripped the coal on her hand.
And just as that… the Witches pulling the sleigh lands on the runway of the carrier as it was Heidemarie's idea since she saw her old friend Heinrike there. As she turned off the music along with her magic antenna… Keiwa proceeded to take off his outfit to fully reveal himself to the rest of the angry Fusoan Witches who had received their gifts of coal. Indeed, they weren't all too thrilled about it. Pissed off, that is. Then he proceeded to unleash his laughter as he couldn't contain it. Heinrike saw the whole thing happen. While she, too, received her gift… She shook her head in disappointment towards Keiwa without speaking. Takami and Hikari could only watch as Tendou continued to keep his mouth shut.
"H-Holy shit! Look at you Witches! All of you got coal for Christmas! Ahahahaha!~ That's so hilarious! HAHAHAHAHAAAA!~" Keiwa said in laughter as he slammed his fist on the side of the sleigh. But this angered them even more. The whole group of Fusoan Witches had enough of him as they resorted to aim their weapons directly at Keiwa. His laughter died as it turned into a great confusion. "H-Hey… W-What's the big idea?"
Background Music | Persona 3 OST - Crisis
"How dare you ruin Christmas! Not for me but for all of us! Do you think it's funny to you!? Is it!?" The angry Witch said with a scowling look.
"Perhaps it'll be better if we just shoot you dead right now!" The second angry Witch threatened as things were about to go out of control. However, Hikari rushed to intervene in order to stop this impending violence.
"Stop fighting! This isn't right!" Hikari shouted to everyone as Takami arrived as she was also serious with her demeanor as she spoke to them.
"Everyone! Listen! I know how much you all wanted to kill him, but we should be peaceful about this! Otherwise, we'll regret it later! Keiwa may be a bastard, yes, but he does take his work diligently. Hell, if it weren't for him and his company, who knows what would happen to Japan. You know it, I know it, even Princess Shino knows it. So, what will be your verdict, everyone. Kill him, or be reasonable. Or do you intend to shame your own pride to make our country look bad?" Takami gave a speech as she managed to get everyone's attention. The Fusoan Witches were left stunned by this… as a result… killing a human being over a joke wasn't worth it for them. So, they lowered their arms and remained silent… Keiwa was surprised that Takami just somehow managed to quell this farce just easily.
Background Music | Persona 4 - A Sky Full of Stars
"So… does that mean they'll apologize to me?" Keiwa asked in question as Takami looked at him.
"Kaburagi… What you have done is completely irresponsible. Yet, why give them coal?" Takami asked him as he looked down a bit. Of course, he would admit to this whole thing all planned by himself.
"I… I just wanted to get a harmless revenge for looking down on me. That's all." Keiwa said to her as Takami proceeded to climb on the sleigh to check the bag full of presents…
"You are delivering Coal, alright. But still, trying to get revenge on them doesn't accomplish everything after what they've done to you. You killed a Neuroi on your own, yes. But it doesn't mean some Witches will accept you after what you've done. Plus…" Takami continued as she looked at him. "But imagine if you gave Commodore Galland some coal without realizing it."
"W-Wait…!" Keiwa continued in confusion the moment she mentioned her name… his future girlfriend. "T-That… that may be entirely my fault… But, is Ad- I mean Commodore Galland here?"
First Person POV
"I am. Considering what happened with that wild stunt you pulled off. Harmless, but a bit disrespectful to the Witches in my opinion." The voice of Adi was here… Commodore Galland as what Witches call her. But why would she be here?
"Ad- Galland-san! You're here!?" I said to her with a surprised look on my face as she maintained her smile.
"Thought I would come and visit Japan and see what their Christmas is like. And seeing as how you gave coal to the Witches here…" Adi said with her right hand to her hip as I got off the sleigh as Takami did the same. Of course, there is some explanation to do.
"I mean… that was my whole plan. Only did it for fun." I said to her as she lightly raised her brows.
"For fun?" Adi asks.
"For fun." I answered. She then proceeded to sign to maintain her composure.
"Well, you did cause quite an uproar to a degree. I'll let it slide, Keiwa. But pull a stunt like that across the world, for sure they will crucify you." Adi lightly warned me if I were to imagine the worst outcome possible to the point I shuddered.
"Y-Yeah… I wouldn't imagine that. Suppose I'll change for the better… I guess…" I said with a sigh as Adi would look at the two… Takami and this brown haired girl… Is that her sister?"
"Takami? Hikari? Do you mind if you can give me and Kaburagi some space here?" Adi said to the two as they nodded.
"Understood. Hikari-chan, let us go and reunite with our brother." Takami said to her as the two would give us some space. The rest of the Fusoan Witches spreaded out from us as their party here on this aircraft carrier continued as usual.
