Motherland, Bless your children who are about to die

Girls frontline Lingering grudges has reached 200 reads! thanks everyone!

Also thanks folks for reading this story, never expected people to enjoy what I make!

Also sorry for the delays my research papers are finished so I can get back to writing this stuff huzzah

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Open Plains, Special Region

April 1, 2028, 05:52 (1st day of the Blood Moon 638)

The convoy of military vehicles kicked up dust as they rumbled across the open plains, the early morning sun casting long shadows over the landscape. In one of the lead vehicles, Itami sat quietly beside Kurata who was behind the wheel. The silence was heavy, filled only by the hum of the engine and the occasional crackle of the radio.

Beside him, Kurata was focused on the road, hands gripping the wheel, his expression calm. Itami, however, let his attention drift to the back of the vehicle. He couldn't help but smile slightly at the sight before him.

In the rear seats, Lelei, Rory, and Tuka were fast asleep. Lelei, her head resting lightly against the window, looked as serene as ever, her magical staff lying across her lap. Rory, the ever-vibrant demigoddess, had somehow curled up comfortably in her seat, her usual mischievous energy completely subdued in her slumber. Tuka, with her long, pointed ears visible, rested with her head tilted to the side, looking peaceful in the soft morning light.

Itami couldn't help but feel a sense of calm wash over him at the sight. Despite the chaos and dangers they had faced, this moment of peace felt rare and precious. He turned back around in his seat, exhaling softly.

Kurata: They're out like a light, huh?

Itami nodded, his voice low so as not to disturb the others.

Itami: Yeah. I guess even demigods need to sleep.

Itami leaned forward slightly, reaching for the radio as the peaceful quiet inside the vehicle surrounded him. He pressed the button, his voice low and calm.

Itami: Andrew, how's the little one doing?

There was a brief pause before the radio crackled with Andrew's response. Her tone was soft, likely trying to keep her voice down.

Andrew: Red's asleep. Kurokawa's got her on her lap after singing her a lullaby. It worked like a charm.

Itami smiled to himself. Despite the harshness of the world and the constant danger they faced, moments like this—where a child could find comfort in something as simple as a lullaby—made everything feel a little more bearable.

Itami: Glad to hear it. Let her rest. We've still got a ways to go.

Andrew: Don't worry. I'll keep an eye on her.

Itami set the radio back down and glanced at Kurata, who raised an eyebrow but didn't say anything. They both knew that despite their mission and the stakes, they were also responsible for the people who had come under their protection—including the youngest among them.

Kurata: Red has a soft spot for Kurokawa, huh?

Itami chuckled, shaking his head.

Itami: Seems like it. Kurokawa's got that way about her—calming, I guess.

As the convoy rolled on, the silence was almost palpable, each member of Third Recon lost in their own reflections of home.

Tomita, who had studied astrology in college, stared out the window, his mind drifting to the stars and constellations he used to map from his backyard in Japan.

Kuribayashi, practicing in a dojo back in Tokyo, missed the rhythmic sound of the wooden practice sword striking against the bamboo. The discipline and focus of her training felt like a world away.

Kurata, from Tokyo, recalled the city's vibrant energy and the streets he used to navigate with ease. The contrast between those bustling scenes and the open plains they now traversed was striking.

Kuwahara's thoughts were with his daughter. He imagined her playing, her laughter echoing in his mind, a stark contrast to the harsh realities of his current surroundings.

Nishina, his wife, occupied his thoughts as well. He missed her presence, her voice, and the everyday moments they shared that now felt like distant memories.

Each member of Third Recon, in their way, felt the weight of their separation from home.

Then, the crackle of the radio cut through their collective reverie.

Adam: Hey, you guys missing home?

The question was simple, but it resonated deeply. Each member of Third Recon shifted their focus back to the present, their reflections momentarily interrupted by Adam's inquiry.

Itami responded, his voice steady but carrying the weight of shared experience.

Itami: Yeah... Well, since you guys have bragged about how much 'experience' you have being deployed compared to us, how do you deal with being so far from home?

There was a brief pause on the radio, the question hanging in the air. It was clear that Itami's inquiry had struck a chord, making the Americans reflect on their own experiences.

