Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The morning came, and the frost settled. I woke up not too long ago, barely with my own thoughts in mind. Although quiet by the western side of the Parliament's standards, city life irritated me awake. There are noises outside that are unknown to me, machinery making sounds alien to my ears, and the occasional sound of a coffee maker dinging in the rooms next door. There is an upside - the sunlight pouring through the blinds makes me comfortable in my room.

Or, accurately, our room.

"Mmm."

Kursk moved from underneath the blankets. Sleeping still with the steady rise and fall of her chest. One larger hump formed behind her as her tail adjusted to a better position. Holding me closely as she hugs her body so close to mine.

Somehow, at one point in the day, her owl got inside. As it sat nestled on top of a stand. Resting its eyes as it saw fit for an animal generally used to the night. Whoever let the owl in was more a question of how than who. The question will remain unanswered because he and the one next to me became a normal part of life.

I don't bother her. This is a rare time for us. Usually, I would be up for the day at such an hour. Checking temperatures for dangerous drops in the cold, inspecting traps for the game, or occupying myself gathering firewood for the next day or weeks. Here in the city? I don't do any of that.

We've been here with each other for the two days that passed. Mostly resting and sometimes exploring what the city has to offer. There isn't much, primarily bare necessities, and few recreational places, but I don't think either of us cares about the sites. In the end, I think what matters is we are together. Assurance is all anyone really needs these days.

My fingers part through her wild hair to touch her horns. Smooth, metallic, and secretly very sensitive. She stirs yet doesn't move away and moves towards my touch. Neutral-faced yet sleeping soundly. Before, she would undoubtedly berate me or wake up to confront me. Now? I'm surprised I am where I'm at now.

Kursk has grown comfortable around me, sometimes almost possessive. We are rarely apart, and being here made it difficult for both of us. Urban life is so foreign to me now, and for her too. Truthfully, I don't know how to navigate the streets and a pathway in a forest. Nor watch the roads for danger like a tundra teeming with wildlife. And like a wolf, she sticks close.

I think what I am saying to myself is I'm glad I have her.

"Mmm, Alexei."

“Good morning, Kursk.”

Clinging onto my side and letting herself sink into my arms. We remain this way for a long time before she stirs again. Moving to a better position where she can look at my face. Leaning her head on my shoulder in the darkened room.

"Today is the day," She murmurs to me. Her face souring with eyes scrunched closed, "I will be leaving you again."

"I know," I stroke her back. Making sure I find the tender spots on her back. Sensitive, sore spots because of her rigging having to connect to her spin. Such touching always seems to calm her. Even now, she hums deeply at my touch, "Are you sure you can go back like you are now?"

"I have a duty to my sisters and my country," she wiggles her tail as it sways the blanket until it goes limp, "I don't want to let go."

"I know."

My hands come across the new scars. Only a couple wraps of gauze remain on her side and legs. Her wounds have almost healed after a long rest with me, which she reluctantly agreed to. Kursk is still as wild as she is stubborn, and taming a wolf wasn't the hard part. The other end of the difficulty curve was ensuring the wolf stayed down. She wasn't one to be told what to do against her wishes, even if it was good for her.

Grumbling now, she complains, "This is too cozy. You're dangerously comfortable and warm."

"I know," I repeat for a third time.

"Can you say anything else?"

"Nope. Do you want me, too?"

"You could have told me to get up," Kursk stretches more under the blankets, finally peeling herself off of me. Setting herself up on the side of the bed as she sits up nude, "Least you can do as my mate is to be responsible as I am for you."

"I thought about it until your body told me a different story," her tail stopped wagging and smacked my leg in reprisal, "You like cuddling, don't lie."

"I know," her face hidden behind a lifted sheet, "Besides, we have much work to do. The Admiral is back in the harbor, and it's time I introduce you to the fleet."

"...right." Yearning for the covers on my bed instead of the clothes neatly set next to the bed, "We were going to meet eventually. Yet I can't wrap my head around why you think it's necessary to introduce me to the rest of the Northern Parliament."

"Don't tell me you're backing out now," Kursk breaks away finally and hops onto her feet. Heading for her uniform laid out for the day, "Meeting your uncle will require you to meet the rest. It is unavoidable with how beloved he's become. Besides, I thought you missed him."

The pit in my stomach clings to my doubts, "I do. He's family and all."

"But?" My girlfriend balances our conversation with adjustments to her dress.

"I don't know how much my uncle will recognize and vice versa," I admit to her, "An Admiral, my uptight Uncle Rall, you make it sound like he's nothing from what I knew. He sounds too happy. Too okay with things."

"That's a bad thing?" Kursk drops her tie over her breast, her hands still behind her back, working whatever magic keeps her clothes together.

"No, none of you could've put up with him. My father barely did," Seeing her struggle in the dim light, I jumped at the chance to help, "Here."

Reaching behind her, I help move the dress properly in place. Tying the collar that keeps her top up.

"There's a difference between not seeing each other in months and having zero contact with someone for years. I was a very different person when I knew him."

"An apt concern, I see. He is still your family. I don't see why he wouldn't want to see the only blood he has left," Kursk's dress finally is set, "Thank you, Alex."

"Don't mind it," I grab my clothes and prepare, "Besides my Uncle… I'm not too keen on meeting the rest of you."

"And that worry," she pulls up her leggings, "Is very understandable. We have plenty of colorful individuals. Soyuz is unique. She's normally easy to converse with outside an official work setting. You don't normally come across her since she spends most of her time in the Kremlin. The Supreme Soviet likes keeping her close in case things…happen."

"I know," I say one more time. Curling the corners of my lips into a waiting grin.

Having set our clothes aside, our next business order is our breakfast. Kursk deadpans me, holding a mug before shoving it into a coffee maker, "Not going to make a habit of using one set of words, are we?"

"Maybe," I shrug on my usual hunting gear, now cleaned and stitched up to be presentable, "I don't talk to people."

My girlfriend hums, having just picked up her gauntlets, "You and I agree. As we both have long since mentioned, a pack is more than one or two wolves."

"We would be stronger together," Audible sounds of a rifle clicking disrupt my thoughts as I check it before stowing it away, "I thought you liked being alone."

"You taught me being alone is different than being lonely," Her voice cracks, and she covers it with a sigh, "Right now, I want you to know the fleet in case…things happen to me."

"Kursk…" War is war and I know what she means yet it still stings. We understand the reality of our situation and, for I'm no stranger to death, I...we know there's a chance she may never come back. While facing away from me, I wrap an arm around her waist. Bringing us closer again to remove the cold morning air in between. 

"I don't like thinking about that," Her tail, fitting itself in our embrace, slinks around my own hips, "But...we both understand, right?" 

"I know," she leans back for a quick peck on the cheek, "Now, let's get some coffee…"

Tugging on my hood, I look over my shoulder anxiously. The streets fade behind us to the closing sounds of crashing waters. Various men and women work around the docks. Dark uniforms mixed with body armor and winter gear. Between the falling snow and labor, they show only stoicism in the face of the cold. Throwing indifference our way, Kursk, on the other hand, doesn't mind.