"Keiwa, you understand why I'm here. Do you?" Adi asked me.
"Err… For a Christmas party, right?" I asked her as she chuckled.
"That. But I was hoping you'd be interested in some talks right now." Adi continued. "Unless you have something that isn't coal, no?"
The moment she mentioned something… Something that isn't coal… Right! I remember something from a few days ago. Before Christmas, I went to Tokyo to buy something neat that was fancy but cheap. I proceeded to grab out a small box from my pockets as I opened it… revealing to be a necklace but…
"This right here is a silver wing necklace. It's not much so… Consider this from me to you. Merry Christmas." I said to her as she took the necklace and wore it as she seemed happy.
"Aww…~ Thank you, Keiwa. You're too sweet." Adi said with a small smile on her face. "As from me to you… Why not have a stroll around Sasebo. You wouldn't mind, do you?"
"Sure. You want me to pick a place?" I asked her as she responded.
"Anything." Adi replied.
"Right. C'mon. Let's go, Adi. I'm… I'm sure they haven't noticed us by now so I'm sure they'll be fine." I said the moment where the both of us decided to sneak on out without gathering this much attention as we proceeded to find our way out of the carrier as I wanted to take her somewhere in Sasebo. I'm sure she wouldn't mind.
Third Person POV
Meanwhile… with the rest of the Typhoon Witches who have taken off their Strikers as they decided to spend their time in this Christmas party here. Heinrike noticed Heidemarie here as she wanted to have a chat with her.
"So… How are things back in Karlsland, Schnaufer?" Heinrike said to her as Heidi would take notice of her old friend. Of course, she smiled softly.
"Nothing new. Commander Minna stepped down and passed it over to Barkhorn." Heidi explained shortly what happened back in their country since the events of liberation of Poznan from Neuroi control. To Heinrike's reaction… She was aware of it but not surprised. Knowing that Minna was a well-respected Witch back in Karlsland right until her permanent retirement in exchange to pursue the idol/music career.
"Really now? Minna stepped down as Commander." Heinrike continued with her arms crossed. "I know it'll be different, but under Barkhorn's leadership no less."
"So far, she's done a lot. Still has strict discipline, but she's relaxing herself." Heidi replied as she mentioned Gertrud. Of course, Heinrike simply smiled knowing that Karlsland's aviation military is in good hands.
"Then I'm glad to hear it. As for this aircraft carrier that you have graced upon. You are standing at my very own KMS Prinzessin zu Wittgenstein of the Schnaufer-class. Fancy, isn't it?" Heinrike said to Heidi the moment she told her of the carrier she is on. Of course, she was surprised.
"It is. Karlsland made this?" Heidi asked her about it.
"It took the whole of Europe to design one. It's like the Nimitz-class the US has, but has ski-jumps like the Russians and the Brits have." Heinrike explained shortly of it as Heidi took a quick look around before looking back at her friend.
"Amazing... This is the only ship, right? It's strange that our country would use our names like this..." Heidi asked.
"For now." Heinrike continued. "A second ship is under construction. It'll be named after Minna in her honor."
"I'm looking forward to it." Heidi replied.
Background Music End
"Oh, I nearly forgot. There is something I wish to talk about... Your connections with that uncivilized brute." Heinrike's mood shifted to where she's become serious.
"You mean Keiwa?" Heidi asked her as Heinrike's fists were tightly gripped as she wasn't too thrilled about her being near him. A male.
"Why befriend this clown!? I expect no less from you…" Heinrike said in some disappointment. But for Heidi…
Background Music | Persona 4 OST - Traumerei
"Y-You're wrong, Heinrike…" Heidi continued. "He… Keiwa helped me achieve my dream…"
"…What?" Heinrike asked in confusion.
"He helped me achieve what I can accomplish. He may be a dummkopf, yes, but he helped." Heidi continued as she placed her hand to her chest. "I saw him first hand back in Frankfurt and Poznan. He's not what everyone believes he is."
"Then what is he to you?" Heinrike asked the Spook of St. Trond.
"My hero…" Heidi responded as this caught her by surprise.
"Heroes, huh… A fool he may be. Perhaps I judged him too harshly. Even though he is not a noble." Heinrike said with some understanding.
"Still… Even if I nearly fell into despair... Keiwa always drags me back in the light." Heidi continued. "And I'll be honest here… To me this is what it means to live."
"Maybe… I guess cherish it and live to its fullest. Otherwise, tomorrow may be your last." Heinrike said as this question came into her mind… The question and the lives of mortality.
"We're all aging, Wittgenstein. You as well. Even if you fear death… At least, try to live a happy life as a Witch. And fly. Fly as far as you can. And then… freedom." Heidi said with a small smile on her face as she desired to keep on living as a Witch. To do what's right for her, her country, and the world.
