One Day in Unified Year 1966
A Suburb in the Allied Kingdom
In those days, the Empire was an unstoppable superpower.
First the Entente Alliance fell, then Dakia,
and then it even defeated the Republic.
And while they let some survivors escape to the south,
they'd managed to establish dominance over the entire continent.
WTN Special Correspondent Andrew
Those were the Empire's best days, when its territory was at its largest.
And yet...
Former Imperial Military Development Chief Engineer Adelheid von Schugel
The goddess of fate did not smile on the Empire.
How cruel she can be.
Why was the Empire forced to fight a protracted battle against the entire world?
Where did they go wrong?
I wish I could answer your question,
but I'm just another lost sheep myself.
I see.
However,
if I were to turn my thoughts towards the will of God...
Perhaps what drove the entire world to war against the Empire
was their terrible fear of it.
Terrible fear?
Yes...
In the end, it was all about feelings!
Some felt terror!
Some felt hatred!
Some trusted it!
Some were obsessed with it!
The feelings in the hearts of all mankind
were what drove them to follow the path of destruction!
Just as all who live by the sword must die by it as well.
Southern Continent, Unified Year 1926
This is 03. No enemies sighted.
This is 04. No contact!
There are no enemies anywhere to be found!
Shit! We fell for a trap!
Major, what happened?
The report that they'd split their forces was false.
The enemy has concentrated themselves!
They prepared a trap of sweet honey for us, and we let it lure us out!
If they're not here with us,
the enemy must be concentrated in front of our main force.
As planned,
we were able to lure the enemy out of their holes with false information.
Now all that remains is to wipe them out.
Free Republic Military Lt. Colonel Severin Bientot
Free Republic Military General Pierre Michelaud du Lugo
We've won!
It's no good! I can't get a hold of HQ!
Your orders, Major?
Everyone, form up! We turn around and go as fast as we can!
We have the option of taking out their mages.
Forget the small targets!
We're going to blow the shit out of the bastard's HQ!
We're breaking through their center?
Major, are you serious?
Think about our numerical inferiority!
If we just go support the main force, we'll only delay the inevitable!
Which means...
We flip the chess board!
And change the rules of the game!
Right!
A warning?
It says an enemy mage unit is approaching rapidly...
What? From where?
Advance!
Show them no fear!
These failures abandoned their homeland!
Slaughter them to the last man!
They're about to break through the 12th Mage Battalion!
D-Don't tell me...
Their goal is... us?
I can't believe I have to do this every damn time.
Being X, you piece of shit!
But right now, my priority is survival.
And since I need to do what I need to do...
Holy apostles, do not forget the power of your God.
Gather beneath his light and submit to the fate he has given you.
All traitors to our God must burn.
Target: Enemy HQ!
Fire!
Evacuate! Evacuate!
Hurry!
Damn it! So it's the Rhine all over again?
I'm sorry, sir!
Did you see that?
Imperial Army 203rd Aerial Mage Battalion
Talk about a castle built on sand.
Battalion Commander Major Tanya von Degurechaff
3rd Company Commander First Lieutenant Wilibald Koenig
That was easier than expected.
4th Company Commander First Lieutenant Rhiner Neumann
They're too slow!
I'm ashamed I was unable to properly escort the major.
Vice Commander and 2nd Company Commander Captain Matheus Johann Weiss
For all their talk of class, those escargots were pretty crude.
2nd Company First Lieutenant Warren Grantz
Escargot's so yummy, though!
1st Company, Adjutant First Lieutenant Viktoriya Ivanovna Serebryakov
Men, I know how you feel, but knock it off.
This is, in theory, a battlefield.
Of course! My apologies, ma'am!
But we were ordered to return to the Fatherland, weren't we?
Let's let our allies handle the rest of this,
and get the hell out of this sandy shithole!
Let's take some drink and presents from the Southern Continent,
and enjoy our first vacation in ages!
We can wash the sand off our bodies,
and finally get a good night's rest...
H-How?
How did this happen?!
Hours Before
Imperial Capital Berun
Imperial Military Airbase
We're home!
We were so far from home!
Okay, let's drink until we drop dead!
Let's go to Zolka Cafeteria.
Great idea! Or maybe head outside town?
You're home?
Tanya von Degurechaff, with the 203rd Aerial Mage Battalion,
reporting directly to Imperial Strategic Headquarters, has returned.
Imperial Military Strategic Headquarters Strategy and Operations Bureau Lt. Colonel Erich von Rerugen
Well done.
You accomplished great things down south.
I was extremely impressed when I read the reports.
You honor me too highly.
I'm sure there were many unique difficulties you faced in the desert.
By the way,
how is your unit?
Casualties were minimal.
We returned home with no serious losses.
How is morale? You've been involved in a long series of battles.
Morale is high. The men are in great spirits.
You really are our ace battalion.
Let's talk about your next mission, then.
About your transport...
Oh, you know Major Uger, with our railroads division.
And this is Captain Rudolph, with Strategic Recon.
R-Recon?
Early Morning, March 15th, Unified Year 1926
Airspace Above the Empire's Eastern Border
How could I have been so stupid?
I should've just said the unit had suffered heavy losses, even if it was a lie!
Attention!
Men, early this morning,
the Eastern Theater Forces' 437th Tactical Special Recon Platoon
sent out an emergency report.
Federation units were seen actively moving along Warning Line 1.
Thus, due to an accidental error during training exercises,
our forces will be crossing into Federation territory to conduct reconnaissance.
We will observe their forces' activities, and if necessary, issue a warning.
We are not, however, to open hostilities.
