MuvLuv Alternative Schwarzesmarken:Volume 1 Chapter2
Progress: 63/110 pages done --Gabgrave (talk) 11:57, 1 September 2013 (CDT)--Gabgrave (talk) 11:18, 25 August 2013 (CDT)
Chapter two
The Girl from the West
+++January 13, 1983
++1100hrs
++The German Democratic Republic
++Cottbus District, Cottbus military base
When she came to, her entire vision was flooded with white.
“...A wall? No...maybe...the ceiling...?” Katia whispered in vague awareness.
She turned her head slowly, looking around her. An unfamiliar room. Furniture—a battered table. The pungent smell of disinfectant. Katia noticed that she had been put to bed, dressed in simple pajamas.
“But...I was fighting the BETA...”
At a glance, it was obvious that this place wasn’t a base which the United Nations forces had built. The glass window at the bed side rattled with a high-pitched howl, piercing her ears.
“Аh...!“
Holding her breath, she turned her attention out the window. Beyond it stretched a wide snow-covered field. The world was painted in only two colors—black and white.
(The engines of a jump unit? But that doesn’t sound like an F-4 or F-5G...)
“Is this...a GDR (East German Army) Tactical Fighter Base...?”
Just as that thought crossed her mind, Kate remembered the last memories she had. Why was she still alive?
“The MiG-21… so… it saved me …”
That single scene had remained with her as her consciousness faded away, a sight that would be forever scorched into her…
++1110hrs
++German Democratic Republic
++Cottbus District
On both sides of the highway, stretched endless snow-covered fields with coppices scattered here and there. The only man-made object in the rural landscape was a chain of giant electric transmission towers going beyond the horizon ... No, wait. There was more, five MiG-21s, walking toward the West.
"It's a bleak sight, as always."
Theodore sighed, looking at the back of his companions’ TSFs. They were on the way back from a salvage mission. The aim was to recover from the fields of battle any broken tactical surface fighters, tanks and other equipment for salvage – before they became the prey of the BETA. The squadron was followed by a convoy of trucks carrying the collected salvage.
The 666th Tactical Surface Fighter Squadron, "Schwarzesmarken", had taken part in repelling a major BETA offensive – a battle which had lasted three interminable days, but finally, ended. Looking again at the unfolding scene before his eyes, he drearily heaved a sigh. There was about an hour left before returning to base, and the landscape had not changed at all.
TSF pilots rarely have to perform marches on foot, using the legs of the machines. Even more so when in a totally secure area in the rear.
They kept silent most of the time. If a similar march had happen a month ago, Annette and the younger pilots of the squadron would have broadcasted cheerful chatter in the air incessantly, but now all of them had died in the fighting, except for Annette, and she was ordered to undergo medical treatment.
“—By the way, Walter, have you heard of this joke before?”
Irisdine’s casual voice came through the wireless, breaking the painful silence.
“—Hoh? Which one?” Walter asked with interest.
"—At the dawn of the space age, the first satellites that both the Soviet Union and the United States had concurrently launched met in orbit. When communications with ground control were cut off, the two satellites began to talk:
‘Guten Tag, Freund, jetzt können wir schließlich in unserer Muttersprache sprechen.’ <Good day, friend, now we can finally speak in our mother tongue>”
Walter and Pham both burst into laughter. It was well known that the space program of both the United States and the USSR, grew out of the scientific and technological heritage of the Third Reich.
However, Theodore did not laugh. He had no wish to join in the merriment.
(What does she have in mind?)
Glaring at the face of Irisdine in the communications window as she tells another anecdote, he tightly squeezed the control handles again.
(That Eishi, what should I do......?)
+++January 10
++1310hrs
++Territory of the former Polish National Republic
++Approximately 26 kilometers from the West coast of the Neisse
++Krosno Odrzańskie Ruins
Pulling out from the ruins of Krosno-Odrzańskie which was swarmed with BETA, Theodore decided to move with boost jumps. The remaining amount of propellant was less than 10 percent. He could not afford another engagement with BETA.
Besides—
“Ahh, hot......”
A faint moan— He examined the state of the Bundeswehr (West German Army) girl, who was attached with a pair of straps in front of the seat. With every boost jump, the sudden acceleration twisted her body painfully. Theodore had to shoehorn the girl found in the broken F-4 into the cab of his own Balalaika. Since carrying the F-4 Phantom using a single MiG-21 was impossible, he was forced to abandon it in place. Most likely the fighter had already become the victim of countless numbers of Tank Class approaching from all sides.
(I picked up a troublesome package......)
Members of the NPA (Nationale Volksarmee; National People’s Army; East German Army) were strictly forbidden to have contact with the soldiers of the Bundeswehr. Officially, the ban was to prevent information leakage from the East German army and infiltration of spies in its ranks, but the real reason was to prevent the defection of soldiers to the West. So far, countless soldiers who were suspected to have contacted the West German Army to seek asylum to the west have been executed by the army and the Stasi.
Seen in that sense, for Theodore who has special circumstances, this would be indeed in an unfavorable situation, although it was only a coincidence that he had rescued a Bundeswehr soldier. If he took the wrong step, it was likely that he will again be under the eye of the Stasi. In the Socialist East Germany, just thinking of reconciliation with the capitalist West would get you marked as a person with dangerous ideas.
"Damnit, I was just following orders...... whatever happens is not my responsibility......"
The shock as the machine’s legs pounds the ground causes the control unit to jolt. The girl breathed with difficulty, as the small shoulder bag that was fastened to the belt bounced about. The personal belongings of the girl had been inside the medical kit storage space from the F-4’s control unit.
(Those western guys, carrying their personal items in their cockpit......)
The indescribable feelings of displeasure boiled in my mind.
“Katia Waldheim......”
With the girl’s face, which still held the childishness of youth, in mind, Theodore quietly muttered to himself the name written on her ID record.
Theodore linked up with Irisdine, having arrived at the rendezvous point simultaneously.
“—You made it safely, Unterleutnant”
The view of Irisdine’s TSF projected onto his retina made Theodore breath in sharply. Most of the fuselage was smeared with pieces of flesh and body fluids.
“—Were you able to rescue the pilot of that F-4?”
“...... Eh? Ah, Yes.”
Momentarily taken aback, Theodore gathered himself and answered.
“The pilot is secured inside my control unit. Currently unconscious but there seems to be no injuries”
“—Affiliation?”
“—The Bundeswehr. A girl......”
“—I need a confirmation. Forward the data to me.”
I guess it’s reasonable that an oral report would not be trusted. After all, I had abandoned a comrade in battle earlier--.
“Transmitting video. See for your—“
Theodore glanced at Irisdine as he spoke— and his tongue froze in mid-sentence.
Irisdine was staring at the projected image intently, looking genuinely astonished.
“Err—“
In the next moment, Irisdine suddenly fixed her eyes on Theodore, openly meeting his gaze. Pinned by her eyes, Theodore lost awareness of his surroundings. He gulped. It was the first time that he had seen Irisdine show such a humane expression.
“—I’m sorry. She looked like the splitting image of my little cousin in Berlin.”
“Ahh...... verstanden.”
Certainly, anyone would have blanched if they saw their relatives in the Bundeswehr—.
“—Have you found out what's her unit?”
“According to the ID record, she is from the 101st Tactical Surface Fighter Battalion, Second Company.”
“—Her unit must have just arrived on the west bank of the Oder river. Indeed, they must have been attacked by the BETA while in the middle of mop-up...... Her name?”