"I'll… I'll try." Heinrike replied.
"Sounds like you two have gotten along. This is my first time seeing your softer side, princess." Tendou spoke as she took notice as she blushed and turned around as she was all flustered.
"H-How dare you sneak into our conversation, you fool!?" Heinrike retorted in embarrassment.
"Hey! I was trying to be nice here!" Tendou spat back as he was irritated by her ego. The two would continue to bicker on and on to the point where Heidemarie herself would sweatdrop from this one…
Shopping Plaza, Sasebo, Japan Nighttime - Clear Sky
First Person POV
Background Music | Persona 3 OST - When the Moon's Reaching Out Stars
As time went on albeit shortly. Me and Adi took a walk to the shopping plaza here in Sasebo. Honestly, this is my first time being here. So does Adi here. But still, I wanted to find a place to sit. So we sat on the bench. Except I had to go buy something from a vending machine. So I bought ourselves a coffee can as I handed her it. I sat next to her as she was close to me.
"Say, Adi-chan." I continued as she looked at me. "If you're here in Japan. Where's your Striker Unit?"
"Oh, mine?" Adi continued as she had a calm smile. "It's being held inside the KMS Prinzessin zu Wittgenstein. Of course, I did have talks with Princess Shino again during our trip to Japan."
"Really? You had talks with her again?" I said to her with a slightly concerned look as she seemingly chuckled.
"Yep. She's still onto the whole doctrine of Imperial Will and women over men. For which I joked to try taking on Humanoid Neurois. She doesn't believe that though." Adi said as she was being so casual about it.
"Really now? Pretty typical of that princess." I said with a small chuckle. "Anyways… How's the drink?"
"Good, to say the least." Adi continued. "I know you wanted some good time with me but that will have to wait. But I'm thankful that you gave me this necklace. It fits me well. Even though my sniper scope gets in my way, I'll cherish it."
"Say, Adi-chan. Uhh…" I try to speak as I need to speak my heart out. "Have… Have I changed?"
"I guess so. You are starting to open up to other Witches you don't know about." Adi said as she would continue. "But regardless, you've come a long way from where you're at now. That's what matters. Being alive and all."
"You're not wrong. While I can't feel pain since I'm Tomoko's Slave. I'm not complaining but… I'm still alive and kicking. And I'm indeed meeting them as I go." I continued as I looked down a bit. "I was wondering… Are you worried about me?"
"Yeah… I do." Adi continued. "Everyone has fears. You and me. But my fear… is those who are dying in front of me. In other words… having a fear of death itself."
"Memento mori…" I continued in a calm composure as I learned something like that back in my school years. "Remember death."
"That…" Adi added.
"I understand how you feel. Losing someone close to you can be painful… or being fearful of your own imminent death. I used to have those kinds of fears but… I've learned how to push through. But through and through… Ever since I met you. I… I have a fear of losing you. You're the only Witch who has opened my eyes. You're my light within the darkness." I said the moment I started to shed a tear was the moment I was slowly breaking down from my emotions. "I don't want to lose you. You're everything I have."
Suddenly, Adi then proceeded to hug me as I noticed her doing so.
"Don't worry, Keiwa… I'll support you no matter what. But don't you go dying on me. I, too, still need you more than ever in my life. Even if everything is boring." Adi said with affection as I blushed a little. Of course, I hugged her back the moment we looked eye to eye.
We both decided to have a deep affectionate kiss, lip to lip. Our tongues touched each other as she was moaning lightly as she didn't want to stop. But she was warm. That's for sure. Then after that… we both stopped as Adi proceeded to place her hands on my cheek as she was still affectionate.
"I'm sure you're the only person who's willing to face those fears. Against death itself. That's what you always do, right?~" Adi said to me as I nodded.
"Always." I said the moment I checked the clock on my phone. "Well damn, it's almost midnight. Not sure if they're partying hard but… You wanna head back to the aircraft carrier?"
"I'd say why not. I'm glad that I was able to spend time with you again since our last talk back in Berlin." Adi continued as we both stood up. "So let's not waste time and meet up with your friends there, shall we?"
Of course, I agreed. We've begun making our way back there. My bonds between me and Adi are getting closer.
JMSDF Sasebo Naval Docks, Sasebo, Japan Nighttime - Light Snow
Background Music | Persona 3 Portable OST - Way of Life
As soon as we returned back to the carrier's runway. Tomoko approached me with Konbei relaxing over her neck.
"Keiwa-kun. Where we're you?" Tomoko said to me.
"Ahh. I wanted to show Galland-san around the place. Right?" I said to Adi as she responded.
"Yep. We visited the sights, and just walked across other places that are celebrating Christmas." Adi replied as Tomoko took a deep sigh of relief.