If we are forced to fight, we are to withdraw immediately.
Of course, until war is declared, this is a violation of the neutrality treaty.
You are to be extremely careful.
That's all from me.
Major, may I ask a question?
Of course, Lieutenant Serebryakov.
If combat proves to be inevitable,
are we permitted to use force to defend ourselves?
They're Commies. Blow the shit out of them...
Or so I'd like to say,
but we need the Federation to fire the first shot.
Until that happens, you are not permitted to fire under any circumstances.
That... puts us in a pretty bad position.
I agree with Lieutenant Grantz...
The plane is taking us to the mission area at top speed.
Nobody here's dumb enough to pass up an adventure in the kingdom of secrets, right?
My battalion's gone through hell itself, so I believe you're all better than that.
Okay, let's do this, just like we do every time!
First the desert, then the snow, huh?
Fine with me!
I expect you to handle this mission like you do every other!
Do your utmost for the Fatherland and the Imperial family!
Glory to the Empire!
Armored trains...
AA guns...
Heavy machine guns...
And tanks.
And those stacks are... live ammo and vehicle fuel?
Over here, Major.
Look at that.
Okay! Be careful with this stuff!
Look at the size of that thing.
They brought a railway gun?
That's practically a declaration of war right there.
Captain Weiss!
Remind all the troops on standby that we are not to open fire first.
Roger.
Sooner or later, we're not going to be able to avoid the worst-case scenario.
Do everything you can to remain hidden.
Check your mid-range radios again.
But maintain radio silence until the absolute last minute.
Don't screw up and hit the keys on accident.
As soon as we confirm them firing on Imperial territory, report.
M-Major...
The barrel is moving.
If they open fire...
Th-They fired.
The Federation is attacking on all fronts!
This is a declaration of war!
The Federation has declared war on the Empire.
What does HQ say?
All units, regardless of designation, are to begin combat immediately.
Switch to the battle response plan.
Release magical sealing.
All troops,
prepare for the assault!
Any mages sighted in their troops?
Not at the moment.
Very good.
We can assume the Federation is already in combat with our eastern theater forces.
We will attack the enemy's infantry as well as their rear lines.
Be watchful for enemy reinforcements.
All troops have formed up!
Men, don't let these Communists spread their filthy plague another inch!
Take up your guns and fight!
Grab 'em by the family jewels!
Right!
Begin the mission!
An enemy attack?
That's impossible!
We're not at the front lines!
Armor piercing explosive spell ready... fire!
The railway gun! Protect the railway gun!
Hurry! Hurry!
Load it up to capacity!
Aim for the shells before they're loaded!
Roger!
Doesn't look like there's much for us to do.
Big. Fragile. Highly flammable.
It's the ideal target!
Yeah.
Honestly, I hate war.
I think humans killing each other
is the worst part of human history.
It's nothing but a waste of materials and human resources.
But we're fighting Commies.
Totalitarians who infringe upon the freedom of the individual.
There's no getting along with Commies.
If I want a nice, safe life in the rear,
I need to take up my gun.
The 2nd Company has completed destroying the enemy railway gun.
Well done.
Still, it's weird that we haven't seen any mages yet.
Major...
We've been ordered to reinforce the eastern forces.
They've given us full discretion on how.
What's the situation on the front lines?
Fighting a delaying action, I believe.
Waiting for forces from the continent.
They're holding on strong,
but they don't have the forces to hold them back, huh?
How shall we help?
If we want to return to the border,
we need to break through the enemy's rear lines.
Let's take the easy way this time.
We take the long way back, huh?
So we head for...
We burn their capital!
Call it a strategic diversion.
Their capital?
We're not in Dakia anymore!
You're a funny guy, Captain.
Everybody knows the Commies have shit for AA defense.
I guarantee that you could land a Cessna in Red Square.
A Cessna?
Red Square?
Uh, forget that.
But even an average teenager could break through their AA defenses.
Then you're serious?
Of course.
It's a diversion. That's why we really target their capital.
Run it through HQ first.
See if there are no political considerations.
Roger.
I get to survive, I get to keep myself safe,
and I get to fuck with the Commies.
Three birds with one stone! What an awesome plan!
It's great.
I love it.
I can't wait for HQ to give permission.
Same Day, Imperial Strategic HQ
So the Federation's joining the war?
What's going on?
Send out more recon planes from command!
Send all our forces from the center to the eastern front!
Is the retreat still orderly? Do we know what's going on at the rear?
Are we mobilizing our strategic reserves?
Are the trains on time?
Men,
Major Tanya von Degurechaff from the 203rd Aerial Mage Battalion has suggested a plan,
which I would like to discuss.
Vice Director of Strategy and Operations Brigadier General Hans von Zettour
Deputy of Strategy and Operations Brigadier General Kurt von Rudersdorf
What's your opinion, Lieutenant Colonel Rerugen?
A strike on their capital.
It's the perfect diversion.
I think it's worth letting her try.
What? Are you serious?
You're kidding!
That's ridiculous!
In a sense, we succeed even by making the attempt.
If the Federation is forced to divert forces to the rear to protect their capital,
that limits the forces they can bring to bear on our lines.
Easier said than done.
Who knows if she'll even get the chance?
It's the sort of insane adventurism front line officers are prone to...
It's impossible.
Not even worth discussing.
Think about it.
It's Degurechaff we're talking about here.
Degurechaff?
The one with the Silver Wings?
She's a talented warfighter.
And as a hunting dog, she's a combat officer of the highest class.
Her attack on the Dakian capital...
Her decapitation strike at the Rhine...
She also destroyed the enemy HQ in the south.
