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 III - The Karlslandian Collaboration is Tough for a Mob
OPENING 2 - Gamushara by Miyuna (Black Clover)
*Theme plays*
The scene starts as it shows the scene of the world map where the scene dives right into the map of Karlsland as it changed into a bird's eye view where it shows Minna, Trude, and Erica on their Striker Unit as they were taking off from the airstrip and into the sky.
Jirijiri to unaru asufaruto ni
Tokeru yume, takaru ari no mure ga
The next scene shows Keiwa, Mio, Aurora, Eihn, and Alexandra as they were seen walking down the streets of Frankfurt during the morning rise. Then, Keiwa raises his left hand up into the sky as if he tries to grab the sun the moment he clenches it while the breeze of the wind blows their hair from the wind.
Tadashiku ikiru honnou naraba
Naze atashi wa koko ni iru no?
The next scene shows Tomoko cleaning her sword at the Striker Hangar where the Ottilie and the Typhoon Witches notifies her as she noticed to see Bronislava and Huberta, she sheathed her katana as she would stood up and would meet up with them.
Kitai doori nado gomen na no
Jibun de yareru kara sa
Then the next scene shows the vertical split screen contract of both Gertrud Barkhorn and Jered Barkhorn as they were looking away from the direction as the split screen swipes away as it focuses on Jered as he he was grabbed by his own shadow's large hand as he was being drowned away by darkness. Then the next scene shows Hanna-Justina Marseille, Raisa Pottgen, and Edytha Neumann as they revealed themselves from the spotlight as Hanna had a smirk on her face the moment her familiar activates until the next scene shows Adolfine Galland relaxing in her office as she had a smirk on her face as the scene transitions.
Dou datte ii rikutsu bakka haritsuita haribote no sekai wo ikiteku
Dareka no tame janai ima wa mada jibun no oitsuku made
Then the next scene shows the silhouette of Keiwa looking down a bit and within that shadow shows Adolfine as she was seen standing there with her familiar active as she had her hands to her hips causally as it switches to show the silhouette of Adolfine looking up a bit as it shows Keiwa wielding a katana as he was covered in his own electricity. Then the next scene shows Jered standing alone as he begins to fall to his knees during the heavy rain as he proceeds to shed a tear in sadness as it shows the vision of his past where he was young as his father would turn around and leave him behind as his hand would try to reach him but fades away into the light as it shows Jered's right eye as the reflection of it shows Gertrud hovering in the air as she wielded two MG42 with a stern look on her face.
Gamushara de jimen ketobashita karadajuu no
Kore ga aaah tsubasa hirogete
Donna mirai no mau yo kaze ukete jibun wo oikosu made
Then the next scene shows Keiwa falling down the sky as he saw the Typhoon Witches and the Neu-Luftwaffe as they were fighting the Neuroi in the skies above Austria as they were putting all of their efforts to defeat it. Then, Keiwa shifted his momentum as he dives faster until a Fw-190 plane passed through him as it shows a split screen of both Keiwa falling and Jered piloting a plane up towards the sky as it focuses on Keiwa as he unsheathed his katana as his blade becomes electrified as the blade shows the reflection of his past where the young Keiwa was walking towards the path within the light as the scene transitions to where Gertrud approaching Jered the moment she hugged him to comfort the latter as he opened his eyes suddenly as the tear continue to rundown from his eyes as well as Gertrud's until the illusion of angel wings appears behind Gertrud the moment the wing slowly wraps around them. Then the scene ends with Keiwa opening his eyes as he places his hand to his chest to feel his heartbeat, letting down his hand as he looked up to the sky along with the Typhoon Coffin Platoon, Typhoon Witches, and the Neu-Luftwaffe as it ends with them looking at the sky together to see the contrails in the sky.
12/7/2018 503rd JFW Base, Shousetsu, Japan Daytime - Clear Sky
First Person POV
Ahh, yes… the days are going by as usual. It was another boring day here at Shousetsu here in this base. Aside from all of the endurance training that Alexandra had to put us and Eihn through. But it was the day where a C-47 Skytrain transport was on the runway where all of us. I mean… both the Typhoon Witches and the Typhoon Coffin Platoon are boarding onto the plane. All of their Striker Units are being loaded onto the plane as the workers of the plane loaded them up safely. So, what's going on, exactly? Good question. Because Bronislava received an invitation to train with the Witches from Karlsland. More specifically, the Neu-Luftwaffe. Don't get me wrong, I've never been to Karlsland in my life. Though, it was used to be called Germany before the Witches came. One thing for sure is… they watched our world's history involving Germany and many atrocities that the country has committed. I can tell they were ashamed of themselves and showed great hatred towards Nazis so that's pretty much it. Now… As for us… we all gathered here and lined up in a formation as both Bronislava, Alexandra, and Huberta stood there as we looked at the three.
"As you were all aware. We are traveling to Karlsland to land at the Neu-Luftwaffe as part of our collaboration since we will stay there for three days. Girls, consider this a lucky moment where you'll get to learn and experience what they can do. This is a great opportunity where not only you can train. But to spar with them. Remember that Karlsland is still one of our great allies here in this world and we cannot afford to waste it." Bronislava explained as Huberta spoke.
"That's right. As of currently, Karlsland is dealing with an issue similar here in Japan. Of course, I'm talking about the infamous Anti-Witch Groups that have been causing trouble back in our country. The recent terrorism attack was two hours ago in Frankfurt. As a result, we will train with them. Alexandra?" Huberta then shifts her eyes at her as she speaks.
"Thank you, von Bonin." Alexandra continued. "Typhoon Coffin. Your task is to eliminate those Anti-Witch Groups in Karlsland should they strike again. Which is where you will come in. And remember this, the Witches of Karlsland are extremely disciplined so treat them with respect. Are we clear?"
"Yes, Ma'am!" Me, Aurora, Mio, and Eihn responded quickly.
"Good…" Bronislava continued as she looked at her Witches. "Girls, time to board!"
"Yes, Ma'am!" The Typhoon Witches responded as they would go first to board in the transport plane as I simply watched.
"I must say, Keiwa…" Eihn said as he pondered the fact. "I have never gone to Karlsland in my life. What is it like there?"
"Sorry to break it to you, I haven't set my foot there, too. I only saw postcards when it was Germany at the time. However, I do know that Minna is from that country. She's been very popular within the idol scene if you ask me. Hell, she was even featured in some Japanese talk shows once." I said to the Finnish shielder as he pondered more and more…
"Hmm… Well either way, Miss von Bonin said that the Anti-Witch Group attacked the air base there. It should be no surprise that we'll be sent there to guard this base if she tells us to do… or just hunt them." Eihn said as I would assume that hunting them would be the best case scenario.
"You're kinda right on that… However, I must thank you for providing me with this katana, Mio-san." I then shifted towards Mio where I held my new katana as I opened the blade where it was emitting out magical energy… She said that this sword is brimming with magic as it was folded 1,000 times, making the sharpness of the blade extremely durable in order to have my Thunder Magic compatible.
"Pay it no mind, Kaburagi. I only did what's best to help you." Mio replied with a kind smile as I sheathed the blade. I looked at Aurora who didn't seem to mind as she was being dragged along for a ride. Again, this is Aurora's responsibility to look after her Slave to keep him in check. It's like putting the dog on a leash. So, I looked at Tomoko who would be the last to board as I followed her.
"Well, Tomoko-san." I continued the moment we all boarded in as I sat next to her because of reasons. "Seems we'll be far from home, huh?"
"It would appear so. I've been to Karlsland previously back in our world but I'm curious to see what your world will look like in terms of advancements." Tomoko wondered about it as I chuckled.
"You'll find out in due time. To tell you the truth, it'll be my first time here. So we're pretty much strangers in a foreign land… Except you, Ottilie. I assume you've been to Karlsland in this world?" I then shifted my eyes towards Ottilie who was remaining calm but remained patient as she looked at me right after I asked her.
