Disclaimer: The names of places stated here isn't exactly on Pangasinan.

Warning: Slurs can be seen here. But it was placed in order to keep up with the era the characters were in, and the same goes to the chapters that will follow.

P.S: I just used google translate on the romaji dialogues there.

Chapter 16: Sakura Mitsutsuki

Unintelligible bursts of static hummed throughout the reins of Kousaka's stern. Surrounded by her staff, she listened to what the elites may relay from the front. Seconds ticked with anticipation on an all-time high, its headset's cup firmly glued to her ear. Sonoda stood close behind with an eye shimmering from its faded light, also at edge like the firebrand dressed in brown. Pressing against the operator's shoulder, desperate for an answer; the man twisted a set of knobs, which the machine replied with some high pitched cracks.

"Come on, please respond . . ."

Her pupils widened as she spoke, brows filled with sultry beads which cascaded by those supple cheeks. Then after minutes spent hanging on the air, a faint transmission was relayed by a high ranking teishin which made the audience sigh in relief.

"This is Captain Nogami of Takao kuteitai. All communication lines leading to the American front were already cut. Commonwealth forces are in disarray, and left in the dark. We are now awaiting orders to harass their rear while they're busy building up for your arrival, ma'am."

"Well done, Captain! But I order your men to stand down." The commander spared a glance to her green drabbed friend, "Your task is to sabotage the enemy's supplies and communications. The last part's reserved for the rikusentai."

A cough was heard from the paratrooper after the unit's name was sung, knowing that the boys in crossed anchors were more than eager to have their hands soaked in red.

"Hai . . . As you wish, Taisho. Nogami out."

With the conversation already done, satisfied by the operation's success; Honoka returned the piece to the man in charge and faced the gargoyle who kept a jowl on its scarred mug. Noticing the concern drawn within those orbs, Umi loosened her stance; replacing the sullen gloom with a lopsided smile.

"A detachment of commonwealth troops were spotted near the hamlet of Banga, and my men are already en route as we speak."

Polite and composed as she may seem, the carrot topped maiden saw through her façade of a meek little lamb; which in reality was that of a soulless subordinate who values duty over compassion, and death rather than the shame of defeat. It was the code every rikusentai practiced by heart, with surrender never an option even if faced with overwhelming odds.

Unable to give a decent response due to the cruel reputation of Sonoda's corps, she averted gaze; muttering some words before walking out.

"I have very high expectations for your men, Umi."

The blue locked slasher could only nod, while the rest looked at each other with tension set upon their lens.

Braving the harsh monsoon winds, a trio of Kawanishis lumbered with a tail of vapor on its wake. It was a monster of a craft, boasting a wingspan of more than a hundred feet with a fuselage to match. Powered by four large engines perched on its back, it soared above the skyline like a wounded duck. The plane was a product of the idea that flying boats were the future of how wars should be fought, free from the shackle of airfields which were far from contested horizons. The awkward profile of an upturned banana with a keel and pontoons on each wing may raise a lot of brows, but the Type 37 H6K proved to be a very capable craft of its type; able to reach the horse shoe framed wake from its base in the empire of Japan and back.

Within its gargantuan hold, fifty raiders faced each other; lightly armed with only bayonets, swords, pistols, and knives. Their heavy weapons were kept in a cylinder to be dropped later by a modified g4m, and they would be nothing more than a mob of very angry men until then.

They are a company of Yokosuka's finest, the first of three paratroop battalions within the corps. Formerly assigned in the meat grinder known throughout the world as the Chinese front, their years of experience made them a very valuable asset too costly to just deploy here and there.

But Umi saw the importance of disrupting the buildup of American troops around Lingayen; and with the teishins already in place, it's up for her airborne troops to sow fear and discontent directly onto the opposition's rank and file.
Sensing that the hour of their dive crept even closer in every tick, the captain stepped out of the line to brief them before the lights go green. With gunto bared, he relayed the commander's orders; orbs flared with righteous zeal.

"Horyo wa hi-tori mo inai." (Take no prisoners.)

With the craft fast approaching the bone dry fields of Banga, the raiders clipped the release lines onto the bar that ran between their heads; eyes glaring into the void, senses fuelled with adrenaline and excitement spurred by a wondrous tablet synthesized within the dreaded walls of Harbin.

Methamphetamine was a common sight on a grunt's field kit, and the substance started life as something that could help workers carry on with their intense shifts without the need of sleep or the consumption of a meal. Marketed within the empire under the name "philopon", it also had contemporaries on nations allied or not. The armies of the Reich have an abundant supply of "pervitin", while the Americans has it encased on a tube of five with "benadril" taped on its vessel. Different names but with the same effect, it awakened and enhanced the combatant's will to kill paired with vigor that matched a panther's own. But there was no other nation that embraced it with such empire building fervor, paired with very violent tendencies which put every other combatant to shame.

Then the time came for them to disembark. Leaping from its hull, the intrepid souls braced themselves as the wire snapped to yield a canopy of the purest white. The craft zoomed through with a trail of blossoms in the advent of spring, a deadly bloom indoctrinated, fanatical, and high from a ration of drugs.

In the edge of a pond surrounded by the lushest blanket of leaves, Maki sat all worried and blue. She was tired from a day's worth of transit, her group only a few kilometres away from Banga; a rural village situated in the southern regions of Pangasinan.

The lass was clothed in full battle gear; complete with a canvas bandolier and a wide brimmed helm both in faded greens, armed with the antiquated yet fairly abundant m1903. A bolo half a meter in length hung sheathed on its leather belt, while a pair of leather pouches were neatly placed on each of her waist.

Leaning in to see her portrait on its murk, she frowned and lay on its grass strewn bank. The skies above was as clear as glass, while the stars shone defiantly against a faint band of white.

The area was secluded, a waterhole where buffaloes spent an entire morning wallowing about. Fireflies gently spiraled on the trees around the disparaged lass with silence keeping her heart at bay. The child could only marvel at the scene of utmost serenity, having been locked on an island where yells and boot camp bustles were as common as the air she breathed. Huddling the rifle close to her chest, the redheaded marine hummed together with the blades of grass that swayed gently from the wind's gentle lullaby.