Stopping before the gate, Kursk pivots, "The Admiral should be in his office today. If not, then we can always check Gangut's quarters."

"The manically laughing one?" My girlfriend bumps my shoulder, "Hey, just saying, you've mentioned her before."

"Correct, only don't repeat those words to her face." Kursk dryly explains, rolling her eyes, "She's the local drunk. Despite her very inebriated lifestyle, Gangut is a fierce fighter and confident soul. A partygoer at heart and the only one who refuses to stop barging into my room for drinks."

"I'll keep that in mind," raising an eyebrow at the various ships anchored to the shore, "Is the whole fleet here?"

"Half," my girlfriend waves to a tower, "Unless it's a major operation, we always keep our forces spread out to keep an eye on the Sirens. Baltic and Pacific."

My silence permeates. Nothing comes to mind as we wait, and I don't appreciate the feeling of being watched. Kursk may have picked up on this because she was already close by before I noticed.

"Still nervous?" She peeks at me, "Your fingers are twitching."

"Yeah," I nod faster than I intended, "I'm not sure."

The main gate opens and clicks. Kursk leads me around a corner into a suffocating fence and barbed wire corridor. Security features I don't recognize and black domes hanging overhead. Cameras are my first guess based on how one constantly tracks my movements. I almost reach for my pistol until her tail stops my wrist from pulling.

"You're safe here," her words so calm and soothing, "I won't let anything harm you."

"I know, and I love you for it," hesitation keeps me trembling, and for this, I try a deep breath, "Maybe I'm paranoid. Maybe."

"Ah." Kursk watches the cameras above, staring directly at one of them, "Here, let's keep moving."

Reaching in between her breasts, she pulls a key. Opening the next set of doors into an expansive courtyard. Dotted with well-trimmed trees, kept sidewalks, and a frozen pond in the middle. The lack of people creates this foreboding emptiness. Kursk beckons me to follow a path, heading directly to a large building at the end. One with the faded symbols of the hammer and sickle.

"We're away from the cameras," Kursk whispers to me. Her arm linked into mine as we slowed, "Come on, talk to me. You're still shaking."

"I guess," I spare one more glance behind me, "I don't like military bases. Too many bad experiences. Reminds me too much of my time in the army."

She leans closer to me, easing her hardened glare to one of worry, "…you should've said something about this before I brought you here."

"There's no better way to do this," I muster my best grin, "It was inevitable. I trust you. And if my uncle is willing to place any ounce of what I feel for you for the rest of the kansen, then I'm open to that too. I don't want to make this more complicated than it needs to be.

Stopping us right on the path, she spins me to face her. Reaching to my chin, she cups it with her metallic gauntlet. Roughing up my beard with her fingers.

"Hah," Kursk's lips curl into a faint smile, "Trust."

"Because it's true," My finger rub across her thighs back to her hips, "You sure this is the right time? This doesn't seem to be a private spot."

"Give me this moment, Alexei," she gives me a quick yet warm kiss before pulling away, "Brief as it is, I won't be able to give you a tour…I have another mission situated in Kamchatka."

"So soon?" this breaks my jitters, "Seriously? And with your wounds?"

"It's another convoy escort, nothing I can't handle." We both walk up the stairs to the office's entrance, "We're shorthanded right now, and they need raw materials for the factories there. I will be back in a week."

"...a week out here." My grimace must be evident because Kursk is giving me a sharp glare.

Kursk holds her tongue until we move through a large pair of doors, "Alexei, we've talked about this."

I sigh, not wanting to argue, I keep whatever response back. Instead, I take a long deep breath through my nose. Shouldering my pack and playing with the collar of my coat, "Okay, Kursk. Let's do this."

Before she pushes the doors open, another force does it for her. Right behind the doors is a large man with a scraggly beard. A tower of a man in the Parliaments' standard white bursts before us in a loud announcement. Kursk narrowly avoids falling behind her before she latches onto my arm with her tail - pulling herself back to the side and almost knocking me down.

Embarrassed as we both are, I grab her as best as I can. Our chaotic display of confidence leaves all of us dazed. It's my Uncle Rall, alright. The cold hard man from eastern Siberia and one who grew up during the waning days of the Old Union. I half expected him to glare at me angrily for being so 'funny.' Instead, he laughs.

"Alexei! My nephew!"

Being larger and leaner than I last saw him, his arms wrapped around me like a bear. Lifting me from the ground while suffocating me. I catch one pleading look at Kursk, who shrugs. Another girl behind, one with a distinct white futrzane, waves at me.

My uncle keeps hugging me and patting my back. I can't breathe.

"Oh, you've grown up so much!" Ach, air, "Look at you! The sulky teenager grew into such a man!"

He finally puts me down, and I gasp for air, "G-good. To see….Hi, Uncle."

"Hahahahah!" He booms again, patting me hard, "When Soyuz said you were here, I couldn't believe it! Here you are! малышка!"

He sniffs me, his gaze soaking every part, "Hmm, you look like a homeless vagrant, малышка."

"S-stop calling me that!" I sag my shoulders. Yeah, this is very different. He is nothing like when I last saw him, "Put me down, Uncle Rall! I'm not a child."

"To me, you still are," He pats my head, which feels so degrading, "You are a lot like your father. Mind you, I wished I got on better with him. You smell and look so much like him. Only your eyes and face differ. Great genetic inheritance from your mother's charms!"

"Uncle Rall…" I try, no, I beg him, "You're so jolly. And loud."

"I am," he said, putting his hands on my shoulders, "I'm happy. Happy to see you. Welcome to the base, my nephew. I'm so glad to see you again."

Despite how…boisterous he became, I can see the twinkling life in his eyes. The joy in each word and the pure presence he puts on despite how muted his uniform is. However, his body, his face, and everything. This is my old Uncle Rall. And whatever the kansen did to make him so different than the grouchy asshole of my youth…makes me shudder.

"He's here?" Another voice from behind me announces herself, "Comrades!"

"Oh, no," I see Kursk pinch her nose, "Avrora, you told me she's still in bed."

"When I last texted you, yes," the lady with the futrzane maintains her innocent grin, "That was two hours ago."

Kursk grumbles loudly, "She has more alcohol…why?"

"Don't ask me. Ask the Comrade Admiral. He keeps giving it to her," This, Avrora, and her words would be drowned out by my growing headache.

"Your long lost family is here!" I'm greeted by another dominating presence behind me, being turned around by my uncle. She is wearing her tailored uniform and showing as much of her rack as others I've seen. Thankfully, and unfortunately, my face is met with a handful of cold fresh bottles. A pack of whatever alcohol there is and above it - a very eerie, yet large smile.

This must be-

"Greetings, comrade! I am Gangut! And I brought the alcohol to celebrate Comrade Rall's family reunion!" Her grin is wider than my horror, "Come on! Don't be like that! We were waiting for you to arrive for a long time!"

What?

"Kursk?"