"Me? I've been there once before I was assigned here in Japan." Ottilie continued. "Boy, I'm stoked to meet the Karlsland Trio again!~"
"Karlsland Trio?" I asked her as she looked at me with my dumbfounded look.
"Tell me you have not heard of them, do you?" Ottilie said with a sigh and a facepalm.
"Sadly, no." I responded as Mio would speak up about this.
"The Karlsland Trio… They're considered to be Karlsland's best aces in the military. Of course, these three were my former allies at the time." Mio continued as I listened. "For example, you got Minna Dietlinde-Wilcke. Second is Gertrud Barkhorn. And the third is Erica Hartmann, who is still considered the best of the best in this current world."
"Ahh, now that you mentioned Minna… I assume she and the two of those Witches are once part of…?" I asked her as she nodded.
"That's correct." Mio continued. "Me, Wilcke, Barkhorn, and Hartmann were all once part of the 501st JFW Strike Witches."
"I assume you're happy to reunite with them, Sakamoto?" Galina asked her about it as her expression changed where she wasn't smiling at all.
"To be honest… I honestly don't know. Now that I work for this platoon. I'm not entirely sure of how they will react." Mio said with uncertainty as we looked at her…
"Well, nevermind all of the bad things here and there. We are going to Karlsland, right?" Eihn said as he looked at us.
"Of course we are depending on how long we'll reach there." Bronislava said as the plane began to move and proceeded to take off. I looked outside of the window to see the entire view of Shousetsu as we were flying our way to the European country…
"Seems we'll be far from home for sure." I said to myself as I decided to bring out my phone and check out the latest Witch Race Grand Prix which was happening in Tokyo. Tomoko then peeked to look at it.
"Is that seriously what you're going to do?" Tomoko said in a deadpanned tone as I continued watching where my favorite racer known as Red Lightning as she crossed the finish line in first place.
"Yeah. And look at this! Red Lightning just hit first place. I put my money to bet on her just to see her win and she did so!" I continued. "And the next race is about to start in ten minutes."
"Really now? Who are you going to bet again?" Tomoko asked as I had a smirk on my face.
"Of course, It's going to be Red Lightning again. If she can hit first place a second time… My prize money's gonna be loaded sooner or later." I replied to her until I met Alexandra's scowling face…
"Ahem… Kaburagi?" Alexandra said to me. "What did I tell you the last time? I will not allow you to put any more bets on this trivial race. Are we clear?"
"Geez, such a party pooper…" I sighed, putting my phone away.
"What was that…?" Alexandra spoke as I jolted a bit from her hostility.
"N-Nothing!" I replied quickly.
"Anyways… Have I ever told you all about my story regarding the Battle of Helsinki?" Eihn continued as we all looked at him.
"I mean, you mentioned it before. But you or Aurora-san have never told us your side of the story." I said to the two as Eihn would pretty much agree.
"You are correct there, Keiwa." Eihn continued. "I… I was once part of Finland's elite knights known as the Vartijat. It was part of this government project that involved selected Knights wielding magic-powered armaments. Mine here is the Shield that I was bestowed with. This is named Valkoinen Torni. It is said that this magic-crafted shield is blessed with the Witch's Magic of Ice. Sadly, none of us knights knew how to use its full potential."
"Sentinel and White Tower all translate in Suomisian, or Finnish in your perspective." Aurora continued. "As for the Battle of Helsinki… the Neurois tried to invade the capital city in the midst of the blizzard storm. Civilians were either injured or killed… Some died of hypothermia because of how extremely cold it is."
"Wait, is Finland always that cold?" I asked her.
"Back in my world, yes. But we don't have these types of blizzards like this. I can only assume that our magic has flowed onto the atmosphere and the earth itself. Thus, our magic… may have caused an endless blizzard that has been going in for eleven months. So listen to our story. Of how it all began…" Aurora said as we all listened to both Aurora and Eihn's side of the story.
[Flashback - The Battle of Helsinki]
-BATTLE OF HELSINKI-
TRACKING… Eihn and Aurora Juutilainen
LOCATION… Helsinki, Finland
DATE… November 28, 2018
Third Person POV
Finland, the land of cold and snow. A once peaceful capital city of Helsinki which held the title for the happiest city of Finland. However, it was just a lie. After the Witches came to this world, their magic created abnormal weather through a magical anomaly. Thus, Helsinki and all over Finland was already suffering an endless blizzard and a blanket of snow. However, there would be a solution where the Finnish government would use the Witches and magic to solve the issue of the endless blizzard with the volunteering of Witches who bear warmth-based or fire-based magic. Of course, magic-powered heaters were created that would negate the unforgiving blizzard which would later on where Finland gets help from Karlsland to create many large magical heat barriers that covers Helsinki and other neighboring cities in Finland. Of course, the civilians continue to struggle against the cold as the warmth still gives people hope. Hoping that there would be solutions to end the blizzard for good. Though, the city wouldn't achieve peace… The Neuroi had seemingly arrived and begun their attacks, the magical heat barriers that helped give civilians warmth were gone as there was destruction all over the city. The battle of course started two days ago. Finnish Air Force's Suomisian Witches under the many units such as the 86th Suomisian Witches Unit are considered to be the strongest. There, the Witches had to deal with extremely low visibility as they flew in the sky to fire their World War II weaponry against their old enemy. But below where the Finnish Battalion Force's own Tank Witch units were led by none other than Aurora Edith Juutilainen. But in the sky where the famed Diamond Ace named Eila fought against the Neuroi with ease as it didn't bother her at all. But inside the APC where it was traversing through the blanketed streets of Helsinki, of course, the APC is powered by magic as long as there is fuel. But inside the armored vehicle were Eihn, who was seen adjusting his greaves on his white pristine armor. As he was listening to one of the commanding leaders of the elite forces known as the Vartijat.
"Listen up, everyone. These Neurois are losing numbers slowly all thanks to their effort. What concerns us is the Walkers that they've deployed. The ground soldiers require our help in protecting the mall filled with civilians that have evacuated there. The first line has been broken through and we'll help the second line and protect it. Any questions?" The commander asked them to be one of the knights who also wore the same armor as Eihn and the others since it only consisted of six of them. "What is it, Talon?"
Talon, a member of the Vartijat as he wielded a strange but conventional magic-powered rifle. He then proceeds to speak up.
"With all due respect… All six of us don't even know how to unlock its potential. Are you really sure that our weapons are powered by magic? Witch Magic?" Talon asked as the commander spoke.
"Of course it is. The government placed great trust in us. If the Witches can use magic to enhance and fly. Then so can we. Sagelight's Finland Branch was kind enough to greenlight this project. Again, do not worry about it. Use these armaments to stop the Neuroi. As well as these highly crafted armor designed to repel a Neuroi laser." The commander said until…
[FWEEEEM! RUMBLE!]
The Neuroi laser took notice of the moving APC as it fired a laser. Fortunately, the APC's Automatic Witch Barrier System (AWBS) was installed as it raises up a shield to block the incoming laser attack as the shield disappears. Inside the APC was some rough shaking.
"Status on the vehicle!" The commander asked.
"The shields dropped to 75%! The Neuroi in the air is the one responsible for hitting us but we aren't hurt!" The driver said as he stopped the APC. "Either way, we're arrived outside of the mall!"
"Good… Knights! Today's the day that the victory will be ours! Get out there and make your country proud!"
"Yes, sir!" The Knights along with Eihn compiled the moment the APC door opens up as they exited out of the vehicle where they've begun their counter attack on the ground Neurois.
Meanwhile where the soldiers who were struggling to defend… Aurora along with her own unit of Tank Witches she was leading. Aurora had shot the legs of the Walker to cripple it.