This is coming from a woman with experience.
She must believe she will succeed,
and is only confirming whether the politics allow it.
You seem to trust her an awful lot.
I cannot agree to this, regardless.
This is the enemy capital we're talking about!
It's obviously impossible!
You don't think she's just mistaken?
Enough.
We don't have enough time to enjoy a lengthy debate.
Indeed.
We're wasting time here.
I judge that it's okay to give permission.
Sir?!
Are you serious?!
It's reckless!
If she thinks she can do it, let her try.
I bet a bottle from my personal collection that she succeeds.
March 16th, Somewhere in the Federation
Dear Mother and Grandmother,
How are you doing?
I've joined a certain unit as part of an overseas volunteer force.
The military rules mean I can't write down any details,
but I'm doing well.
I've finally figured out how to use a gun.
And I have friends who I can call comrades-in-arms.
But honestly,
the one thing I can't handle is the food. It's quantity over quality.
I miss the pies I used to bake with you.
Lately, I've even been dreaming of them.
I'm sorry for being weak!
I need to grow up to be a great soldier like Dad, don't I?
To bring about God's justice
and destroy the Empire that is the enemy of the world,
I'll keep doing my very best!
P.S...
I did something that was kind of a big deal when I joined the military,
but I did it to show I was serious about being a soldier.
Don't worry!
Get ready, Mary. We're almost to Moscow.
Unified States Volunteer Warrant Officer Mary Sue
It's that time already?
Oh no!
Federation Capital Moscow
Moscow Station
Allied Kingdom Military Intelligence Service Colonel Sir Isaac Dustin Drake
So it's finally begun, huh, William?
Welcome to "allied" soil.
Multinational Volunteer Force Battalion Commander (Allied Kingdom) Lt. Colonel William Douglas Drake
It's been a long time, Uncle.
How are you finding Moscow?
Enjoying spending time with wonderful new friends?
The enemy of my enemy is my friend, you know?
I'm being friendly, like the politicians back home want me to be.
Well... I'm sorry to hear that.
So this is Moscow, huh?
It's freezing.
Think they've got good food?
Looks like you have some wonderful friends too.
How was your multinational force's first journey together?
It went fine.
Everybody from the 42nd Flying Division is safe.
For now, that is.
Sheesh... the brass always gets the stupidest ideas.
A unit that symbolizes the progress and universality of mankind, was that it?
Yeah.
To defeat the singular evil that is the Empire,
people of different races come together like a rainbow stretching across the world.
That's the ad slogan, anyway.
Sounds like something a politician would like.
As you can see, it's an excellent unit.
If you'd like, I can let you take over.
I'll admit I'd prefer not to shake hands with wolves.
But I'd rather do that than lead sheep into battle against a lion.
Any interest in being a sheepdog?
The world's a stage.
Everybody has to play some role.
But it doesn't need to be me.
You're right.
Let me give you one last warning.
The Federation purged every one of its own mages.
They all got sent to the camps.
So the rumors were true?
Communists have no room for X-factors like mages, it seems.
My, my... What a wonderful "ally" we've got.
Men, we're moving to a Federation facility.
This place is no ally.
Be very careful.
Yes, sir!
Somewhere in Moscow: People's Party Meeting Hall
That concludes the report from the front.
Comrade Secretary, if I may speak.
Internal Affairs Committee Comrade Loria
Party Leader Comrade Secretary Josef
Go ahead.
Thank you so much for that report from the front lines.
I cannot thank those comrades who have brought us this wonderful news enough.
But...
It's unacceptable that the Empire was ready for us to begin our attack.
Why do you think that is, comrade?
I-I haven't the slightest...
Oh, you can't even come up with an idea or two?
After all, Comrade Nicolai,
weren't you on quite good terms with the Imperial Ambassador?
I... I only interacted with the Imperialists in an official capacity.
You had dinner with him but a week ago, and you now downplay the relationship?
Was that 20-year old wine he served good?
No!
Comrade Secretary,
why don't we ask our comrade here for more details?
Go ahead.
W-Wait!
Listen to me!
I can explain everything!
I've never worked with the Empire!
Hey, let me go!
Comrades, I expect each of you to continue to give your utmost for the Motherland.
Y-You really just want me to drive around town?
Yes. Just another inspection of the city.
Even someone like me needs a break every now and then.
How about that one?
Not great...
So close.
If I'd found her just a little sooner, she would've been ripe for the picking.
What group are those idiots with?
This is a no-fly zone!
Is it that group of multinational volunteers?
That's why you can't trust mages.
I was right to send every last one of them to the camps.
This is 02!
I've succeeded in destroying Moscow Plaza!
I've destroyed that ugly bronze statue!
03 has destroyed the snakes' nest.
I can see the secret police fleeing in terror!
So even the AP rounds we use to destroy enemy bases won't work?
This is 04. Our target isn't taking damage.
It's incredibly tough!
The goal of this operation is to blow some stuff up and mock some people.
Don't push it. Turn around and go.
Roger. Executing order immediately.
All members of the battalion, I win the bet.
I told you even a teenager could break through their AA.
And you were right, Major.
I'm glad you're willing to accept your defeat like a man.
But I will show no mercy.
Everyone, when you get back, feel free to enjoy a bottle of 02's best wine!
We haven't had a mission of that scale since the beach.
I won't retreat a single step in the face of alcohol.
You've got guts, you bastards!
Yes! Hooray!
Men, I'm glad you have something to look forward to,
but work comes before recreation.
Continue the attack!
Roger!
Now, then...
So in this world, that thing was completed?
Members of 1st Company, we're taking down the big guy there.
