MuvLuv Alternative Schwarzesmarken:Volume 1 Chapter2

Progress: 43/110 pages done --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

File:Chp2-01.jpg

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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.

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