"Alright, girls! You know what you're here for. Get in there and drive out the Neuroi forces and assist the soldiers! We can't afford any more casualties." Aurora commanded the girls as they all complied. They started to fight back as some Tank Witches rushed in to help the soldiers who were wounded or suffering from their cold because their portable magic heat lamps were damaged. Suddenly, Aurora looked up at the sky where her sister would hover there to meet her.
"Sis, you okay?" Eila said to her sister as she nodded.
"Of course, Eila. Your tarot cards and foresight never ceased to amaze me." Aurora continued. "So how's the situation?"
"So far, the main Neuroi forces have begun retreating as the ground forces are being destroyed by these Vartijat guys." Eila said as she looked at them where Talon looked through the mana sight as it conjured a 2x sight zoom on the magic ring on the top of the gun's railing as it was charging up his magic rifle as layers of magic circles appeared from the gun barrel as it fired a beam of magic as it managed to damage one of the Walkers but more still arrived by numbers.
"Either way, keep it up. Maybe one day Sanya would be proud of your achievements." Aurora said with a small smirk.
"Of course she'll be proud of me! Just watch me, sis!" Eila said with a smile as she flew up.
Then… Eihn arrives at the scene as he uses his Tower Shield to bash the Walker away after he charges in.
"Is everyone alright!?" Eihn called the soldiers.
"W-We are…" The Finnish soldier continued. "But we're taking too many losses here! But I'm glad you guys arrived to save our asses."
"You can thank me later. Focus on helping the civilians in the mall, go!" Eihn said to the trooper as he started moving.
"Eihn, I'll head to the rooftops on the building to scout out for the remaining enemy forces." Talon said to him as he nodded.
"Alright, I'll remain here and protect the mall." Eihn said back as Talon would grab out his grapple shot as he latched onto the roof, flying over there in order to get a better vantage point. "Now then… Foul Neuroi scum…! You shall not trespass any further! You fight me, Eihn of the Vartijat!"
The Neuroi Walker screeched as Eihn took a deep breath and focused on his opponent ahead.
"Now… Let us do-" Eihn was interrupted when…
"WATCH OUT!" Aurora tried to call him until…
[FWEEEM! PIERCE!]
"GUH!?" A sudden laser attack came from a Walker as it pierced his armor within his chest. He coughs out blood the moment he falls onto the floor.
"NO!" Aurora then fired her tank cannon as it left open a core. "EILA, NOW!"
"On it!" Eila replied as she aimed her weapon and fired at the core, destroying it.
Then, the two would approach to see Eihn who was shot and wounded greatly from an attack that was too sudden. He had a hard time breathing as Eila would become very doubtful about Finland's elite knights as she had her arms on her hips.
"See, sis? These Vartijat are a complete joke." Eila said with a unamused tone as Aurora sighed and kneeled over to Eihn.
"Now's not the time to criticize, Eila! He needs our help!" Aurora said as she looked at him. "Hey! Are you okay?"
"S-So much… for my effort…" Eihn said weakly as he started coughing out blood a bit.
"This isn't your fault. Look, do you have a name?" Aurora asked.
"Eihn…" Eihn said.
"Look, Eihn. You're not going to make it if the blizzards take you." Aurora said as she paused for a moment to think.
"Hey, sis. You ever thought of doing the… you know? Contract thingy?" Eila then mentioned her sister about it.
"That's… that's a good idea." Aurora replied back as she looked at him. "Eihn, right now. I'll give you a second chance in life if you accept my contract. But first… your Desires… tell me them."
"My… My Desire… I merely wish and care to protect those who I love dear… along with the people…" Eihn said weakly as Aurora responded.
"A good Desire… I will take that. And the last question… Are you willing to abandon your humanity to protect the sake of others?" Aurora said to him as he nodded.
"Of course…" Eihn replied as Aurora placed her hand on his chest as the magical circle appeared below them.
"From this day forward, you'll become a Slave… my Slave." Aurora said as the brightness consumes everything within the area.
[Flashback End]
"And after I was made into her Slave, I unlocked my shield's potential of Ice Magic as a result of her within me and managed to repel the Neuroi Walkers in the process. Of course, after the battle was hard-fought and earned. I was discharged from the Vartijat. But after finding out that the Juutilainen came from a military family line… I decided to adopt a name to follow that path. And that is how I met you and everyone here during the battle at the Sea of Japan." Eihn explained everything about what happened next.
"And yet, he still continues to use our name." Aurora continued. "Weirdly enough, he never had a last name to begin with."
"That is because of the Vartijat code. To become a Knight, one must discard their last name and start anew. Eihn is my real name but others prefer to go by callsigns." Eihn continued. "Therefore, I made a decision to call myself Juutilainen."
"That's… interesting. I never knew Finland would suffer such an unforgiving blizzard in the middle of a battle." I said with some awe. "But it's surprising that your country would find ways to counter the cold through heat. Both Witches and Magic-based technology."
"Don't forget, Finland's military even have Magic-powered APCs that are installed with AWBS. While it's in a concept stage it worked like wonders. Thank Karlsland for creating that technology for us." Eihn said. "Now… I believe that concludes our side of the story. Hopefully you've learned something new in life."
"I did." I continued. "I think all the Witches here pretty much understand it now."
"This Talon guy… I assume he's your friend?" Fumiyo asked Eihn about this person. Though, I was expecting to see if Eihn would say that he is but… it frowned a bit.
"We used to but…" Eihn continued after the pause. "There was a fallout between us knights. After I became Aurora's Slave… Talon lashed out towards Aurora and blamed her assuming she robbed my humanity away. To protect her… I decided to leave Vartijat through my own volition. Of course, Eila was nice to provide me refuge with her descendant who is the counterpart of Eila named Aulis. Then after that, I found out that Aurora left for Japan and followed her there."
"Talon… huh… Seems like he changed, huh?" I asked him about this guy as he shook his head.
"Sadly, I do not know…" Eihn said as he looked at us. "Perhaps it's best to leave things well enough alone. For now… why not enjoy our flight trip to Karlsland, yes?"
"Yes, we shall. Though, it's interesting to learn the side of your story." Bronislava continued. "But either way, I'm glad to see that Finland's still fighting through the cold."
You know, listening to their backstory made me understand something… To become a Witch's Slave. You must throw away your Desires, then you must discard your humanity. Knowing Tomoko, she knew the risks. I'm no longer human but… I still feel human the moment I reflect on myself. Maybe… just maybe… But one thing pops up in my mind… Adolfine Galland… the Witch of my dreams. My heart belongs to her, yes. Though, I can tell that she is back in her own country… Perhaps I can call her whenever there's time? For now, I should focus on my task before I have a chance to talk to her again.
12/8/2018 Neu-Luftwaffe, Frankfurt, Karlsland Morning - Clear Sky
After a day of traveling… of course, there were stopping points where the transport plane had to land in Austria for a refuel then traveling to Karlsland. Apparently, their base is situated here in Frankfurt. Of course, we had a good sleep previously back at those living quarters they provided us but here we are… the plane begins to land on the runway of this airstrip as the plane begins to slow down. And then… Bronislava stood up as we looked at her as she spoke.
"It appears that we've arrived. Let us get off and meet the Wing Commander of this base, shall we?" Bronislava said as we all stood up and got off the transport plane. The moment we got out… I saw something that was interesting… The air base is loaded with Witches… Karlslandian Witches who are training and there are some WWII planes there as they were taking off from the sky. There are some male workers here but they're busy as always.
"I gotta say… this is my first time being here…" I said in slight awe as Eihn would agree with me.
"Same…" Eihn replied.