Her guilt is written on her contorting face, "Sorry, Alex. After you met Soyuz, they wanted you to come to the base. And, uh-"

"She wanted to spend more time with you despite my 'request' to see you as soon as I can," Uncle Rall's chastising tone oozes with teasing, "You should've seen her face when I heard from Kronshtadt about your presence. All her requests for supplies to some far-off location in Siberia, her leaves always taking the longest, always asking for this post despite no one wanting to be here! It all made sense! Seeing you two together reminds me almost of your parents, малышка!"

The name makes me want to throw up, "You're not going to stop calling me that, are you?"

"Nope!" He exclaims, "Gangut! The booze!"

The popping of a cork erupts. Followed by her deep chuckling.

I am suddenly filled with a sense of dread. Part of me wanted to sneak away and get out. Another seeks to hide altogether from the world. Still underneath the heavy arm of my uncle, I can only accept my fate.

Kursk is the one to voice my objection, "At this hour?! It's not even noon yet!"

"I can get you water if you want, Kursk," Avrora offers, "Same to you, Alexei."

"... I'll take you up on that offer, please."

"Live a little, nephew!" My uncle offers an already half-chugged bottle of what I am surprised to see is scotch, "I'll only offer it once. And no more. But just this once."

Pinching my nose and no longer feeling uncomfortable, I stare down at the bottle and look behind him at Kursk. Who was too engrossed in her arguing with a somewhat reddening Gangut and a calm Avrora? Other girls have joined in - those I have yet to meet. Presumably, I will soon, regardless of whether I want to. 

"Fine." I take the bottle, "You owe me, uncle."

Chapter Text

Ouch.

Head pounding, ringing in the ears.

Noises in my ears, my head, and my thoughts. From the moment I woke up from my bed to the unpleasant bathroom break. Missing my shoes and coat, I finally focus enough to understand my hands clinging onto a door frame. Only then gravity suddenly felt right. Oak flooring rapidly comes to my face before I’m stopped. Smaller hands and a body grab my shoulders. This angel guides me away from my fall and lifts me off my feet. 

I…gain a part of my brain back. Sanity. Right. The word is sanity. 

“Kursk?” My throat hurts. 

“No, not exactly.” Her not-so-unfamiliar giggle carries near my shoulder, “Let’s get you to the bed.” 

Blurry-eyed and confused, my feet shuffle. Half trying to move and partly letting whoever is helping do it for me. Touching fresh cotton blankets, I bury my face before flipping my body to breathe. Rubbing my eyes with whatever hand will do. 

Trying to get my bearings. I do see who helped me. 

“Avrora?” Now missing her futrzane and wearing a woolen sweater, “Hey…what. Where am I?” 

“My apartment,” despite her small frame, without difficulty, the small woman plucks me from the bed and props me close to her, “Here, drink this. It’s water.” 

Nodding and ungracefully chugging the glass, I hand it back to her. Fingers immediately go to my throbbing head, and rubbing the temples harshly with minor pangs of comfort. 

“I didn’t mean,” my stomach twists and pulls, “Ugh, I drank too much.” 

“Too fast,” Avrora pats my back and rubs my shoulders, “You recovered better,” she sniffs the air, “And you didn’t throw up. You’re so much like him.” 

“Blargh.” This is my best, smart-smart reply. 

“Heheheh~ so much like him.” Her grin warms my mood, “Take your time. I’ll have breakfast done in a few moments.” 

She points to her doorway, “Go down the hall and take a left to the living room. The kitchen and dining room are right there.” 

“Oki,” My head bobs, “What about the left…what happens if I go left?” 

“That will be the closet.” Avrora’s amusement is as beaming as my embarrassment, “Unless you want to get stuck in my coats and shoes, I recommend you stay here until you’re ready, okay?” 

“...okay.” 

Leaving through what I assumed was her bedroom, the kansen disappeared into the hall. 

Time stood still in my haze. The dry taste in my mouth brings me back, and I continue to rub my temples. Luckily, Avrora had more of what I needed because she left a cold water pitcher on the cupboard next to my empty cup. Headache clinging on to my brain, and wanting to wake up more, I pour a cup and a second with a quick gulp. 

Avrora’s voice calls out either ‘breakfast’ or ‘Alexei’ within what feels like ages. Either way, the memory of my mother kicks me into piloting my body. A rush of blood goes to my head, and I plant my feet. So far, I’m waking up from my hungover state as best as possible. 

I…keep a hand on the wall. Touching the doorway and feeling the hallway, some vague short-term thought tells me to turn right, and I do. 

Avrora’s space is tidy and neat. Plenty of soft cushions and furniture were arranged for more people. Pillows, a few blankets, and a coffee table. Simple is the easiest way to describe how she lives, and thinking about her bedroom, I realize she’s not one for living a complicated life. Someone I can respect. 

Her dining room is the same. Only enough chairs to surround the table and a pile of treats in the middle wrapped in plastic foil. 

“Thank you again, Avrora,” she comes back with a tray of food. Putting down a plate for me and one for myself, “You’re quick.” 

“I was already cooking when you woke up,” she explains while setting the table, “Go ahead. Food after a long day always keeps me happy.” 

Scrambled eggs, smoked sausage, and black bread, “Mm, this is delicious.” 

Avrora nods and swallows her first bite, “I’ve had plenty of friends here to keep company and someone who taught me when I first came into this world.” 

“Great teachers,” I rip off a piece of the bread and cut a portion of the sausage, “Wait…what do you mean, came into this world?”

Avrora knits her brow, “Um, you know? How we were brought into this world.”

“That’s what’s called being born, Avrora.” 

“We weren’t born the same way, silly,” she keeps looking at me like I’m being ridiculous, “We were literally brought into it. Pop. Like a firework…or, or-”

She opens her mouth and closes it, then opens it again, “You…you don’t know how we came to be? Do you?”

The thought never crossed my mind. 

“...No?” I scrape the plate harder than I wanted, “Not really.”

“Hmm, Kursk was brought up in a laboratory, so, of course, she didn’t tell you,” Avrora eyes her eggs, “Kansen are, in a way, born into this world via aid from a human. It has to be a special kind of human to do so, and all of us have appeared to our nation’s leading scientists through careful tests or…to the people themselves.” 

“I get it,” I swallow slowly, “This…this sounds like a state secret.” 

“It is,” she says casually. The ship-given life chews mindlessly before quizzically before raising an eyebrow at me, “Hmm? Do I have food on my face?” 

“No, no,” my spoon clatters on my plate, “I just, err, I think I could get in trouble if I knew this….”

“Really?” Avrora lowers her fork as if I was supposed to know, “She hasn’t told you?”

“No,” I shake my head to emphasize my point, “Kursk never said, and I never asked. I’d rather be left outside the gulags.”

“Bah, we wouldn’t do anything like that to you. Kursk would break you out anyways, and Gangut would join her too.” This earns a stark laugh from me, “Not once have you thought to ask where we come from?” 

“...No?” I picked up my utensil, “Am I supposed to?”

