Kuromorimine

"Kommandant! You... seem rather... happy."

"Yes, Eririn. I am happy... quite happy."

"K-Kommandant! I... With all due respect, please don't refer to me like that?"

"Yes, yes..." Maho couldn't help but manage a small chuckle.

"Kommandant, you look off. Should I be worried?"

"Worried? Come now, don't bother yourself over it. What time is Sensha-do practice later?"

"You want us to do Sensha-do practice?! Like... right after what happened the other day?!"

"Why not? Our school's been humiliated, and that means we need to improve. But, I have a special announcement then, so I want the entire team assembled fifteen minutes prior to the starting time. Am I understood?"

"Y-yes, Kommandant..."

Erika nodded, bowed and went on her way to make the announcement over the school's loudspeakers. As she walked through the wide, open courtyards, into the administration building, through the hallways and corridors, making her way to the third floor, her mind was full of questions. What was with the sudden change in mood from Maho? The day before, she was her usual self, always cold, calculating, with that iron stare that made everyone around her shudder. Now, not even twenty-four hours later, she acted as if she were Miho with her up-beat attitude and with a pleasant smile on her face. She feared what had happened, if Maho was okay or was going through something terrible in her life. Even after meeting Miho, embracing her and weeping so many tears, a sight that Erika, dumbfounded, was left frozen in place seeing it, but later warmed to, her fanatical heart unable to resist the happiness and warmth of the scene, Maho had gone back to her usual look the day after, as if that meeting had never happened in the first place. What was different about yesterday, after school, that made her look so happy now?

What's more was, what was that announcement Maho was talking about going to be about? Were they to be the expected words of encouragement to the team, to reassure them that all would be well, even after the terrible loss against Ooarai? Would it be about some new additions, whether that be new girls or new tanks? Was there going to be a special match that would be held in a few weeks, or even days? Perhaps it involved a change in command for some of the tank crews and company commanders. The third-year commanders would be leaving soon, including Maho herself, and there would be appointed replacements for each of them. That last possibility had Erika worried. For all of her dedication to following the Nishizumi style to the letter, she still considered herself unworthy to take command of Kuromorimine once the time came for that to happen. She knew she had a number of faults. Firstly, she and the rest of the team had arrived too late to save Maho, that pesky failed prototype somehow holding back her and the others from entering the compound. No doubt she would get her revenge on them soon, though one could admire their fighting spirit, knocking out some of Kuromorimine's vehicles, going out with a bang.

"Erika-san! Where-"

"KOUME-SAN!"

Startled by Koume's sudden appearance, Erika bounced back, almost falling over, catching herself before reaching the point of no return.

"Oh, sorry! Sorry! I didn't-"

"Don't worry... just don't do that again!"

"Yes... but... what are you going to do?"

"Make an announcement. Maho-san wants us to assemble fifteen minutes earlier than our usual practice time-"

"There's practice today?"

"Let me finish, please..."

"Sorry."

"Yes, there's practice today, and we're assembling everyone fifteen minutes earlier. Maho will be giving a special announcement on she knows what."

"Oh. Okay."

Erika turned to continue on her quest, but stopping in her tracks, she decided to check on Koume, quickly regaining her attention.

"How are you feeling, Koume-san?"

"Me? Well... better than a year ago, I guess."

"Happy to see Miho again?"

"Of course. I... thought you didn't want to, you know, mention her name again."

"Well, now I'm confused about everything. Maho-san looks really happy all of a sudden, my heart is warmed seeing her and Miho hug, somehow, and come on, props to her for actually beating us, even though I'm sure we'll get her next time."

"True... but for me... it's still hard dealing with the past."

"You know, some time before the tournament, Maho went into your room to talk with you. What was that all about?"

"Oh... she was... well... different."

"Different? How so?"

"She was much warmer, more open, much less Maho and more Miho. She spoke with a nice tone, as if she were my own mother having concerns for my well-being... believe it or not."

"I've observed that, too... believe it or not, I argued with her once, over Miho."

"Really?"

"She was very defensive of Miho, and didn't like how I badmouthed her all the time. I told her the obvious, but she wasn't backing down. I nearly lost my respect for her over that."

"Right..."

"But back to the original question... You're holding up just fine?"

"The trauma is still there... I get nightmares every now and then... the classmates appear to me. Sometimes they just look at me, sometimes they criticize me. I'm growing used to it, though I'd much prefer things went differently, in a good way..."

"It is what it is... at least you're still in good shape and still with us."

"Yeah... Hida and Emi have been helping me a lot."

"Good to hear that, then. Now, I'd best be going. See you on the field!"

"I'll see you, too!"

With that dealt with, Erika continued up the stairs, onto the second floor, and another flight to the third floor, where the PA system was located. Gaining access inside, she took a moment to think about what she was going to say, grabbed the mic, and pressed the necessary key on the keypad to broadcast her announcement throughout the campus. A bit of frequency at the start prevented her from making the announcement at first, but once the screeching had stopped, Erika spoke into the mic, her voice heard throughout the high school grounds by thousands upon thousands of students.

"Attention. This is Itsumi Erika, second-year student, Vice-Commander of the Kuromorimine Girls' Academy Sensha-do team. The following announcement is for all Sensha-do participants. Again, this is for Sensha-do participants ONLY:

Please be informed that there will be practice held today at the usual time, but per the wishes of Commander Maho Nishizumi, all participants are expected to be present at the tank hangars fifteen minutes prior, and not a second late. A special announcement will be given by the commander regarding certain topics that will be revealed in said announcement. Once again, Sensha-do participants are expected to be at the tank hangars at least fifteen minutes before practice time.

Thank you for your attention."

Switching off the mic, Erika took a deep breath to let out all the stress and anxiety from making the announcement, making her way to her classroom after drinking fifty ounces of water from each drinking fountain she passed by.