As soon as we're done, we'll attack the other government facilities.
Activate magics.
Target: that big pile of shit!
Fire!
You might've shot an ally, Warrant Officer Sue.
I-I'm sorry...
You really are a terrible shot...
Even though you're an incredibly talented mage.
You've got that right.
It's the same for the rest of you.
You need to get used to the gun!
Make it a part of you!
Yes, sir!
Okay, keep firing!
Our equipment's in terrible shape.
And we haven't been given enough ammunition to train with.
I'd like to issue a formal complaint.
I'll tell the party.
Yeah, you do that.
Enemy attack! Enemy attack!
Wh-What's going on?
Looks like their "People's Palace" was more fragile than it looked.
Guess they shouldn't have rushed the construction so much.
Looks like they shouldn't have rationed the concrete so much.
You stupid Commie bastards.
You've got your altitude settings stuck on "bomber."
Their aim is terrible, too.
Shall we take out the emplacements?
Shit or not, an enemy camp is an enemy camp.
I can't think of a reason to take unnecessary damage.
I'm sorry!
Hey, Lieutenant,
you had a special reason to hate the Commies too, didn't you?
I know a little about your background.
It was when I was a child.
I know!
Let's do something a little special for you.
If you're familiar with the place, I'd like you to show me around.
Are you okay?
An attack?
What was that attack?
Vivi! Vivi!
Are you okay? Vivi!
Y-Yeah. I just got hit with some rubble.
But you're bleeding!
We need a medic!
M-Mary, calm down, please.
Sir, the whole city's under attack!
Is it the Empire?
The Empire...
We never should've borrowed a Federation facility.
How much damage did we take?
Some injuries.
That, and we lost our place to sleep here.
Get the troops together.
We'll stay on standby and move at the right time.
Mary!
Warrant Officer Sue, what are you doing?
I can't let them get away with this.
I'm going out there!
You are not!
Return to your position!
But they hurt one of us!
I see. So what?
"So what"?
The Empire may be killing the people of the Federation right now!
Like I said, so what?
Even if they have a different ideology than us,
if our allies are fighting, we need to be with them!
That's what it means to be a soldier, isn't it?
If you want to talk about being a soldier, then first, follow orders!
Attention, citizens of the Federation!
What is this broadcast?
It's the Empire, apparently!
Where do we run?
Anywhere downtown is dangerous!
Run to the housing projects!
What is this warning?
Where's it coming from?
I don't know! But the Empire is addressing it to the citizenry!
That's ridiculous!
Nobody's going to trust what the Empire says!
Just seal off the plaza!
The Empire may bomb it again!
Yes, sir!
Impossible!
The Empire?
How could this happen?
Wonderful.
How beautiful.
My blood feels like it's boiling over!
I want her!
I want her, no matter what!
What's this?
You bastards!
Wait! Warrant Officer Sue!
Shit! That idiot!
You ruined the mood.
Major, enemy reinforcements!
Two companies' worth of mages, from our rear!
Did you really get permission to engage?
Yes!
Your kind uncle got us the okay!
We get caught up in this mess as soon as we get here?
Now we've got extra work to do, damn it.
How is she so fast?
Is her magical power overflowing?
Mary's latent magical ability is incredible.
She was far better than any of her class.
So she's incompetent, and a hard worker.
That's a bitch.
Fall back and support.
Don't try to get near her!
Yes, sir!
Their training is on a whole other level.
Major! It doesn't seem to be Federation forces.
What? But this is Commie airspace!
Their appearance and equipment suggest a multinational force.
What?
There may be more. Look for a chance to get out of here.
Phil! Keith!
She's out of ammo?
Give me power, God!
For peace! For justice!
You're bothering me.
This reminds me of something that happened before.
A young girl?
But I guess that goes for both of us.
Th-That's...
What?
Major!
I think it's time to go!
Let's retreat!
Major!
Yeah...
Everyone, withdraw.
Head for the rendezvous point at top speed.
Roger!
Mary! Mary!
Warrant Officer Sue, can you hear me? Wake up!
Warrant Officer Sue!
She's awake, it seems, but she's badly injured.
Pick her up. We're heading back to base.
Hang in there, Mary!
Don't pass out on us!
Being shot with a gun hurts.
Even more when it's Dad's gun.
My dad was so nice...
And she killed him.
I'll make that demon pay.
God... God!
Please! Give me power!
Several Days Later
Extra! Extra!
Fatherland's flag planted on enemy territory!
They burned all their flags?
They took out the secret police?
They even made a movie!
It says they "do not believe in tears."
Imperial Strategic Headquarters
They're making fun of that Federation saying, huh?
Why?
Why did this happen?
I thought they were just going to put some pressure on the capital.
I didn't think they'd destroy every political symbol of the Federation,
put up a flag, and sing our anthem.
That's going too far.
At least we completely achieved our goal of a strategic distraction.
Lieutenant Colonel,
it seems that even you underestimated the major's powers.
It was the perfect distraction, in fact.
And the people are saying it's a historic achievement.
The problem is the politicians.
We won't be able to submit a peace proposal for a while.
Not after we completely crushed their pride.
In their anger, the Federation's sure to send even more forces now.
We need to come up with a plan for the next stage.
Degurechaff...
When she gets back, I'm going to strangle her!
March 26, 1926
Imperial Eastern Front Temporary Base 21
Cheers!
How many times have we done that?
You can toast as many times as you like!
Drink! Drink!
That attack on the capital was a stroke of genius!
That's why you're Strategic HQ's ace unit!
You sure showed those Commies!
Captain, you remember the deal, right?