"I see. I fear that you two went missing but I'm glad you're okay. I can tell you're becoming friends with a Commodore. It's kind of rare to see you befriending her." Tomoko said as I scratched the back of my head.
"Hey, she helped me through the darkest times." I replied.
"That is true." Adi continued. "While I'm only here for Christmas. I intend to return to Karlsland to do my usual work back at the Witch Corps HQ."
"Really? More boring work again?" I asked her as she sighed.
"Unfortunately…" Adi responded as I looked at her the moment I placed my hand over her shoulder.
"Hey, as long as you get through it. I'm sure a Witch like you can handle everything." I tried to give her some motivation as she simply chuckled about it. Of course I was doing my best in keeping her spirits up.
"Heheh. Only one can dream. You all are returning back to base. As for me… I will remain here on this carrier." Adi then looked at the blonde haired Witch… What was her name? "Major Wittgenstein, surely you can tell those crew to send me back to Karlsland on sea first before you return to France. Would you?"
"Understood Ma'am." The blonde Witch saluted in response.
"Hey uhh… Who's she?" I asked Adi about it.
"Heinrike Prinzessin zu-Sayn Wittgenstein. She's Vice-Commander of the 506th Noble Witches and their Night Witch. As the name suggests, she's born into a noble family. She can be serious in her work, but once you get to know her, she'll be fine in anyone's book." Adi explained who she is… So that's Heinrike? And she's a noble herself. Yet, she's looking at me with a stern look on her face! I needed to ponder who she is in a nutshell…
"Ahh… So she's the type of person who hates poor people." I said it bluntly as this caught her attention as she stomped the asphalt runway in visible anger.
"E-Excuse me!?" Heinrike continued. "You're saying that I dislike poor people?"
"I mean… That's what nobles are known to think of that way, right?" I asked her as she proceeded to facepalm in the process.
"Mein gott… You're truly are stupid…" Heinrike said with disapproval as Adi simply sweatdrops from this awkward conversation as Heidi lightly sighed.
"Don't mind her, Keiwa. Both of you are new to one another." Heidi said to me.
"U-Uh huh…" I nodded without speaking any further.
"Well then… I suppose it's time for us to part ways again. Though, Keiwa… Perhaps you'll see me in that new Spitfire Striker Arm that I managed to get requested." Adi said as this surprised me.
"R-Really!?" I asked as she nodded.
"Satake Labs, Misumi Heavy Industries, and the UK have it ready. So, it'll be available soon enough." Adi said with a small smirk on her face. That is until…
"Hey, Kaburagi! Hurry up! We are leaving!" Alexandra called me as Tomoko had managed to join up with their Strikers ready. Guess it's time for us to go home. Heidi is with us so yeah.
"R-Right! Coming!" I shouted at them before looking back at Adi. "We'll meet again… if time permits it."
"I'm sure you'll find a way, Keiwa. Keep pushing to your goals, okay?" Adi responded as I nodded. So, I got on the sleigh again as the Witches proceeded to take off once more as the sleigh got a boosted launch from the ski ramp of the carrier as I held on as we flew in the skies once more.
Third Person POV
"I must say, Commodore… Judging by your looks… You have an interest in Kaburagi, do you?" Takami asked her as she nodded with a smile.
"Of course I do." Adi continued. "I'm sure he'll have a long road ahead. No matter what stands in his way, he'll push through it. Even if it means facing another hardship in the future."
"That, I'm sure of me. Good luck on your trip back. My sister and brother will be heading back home to call it a night." Takami said as she looked at Tendou and Hikari. "Ready to go?"
"We are, Onee-chan. I'm really sleepy but I really need to prepare heading back to St. Petersburg tomorrow morning. One day of vacation sucks…" Hikari lightly complained as Tendou sighed.
"At least you're making friends there at the Brave Witches base so I'm not complaining…" Tendou responded as the two would follow Takami to head back home…
First Person POV
Background Music | Persona 4 Golden OST - A Sky Full of Stars
As the time passed we were flying on the way back… well, still holding on to the flying sleigh with the Witches pulling it. I begin to feel a chilling breeze through the starry night sky. Suddenly, I noticed to shift my head to my left where I saw another Witch flying next to us. She wore a tie with an insignia on it. But she has white short but longer hair, black cat ears and tail, and has a black Striker Unit. Not only that, she was carrying a nine-barreled rocket launcher and had a magic antenna. Who is she? Plus… she flew next to Heidi. The rest of the Witches don't even mind it… Do they know each other?
"Hello there, Heidemarie. Merry Christmas." The white haired Witch kindly said to her.
"Merry Christmas to you as well, Sanya." Heidi replied as one of the Typhoon Witches spoke.
"Why is a Orussian Witch doing here?" Waltraud asked.