Adam's voice came through first, a bit more subdued than before.

Adam: Heh, you get used to it, man. Sorta. After a while, you just learn to carry home with you, if that makes sense. It's tough, though—no lie. But we've got a job to do, and when you're out here long enough, you start thinking of the guys next to you as family.

Perez's voice cut in, rough around the edges but carrying a weight of its own.

Perez: You know, I missed my sister's wedding when I was deployed to Afghanistan. And later, while I was in Syria, I missed the birth of my niece. I wasn't even in Delta yet, just a lowly Ranger. Things like that hit hard, man. You keep pushing through because you have to, but it doesn't make it any easier.

The mood inside the convoy shifted as the Third Recon team listened in, the shared sentiment of sacrifice and personal loss resonating with them. Hill's voice followed, carrying a tinge of bitterness.

Hill: My girlfriend broke up with me because I was always away. It's hard to keep a relationship going when you're constantly deployed. Sometimes, it feels like the only stable thing is the ground you're standing on.

Adam's voice took on a more reflective tone as he continued, his words carrying a sense of understanding that came from experience.

Adam: Yeah, that's the price we pay for being in Special Operations. Missing out on big moments, losing touch with those back home, it's part of the deal. I'm sure you guys in Third Recon knew what you were signing up for when you joined the JSDF. It's tough, but it's the path we chose.

The convoy fell into a contemplative silence as Third Recon absorbed the weight of the Americans' stories and reflections. As the hum of the vehicles filled the air Kurata spotted something in the distance.

Kurata: Uh, sir? I'm seeing something up ahead. It looks like dust is being kicked up—maybe a vehicle or something.

Itami leaned forward, narrowing his eyes as he tried to spot what Kurata had noticed.

Itami: You sure? It could be just the wind, right?

Kurata: Negative, sir. It's moving, and it's too concentrated for just the wind. We might have company.

Itami exchanged a glance with Kuwahara, who straightened in his seat, his attention fully focused.

Kuwahara: What do you think, Lieutenant? Should we check it out?

Itami nodded, his hand instinctively moving toward the radio.

Itami: Hey Adam, You see that?

Adam's voice came through the radio, calm but commanding.

Adam: Hold up a second, Itami. Let me check.

Adam turned to Hill, who was already adjusting the remote weapon station to get a better view. The system whirred as it rotated, the mounted camera zooming in on the distant dust trail.

Adam: Hill, what do you see?

Hill, peering at the display, gave a low grunt before responding.

Hill: Got eyes on 'em boss. Multiple personnel, all mounted—looks like they're on horseback. Moving fast, too.

Adam's voice crackled through the radio again.

Adam: Itami, Hill's got eyes on them. Multiple personnel, on horseback and moving fast.

As Adam relayed the information, Hill leaned in closer to the screen, squinting to make out more details. Then, something caught his attention.

Hill: Wait... I can see a flag. They're bearing some kind of banner—a rose.

Itami's brow furrowed as he considered the situation. Before he could come to a conclusion, Kurata, sitting beside him, spoke up.

Kurata: Sir, what's the plan? What do you want to do?

Itami turned to Kurata, his expression resolute.

Itami: I'm going to step out of the vehicle and check it out. Everyone else, stay put and stick to the ROE—only engage if you're engaged.

Kurata nodded, ready to follow orders. Itami then addressed the entire team over the radio.

Itami: Alright, everyone, I'm heading out to get a closer look. Maintain your positions and don't initiate contact unless they make a move first.

Itami stepped out of the vehicle, the soft crunch of gravel beneath his boots the only sound as he cautiously approached the group. As they came into clearer view, he noticed they were all women, dressed in gleaming knightly armor but without helmets. Their faces were visible, hardened by experience yet composed with a certain grace. The leader, a blonde with striking features, led them, her piercing gaze locked on Itami.

She stopped a few feet from him, standing tall with an air of authority. Her voice was steady, commanding immediate attention.

Blonde Knight: State your name and purpose, stranger.

Itami didn't flinch. His demeanor remained calm, though he could feel the weight of their eyes on him. He knew better than to give away too much before understanding who they were.

Itami: I'm Itami. And you are?