"Maybe I shouldn't worry too much."

Loosening the bandolier which carried a batch of extra clips, Maki tipped her visor to conceal those lilacs on the verge of rest.

It's been a while since I've laid on someplace serene as this. More like years, back when mum was still there to tell me stories.

"Maki?" A familiar called out and the sergeant rolled to confirm who it was, only to see the blonde haired vixen standing a pace off her crown. Unlike the heavier load out carried by the basic grunt, Ayase's gear was only composed by a sling, a pouch that had some spare magazines for the colt m1911, and a pitched whistle on a maroon lanyard. The difference between the ranks were also evident on the footwear they used; with the gal's ankle boot encased in a gaiter made of tanned leather, instead of the orphan's buttoned canvas.

"Oh. . ." She then returned to watch the wonders of night, "how did you even know I was here the whole time?"

Sitting next to the ill-mannered China girl, Eli removed the burdensome brodie and the ribbon which restrained those glorious locks; leaving it to flow like a veil of tarnished brass.

"Does it even matter if you were to know?"

"Okay, fine."

The slanty eyed damsel then tried to catch some sleep, while the lieutenant took the well maintained firearm and cocked its bolt. Ticked by the peer's unwarranted curiosity, she snatched the piece off her hands and snarled:

"Hey, hands off! This is not something you should toy with!"

The Lieutenant brushed her bangs aside and chuckled, much to the subordinate's utter disappointment.

"Calm down granny, I know what i'm doing."

Placing it on the side that she can't reach without a struggle, the halfblooded immigrant resumed her shot at relaxation; this time on the lookout for the Russian who whistled like nothing happened.

I don't know why I'm always tense whenever this mountain girl is around, it's like as if she was born just to bug me!

Moments withered while they stole glances at each other, an awkward game of cat and mouse where the goal was unclear; but participants duly submit. Scanning through the entirety of the naiveté, Maki squinted those slanted orbs of hers and withdrew the moment vivid blues rolled to examine what's up.

Eli you dumbass. . . Quit playing games with me!

More precious time was wasted by their little standoff, and Ayase proceeded to lie down as she too was exhausted from the hasty scramble for the frontlines. Relieved, Maki lets out a subtle curve.

Finally.

Yet her lens refused to peel from the vixen's shapely form, amethysts gleaming from the sight of a face caressed affectionately by the moon's faded beams. It was as though she'd want to reach out and cup those scrumptious cheeks, but the China gal shuddered from the thought of having an affair with someone from the same sex.

I shouldn't . . . Eli's a girl, I can't . . . No-no, no,no,no!

On the other hand, Elizaveta observed that there was something amiss with the usually aloof peer; knocking thrice on her helm which snapped the firebrand off such questionable choices. Staring straight into the orbs of the flustered orphan, she giggled at how it shook from the sight of ice ridden blues.

"Care to share what's up, Maki?"

Learning that her superior read such quaint mannerisms, the sergeant looked away with a pout.

"It's none of your business."

"Come on now. I know you," The exile turned and ran a swirl through her undersized chest, "there has to be something bothering you at this point in time."

Feeling rather ticklish, Nishikino flicked the digit away from her bust and groaned,

"Stop acting like a kid, will ya?"

Even though offended by the girl's rebuttal, the blonde kept her cool and diverted at the gems sparkling above their war torn world.

"It's bad not to tell your problems to a friend, you know. At least when you do so, you'll feel much lighter soon after."

Realizing the hurtful words sung out of whim, the maiden with strawberry strands pursed to reflect upon it.

"Eli . . . Look, I'm sorry for what I said to you earlier."

"It's alright." The Russian smiled, "It's my fault for letting words get the best of me."

Serenity returned on their midst, with interests glued towards the shimmering wonders nestled beyond the clouds. In a bid to make up for her deed, Maki initiated with a confession disguised as an innocent question.

"Say. . . I was wondering"

"Hmm?" The latter tilted to listen.

"Had you ever been in love with a guy?"

The lieutenant raised those gold laced brows from such trivial inquiry, while the interrogator stared stoically to hide her embarrassment. After a few seconds spent on hot water, Elizabeth shrugged,

"Yes, of course. All of us had experienced those kind of feelings, and I bet you did too."

"Uh-huh . . ." She sheepishly grinned, "yes . . . Yes, true."

Not really, I didn't have any inkling to be involved in a relationship. It's just a waste of time honestly. . . And gross too! Ugh!

"Oh Maki," the fox sifted through her sun kissed locks, "The boy I loved happened to be son of a tenant who worked on the fields with my father."

Hearing this, she tried to pry every morsel of information about this lass; a character who was only introduced shortly after returning from the chaotic islands of Mindanao.

"So, who's the lucky guy?"

"It's a secret, But I tell you this . . ." The maiden reminisced with sheer delight, "We enlisted in the same date and now he's a senior officer in the 42nd division."

"42nd I.D? I heard those guys are all holed up in Bataan."

"Yep, and so are the majority of our forces."

"But does he write to you often?"

"He used to, but not anymore."

Eli's sunny disposition soon faded when worry started to manifest upon her mask. Seizing the opportunity to ask what she had in mind, Sgt. Nishikino scratched and jokingly inquired,

"But what if it's a girl who confesses that she likes you?"

Surprised, it was the Russian's turn to blush; rebuking the redhead's concept with an outright rejection fuelled by her upbringing as a child who strongly adhered to his father's conservative guidance.

"I'll have to apologize to her. I cannot entertain such feelings reserved only for a man."
With hopes dashed to the gutters, the subordinate felt weak but tried to preserve their friendship by acting like it was someone else's idea.

"I know right?" An awkward burst of cackles emanated from the devastated lass, "I guess she'll just have to accept that the gal's got the need for something other than just the tongue to spice things up!"

"Maki?" Eli sat to confront the redfaced grunt, "what are you talking about? Simply said, that kind of relationship is taboo!"

"Sorry about that, I was just stating my opinion for this matter."

A bustle was soon heard on the bushes nearby. Sensing trouble, the quick witted aide slung the aged rifle, took all the other equipment and grabbed Ayase by the arm to scurry behind some bushes.