Avrora shakes her head, “No! No, nothing wrong with it. I’m surprised you can walk around us without ever questioning what we are. It's a common thing for humans to ask.”

She makes a good point, “I do know you ‘kansen’ come from ships. Does that count?” 

The white-haired woman holds her hand to her mouth, quickly chewing and swallowing, “Common knowledge, everyone knows. Even children. I’m asking whether you have ever thought of our existence. What brought us here and such.”

“Those cubes play a part,” Recalling correctly, a memory of my first moments with Kursk, “The idea was hard to wrap my head around. Ships are given life. Weapons of war are being thrown into existence. All these ‘Wisdom Cubes’ and new technology. The world has changed too much, and I find nature is easier to understand than what the world is trying to offer.”

“...am I in danger of being a public enemy?”

Avrora picks up her plate, leaning very closely. 

“You aren’t a regular Siberian woodsman.” She boops my nose, “Your uncle is also Admiral Rall. He would tell you eventually, and I was making it easier for him.” 

Huh. I shrug, “I’ve been sitting in a hotel room with Kursk for days with a TV remote and too much free time.” 

More and more we speak, the gears in my head grind forward. Questions do come up about how she’s so open with information. Avrora is one of the oldest ships to exist…actually-

“So,” I sipped the warm coffee, “How are you here, and the museum is back over there?”

“Oh, it’s a replica,” she answers quickly, “And yes, this isn’t the first time I’ve been asked. Other Parliament girls were curious too. I am, in fact, or was the ship.”

I didn’t know how to process….” Huh.”

Avrora continues thankfully, “I was one of the first, you know? I’ve been around for such a long time. Long before the others came and it was by a complete accident. A young village girl visiting my hull found a cube, thinking it was a toy. When I appeared, I was so confused. Everything was so fresh, so new, so cold.” 

“I can’t imagine,” it must be weird to suddenly have a body, “So, you were taken in by the government?”

“No,” She leans back, “I spent five years alone without them ever knowing I was here.”

“...what.” I swallow a bite of food. Digesting it slowly, “Where did you go?”

Her plate, now empty of its contents, is pushed away. Avrora’s hands grasp her mug; from what I can see, it is some fruit juice. 

“A cute little village nestled away in the countryside,” she states at the rim of her mug, “I followed the little girl. I was drawn to her not because she brought me to life but because she was an innocent child left wandering. For it all, she showed me there’s such a humble life to the grand Northern Parliament’s Revolution for the people.” 

“Where were her parents?” I clue in on a lack of specific details, “Sounds as if she was-”

“Correct, she was an orphan,” Avrora, for the first time, her smile looked forced. Melancholic, “Never made sense to me. This child was wandering around without supervision. Why did she come to the city? Why did she waltz onto my hull or hide from authorities?... I didn’t know she was trying to use my hull for warmth.”

“...the Old Union.” Bitterness is laced in her sweet-sounding voice, “Poverty. Such horrible poverty. I…I don’t think I need to explain. You, you know, yes?” 

“...yes.” I gulp; bad memories come and go, “Must’ve been hard for you.”

“We had each other,” Avrora brightens, the myriad of pain on her face easing away to her usual smile, “I made sure of it, and so is the village I left her in, my hometown.” 

Good. At least there are positives in the outcome, “And your home?” 

“Ah, ah,” she poked my nose again, “I told you my story; it would only be fair if you told me yours.”

Dread seeps in, tingling my fingers to the point I almost drop my fork again. Even then, I swallow the last forkful of eggs, “What do you want to know?” 

“Not much,” Avrora leans inward, “Were you always a hunter?” 

Memories. Old memories come up. Not the ones from when I spent so many years in service to a different time of my life. No, memories from a simple yet fond past. 

“The smell of leather,” I begin. Having finished my plate, my remaining meal is the cooled-down coffee mug, “Horses and the countryside. Fresh earth, cold ground, and the constant morning dew or dry arid air. I was raised on the steppe as a nomad long before I came to the city and came to know the civilized land.” 

The white-haired woman propped her head on her hands. She motions with her head to go on, and I gulp the coffee before I do. Tasting the subsided caffeine down to my throat before I ponder again. 

Shutting my eyes so I can immerse myself again, “Imagine it. Herdsmen fathering their families and flocking to the fields of the ever-rolling stretches of dirt. Sky goes on forever into the horizon with distant hills or mountains. Walk the hardened earth to taste the hollowed ground. I spent years with my family tending to the animals and helping my father.” 

The changes were quick and put an end to my childhood mind, “When…when my father brought me to civilization, he had my mother and I stay. He wanted other families to take up the herd and had me leave the life behind."

Avrora’s jaw is wide open, “Living on the land, that is amazing,” she taps the table, “Did you ever think about heading back? You seem so sure of living out in the wilderness.” 

“No,” My shoulders sag in acceptance, “The steppes are not safe to traverse alone, and I don’t know what happened to my father’s group. I chose the forests because food is plentiful, shelter is easier to build, and as a hunter, I felt I had a better skill in foraging and trapping than out there.” 

The familiar face of a stern-horned woman comes to my mind, “I don’t think I would’ve met Kursk if I had gone back with them. Besides, I’m happy with how things are now. Even if… I’m stuck in the city.” 

Avrora giggles and once more pokes my nose. I scrunch up after so many times she’s done so. 

“...ugh,” I cover my nose, “Come on, are you picking on me too?” 

“You’re too serious, and I like your expressions,” Avrora concedes by putting her hands up, “I’ll stop if you want me to. It’s fun getting you to smile too.” 

“Oh,” I touch my cheeks, “Was I…smiling?” 

“Plenty of times, which is healthy for someone with a hard lifestyle like yours,” she winks at me and gets up, “Thank you for your little talk; I think you’re going to fit in here for the time being.” 

“Kursk told you I would be staying here, huh,” I helped her with my plates, “And you’re welcome…err, as for today.” 

“Don’t worry, we planned it out,” the faucet turns on, and our dirty silverware is overcome with water, “I’ll show you around and give you a tour. Your uncle is again dealing with more work, running a base, of course, and I don’t mind showing you your new quarters.” 

“Alright,” I grab a cloth from what I assume is her cleanest one and help as best as possible. 

I do think of one more thing to ask. 

“Avrora?”

“Yes?”

“You’re very trusting for a stranger like me,” I look around her home, “Kursk’s words must hold a lot here.” 

“Alexei,” she beckons for me to look at her, serious in a way I didn’t think she could be, “We fight alongside each other daily. Kursk is as much an old friend as the rest of the fleet. They are my sisters, my comrades at arms, and your uncle has told me you're a good boy. Besides, this is our chance to interact with a person as different as you. Showing the others what they can fight for…it will give my comrades-at-arms a better resolve.” 

She, once again, touches my nose, “It's a request from an old ship like me…to at least see us for what we are. And maybe, you’ll understand what the Admiral has seen in us.”

Doubt is strong. Doubt is stronger than any sort of trust I have or even the idea of opening up to people. But if Kursk can do it, then I don’t see why I can’t. 