However, we followed Bronislava, Alexandra, and von Bonin the moment we arrived to meet someone who runs this base… Wait… I know her! The same woman with red hair and a beautiful face… It's Minna! Holy shit! Not only is she an idol… She also runs this base, too!? Also, there are two of them with her. One with brown twin-pigtailed hair… and one with short blonde hair. Of course, they're wearing their Karlslandian uniforms. Then, Bronislava would walk up to Minna as the two saluted.
[Minna-Dietlinde Braun-nee-Wilcke - Wing Commander of the Neu-Luftwaffe - Karlsland]
"Wing Commander Wilcke of the Neu-Luftwaffe." Bronislava continued as she offered her a handshake. "My name is Bronislava Safonov, Wing Commander of the 503rd JFW Typhoon Witches. We're looking forward to training with you and the Witches here for three days."
"It'll be our pleasure to keep you company, Safonov." Minna said as she would accept her hand. Then, she noticed Mio who was with us. "Sakamoto?"
"It's… been a while, Wilcke." Mio said to her as she approached her.
"Major…" The pigtailed girl said to Mio.
"Glad to see you alive as usual, Major." The blonde one spoke in with a smirk on her face.
"Thank you, Hartmann." Mio continued. "There is no need to call me Major anymore. I'm just a member of this platoon I joined at the Commodore's request."
"H-Hold on, Sakamoto!" I ran up to her and looked at the three Karlslandians. "You know them?"
"We do." Minna continued as she looked at me. "All four of us were once part of the 501st JFW Strike Witches."
"I see… that's some deep history." I said as I pondered about it but…
"By the looks of you… you must be Keiwa Kaburagi, yes?" Minna asked me as I noticed her. Oh shit! The idol knows who I am!? I started to blush a little as I tried to hide it.
"Y-Yes, that would be me. How did you know?" I asked her as one of them spoke.
"You were on the news on how you took down a Neuroi during the battle at the Sea of Fuso." The pig-tailed girl spoke… It's called the Sea of Japan… "After you pulled it off, some Witches all over the world are in complete disbelief that a male like you took it down yourself."
She then mentioned it as I looked behind me where the group of Karlslandian Witches snarling at me with anger and hatred
Karlslandian Witch 1: "Drop dead!"
Karlslandian Witch 2: "Get the hell out of our country!"
Yup… that's the answer I wanna hear…
"Ladies, please. Remain calm. Keiwa bears no ill-will towards you." Eihn took notice of this where the Witches saw his beauty as their expression changed from anger to pleasant. Yup… he's liked alright.
"Right… you never told me your names aside from Minna. Who even are you two?" I asked them how they would respond.
"I am Gertrud Barkhorn, Captain of the Karlsland Neu-Luftwaffe. And this one here is-" Gertrud was interrupted.
"Erica Hartmann. You can call her Trude or Trudy if you want.~" Erica said as Trude looked at her with a panicked but infatuated look.
"Hartmann! Show some respect while we're here!" Trude retorted right back at her as she snickered.
[Gertrud Barkhorn - Captain of the Neu-Luftwaffe - Karlsland]
[Erica Hartmann - Flight Lieutenant of the Neu-Luftwaffe - Karlsland]
"Anyways, we saw what you did. We pretty much don't hate you and all. But you were badass when you struck it down with lightning to kill it like it was nothing!" Erica was kinda excited about how I did. However…
"I'm surprised that you're well known here now, Kaburagi." I noticed Huberta as she looked at me. However, the three would look at her. "Oh yes, it's good to see you three again. Just a good ol happy reunion, huh?"
"It certainly is, von Bonin. I assume you'll be joining us?" Minna asked her.
"Not really, my job is to look after them. My days of being a Witch are over it seems. I don't think my Striker Unit would be willing to let me fly once again." Huberta said to them.
"That is understandable, von Bonin. There is no need to concern yourself with it." Minna responded back.
"By the way… Huberta said that your base was attacked yesterday, right?" I asked her as she would nod.
"That is correct." Minna continued. "Just yesterday, the Anti-Witch Groups used gas trucks disguised as charity vans and rammed it into our base. Some of the guards are killed in the assault, but fortunately, none of the Witches are killed in the crossfire."
"That's true. We weren't prepared at the time but the Witches were quick to handle them." The voice of a male spoke as he arrived to stand near Minna.
"Ahh, welcome back, Dear. I assume you had talks with Professor Hartmann?" Minna asked him as he nodded.
"Yeah. We've been discussing asking other military bases to provide the Witches more usage of modern weaponry." The man continued. "Oh? I hear there's a collaboration going on. And that famous Kaburagi guy is here."
"That is correct. Everyone, I'd like you to meet my husband Richard Braun. He acts as my assistant when it comes to paperwork." Minna then introduced us to her husband named Richard as he greeted us. However, he was seen carrying a young small baby as he was lightly cradling it.
[Richard Braun - Husband and Assistant to Minna - Karlsland]
"Pleasure to meet you. And this is our daughter, Ann. Minna here doesn't have the time to cuddle her so I have to take the job of looking after both my wife and daughter." Richard said as Minna would clear her throat to speak.
"Ahem… as for the aftermath of the attack. The United Nations Security Council has declared that Anti-Witch Groups are labeled as a terrorist group and its members unanimously followed suit." Minna then explained the aftermath.
"T-This is horrendous!" Ottilie continued in slight horror. "Why would they even try to hurt our Empire!? What's their goal!?"
Karsland isn't even an Empire anymore in this world, Ottilie…
"Most likely to disrupt the harmony between humanity and Witches, it seems." Minna continued. "But regardless, with today's collaboration training with the Typhoon Witches. I'm certainly looking forward to it. Shall we get started, Safonov?"
"We should, Wilcke. Please, lead the way. As for the Typhoon Coffin Platoon, Serbanescu. I leave it to you." Bronislava said to her as the rest of them would proceed their training right away. That only leaves me, Alexandra, Mio, Aurora, Eihn, Trude, and Erica.
"Thank you, Safonov. Ahem…!" Alexandra then continued as we looked at her. "Listen up! You all have your reasons. The Anti-Witch Groups shall not be forgiven for their attack on Karlsland. They can adapt and improve, sure. But the four of you are capable of stopping them with no problem at all! Thus, we must be on alert at all times! Are we clear?"
"Yes Ma'am!" We all complied.
"Good, starting today, you will patrol the air base to look out for enemies. Dismissed!" Alexandra said to us as she would turn around and go on her own. Most likely catching up with Bronislava.
"Man… I hate patrols…" I said to myself as I looked at Trude who was seen talking to Erica.
"For once in a while… I respect Serbanescu for her deep admiration of discipline. Let that sink in, Hartmann." Trude said to her as she would yawn.
"Honestly, I wouldn't even imagine it." Erica continued as she continued to look at us. "Oh by the way Keiwa, Eihn. One more thing. We Karlslandian have deep hatred for your world's history involving Nazis."
"That's correct…" Trude said with her serious composure and expression as she looked at us. "Don't you ever compare us to those psychos. And Karlsland is not like them. I suggest you don't talk about those people while you're here. Understand?"
"C-Crystal clear…" Me and Eihn spoke in unison. It'd be best not to offend them. As a side character… a Mob. I must form friendships to get along with them.
"By the way, Barkhorn." I continued. "What's with the discipline, exactly? I can understand why your military is widely known for its sheer power."
"Because that's how Karlsland's Armed Forces are. It's about discipline, strategy and leadership. Wish I could say the same for one nation across the ocean." Trude spoke about it as I pondered.
"And our country's focused on self-defense and honor… I think?" I replied as I shrugged it off. "However, since my name is heard all across the world… I might as well start acting one. Gertrud Barkhorn, Erica Hartmann. I wish to form a healthy relationship just to get along-"
"Hold it!" The voice of a young woman shouted as we all saw someone heading our way… A slightly tanned woman with blonde long hair as she wore goggles and a black Karlsland uniform as she was approaching us for some reason.