"That is Sanya V. Litvyak… former 501st Night Witch and current member for the 502nd Brave Witches…" Rosalie continued. "Rumors that she volunteered to take part in the Battle of Helsinki against a Neuroi invasion previously. Even to the point where she gained the title… The Ghost of Helsinki."
"Hey uhh… Sorry to break the mood." I continued as everyone heard my voice. "I never heard of this Sanya before…"
"That's because it's her shortened name. Her true first name is Aleksandra, but everyone knows her as Sanya, because it's simple." Alexandra said to me as I tried to think.
"Err… Umm… Grr… Damn it my brain hurts from all of this understanding…" I said with some minor annoyance as I couldn't understand.
"Sanya, do you have anything to share with me?" Heidi asked Sanya as she nodded with a small, kind smile.
"I do. I got some radio stations that I can pass on to you." Sanya said as she and Heidi would proceed with their magic antennas.
"That will be nice. Thank you." Heidi said with her utmost kindness.
"Has anything been going on as of recently?" Sanya asked her as Heidi did nearly forget.
"A-Ah. Yes… you see…" As Heidi was about to finish her sentence.
"This guy here pissed off the Witches." Fumiyo spoke up as Sanya took her moment to look at me. Sanya then proceeds to control her speed as she moves herself to meet with me.
"Uhh… Sup?" I greeted her casually.
"Hello there." Sanya continued. "My name is Sanya V. Litvyak. You must be Keiwa Kaburagi, correct?"
"Yup. That'd be me… I gave them coal for uh… looking down on me." I shortly explained to her of the situation as Sanya proceeded to nod in understanding.
"Well, it is technically their fault for accusing you for taking the kill instead of Witches. But you are a special kind, Keiwa." Sanya said to me in understanding the moment this surprises me.
"Me? Special?" I asked.
"You give your all to protect everyone from harm. You even remind me of Miyafuji so much." Sanya said as she would mention Yoshika's name. Of course, I kinda sweatdropped a little as I had to respond.
"T-Thanks? But honestly… I'm more of a background character… A mob." I continued. "Plus, I'm somewhat a dickhead when it comes to my snarkiness. Though… I met Yoshika if you didn't know. We met in Yasoba and later in Shousetsu. She's a kind person. And I guess you'd agree with my side of personality that I'm kind and I protect people?"
"I see. If you see her, tell her I said hi. And yes, Keiwa. You protect people. Even if the odds are stacked against you, you got your team to back you up. Even those who you met." Sanya said with her kindness as this actually moved me. Motivated, actually.
"Y'know. That sounds motivational. Thanks, Sanya-san." I continued. "You're the only Witch whose being real with me. I mean… you're a Russian Witch, right?"
"Orussian." Sanya replied.
"Huh?" I asked in confusion.
"I'm actually an Orussian Witch. It's just the one letter to tell the two apart." Sanya explained the small concept of it… It's just Russia… with an 'O' at the beginning. So, Sanya flew forward to meet with Heidi. "Heidemarie. That is all I can provide but… I need to have talks with the Wing Commander."
Heidi nodded without speaking as Sanya would begin to have talks with Bronislava here.
"Safonov. I know this will come as a surprise… Commander Rall has given me orders that I will remain at your base as a temporary stay since you needed a Night Witch." Sanya said to her as it did surprise her.
"Really now? Very well, I will inform your commander that I will take you under my care. Even if it's temporary. I'm sure you'll get along, not just Typhoon Witches. But also the Typhoon Coffin Platoon." Bronislava as I spoke in.
"That's where I'm part of. We're… nothing special but… I guess we are? We're more comparable to special forces but we're pretty much a small fry support unit." I explained to her in more of a short form as she seemed a bit confused about it but understood what I said.
"As Kaburagi has said." Bronislava continued. "I'm sure you'll get along with everyone."
"Thank you. But I also came at a request." Sanya continued. "I'd be kind if you could bring your Witches and the Platoon to Eila's home country of Suomus… or rather Finland as it is called now."
"Hold up… Why there?" Fumiyo asked her about it.
"Her people… they're still suffering from the endless winter that will continue to blanket all over the country with snow. I just want to make Eila happy by asking you people for your assistance… Is that okay? I know I don't want you all to arrive immediately. But… I'd like to prepare in six days." Sanya explained the problem regarding Finland.
I started to recall what had been going on. I heard that Finland is suffering from this anomalous weather activity that involves magic in the atmosphere that messed up Finland's weather… and most likely smaller parts of Europe. People on the internet call it 'Fimbulvinter'. But, Finland is the only country that uses magic tech stuff. They have those magic heat barriers to keep the endless blizzard out, even so they use Witches to bear fire-based abilities to keep the city warm. Aurora and Eihn are from that country. Perhaps I should talk to the two more about it. They told me their side of their story so that made me understand it. And back to where what's going on… Bronislava made her decision.