“Katia C. Waldheim.”
“…During the rescue, there was only the one machine?”
“Yes. A single unit. I believe she was not able to escape because of the damage to the Jump Unit.”
“—And the fighter?”
“Abandoned. There was a swarm of Tank Class drawing close at the time—“
“—Is that so.”
Irisdine gave an approving smile.
“Well done, Unterleutnant.”
Theodore nodded with mixed feelings. He had been freshly reminded of the fact that his fate lies in her hands in the recent dispute with Irisdine.
Nothing would change the fact that the commander is a monstrous devil, a ‘Heroine’ of the Stasi who would willingly selling out her own blood and family— besides, the enmity arising from the recent altercation wouldn’t recede just like that.
“—Unterleutnant Eberbach”
Irisdine suddenly asked with a serious face.
“—What are your thoughts on the current state of the company?”
“State… of the company…?”
Theodore repeated the question reflexively, wondering about its intent.
“—Indeed. I’m not talking about our recent conversation. I just want to hear your opinion as a pilot.”
In the midst of bewilderment, Theodore considered the question. Even if he did not want to reply, he could only answer the question as ordered.
“I think that we are in a fairly dangerous situation.”
With a dry feeling in his throat, Theodore continued.
“In today’s battle, our unit started with 8 members. As such, it is indicative that conducting future Laseragd operations against the Laser class would only become difficult from now on.”
Irisdine nodded in silence. This time, it seems that she had no intention of rebuking Theodore.
“… … If Unterleutnant Hosenfeld becomes unable to fight, the company would only be left with 6 machines… … half the standard strength.”
And yet, missions would still be assigned to them as if they were at the full strength of 12 machines.
“The next time we have a Laserjagd operation, it is questionable if we can accomplish the mission successfully.
Giving her a challenging look, Theodore firmly shut his mouth. Although he believed that his fighting spirit was relatively stronger compared to those whose spirit had broke, still—
“—Well done, that was an exemplary answer.”
Irisdine gave a satisfied nod. However, she had a predatory expression on her face.
“—In that case, you would be agreeable to my plan, I would say”
“Plan? What plan…?”
“—This Eishi, we shall have her volunteer, to join the 666 Tatical Surface Fighter Squadron.”
“Wh-!?”
(This child… this person from the Bundeswehr, to add her to the team, you say…!?)
“—Like you said, our company is in a dangerous situation now. With our current combat strength, the success of future missions is uncertain. Besides, we do not know how soon we will be able to get replacement pilots.”
“What, you…”
Theodore gave a minute shake of his head in disbelieve. However, Irisdine ignored him and continued.
“—It is necessary to immediately replenish our combat strength ourselves, since we cannot rely on the NPA.”
“You, just what the hell are you thinking!!?” Theodore yelled.
Overwhelmed and bewildered, he raised his voice again like he did 30 minutes ago in the recent argument with her.
“This person… this child is from the Bundeswehr! You don’t have the authority to do that anyway! What will you do if she is actually a spy!?”
Theodore’s temples begin to throb alarmingly.
"We would definitely be suspected of assisting in espionage…!"
(Or else, since she is a member of the Statsi herself, would there would be no problem with whatever she does…!? No, even then…)
Whether or not she was a spy, Theodore didn’t want to be near a West German person. He didn’t want to come under the attention of the authorities.
“No matter how short on manpower we are...! Firstly, without the permission of Commissar Gr… Jeckeln—”
“—Did you think, that I would speak without having thought of that?”
“…!”
Theodore shut his mouth. There was a note in Irisdine’s tone that sounded like she had something hidden up her sleeve.
“—Firstly, there is a procedure to legally incorporate pilots from the west into the NPA.”
“WHAT!? A procedure? Since when—”
“—She only has to defect.”
“…!!”
Reflexively clenching his fists, Theodore felt something like frustration and impatience rush through him.
“—Under the international treaty that was mediated during the Cold War, East and West Germany recognized each other as sovereign states with equal rights.”
Irisdine provided an explanation without faltering, as if she had rehearsed beforehand.
“—However, there is a difference in the treatment of citizens. Both German countries feel that the citizens on the other side “belonged to us originally”. In other words, if a West German citizen wishes to seek political asylum in East Germany, they would be able to become a East German citizen without having to go through any complicated process. –The GDR administration acknowledges this as well.”
For one to be both a fellow citizen and a potential enemy at the same time – that official stance was the strange reality born from the cold war.
“—So, it is possible for legal admission into the NPA. Although an examination of the reason for defection would be needed for a transfer into the Unit, which would be within the scope of Oberleutnant Jeckeln’s duties, and since there is a precedent, it’s basically feasible. Of course, she herself must be willing as well, and once that is cleared, all is well. Political indoctrination can be left to Oberleutnant Jeckeln then.”
“But… what if she is a spy, what then…”
Theodore asked, choosing his words carefully. This conversation could be recorded as well, like with the previous argument—
Shaking her head quietly, Irisdine replied.
“—I believe that there is no possibility of her being a spy. Because I highly doubt that the Bundeswehr would sacrifice an entire company, just to get this girl in.”
“Sacrifice… an entire company…?”
“—I verified it just now, when I fought the BETA in order to confirm whether there were any survivors. Unfortunately, I didn’t find a single one…”
Indeed, considering the current situation of the war, it would definitely be illogical to make such a large sacrifice just to send in a spy. Also, if Theodore had been late for even just a second, the BETA would have already eaten her. Being able to rescue that Eishi, was only by fortune, surely.
That being said—
“Even if she really isn’t a spy, others wouldn’t be so understanding. You should know that very well!”
“—You need not worry about the Stasi.”
“…!!”
“—Management of military personnel is under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Defence. The Army will not keep quiet if the Ministry of State Security were to infringe upon their authority. Though both the military and Stasi are controlled by the same party, they are still political rivals.”
(What she said, can it be true…?)
To Theodore, the Army and the Stasi were one and the same. Either one has the power of the state to rule with an iron fist.
“—Therefore, as long as they are unable to provide any concrete evidence, this Eishi cannot be arrested without warning. If they take any overt action, the Army may well turn it into a political issue.”
“…However, I doubt Oberleutnant Jeckeln would be swayed by your reasoning. In the end, won’t it be the responsibility of the Oberleutnant to handle her?”
For the inflexible Commissar Gretel, it would be strange to expect anything but hatred towards people from the West.
“—If the company gets annihilated, she too will die… Well, it’s going to take some ingenuity to persuade her…”
“…Then, what about the will of this girl?”
Indicating the unconscious girl with his chin, Theodore questioned Irisdine.
“What you just said, about her wanting to defect to the East, she has to agree to it right? Wouldn’t that be absurd?!”
Theodore said, as the underlying hatred grew.
As if there is a single person that likes this country enough that they would defect to it!
“—If my guess is correct, it’s possible that she holds good will towards the East.”
“Guess…?”
“A single TSF, fighting without backup… don’t you think that’s strange?”
“Ah…”
“—There’s a high possibility that she was caught up in some trouble. Besides, she is a fellow German...”
Irisdine paused for a moment, and then continued.
“—So, I would like your full cooperation on this matter… For starters, I need your help to persuade Gretel.”
As Irisdine’s blue eyes bore into Theodore, he somehow sensed great sorrow and determination hidden within.
“—As you know, she has a stronger sense of pride compared to others. In my opinion, it is unlikely that she will meekly accept this. That is where you come in.”
“…But, why me—”
“—That’s because you won’t aggravate her pride. For example, orders from me, or orders from Walter, which one do you feel less resentful of?”