"Marseille, just what on emperor's name are you-" Trude tried to ask her as she glared at her back.
"This doesn't concern you, Barkhorn. So back off." She retorted at her the moment she approached me. "So, you must be a Fusoan who took down a Neuroi, is that right?"
"I'm Japanese. Also my name is Keiwa Kaburagi." I corrected her as she had a serious look on her face as she crossed her arms.
"Kaburagi, right. I believe that fluke is what you pulled off." The Witch said to me as she wasn't buying it.
"Okay, look… I don't even know you? Who are you anyways?" I asked her for a name. And so she did.
"You want my name? Fine. My name is Hanna-Justina Wallia Rosalind Sieglinde Marseille of the Neu-Luftwaffe, otherwise known as the Star of Africa!" The Witch named Hanna introduced herself as my head started to hurt the way she introduced herself… "I also happen to be part of the 31st Africa Squadron at the time, one of the Karlsland's best aces!"
[Hanna-Justina Wallia Rosalind Sieglinde Marseille - Flight Lieutenant of the Neu-Luftwaffe, Ex-Member of the 31st Africa Squadron, Star of Africa - Karlsland]
"TOO LONG!" I shouted to retort because of her long name.
"I may be famous back in our world. But I don't see you as famous just yet. So tell me…" Hanna continued. "How did you even take it down?"
"This." I showed her my sheathed katana as she looked at it. Then, she would scoff it off as she had a cocky smile on her face.
"You think I would believe that? Please, I know only the Major used a sword in combat. And I don't believe someone like you can obtain a kill with a sword." Hanna would try to rub that wound on me. Alright… if you wanna play that game. Then so be it.
"Heheheh… AHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!~" I started to laugh at her response. Seriously… What a joke.
"What's so funny…" Hanna asked.
"Sure, you may think of that. But tell me, are you really the Star of Africa? Back in your world, sure. But here? You're irrelevant. Your title doesn't mean shit in this world…" I said with a cocky smirk on my face as this caught her attention.
"…Excuse me?" Hanna said in confusion but was visibly mad.
"You heard me. You're nothing." I continued. "I killed a Neuroi with my Thunder Magic because I want to prove to the world that a man like me can fight a Neuroi. And what do you do in life? You just train here in this base everyday in hopes to be better. But in truth? You're just a third-rate Witch who has no sense of respect just to tarnish the country's core principles: Discipline, Strategy, and Leadership. Oh wait.~ You disregarded all of that just to get your last twelve seconds of fame.~ Like a fallen star fading into nothingness."
Now that's what I call a good roast. And a fine one at that, too. However… Hanna proceeded to tighten her fists as she was furious at what I said. Good, let it out.
"Third-rate…!? You got some fucking nerves to call me that, Keiwa… Very well…!" Hanna continued as she pointed at me. "I, the Star of Africa, will take you on to prove to you that I'm still the best ace out there. I will win. Mark my words! So be ready in twenty minutes! A con man like you would never stand a chance!"
So, Hanna pretty much storms off after what happened. Trude and Erica approached me as one of them sighs.
"Honestly… Never would I think that you'd pick a fight against Marseille…" Trude continued. "But still, are you sure that you wish to pick a fight against her?"
"I couldn't care less. If she won't listen to reason. Then I might as well show her but… I never fought a Witch before…" I said to her as Erica spoke up.
"Usually, if a person fights against a Witch in their Striker Unit or that new Striker Arm, you'd die pretty quickly. But now that I see the side of you. I can totally understand what you're capable of. Just like how Trude got a six pack on her abs by just doing 100 push ups, 100 sit-ups, 100 squats, and a 10 kilometer run every single day! Isn't it right, Trudy?~" Erica would look at her friend as Trude lightly baps her on the top of her head.
"D-Don't reveal my secret training regimen in front of others, Frau! Of course I have a six pack but that's not the point!" Trude responded as she was a bit flustered.
"C'mon, your sister Chris has been watching you do it all the time and thinks of doing it, too.~" Erica added as this caused Trude to push away from her.
"Leave my sister out of this!" Trude retorted as her face blushed until she managed to regain her composure and clear her throat. "Anyways, as much as I want to help you… I can't."
"That's fine." I continued. "Still… I need to find a way to know more about her. All the information I need would be great…"
"I can provide you with information if you truly wish." The voice of a young girl spoke as we turned around to meet a short-hair blonde who also wore her uniform but in a different color as she wore a military cap as well along with her goggles hanging by her neck. "Welcome to the Neu-Luftwaffe, Keiwa Kaburagi."
"Oh, another one who knows me. I assume you have a name?" I asked her as she nodded.
"My name is Raisa Pottgen, formerly of the 31st Joint Fighter Africa Squadron attached to the Karlsland Neu-Luftwaffe. I'm truly sorry that Tina had to go out of her way to pick a fight against you." Raisa continued as she felt worried about it. "I wouldn't imagine how Neumann would react to this since she is at the Witch Corps right now."
[Raisa Pottgen - Pilot Officer of the Neu-Luftwaffe, Ex-Member of the 31st Africa Squadron - Karsland]
"Tina?" I asked her.
"It's her shortened name when I call her. Plus… she's my wingman during our time back in the war of Africa." Raisa continued. "I saw what you're capable of during the Battle of Sea of Japan recently. If you want information. I'd be happy to provide you."
"Really? That sounds nice. So… Listen to me." I asked her. "I wish to know more about her if you don't mind."
"As far as I know… Tina is known to be very competitive." Raisa continued. "I remember one time that she considered Hartmann here as her rival."
"Geez… no need to remind me why. We're both ultra aces but she's annoying at times to beg for my attention…" Erica spoke as she would mention it… Huh… I guess the two have a history with each other.
"Anyways, while she is an ultra ace. She is known for her aggressive flying. I see what Tina can do with her skill." Raisa continued. "And her ability she uses is called Deflection Shooting."
"Deflection Shooting? What's that?" I asked.
"Tina's Deflection Shooting… most likely differs from the normal said ability name. How should I put this…" Raisa then thinks as she speaks. "It would appear as if, while both parties are in the middle of performing complex maneuvers, she would send bullets at places where there isn't anything. And not only that… the target flies into her line of fire on its own accord. I understand you're confused as I am but it's just words, apparently. I… I hope my information proved useful, Kaburagi."
"Y-Y-Yeah… Thank you, Raisa-san… I think my brain hurts from trying to understand her ability…" I continued as I calmed down. Either way, I think I understand… she thinks too full of herself due to her competitive nature." I continued as I pondered about Hanna. "But if she is known to be aggressive… Erica-san, is she always like this as of today? Even when back in your world?"
"Hmm? I mean, she always is. Not even Minna could try to knock some sense into her. But the only Witch I know who's capable is Neumann." Erica said as I tried to think more but…
"I think that's enough information I need. Raisa-san…" I looked at her. "Thank you for proving it to me about your friend. With it, I think I could beat her."
"Are you sure?" Raisa continued. "Fighting an ultra ace such as Tina would put you at a huge disadvantage. It'll be nearly impossible for you to dodge a bullet from above."
"What are you talking about?" I said to her with a smirk. "I'm a Slave bound to Tomoko Anabuki. With my Thunder Magic, I can make the impossible 'possible'. Simple as that. I also call myself a side character, a Mob."
"Mob?" Trude, Erica, and Raisa tilted their heads a bit as they weren't too fond of that term.
"You'll get used to it, you three. That's his way of saying things." Mio said to the three as they would understand her. Then, she looked at me. "Kaburagi, are you sure that you're prepared? If Safonov, Wilcke, or Serbanescu take notice of your duel…"
"Then I'll let them watch our duel." I continued. "Trust me on this one. I know what I'm doing. I'm sure you'll place your trust in me as well, you three."