A figure trudged past with what appeared to be a rug clipped on his arm. It was a man with a skin tone much darker than the usual Filipino, his uniform being the same standard light brown drab used by both the USAFFE's marines and Philippine scouts.

"Who's that?" Ayase squirmed, while the lass' eyes widened when she recognized the distinct headdress worn by this straggler; a triangular piece of cloth which had the same hue as the coat he wore, shaped like a crown.

"He's a Moro." Scanning further, another dead giveaway presented itself, a broad leaf shaped knife which is known in the southern lands as the barung.

The Russian on the other hand was perplexed by this soldier's regalia, but for the redhead who once encountered the tribe that carried such a loathsome blade; it was yet another link to a past she's unwilling to rewind.

"Maki?"

"Shh." The sergeant then took the time to observe this peculiar footman who unrolled the ornately decorated mat at the pond's edge.

"Why?"

"The man's a tausug." Her face soon appeared grim, "We shouldn't be anywhere near this guy."

The Tausug is one of many tribes who inhabit the region of Mindanao; a predominantly Muslim landmass found in the nation's southern frontier. Hailing mostly from the beautiful archipelago of Sulu, they are characterized as fierce warriors who would never back down from a fight; unlike the well-received Maranaos who were stereotyped as peace loving, yet very clever merchants. It is also from this group where the most oath sworn berserkers known as juramentados spawned, die hard islamists who fought with their iconic broad leaf bladed barung knives during the intrusion of archaic Spain and the more technologically advanced Americans; never stopping from their murderous rampage until expunged by a hail of shots. In the end, even if their bravery either garnered respect or hard spat gloats from countless veterans; the sultanate of Sulu was subjugated, and its people subject to foreign authority except for some who dared to go on with the old ways. Both revered and feared by the Commonwealth, some of them were recruited into its ranks with the most exceptional assigned to the Philippine Division's 45th Division; in the hallowed cadre of the Far East's elite.

Unable to understand where her friend's anonymity towards this man came from, the lieutenant furrowed her brows and retorts,

"But he's one of ours. He even has the golden buffalo patch on his shoulder. . . A dignified scout who serves our land with such honor and distinction! I don't understand why you act like he's some kind of enemy we cannot trust!"

"Listen up, mountain girl." She narrowed those slanted slits to prove a point, "it's very easy for you to say because you haven't spent a year in the jungle infested frontier! These men cannot be trusted and are more than eager to stab you in the back once they felt like it!"

"I can't believe that you're too darn paranoid over stuff. Even if it's only now that I encountered a Moro, I believe that like us, not all of them are as bad as you were led to believe!" Eli then pointed to the guy who knelt while mumbling a prayer on a language she had never heard before. "Look! He's a Philippine scout! The cream of the crop! Better paid than regulars and marines like us!"

Meanwhile, the intruder kept on with his mantras; never minding the lioness and the hot headed fox who kept on with their petty, yet routine quarrel. A few seconds passed when they realized that their eyes seemed to tire from the arduous transit from Manila, and Maki the impertinent instigator decided to call it quits; hushing the blonde with a hand pressed firmly on her lips.

"Wait," Taking a peek over its mossy hide, she squinted towards the spot where the prayer rug was placed; only to find it already gone, with its outline embedded on its leaf ridden floor.

"Looks like he's gone for good."

Shaking loose from the firebrand's palm, Eli followed suit and remarked,

"Seems like we've scared him off."

A brief pause took its pace soonafter, until the exile lets loose of a very loud yawn.

"I'm tired . . ." Eli precariously fluttered those lovely pair of lids, further mesmerizing the red haired orphan whose amethysts became glued to such a sight. Having noticed the way she stared, the lieutenant nudged an elbow which hoisted her back from infatuation's deceptive spell.

"Maki? Why are you staring at me like that?"

Caught off guard, the sergeant glanced away and shrugged,

"Nothing."

Still suspicious of the orphan's intent, she leaned and narrowed those faded cyans against a couple of violets which rolled away from guilt.

"Can't you just be honest with me for once, Maki? Something's up with you, so spill it."

Afraid of being confronted by an irritated peer, the latter immediately stood up and feverishly tightened her helm's leather strap.

"Let's just call this a day, shall we?"

With head lifted to mask her embarrassment, Nishikino slipped on her rucksack and walked away; leaving the blonde to follow with questions left unanswered.

"Maki! Stop being too secretive about stuff!"

"It's none of your business, mountain girl!" She vexed, all focused on a trail dimly lit by what little light had seeped through the forest's smothering veil. The trees around them were very much alive, its majestic branches shaken by a gust of ill wind. Cicadas kept playing its ear piercing tune, echoing through with a ring which made their hairs stand on end. Leaving their little disagreement behind, Elizaveta immediately clung like a limpet on the redhead's arm; an act which exposed a much softer side on the immigrant who relented and replied in kind.

This is just the beginning of our little journey, Eli. And I hope we could make it till the end.

The rifle cluttered as they tread with deft steps, guises whited out by fear amplified by an insect's throbbing melody. Maintaining silence, afraid of the dark; the commonwealth duo scanned for anything that might scare the living daylights out of them as an ominous feeling was doubled by the random sounds of night. And when everything seemed to feel downright awry, fire bugs flickered in vibrant green; lighting up a path which snaked through a smothering maze of gnarled roots, causing them to lower their guard and marvel at nature's neon lights.

"Eli, are you seeing this?"

Holstering the blued colt, the Lieutenant could just nod as she became affixed from such a marvelous sight. Seeing that her superior was silenced, Maki rolled those lustrous violets for a glimpse; smiling at how innocent her friend's guise had become, sun kissed locks and porcelain skin tinged with the liveliest of hues from an insect too little to be noticed on its own.

The only one who's more beautiful than this is you. . .

But danger lurked in the shadows far behind, when a pair of jittery lens squinted with a wry. Walking from its shade, he drew his sword which glittered in the purest silver from the moon's succulent kiss; its tassel of blue and brown hanging limp from his jaundiced hand, conscience and sane judgment obscured by a substance which caused mere mortals to feel invincible like the gods of ancient lore.