“Urgh…”
Theodore choked on that. Although he had thought that he didn’t mind having it known, having it pointed out to him directly made him fully understand just how thin a line he had been on.
“—Considering how many times you have saved Gretel’s life, she would listen to you more than me, at the least.”
“…Can’t Walter do the asking?”
“—Walter is too close to me. Not to mention he was originally an Unteroffiziere (NCO). To Gretel who is a Commissioned Officer, he would definitely be a target for discrimination. He isn’t the right person for this.”
Theodore shook his head in doubt. He didn’t believe that Gretel would hold that high of an opinion of him.
“—You won’t know the result if you don’t try. And there is nothing to lose even if you fail, so it’s worth a try. If lets say everything goes well, the fighting power of the company can be recovered.”
“…”
“—I will carry out the persuasion of Unterleutnant Waldheim myself. That is all. Do you copy?”
Theodore swallowed dryly. The veins in his head continued to throb. Every breath he took felt like lead. Thinking desperately, he squeezed the control sticks.
(…What’s with this flow of events?! Making light of the Stasi, even trying to manipulate a political officer… Despite knowing all communications are recorded… Damn it!)
Deep down inside Theodore understood the rationale behind Irisdine’s plan. It is a fact that there are only seven pilots left in the company.
Furthermore, during the withdrawal action at Poland, under Irisdine’s command the only survivor who escaped the destruction of the Polish Army, Sylvia, was incorporated into the 666th TSF squadron. She had insisted on taking in a foreign Eishi that time as well.
But then…
(This girl, she continued to fight against the BETA alone in a single machine. At the least, she won’t be dead weight…)
Realizing that temptation was sinking in, Theodore shook his head to clear his mind.
“I have a question…”
Theodore forced himself to ask.
“What if, I was to say no…?”
Irisdine twisted her lips into an evil grin upon hearing those words.
“—Did you think that I would permit that?”
“…Tsk!”
“—In that case I would hand you over to the Stasi. It would be a simple matter to produce evidence that you were secretly contacting this Eishi.”
(This lousy bitch…!)
Theodore directed a murderous glare at Irisdine.
“—Up to now, everything I have done has been for the survival of the company… For the company to be restored as soon as possible, this is the only way.”
“—Be at ease. I will guarantee your personal safety. I have no intention of speaking of this to anyone other than Walter.”
Theodore had no choice but to admit that there was no escaping this. He could only bite on his lip till he tasted blood.
What if he were to inform Gretel of everything immediately upon return? That was also an option, but who knows what Walter would do then? Besides, if Irisdine was taken away, even if Theodore himself were to survive, it was very likely that the company would end up being annihilated shortly thereafter.
(There isn’t anyway out of this…!)
Feeling the humiliation and regret on the lack of power over his fate, Theodore loudly exhaled before replying.
“…I understand. I still have no intention to accept or trust you. However I will cooperate with you on this matter…”
Irisdine merely nodded in silence.
Theodore looked away from her cold blue eyes. He did not want to see her face right now.
“—Well then, let’s get going. If we delay too long, the others would start to worry.”
As she started moving the machine’s legs, Irisdine casually added.
“—About the log of the conversations with me, the unnecessary parts will be deleted so you need not worry. Well, to keep the flow natural, synthesized speech will be left in the appropriate places.”
“HUH?! For all of the recorded conversations—?!”
“—In general, yes. The recorders that the Stasi planted in the machines, we will overwrite them using the fake logs.”
Theodore was speechless. Looking at him, Irisdine gave an innocent smile.
“—To survive in this hell, such skills are needed, Kamerad Unterleutnant.”
Gretel reacted just as Irisdine predicted.
“You must be joking, Kamerad Kapitän!”
Gretel’s yell echoed around the hanger in Cottbus base, as she confronted Irisdine who had just returned. Expecting to move out again, the rest of the company had remained in their fortified suits.
“Adding a Bundeswehr pilot into the squadron?! Have you lost your mind?! Even if our combat strength is in dire status… what will you do if she turns out to be a spy?!”
Her face red with anger, Gretel stalked up to Irisdine.
“She’s someone from West Germany, who knows what she might be plotting! Also, do you really want her mingling with our troops?!”
Irisdine gave Gretel a silent, measured look. Theodore could feel the silent pressure that was directed at the Commissar.
“…Tsk! …Kamerad Unterleutnant! What are your thoughts?”
Breaking away from the pressure of that stare, Gretel turned to Theodore instead.
“There is no need to hold back because you are in front of your superior officer. Let me hear what you truly think.”
Privately surprised at how well everything was developing according to her predictions, Theodore started to reply as if this was the first time he had heard of Irisdine’s reckless plan.
“There is certainly a high chance that she is a spy… And personally, I feel that it’s unacceptable to join forces with those Western guys. While using the GDR as a shield, they would surely take that chance to be the first to escape from Europe.”
Gretel snorted upon hearing that.
“…However, from a practical point of view, I think that it would be alright to do so.”
“…Tsk!”
Glaring at Theodore, Gretel loudly clicked her tongue in displeasure. Theodore continued ‘apologetically’.
“When I rescued her, this Pilot was determinedly fighting the BETA all alone by herself. Even to me, who has been on the battlefields for more than two years, I feel that she has no lack of fighting spirit.”
As if there was any useful information to be stolen on this base… he swallowed those words.
Gretel was making an unpleasant face. Her actual experience in combat was much less than Theodore’s after all.
“Skill wise, considering the amount of training, she would definitely be better than a mere novice. In order to quickly restore the company’s combat strength, I think that she’s our best choice.”
“Damn you…”
Having spat that out, Gretel asked again to confirm.
“In other words, you agree with Kamerad Kapitän’s proposal?”
“Sadly, yes.”
Theodore faked an uncomfortable expression as he said that.
“When the time comes, she can be used and thrown away, is what I think.”
Theodore came to attention, as if to show that those were his real thoughts.
“But, that is a person from the West…”
Gretel started to pace briskly around the area as she thought it over, showing a distressed face.
—After several seconds, it seemed that Gretel finished collecting her thoughts, and she stood face to face with Irisdine again.
“Kamerad Kapitän, do you know what they think of you in the Army? The reason you are called a ‘hero’, did you think that we were unaware?”
Theodore quietly froze. This was the first time he heard Gretel speak of Irisdine’s past.
“The only reason I am making this proposal, is for sake of defending the Fatherland and the Party from the BETA to the end.”
“…Truly?”
“You know why they call me a ‘hero’? It’s so that when the Unit gets annihilated, the Party has someone that they can hold responsible, Kamerad Oberleutnant.”
Irisdine calmly declared. However, the fury in her blue eyes was unmistakable.
Gretel continued to glare at Irisdine with suspicion for another moment, and then gave in with a sigh.
“Our country is a democracy as the name suggests. We will not refuse a defector from the West. After confirming her intention, she will be placed under temporary protective custody until the investigation by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is complete and her defection is accepted. As for incorporating her into the company, if I present the case as a special circumstance under the present state of emergency due to the BETA assault…”
“In other words, there’s no problem?”
Irisdine asked, as her eyes sparkled with mischief.
“Come to think of it… If the Unit said to be the strongest in the German Democratic Republic were to be lost, the morale of the whole Army would be affected. As a Commissar, you cannot overlook that, right? So, we must first confirm the will of the person. We cannot allow someone without the will to fight for us into the Army after all… Once that Eishi awakens, I’d better confirm it myself...”