Several hours later

The laid-back, casual atmosphere at the tank hangars was rudely interrupted by the sudden blast of the bugle. Immediately, all who had been loitering on the grounds snapped from their positions, running with all haste to the premier hangar, where Maho was waiting, standing on her Tiger. Within a minute, the entire team was assembled, everyone in their respective company, with each line comprising an individual crew. Erika and the company commanders stood at the front, with Erika in the center due to her role as Vice-Commander. Some noticed how Maho seemed happier than usual. She had a softer gaze, her mouth was in a slight smile, and her demeanor was much more bright than usual. Once all had quieted down, snapped to attention, and directed all of their attention towards their commander, Maho took a quick peek at her speech's notes, and got underway with the address.

"Ladies of Kuromorimine, I apologize for calling you here after what happened a couple of days ago. I understand that some of us are still in shock over the match, or that some may still be too angry to want to participate in any Sensha-do-related events, but I must begin by re-iterating that practice makes perfect. You have heard this message be said dozens upon dozens upon dozens of times, but it does not lose its meaning. Mistakes were made during the match, I'll admit, but that doesn't excuse us from trying to prevent such mistakes from happening again! That is why we are having a practice match, to make sure that a match like that doesn't happen again.

Now, for the main part of this address. I have several important announcements to give... well… just one, actually."

Fixating her gaze on Erika, who almost buckled when she noticed, Maho continued.

"Itsumi Erika, please move forward by two paces."

Instantly, all eyes turned to the person of interest. With her stomach somersaulting, beads of sweat forming all over her body, and her heart rapidly accelerating, Erika nervously did what was just commanded of her, doing her very best to maintain composure in front of everyone. Hands gripping her skirt, she braced for what Maho was about to announce from her.

"As you are all aware, I will be graduating from this school upon the end of the year. However, it turns out that I will not be going through the entire year with you, because the school headmaster, my mother, has, with the confirmation of the school board, as well as confirmation from the officials from the German university I will be attending next, the Niedersächsische Universität, determined that I have satisfactorily met all of the necessary requirements to graduate high school. Due to this, I will be graduating earlier than you all, sometime before winter."

At this announcement, some of the first years began to talk excitedly, some letting out shouts of congratulation and putting their hands together. Others subtly tapped their sides as a form of applause. Erika, however, motioned with her hand for silence, and within seconds, the hangar was quiet, allowing Maho to continue speaking.

"With that said, I move on to the second announcement. Upon my departure, command of the Sensha-do team will be transferred to Itsumi Erika!"

The moment she heard her name, Erika broke, stumbling backwards as the heavy weight of the announcement hit her. Her fellow commanders quickly caught her before she could hit the ground, helping her get back onto her feet, though being forced to support her, as she felt too weak to stand on her own. Seeing this, Maho smiled, and jumping down from the Tiger, dismissed the assembly.

"All of you, that's all! Dismissed, and get your tanks ready for practice! Company commanders, help me get the future commander some water and towels!"

With a unified bow, the assembled crowd turned about and ran to their respective hangars, some shouting congratulations to both Maho and Erika as they left the hangar. Some even took the time to shake hands with Maho, as well as giving Erika some words of encouragement. A few minutes after dismissal, the company commanders had returned, bearing towels and water bottles, as instructed. Tending to a worn-out Erika, they gave her water and helped dry her sweat. Consoling and comforting her, Maho and the others helped her get back to her feet.

"Erika-san, are you sure you want to participate today?"

"Koume-san... Ugh… just let me miss out, Kommandant..."

Nodding, Maho gave her future successor permission to leave, wishing her well as she left the hangars. Koume and Hida helped Erika get onto her Tiger II, which drove her back to the apartments. Still supported by her two friends, she made her way to her room, thanked Koume and Hida for their help, groggily closed the door, and stumbled onto her bed, rolling herself flat on her back. She was now left all alone, in quiet solitude, to mull over what on earth had just happened over the past week, no, not just that, the past year.

Ever ambitious from the start, Erika had tried her best to get into the Nishizumis', as well as her peers', good graces, striving to become Kuromorimine's commander in order to lead them to countless victories, just like those who had come before her, and made their mark, being hailed as champions in the school's annals and records. She was making good progress in this quest. Often hailed by many of her classmates as one of THE embodiments of the Nishizumi Style, a walking example of it, second only to Maho, she was considered the likeliest candidate to succeed Maho when the time eventually came. Devoted, upright, charismatic, and talented, she was the most Nishizumi a non-Nishizumi could ever hope to be, meeting every single qualification and requirement for the position. People addressed her as "our future commander", which always brought a smile to her face every time she heard it, being confident that that would come to pass.

Then, Miho came around.

She was just a first year, but being the younger sister of Maho gave her the position of Vice-Commander, skipping over Erika entirely. It felt like a betrayal. Erika had worked for many hours each day, striving to be that perfect Nishizumi commander. Yes, she was the same age as Miho, but Erika felt much more qualified, seeing how "un-Nishizumi" of a girl she was, being so timid and shy. Much unlike her older sister, who was more confident and iron-willed. Comparing Erika and Miho's first matches, Erika proved to be the far better commander. And yet, Miho was the one who got to be Vice-Commander? Not Erika? After all she had done, this was how it would be? But she couldn't vent her anger out at Shiho or Maho, no, they had taught her well, and she was eternally in gratitude to them. Instead, she would make sure that Miho understood that a strong Itsumi deserved to be the next commander, not a weak Nishizumi.

Months passed, and soon enough, Erika was starting to be proven wrong. Miho was learning, and growing to become a very capable tank commander herself, equaling Erika in skill and capability. Erika knew that soon enough, Miho would justify her status. She needed to improve, too, if she wanted to have a chance in replacing Miho. Yet, that chance was slowly slipping away. No matter how hard she tried, Miho was going to be the next commander, not her. Eventually, Erika began to succumb to the fact that for all her hard work, she would never become the next commander of Kuromorimine. Although her head was filled with dreams, although she worked and trained until her bones cracked, her destiny would never be seen, denied by the simple reason that her classmate ended up being a Nishizumi. And with the Headmaster being the head of the Nishizumi, nepotism, in her eyes, was always going to be a certainty.