"Subete no gaikoku hito ni shi o. Nagai noboru taiyō." (Death to all foreigners. Long live the empire of the rising sun.)

Puffy eyes suddenly latched towards the maiden with the golden strands, while his feet slowly bought its momentum; gunto on the ready to cut the pale skinned scum. Hearing the unearthly stir of leaves crushed by heavy steps, Eli glanced at the mesmerized subordinate and snapped:

"Hang on, do you hear something?"

Having tilted back from her illusion riddled stare, the orphan raised a brow; confused as to what caused the blonde to break in cold sweat.

"Eh? What?"

Without warning, a katana's slender edge swept just above her crown; its harrowing hum bringing back memories which made the redhead shiver as she turned to prove her hunch.

This . . It cannot be.

Seeing the anchor soldered upon his netted helm, her pupils shrunk with fingers rattling on the rifle's laminated skin.

Meanwhile, the strike only snapped the sling off Ayase's map case as she was able to leap back; grinning to hide her fright as she examined the adversary who reared for yet another reckless swing.

"Kichiku beiei!" (Bestial white scum!)

With all attention set upon the exile, the shuddering firebrand was left to watch; rendered stiff by terror's fiendish grip, her mind clouded with gruesome shrieks from people whose lives were snuffed before her eyes.

It's all coming back to haunt me once more . . .

"Maki!" Eli cried as she ducked, her sapphires remain glued to the adversary whose teeth glared by the fireflies' meager light.

Struggling with fear and mouth muttering inaudible words that she didn't even intend to speak of, the maiden then mustered her resolve when blood soon flowed from a gash carved onto Eli's cheek.

"Eli!"

Immediately after her name was sung, the m1903's barrel took aim at the man assailing her best friend; and taking a leap of faith, she closed her eyes and pulled the trigger. The shot rang throughout the jungle, causing birds to flutter off; with the Japanese officer finding himself bleeding from the neck. Replacing the spent case with a cock of its bolt, Nishikino rolled her lens towards Eli who also looked back with relief. But when she returned her gaze to the man, the lass was into the shock of her life when she saw him still standing with eyes now glaring through her soul.

"Baka mono . . ." (You fool) The paratrooper firmly grasped the katana's sharkskin grip, determined to finish her off before his eventual demise. Preparing for a showdown even in the midst of terror, the sergeant trained the piece for his head, just as the soldier spat a mouthful of bile.

"Anata wa shinitaidesu ka?!" (Do you really want to die?!)

Lifting the blade for one last charge, he galloped to close the gap; only to be thrown aside by a round which ruptured his temple, coming from the exile who was unwilling to kill at first. Shaken by the sudden turn of events, the lass saw the blonde's hand shivering with the colt still smoking from the deed.

"I . . . I w-was forced to. . ."

Coming to her partner's aid, the redhead hugged her best friend as she knelt to weep; whispering to mask a voice filled with despair.

"It's alright now buddy, the Jap's gone." She then tapped her crown, "There was nothing wrong with what you did. We're at war, and that guy was more than willing to bring our heads in as a trophy."

Unable to garnish a response, the inexperienced marine loosened herself off her arms and gave a lopsided smile. Pity soon crept into the orphan's heart, as the Russian seemed to be someone unfit for the battlefield; deserving of a normal life far from the curse of war. But when they thought they were out of the woods, gunfire erupted from all around; and the shanghai kid grabbed her friend who was still shocked with quivered legs.

"Goddamnit!" Maki cursed as rounds zipped by her helm, "How the hell did these guys reach so far into our rear?!"

Dodging into an irrigation ditch, she sat with the blonde who was still out of her wits; propping up for a firefight against battle hardened veterans who were well hidden in the shadows. Armed with Arisaka type 38's, they peppered the beleaguered adversary who soon withdrew the stance after a bullet landed too close to her face. Infuriated by the advantage her enemy had at hand, the gal fired potshots; exposing a quarter of her torso for a split second and hiding in the next to expend some spent brass. Meanwhile, shooting from cover to cover; the infiltrators moved in for melee, letting loose of some ferocious volleys which failed to pin the disparaged lass.

"You bastards!" She cussed while stuffing a clip into its breech, "Y'all thought you could take me down just like that?!"

And as soon as she spoke, a marine wielding a type 97 light machinegun spewed full auto fire downrange; and dust found its way into her eyes, sending her to scream in agony with rifle dropped beside. It felt like she was stung by wasps, yet Maki strengthened her guts and quickly wiped off; plunging back into action even if her vision was horrendously impaired.

Dark . . . it's too dark for me to see!

With their lives hanging on the balance, she hastily shot into the void; barely missing a corporal who had crouched in the bushes to reload. The Springfield's pitched crack echoed as another round was expended from the hip, and it managed to wound a private who limped back to safety behind a tree. Yet the skirmish was at odds against the intrepid immigrant, as a shot was replied in kind with a hail; and it became clear that there was no other way out than fighting until the end.

"These Japs . . . there's just too many of them!"

Sitting next to her befuddled peer, the firebrand took the moment to check her peer; and found her reciting a prayer, eyes stagnant from fear.

"Eli?"

Reaching for her collar, she forced the exile to face her squarely; and when the officer insisted on her religious recital, a slap was dispensed by the infuriated lass.

"Get a fucking hold of yourself!"

As if awakened from a very bad dream, Elizaveta blinked for a bit and felt her swollen cheek. Bullets rained behind them, and the Russian soon realized that she had left her friend to fend off the imperial scourge.

"What the hell happened to you?!" Maki desperately shook her for a response, by which the flustered Ayase looked away in shame; unwilling to reason with someone who took the hit for her, just so she could cower behind.

"Eli!" Another shake was given, and it was there that the latter relented and mumbled,

"I'm sorry."

"Sorry is not going to cut it." The sergeant then placed the colt snugly on her hand, "This ditch will become our grave unless we fight them off."

With renewed resolve, the lieutenant locked orbs with her and smiled; then took point as a paratrooper wandered too close, unleashing a full load of .45 ACP's which missed its mark after the man immediately ducked for cover on a nearby trunk.

"Your aim's piss poor! That guy was literally in front of you!"