I'm glad you're willing to accept your defeat like a man.
But I will show no mercy.
Everyone, when you get back, feel free to enjoy a bottle of 02's best wine!
You've got more than we thought!
You sell what you brought back from the south to stock up?
You're a fan of the good stuff, huh?
Sorry, but not as much as you are!
"Aaah," my ass!
This was mine to begin with!
He's going really hard!
Is he going to be okay?
I'm scared. He's gonna be a pain to deal with later.
In any era, drinking has a certain effect in bringing people together.
It's tough.
Major!
How about some dessert?
Fruit punch!
Lieutenant!
Are you giving the major my liquor-preserved fruits?
You can't do that! You can't!
There's no alcohol in them.
They're specially made to be sweet.
Drunks.
Don't worry about me.
I think I have an illness that definitely needs 24 hours to wear off.
Don't wake me up for anything but a mission.
Let yourselves go, but don't get to the point
where it interferes with your duties.
The major, who's like a living, breathing rulebook...
The major, who's a demon obsessed with military code...
Told us to...
...let ourselves go?
Attention, everyone!
Our battalion commander has retired due to illness.
Seriously?
Lucky us!
And so...
Let's have another toast to Major Degurechaff's health!
Cheers!
It's tough.
That toughness...
wasn't normal. Not at all.
That sturdiness, the amount of magic...
It has to be.
That insane fanatic!
Your ability to recover is impressive.
I planned to have you get a longer rest.
I can't rest.
We need to show the people of the Federation why we're here.
You don't have the right to argue that with me.
The volunteer force is a high-level political matter.
Our ally's capital was attacked.
We're not going to help them?
It's their fault for not being able to properly protect it.
We did nothing wrong.
You want us to just be observers?!
We came together to destroy the Empire, our common enemy!
For humanity! For the world!
We should all fight together!
You want revenge that badly?
I know about your past.
Your father died in combat with the Empire, yes?
I can understand your hatred for the enemy.
But...
We're not murderers or avengers.
We're soldiers.
We're not fighting this war out of personal feelings.
We're leaving Moscow in the morning.
If you're a soldier, don't conflate our enemy and the object of your vengeance.
Within the Empire, there's a demon I must defeat!
Everyone, wake up!
What's going on?
Captain Weiss! Is Captain Weiss here?
Yes, ma'am!
Captain Weiss, Strategic HQ sent us a love letter.
Get the battalion together.
Yes, ma'am!
Hurry!
We'll begin the briefing as soon you're done.
It's been 10 days since the start of the war, and the borders have moved a lot.
Look at how the enemy's moving.
There are three general groups.
Group A, moving to the north.
Group B, readying for an attack on the Empire itself.
And Group C, which has started to move towards Dakia.
It's believed that Group B, the one in the center, is their largest.
But there's no reason to just face it head on.
Strategic HQ wants to start at the north and strike them first,
then head down to strike and encircle the main force from their flank.
Then what's our job?
To act as a mobile flying column.
We'll be going ahead of the main units from central command that are heading north.
But we can't ignore the pressure Group B is putting on us.
Their sheer numbers make them difficult to deal with.
Can the center hold while we're destroying Group A?
Captain Weiss...
Remember this.
It's not the numbers on paper. It's what's inside that counts.
Communists believe that the party is always right.
They put politics above military logic.
And if you go against that, you're purged.
Do you want to tell me an army like that is a real army?
Come in.
Excuse me.
Emergency request from the eastern forces.
What?
The 3rd and 32nd Divisions that are serving as the rear guard for withdrawal
are being surrounded at Tiegenhoff.
What about the eastern forces?
This is their job.
They've expended their strategic reserves in the battles so far.
So they've come begging to the unit under Strategic HQ's direct command?
Urban combat, huh?
If the enemy has it heavily encircled, won't it be difficult to rescue them?
Aerial photography from the area doesn't show any heavy guns.
All we've been able to confirm is a small number of field artillery pieces.
Heavy guns are incredibly slow.
The Federation's got the same problems moving the things as we do.
But it's possible that there are long-range railway guns deployed near the border.
That's true.
Something their size could cause serious damage.
You're right to not underestimate your enemy.
But even railway guns aren't a serious threat.
In all our battles against the Federation, we've yet to see a single observer mage.
Even if their infantry have observers with them,
its not realistic for them to adapt on the fly.
You're right, come to think of it.
So it's possible to save them.
But the 203rd Battalion has already received orders from Strategic HQ.
We report directly to Strategic HQ.
So both of them need our help, huh?
But a partial victory that leads to an overall defeat is worthless.
I hate to do this to the eastern forces,
but for the sake of our whole army, we should do the flying column mission.
I hate to say it, but you're right.
We'll just have to pray for Tiegenhoff.
Major?
What's wrong?
This is an interesting position.
Lieutenant Serebryakov...
Bring me a more detailed map.
Yes, ma'am.
A railway map, too.
Tiegenhoff is in a good position.
You could say it's a critical point in Strategic HQ's northern operations.
I see!
Aerial photography shows the rail lines are undamaged!
We'll be able to resupply for our flying column mission at regular intervals.
It's on a river and easy to defend,
and also a fair distance away from the eastern borders.
And we should be able to apply pressure to strategic transit points from there as well.
It's the perfect base!
Wonderful.
Rescuing Tiegenhoff is the ultimate aufheben.
We can give both the eastern forces and Strategic HQ what they want.
We're gonna do it.
Right!
So we're saving people, huh?
Lieutenant Serebryakov,
have the troops load up all the medical supplies they can carry.
Roger that!