However, it all changed at the 62nd Tournament. That one shot that changed everything. Two deaths that not only got the chairman of the Federation to resign, which was the first time in the Federation's decades-long history for that to happen, but ultimately made Miho leave. However, at the time, Erika didn't care about that. She was more angered over the deaths than happy at the potential consequences. For all of her devotion to the Nishizumi Style, Erika, being born to a humble background, had grown well-acquainted with her classmates. She didn't have the isolated upbringing that Maho and Miho had. She had grown up playing with other kids, and found company a very welcome addition to her life. It may not seem like it from the outside, but Erika really cared about her classmates, and when the news came out, she had every right to be angry. And who else could she blame but Miho, for failing to save those two? She was angry at Pravda, too, but Miho had stolen her rightful position, so that meant that much more of her anger was directed at her.

Erika would get that Vice-Commander's position, anyways. But now, she was more sorrowful and angry than happy. Every time she passed by that monument, all that would go to her mind was Miho, and how she abandoned the school, trying to save whatever dignity she had left. In Erika's eyes, Miho was a traitor, and to her, a traitor shouldn't receive any forgiveness, and her fellow upperclassmen found agreement with her. But Maho, on the other hand, had gotten her suspicion. For her entire stay at Kuromorimine, she had been completely loyal and devoted to Maho, seeing her as her role model. However, Maho's lack of hostility in the aftermath of the controversial affair bugged Erika. At first, she seemed hesitant to lay down her own condemnations, and then, as time went on, and the 63rd Tournament came around, Maho, slowly but surely, opened up her true feelings for Miho. After that heated exchange in Maho's quarters, Erika had come very close to quitting Sensha-do just to spite her commander, but had decided against doing so at the last minute, her love for Kuromorimine ultimately winning out by the skin of its teeth.

Finally, the day before yesterday. The day her entire world was flipped upside down. The day where she saw, for the first time, her commander display true emotion in what was probably the greatest day in Maho's entire life. The utter love that she showed to Miho, that confirmed Erika's suspicions, that broke the popular perception of Maho's uncaring, ruthless countenance, Erika could feel that love as well. As much as she wanted to yell and curse at Maho for ever expressing love to a traitor, she never brought herself to do it. The sense of love and affection that the sisters showed each other also found its way to Erika's heart, and throughout the battle, it kept bugging her. She tried to suppress it, but it refused to leave. As the climax of the battle came, it had disappeared, Erika too into the heat of battle to mind it, dead focused on getting to Maho as quickly as possible before the killing blow was dealt. Unfortunately, she arrived too late, and for a second time in a row, Kuromorimine suffered defeat, a dishonorable one, to a school that had a mostly new batch of participants.

Initially, Erika was furious. She had gone on a rant, criticizing herself and that pesky failed prototype for not reaching Maho fast enough, or shouting curses at that Type 3 Chi-Nu that blocked her winning shot at the last possible moment. Her mind was clouded with blind rage, so much so that she had nearly lost control while driving the Krupp Protze carrying her and Maho, composing herself just before her arms could make drastic motions. After arriving at the destination set by Maho, Erika saw whom she considered as her worst enemy, Miho, running towards her with all possible speed. Not a second later, Maho dismounted, and ran into her sister, just like she had done hours earlier. Once again, that same sense of love and affection she had felt earlier came back. Curious at what the two were up to, she ran after them, though keeping her distance so as to not disturb their privacy. They seemed to talk about something bothering, as both Maho and Miho appeared unsettled by what they were discussing. However, all seemed settled, as, once again, the two locked together in a tight embrace. Again that warm feeling engulfed Erika, to the point she was starting to tear up seeing it. She didn't fully understand it yet, but sooner or later, she would get an answer from Maho.

Now, here she was, her world just about performing a 360-degree turn from how much was going on. Maho was much happier now, even more so than yesterday, where she only managed a couple of smiles here and there. Today, though, she carried a big smile everywhere she went. What next? Would Maho suddenly be like Kay tomorrow, always energetic and bombastic with a bubbly personality 24/7? And what about Miho? She wasn't as bad as before, after that. Yes, Erika still had a grudge against her, but that grudge came with a newfound respect. Miho may still be a traitor, but she was still one heck of a tank commander. What's more was the fact that she was going to be the next commander for Kuromorimine. She didn't want this position, what if she failed or didn't live up to her expectations? What if she only brought more shame and dishonor to the Nishizumi name? She didn't want to think on that too much, her brain was already ruined from thinking so long and so hard. She needed a nap, especially after what just happened earlier.

Exhausted physically and mentally, Erika closed her eyes, quickly drifting off to sleep.

Continuation High School

Linder stared at the phone in front of her, the number punched in and waiting for the call button to be pressed. Her hand was shaking. She was nervous. It had been years since she had contacted her parents. She was afraid to call them, being scared over how they may react to hearing her once again. She didn't know if, years after she had left them for Japan, they still loved her, or, at least, acknowledged her as their own, after all she had done to them. With her stomach performing somersaults, she mustered the courage, and after saying a small quick prayer, with great effort, she brought her thumb on the "call" button. Placing the phone at her ear, she forced herself to wait as the ringing continued. If she wouldn't be able to talk with them now, then she would have to leave a voicemail, and hope they respond, though she much preferred to just get the conversation dealt with, not wishing to have to wait with a great deal of anxiety hampering her all the time.

Seconds felt like hours as the call dragged on, the same ringtone being heard over and over again, which soon got Linder's skin crawling, itching to just hear anything else that wasn't this ringtone. A minute later, the ringing suddenly stopped, and a familiar male voice came out on the other line.

"Hello, is this who I think I'm speaking to?"

"F...Father...?"

"Yep, it really is... Whew... I'd never thought I'd witness the day..."

Hearing her dear father's voice on the other end was enough to bring Linder to tears. With her voice choked and shaky, she tried to force out the words which she should've said many years ago.

"F-f-father... p... ple-please..."

"Come now, Linder, let's... not get too emotional..." Even though he was trying not to sound like it, her father, too, was getting emotional. Suddenly, there was another voice from the distance.

"Bertel! What's with you getting choked up there?"

Linder could recognize that voice, too.

"Mother..."

"Elli... it's Linder..."

"Linder?! GIVE ME THAT!"

Linder was struggling to keep her emotions intact as she was experiencing the greatest rush of joy she had ever seen in her whole life.

"My darling Linaa... Is this really you?!"