The blonde knight's eyes narrowed slightly, studying him with a mixture of curiosity and caution. She didn't seem used to people evading her direct questions. After a moment, she spoke again, her voice firm but not hostile.

Blonde Knight: I am Lady Bozes Co Palesti, captain of the Rose Order of Knights of Her Highness Princess Pina Co Lada. You stand on Imperial soil. Now, tell me—why are you here?

Itami kept his posture relaxed, but he remained alert as Lady Bozes introduced herself. He met her gaze evenly, knowing he needed to tread carefully.

Itami: We're heading back from the city of Italica, on our way to Alnus Hill.

Bozes' expression darkened at the mention of Alnus Hill, her suspicions seemingly confirmed. In a flash, her sword was drawn and pressed to Itami's throat, the cold steel grazing his skin.

Bozes: So, you're one of those other worlders. An enemy of the Empire!

The mood shifted in an instant. Bozes' blade pressed harder against Itami's throat, her eyes blazing with suspicion and anger. Around her, the other knights tensed, ready for a fight.

Itami remained calm despite the sword at his neck, trying to de-escalate the situation.

Itami: You've got it wrong! We helped defend Italica, we're not your enemy. We're just heading back to our base.

Bozes didn't seem to hear him, her mind made up. With a sharp motion, she gestured to her fellow knights.

Bozes: Seize him! The other worlders are a threat to the Empire. He will answer for his crimes.

Before Itami could react, two knights grabbed him by the arms, wrenching him backward. He struggled to remain composed as they started dragging him away. His radio crackled with anxious voices as Bravo One and Third Recon watched the scene unfold from their positions.

Kurata: Lieutenant, do we engage? Give the order!

The tension in their voices was palpable. but Itami's calm response surprised them all. Itami: Negative! Don't engage—just run. We can't afford a fight right now."

Kurata's voice came over the radio again, more urgent this time.

Kurata: But, sir! We can't just leave you behind!

The other members of Third Recon shifted in their seats, eyes wide and weapons at the ready. Some had already lowered their windows, peering out with rifles raised, prepared to act at a moment's notice.

Itami's voice came back steady, firm. He knew the risk all too well.

Itami: I said stand down! We can't risk open conflict. Just run—get out of here. That's an order.

There was a brief silence as the team absorbed Itami's command. Adam, quietly observing the situation, leaned into the radio. His voice cut through the tension with a calm authority.

Adam: You heard the Lieutenant. Stand down. We're pulling back.

The convoy, tense and reluctant, followed Itami's orders. Kurata hesitated for a moment longer, his eyes flickering between Itami and the approaching knights. But with a final, resolute nod, he shifted gears and steered the vehicle away from the scene.

As the convoy moved off, the distant shouts of Lady Bozes and the clanging of armor faded behind them. The vehicles quickly picked up speed, kicking up dust as they navigated the rugged terrain. The sense of urgency was palpable, the team's minds racing with worry for their missing leader.

They reached the nearby woods, pulling into the cover of the trees to regroup. The dense foliage provided a temporary shield from sight, allowing them to catch their breath and assess their situation. Kurata parked the lead vehicle and turned off the engine, the convoy's sudden stop punctuated by the rustling of leaves and the faint echoes of distant birds.

Adam's voice came through the radio, calm but concerned.

Adam: We've made it. Everyone alright?

The response from Bravo One and Third Recon was a mix of relieved and worried tones. They quickly checked their gear and made sure everyone was accounted for.

Still visibly shaken, Kurata looked over at Itami's empty seat, his jaw clenched.

Kurata: Damn it...

Kurata slammed the door of the vehicle as he stepped out, his frustration evident in the way he paced around the small clearing. The dense trees around them seemed to close in as he vented, his emotions spilling over in harsh whispers and angry mutterings.

Adam watched from a distance, his expression a mix of concern and understanding. He knew the weight of the situation was heavy on everyone, but he also understood the need for calm and focus. Once Kurata had expended some of his frustration, Adam approached him, his voice steady and reassuring.

Adam: Hey, I get it. This isn't easy, and it's hard not knowing what's happening with Itami right now.

Kurata stopped pacing and looked at Adam, his face etched with worry.