Theodore kept a straight face, forcing his body to be still.
(Is she going to accept Irisdine’s suggestion…?!)
“It’s my decision whether to accept this as an exception, once I have examined the background of this Eishi. If I were to find out that she is a spy, she will be executed at once. Even if she is accepted, as a person from the West, it will be necessary to give her a complete political indoctrination.”
“Ah, I will leave that to you then, Kamerad Oberleutnant.”
Seeing a relieved smile appear on Irisdine’s face, Theodore was aware that even that was part of the act.
“—This sort of thing really isn’t my forte…”
+++January 13
++1110 hours
++The German Democratic Republic
++Cottbus District
Theodore sighed. The dregs of the memories from 3 days ago were still stuck in his mind. While staring at Irisdine, he sank into his gloomy thoughts again.
(This woman, is she really a dog of the Stasi? No, otherwise she wouldn’t have threatened me… Then, is it truly in order to prevent the destruction of the company that she took in that kid? Damn it, what is the truth?)
—The only certain thing, was that he and Irisdine now shared a secret. If he disobeyed her… this time he would be finished for sure…
The throbbing started again, as he recalled what happened three years before. Theodore squeezed his eyes shut.
(I already decided never to get involved with the Stasi again…)
—At that moment, the loud roar of turboprop engines came from the skies to the west.
Theodore checked the tactical map to confirm who that was. The 200th Bomber Wing, East German Air Force. The Wing consisted of 12 TU-95’s, a strategic bomber made by the Soviet Union. In order to avoid laser irradiation from the BETA occupied territories, they were using a low altitude flight formation.
(They must be on the way to execute an area denial bombing run…)
Theodore purposely diverted his train of thought. Otherwise, his mind would just end up going around in circles.
(Those daily penetrating raids into the BETA’s buffer zone. Even though the appearance of the Laser Class on the front is rare, it’s still a tough job.)
“—All hands, Achtung!”
Hearing Irisdine’s even voice through the comms, Theodore suppressed the urge to click his tongue.
“—I received a report from base. The Eishi that was rescued finally woke up after three days. Isn’t that great, Unterleutnant Eberbach?”
“…Yeah.”
Theodore replied indifferently.
“—Once we return back to base, we will begin the cross-examination to debrief her. Comrades Oberleutnant Jeckeln and Unterleutnant Eberbach, gather at the briefing room. The Oberleutnant and I will speak with her first to get her story, after which we will introduce Unterleutnant Eberbach.”
Gretel glared at Theodore with disgust.
(Don’t look at me. Damn bitch ordered me to recover her…)
“—Ah, one more thing, Unterleutnant Eberbach”
“…What is it?”
Theodore replied tensely. Every action by Irisdine placed him under even more stress.
“—That girl you saved, seems to be a rather well brought up child.”
Irisdine told Theodore with a smile of approval.
“—She said that she wanted to thank the pilot who saved her life”
++1415 hours
++German Democratic Republic
++Cottbus, Cottbus military base
“For now, I will report what I found out so far from the cross-examination.”
In front of the sick room that was used as a temporary interrogation room, Gretel opened her notebook as she spoke.
Theodore nodded silently. Until the cross-examination by Gretel and Irisdine was completed, he had been forced to wait on standby outside the room for almost two hours.
“Unterleutnant Katia Waldheim. Assigned to the United Nations 1st Atlantic Ocean command, German Federal Army 101st TSF battalion, Third Platoon, Second Squadron… her unit was deployed at Ryneveld base.”
Gretel narrowed her eyes, squinting.
“…15 years old. Born in Hamburg. She was still a student last year, but the death of both parents in a traffic accident triggered her application into the military. After going through accelerated training for half a year, she was assigned to her current unit... In short, she is nothing but a novice…”
Hearing a past that was similar to his, Theodore felt that there was nothing particularly touching about it.
“However, as you expected, she went through another half a year of training after her assignment to the unit. She arrived in East Germany at the end of last year, after which she participated in several mop-up missions. It seemed that she pissed herself in her first battle.”
Theodore nodded in understanding. It would be unusual for someone to go through their first battle without that “Rite of Passage” occurring.
“In the incident three days ago, she remembered having sortied, but not what happened after that. She does recall the fact that you rescued her though.”
“…”
“Although I cannot tell if that Pilot’s words are true… The circumstance of her rescue seems to match your report.”
Theodore wanted to sigh. Being thought of as a “savior” strongly disgusted him.
“One last thing. Considering the burden on her psyche, we have hidden the fact that the main force of her company was completely destroyed. Take care not to let it leak out in your words. That is all for now.”
With that, Gretel closed the notebook.
“She responded quite readily to casual questions, though she did not divulge any internal information regarding the Bundeswehr.”
“Then the possibility of her being a spy is…?”
“We are continuing the investigation into her background.”
Theodore silently nodded in understanding. –The GDR would get their own spies in the East to check on the background of possible spies.
“But, well, how should I put this…”
Gretel added with amazed disbelieve.
“If that person really is a spy, then they must think that we are total idiots.”
“What…?”
“Follow me. I must say though, I’m allowing this only at the demand of Comrade Kapitän. Understand that under normal circumstances you will not be allowed to show your face.”
It’s not like I wanted to show my face either– Swallowing those words, Theodore passed through the door.
—In the sickroom, a girl with a large ponytail sat on the bed in pajamas– Katia Waldheim. Sitting on a chair beside her was Irisdine, who was talking to her with a voice recorder at her side.
Theodore ran his eyes over the girl’s body thoughtfully. There didn’t seem to be anything wrong with her condition, he decided.
“Ah, are you…!”
As soon as she saw Theodore’s face, Katia leaped to her feet. Nervousness, excitement …and sincere respect, were mixed together in the expression on her child-like face.
“Erm, are you, Unterleutnant Theodore Eberbach…?”
“…I am.”
Theodore answered with a sinking feeling. He sent a quick glance at Irisdine.
“Ah, t- thank you very much!”
Katia exclaimed as she rushed over to Theodore, grasping his right hand with both hands.
“…Geh!”
“I heard that Theodore-san was the one who saved me from the BETA! It’s thanks to Theodore-san that I am alive now…!”
Theodore felt like someone had squeezed his heart. –The one who was allowed to gently hold his hand, no longer existed. –Only that person was allowed to do so!
“Don’t touch me!”
“Ah…!”
Theodore yanked his hand away from her.
After a moment, Katia stepped back in shock, and the light in her eyes dulled. She bowed her head in apology.
“Ah, I’m… I’m sorry…”
“…”
“But, I was just so anxious to thank you…”
Theodore looked away as he tried not to click his tongue. He still felt the pain with every beat of his heart.
Taking a deep breath, Theodore looked around for something to cover up his actions.
“Hey, do you plan to thank everybody who rescues you on the battlefield in this way?”
Hearing him say those words, Katia’s face grew animated again. She replied in a passionate voice.
“Yes! As it was my life that was saved, it is only natural that I should say thanks!”
Feeling a headache growing, Theodore pulled up a nearby chair.
Gretel shot him a look, as if to say “See what I mean?” Theodore could only nod in silent agreement.
“Just now, I was about to give her an explanation about our squadron.”
Irisdine cut in, as if nothing had happened.
“Comrade Kapitän! Information about our company would clearly be classified military intelligence!”
Gretel immediately exploded. Irisdine replied in a conciliatory tone.
“I’m only going to speak of things that are covered on the TV and newspapers.”