"Y... y-y-Mother, I can't!"

"My Linaa... I-I've...!"

Sure enough, her mother, too, was sobbing on the other end, which just got everyone crying even more. Linder's pants were already soaked from the numberless tears dripping from her face. Her shirt was equally stained, with not a single spot left dry from how much Linder had to wipe her eyes, and even then it seemed they wouldn't grow exhausted. She could no longer bring herself to form a coherent sentence, let alone a single word. Not a sound was produced from her that wasn't the hics and gags and screams that were her sobs, and the same could be said for her mother, and perhaps even her father, who normally was a tough nut to crack. When it seemed things would cool down, they would only break down again, and the sobs would come once more.

For several more minutes, this continued, with not a word being spoken, save for the occasional attempts of one of them to speak, which proved unsuccessful thanks to the incessant sobbing and sheer joy of the moment. But soon enough, all eyes were thoroughly exhausted. Recollecting themselves, breathing in and out to calm themselves down, the conversation was, at last, continued.

"L-Linaa... are you good? I-is there anything bad going on?"

"Not at all, Mother... I-I'm... I'm fine."

"Good... good... oh my..."

"Mother, I... called because..."

"Yes, please tell us! Oh, Lord, our prayers are answered!"

"Is Father with you? I... must tell him, too..."

"I'm here, don't worry."

Letting out a heavy sigh, and mouthing a quick prayer, Linder took a deep breath and spoke again. As she opened her mouth, she felt the tears welling again.

"Mother... Father... I'm... I'm sorry for wh... what I've done... P-p-please forgive me! I was nothing but a stupid, stubborn, hurtful demon back then! I-I've learned now! Please!"

Hearing her daughter's desperation from the other side, Elli couldn't help but choke up trying to offer consolation.

"Don-Don't be like that, Linaa! All is forgiven! Please... don't say this, you're still a good girl inside!"

Hearing her heartbroken mother hit Linder hard. Immediately she retracted, ashamed at what she had just called herself, and, fighting the lump in her throat, wished to know what had happened in her absence.

"F-father... what happened... while I was gone? I-is there anything bad?"

Bertel's voice was solemn and dreadful.

"Very bad. I think I'll need you back with me in Oulu."

"Wh-what?! But-"

"Linaa... I'll keep this short... I've been removed from my pastorate by the bishop."

"You... you were what?!"

"Yes... replaced with someone who clearly shows no regard for the Bible..."

"B-but... I thought..."

"We'll talk later. If you can fly back within three weeks, then it's good."

"I'll... I'll try to be back then..."

"Alright... but am I glad to hear your voice again... as well as the fact you've come clean."

"Yes, Father... again... I'm sorry for all the things I've done to wrong you."

"All is forgiven and forgotten... you called at the right time."

"T-thank you... Father..."

Linder kept the phone to her ear, even as she heard the line on the other side cut, once more leaving herself alone to ponder and mull over what just happened, and once again, the tears began to flow.

6 hours later

Classes came and went, just like any normal day at Continuation. Lunchtime, the second-most anticipated period of the day, was in full swing within minutes. Linder, however, was not part of the initial cafeteria lines. Rushing with all haste to the administration building, Linder hastily informed the headmaster of the sudden change of plans, providing her parents' phone number to allow him to talk to them in regards to her future plans, before rushing back to the cafeteria with a rumbling stomach. By the time she arrived, the lines were thin, so it didn't take too long for her to fill her plate with deliciousness. Searching all around for Jouko and her friends, upon finding their table, she quickly rushed over to sit down with them.

"Lindy! How's it going?"

"Ehh..."

"You seem troubled. What happened?"

Placing her plate on the table and sitting down, Linder mustered the rest of her strength to spit out the details.

"I finally talked to my parents... all is forgiven, now... but-"

"Hey, that's great!-"

"Shh, Hannes. She's not done yet."

"Sorry..."

"It's fine, Lofstrom. Hannes is just... anyway... yeah, I talked to them, settled everything, but my father has some bad news."

"Bad news? Has something bad happened to the family?"

"No deaths or injuries, thank God... unless you can count spiritual injury... Father was removed from his position as priest of one of the churches in Oulu..."

"What?! Why?" Everyone quickly rose to their feet, jolted by the announcement.

"Jouko... and everyone else... I'm sorry if this will make your blood boil... but... the Bishop of Oulu replaced him with a woman."

Immediately, the crew's faces melted into looks of disappointment and anguish. Frisell merely shook her head as she sat back down, burying her head in her hands.

"It was to be expected... he's been ordaining more women into the diocese ever since he was elected... and Father was a vocal opponent of it... It looks like the Bishop finally got fed up with him. I know Jouko's Father is opposed to him as well."

"The last bishop was opposed to this practice, right, Frisell? Goodness… what a turnaround!"

"That's what brings me to the second part... Father wants me to be back with him in three weeks."

"What?!"

"But- I thought..."

"Look... as much as I want to stay with you, and I really do... I have to go back to Oulu. Father needs all the support he can get."

Jouko hung her head, understanding that she had to deal with this loss whether she liked it or not.

"Jouko, will you be coming back as well?"

"I have some problems of my own... plus, I'm already ministering here, inadvertently, so my hands are tied."

"Have you been updated by your parents on what happens?"

"Yeah, I call them every night. How long ago was this?"

"Just yesterday."

"Well, then Father didn't get the news yet as of the last time we talked. I'll expect him to have sent a letter of protest to the bishop by now. I told him about you a few weeks ago, and he told me what was going on, how your father was being pressured by the bishop to accept his ideas. Your father didn't want me to tell you, since he was worried you may not care or that, in the event you're coming back, it would dishearten you and get you to stray."

"That's what he told me... but he determined that since I've spent a lot of time with you, strengthening my faith again and all that, it would be appropriate to inform me now."

"So, when's your return?"

"I don't know, Lofstrom. Hopefully I'll get things done by winter. I'll still be enrolled here, just receiving my courses via email so I can complete my schooling."

"We'll keep in touch with you as well..."

"Thanks, Frisell..."