Kurata: I just... I can't believe we left him behind.

Adam placed a hand on Kurata's shoulder, offering a firm but comforting grip.

Adam: Listen, Itami made the call for a reason. Sometimes, you have to make tough decisions to protect everyone. We're going to get him back.

Kurata took a deep breath, nodding slowly as he absorbed Adam's words. The weight of the situation was still heavy, but Adam's reassurance helped to ground him. He rubbed his face, trying to clear his mind and refocus.

Adam: Why don't you take a breather? It'll help clear your head.

Kurata nodded, grateful for the chance to calm down. As he stepped away to take a moment for himself, Kuwahara approached Adam, his expression serious.

Kuwahara: Well, since you're in charge sir what's the plan now?

Adam's gaze remained steady as he considered Kuwahara's question, his mind already working through their next steps.

Adam: Well We're obviously going to get him back.

As he spoke, Kuribayashi, Nishina, and Tomita approached, their faces reflecting a mixture of concern and curiosity. Tomita, always direct, voiced the question on everyone's mind.

Tomita: How are we going to do that?

Adam's expression turned into a thoughtful smile, which only seemed to confuse them more.

Adam: It's going to be easier than you might think.

Kuribayashi frowned slightly, clearly puzzled by Adam's confidence.

Kuribayashi: What do you mean?

Adam: Well, consider this—the Rose Order is tied to Princess Pina, right? If they're moving in that direction, they're likely heading to Italica.

Nishina looked intrigued, trying to piece the information together.

Nishina: So, you're saying we might have a chance to intercept them if they're going there?

Adam shook his head slightly, his tone matter-of-fact.

Adam: Nah, intercepting them might be too much of a hassle and could potentially put us in a difficult spot. Instead, think about it—who's currently in Italica right now?

The question hung in the air for a moment as Kuribayashi, Nishina, and Tomita exchanged glances, trying to connect the dots. Perez and Hill, who had been listening closely, immediately seemed to grasp Adam's "plan".

Perez: Wait... You're not saying—

Hill: Boss, you can't be serious.

Adam nodded firmly, cutting off the immediate wave of protests from Perez and Hill.

Adam: Yes, I am dead serious.

The tension in the air grew as Third Recon looked at each other, their confusion evident. Tomita finally spoke up, trying to make sense of the situation.

Tomita: Uh, could you guys clue us in on what you're talking about?

Adam took a deep breath, realizing he might have jumped ahead of their understanding. He turned to face Third Recon, his expression shifting to one of apology.

Adam: Well. The 'plan,' if you can even call it that, is just wait.

This revelation left Third Recon stunned. The idea of waiting as a plan was baffling, especially given the urgency of the situation.

Kuribayashi: Wait? That's it?

Adam nodded, sensing the growing confusion between their Japanese counterparts. He raised a hand to gather their attention, hoping to clarify his strategy.

Adam: Remember, Shadow Company is staying put in Italica, That means they'll be handling security at the city gates.

He paused, allowing the team to absorb this detail.

Adam: So, when the knights arrive at the gates of Italica, the contractors will stop them. They will release him if they recognize Itami as a captive and understand the situation.

Adam noticed Nishina's worried expression and addressed it directly.

Nishina: But what if the knights don't release Itami when asked? It might get complicated.

Adam nodded, understanding Nishina's concern.

Adam: I get where you're coming from. But even if I don't always see eye-to-eye with the "boys in black" they're very "persuasive" when negotiating.

Kuwahara, trying to get a clearer picture, spoke up.

Kuwahara: That's not all we're going to do, right?

Adam's expression turned more serious as he addressed Kuwahara's question.

Adam: No, we're not just relying on the contractors to handle this. I'll reach out to Caldwell and ask him to keep an eye on the knights from the drone. That way we can react quickly if things don't go as planned.

As Adam finished speaking, Lelei, Rory, and Tuka approached the camp. Rory had a twisted grin on her face, clearly enjoying the idea of what she'd do if things went wrong.

Rory: I swear on Emroy's name if they even think about hurting my Itami, I'll make them beg for mercy before they die. Slowly.

Adam raised an eyebrow, slightly amused but also disturbed by Rory's enthusiasm.