“…Tch”
“The 666th TSF Squadron, they should have heard of us in the West as well— Isn’t that right, Unterleutnant Waldheim?”
Katia nodded quietly as she sat back down on the bed.
“Yes, I’ve heard of you. Using the MiG-21, the strongest TSF squadron in the NPA, having killed more BETA than any other unit in the whole of Europe…”
Irisdine smiled. She glanced at Gretel and Theodore, cocking an eyebrow at them.
(…Huh?! You’re going to raise the question…?)
“By the way, Wal—"
“Erm, excuse me! I would like to ask a favor of everyone!”
Katia suddenly raised her voice, cutting Irisdine off in mid-speech.
Although Irisdine was momentarily speechless, she gave a gentle reply.
“Please feel free to ask. The Unterleutnant is our guest. As long as you are on this base, we will do our best to make you comfortable.”
“Erm, I know this request may sound extremely unreasonable, but…”
Katia took a deep breath.
“P- please let me join your Squadron...!”
“…!!”
Theodore couldn’t believe his ears. His mind refused to understand. What Katia just said, was totally beyond his imagination.
The other two were the same as well. Gretel stood with an open mouth, and Irisdine had an expression of disbelief.
Not noticing the expressions of the three, Katia continued to pour out her heart.
“I’ll do maintenance or anything you want! If you give me a TSF I’ll fight the BETA! So please, I’m begging you…!”
“Comrade Kapitän! Just what did you say to this kid when I wasn’t around?!”
Gretel shouted furiously.
“Are you mocking me, the Commissar?! What is with this kid’s words…?!”
“…This girl is speaking on her own. You can check the tape recorder later to confirm it if you want.”
Irisdine shook her head. Judging by her perplexed expression, it didn’t seem to be an act.
(What is going on…?)
Theodore thought, as his head spun.
(What is this person saying? We haven’t even asked the question yet right?)
“...Could you let us hear the reason?”
Irisdine asked her, giving Katia an intent look.
“What you just said has a significant meaning. Why would you abandon the country you were protecting and the comrades you fought with, in order to join us? You mustn’t say that without thinking it through.”
Katia was silent for a moment, and then she replied, wearing a smile that was warm and gentle.
“I’ve wanted to know more about the other Germany for a long time, what kind of place it is, what kind of people live there… I always wanted to visit it someday. To make friends in East Germany if I could…”
“…”
“A- actually, to be honest I was bullied as well when I was in West Germany… Ahahaha…”
Theodore’s face grew strained as feelings that were incomprehensibly uncomfortable welled up in him.
(This damned country, what can be attractive about it…?)
“…Comrade Oberleutnant. What do you think?”
“Do you truly believe in this person who would defect for such a thoughtless reason?!”
“Whatever her motive is, it’s a fact that we are short of manpower. Thus this is an offer we cannot refuse. So far I have thought it necessary to close one eye on the minor details, in order for the main purpose to be accomplished. Or could it be that you are not confident in your ability to provide political guidance, Comrade Oberleutnant?”
“Tch…!”
Wearing a thoughtful expression, Gretel reminded silent for a few seconds—it seems like she was trying to convince herself.
“…I understand, Comrade Kapitän. Humph, as expected of a selfish capitalist. Very well, let us take advantage of her offer.”
Gretel turned to Katia to confirm her resolution.
“Let us confirm this then. Unterleutnant Waldheim, do you wish to defect to the German Democratic Republic? Do you swear allegiance to our Fatherland, the party and the army?”
“…!”
“The moment I accept your defection, you will become a GDR citizen temporary under my care and responsibility, and you will be under the command of this squadron. However your rights as a citizen of West Germany will be immediately revoked. Furthermore, as an officer it would not be unreasonable for you to be shot dead, should you be caught trying to escape. If you are found to be a spy by others around you, you can also be executed. Naturally, we still have our doubts about you. You will need to show constant effort in order to gain our trust. Do you agree to that?”
Katia stiffened up, feeling the pressure from the word “Defection”. Although she hesitated for a moment, Katia replied in a loud and clear voice, as if to challenge something.
“Yes, that’s correct. I, Katia Waldheim, request to defect.”
Hearing that, Theodore felt as if he had lost touch with reality. Despite the unexpected development, the end result was as Irisdine desired, with the addition of this pilot into their ranks. And so quickly as well—
(Even if it wasn’t a sure thing, for Irisdine’s guess to be so accurate…)
Theodore turned his gaze to Katia. She must have hardened her resolution fully to make that decision, he thought. Grasping hold of the sheets tightly, she stared at the floor, awaiting the response.
“Unterleutnant Katia Waldheim, as of now you are a reserve personnel of the 666th Tactical Surface Fighter Squadron, Schwarzmarken. Welcome onboard.”
Irisdine held out her right hand. Realizing the meaning, Katia grasp it tightly with a smile across her face.
“Yesu~! Thank you very much!”
“In our squadron, we are always short of pilots. Therefore I would like to assign you as a pilot. Is that acceptable?”
“Yes! I will do my best to work hard!”
“An excellent reply.”
Irisdine gave a maternal smile. Theodore thought that it was another act though.
“Comrade Oberleutnant, although this is sudden, could you complete all the necessary official procedures by tomorrow? Under the present state of alert, it wouldn’t be surprising if we were ordered to sortie at anytime.”
“I’ll make the arrangements. Under my authority, her defection and temporary incorporation into the squadron can be accepted immediately at least.”
Gretel wearily lowered her shoulders as she resigned herself.
“Usually the official acceptance of defection and admission into the squadron would take about one month to be processed, but I will negotiate with the Department of Personnel Management at political headquarters to have it completed within a week. I have a classmate there.”
“Many thanks.”
“Humph, Fighting the BETA isn’t the only job a Commissar has.”
“E-Excusu~ me! There was one more thing I wanted to ask…”
Katia tried to ask Gretel.
“What, Comrade Unterleutnant?”
Gretel suddenly grabbed Katia’s collar with her right hand.
“Ha, hauu…!”
“You have some nerve to speak to me without permission. Are you aware that I can send you to a forced labor camp at my discretion?”
“Ehh…? But—”
“Comrade Oberleutnant! Stop it, you are being childish!”
Irisdine sharply ordered Gretel to back down.
“She will soon become a comrade-in-arms whom you will have to entrust your life to. Treat her a little more gently. It will take the Unterleutnant some time to become familiar with the hierarchy of our army.”
“…You are too lenient, Comrade Kapitän. It’s sickening sometimes.”
Giving Irisdine a stern glare, Gretel let go of Katia’s collar.
“So, what is it you wish to ask of me, Comrade Unterleutnant?”
After coughing a little, Katia timidly asked her question.
“E-erm… About the fact that I have become a Pilot in the East, will the West be notified…?”
“…As a general rule, we have no obligation to inform them. Therefore it is quite likely that you will be recorded as MIA (Missing in Action) by the Bundeswehr.”
“…”
“Isn’t that good? Like this, you won’t be considered a traitor by the Pilots in the west.”
“I, I understand.”
“Also, you will address me as “Comrade Oberleutnant” from now on. We are going to be working together as comrades, supposedly. I will conduct your political indoctrination together with the transfer procedures.”
With that, Gretel spun on her heel and marched out, her footsteps echoing sharply as she left the sickroom.
“Erm, did I say something to annoy that person…?”
Katia asked Irisdine tearfully. Irisdine gave a sigh before replying.
“That is the Commissar of the squadron. She is responsible for the political guidance and personnel assignments of the squadron’s Pilots.”