"Very well, Kaburagi… I just hope that you can pull this off. I just want Neumann to stop her soon enough…" Trude said as she would place her hand as if she got a headache.
Yeah… I hope it'll end quickly, too. You and me both, Trude.
[TWENTY MINUTES LATER…]
Twenty minutes has passed here in the middle of the airstrip. Of course, I had to ask Mio to help me train with my sword skills. And mind if I tell you that it was different learning things from Mio's insight compared to me using my kendo experience as a way to utilize my skill. There, me and my opponent Hanna who is on her Striker Unit where she was hovering in the sky as she wielded an orange painted MG42. I can assume this is a training weapon loaded with paintball rounds. Of course, the whole group of Karlslandian Witches were gathered here to watch the duel unfold. I did notice where Bronislava, Alexandra, Huberta, Minna, Richard, Trude, Erica, the Typhoon Witches, and the Typhoon Coffin Platoon were watching. Good thing Trude told them about it and respected my choice. After all, if she was using live ammunition… things would have been ugly. However, I began to listen to these Witches who are cheering Hanna instead of me.
"You can do it, Marseille! Show him that you're the real ultra ace!" The first Witch cheered for her.
"Beat the shit out of him! Down with the male!" The second Witch shouted.
"Win this duel, Star of Africa!" The third Witch pleaded in hopes for her to win. However, Hanna would start to chuckle and smirks as she rests her weapon over her shoulder.
"Do you hear them cheering for me? With their backing, I will win this duel and you'll become a third-rate at this point, Kaburagi. Do you think you can defeat me with that feeble sword of yours?" Hanna taunted me as I remained calm and tried to act a bit friendly… but a bit on a snarky side.
"30 seconds… I will beat you in under 30 seconds." I said to her as she started to laugh.
"Ahaha! Well good luck with that! I'll be the one who'll shoot you down six seconds flat!" Hanna replied as Minna would try to speak as she would announce this supposed friendly duel.
"Ahem… I understand this is considered a friendly spar. Today's match will be Keiwa Kaburagi from Fuso against Hanna-Justina Marseille." Minna said as I quickly interjected.
"I'M FROM JAPAN!" I shouted.
"Begin!" Minna announces as Hanna would make her move.
[FWOOOSH! VRRRRRRRRR!]
Hanna propels herself as she flies up high as she does a huge loop around. The sound was getting far until she would get closer… I proceeded to begin to emit static electricity all over my body. I wish Konbei would help me but… I can tell he'll say no. But whatever. Thanks to Mio providing me with a blade which was brimming with magical energy. I readied myself in a stance which would be similar to iaido.
"Thunder Magic, Third Stage… Stun Edge!" I shouted as I swiftly unsheathed my katana as it shot out an arcing projectile which was racing towards Hanna. However…
[FWOOSH! RATATATAT!]
Hanna dodged to the side very quickly as she raised her weapons and fired paint bullets at me. I proceeded to dodge roll to the side as she flew past me like some precision air strike killstreak from Honor of Duty. Then, she flew up and hovered as she would fire again.
[RATATATAT!]
Just how many magazines remain from her weapon, exactly!? Yet, she continued to fire at me as her eyes were in her large target iron sights as I continued to run in order to avoid her aim coming towards me until I noticed what she's doing. She shifts her aim ahead of my intended direction rather than chasing me. Of course, I was fast enough to quickly make a stop and dodge to my other direction as I decided to go with another plan.
"Thunder Magic, Zeroth Stage… Electric Aura!" I went for the aura as the body of electricity wraps around me like a sphere. The moment I stopped while Hanna fired at me… the paint bullets tried to hit me but the aura managed to bounce off into random opposite directions.
"Don't think that lightning barrier can save you, Kaburagi! I'll make sure that your mana will be depleted soon!" Hanna said as she would continue firing at me until…
[CLIK!]
"H-Huh? Out already!? The rate of fire is fast enough, sure. But it ate 150 rounds that fast! Damn… I need to reload before he gets me…" Hanna cursed as she would proceed to do so. I dispelled my aura as I held my sword directly at her as I held it with my two hands… Going trigger off would do the job but… it'll become too costly. However, I can do this… 20 seconds in… time to end it!
"Thunder Magic, Eighth Stage…" My blade begins to charge up electricity as I continue to hold it tightly in order to aim where I need… "Singularity Point Thrust-curve!"
The moment Hanna manages to reload the weapon completely as she cocks her weapon and aimed at me… it was too late.
[BZZZZT! POOOSH!]
The zap of lightning from my blade shot like a railgun as my katana's blade was sizzling but still regained its magic energy slowly after its use. I noticed Hanna who had raised her shield in order to defend herself when she had her eyes closed… the moment she opened her eyes…
"Huh? I didn't get hit?" Hanna said in confusion the moment she lowered her shield. "Kaburagi, I don't know what you did. But I'm afraid that your shot missed."
"Missed?" I said to her as I smirked. "I wasn't going for you. Perhaps something's wrong with your Striker Unit, perhaps?"
"What do you mean by… HUH!?" Hanna noticed that her left wing of her Striker Unit was destroyed by my Thunder Magic. Her striker engine begins to sputter and belch black smoke as the magic propeller on the left side begins to give in. Causing her to hover unstable to the point she proceeds to descend slowly and crash in the process. Everyone was surprised the moment I sheathed my katana.
"Sen'i sōshitsu…" I said the moment Minna spoke up as she lifted her hand to me the moment I won.
"T-The victor goes to Keiwa Kaburagi!" Minna announced that I had won but…
"EEEEEEEEH!?" All of the Karlslandian Witches weren't too thrilled about it as they started to throw words at me.
"I hope you die, loser!"
"You absolute cheater!"
"Drop dead!"
"Eat shit like a pig, male!"
"Honestly… these girls are something…" Trude said with a facepalm.
I shouldn't let them try to anger me as I decided to approach Hanna the moment she looked up to me.
"As I said… I won in 30 seconds." I continued in order to speak to her. "But still… Hanna-san. It's not about who wins. It's about who makes the best strategy, wins. Those without it, are lost in a single direction. I hope you can understand that."
"Heh… you're seriously speaking like a leader all of a sudden for some reason…" Hanna said with a chuckle the moment she took off her Striker Units and stood on her own as she would lend out her handshake. "Fine, you win this one, Kaburagi. Never knew you'd went for one of my wings in the process. But know this, I won't declare you a rival just yet… I still have a score to settle with Hartmann!"
"Can you just leave me out of it, Marseille!? Leave me alone!" Erica retorted from the background.
"Thanks. Do you believe me now?" I said to her as I shook her hand.
"A bit." Hanna replied…
"MARSEILLE!" The voice of a woman shouted until we turned to see a Witch wearing the same uniform as Raisa as her skin was slightly tan. She had red-orangish hair and wireframe glasses as she was marching forward the moment she walked past me and confronted Hanna after we stopped handshaking.
"N-Neumann!? Y-You're back already!" Hanna asked her as she responded.
"Of course, I did. Not only I came back… I saw you picking a fight against a person! What you did was deplorable, Marseille…!" The Witch said as her familiar begins to activate as she has a familiar of a horse. Then, her hand begins to magically enhance the moment she is ready.
"H-Hold up, Neumann! I only asked Kaburagi for a friendly spar and-" Hanna tried to talk her out of it until…
[SLAAAAAAP!]
"MMPH!?" Hanna was flung by her magic enhanced slap as she ended up crashing into a mob of Karlslandian Witches in the process.
"Starting today, 100 laps around the base starting now!" The Witch finishes speaking as Raisa rushes to check up on her wingman. But, she looked at me. "You must be Kaburagi, yes?"
"Y-Yes. It's Keiwa-" I was interrupted.