Adam: Yeah, let's avoid that for now. But, if you all want to help out, we could use some extra hands.

He turned to Lelei first.

Adam: Lelei, think you could help unload the gear with your magic? That'd save us some time.

Lelei nodded, stepping up without hesitation, already using her magic to lighten the load off the vehicles.

Adam then looked at Rory.

Adam: Rory, we need someone with a sharp eye to help guard the camp. You up for it?

Rory's grin widened.

Rory: Of course. If anyone even thinks about causing trouble, they'll meet my halberd first.

Finally, Adam turned to Tuka.

Adam: Tuka, we're setting up a few more tents. Could use your help with that.

Tuka smiled and nodded, eager to assist.

Tuka: I'll help wherever I'm needed.



Nearby Woods, Special Region

April 1, 2028, 16:34 (1st day of the Blood Moon 638)

As the sun began its descent, casting a soft amber glow through the trees, the camp was starting to come together. The evening air cooled, carrying with it the scent of fresh earth and the faint crackle of campfires being lit.

Inside the JLTV, Adam and Hill sat side by side, eyes fixed on the monitor displaying the live drone feed. The camera followed the slow, steady movement of the knights, their formation still intact as they marched towards Italica with Itami in tow. The hum of the drone feed mixed with the soft whirring of electronics, but both men were quiet.

Adam remembered the conversation with Caldwell over the radio earlier. He had told the man about Itami's capture, and Caldwell fell silent for a moment, his exhaustion and disappointment palpable, like a parent hearing bad news for the hundredth time. Adam could almost hear the weariness in his voice.

Caldwell: God fucking damn it, really?!

Adam could picture Caldwell rubbing his temples, frustration evident even through the static.

Caldwell: Alright, fine. I'll get something up in the air, but listen—you idiots better free Itami soon, or I'm gonna lose my shit. And when you do, call me. I'll personally pick you guys up. I've got news to share, too.

Adam couldn't help but smirk at Caldwell's frustrated tone. Hill, sitting next to him in the JLTV, caught the expression and raised an eyebrow.

Hill: Man, Caldwell sounds pissed. I've never heard him like that before.

Adam chuckled, leaning back in his seat, eyes still on the drone feed.

Adam: Yeah, it's rare. But trust me, it ain't the first time. Back when he was squad leader of Bravo, he was always like that—tearing his hair out every time me or Andrew screwed something up.

Hill gave him a skeptical look.

Hill: You? Messing up?

Adam shrugged with a grin.

Adam: Believe it or not, there was a time I didn't know my ass from my elbow. Caldwell had his hands full trying to whip us into shape. Guess he's just rearing his old self out again.

Hill chuckled, shaking his head.

Hill: Poor bastard. No wonder he's always so damn tired.

Adam sighed, his grin fading as he leaned back in his seat, eyes still on the drone feed but his mind wandering back to the early days.

Adam: Man, when I first got into Delta, I thought I was hot shit. Came in all cocky, like I had the whole world figured out. Caldwell? He put me in my place real quick.

Hill glanced over, his curiosity piqued.

Hill: Yeah? How so?

Adam let out a low chuckle, the kind that comes with a bit of embarrassment.

Adam: First mission, Afghanistan. I acted like I knew everything. Thought I could handle it all on my own. Caldwell pulled me aside and ripped me a new one. Told me straight-up, "This isn't about you fuckhead, it's about the team. Get your head out of your ass, or I'll put it there for you."

Hill laughed, shaking his head.

Hill: Never knew he was like that.

Adam nodded, a small smile tugging at the corner of his lips.

Adam: Heh, If it weren't for guys like him, I'd probably still be that arrogant kid thinking I could take on the world solo. But he drilled it into me—this life? It's about the people next to you. Can't survive without 'em.

Meanwhile, on another side of the camp, Andrew and Kurokawa were tending to Red, who was still visibly shaken from the sudden encounter with the knights. She had been startled awake during the chaotic drive, her wide eyes reflecting fear.

Andrew knelt beside her, his voice gentle as he spoke.

Andrew: Hey, it's okay. You're safe now.