It would be nice if we could take some whiskey and cigarettes,
but we barely have any to begin with.
Don't worry about that, Major.
Actually...
We won a bunch from the eastern forces playing cards yesterday.
I was going to put them in the battalion's warehouse,
but we should share them with our allies!
I can't believe you, Captain Weiss.
I thought you had more discipline as an officer.
No, it was Lieutenant Serebryakov, not me, who took their stuff.
We're counting on you!
Save our allies!
Rescue Tiegenhoff!
Imperial City of Tiegenhoff
Imperial 49th Mage Battalion: Major Jotuck Hofen
There are so many! Give it up, damn it!
Major!
There's not enough of us!
Our defenses to the northeast won't last much longer!
Shit! I need help, and I don't care where it comes from.
I'm not even gonna ask questions!
Tiegenhoff Control to 49th Mage Battalion.
Reinforcements are on their way.
Watch for them.
Allies?
You came!
Anti-ground bombardment! Aim at will!
Fire!
I am Major Hofen,
with the 49th Mage Battalion of the 3rd Division.
Major Degurechaff,
of the 203rd Aerial Mage Battalion reporting directly to Strategic HQ.
I'm terribly sorry we couldn't get here sooner.
Is there a problem?
N-No...
Thank you for coming!
We only survived because you got here before their heavy guns did.
I'm glad we made it.
HQ is this way. I'll take you there.
Our job will be to protect HQ and wipe out their survivors.
What about you?
We'll use this city as our base
and carry out the flying column order that we were given by Strategic HQ.
They're pretty rough on us.
I see.
I can understand why, given how highly-trained you looked.
I'm honored.
I'd love to have a drink with you...
But I'll buy one for your men, someday.
I'm afraid my men are heavy drinkers.
They might bankrupt you, I think.
All right, then!
My whole battalion will pay for them!
Drink all you like!
My men will be happy to hear that!
I'll be going, then.
Major!
Was that the officer who came to save us?
Yes.
The rumors that Strategic HQ had a child officer were true, it seems.
That legend of the battlefield was surprisingly true.
Comrades, the situation is dire!
Federation Front Lines
Our main force is barely managing to continue their advance,
but the lack of heavy guns is a huge problem.
Federation Rear Echelon
That's right.
The front lines say the situation is "difficult, but manageable."
Federation Army Political Officer
Some heavy guns would be appreciated if they're available.
Federation Capital Moscow
Comrades, I'm told everything is going "almost perfectly"!
Our forces are advancing with an overwhelming advantage.
There's no need to wait for the arrival of heavy guns.
The mission is almost complete.
Thank you for the good news.
Comrade Secretary, I have some other good news.
Speak.
Yes.
That enemy unit is in Tiegenhoff right now.
"That enemy unit"?
The ones who did that, if you follow my meaning.
An unforgivably barbaric offense!
Just thinking about it makes my blood boil!
There's no reason to let them live.
The overwhelming numbers given to us by the Motherland!
And the air planes birthed by our technology!
And then...
While they are a filthy imperialist curse...
We can also send in the multinational volunteers!
We'll send everything we've got at them!
Torment them!
Torture them!
And obliterate them!
My beloved Comrade Secretary...
I propose a large-scale assault on Tiegenhoff.
March 28, Unified Year 1926
Federation Airfield
Are we not done resupplying yet?
We don't have enough people!
We can't go any faster!
Real combat, huh?
I never thought we'd fight on the same side as the Federation.
We can do this.
Damn...
How did this happen?
Lieutenant Colonel Drake...
We're fighting the Empire, right?
We get to fight too, right?
Only in accordance with orders from home, and as much as they allow us.
That's part of God's will too, I'm sure.
Right.
I hope you don't end up meeting that God of yours sooner than you want to.
"Do not test the Lord."
I will simply do my duty.
That's a wonderful look you have on your face.
Do you miss the sea so badly?
Yes. I'd love to be kicking back in a pub right now.
You think it's a stupid order?
That's right.
The politicians back home must really want to get in the Federation's good graces.
And they're sacrificing a unit filled with nothing but rookies to do it.
Are they insane?
Who knows how much we'll have to pay the widows in pensions?
By the way, is that her?
Yes. Warrant Officer Mary Sue.
Her father was a brave soldier.
I know you've no obligation to do this,
but please keep an eye on her as much as you can.
Major! Major!
Wake up! Major!
What is it?
An attack! The Federation is attacking!
How many?
Eight divisions at a minimum.
Eight divisions?
That's the initial report from our air fleet.
That's four times what we have!
Yes. And that's the most optimistic estimate.
They shouldn't have realized how important Tiegenhoff is yet!
But they're abandoning their plans for a bold offensive?
Commies aren't allowed to be that adaptable!
Did they figure out my plan?
Or did something leak?
Shit!
How?
W-Well, the enemy is human, too.
They can't get their heavy equipment here in time.
They'll use their light forces to execute an attack first.
At this rate, we might lose our new base.
Wake everyone up, now!
Comrades, what has our homeland done?
The answer is simple.
We did nothing.
Nothing.
But the Federation is attacking us. They want to kill us.
It's impossible for us to be good neighbors.
This world isn't fair at all, it seems.
If they wish to violate our rights,
we must fight!
I love freedom above all else.
I will secure freedom,
I will protect freedom,
and I will defend freedom to the last!
We cannot retreat from this battle!
Comrades, this is a battle for freedom!
The slightest hesitation will not be allowed!
We're kicking these Commies out of our country!
We will have victory!
Or we will have death!
We are the guards of our country's gates!
Battle of Tiegenhoff
3 Hours Since the Start of the Battle
Wh-What the hell is this?