“Commissar…”
“In the Bundeswehr, you have a military chaplain who preaches the Christian faith right? I believe that they perform a similar role.”
Getting a mental image of the idea somehow, Katia nodded in understanding.
“Therefore, it cannot be helped that she is more sensitive compared to others in her speech and conduct towards the Pilots. Should political problems occur in the squadron, she will be the one held responsible. The reason she treated you so severely, is because you are from the West, and she doesn’t know to what extent you can be trusted yet. Please understand.”
“Okay…”
“Well then, Unterleutnant Waldheim.”
In order to change the mood, Irisdine spoke with a cheerful tone.
“Let us speak of the future now. Firstly, how do you feel, are you in good health?”
“Yes! Thanks to you, I’m as fit as a fiddle!”
Katia nodded happily. Faced with that pure and sincere smile, Theodore could only feel his mood getting dark.
“In that case, though this is sudden, I would like you to get familiarized with the base, complete the adjustments of your new Fortified Suit, and practice on the simulator.”
“Erm, my Fortified Suit…”
“I’m sorry but that has been confiscated. Since you wished to join us, the Bundeswehr Fortified Suit that you wore is now the property of the NPA.”
“…”
“That being said, half the reason is for the sake of formality. The truth is, the Fortified Suit that you were using, is incompatible with the systems in our army. Understood?”
“Yes, I understand now!”
“I have already left word with the maintenance chief, so you can collect the new suit at the hangar.”
“Understood! Erm, then, about my F-4…”
“Ah, you mean your personal belongings that were in the control unit? No need to worry, I am holding on to it for now. I checked the contents just to be sure, but there wasn’t anything suspicious in it. I’ll return it once things have settled down.”
“Ah, thank you very much~su!”
“Then, for the familiarization of the base, adjustment of the fortified suit, and your duties in the squadron, you will be under the guidance of Unterleutnant Theodore Eberbach.”
“Yes, I understand!”
“W-what did you say!”
Theodore shouted upon hearing that, his eyes wide with surprise.
“I never heard of this! Why should I have to take care of her?!”
“Is that so? The other day, didn’t you say that you will cooperate with me on this?”
“Tch…!”
“Unterleutnant Theodore Eberbach is an outstanding Pilot, with three years of experience in the army. I have a high opinion of him.”
Theodore mouth was open, the mixture of embarrassment and resentment causing blood rush to his head.
“However, as you saw just now, he has a somewhat shy personality. From the fact that he rescued you before, you can tell that he is not a bad person. As he is the youngest in the squadron, you should find him easier to talk to.”
“Is that so?”
Katia gave Theodore a look of respect, and bowed her head slightly.
“I’m sorry that I was impolite just now! Please take care of me from now on, Theodore-san!”
“…Un, understood…”
His blood vessels at the bursting point from fury, Theodore barely managed to squeeze out an answer. Irisdine nodded with a pleased expression.
“Well then, I’ll leave the rest to you, Unterleutnant Eberbach. I have to attend a strategy meeting at headquarters with Walter now, and I won’t be back until late at night. I trust that you will not betray my expectations, right?”
“Tch. I understand…”
“A good response.”
With that, Irisdine lightly patted Theodore on the shoulder, and left the room.
(I have to look after this kid…?)
Glaring at her back with hatred, Theodore clenched both fists tightly.
(…Why, why do I have to do this…!)
Behind him, Katia stared at Theodore’s back, a mixture of expectation and uneasiness showing on her face.
++1500 hours
++The German Democratic Republic
++District of Cottbus, Cottbus military base
Cottbus base was once an old fighter plane airbase used by the Soviets, before it was taken over by the NPA. It was no bigger, and had no better facilities, compared to other bases on the front. Although it was small and surrounded by forest, one of its few defining features would be the 2000m long runway it had.
Theodore was showing Katia around the base as per Irisdine’s orders. Officially, the squadron was a rapid response reserve unit under the direct command of the Eastern Front General Headquarters, with no permanent base. However, this time they had been stationed at Cottbus base for nearly a month now,
“…”
“…”
There was an awkward silence between the two.
At the beginning of the familiarization, Katia would say “The cookhouse of the base is so big~!” and “Oh, there are cats at the base too! Which do you like Theodore-san, cats or dogs?” in one-sided conversations. But as Theodore ignored her completely, she slowly grew silent as well, and for the past thirty minutes, they only spoke when necessary.
(This person, does she even think before she speaks…?)
“Ouch! I-I’m sorry!”
Behind him came a small cry— Katia who was following his back seemed to have bumped into someone. Theodore stopped walking with a click of his tongue. He wasn’t particularly worried about what happened— just that if she were to become a lost child, would things become troublesome.
With uncertain steps, Katia avoided the crowd, and rushed towards Theodore’s back.
“Erm, Theodore-san…”
Katia’s respectful voice—Theodore ignored it, continuing to walk.
“Theodore-san, you seem to be very upset…”
“…”
“I have always been told by others that “you cannot read the atmosphere”, so I don’t get it, as expected…”
“…”
“I, did I do something to make you angry…?”
Theodore let out a sigh.
“It’s nothing, I’m not angry.”
“That’s a lie! Theodore-san is angry! If I have done something wrong, I will apologize! But if you act like that without telling me why, I won’t know what to do…!”
(Damn it, this kid…!)
Swallowing his resentment, Theodore looked at Katia.
“First of all, don’t say my name so familiarly. Call me Eberbach. No need for rank.”
“…B-but, since we are of the same rank, so that we can become friends, isn’t this way better…?”
“Is our relationship close enough that you can call me by name?”
“…Su~…”
“And secondly, don’t treat me like a savior. I was only following orders. On the battlefield, helping someone is just an everyday thing...”
Theodore faltered at the end.
“There is no such thing!”
Katia turned away with a lonely look in her eyes.
“…After all, Theodore-san, you are the first one who risked his life in order to rescue me...”
“…Eberbach.”
“Ah…su~! S-sorry!”
“…Third, don’t bother trying to get close to me.”
“Ehh-su~? Why…?”
“Because I don’t like it.”
“…”
“You can go play the friendship game with the other Pilots. Just leave me out of it.”
“T-that’s no good!”
“...Tch!”
“Th- Eberbach-san, you not only saved my life, but you also have to take care of me now. You're someone that’s important to me! I want to know more about Eberbach-san! If we’re going to fight together, it’s better if we know each other!”
Theodore pressed his lips into a thin line. It was obvious that his blood was boiling all over.
(Saying such things, doesn’t she realize how much it’s tormenting me…?!)
However, the next words out of Katia’s mouth, made Theodore turn pale—.
“I’m a Pilot from the West, and Eberbach-san is a Pilot as well from the East, so if we get to know each other better, we can surely get along well! There is no such thing as East or West when fighting the BETA!”
Theodore stopped breathing—more than that, all the blood drained from his face in an instant.
(What, the hell is she saying…?!)
The next thing he knew, the surrounding air seemed to freeze instantly. The nearby soldiers all froze in their tracks, staring at them coldly. Fear, bewilderment, displeasure… and suspicion, could be seen in their eyes. If there was a Stasi informer amongst them, they would definitely report this. After all, the suspects had just declared themselves to be enemies of the party and the Fatherland—in other words, Prey.
Theodore’s body started to throb with imaginary pain, as if the skin on his body was being frayed off—memories of the interrogation and torture he received three years ago. That time, thanks to someone selling him out, he saw hell.