After a few more moments of silence, Linder decided to break the somber atmosphere, her stomach's rumble reminding her of another reason why she was even sitting at this table in the first place.

"Well, it isn't goodbye yet, so... let's dig in! Our food's getting cold!"

"Right!"

Within minutes, the five hungry tankers had consumed everything on their plates, and within the hour, Sensha-do practice was well underway, though rather somber with the Sturmi crew, knowing that Linder would soon be leaving them for who knows how long. Nevertheless, they'd make sure to make the most fun out of it.

School Carrier Management Headquarters, Tokyo

"No, no, no, no, no... NO!"

A pencil suddenly flew across the room, breaking into three from the force of the throw, narrowly missing the large television screen that was replaying the Finals match. On the other side, a man with glasses stood angrily staring at it, fists tightly clenched, lungs near hyperventilating. This was the third time he had seen the match, but the experience was the same every time. First, it seemed victory was theirs, then Kuromorimine was whittled down until that duel cost them, for the second time in a row, the championship flag, which went instead to the school which he desperately wanted to shut down. Somehow, some way, they had defeated every single opponent, from the heavyweights like Saunders, to last year's champions, Pravda, and now, arguably the greatest school in Sensha-do, Kuromorimine. What kind of upstarts were these that they should suddenly claim the unlikeliest of victories? Renta's face churned even more upon seeing the joyful expressions of Ooarai's students, the ones who defied all odds to win, as if they were exulting in his defeat and suffering.

"You... how did you... Ragh!"

A swipe of his hand struck the stack of papers on his desk, causing some to fly upwards, and tipping the rest over onto the floor, crumpling many of them from the impact, and leaving Renta's hand in a bit of a bloody mess, with a dozen paper cuts marring it. But Renta didn't care, all he cared about was to get this stupid school shut down. If they were going to defy his wishes, then he might as well defy theirs. Angrily shutting off the television right before it could, kami forbid, depict the flag presentation, Renta stormed towards his desk, grabbing the telephone and quickly dialing his secretary's number, punching the keypad hard, almost to the point of breaking his own finger in the process. Impatiently waiting for the response, he didn't even try to mask his anger when talking, too riled up to really control himself in the slightest.

"Ayaka, I need one of those school shutdown notices at my office ASAP!"

"M-Mister Tsuji! I..."

"I need a copy right now, Ayaka. Get me a glass of water, too, and don't leave me waiting!"

Slamming the phone down before his secretary could respond, Renta slumped into his seat, never bothering to straighten himself out, instead squirming with anger as Ooarai's victory clawed at him like a gremlin, taunting him on his failure to meet his goal, mocking him for his inability to see this closure out. He felt like Prometheus, chained to a rock, as the memory of his failure gnawed at him relentlessly. But he could find comfort in knowing that he wouldn't have to suffer this humiliation for long. Soon enough, he would get his revenge, and finish what he'd started. Soon enough, the Zuikaku would be in the breaker's yard, and perhaps, to further satisfy himself, force every inhabitant of it to sit by and watch as piece by piece, the great carrier was dismantled, bathing himself in the tears of thousands of students and adults and whoever was miserable enough to be on that joke of a vessel-

"Mister Tsuji, the paper you requested."

Snapping out of his scheming, Renta, having calmed down from the satisfying thoughts, quickly straightened himself, and walked with poise towards the secretary, thanking her and taking the closedown paper from her. Without delay, he grabbed one of his spare pencils under the desk, and began to hastily fill in the blanks of the paper, providing all of the necessary details to shut down Ooarai, as his secretary waited to take it and make it official. Upon signing it, Renta handed it to the secretary, giving her further instructions on when it would take effect.

"I want this paper to be safely kept for a week; after that, I'll retrieve it and bring it with me to the school of interest."

"With all due respect, sir... why didn't you do this at that point?"

"Early bird gets the worm, Ayaka... early bird gets the worm..."

Unnerved, Ayaka quickly rushed out of the room, leaving Renta to gloat over his future triumph. As the door closed, however, Renta got a realization. Ooarai had just won what was pretty much the biggest event in Japan, and they wouldn't go down fighting. They would almost certainly try to force through a final "Hail Mary", a last jab at preserving the school from destruction. That was when he got an idea. A brutal idea. A brutal idea that made him euphoric and bubbling with pure excitement. Wasting not another second to implement another failsafe plan, just in case Ooarai did choose to fight, he grabbed the phone once more, and dialed another number, cackling over his looming triumph as the phone rang, taking its sweet time for its receiver to pick up her line.

"Celebrate for now, Ooarai Girls' Academy... Soon enough, I'll have you closed..."

Shimada Residence

"...so, Okaa-san and I are still trying to figure it out. Jouko-san and the others couldn't really explain it because of our limited time."

"I'm perplexed as well... though I'd recommend not thinking about it too hard, unless you want to give yourself a headache."

"Why not use analogies, Alice-san? Those are probably the best ways to try to explain it."

"They said that analogies will just get me to confess a heresy of theirs, and from what I've learned, Ruzuku, heresy is bad."

"Well, crud. It is that hard after all."

"Yeah, Jouko-san will explain it more in our next fight, hopefully."

"Indeed. My mind's as twisted as Chizuka's about this."

"Well, it looks like we've arrived. See you tomorrow, commander?"

"Mhm. Thanks for the trip."

"Anytime!"

Bidding goodbye to her loyal companions, Alice hopped off the tank and bounded happily towards the residence. Dusting off her shoes and taking them off upon entering the house, she greeted the family servant before making her way to Chiyo's room to brief her on what happened that day. Navigating through the corridors and hallways of the big mansion, Alice arrived at the spacious quarters that her mother occupied, gently opening the door and briskly walking towards her desk. Chiyo seemed busy, her eyes glued to her computer screen. A video was playing, in English, which she could understand. Chiyo, noticing Alice, motioned for her to come to her side, wrapping her arm around her as she arrived. Seating her daughter on her lap, Chiyo watched as the story of Saint Spyridon reached its climax.

"...Can you not see how true all this is, O philosopher? You have said that it is impossible for three to be one, yet even in the material things of the world this can be so."