I can't believe how many there are!
Don't let them scare you! Fire! Fire!
Shit! Can't we do something about those tanks?
Mages? We're saved!
Now! Fire! Fire!
Don't let up!
The enemy's offensive has been blunted!
We outnumber them!
Shit! They just keep coming!
Where's our air support?!
Stop them no matter what!
Where the hell is she?
Let's go! Charge!
Die, devils!
Battle of Tiegenhoff Resupply Point A
18 Hours Since the Start of the Battle
Everyone, resupply quickly!
Resupply units, move quickly from one company's resupply point to the next!
Get the wounded to the medics, now.
This is 02!
Another two enemy divisions approaching from the northeast!
They should reach our area within minutes.
This is 03.
Point D
We're seeing new reinforcements as well.
Point C
This is 04.
Enemy armor sighted at point G2!
I'm starting to wonder if you grow Communists in fields.
1st Company, anybody who can move, follow me!
We'll hit the Commies before they can enter the city!
Shit! What the hell is going on here?
These goddamn Commies...
Don't they give a shit about their human resources?
Point C, 27 Hours Since the Start of the Battle
Hey, aim for the mages in the sky!
Right!
Take cover! Take cover!
Lieutenant Serebryakov!
What are the reports from the other companies?!
No severe damage, but most of the soldiers are exhausted!
They're running out of magic and ammunition!
How many divisions does that make now?
Ten.
We can't hang on anymore.
This is 03!
They made it past our interception net!
A battalion of enemy mages!
They're heading straight for the city!
After all this, now there's mages?
They're not Federation soldiers!
I think they're the ones we ran into in Moscow!
What?!
Get in one good hit, and then run!
You can do this!
Show the Empire the power of our will!
They're attacking the city...
Are they after HQ?
Turn and pursue!
We must stop them—
...to all units.
Tiegenhoff Control to all units!
Allied observers have picked up multiple incoming air units!
Fighters and bombers are approaching from the northeast!
A special alert has been issued for the area.
All units, be alert!
Repeat!
All units, be alert!
So many air threats...
And there are still so many enemy infantry soldiers.
Major, your orders!
2nd, 3rd, and 4th Companies, your job is AA defense.
Tell the mixed fighter-bomber formation that their tour of the city is canceled.
So we're immigration officers now?
That's a tough job for mages.
You get it, Captain Weiss.
Now do it.
And keep the pressure up on the surface as much as possible, too!
Right!
1st Company, follow me!
Shove a lead bullet up the asses of the enemy mage unit!
You go first!
Keep your defenses up as you charge!
Right!
Wait! Mary!
Warrant Officer Sue,
stay in your two-man cell!
I'm fine! I can do this!
The idiot's heading right at us!
Ready...
Blow her apart!
Mary!
She's like a wild boar, huh?
Three kills confirmed!
Good, time for some duck hunting!
Let's do this!
More enemies to our rear!
An enemy mage unit!
We'll handle them!
The goal is the enemy HQ!
Warrant Officer Sue, strike the enemy HQ!
M-Mary?
What's she doing here?
You're supposed to attack the HQ!
One's heading for us!
Fire!
A-An optical-type spell?
Her magical readings are incredible!
So she's only after me, huh?
We'll draw her away and kill her!
I'll take one of you and do it myself.
Everybody but Lieutenant Serebryakov, keep up the hunt!
We can't get any higher!
Shoot down the fighters first!
The bombers circled around us and are advancing!
We won't make it in time!
17 has taken damage!
Withdrawing!
Captain, the 3rd and 4th Companies will handle this!
We'll pull away the fighters.
You get the bombers!
But if you try to do this alone...
It's better than having the major pissed off at us!
Enemy fighters are nothing compared to her!
2nd Company, prepare to ascend!
Stop running!
You coward!
How many times is she going to fire?
She has to be burning through her magic!
Put all your magic into this...
Climb as high as you can possibly go!
Come on!
Blow them apart!
Altitude eight thousand!
Eight thousand, five hundred!
Nine thousand!
Nine thousand, five hundred!
Piercing spell!
Fire!
We did it... We did it!
All companies, well done.
But our job isn't done here.
We're moving on to hit the enemies on the surface!
The way he moves... He's a named mage?
She's stronger than I thought.
She's a veteran fighter!
Die already!
Die! You killed my father!
What did I do to you?
Don't mess with me!
I never mess around with work!
Shut up! Shut up! Shut up!
I'll kill you! I swear it!
Bringing your personal feelings to a battlefield?
How stupid can you be?
What have I done?
I guess I'm no different.
This is work. There's no room for emotions.
With my free will, guided by my rational mind...
I choose to kill you.
Oh God,
grant forgiveness to us sinners.
I pray that you guide them to your presence.
No!
Is she a monst—
Animal.
I don't have time for your shit.
Goodbye.
Major! Are you okay?
Yeah. Barely.
I wanted to kill her if I could.
No, I should've killed her.
Sir...
I can still fight.
Let me go back.
Let me go...
Please!
Let me kill that demon.
Shut up.
Lieutenant Colonel Drake, the Federation...
The Federation is retreating!
What?
It's a rout.
Everywhere, they're in chaos.
It's time to go. Let's get out of here.
Why?
Why, Daddy?
We don't have enough stretchers!
Well done!
Move him quick!
How many left?
Hey, want a smoke?
Being X once told me
that he'd throw me into "dire straits."
And he was right. A peaceful life seems very far away.
Even the most veteran soldier gets tired.
Even an officer who gets promoted still might not survive.
I can't even see an end to this battle anymore.