“I’ll do my best,” I do think of her words seriously, yet, hearing ‘good boy’ really takes the pride out of it, “Did he really?” 

Avrora drops her gaze and throws back a laugh. 

Moving around Avrora feels very different from Soyuz, more than Kursk. It felt more natural and friendly. Being around her is warm and welcoming, especially since I’m in her home. As I help around and prepare, I look around at her apartment. After clearing up my drunken stupor, I think I can tolerate this.

Can’t say the same for who I will be around next…

Chapter Text

The base is much larger than it appears on the outside. Hidden behind layers of walls and security provided by Northern Parliament forces. Automated machines aimed to strike at anyone attempting to break through, and the crew of humans assigned are used to keep people away. 

And these yellow…creatures who monitor the gates. 

I wished Avrora, Kursk, or anyone could show a smidge of confusion by their existence. Because quickly saying they are 'manjuu' and they 'operate most of the base' does little to explain anything. Ironic for girls who are ships since proof cannot always remove the strangeness. 

They have every type of facility conceivable. Essentials are here, the required places such as an armory, a barracks, a mess hall, and exercise grounds for physical training. Next…a sauna, one building distillery run by these feline creatures, and a shop stocked with more goods than most stores in Vladivostok. Similar quality, yet the quantity makes up for it. 

It does make me question why they need so much for a tiny population of kansen. Most of whom are off on their business or resting after a long mission on the water. Avrora's tour did remove the daunting task of navigating this place. However, it didn't make sense why they have so many dorms, most of which are closed, for our nation's small navy. 

It does bother me that she had to give the tour, no matter how friendly and helpful. 

My uncle should be the one giving me this tour. Having spent most of the day sleeping, I am twiddling my rifle and nervous around the yellow creatures…they look too much like chickens. Contrasting those fowl with self-aware salutes and distinct chirps. I almost understood one of them, who passed by me with a friendly wave. 

I…I really do question if I'm still in the Parliament. 

Knocking on the door, I call again, "Uncle- Admiral Rall. It's me, Alex." 

Hearing shuffling of papers and a scooting of a chair. Footsteps start and come close until it opens up the door. Showing not a big burly man, but instead a wild-haired grinning woman. 

"Comrade!" Boisterous and loud, she grabs my arms, "You're back!"  

"Uhh," The name does not click in time for me to lurch back, "Bye." 

"If you don't remember me, the name's Gangut-" And she beelines for the door, "Oh no, you don't!" 

Gangut yanks the doorknob and drags me inside. With her strength easily overcoming me, her friendliness fades, and the smile converts into a sinister smirk. I try to ignore the chill going through my spine. 

"So," she holds my arms, "Avoiding me, huh? And after having such a warm welcome? I'm almost insulted." 

"...no offense?" 

"Really?" She snorts, "Is that your apology?" 

Her grip is strong. Too strong for me. Serious in her tone and playful in her gaze, this Gangut is a direct person. No use fighting against her, especially since she's lifting me off the ground. 

"Sorry, I'm not used to…" There's no better word for it than- "Outgoing personalities. You're too much for my liking." 

A flash of surprise overcomes her, "Ah, if that's the case, then…here." 

The kansen gently puts me down and pats my shoulders. A part of her cheeriness returns, albeit subdued. Her distance makes me feel bad. 

"I like welcoming new comrades, including you. Being upfront is how I do things," she holds her hat and bows her head, "Forgive me for making you uncomfortable." 

"Not…your fault," Deeply swallowing back a nervous yelp, "I don't socialize. At all. I saw you yesterday and thought you were busy. I'm just…not used to this base or how friendly you girls are."

Dropping her dampened spirits, Gangut roars an instant guffaw, "Avrora did say you're shy. I didn't think you were  this  bad. Eh, I don't care either way. 

She flicks her hair. Wild as she is, "As they say, 'water under the bridge?'"

"Sure," I offer a hand in a sign of understanding, "I'm sorry for closing the door on you." 

"And I apologize for possibly making you uncomfortable," After accepting my handshake, Gangut backs up and goes behind a desk adjacent to my uncle's, "You don't…like physical contact?" 

"It's not the physical contact," I look away, "Hard to explain. People can be too loud for me. The quiet and calmness away from others have always been…soothing for me." 

She clicks her tongue, "No wonder Kursk likes you. The two of you are eerily alike." Gangut shoves a stack of papers into a drawer, "But unlike her…I think there's more here." 

I see her point to my waist, "At first, I thought you were excited to see me. As a civilian, though, I don't see why you carry so many weapons. You're more armed than a revolutionary on the battlefield. You're protected here." 

Ignoring her off-hand sexual comment, digging fingers in the belt, "Habit. Can't let go, and it always makes me feel safer no matter where I'm at." 

Then she says, "Even around Kursk?" 

Before I answer, I plop down on a cushioned seat. Facing Gangut, who sits casually from her leather armchair. Legs propped on a cleared tabletop. 

"She-" my voice is stuck in my throat, "Kursk kept me company. Being out in the Siberian wilderness is not the safest lifestyle. Sometimes I'm forced to fight for my life, and then the next moment, I wander aimlessly with no purpose. Nature has its way of cutting down the vulnerable and weary. Kursk was always there time after time." 

Gangut laughs while she rocks her chair. Seeing her in the almost lavish chair showcased the furnishings of this office. In the revelry, I never did take a chance to see the workspace itself. There are few decorations, which leaves me expecting from a commanding officer. Bookshelves line the walls with texts about war tactics and naval history. Next to her desk is my uncle's spot, with only more papers in messily organized piles. 

"Comrade Rall isn't any different either," Gangut stops rocking her chair, "When he became our officer, I was worried. We had so many failed officers that I was beginning to lose faith in ever getting a proper leader." 

It shouldn't surprise me, but it does, "Incompetence?" 

"They wouldn't live long," Gangut shrugs, smirking in a way she's thinking of somewhere else, "None of them fit the command for one reason or another. So many came in less capable than before. Until Soyuz took command in Moscow, we led ourselves - this disorganized rabble of proud warriors. Then your uncle came along and straightened out our fleet." 

"He was that good?" 

"He  is  excellent." She wags one bare finger, wearing modified gloves, "Organized our fleets, squashed dissent, streamlined supplies, and finally made it easier for us to fight back…but he was so cold." 

"...oh." 

"My thoughts exactly. You know him, large, imposing, and almost as big as a bear. Soyuz held such trust in him when most did not. When I finally met, I saw the fleet in a new fighting condition - under fearful respect. And I wanted to change it." 

"Trust…," I realize why she's the one left in the office when I can see Avrora being more capable, "You must've whipped my uncle up then." 

"No," she shakes her head, "Maybe there were some doubts. No one was standing up to him, and it was clear there had to be some truth to the worries of my sisters. Instead, I came to know him. Every order he gave out had a reason, every action had a deep purpose, and I saw a man who wanted the best for us. There was no need to force him, only thaw his attitude, and he's the man you see today." 