Nishikino took the initiative to pin him down, and the 30-06 proved too powerful at close range; piercing through its mossy hull which fatally injured the foolish grunt who cried when his carotid was cut. The others quickened pace after they heard his shriek, and the volume of hot lead increased as they fired fervently on the run, except for the light machinegunner who went prone to cover their advance.

Irritated by the young man's shrill, the immigrant blew cover and fired at him once more; snuffing the unfortunate with a round that severed his spine.

"You noisy son of a bitch! That'll teach you to shut up!"

Braving the storm, adamant on making a stand; she dusted what remained of the filth from her eyes and tried to draw a bead at one of the privates when a man leapt from the shadows for a challenge, throwing the belligerents into the ditch to wrestle with locked rifles. With back against its moss laden bank and firearm holding the adversary's own at bay, she squealed as he strangled her from its sheer weight; his maniacal laughter sending chills down her chest, and drug crazed eyes seething with lust as he stared against lilacs bewildered with fright.

"Oshietekudasai, tanoshīdesu ka?" (Tell me, are you having fun?)

"Maki!" Eli tried to help her out of the ordeal, but a footman jumped in and blocked her path; while another smashed her violently against its wall, causing the blonde to gasp.

Rendered helpless by the ordeal, the immigrant's consciousness slowly faded into murk with the face of the dirt ridden rikusentai clearly embossed in her mind.

So . . . is this the end?

Guffaws were heard about, and she turned to see her peer who was kicked several times in the stomach by the rowdy marines, all more than eager to have a fill of one's torment.

"Eli . . ."

Letting go of its laminated frame, a hand reached for the knife hidden in her boot; and within the blink of an eye, the tables had turned in favor after she jabbed her father's memento repeatedly in his collar. A hefty load of crimson oozed into her chest, while the man coughed and wheezed as Maki viciously twisted it to prolong his suffering. The guys behind saw what happened to their NCO and immediately grabbed her off for them to deal with zero tolerance, while the afflicted was assisted by his comrade in arms; with moans imbuing into night's unrelentingly cold wind. Thrown haplessly on its dusty floor, she was beaten up with rifle butts burying deep into her sides; causing her to curl up and cry from the numbing pain which overwhelmed her senses.

Mom, Dad . . . I'm sorry, for I have failed both of you.

"Ima wa son'nani muzukashikunai nodesu ka?" (Not so tough now, huh?) A soldier jeered before he gave her a kick to the chest. Reeling from the blow, she tried to shield herself; but was denied of it when her hand was pulled out of the way, and several more strokes from Arisakas hit home.

"You insolent devils! I hope your homeland gets burned to cinders like you did to mine!"

"Baishunpu!" (Shut up whore!) A couple of hard hitting punches was dispensed to her jaw, and Maki felt like the world moved erratically around its axis.

Their torturous deed continued on, and the girl coughed up bile as they laughed; writhing in agony while being kicked to a pulp. During the arduous ordeal, Maki's pupils shrunk from fear; for their faces were filled with disdain, and utmost mockery for her existence.

"Yameru!" (Stop!) An old rikusentai stepped from the ranks and said something to a pair of grunts who had dealt with them. Obeying his words, they picked the redhead up to kneel beside her best friend, the latter also bruised with subtle spatters scattered about her uniform's breast. Breaking silence as they tied them up together, Eli smiled at her partner who relished a puffy pair of eyes.

"Hey . . ."

But no response came from the orphan who was unwilling to accept her fate. Trying to set a better mood, she jested:

"At least this war will be over too early for the both of us."

Hearing this, the redhead giggled and remarked, "Eli, you're just too darn optimistic over everything."

"Am I?"

A pair of leather boots soon stopped in front of them, and the duo stared defiantly against the enemy's commander. He was the captain of the entire strike force, and three grey sakuras nestled between thick grey streaks in a backdrop of light blue were knitted on his olive collar. For a moment in time, they latched orbs; after which he called for the old sergeant to come over and give them a sendoff fitting for an enemy who had shown bravery in the heat of battle. Standing beside Maki, the executioner slowly unsheathed his blade; while the officer walked away to lead the remainder of his men to press the attack against the commonwealth forces camped beyond the forest's borders.

"I guess this is it." Nishikino closed her eyes, while the lieutenant broke into silent tears.

"Tay . . ." (Father) Eli muttered as she was next in line.

The katana's blade glittered under the moonlight as it was lifted for a strike, and when the time came for it to crash down on their necks; the henchman dropped the sword after a well-polished barung pierced him from behind. The guards who carried their weapons were also dead, eliminated by two more Philippine Scouts wielding the same knife. Almost in the verge of collapse, she was still able to recognize their saviors; her pupils widened from the favor given by a former belligerent, the Tausug from the pond.

Muttering not a single word, the man cut the rope fibers with a seamless saw of its blade then signaled for them to follow him to safety. Picking up their guns and ammunition for some Arisakas and a type 26 hammerless revolver from the fallen aide to distribute amongst themselves, they reloaded before limping behind the newfound allies through the lush undergrowth; away from harm's way.

With the success of the first leg of operations seemingly at hand, General Kousaka returned to her quarters to review the map of Luzon; sapphires focused upon the Gulf of Lingayen where Colonel Sonoda swore to devote most of her seasoned maritime corps, together with the bulk of the Army's 48th Division. Picking up a bottle of scotch from a drawer, she reclined upon the leather lined couch; gargling a hefty sum and squirmed after it burned through her insides.

"Drinks like that should be enjoyed by two, Taisho."

The door gently creaked shut, and the ginger kept her cool and chimed, "And it looks like you've forgotten to knock, Umi."

Taking a pair of shot glasses, the blue haired dervish did the favor of pouring it onto its hold; then duly apologized for the intrusion for what was supposed to be her superior's time to unwind.

"I'm sorry. But I felt like you've needed some company so I decided to come after you."

"How thoughtful." Honoka sniffed its harsh aroma and acquired a sip, "You are a true friend of mine indeed."

The gargoyle could only chuckle and drink, for the coast of Pangasinan was only within a few day's reach.

"Gensui Minami is expecting us to accomplish this task within a couple of months." The commander stared at a quaint reflection on its murk, "And she even gave us some assistance from a strike force that was bound for Java. . . I guess we're too lucky to receive such help."