"Very well, I will accept your request. Should it happen in six days… We will help the people of Finland when the time comes. Of course, do expect delays or other occurrences. Do you understand?" Bronislava said as Sanya nodded.
"Thank you, Safonov…" Sanya replied with a smile as she would look back at Heidi. "I assume you're staying here for a few days?"
"For that amount, yes. I need to see my Witches trained until things do happen. Perhaps we can become friends properly for once. Don't you think so?" Heidi said to the Orussian Witch as she nodded.
"Of course I'd like to." Sanya said with a smile as I would be the only person to watch their conversation.
"Keiwa-kun? Are you okay?" Tomoko asked me as I looked at her.
"Ahh, yeah. I'm alright." I continued. "You know, it's kind of nice to see Witches being reunited here in this world. A small world, to be exact."
"You do have the point. Hopefully, one day when the time comes. I can finally settle down and reunite with my boyfriend in the future. I'm… I'm sure you'll find it someday." Tomoko said as my mind recalled Adi as I snapped back to reality.
"Yeah… Hopefully I will." I replied as I continued to hold on the sleigh as the Witches pulled it while soaring through the skies. Even so, My mind is set for Adi… She needs me and I need her. No matter what, I'll fight to protect those who I care about. Even if it'll cost my life.
Background Music End
Unknown Location Nighttime - Clear Sky
Meanwhile… in some unknown location where it was all dark. All but a noise as there was a discussion going on.
"I appreciate your time coming here, Dr. Elegant… Fancy name, you have there.~ Perhaps you have a real name?" The voice of a woman spoke to the person..
"I have no interest in revealing my name. Please, belle dame. Just call me Dr. Elegant. It'll be easier that way." Elegant then continued. "Now then… Sevens. Why are you so eager to give us something we don't know about? This… Arcane energy you speak of."
"Consider this a gift to those people who call themselves… Who are they again? Sauveurs Luminaries?" Sevens asked as Elegant responded within the dark space where their appearances were concealed within the dim light.
"We are but… We've recently joined a new group, which is something greater. A World Without Borders." Elegant briefly explained about it.
"Interesting…" Sevens continued. "I've always had a fond interest in these Witches on Earth. They are an interesting bunch. How they are is different compared to those from them. For example, they're born just like a normal human, but we Moon Witches born from the Tree of Life. And the Earth Witches are bred for military combat when they're of age, while they have to grow your magic to become… peacekeepers."
"Never would I have thought to have a pleasant talk with a Witch from the Moon. If you're willing to teach me how Arcane magic works… Perhaps I can use it on one of my grand projects that I've been working on. Just one project, atleast." Elegant said with interest.
"Oh? Tell me, then. What project are you trying to use Arcane energy on?~" Sevens asked in curiosity.
"Omega…" Elegant continued. "A magic-powered war machine. A four legged tank that is to be powered by both magic and artificial intelligence. Just call it Project Omega, if you will.
"Project Omega… That's something you don't hear everyday, does it?" Sevens continued. "However… our talk will have to conclude here. I'm a busy Witch. If the Witches from the Moon such as me… sends out an law-abiding Witch from the Moon and finds me. I'd be pretty sad if things were about to happen to me. So why not call it here so I can continue hiding from my pursuers."
"…Very well." Elegant continued. "I will make full use of this gift you have given to us. For that, we're forever grateful. Keera would be pleased, too."
"Yes, yes. I'm very aware. Until then, try not to die, okay?" Sevens said she would leave the dark area in the process as Elegant did the same. And so… the darkness was silent once more.
[A NEW RESOLVE. SANYA'S TEMPORARY STAY. A NEW THREAT. AND A MYSTERIOUS BENEFACTOR.]
[TO BE CONTINUED…]
NEW OPENING - Ao no Sumika (Where Our Blue Is) by Tatsuya Kitani [Dima Lancaster ENG Cover Ver.] (Jujutsu Kaisen Season 2)
*Theme Plays*
The theme starts to show the droplet of water falling into the body of water as the scene transitions to show Keiwa sitting on a chair in a single corridor of the living quarter's hallways as the view shifts invertedly into the darkness as it transitions to show Adolfine walking towards the light within the corridor as the view flies past it as everything brightens.
In a season of blue
That seems to just continue forever
It's all in my view
Nothing comes between me and all the lines I see on this bright horizon
Then next scene shows the blue skies where the Witch's contrail was seen flying through the sky as the view shifts down to show Keiwa, Tomoko, Mio, Eihn, Aurora, and Alexandra walking down the peaceful streets of Shousetsu in the daytime as birds were seen flying over them. Then the next scene where Tomoko was calling them out to come there as the crossed the sidewalk. Then the next scene shows where they arrived to the train station as they were boarding on the train car as the background shows Adolfine coming out of the train car as the slows down to show Keiwa and Adolfine walking past each other as it shows the static of Heinrike kneeling down on the ground during the cold rain in Sedan.