Red clung tightly to Kurokawa, her small hands gripping the fabric of Kurokawa's uniform like a lifeline. Her voice was soft but trembling with fear as she spoke.

Red: The bad people in armor... are they gone?

Kurokawa knelt to be at eye level with Red, offering her a gentle, reassuring smile.

Kurokawa: They're gone, Red. You don't have to worry about them. You're safe here with us.

Andrew sat beside them, nodding in agreement as he ruffled Red's hair.

Andrew: Yeah, they won't be bothering us.

Red looked up at both of them, her grip slowly loosening, though she still held on to Kurokawa for comfort.

Red: I... I'm scared.

Kurokawa wrapped an arm around her, holding her close.

Kurokawa: I know. But you're brave, Red. You made it through that. And now, we're here to protect you, no matter what.

Andrew: We'll keep you safe, kid. Always.

Red's eyes softened a little, the fear beginning to ebb as she took in their comforting words. She finally let out a small, shaky breath and rested her head against Kurokawa's shoulder.

Red: Promise?

Kurokawa gently stroked her hair.

Kurokawa: I promise.

Perez stood a little way off, watching the scene between Andrew, Kurokawa, and Red unfold. His expression softened as he noticed how close the three of them had become, especially how gentle Andrew was with the kid. He hadn't seen that side of him too often.

Kurata wandered over, catching Perez's thoughtful gaze. He raised an eyebrow and nudged Perez's arm.

Kurata: What are you staring at?

Perez grinned, shaking his head slightly.

Perez: Oh You know, just looking at those three, ya know normally that Andrew's nosy as hell and way too uptight. But with the kid? It's like he's a different person. Real softy.

Kurata raised an eyebrow.

Kurata: Uptight? Andrew? Nah, man, he never gave off that vibe. He seems pretty laid-back to me.

Perez laughed, shaking his head.

Perez: Oh, trust me, that's because you're not on the team. Andrew's chill with outsiders, but with us? Man, he's like the over-nosy mom, always worrying about everyone's health. You stub your toe, he's on you with a med kit before you can blink.

Kurata smirked, intrigued by the new perspective.

Kurata: So is he like... the squad's mom or something?

Perez: Exactly! Adam's like the strict dad, keeps us in line, but Andrew? He's the one always checking if you've eaten, stayed hydrated, or slept enough. Half the time he's more worried about our health than his own.

Kurata chuckled, shaking his head.

Kurata: That's... kinda hilarious.

Perez: Oh, it is. But, man, with the kid? He's a total softy.

Perez leaned in a little closer, smirking as he continued.

Perez: And, uh... Have you noticed how close he's gotten with Kurokawa? It's a bit too close, considering they've only known each other for what? A few weeks?

Kurata raised an eyebrow, intrigued.

Kurata: Really? You think something is going on there?

Perez shrugged, grinning mischievously.

Perez: I'm not saying anything definitive, but come on, man—look at 'em. Always together, watching each other's back. The way they're around Red, they practically look like a little family already.

Kurata glanced over at Andrew and Kurokawa again, noticing their easy familiarity as they tended to Red. He chuckled.

Kurata: Huh. I didn't think of that. But now that you mention it...

As Perez and Kurata continued to watch Andrew, Kurokawa, and Red, Kuwahara's voice cut through the evening air, calling everyone over for dinner.

Kuwahara: Alright, everyone! Food's ready!

The group gathered around the campfire, which had been cleverly built as a Dakota hole, the flames mostly hidden from sight but providing enough warmth and light to cook and keep them comfortable. The subtle design reflected their training—effective and discreet, even when out in the wilderness.

The mood around the fire was a mix of quiet concern and attempts at casual conversation. Tomita and Kuwahara sat nearby, clearly worried about Itami, their expressions a little more serious than usual. The rest of Third Recon shared similar looks, casting glances toward Adam for reassurance.

Tomita: Do you really think he's gonna be alright?

Adam took a bite of his food, chewing thoughtfully before answering, his voice calm but confident.

Adam: He'll be fine. Itami's tougher than he looks. He's been through SERE school.

Kuribayashi, mid-bite, froze for a second, surprised.

Kuribayashi: Wait, what? He went through SERE school? Isn't that, like, serious shit?