Mother and daughter watched raptly as the saint took out a piece of terracotta roof tile he had brought from his native Cyprus, lifted it up, and squeezing it, loudly proclaimed,

"In the name of the Father,"

Causing flames to immediately shoot upwards.

"and of the Son,"

Causing water to flow down onto the ground.

"and of the Holy Spirit!"

Opening his hand, Spyridon revealed the remaining clay, the other two elements necessary to form the tile having departed from it. This act, understandably, left the council of Nicaea in shock, leaving the rationalistic philosopher speechless, and unable to respond, and vindicating the Trinitarian party at the council. The video then went on to explain that at the council's conclusion, the Christian Nicene Creed was manifested, Arianism was condemned as a heresy, and even though it attempted a comeback, it would receive the final blow decades later at a second ecumenical council at Constantinople.

Pausing after this part of the video, Chiyo turned to Alice, wishing to know how things had gone for her daughter today, before discussing what they had just seen.

"Well then. Before we talk this, how was school, my dear?"

"Great as usual! I had lots of fun!"

"That's great to hear-"

The phone suddenly rang. Moving away from Alice, Chiyo quickly grabbed the phone, placing it next to her ear as she allowed Alice to sit on her chair, having stood up beforehand.

"Good afternoon. This is Shimada Chiyo, may I please know who I'm speaking to?"

"Miss Shimada, this is Tsuji Renta. I have an important matter to discuss."

"I'm listening."

"I'll be informing you in advance, just in case, that a week from now, or more than that, unless things go smoothly for me, All-Stars will be fighting a match against Ooarai Girls' Academy."

"Ooarai!" Chiyo was surprised by this, covering her mouth to hide her shock. The premise was ridiculous, knowing that Ooarai couldn't even field the maximum amount of tanks in the first round of a tournament, being outnumbered two-to-one in their first tournament sortie. Yes, they had somehow won against Kuromorimine and all the others and won the tournament, but they had just now started their Sensha-do team back up. They were going to face students who had leagues more expertise and skill than them. Heck, a single University crew had many times the experience of all of Ooarai combined, including Miho. Why was Renta even proposing to her this matchup? Was Ooarai riding so high above the clouds, feeling the need to tell Renta so that he could spill the beans on her, not thinking themselves low enough to do it themselves? Or was there some nefarious plot the man was cooking up that she was allowing herself to be used as a pawn for?

"Kindly explain to me your reasoning behind this?"

"Ooarai has been a thorn in my side. More money is going in than coming out, and they were so much in debt that I needed to shut them down before things get worse."

Chiyo could sense falsehood in Renta's reasoning, but remained silent about it, ever the polite woman she was raised to be.

"Now that they've won, yea, they'll get some money from being champions, but it won't be enough to pay everything!"

"I understand, Tsuji-san. I will inform the team about this… thank you for bringing it to my attention…"

"I promise you, Shimada-san, it will be a great help to me. Thanks for your assistance."

"I'm always happy to help, Tsuji-san."

Setting the phone down, Chiyo appeared deeply perplexed. Looking to Alice, she shrugged her shoulders, confused at what on earth Renta had just told her. Alice had heard the whole thing, too, and was equally surprised to find out she was going up against Miho, shrugging her shoulders as well, though sharing a little giggle with Chiyo from all the shrugging.

"It seems our studies on the Trinity will be slowed for a bit… won't it, Alice?"

"Yes, Okaa-san. Especially since Miho-san is a very good commander… but will training really be necessary? I mean…"

"One must never underestimate. That was the fault of the Adult League when they faced us last year. Once again, good work on using their overconfidence to your advantage…"

"Thank you, Okaa-san."

"Ooarai may be small… but they are very much capable on the field. Unless it is an annihilation match, one good shot and the match is as good as lost for us."

"Hai, Okaa-san."

"I expect that you will be able to ensure victory, regardless of the format. Besides, it wouldn't hurt to have some more learning experiences along the way."

Exchanging smiles, Chiyo allowed Alice to return to her room to change, intending to discuss the video they had just watched, before sitting back in her chair, replaying the said video once more, awed at this supernatural feat. Of course, she didn't believe it really happened, but it was a very awe-inspiring moment. She had been researching this topic of the Trinity, and having dug deep into the rabbit hole, she eventually found herself at this video of one of the most prominent saints in Orthodoxy. A man who, though poor and humble, working the shepherd's trade, became one of the most intelligent and clever men of his time, even though he was unlearned and uneducated. Naturally intrigued, she decided to see more of what this channel had to offer, loving herself some good stories.

Grace Lutheran Church, Mito

"Well, Miho, I'm impressed and glad at the same time. Impressed that you're quick to understand, glad that a fellow devout Lutheran taught you all the stuff you need to know."

"Jouko-san's a very good person. We spoke every night, and I've learned a lot from her."

"Then I'll get you scheduled for baptism and confirmation as soon as possible. When do you think you'll be able to do it?"

Miho took some time to think things over. After the banquet, Anzu had come out with another surprise announcement: St. Gloriana had invited Ooarai to fight in an exhibition match that would be held in a week from then. Kuromorimine had understandably declined to participate. The format would be a 2v2, Ooarai and Chi-Ha-Tan Academy against St. Gloriana and Pravda in a flag tank match. She was hoping to be baptized before then, or perhaps, maybe even after the battle. Or, if the pastor was willing, she could do the baptism now, keeping things private. Frankly, although she had just stood up to the heavyweights of Sensha-do, she was still shy and nervous being in front of lots of people she didn't know or recognize, but in this instance, she had good reason to.

"Is it possible to do baptism... now? I know it's after service... but... I want it to be private. Just me and you, you performing the baptism. I'm worried about my friends, they're not so excited with this as I am."

"In that case, we'll do it right now. Now, shall we?"

"Yes… I'm ready."

The pastor looked at Miho with an understanding face. Nodding with a smile, he stood up, exited his office with Miho behind him, and led her outside of the church, to its small backyard. To the side, there was a small pool with a tap next to it that could be activated using a switch. Miho, seeing the pastor motion for her to enter the emptied pool, quickly did what she was told, climbing, then descending the stairs that led into the pool. Once she had stepped in, she stood there, looking on rather nervously as the pastor grabbed a small scoop nearby, opened the tap, allowed it to fill to half, before switching it back off. Moving carefully, the pastor stepped into the pool, before pressing Miho downwards, inviting her to kneel, which she did, thankful in her mind for the clean pool, as well as the she wasn't asked to undress yet, though that quickly reminded her.