The war was bad for all of us. Gangut sees it in me. I can see it in her. While I remain somber, she lifts herself up. Planting her shoes back on the ground and leaning over the desk. A fire in her own eyes, the one I saw in him. 

"He was cold because the Parliament is cold." Gangut deepens her grin, "But the Parliament can be confident and strong. Laughing at the face of death countless times. And above all…he was alone. We thought…he thought, he lost everything. None of his family survived, and he had to form a new one." 

I am about to nod in agreement with what she said until her last sentence hits me. 

"Form a new one?" 

"The fleet," she waves to the air as if indicating the others outside the room, "He cried with us, bled with us, and laughed with us! And you being here is a good sign for him. He really needs someone like you in his life right now. And we need you too." 

Despite her optimism, Gangut's claim felt unbelievable. Disillusioned almost, "I don't have a use for the navy. My skills wouldn't be useful against the Sirens. What makes me different besides my uncle, who is leading one of the most powerful navies in the world." 

Gangut shakes her head again, "Really, he needs you. This is the happiest I've seen him. A revolution requires us to be united, not just the individuals. A strong man isn't without his support."

"I still don't understand where I come in." 

She shifts in her seat, Gangut's expression beams.

"I hope you don't take this the wrong way, comrade," she gets up, hands on the desk, "but this fight is not just for all of us. It's also yours. Never settle with the status quo; always seek to keep improving." 

Her words make more sense, "Are you saying I was too comfortable with my life?" 

"Yes, comrade," she pulls out a bottle of vodka, "You're hiding from the world. Even your uncle was the same way. A harsh tone can really hide a lot of loneliness. And who he is now shows he's become better. Can you say the same for yourself, young Alexei?" 

As she pours two shots for her, and I assume, I think about the stab at my own being. Change? Is that what I need? I came out here for safety and to avoid the biting cold of the frozen land. I long for the land. To be back out in the forest and away from all of this. I'm itching to shoot my rifle and skin an animal for a meal. 

Lately, I've been...different. 

"Ah, and the mind is thinking," Gangut holds a full shot, "Want one?" 

"Err," I eye the vodka, "No, I don't think so." 

"Suit yourself," the ship downed the second one, pouring what I assume is her third, "Tell me, comrade, why isn't that you don't like alcohol? Personal preference?" 

"Yes," I shake a little at the smell, "And I guess…to our earlier conversation, too many incompetent commanders. Everyone drinks, and I'd rather stay sober. Nothing against how you do things is what I'm saying." 

"Drunks, drinks, drunks~," Gangut sings the words, "Such a rare soul in the Parliament. And no matter, I accept all those under the революция!" 

"You're quite the woman, Gangut," She giggles, and I grin a little, "My uncle must hold you close." 

She stops gulping a shot, I believe her fourth one. Gangut tightens the lid over the bottle, then stashes it away in whatever compartment my uncle keeps his stock. Gangut is somehow more cheery, her cheeks rosy and her smile…off. 

"We…do," she shuffles papers on her desk, "I drink with him, he drinks with me, I let him stay at my place to rest if he doesn't want to make the trip to his apartment. Sure, you could say he trusts me a lot. Comrades. He trusts all of us." 

"And where does this leave you, then?" Gangut bristles, so I push to know more, "What is my uncle to you personally?"

"He's a brilliant leader." Gangut furrows her brow, "I've mentioned that, and he's changed." 

"True," I admit, "And you've mentioned his physical presence, as menacing as he can appear. You must've seen something in him that made you look past it." 

Gangut reacts to it stronger than I am ready for and nods eagerly, "I did! He was always so caring in the quiet moments, always believed in pushing us to our greatest, and was there to support us in our worst times. Comrade Rall, he's a man I can adore and follow to my heart's content." 

Saying this somehow strangely strikes her. As if I turned into some new-found monstrosity, Gangut's expression grows large. What I assume is her usual smile have all faded to shock. 

"This can't be." She licks her lips, "...I…It took me this long to understand."

"Uh." I don't understand what she means, "What do you mean?"

"Alexei!" She points at me, her face even more red, "Tell me what I just said! I need to hear it from someone else's lips!" 

I pause, summarizing what she said, " You adore my uncle and seem to like him a lot more than you think, Gangut." 

"My  exact  words, not a paraphrase!" 

"Erm," I clear my throat, "I quote, 'He's a man I can adore and follow to my heart's content.'?"

Gangut bites the bottom of her lip and scoots her chair back, "Alright, I think it's time you go, comrade. Off to wander to another part of this port, I presume." 

"Wait, no-" She lifts me so effortlessly, "Huh?" 

She's already grabbing me from my seat and pushing me towards the door. "Go, comrade, I have much thinking and work that needs to be done…you have made me realize a hidden truth about myself." 

"...I did?" I hang uselessly in her grip. This kansen.

"And I need to explore that idea alone!" She returns with her usual expression. Although, I can tell it's more…enthusiastic. Gangut lets go and throws her arms out, "Comrade, I won't ask again if you don't…but can I hug you? A powerful one?" 

Seeing as Gangut has been nothing but friendly, and after being around Avrora and Kursk, I admit one thing- 

"Sure," I open myself up, "Don't sq- ach!" 

-is that I'm starting to like their hugs.

Avrora's is gentle and motherly, almost like my late grandmother. Gangut, however, hugs hard. And her embrace is incredibly warm. And suffocating. Help. 

She must've heard my wheezing as Gangut drops me carefully, "Thank you for indulging me, Comrade Alexei!" She salutes me proudly, "This talk has been fulfilling!" 

Then she…closes the door on me. In this whirlwind of wildness, laughter, and alcohol, I completely forgot what brought me to my uncle's office in the first place. Gangut is…more than a person, and she's made me realize no matter my reservations about them - there will be strong personalities on this base I'll have to contend with. 

"Still," I think aloud, "What was I here for again?"

Chapter Text

Snow disperses under the paws of the young fox. It sniffs the air and points its ears in each direction. The little animal is cautious and proactive in scouting the clearing. Finding no danger, the fox swipes the snow away to find a frozen plant. 

I wait behind the bushes hiding my position. This base had a large field obscured by the pillars of watchtowers and chain link fences. Open areas showed it was once an attempt at farmland, now overgrown with wide spaces. 

There's no doubt the fox is searching for food. Lack of parents, few predators, and thin foliage gave little coverage. Odd to see a fox cub without its parents. 

As it digs, I keep the scope trained and my finger off the trigger. There's no point in shooting such a small game and little use for a juvenile. I wasn't planning on hunting either or expected a stroll.

Maybe I can follow it to find others for a little bit of adventure-

"Don't hurt him!" 

"Gah!" 

My rifle bolts into my shoulder, and I feel the snow on my face. Heat, pain, and bruising pull me into a bout of agony. I swing the barrel around directly at where the noise came from, wildly waving at the source. 

There. 

There it is.

Pulling the bolt is all I need. 

Target sighted. 

Aim, I can make the shot through the-

Wrapped around her neck is a fuzzy scarf, and hanging below is a cross necklace. 

No, no, no. 

Breathe, Alex. 