In the meantime, Katia, who was wearing an expression of innocent confusion, had only just started to sense the hostility around them.
“Ehh…? What’s going on…?”
“Oi, you—“
A harsh voice was heard—from one of the duty officers who worked at the headquarters of the base. Theodore sucked in a breath, and straightaway grabbed hold of Katia’s arm.
“I’m sorry, there’s something a little wrong with her head!”
“W-what’s wrong with my head—?!”
“I’m providing her with proper guidance, so there’s no problem!”
“You bastard, what are you saying…!”
“And so with that, please excuse me!”
“Eh…?!”
Theodore grabbed Katia’s arm, and ran away at full speed. In his panic, he couldn’t think of anything else but to escape.
The next place they headed to was the Hangar—where they would receive the fortified suit.
At the entrance of the hangar, Theodore gasped for air. His heart was beating so hard that he couldn’t even speak.
“Wh…what was that… just now…?”
Sinking to the floor, Katia painfully asked in between breaths.
“Did…did I say… something strange…?”
Beyond the anger, Theodore could only feel shock. What happened just now, was enough to turn the attention of the Stasi towards them. Rumors would spread instantly as well, and Gretel would be sure to hear of it. Theodore felt as if he were rapidly driven into a corner—.
“Erm, Eberbach-san…?”
Katia anxiously asked Theodore, who had fallen silent even after he had caught his breath. He took several more deep breaths to calm himself, as the urge to slap her face grew.
“There is one more thing that you should know…”
He told her, as his stomach roiled with anger.
“Never, ever say such things again…”
“N-no matter what?”
“...Never.”
“…Is that such a bad thing, for me to make friends with Eberbach-san, and for the people in the East and West to get along, in order to fight the BETA?!”
“…Tch! What did I say about saying such things…!”
“I don’t get it! Please tell me why!”
“…That’s enough.”
Theodore let out a deep sigh.
He had not given up on persuading Katia. It was just that this wasn’t a good place to continue that dangerous conversation. There might be hidden listening devices in the hangar, and among the mechanics there would definitely be someone who reports to the Stasi.
“Anyway, let’s talk about this later. You have to get familiarized with the MiG-21 by the end of today, understood?”
Katia reluctantly nodded her head.
“Then follow me. And be silent, okay?”
Theodore ordered, and started looking around the hangar for the maintenance chief.
Inside the fortified suit storage locker room that was in the hangar, Katia put on the East German fortified suit she just received, and stood in front of the mirror, looking herself over as she turned this way and that.
“It certainly is the same type as the West…The only difference is in the color…”
Katia spun delightedly in front of the mirror.
“The size is also a perfect fit for me!”
(It was taken and altered from the spares of dead Pilots you know…)
Theodore thought, as he coldly watched the figure of Katia, who seemed to be happy for some reason.
As proof of that, countless repair marks could be seen on the suit that had been given to Katia. No matter how you look at it, it definitely wasn’t something that was newly ordered.
“Then, try out another one. It would be awkward if you don’t have a spare when this one starts to stink because you peed yourself.”
“W-when I peed myself…?!”
“Yup, I heard about your first battle…”
Katia tearfully went back into the locker room, her face glowing bright red. Theodore let out a small sigh.
“…That’s a rather peculiar girl you got there, Son.”
A loud brassy voice rang out from nearby.
“I heard about it indirectly from the company commander, but I never would have thought she would come.”
Turning his head, Theodore saw a man past his middle-age standing there in oil stained coveralls. Even though he was over sixty years of age, his still had an aura of vitality bursting from his body.
Oberleutnant Otto Strauss, the maintenance chief of the 666th TSF squadron. One of the squadron’s veterans, he was the man who lead the maintenance team, a huge family with more than two hundred members. It seemed that he had been an associate of Irisdine from back when the squadron took part in the rearguard action at Poland. His trademark was a black eye-patch worn over the right eye, which was lost during a maintenance accident.
“I feel the same way, Chief.”
Theodore nodded without reserve. Otto was one of the few people in the squadron that he felt he could place his trust in. He had no interest in political matters. As someone who had gone through the final years of World War Two as a mechanic, he was known as the Veteran among veterans. Back when TSFs were first being introduced, the NPA had sent him to the Soviets to be trained in TSF matters, and there wasn’t anyone who could come close to his level of skill in this field. Thus, it wasn’t strange to hear him call Walter “Son” as well.
“Well, it’s a Pilot that the commander picked up. In that case, she should have some skills in handling the machines… To the maintenance crew, you are one and all Germans.”
Otto was referring to the foreign mechanics in the team, most of whom were soldiers Irisdine had “picked up” in Poland. “In order to prevent the annihilation of the squadron, even if they are foreign soldiers, I will still use them”, was the rational Irisdine had given as the commander, Theodore heard.
“Oi, Son, I guess you got asked to take care of the little lady?”
Otto stated, as if he had read Theodore’s mind.
“One shouldn’t overdo it too much.”
He gave Theodore a sharp look with his remaining left eye.
“When the TSF gets damaged, we will definitely repair it in time for the next sortie, no matter how many overnighters we have to pull. However, we can’t do anything if a Pilot pushes themselves over the limit.”
“What do you mean by that…?”
Theodore wondered if it was about Inghild—now that he thought of that, he didn’t really want to talk about it.
However, what Otto said was outside his expectations.
“Although that girl is being calm in front, she is actually forcing herself. Even if she seems foolishly cheerful, that little lady is pushing it. After all, this would be a foreign place to her.”
Even though he couldn’t stop the animosity he felt, Theodore respected the opinion of the remarkable maintenance chief, so he swallowed his feelings.
(This is actually at her own wish…)
“Well, take care then. Man and Machine, something will definitely go wrong if they are pushed too hard. When it happens, the one who suffers may not only be themselves.”
With that final sentence, Otto went back to the TSF’s gantry block.
Taking his place was Katia in her fortified suit, who had just exited the locker room, looking as happy as always.
“I put on the second one su~!”
“…”
“Although the size is slightly different from the one just now, this one fits perfectly as well, see!”
“Did you check to make sure that the urination pack is functioning properly?”
“A-about that… Hey! Why are you bringing up that topic?!”
“Because you are a kid who wets herself.”
“…Eberbach-san is surprisingly cruel…”
Looking like she was about to cry, Katia tearfully pulled herself together and started to check the fortified suit. Confirmation of the inspection items was done using the retinal projection system.
(The one who is being unreasonably overworked is me.)
Thinking of what the future held, Theodore’s mood turned dark.
“Eberbach-san! Inspection of the second fortified suit is complete! There isn’t any problem!”
Katia reported with a smile. It was as if she had totally forgotten that they had a serious argument just before.
“Will I be training on the simulator next?”
“…Yeah. But first, you need to learn about the MiG-21.”
“Understood! I always wanted to check out the MiG-21! I love the way it looks so strong and stylish!”
Forcing down his uneasy feelings, Theodore lead the way for Katia, who had an expression of intense anticipation over her face.
(Anyway, she will keep silent if Irisdine gives the order… For now, the one with a firm grip around my throat, is this girl…)
++1900 hours
++The German Democratic Republic
++Cottbus district, Cottbus military base
The passageway leading from the simulator room to the hangar was deserted.
“So tired desu~… I’m starving…”
Katia, who had just completed the basic training for the operation of the MiG-21, tottered weakly after Theodore.
“I didn’t think, that the flight characteristics of the MiG-21 Balalaika, would be so different from the F-4 Phantom…”
Katia muttered to herself as she let out a heavy sigh.