The aide's serene disposition soon turned grim, knowing all too well of general headquarters' true intent for the archipelago's capture. Clasping the family's heirloom, she rolled the lone citrine orb towards her peer's own and reminded her of it.

"We'll just have to remember that we'll be acting as a wall for her daughter who is busy creeping towards Malaya's oil fields as we speak."

"I'm all too aware of that." The carrot top set her lens back to Lingayen Gulf, "And we'll have to act fast before the States is going to do something about it."

"Anyways . . ." Umi placed a tablet on Honoka's hand, by which the latter raised brows and inquired,

"What's this?"

"Philopon." She quaintly replied, and proceeded to unroll a paper cartridge that held some shredded tobacco for her long pipe known as kiseru.

Examining the object that seemed to resemble a konpeito, Honoka faced her friend who was in the middle of lighting up a patch to calm her nerves.

"What on earth is this for?"

Blowing a stream of smoke, the bluenet simply shrugged, "It'll help boost our men's overall efficiency in this campaign."

"But this, thing . . ." She glanced at it once more, "Is this where our taxes end up with? And where the heck did these things come from?"

"Don't worry, Manchurian gilders pay for that stuff. Harbin's the prime producer of that thing, the same lab that brought us a lot of good things in the past."

Crushing the tablet under her grasp, the ginger stared squarely at her and asked, "Good things like what?"

"Neurological gas like RC-10. Remember Shanghai?" the Colonel's eye glimmered against the lampshade's dimmed light, "I know you're no stranger to the chemical fog that huddled close to the ground."

"That was the worst." Honoka looked down, "and needless too."

With another cloud of smoke expended, Umi emptied the ashes onto a tray she had always carried about; tapping it gently, never letting go of Kousaka's orbs that were caught on its allure.

"And also the flesh mannequin called Akame."

The superior was silenced after hearing the seaman's alter ego, and after a few minutes spent staring blankly into the glass filled with scotch, she threw its contents through a porthole and asked Umi to leave as she would devote the remainder of the night to plan for her next move; but before the latter did as she was told, a bottle of methamphetamine was left on her table, before the door slammed shut.

The commonwealth stragglers had already spent hours on the run, placing all their hopes upon the Muslim scouts who were well versed at Jungle fighting. Dawn was already fast approaching, and the forest was all but silent except for the cheerful chirps of birds greeting the sun's early rays.

"Where are you taking us?" Eli popped an inquiry, "Banga's up north!"

"And that's where the Japs will be setting an ambush!" Maki chided.

Unfazed by the latter's response, the blonde added, "But we may link up with some of our peers along the way!"

"It's never a wise decision to follow the enemy's trail." The redhead huffed, "Had you seen how those guys fought? If we'll encounter them again, I swear it'll be our last!"

Their equipment cluttered as they brushed through a myriad of shrubs, and vines soon caught hold of some and pried it off their packs. Nishikino's canteen, pan, and spade's edge were lost along the way, while Ayase's bag of rations was emptied piecemeal during their hasty escape. Taking a brief rest behind a fallen log to catch their breaths, the group routinely checked their items like they did hours back; and the orphan could only laugh at how much she had lost.

"Wow! Whaddya' know? My fucking canteen is lost and I'm a lot thirstier than a camel living near the Dead Sea!"

The maiden then stared at her partner in hopes of having a fill, but her guise turned sour when she saw the lieutenant drinking all of it on one go.

"Oh wow. Just wow."

Retiring in a corner to think of something that could divert her thoughts away from thirst, the sergeant decided to press her bruises but was stopped when one of the guides offered his canteen. Still a bit untrusting towards the Tausug, she shook in refusal of it; but the man insisted upon helping her out and placed it on her delicate hands.

"T-thanks then."

The stranger grinned in response, and returned to his peers who were in the middle of opening some tin of sardines for them to eat. Grateful for the simple act of kindness, Maki drank half of its contents and walked towards them to return it to its owner. Seeing that she already had her fill, the Moro stood up and they exchanged some amicable stares.

"Thank you so much for giving me some water." The lass gazed off for a while and muttered, "Name's Maki Nishikino from the 4th Marine Regiment."

She then introduced her friend who was sound asleep, "While she's Lieutenant Eli Ayase, alpha company's C.O."

"Alpha?" the guy glanced at his kin, "That's where my brother is assigned!"

"Brother?"

"Oh I am so sorry!" the southerner cackled, "I am Private Nosrodin Sarip from 45th P.S!"

He then signaled for his able bodied brothers to stand as he introduced them to the firebrand.

"These are my brothers Usman and Ismail! All of us from the same unit!"

"Oh, hello guys." She awkwardly waved at them and asked, "You said one of your brothers is assigned on A coy, so which one?"

"Oh you're staring at him now." The man then grabbed his kin, a muscular guy who fitted the profile of the one back at the pond.

"Hold on, you're the one we saw back at the pond!"

Bashful at best, the Moro leaned in and reached for a shake which the gal accepted with a raised brow.

"And what's the reason why you ended up in Muntinlupa, Usman?"

"I'm the cook there. But not a crook."

"Oh."

The friendly Tausug slapped the back of his brethren and jested, "Well you'll be mistaken as one because you're just too darn silent, Usman!"

With the introductions done, the squad returned to garner some rest; but this time, the Muslims huddled closer to the girls who were tired as hell.

"Now don't worry about them chasing us here, we'll stand watch."

"Thank you, Nosrodin." Maki removed her helm and placed the rucksack on its leaf ridden floor to be used as a pillow. On the other hand, Eli remained in a state of unconsciousness; snoring loudly like she was back home at the Cordilleras. Leaving out a yawn, the immigrant lay facing her best bud; and closed those amethysts to catch some well-deserved shuteye.

I hope nothing wrong would happen today, so I could at least catch some sleep.

"Maki . . ." A familiar called from the depths of her mind, "Maki . . ."

Perplexed from the familiarity of its voice, the orphan quickly opened her eyes; only to realize that she lay on top of a grassy hill, staring at a clear blue sky.

This . . . this is just a dream. I know it.