"I have no interest in your first name. But you will call me Edytha Neumann of the Jagdgeschwader 27 Gruppe I. I bring sincere apologies regarding Marseille's behavior." The witch named Edytha introduced herself in the most straightforward manner…
[Edytha Neumann - Commanding Officer of Jagdgeschwader 27 Gruppe I - Karlsland]
And then, she decided to proceed to do her own thing as the conversation felt so quick and one-sided… Then, Alexandra then approached me.
"Kaburagi… While I respect you for not hurting her despite this… friendly duel." Alexandra then pulled my ear as she wasn't too pleased about what happened. "But I suggest that you shouldn't do this again, hear me!?"
"Y-Yes, Ma'am! I sincerely apologize!" I apologized to her as she let me go.
"Honestly… I'm just glad to see you improving anyways." Alexandra continued. "And I'm sure the others were surprised by your performance."
"Keiwa-kun! Are you hurt!?" Tomoko rushed towards me as I spoke to her.
"Nothing hurt at all, Tomoko-san. Thanks for your concerns but I'm fine." I reassured her about it.
"Well done, Kaburagi. It's no surprise that Marseille is the same as ever the first time I met her." Mio spoke up as Aurora spoke.
"Still, imagine if Marseille were to be using real bullets against you." Aurora said.
"Regardless, Keiwa knows what he's doing. Using tactics is truly a smart choice to take advantage of it." Eihn spoke in order to stand near Aurora. Then, I looked at Trude and Erica as they would approach me.
"I must say, Kaburagi. Your magic is truly similar to Clostermann but on a destructive level." Trude said to me as if I was being praised.
"If only you could've destroyed her strikers…" Erica added.
"Hartmann, her line of service is still needed on the battlefield… If he did, then where will be repercussions…" Trude responded back to her.
"Thanks. Right now… I think I'm tired after I nearly used my magic… Hey, do you mind if you can supply me with yours?" I asked Trude about it as she seemed confused.
"And what do you mean by that? You look fine-" Trude was interrupted the moment she looked at someone running towards our way… It was a young man with brown short hair as he wore his casual clothing as he was seen carrying what appears to be a bento-style box. The moment he reached her the moment he was panting… Trude placed her hand to her hip. "Hmm? Jered, what are you doing here?"
"Apologies, Gertrud." The young man named Jered said as he provided her with the lunch box. "Your sister, Chris… She told me to deliver it to you."
"S-She told you?" Trude then blushes a little as she starts to have a little nosebleed. She quickly wipes it away and takes it from him. "Thank you, Jered. For coming all this way here.
"Umm… is he your brother?" I asked her as she shook her head.
"He is not my brother but… perhaps I'll introduce him to you. This here is my counterpart's descendant… Jered Barkhorn." Trude then introduced him to me. But the moment she said counterpart… wait a second…
"Barkhorn… When you said counterpart… Are you…?" I asked her as she nodded.
"That's correct. I am your world's counterpart to Gerhard Barkhorn…" Trude continued. "To be honest, when I first came here and learned about my counterpart… it all seemed weird. But truth be told. When I first met him, he announced himself as Gerhard's descendant which was all but a surprise to me."
"But that's not all, her sister Chris is also based on his wife.~" Erica had a playful smirk as Trude's face turned red.
"HARTMANN!" Trude shouted before she calmed down. "And yes… Chris… was based on my counterpart's wife."
"That's correct. Even though the Barkhorn is meant to be a military lineage that predates the Luftwaffe days… I still admire him… I really do but… but…" As Jered tried to speak as something was stopping him…
"Both Gerhard and his wife… were ironically killed in a car accident…" Trude said as she continued. "Perhaps it has to do with my fear of driving cars and all…"
"Dead in a car crash? Damn, that must have sucked." I said bluntly to her about this unfortunate irony. However… we hear Jered silently growling the moment he shakes his fists…
"How dare you…" Jered said to me. "H-How dare you!?"
"W-What?" I asked him in confusion.
"You dare mock my grandfather's death!? Over a car accident! Is that funny to you!?" Jered was becoming furious the moment he showed his tears coming out of his eyes. He was even gritting his teeth. "Yet, you continue to spit on the Barkhorn legacy… and you still have no remorse or empathy!"
"J-Jered. I wasn't-" I tried to talk this out but…
"Halt den Mund!" Jered retorted in his Karlslandian language. "Don't you dare… mock my family name and my grandfather's death! You're more nothing than a monster… I hate you!"
[STEP! STEP! STEP!]
"J-Jered! Wait!" Trude tried to call to him as he turned back and just ran away as Trude stood there and did nothing… Erica looked at me with worry as I looked at my hand.
"I'm… a monster…?" I said to myself in confusion and looked up to the sky… That's right… ever since I became a Slave… I want to question myself… What does it take for me? To become human… That is the answer I seek in this life… to become human.
Third Person POV
Meanwhile within Minna's main office where Minna was seen talking to Bronislava as Richard was sitting at his own table. However, Minna was cuddling Ann this time in order to be pampered. Of course, the two would be sitting as they had a discussion.
"Safonov, thank you for your time for coming here." Minna said to her kindly as Bronislava nodded.
"Please, pay it no mind. Since this is part of our ongoing efforts of this collaboration. I assume there is something more than that?" Bronislava asked as she nodded while Richard listened as he was doing paperwork for her.
"…Yes." Minna continued. "As of last night, our Night Witch, Heidemarie… She had managed to find a Neuroi that had been spotted in Poznan.. Or Posnania back in our world. Which is my birthplace there…"
"A Neuroi? How?" Bronislava asked her in shock as Minna would explain based on her reports.
"She said that the Anti-Witch Group had smuggled a Neuroi Core until everything went wrong. The Polish forces weren't able to repel it as they suffered heavy losses. That is why I wish for you to cooperate with us in destroying. After all… I don't have much time left…" Minna explained to her as she would look outside the window just to see the stars.
"Time…? What do you mean?" Bronislava asked her as she was willing to tell her the truth.
"Well you see… While I'm still a Witch and I'm over 20…" Minna continued as Richard remained silent as he would let his wife speak the truth. So she did… "My magic is already fading faster than you think. Therefore, my time as a Witch will come to an end… and Krawatte will leave me. I hope you understand."
Thus… with the truth revealed… Minna's life as a Witch will reach its apparent end like death's door. The battle to save Minna's hometown in this world would soon approach when the time comes…
[MINNA'S IMPENDING RETIREMENT, JERED'S INTERNAL STRUGGLE, AND THE LOOMING WAR TO SAVE POZNAN.]
[TO BE CONTINUED…]
ENDING 2 - Ai o Oshiete Kureta Kimi E [TV SIze.] by Qaijff (Inuyashiki)
*Theme plays*
The theme starts with a black background as it shows white lines as more lines appear as it proceeds to create what appears to be line sketch style as it turns into raindrops that shows Jered Barkhorn standing alone in the rain as it transitions.
Kikoeteimasu ka boku no koe ga?
Taisetsu na hito wa mou imasu ka?
The first scene then begins with Jered who was seen as a youth as he was seen walking as it transitions to his adulthood where he stood there and looked up, seeing the contrail in the sky.
Tooi you de angai soba ni iru yo
Kimi ni wa boka ga mienain darou kedo
Then the next scene shows Gertrud Barkhorn who stood alone until she was approached by Chris. There, she would kneel and ruffle her hair as she would notice to see Minna and Erica waiting for her as she would stand up as the two would meet up with them.
Wasurenaide nante ieba kimi wa komaru darou kara
Wasurete ii yo nante saigo made tsuyogatta
Kidzuite hoshii yo tte imasara tsutaetara
Yaparri komatte kao shite warau ka na
Then the next scene shows the field of flowers being blown by the wind. The next scene shows the city where the people were walking on sidewalks to go about their day as some were on their phones. Then the next scene shows the Karlslandian Witches flying in the sky as they were flying in a V-formation. Then the next scene shows Jered who was seen leaving his home as he then proceeds to run the moment he decided to chase after the contrail.