Adam and Andrew both looked at each other in surprise, before Adam responded with a smirk.

Adam: It is, You guys didn't know? Itami's ranger qualified.

The revelation hit the members of Third Recon like a ton of bricks, leaving all of them—except Kuwahara—staring at Adam in disbelief.

Tomita: A Ranger? That guy?!

Kuribayashi: That otaku's a fucking Ranger?!

Adam raised an eyebrow, genuinely surprised at Third Recon's collective shock.

Adam: You guys seriously never noticed? I mean, come on, you think I was hanging around Itami all the time just 'cause we're best buds? I trained with him during joint ops between Delta and the Japanese Rangers. He was in a Ranger platoon back when he was with your Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade.

Kuribayashi was still processing the revelation, her expression a mix of confusion and disbelief.

Kuribayashi: No... but... how? He's always so lazy!

Tomita shook his head, equally stunned, while the rest of Third Recon was quiet, trying to fit this new information into their image of Itami.

Meanwhile, Rory, Lelei, and Tuka, who had been listening, exchanged puzzled glances.

Tuka: Why are they so shocked? Is becoming a "Ranger" really that special?

Lelei: I'm not sure I understand. Itami seems like a regular soldier. What's the big deal?

Andrew, who had been sitting nearby, decided to chime in, realizing the others needed some context.

Andrew: Well, I'm not familiar with the process itself but I do know it's modeled very closely to our US Rangers. So why don't we let our resident Ranger here explain, Perez?

Perez rolled his eyes, feigning exasperation.

Perez: Why do I have to explain it? everyone went through Ranger school too! It's not like I'm some kind of expert.

Andrew leaned closer, his expression playful yet firm.

Andrew: Yeah, but you're the only actual Army Ranger here who served in the regiment. The rest of us are just Ranger-qualified. You've got the real experience.

Perez took a deep breath, shifting into a more serious tone as he prepared to share his story.

Perez: Alright, so Ranger school is intense. It's about pushing your limits physically and mentally and testing your leadership skills under pressure. But honestly? The hard part isn't the training itself; it's staying in the regiment after. They can kick you out for just about anything if you can't keep up.

Rory's brow furrowed, curiosity piqued.

Rory: So, what exactly do Rangers do?

Perez smiled a little, pride creeping into his voice.

Perez: Mostly direct action raids—getting in, hitting a target, and getting out before the enemy even knows what hit them. But my most memorable missions? That would be when I was part of Task Force Merrill in Afghanistan. Our job was to neutralize then occupy an enemy position and basically tell the enemy to come get us.

Perez's expression shifted as he continued, the weight of his memories evident in his voice.

Perez: Those missions were successful at destroying the enemy's capability, but they came at a steep cost. We lost 16 Rangers during those operations.

He paused, looking over at Adam.

Perez: I remember one particular mission with Task Force Merrill. We were occupying this position, trying to provoke the enemy into coming after us. It was going well at first—too well. But then they caught on, and we got pinned down.

He took a breath, the memory vivid in his mind.

Perez: I'll never forget the moment. We were taking fire from all directions, and it felt like we were surrounded. Just when I thought it was over, I saw Delta roll in. The way they moved... It was incredible. I thought to myself, "I want to be like that."

There was a brief silence as the weight of his words hung in the air. Adam leaned in, his tone more serious now.

Adam: And you became that, man. You've worked hard to be the best.

Perez smiled at Adam, gratitude evident in his eyes.

Perez: Thanks, boss. I appreciate that. It's been a journey for sure.

Just then, the calm of the night was broken by Hill's voice calling out from the JLTV.

Hill: Hey! Everyone, listen up! Shadow just made contact with the knights—they've freed Itami! Boss, I've called Caldwell he's coming to italica too.

A wave of relief washed over the group, their tension easing as they processed the news. Kuribayashi's eyes widened, and she exchanged excited glances with Kurata.

Kuribayashi: He's free? That's incredible!

Kurata nodded vigorously, a grin spreading across his face.

Kurata: I can't believe it worked!

Adam stood, a triumphant smile breaking across his face.

Adam: Alright, let's pack up and get ready to move. We need to be on standby to pick him up.