“And, even though the mobility is increased, the defence parameter was lowered… I’m not sure if that is a good thing…”
Ignoring Katia’s prattle, Theodore walked on, feeling disgusted.
(This person is only ‘borderline’ okay…)
To Theodore, although Katia’s piloting skill was adequate for an Eishi with only a year of training and some combat experience, compared to the Eishis of the 666th TSF squadron, she was still terribly inexperienced. Although she could manage basic movement, her skill in performing precision shooting while using the jump units in three-dimensional combat maneuvers is below average. As for melee combat, other than knowing the technique of removing the tank-class with a knife, she didn’t even have any decent CQC training. (However, this person was able to control the MiG-21 in only three hours…)
Usually, it would take at least one day of training to convert from the F-4 to the MiG-21. As Katia herself had said, there was a considerable difference in the handling characteristics between the machines, and it took time to get used to them.
Of course, with that difference, even if Katia’s skill wasn’t praiseworthy—to have grasped the correct method to pilot it properly, it could only have been by intuition, Theodore thought.
(She may get remarkably skilled if trained properly…)
Although piloting skills can somehow be handled through hard work and guts, there is no way to replace intuition. Even though there is the Feedback System in TSFs to aid Eishis with the piloting, it is of limited help, and in the end one can only count on one’s intuition.
(Once she grows up, will we end up sacrificing her…)
“Uh, hey, Eberbach-san…”
Katia asked Theodore with an anxious look.
“…What?”
“Erm, about my prospects as a Pilot, do I have any hope…?”
“…Haa…”
“That sigh, is it because you think that I don’t have any promise as a Pilot…?”
Although he was partly disgusted, Theodore made a thoughtful face.
“…Not much.”
“Haa… A-as I thought…”
Genuinely shocked, Katia hung her her in depression.
“Everyone in the West told me the same thing as well…”
(It’s not a good idea to give her too much confidence now…)
Theodore thought, taking a little bit of revenge on Katia to ease his mood.
Theodore had planned to return the fortified suit to the maintenance crew followed by dinner together at the mess to end the day’s schedule. They were expected to participate in the salvage mission the next day. In order to prepare for that, he had wanted them to have a early night…
At least that was the plan—until, in the hangar, he crossed paths with a certain Eishi.
“Fick…”
Theodore swore the moment he made eye contact with that Eishi, even as he refrained from clicking his tongue.
“What’s the matter…?”
“It has nothing to do with you. Be quiet…”
As he and Katia exchanged whispers, that Eishi—Anett, walked over until she stood in front of Theodore, blocking his path. There was nothing but hatred showing in the pupils of her black-ringed eyes.
“…What do you want.”
Looking away, Anett answered Theodore with a hate filled voice.
“Nothing in particular. I only came to take care of Inghild’s personal belongings—“
She had been sorting out the items left in the locker in the Eishi’s waiting room—Inghild’s meager possessions had been packed into a cloth bag.
“It will be sent back home to her family, together with a letter.”
“…I see. It must have been hard on you.”
Anett suddenly grabbed hold of Theodore’s collar.
“You… What do you understand! You abandoned Inghild!”
“…”
“We were supposed to be comrades! We were supposed to be classmates! Why... why didn’t you save her!”
Anett squeezed Theodore’s collar with all her might—
“That girl always told me, that even though you look stubborn at first sight, you are actually a kind person!”
“...”
“She would always be concerned about those who are worst off! However, because she felt that she couldn’t do anything for them, she was so sad…! You left such a gentle child to die!”
“…How would I know…”
The words came out before Theodore could consider them.
“Don’t look away from your own responsibility. If you were a little stronger, she wouldn’t have had to die!”
“I KNOW…! I KNOW THAT!”
Anett wailed, clutching her chest with her right hand.
“That is why I am doing this, with my own hands…! This is… the only thing I can do—“
After saying that, Anett’s eyes went round. She finally noticed the girl wearing a fortified suit beside Theodore.
Overwhelmed by the strange tension between the two, Katia had been staring at Anett frightfully as she hid behind Theodore.
“This child… a replacement?”
Theodore nodded in resignation.
“She’s originally from the West.”
“Don’t tell me, she’s the one you saved…”
“That’s correct.”
“…”
A different anger flared up in the pupils of Anett’s eyes.
“…So you plan to use this child as your shield before you sacrifice her as well?”
“What…Who will!”
That intention—it wasn’t as if Theodore hadn’t thought about it. In fact, he had said the very same thing to Gretel before, and even though he now recognized Katia’s latent talent, that was still a viable option.
Perceiving Theodore’s true thoughts from his facial expression, Anett’s face grew even more furious.
“You, how many of our comrades do you wish to sacrifice for your own sake?! In that case, I will never forgive you…!”
“…Do as you like.”
After several silent seconds, Anett approached Katia, ignoring Theodore.
“…I’m sorry for shouting so suddenly.”
Though she was still afraid, Katia asked in a frighten voice.
“Um, are you, also in the 666th TSF squadron…?”
“That’s right. I'm Unterleutnant Anett Hosenfeld. I’ve been on a little break these days…”
Anett gave a bitter smile.
“I’ll be back before long, and then…”
Extending a trembling hand, Anett gently stroked Katia’s chestnut-brown hair.
“This time, I will protect you.”
“Eh, yes…”
Theodore wanted to spit. He could guess why Anett would say such a thing—that by protecting Katia, she was trying to atone for what happened to Inghild. In that way, she could start to heal the wound that was in her heart—
(Even you are making use of someone isn’t it…)
Just when he was able to open his mouth to retort back, Theodore noticed three figures approaching them, and held back with a click of this tongue.
Pham, Sylvia and Gretel—the three who approached were Eishis of the 666th TSF squadron as well. Pham and Sylvia were still in their fortified suits, while Gretel wore the standard BDU (Battle Dress Uniform)—however, although Gretel had an impassive look on her face, she seemed to be anything but calm inside.
(I knew that this would happen…)
Theodore bitterly faced reality. There was no way that Gretel wouldn’t hear about what happened during the day.
Anett tensed up as well. Sylvia was a target for hatred too, being the one who said Inghild had died “a worthless death”.
The first one to open her mouth was Pham.
“Theodore-kun, this is the girl?”
Sylvia frowned, and Gretel’s expression grew more severe—pretending not to notice, Pham continued to speak in her usual bantering manner.
“Yes she is. And could you please stop calling me in that way.”
“Onee-san is lonely if you say that you know? I think of you as my cute Otouto after all.”
“I think not.”
“Anett-chan too, if both of you can call me “Pham-nee”, Onee-san will be so happy…”
“I will never call you that.”
Theodore declared tiredly. Acting like an “Onee-san” was Pham’s usual behavior. It came from being the eldest sister to six younger brothers in her family. Nearly all of the Vietnamese immigrants into the GDR are made up of large extensive families.
“Anyway, why are you still wearing the fortified suits?”
“The maintenance leaders called us all to help with the tuning of the machines.”
“…”
“The commander told me some of the situation. Unterleutnant Katia Waldheim… may I call you Katia-chan?”
“Y-yes…!”
Katia shrunk in on herself as she answered. Since the number of new people she met today increased, she might have gotten confused.
“I am Oberleutnant Pham Thi Lan, the 2IC (second in command) of the 666th TSF squadron. Even though my skin color is like this, I was born in East Germany, being a second generation Vietnamese. Good to meet you, Katia-chan.”
“Y-yes! Good to meet you as well!”
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