Breathe.

Think about this. Think about it.

My jaw throbs through the ringing in my ears. Each finger I have around my rifle taps and flexes. I waver, lightheaded, and drool over dry lips. A gasp from my target narrows my sight.

Don't shoot. Don't shoot. It's a woman. An unarm-

Bestial heads rumble violently. With their miniaturized turrets ready, the clicking from their aim forces me to drop my gun. Holding my hands up high. 

"Wait, wait, wait!" The woman pushes them away, having shot up, "Boys! Stop! Don't shoot! You'll kill him!" 

“прекратить! Пожалуйста, остановите,” She shouts at them, “Listen you two! Geez!” 

The woman pats snow off herself and snaps her fingers. Both machines vanish from existence to wherever they go. Still frantic, the kansen helps me up to my feet. Patting my back, my shoulders, and my pants of snow. 

"I'm sorry!" Her hands wave wildly at me, "You had your rifle-and-and- you were pointing it at my fox friend! I didn't want you to shoot him!" 

The pain in my shoulder has already gone away. The initial thought to register is her eyes. Their mismatched colors. 

"…I wasn't going to," Lips dry, I said, "I'm… I'm Alexei." 

"I-" The woman's brow widen, "No way, you're t-the Admiral's nephew?" 

"Yeah," Rotating my shoulder, sour and stiff. Okay, I'm lying, the recoil really hurts. I suck it up for her sake because the cold is already numbing the pain. 

"Ach," Feeling my heartbeat, I bend to search for my gun, "No, I'm really sorry. This is my fault. I was curious about the base's open fields and got distracted…and don't call me mister. Alexei is fine, miss…?" 

"Milwaukee!" She spouts off. I can tell she's still buzzed by our encounter," I mean, Murmansk! I'm Murmansk, sir!" 

"I'm not your officer either. No need for sir," Having found my rifle, I lowered it ultimately. Better to show I mean peace so I don't incur the wrath of those strange machines.

"Alexei," I sling the rifle over my not-so-bruised shoulder, "Alexei. Or comrade. Except, based on your first name, I think you're not from the Northern Parliament." 

"N-no! Yes!" Milwaukee, or Murmansk, which is easier to call her, froze solid, "… I'm not. Please don't send me home. I love it here." 

Great, she's scared. Digging my fingers through my hair, I'll have to be direct. Kursk mentioned the girls all mean well, and here is someone who came across an armed gunman. Also, I need to calm her down. That shot may have alerted others in the base. And before it happens, I need to deal with my immediate problem - I have a potentially crying woman in my midst. 

"Okay," Going up to Murmansk, I hold her shoulders as gently as possible, "I'm not going to send you home. As if I can…uh." 

She looks at me and up to my face. Being relatively short in stature. Murmansk rubs her face with her sleeves and tries to put on a happier smile. Ruined by our frightful encounter, this trip leaves a twist in my gut. Looking at the ground, her sad expression melts immediately when she bends to my feet. 

"What-"

"No! Bad little fox! Don't bite him!" Eyes down to my feet, there is the same fox from earlier. Nibbling away at my pant leg, "You brought everyone with you."  

I've been bitten by so many animals at this rate I didn't feel his tiny teeth try to dig through my reinforced clothes. In fact, there's a bunch of small animals surrounding me. And I mean me.

Woodland creatures from around the field. A couple more foxes, rabbits, and several dozen birds in the trees nearby. None of them look friendly. Besides' Kursk's owl perched on a branch watching the birds with contempt. He, who I assumed stopped by land to check on me, turns his bulging eyes.  

I make eye contact with the bird. I know too well the sneaky owl will report to its master about my exploits. Damn owl. 

Murmansk is giggling. Her little animal friends came to her rescue, and many of them were hopping on her. Rabbits bounce up to her leg, and the foxes stay close - never breaking their eyes from me. She picks up one of them without difficulty.

"I'm okay," Murmansk's earlier worry is absent, "Don't worry, he's not going to hurt me." 

"Y-yeah," I gulp. I don't like the glare the little fox is giving me, "You speak animal?"

"No, silly, it-" Murmansk strokes its tail, "Oh! Yes! I can understand them."

"I'm guessing they think I'm a monster then…"

"No, not really, well, yes, but," She curses mildly in English, "You're okay! I know you're a hunter, and it's part of your life, but we don't hunt animals on base!" 

"I wasn't trying to," I rub my neck nervously. Pulling my hand out immediately when I felt something warm on my neck. That's bird shit. Great. "...I wanted to see what's here and…I needed to get away from the base itself. I don't like being around so many buildings." 

"Really? Is that a common thing for all Siberians?" Murmansk asks, gently stroking the little fox in her arms, "It would make sense if you would come out here. A little grove from the hubbub of life. I got scared for my little friends when I saw the rifle." 

"Little friends," I finally see tufts from the back of her leg. Two black and white tails hang from behind her. 

Murmansk's fox friend still won't remove its gaze from me. Slender fingers rub its hostility away by patting the fur. Petting the creature with gentle strokes around its neck and head. Calmness drains the fox, and it wags its little tail. 

Seeing the danger fade, the other creatures leave, with some of them keeping a fair distance. I understand Murmansk is their caretaker of a kind. 

"I guess you don't remember me from our little party," Murmansk starts, having calmed down. Now sitting on the snow while cradling the fox in her lap, "It goes to show I didn't remember you." 

"There was a lot of drinking. Both of us were wasted," a passing glimpse to a more lively part of that day flashes, "You're the one who was dancing on the table."

"Fufufuf~I think so! Avrora did wake me up on the ground." Her face, hidden behind a sleeve, reddens, "I must've been embarrassing." 

Right, a ship falling off a table. The thought gets me to snort, "Not at all. It was a fun night, from what I can recall."

Getting comfortable on the ground, I lean back on my hands to relax. My nerves are shot, and my arms are still shaking. 

"Come here," Murmansk pats her friend, "Petting him may warm you up. He won't bite!"

"He did bite me," I remind her, pointing to my leg. The fox breaks out of its loving trance and barks at me, "I don't think he would want me to." 

"Phooey," Murmansk deflates visibly. Holding the fox up to her face, she eyes it intently, "My little friend, we won't be doing that again, shall we?~" 

The speed of the fox's head bobbing up and down matched her quick return to happy patting. 

"The animals really like you," the birds above, loyal as they are, keep watching, "Is this a sanctuary for them?" 

"Unofficially. The Admiral put the walls up even if there's nothing on paper declaring it," She sighs, "Hunters used to come too close to the base. Food was rationed because of the constant Siren attacks. People from the city hunted on the outskirts but didn't know how to restrain themselves. And it got bad. Lots of parents didn't come back to their nests. Many little ones wandered around searching for their own meals. Until they couldn't." 

A finger scratches the back of one of the fox's ears. There's a hole in it, "I found some, then many more, and kept caring for them. They're cuties~." 