Grasping its supple blades, she flinched after it felt so real; her palm stained with dew dripping on its furrows.

How?

"Maki . . ."

Seeing a shadow in the corner of her eye, the latter sat and faced the source of its voice.

"Ma?"

But there was no one there but a younger version of her, a little girl in a faded blue dress who carried a keyboard which was a gift from her departed father. Even though she knew it was a dream, the heartbroken Nishikino tore up; seeing how naïve she was during the time her patriarch passed, reflected by the apparition who smiled as she watched the sun rise from the depths of Hangzhou bay. With her crimson locks wafting gently with the breeze, the little girl chuckled; while the orphan that was once filled with love and hope for the world wept, mourning the loss of everything she had.

"Mom, Dad . . ."

Then the scene around her changed, and the air became tinged with the noxious stench of garlic. Embers flew like the snows of winter, followed by the distant hums of aircraft and the ear piercing tune of bombs falling from a mile high. Wiping off her sultry tears, she watched as the city was engulfed in flames; adorned with pillars of smoke which bled onto the smog laden sky. The pristine waters of Hangzhou, the sight which she had always looked out in awe was filled with ships; and trails of landing crafts making its way to its bank sent shivers down her spine.

"My city . . . My home . . . All but lost."

Another apparition appeared in place of the juvenile, and she could only crawl away from it in terror for it was the monster who killed her mother. With the rusted dao perched on its shoulder, the red eyed executioner smiled; baring those sharpened teeth which had torn the flesh of her kin in battle, evidenced by the bits and blots stuck in between. Letting out a mischievous chuckle, the demon looked down on her and asked:

"Well hello there, little girl. Are you lost?"

"N-no . . ." Maki pleaded, "Go away!"

Streams of sweat traversed the crevices of her face, and the girl immediately bolted out to flee; but to no avail, as it seemed that she haven't moved in place.

"Now, now . . ." The imperial scourge licked the dao's stained edge, "Let me help you."

Seeing the wraith strutting towards her with a grin, the orphan ran as fast as she could; even if the scenery seemed to have been stuck. Her heart pounded louder with every step, and her amethysts became soaked in so much sweat that all she saw was a blurry outline with a pair of dastardly rubies.

"Don't be scared now, this will only hurt a little."

Rearing for a swing of its broad blade, Nico leaned in and whispered:

"Do you fear death?"

Then when blow was about to be dealt, a shake returned her back into reality; and she saw Eli's vibrant blues which looked like something dire had happened while she was asleep.

"Thank goodness you're up!" the Lieutenant then went prone behind the log which protected their heads during the night. Dazed, the sergeant dusted her eyes and groggily inquired,

"What's going on?"

"We got company!" Eli then fired several times into the woods beyond, "Literally an entire company of Japs!"

"What?!" The redhead quickly reached for her rifle, but was stopped when she saw one of the Moros lying motionless, his lifeless eyes dead set on her with a trail of red flowing from his forehead. She flinched from the sight and tried to scream, but a hand went in to suppress such needless waste of energy.

"Mhmm!" She glanced and realized that it was Nosrodin, the eldest of the three, all teary eyed for his brother's loss.

"There's nothing we could do about it but pray that Ismail gains his much deserved rest in paradise."

Hearing such words, the firebrand squinted with pity; while the man lets go, and calmly spoke to Eli:

"Usman scouted ahead and found a crossing. We must hurry while it's still dark."

"Okay." The Russian responded while reloading her colt, and looked at Maki who still lay in shock, "We're going to take our chance and make a run for it. Just take anything that could be of use and tell me if you're ready."

At a distance, the paratrooper's sergeant relayed commands to the pawns in front; and his hoarse voice made everyone stand on edge. Volleys of jacketed lead kept their heads close to the damp jungle floor, and the guys could only hope that none of the rikusentai flyers carried a grenade. Picking up a few tins of potted meat from her sack, she hastily stuffed it onto the officer's sling and tapped her helm.

"Hey Blondie! What are you waiting for? Christmas?"

Nodding in response, Ayase held tightly onto her shoulder to signal their retreat at once; while the Muslim scout propped up to provide covering fire for their escape.

"Go!" Nosrodin cried on the top of his lungs and the duo suddenly took a leap of faith, into the relative safety of densely packed bamboo stalks to return the favor.

Taking aim at the random sparks of ochre, Sgt. Nishikino watched as the guy retaliated with shots, only to be forced back into cover when a pair of light machineguns came to life; its quicker rate of fire rendering any sort of reply from any of them suicidal. Rounds tore branches off their refuge, and the commonwealth stragglers couldn't do anything but wait until they reload before doing something. The barrage of Arisakas still didn't let up though, and the density of rounds was so much that the sound of its impact resembled a woodpecker knocking vigorously on some block of wood.

"Goddamnit!"

Facing desperation, the orphan fired wildly to the direction of their attackers; embittered by the unfortunate stroke of luck bestowed upon them. Meanwhile, the soviet exile simply braced herself; knowing all too well that her colt couldn't match the range of her partner's rifle. Having all five shots expended, Maki trained her orbs to the levelheaded superior and snarled,

"What now?"

"We wait." The lieutenant shrugged.

And as soon as it was said, the assailants took the time to restock their magazines; and the two played their cards, determined to return to friendly lines in one piece.

"Nosrodin, now!" Maki yelled and dispensed rounds downrange, while the man burst into action and ran; even in the midst of intense gunfire from well-seasoned riflemen.

Come on, you can make it!

Puffs of vapor landed around his feet; yet the scout kept moving, never looking back, eyes set upon the trail dimly lit by the moon's faded light.

Doing the best she could to help her newfound comrade, she quickly cycled its bolt; feeding a cartridge on a second's interval, sacrificing accuracy for rate of fire.

Yet fate wasn't done with its heartless ploy, and a marine equipped with a type 99 sniper rifle arrived and drew a bead at the figure outlined by the phosphorescent beam.

"You can make it buddy! Just a few more steps!" Eli cheered on, unable to dish anything at the invaders.

Freeing its last case from its hold, Maki hastily pried a bandolier's pouch open so she could jam another clip. Then in the middle of refreshing stocks, Maki looked at the soldier's eyes, and it was there that his head was torn open; struck by a marksman hidden in the shadows.