"Excuse me… but do you have any spare clothing? You know… since I'll be wet and all."

"The dressing room has some. I'll take you there once we're done with this."

"Okay…"

"You ready? I'll begin now."

With a nod, Miho allowed the pastor to proceed with the baptism, making her choice to take the next big step in her conversion. Her heart began to beat faster as the pastor began to recite Scripture and the other necessary statements before performing the baptism, the weight of what she was about to do coming down on her. She knew that what was about to happen would effectively seal her separation from the Nishizumi traditions, but having spoken enough with Jouko, learning about and knowing what her faith was about, and having accepted it as her own, she was going to do this, no matter what the consequences would be. Her mind was set, her decision was made, and nobody could take that decision away from her. That was her resolve.

As the pastor finished his "solo", he began to ask Miho the final questions to confirm her decision.

"Miho Nishizumi, do you believe in God the Father Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, who sent His Son as the Savior of all people? If so, answer, Yes, I do believe."

"Yes, I do believe..."

"Do you believe in Jesus Christ, His only Son our Lord, who gave His life for you, so that through faith, you can receive forgiveness and everlasting life? If so, answer, Yes, I do believe."

"Yes, I do believe..."

"Do you believe in the Holy Spirit, who has brought you to faith; that Christ is seeking to impact the world through the Christian Church, of which you are a part; in your partnership with others of the communion of faith, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting? If so, answer, Yes, I do believe."

"Yes, I do believe…"

"And will you place in your hands, and on your heart, the Word of God and its teachings, bring yourself regularly to worship in God's house, and wholeheartedly receive instruction in the Christian faith, that you may know Christ, and follow Him? If so, answer, Yes, with the help of God."

"Yes, with the help of God…"

"Almighty and Eternal God, we pray that you would give this child, here at her Baptism, your everlasting love in Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit. Honor her, O Lord, according to Your Word and promise: "Ask, and it shall be given you, seek and you shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you"; so that she may obtain the everlasting gift of this heavenly washing and come to the Kingdom which you have promised; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen…"

Miho closed her eyes and bowed her head in prayer as the pastor lifted the pail above her head, and, with teary eyes, braced for the water that would soon pour onto her bare head. This was it.

"Miho Nishizumi… I baptize you in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."

Upon completing these words, the pastor tipped the pail, allowing water to pour unceasingly onto Miho's bare head. It took a few seconds for the contents to be emptied. As the water was poured onto her, Miho felt a sense of being washed clean inside, as if a large part of her was being swept away, and being replaced with something new. It was like being born again, as she had read before.

Once the pail was completely empty, the pastor placed the pail to the side, placed his hands on Miho's damp head, and proceeded to the final part of the baptism.

"Almighty God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom you are born again of water and of the Spirit, and who has forgiven you all your sins, strengthen you with His grace to life everlasting. Amen."

"Amen," uttered Miho, tears streaming down her face.

"We thank you, Gracious Father, for receiving Miho through Baptism into the covenant and kingdom of your grace, in which we have forgiveness of sin and the hope of everlasting life. We pray that, being buried to sin with Christ in Baptism, she may be as St. Paul says in Romans 6: 'dead unto sin and alive unto righteousness,' that in the end, together with all believers, they may obtain the promised inheritance in heaven. Strengthen us all in our own baptisms, so that we may share eternity together, and the salvation you have given us all, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen."

With that, the pastor wrapped his arms around Miho, who did the same as she began to sob out of happiness, clutching the pastor in her arms out of love and gratitude. She knew it wasn't the end of her new beginning, but it was among the last steps to completing her conversion, and she wanted to complete it as soon as possible. After getting the pastor's attention once again, Miho made her second request amid her sobs.

"C-confirm me t-too! Please!"

The pastor was initially surprised, as usually, in order for someone to be confirmed, they had to undergo catechesis, a process of learning and teaching which usually took several months, perhaps several years to complete, depending on the effectiveness of the catechesis and its teaching. But, knowing that Miho now already knew and accepted all of the fundamentals and necessary doctrines for confirmation, being effectively catechized by Jouko, and herself, over the past couple of months, and knowing that the church congregation would be more than happy to accept Miho's confirmation, decided that it wouldn't hurt to confirm her right after baptism, as she met all of the requirements by this point. However, he quickly asked her a few questions relating to Lutheran theology. To his pleasant surprise, Miho could answer every one, proving how much she had studied, both dependently and independently of Jouko's teachings. With his suspicions done away with, the pastor motioned for Miho to follow him back inside.

"Alright, then. Come, follow me."

The pastor led Miho back inside the church as he wrapped a towel around her to shield her from the air, taking her to the dressing room once again to allow her to change into the spare clothes that were provided inside. While she was changing into her new clothes, the pastor returned to his office and grabbed the Lutheran Service Book that included the rite of confirmation, opening it to the appropriate page, and setting it on a lectern where both he and Miho could read it. Soon enough, Miho was done, and was making her way into the church. The pastor directed her to the pulpit, having her kneel before the altar as the pastor began the rite, allowing Miho to read the responses.

"Beloved in the Lord, our Lord Jesus Christ said to His apostles: 'All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded You; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.' You have been baptized and catechized in the Christian faith according to our Lord's bidding. Jesus said, 'Whoever confesses Me before men, I will also confess before My Father who is in heaven. But whoever denies Me before men, I will also deny before My Father who is in heaven.' Lift up your heart, therefore, to the God of all grace and joyfully give answer to what I now ask you in the name of the Lord."

The pastor proceeded to ask a series of questions in order for Miho to affirm her confirmation. First, she was asked if she acknowledged the gifts given to her through baptism. Next, she was asked if she rejected the devil and his works and ways. Afterwards, the Trinity was brought forward, questioning Miho if she believed in the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Next, Miho was asked if she held Scripture as the inspired word of God, and confessed the Lutheran Church's doctrine to be faithful and true. He then asked Miho if she intended to hear the Word of God and receive the Lord's Supper faithfully, wholeheartedly live according to God's Word in all aspects, and remain steadfast in the faith, even if she had to suffer death rather than fall away.