A huge war that just keeps growing and growing...
If that's the fate I've been given, then...
10 Days After the Battle of Tiegenhoff April 9th, Unified Year 1926
Imperial Strategic HQ
Major, what is this?
A request for transfer, sir.
I understand that, but...
You want a mission that doesn't take you to the front lines?
Is this some kind of joke, Major?
No, I am extremely serious.
That warmonger wants a position in the rear?
What's going on here?
Major,
why do you wish to abandon the front lines?
To give up your mission?
Sir, I'm afraid I don't understand your question.
Do you think this is some kind of game?
It's like a child throwing a tantrum.
I mean, she is a kid, but...
Don't tell me this is her rebellious phase!
Major, we have a high opinion of you.
I'm honored, sir.
So why would an ace like you ask for a mission in the rear?
Tell us what you're really thinking.
If you say so, sir.
Right now, we won't be able to win this war.
We can't defeat the Federation, you say?
Correct. As far as I know.
Your personal opinion will suffice. Speak.
At the present time, our forces are eking out
meager victories not due to the strength of our organization,
but due to the contributions of individual soldiers.
This will not be sufficient to conquer the huge territory
and vast space of the Federation.
Without improvements to the organization, we will not win.
In the last battle,
we encountered something called a multinational volunteer force.
What's particularly concerning
is that soldiers from the Unified States were participating in this.
So you're saying at some point, the Unified States will join the war?
Yes.
But the Empire presently has no plans for the strategic environment
that would result if the US joined the war, do they?
I'm unaware of any.
You're concerned over nothing, Major.
They are, and have always been, isolationists.
You think they'd cross an ocean to involve themselves in the continent's doings?
Of course, ideally, they won't.
But is a World War without them possible?
The answer is clear.
It's not.
So you're saying that in order to win this Great War,
we need a reevaluation of our entire set of strategic assumptions?
You're correct, sir.
Instead of focusing too much on the victories we've had so far,
we must engage in tactical research and training to use our forces as a single whole.
I believe that's what will give us a chance at victory.
And you want to be the one to lead that research?
Yes. I would like to work in the rear,
finding ways to strengthen our military and properly utilize our forces.
I've come up with this specific proposal.
"Unit Operations and Operational Mobility in the Great War"
It's laid out so logically,
with every possible objection answered...
I never thought that could seem so eerie.
You're taking the situation very lightly.
You seem to have forgotten something.
When you want to fight a war...
This is how you do it!
Shock power!
And the Empire has that power.
War isn't about tricks. It's a question of will.
Remember that.
The Empire is just like your fist. Wounded.
Too much blood is being shed.
Even a fist like this is still good for boxing.
I must fight to the end, even if I'm alone.
Sir,
what awaits you after that battle?
War is politics.
Another means of foreign diplomacy.
Thus, if you cannot bring the war to an appropriate conclusion...
All that awaits you
is a preparatory period for the next war.
It may be the beginning of a new foolish mistake.
Or perhaps the flames of destruction will envelop everything,
and all that will remain is a wasteland.
Even if you conquer the whole world and become a superpower,
it will only mean that the conflict takes on a new form.
In this world, even in the midst of your triumph,
a single stab from behind may cause you to lose everything.
As you said, victory is everything.
But the war must be won properly.
Otherwise,
someday history will laugh at you.
What matters with war is how you win it.
I'll give you two months.
I'll have you deployed to the west under my authority.
What happens after that depends on your results.
Get to work immediately examining the combat records
and seeing what new tactics we can learn from them.
Does that mean...
Yes. The rear echelon mission you want.
Understood!
Tanya von Degurechaff...
Warmonger, strategist...
And child.
Is this the ultimate form of the soldier that our Empire wanted?
Major, in this insane world of war,
what are you thinking?
The rear echelon deployment I've dreamed of!
Peace is finally mine!
There's no reason for me to accept the cruel fate that God gave me!
I refuse to get on my knees and beg God for salvation.
Use the cards you've been given to get the future you want!
That's the right that only humans have!
That's what makes you human!
Too bad for you, Being X!
Two Months Later
Imperial Western Garrison Warfare Research Institute
From west to east, and then back west...
But this time we're safe in the rear.
I'd love to get some rest, but...
It's hard to feel relaxed.
Front lines syndrome, they call it.
Really, how did this happen?
The right person for the right job. That's how it should be.
I'm going to keep doing such a good job that nobody can complain,
and spend the rest of my life doing desk work.
Yes, this is Lieutenant Colonel Degurechaff with the Warfare Research Institute.
Hello, Lieutenant Colonel.
Sir!
I'm so grateful for the opportunity you gave me.
I simply gave your abilities the recognition they deserved.
You honor me too highly.
Strategic HQ has decided to accept all of your suggestions.
I'm so happy to hear that!
We need to do practical research to learn how to best utilize our forces.
And we'll have the proposer carry out that research on the front lines.
Congratulations.
We're giving you an entirely new combined arms unit.
Oh, don't worry.
The 203rd Aerial Mage Battalion will still be at its center.
We won't take them from you.
We'll also be giving you an infantry battalion,
a mobile armor company,
an artillery unit,
as well as the ability to requisition some additional forces for yourself.
This is the Empire's first combined arms unit.
Officially,
it'll be known as the Strategic HQ's Experimental Combat Arms Unit.
But that's a bit of a mouthful.
So we've given it the code name "Salamander."
The Salamander "Kampfgruppe," as you called it.
I see.
So that's what you were thinking when you gave her a mission in the rear?
I wasn't thinking anything.
She's the one who asked for it.
How...
How did this happen?!