"No!"

A stray bullet glanced the stalk directly in front of her and kicked some splinters which sent her crashing on its floor as a piece pierced her cheek. The officer went to set her on her lap, while laughter was heard from the other side of the line; and the girl felt enraged at the way they viewed her fallen friend.

"T-Those assholes . . ." the firebrand hissed, "They'll pay for this!"

She then felt the ground for her rifle, but Eli picked it up first and proceeded to carry her off the skirmish.

"Not now Maki! There's just too many of them!"

"Get your hands off me you dolt!"

The orphan tried to yank herself off the Russian's shoulder, but the blonde's sheer strength kept her in place. Powerless to resist, Maki lamented the loss of an ally; and droplets sparkled as they tread. A few moments passed and they finally reached the estuary where Usman awaited their arrival, the latter hopeful for his brother's return. But his hopes were dashed when he saw only the girls limping about, fearing the worst; he slung his rifle and came out to assist, resting the weary sergeant against a rock. Leaving no second to waste, he tapped at Eli who knelt beside her friend and asked:

"My brothers . . . where are they?"

Like a burden too heavy to dispense, the girls were unable to stare directly at his eyes as she replied with a very soft tone.

"They weren't so lucky. There was just too many of them."

Devastated by the news, he gazed at the moon with slivery lens; then returned to converse with the sod ridden pair.

"I can mourn for them later. But for now, we'll cross this footpath and destroy it so they couldn't follow us that easily anymore."

Maki didn't dare mutter a single word, while the blonde looked down in shame.

"Come." He then bent to pick up the frail redheaded lass, "We must not let their sacrifices go to waste."

Making their way towards their only hope of salvation, the girls felt their stomach churn from the appearance of the bridge; a one hundred meter long pathway made out of bamboo tied with hemp, wide enough for only a person to pass. It was the only way out of the jungle, and they looked at each other as to who would come first; for it looked like it would fall at the slightest touch. Beneath them, a shallow riverbed with boulders protruding from its murk awaited their demise; and behind, an entire company of very violent men who would take no prisoners at all. Faced with a tough choice of either waiting for a bit to let a comrade pass with the risk of being engaged on yet another firefight, or go first on a structure on the verge of collapse, Maki chose the latter; out of respect for seniority.

"Well, here goes."

Propping a leg up its wilted hide, she swallowed her fears and walked precariously; never looking down or vertigo will pull her off its edge. With her orbs only set on the narrow road, she inched her way through; never minding the unearthly crackle of the bamboo's shriveled husk crushed by the soles her boot.

Just a little more and I'll be fine!

"Maki!" Eli cried out, and the redhead turned to see the rash blondie trudging carelessly far behind; causing quite a stir on its foundations which shook with every step.

"What the? What the hell are you doing?!"

Maki then took a stride to get off quickly, but a portion of it gave in, and her leg was towed underneath. Plunged into a state of panic, she screamed, and the Japanese nearby heard the ruckus and immediately moved in to intercept.

"Maki!" The Russian quickened her pace to come to the orphan's aid, while the frontiersman took his place among the rocks; on the ready to face the enemy whose pitched voices can already be heard from afar.

"You two! Hurry up! They're coming!"

With the sheer weight of the bandolier slowly dragging her to the abyss, the redhead held onto the poles which protruded to serve as foundations for its rail; while the lieutenant tugged at her collar, cautious as not to break the platform she stepped on.

"I got ya buddy!"

Furious, the China gal looked at her and spat:

"Damnit Eli! It's your fault why I got stuck here in the first place!"

Ignoring the subordinate's banter, the officer tucked her arms under Maki's pits; and pulled as hard as she could, but to no avail.

"Hey bud! Listen to me!"

"What?!"

"Your bandolier, it has to go!"

Heeding the superior's advice, Maki snapped its clasp and threw it away. Amused at how fast the latter was at dispatching the item in question, the blonde cackled and remarked:

"You were so quick at throwing that thing off that you forgot to spare a few clips!"

Realizing her mistake, Maki growled at her with an unearthly flush.

"So what?! Now hurry up and pull me out of this shit!"

"Alrighty then!"

With one final but energy taxing haul, Eli managed to free her comrade in arms; just in time for the paratroopers to appear from the darkness, all excited for the thrill of the hunt. Spotting the fleeing pair, they immediately opened fire and took up positions among tree line. The sniper on the other hand took the leisure of picking his targets and smiled when he decided to rest the crosshairs onto the sergeant's crimson locks.

"Chīsana chō o nige, nigeru." (Run away little butterfly, run away.)

With finger tediously set on its trigger, the marksman giggled, and when he tried to take a shot, a round hit his shoulder; courtesy of Usman who had spotted the glint of its scope's mirror. Wounded but very much pissed, the man lost sight of his victim who managed to cross; and kept his head down to track the adversary who had dealt the blow.

"Ano waruguchi! Watashi wa yoi kare no tame ni korosu!" (That scoundrel! I will kill him for good!)

Meanwhile taking his chance to cross, the Moro slung the rifle and pulled out his trusty barung; slashing at the hemp which held the poles in place, all the while making sure that his steps were heavy enough to cause a stir on its segments. With the sun's first rays peeking from canopy of the savage forest, the escapees were already clearly visible to the rampaging rikusentai; and its riflemen made a mad dash through open ground, eager to take the kill. Nishikino took aim and felled a pawn, but almost took a bullet to the thigh if she didn't move away after shooting him down. And with one last hack of its broad blade, Usman succeeded at tipping the bridge's balance; and down it went to the rapids below, severed in half. Leaving the enemy stranded on the other side of the bank, the group immediately hid on some bushes to breathe a sigh of relief. Eli went in to embrace her hot headed peer which in turn lightened up and reciprocated the deed, while the Moro sheathed the juramentado's knife and blazed ahead.

"We must hurry. There's a village around here that we could seek shelter in. I know this because the smell of fried rice drifted here a few minutes back."

Tired, bruised, but having escaped certain death, the duo placed their trust completely upon the former adversary and left for the nearest sitio with the hopes of reuniting with the rest of their unit.