Miho replied "yes" to every single one, saying what was put in the service book with her whole heart, accepting all that she needed to accept, confirming each tenet and doctrine stated in the book, and expressing agreement with each one. Each "yes" was given with audible conviction and devotion, as if Miho wanted to show the pastor how much she cared for this decision that she had made. And looking to his eyes, she could see that he got the message.

With this part of the ceremony completed, it was time to fully confirm Miho to the faith, and complete her conversion. Placing his hands on Miho's head, and making the sign of the cross on her forehead, the pastor solemnly spoke the words of confirmation.

"We rejoice with thankful hearts that you have been baptized and have received the teaching of the Lord. You have confessed the faith and been absolved of your sins. As you continue to hear the Lord's Word and receive His Blessed Sacrament, He who has begun a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. Miho Nishizumi, the almighty God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has given you the new birth of water and of the Spirit and has forgiven you all your sins, strengthen you with His grace to life everlasting."

"Amen."

The pastor then proceeded to several verses that were appropriate for the occasion, opening his Bible to several bookmarked pages.

"From there you will seek the Lord your God, and you will find him if you search with all your heart and soul. Commit your way to the Lord; trust also in Him, and He will bring it to pass. Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. Revere the Lord, and serve him in sincerity and in faithfulness."

After this, he finished the rite with a prayer and the benediction.

Let us pray. Lord God, heavenly Father, we thank and praise You for Your great goodness in bringing these Your sons and daughters to the knowledge of Your Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ, and enabling them both with the heart to believe and with the mouth to confess His saving name. Grant that, bringing forth the fruits of faith, they may continue steadfast and victorious to the day when all who have fought the good fight of faith shall receive the crown of righteousness; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever."

"Amen."

"Peace be with you."

"Amen…"

With that, the confirmation was complete. Miho, the disgraced member of the hyper-traditionalist House of Nishizumi and Ooarai's current Sensha-do commander, was now baptized and confirmed as one of the very few Lutherans of Japan. Sharing another heartfelt embrace with the pastor, once again, tears of joy began to flow down her face. She was then led outside, into the afternoon sun. As Miho's tear-streaked face looked up to the sky, she could just about make out a distinct smile being formed in the clouds. Knowing what this meant, it caused her to cry even more. She felt great, and although it would be a very hard path moving forwards, she had faith that with God's help, nothing could deter her from her newfound faith.

As she departed the church, Miho was given a special translated Bible by the pastor, as well as several copies of translated Lutheran works, including the Small and Large Catechisms of Luther, for her to study in person or with other students, if she wished to teach them a few things about Lutheranism, in addition to a bag carrying her wet school clothes. Bidding farewell, Miho once more thanked the pastor, who, in response, offered her a quick correction.

"It's not I who should be thanked, Miho. To quote Saint Chrysostom, 'Glory be to God for all things.' Never forget that."

Miho nodded in agreement, acknowledging her mistake. Before leaving, however, she still had one question left in her mind.

"I… still don't know your name. May I please know what it is?"

"You may call me by my baptismal name, Andrew."

"Okay… God bless you, Pastor Andrew-san."

"And may God be with you, Miho. I'll see you tomorrow for your first communion."

Smiling back at Andrew, Miho waved goodbye as she hailed a taxi to take her back to Ooarai and the carrier, her life now changed forever. She thought about how it had come to this point, how a chance meeting with Jouko at the stadium and a ruined Bible she had inadvertently brought with her all those weeks ago had led her to this moment. But it had all come together so good. Even so, that Miho felt that circumstance was an inappropriate word to describe the past series of events. It felt as if this were the greatest moment of her life. Yes, she still had her worries, especially how her mother and the wider Sensha-do world might react, but just as Jouko had taught her, and just as she had affirmed earlier, she now wholeheartedly believed that God was with her, and that everything would be alright. It was this reassurance that had helped her through the tournament, and now, she had never felt so happy in a long time.

As soon as she got back on the carrier, she rushed to her room, and, locking the door behind her, prayed like never before, thanking God over and over again for His help in her life, so much so that within the hour, she was so thoroughly exhausted that she fell asleep on the mattress, peacefully assured that her life was in good hands.

Author's Note: And that's a wrap for the first volume, or part, of Saga of Jouko! This chapter was thankfully faster to finish, motivation helped me to write a lot each day, and I managed to grind out the last scene entirely last night, so hopefully the end product is good. Now, in regards to Der Film, I think you know where this is going, so if you'd like, please let me know any ideas on how to approach the battle, as I feel that though it will be more interesting, it will be harder to write. Any ideas, in addition to the usual criticism and advice, are warmly welcomed.

Once more, special thanks to florentinomain00f for proofreading the chapter, as well as his help in giving much-needed advice and support for so long. I cannot thank him enough for his help, so be sure to check out "Boots on the Ground", which I've helped with co-writing for a few chapters. Pretty good worldbuilding, colorful characters, and awesome stories, I'm sure you'll love it.

Anyways, don't expect a long hiatus. I'll still be working, pumping out new chapters as much as my energy can take. I hope you've enjoyed the read, despite the hot topic, and thanks for the support given, it means a lot. I'll see you in the next one!

P.S. In case you're wondering, the video mentioned in this chapter is from a great Orthodox YouTube channel named "Trisagion Films". They make exceptional animated content focused on the lives of the Orthodox saints, in addition to content that revolves around other Orthodox-related topics, and they've grown to be one of my most favorite channels to watch. The video in question is entitled "Saint Spyridon the Wonderworker and Champion of Orthodoxy" if you are interested. Give them a try, you'll love it.

P.S. 2: The Rite of Baptism, as recited by Pastor Andrew, was taken from the Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd's website, and what is said will differ, depending on which Lutheran church you attend. The Rite of Confirmation, on the other hand, is more or less universal, being taken from page 272 of the Lutheran Service Book, which details how parts of a service should go in Lutheranism.