I can feel the ground reflecting all these loud cicada sounds
This deafening hum is drowning out your humble silence
Then the scene shows Keiwa walking in the background to show the portrait of himself wielding a electric katana in a stance as it shows Adolfine appearing to walk with Keiwa where her portrait of herself using her MG42 as she was fighting on her Striker Unit. Both of them then looked at each other as they did a fist bump as smirks on their faces. Then it shows locations around the world in Italy where Hawke Enroy Yeager and Francesca Lucchini were with the Ardor Witches. In Finland were Eila and Aulis helping the civilians in Helsinki during the midst of the blizzard. And in France where Perrine Clostermann, Lynette Bishop, and Alain Lebled were standing on the airstrip outside of the 506th base along with the Noble Witches A-Unit and B-Unit but it shows Heinrike where she was being dragged away as she falls into the darkness.
These days will be gone even if I learn
The fact that your scent is just so much different, yet so familiar
In the depths of eternity that we've let go of
Then the next scene shows Chris Keera standing in the black void with the light shining above as Kuroda Kunika was standing behind and looking away where Keera wields her set of knives in her hand. Next shows Princess Shino who was seen sitting on her own throne with a smirk on her face. Then the next scene shows Zachery Goose walking past Adolfine at the Witch Corps HQ as he shows disdain on his face. Next shows Talon standing on the rooftops of Helsinki as he takes off his hood to reveal a scar on his face as he wields his magic rifle. And next shows the Witch from the Moon named Sevens who was seen sitting on her staff as she was floating in the air with the moonlight shining on her as she had a seductive smirk on her face. Then the next scene shows Adolfine resting on a bathtub filled with water as she proceeds to sink within the water as the darkness covers the screen as it transitions to show Keiwa kneeling on the ground within the void until Adolfine hugged him from behind as he opens his eyes from his tear drops as the scene transitions.
Our blue, it's still here and it lives on
Our blue is the clearest one I've known
Doesn't matter what kinds of words I choose
However close they get, they never seem to reach you
Then scene transitions to show Keiwa falling down from the sky above Paris where there was a Neuroi below him as he swings his katana down to cut through the laser as the Noble Witches joins him as they raised their shields as they fired upon the Neuroi where as Perrine uses her Tonnerre to cast blue lightning to damage the body to reveal the core. Keiwa then electrifies himself as he dives down, cutting through the Neuroi as the core was destroyed along with its body as Perrine was holding Keiwa's hand as he watched the blue sky.
It is a summer-like colorful love
Beautifully shining in my eyes and streaming down in silence
And the words that I've been trying to say are now stuck in the back of my throat again
Then the next scene transitions to show Gertrud and Jered were in the Striker Hangar where Erica was frantically running away from Hanna as Ursula was seen busy polishing the Striker Arm. Next shows Takami, Tendou, and Hikari standing at the edge of the IJN Shokaku as their hair was blown by the winds' breeze as they looked at the blue sky to show the Mighty Witches and Brave Witches soaring to leave a contrail. Next shows Sanya soaring through the night sky with a kind smile on her face as she holds her Fligerhammer. Next shows Shirley and Matt repairing someone's Striker Unit as the two were happily smiling at each other as if a joke happened. Next shows Minna and Richard holding Klaus' hand through the peaceful streets of Vienna as she had a soft smile on her face. Next shows Yoshika brooking the ground outside of the clinic where Ichigo returns there as she welcomes him back with a smile on her face until she looks at the blue sky to see the Witch's contrail.
"When's the next time that I see you?"
A voice that fades into the blue
Then the next scene shows Keiwa and Adolfine meeting each other in the crowded streets of Shibuya Crossing with a surprised look on their faces until they smiled at each other. The two would approach closer until he lends out his hand to her as she happily accepts. Then the next scene shows Keiwa and Adolfine walking together on the runway of the 506th Air Base in Shousetsu during the morning rise as he had a smile on his face as he stood there as he looked up at the sky. Mio, Tomoko, Aurora, Eihn, and Alexandra joins him along with the rest of the Typhoon Witches, Neu-Luftwaffe, Ardor Witches, Mighty Witches, Noble Witches, Brave Witches, along with the former members of the 501st Witches as they all stood there to look at the sky together as it ends with a single Witch's contrail soaring through the same blue sky as it fades to black.