Ima no hibi o aisanaide
Soko ni wa boku wa inain da yo!
Nanigenai koto ga shiawase datte tte
Atarimae desho
Then the next scene shows Jered running down the road where he continues to run and run until Gertrud begins to fly past him. Causing him to continue running with all he can muster. Then, he proceeded to lend out his hand until he was dragged backwards as he proceeded to drown slowly.
Moshimo negai kanau no nara
Tonari de waratte kureru no nara
Ai o oshiete kureta kimo to mata
Mouichido aitai
Jered continues to drown as the sketched circle shows a full colored memory of Jered's past of his childhood until he opened his eyes where everything was no longer sketch styled as everything around him was full color. There, he looked at his hand where he was grabbed by none other than Gertrud. There, she lets off a soft smile as Jered's eyes widen the moment he shed a tear as he smiles. And so, it ends with the two walking towards the light with their hands together.
Author's Notes: Thank you for reading this chapter. This is the first start of the Karlsland Arc. As you just saw, things are picking up the pace. Minna's time as a Witch is coming to an end, Jered's continual struggle to live up to his family name, as well as another war against the Neuroi once again. Though, the end part really got me emotional as I shed a tear when I was working on this chapter. Hopefully, the next chapter would be more emotional as this will focus on Jered as he is trying to follow Gerhard's footsteps in order to fly. So please look forward to it. Until then, peace out!
-[Glossary #4]-
[Minna-Dietlinde Braun-nee-Wilcke - Character]
Nationality: Karlsland
Age: 20
Striker Unit: Messerscharf Bf109K-4
Weapon: MG42, Walther PPK
Desc: Veteran Karlsandian ace and former Wing Commander of the famed 501st Joint Fighter Wing Strike Witches. Born into the Wilcke family that came from a lineage of singers of their descendant, Anna Wilcke. She is a talented singer, too. However, due to her age, she is also losing magic after her world's Berlin was liberated. After she came to this world, she thought of a second chance to pursue the life of studying music abroad, not as a Witch but as a human being. That is until she met Richard in Berlin as the two would share their passion for their hobby. After their marriage, she would be sought out by Adolfine Galland to become a Wing Commander once more she accepted it. However, throughout the months into December where her life as a Witch would finally come to an end. Thus, she decided to make this her one final movement: to save her once birthplace called Poznan despite being in this world. She is Polish by birth. But through and through, she is a Karlslandian.
[Richard "Rich" Braun - Character]
Nationality: Karlsland (Formally Germany)
Age: 21
Desc: He is Minna's husband. Before he joined her to work at Neu-Luftwaffe. He was an aspiring indie band member for the drums called Schadenfreude Sortzmen led by his three friends. Though, his family name also comes from an aviation lineage that predates back in World War II. Born and raised in Berlin, he is exceptionally kind and has passion for music despite his parent's protests due to his rebellious nature as he values freedom over discipline. After the Witches come to the world. He eventually met Minna as the two were lovers of music and fell in love to the point where they were married. As a result, the two now have a daughter, Ann Braun. He followed Minna to work as her assistant in order to leave a simple and yet carefree life. But his passion for music never dies.
[Gertrud Barkhorn - Character]
Nationality: Karlsland
Age: 19
Striker Unit: FlakWolf Fw190D-9
Weapon: Akimbo MG42
Desc: Former member of the 501st JFW Strike Witches. Back in her world, she was born in Konigsberg (Kaliningrad in this world). She is considered to be one of the best aces within the Karlsland Empire back in her world. She values discipline above all else as she sees it as one of Karlsland's core principles when it comes to the military. After she came to this world, she would eventually meet her counterpart's descendant Jered whom she sees as a burden who "desperately follows the path of the late aviator". However, she secretly has an extreme siscon complex where she is overly caring towards her sister Christiane. Regardless, she would do anything to protect and serve the Karlslandian nation under one banner to protect this world.
[Erica Hartmann - Character]
Nationality: Karlsland
Age: 17
Striker Unit: Messerscharf Bf109Z
Weapon: MG-42 and MP-40
Desc: One of the best aces in the Karlslandian military. She is considered to be one of the best known who earned the title "The Black Devil". She has a twin older sister named Ursula Hartmann and is the closest friend of Gertrud Barkhorn. She is often nicknamed as Frau by her closest friends. While she is exceptionally skilled, she is sometimes lazy at times to the point she wouldn't even contribute. After coming to this world, she is currently the member of the newly formed Neu-Luftwaffe just like Gertrud. Of course, she would eventually become fast friends with Keiwa right off the bat.
[Hanna-Justina Wallia Rosalind Sieglinde Marseille - Character]
Nationality: Karlsland
Age: 17
Striker Unit: Messerscharf Bf109G-2/trop
Weapon: MG34
Desc: One of Karlsland's best aces back in her world. Her participation in Africa during her battles against the Neuroi would earn her the title "The Star of Africa". However, she is known to be very competitive at times and sees Erica as a rival. She once had her first familiar but died which would lead her to obtain a new familiar, Steller's Sea Eagle. After she came to this world, her deployment to this world's Africa is no longer needed as she resides at the Neu-Luftwaffe Air Base under the Karlslandian Self-Defense unit squadron. She is widely known for having this much ego to the point where she's too boastful of her own pride.
[Raisa Pottgen - Character]
Nationality: Karlsland
Age: 16
Striker Unit: Messerscharf Bf109G-2/trop
Weapon: MG34
Desc: She is Hanna's wingman who assisted her during their time in Africa. Of course, she prefers to fly with Hanna more than anybody else. After arriving in this world, she resides at the Neu-Luftwaffe Air Base under the Karlslandian Self-Defense unit squadron. The same unit that Hanna is in.
[Edytha Neumann - Character]
Nationality: Karlsland
Age: 20
Striker Unit: Messerscharf Bf109G-2/trop
Weapon: MG34
Desc: Once served as an adjutant under Rommel during the battle in Africa, she is considered one of the highest ranking Witches back in her world. However, she would constantly deal with Hanna's ego yet she always had to keep her in check in order to make her fall in line. After coming to this world, she copes with the loss of Rommel. Eventually, she would learn to move forward and join the Neu-Luftwaffe Air Base and is currently the Squadron Leader of the Self-Defense unit.
[Jered Barkhorn - Character]
Nationality: Karlsland (Formally Germany)
Age: 19
Desc: The descendant of the late German aviator Gerhard "Gerd" Barkhorn. Born and raised in Nuremberg. He was once a troubled child who had a deep admiration of flying after learning of Gerhard's stories from his father. By the time he was 16, his parents were killed in a fatal car crash, neglecting him to live and survive whatever means necessary. At the age of 19, that was when the Witches came to this world and Germany's name was changed to Karlsland. He first met Gertrud upon finding out that the ancestor's counterpart would exist here. Of course, he would be treated no less as a normal human being based on Gertrud's perspective. His deep admiration towards Gerhard still continued despite his cause of ironic death. He dislikes people who spit on the Barkhorn family name. He lives within the farmlands of the outskirts of Nuremberg as he owns a dirt airstrip as well as his secret hobby… repairing Gerhard's plane in order to make him proud and hopefully one day… fly alongside Gertrud as his only wish. Yet, his darkness and demons still suppress him inside his heart…
[Neu-Luftwaffe Air Base - Location]
Desc: A military airbase for both male pilots and Witches formed and constructed by Adolfine Galland. Led by Minna-Dietlinde Braun-nee-Wilcke, this base would be located within the outskirts of Frankfurt. Though, it is known for having more than 1,000 Witches stationed here. While there is male workers here, they are forbidden to strike up a conversation as Minna placed those rules.