Author's Note: Yeah, I know. I'm late for the whole Christmas stuff. Tons of halts and delays but that won't stop me, of course. But I'm glad that I managed to get this chapter done. This is the end of the New World Arc. But! It'll open up a new Arc which will act as a finale to Re:RISE as well as giving proper closure to the remaining 501st Witches as the world is about to reach the new generation where Witches will finally exist in the modern era proper. Hopefully, the next arc will tie up some loose ends as Keiwa has a long road ahead. But that's not all! New characters are coming into play such as Sevens. Just who is she, really? So please look forward to that. Until then, peace out.
-[The Glossary]-
[Aleksandra "Sanya" Vladimirovna Litvyak - Character]
Nationality: Orussia
Age: 16
Striker Unit: Mir-Gosudarstvo I-225 2nd Prototype
Weapon: Fliegerhammer
Desc: A Orussian Night Witch who was once a member of the famed 501st JFW Strike Witches. She is currently affiliated with the Russian Air Force Army's 31st Orussia Unit and currently the member of the 502nd JFW Brave Witches. She is sometimes referred to by the alias of, and became renowned as, the White Lily of Tsaritsyn due to her silver hair color. Back in her world, she was born in Moscow and raised in Vienna and is a talented pianist and singer who admired a famous Orussian Witch named Marisha Raskova from her homeland. She had a deep admiration towards Eila, who loves her dearly and is usually partners with her. But after she came to this world and found out that Eila had met her counterpart's descendant Aulis. She would try to find her counterpart's descendant whom she met Danisova Litvyak, who was recently killed by the hands of an ultranationalist group called the RFM (Republic Federal Movement). Realizing how this world is cruel because of constant human-to-human conflicts. She became fearful but later steeled her resolve to avenge Danisova against the RFM. After the RFM hid in the shadows. She would later join the 502nd to help with the night patrols and rarely explored outside of Russia at times. While understanding that Eila has spent more time with her descendant, she has already made her decision to no longer love Eila but instead, becomes just friends from now on. But her mission remains the same: to find her parents who were brought to this world like the rest.
[Heinrike Prinzessin zu-Sayn Wittgenstein - Character]
Nationality: Karlsland
Age: 18
Striker Unit: Jungfrau Ju-88
Weapon: MG151/20
Desc: One of the many but best Night Witches in Karlsland, she is the Vice Leader of the 506th JFW Noble Witches. Her lineage stems from Orussian aristocracy which later emigrated to Karlsland. The Wittgenstein is considered a distinguished clan with influence across various European states. After arriving in this world, she would later re-join the reformed 506th in Sedan, France to continue her duties. She would at times visit Karlsland (formally Germany) at her own will. She is known to be a serious Witch who prefers to see things done properly who has a strong sense of justice and protecting the weak. Though, she tends to be a little arrogant when someone tries to misinterpret her the wrong way. While she is the counterpart of Heinrich Prinz zu-Sayn Wittgenstein, she had already met a decadent named Helmuth Rudiger zu-Sayn Wittgenstein who works as a intern doctor at an hospital in Lyon. Unfortunately, the two never get along due to their ideals about nobility and dreams conflicting one another. Yet, she still worries him. However, she would be the first Witch to have a Karlslandian aircraft carrier be named after her under the Schnaufer-class. Of course, she would take that honor in order to make her country proud as it can be.
[Hikari Karibuchi - Character]
Nationality: Fuso
Age: 16
Striker Unit: Kawanishi N1K4-A Shiden Kai 4 Prototype
Weapon: Type-99-2 Model 2 Kai, FP-45 Liberator
Desc: She is the younger sister of Takami Karibuchi. After arriving in this world and after her family would adopt Tendou. She was given orders by Gundula Rall to return to the 502nd JFW in St. Petersburg to continue her duties as usual and potentially fight against the ultranationalist group called the RFM. She is a determined and good-willed individual who wants to prove herself to both her sister and her team. She is considered a partner of Kanno Naoe.
[Sevens - Character]
Nationality: UNKNOWN
Age: UNKNOWN (Appearing in the age of 25)
Desc: The mysterious individual who's spoken to Dr. Elegant. She is a Witch from the Moon, in shorter terms: A Moon Witch. It is unknown if the Witches from the Moon came from the world where the Witches in the 40s are from. But perhaps these Moon Witches had long existed from the dawn of the industrial age. She is responsible for providing certain people like Dr. Elegant the schematics and ideas of their "Arcane" magic and how it should be used. She picks no sides. But only to see the fruits of labor succeed and wish to see how the world itself will evolve. Of course, Moon Witches are completely different from Earth Witches in terms of what they do yet mysterious in so many ways.
[A World Without Borders - Topic]
Desc: A worldwide terrorist group consisting of a nation's dangerous terrorist groups with ridiculous ideals that are beyond understanding. Sauveurs Luminaries, an Anti-Witch Group, is part of it. As well as the RFM. However, AWWB has no leaders but founding members who have their own beliefs.