Murmansk whistles to the birds. They whistle back in quick communication. She commands them in her own way, leading to the flight of the flock. Kursk's owl stays behind until the last crow and raven reach the skies. Once they do, the pet from my girlfriend leaves. Heading back towards the ocean and whatever perch it stays in. 

"Besides, I think there's something else to it," Murmansk sees off the owl, "She really cares about you." 

"You mean Kursk thinks I can't take care of myself," I lick my lips dryly, "Earlier proves I can't be left alone for my own good."

"No, I think it's because she trusts you so much. And maybe…eh, maybe." She trails off.

"And? Maybe what?"

Murmansk puts down the fox. It nudges at her hands for one more rub. Listening to the girl's command, the animal scurries back to where it came from over a mound and through a bush. Instantly absorbed in the background. 

"She never leaves her owl alone. Kursk's owl is always by her side," Murmansk starts speaking. Snow shuffles underneath her as she gets comfortable, "It's weird. She's always so distant from us, yet she's a different person when it comes to her owl." 

"Kursk has full conversations about anything," I snorted loudly. A memory of when I first caught her talking to him surfaced, "When she thinks she's alone."

"It's so adorable!" Murmansk squeals, "I used to think Kursk was so cold and unfeeling. Being around her for so long, I think she's just a personable girl! You know, someone who needs to be alone with someone and gets really tired when around many people for too long." 

I can relate. "Yeah." 

"Mhmm," the young girl, or older ship - take your pick, pull up her legs, "You know, earlier… I'm really sorry for scaring you. I never had such a reaction from someone like that."

"Yeah." I suddenly want to get up and leave, "I overreacted. You're fine." 

"Well, I can't get rid of this feeling like I did something wrong," Murmansk gulps visibly and audibly, "I really scared you, didn't I?" 

She won't drop the topic. Fine. 

I scoot closer to look at her better, "Murmansk, it is fine. I let my jitters get the best of me. My rifle was in my hands, and you were looking for a friend. A courageous thing for you to do. But…” 

She is a kansen. They are different kinds of robust and resilient compared to us normal humans. A bullet wouldn't have done anything to her from a rifle like mine. If she were any kind of girl than what she is now, this could have gone in a horrible direction. Still, I'm compelled to say it lest it bothers my conscience. 

"Apology accepted," She extends her hand. Murmansk isn't wearing gloves, "Water under the bridge, all things behind us?"

I smile, "Sure, water under the bridge." 

And we shake on it, "You know, to show my good faith. I promise I won't hunt here. Ever. Or the surrounding city. For your friends' sake." 

"Really?" Murmansk gasps, "Don't you like to hunt? I mean, you could still go outside the port. You do this kind of thing, right? I don't want to stop you or anything."

"And you went out of your way to stop me. It's only fair." I get up and stretch. Stars swirl in my vision momentarily, "Besides, I don't kill young animals. It's not right. They can grow stronger and bigger and make more of their own. You have food here, so I can get by." 

Murmansk comes at me quicker than I can see. And as if I knew, my arms were wide open for the hug. Her head reaches below my neck. Maneuvering my head around her hat, I return the hug. 

"You know," she breaks away, smiling like all the other girls before her. A friendly, gentle kind, a gesture each of the kansen does that is so strangely soothing and calming, "You know, Alexei. If and when I must leave, I want someone to watch over my little ones." 

"The animals?" 

"Yes, silly~." With her fingers in her mouth, she whistles. From out of the snow, a familiar animal pops its head out. The little fox.

"Uh, Murmansk." The fox hops out and is in a lowered position, "I don't think that's a friendly gesture." 

"Let him come to you." She holds her chin, "Okay, you may be right. Hang on."

She hugs my arm in a display of affection? I think? 

"Murmansk?" 

"I don't want him to feel scared around you," Gentle and calm, she nudges me, "And if you're going to be here, I would rather you try to be friendly. You did say you wouldn't hunt, so you could show them you're not a threat."

"Right." 

This little fox crawls up to an arm's length. Ever cautious, the fox rears its head back. Moving closer to Murmansk. Instead, she motions for it to come to me.

"It's okay." She crouches, and I follow suit, "He's safe. Go on." 

"Do what?"

"Pet him! Like I said earlier! He won't bite."

"But-"

She nudges my side again, this time more forcefully. 

"Okay, okay, fine." I make myself as small as possible. Being a large guy, my posture was uncomfortable and awkward even when on my knees. Thinking of any way to get him to budge, thinking of Murmansk, I go for a simple gesture. So, I extend a hand.

Come on. I'm right here. 

My fingers are literally hovering over its head.

"Uh, Murmansk?" Words fail once again, "So what?"

"You got this!" She gives me a thumbs up, "Pet him! He's right there!" 

I gulp, "Hello," I swallow again, keeping my voice low, "Hey." 

The fox crawls back briefly. Obviously nervous, I can see its head shrink more. Cupping my hand again, I open-pawed it, lowering it to its ear. In an act I significantly give thanks, the fox nudges its head to my palm. Licking my wrist during the whole process. 

"Told you, fufufu~!" She giggles as I pick it up, "He likes you!" 

"Huh," He's so light. So fluffy. 

"This is," he nudges into my lap, "This is fine."

"Aww~!" Murmansk hops to us, "See, it's not that hard! It's like owning a pet."

"Sure, "I rub the fox's head. Avoiding the ear with a hole, "Okay, this is really different."

I'm so used to killing them and eating them. Having such a young one be so is odd. As if she trained him. Kansen can do more than just be superhuman beings and people. They can really tame the wild if they so wish. 

I may get used to this place…Addicted maybe. Maybe. 

Then he bites my finger.

"Ow!" 

"...We don't have to get involved."

Belorossiya turns her head, "Sir?" 

Admiral Rall puts away his pistol, "My nephew's rifle must've gone off by mistake. Murmansk is a smart girl, and she can handle him."

"Mm, that is all," Gremyashchy shrugs, the little destroyer, "I'm going back to bed."

"Make sure you tell Tashkent to stop by my office," the Admiral pats the destroyer's head, who blushes and salutes. Leaving the two alone as Belorossiya disbands her rigging. Her arms crossed, she keeps looking over the hill. 

"What's on your mind, Belo?" The officer said, "They'll be fine. I promise you."

"Mhm," Belorossiya shrugs, "Excuse me for my weariness, sir. I read his file. He's not without a colorful history."

"Compared to me, he's an angel," The Admiral chuckles, his grin transforming into a grimace, "Give it more time. He'll come around. Just like Kursk." 

"I'm beginning to wonder if those benefits you described to this are worth as you said," Belorossiya clicks her tongue, "He's not a very influential individual in the media. He's anti-social. And I don't see how talking to him will bridge relations with us and the army." 

"But he was a known war hero and an icon among the officers," the Admiral scratches his beard, "Few know of my familial connection to him, and even if they did, we look nothing alike. The old dogs at the Kremlin believe this can placate the hardliners and may boost morale." 

Belorossiya rolls her eyes, "Officially speaking, unofficially, you have baser selfish reasons."

The officer laughs heartily, throwing back his head, "He's my nephew! My family." 

The battleship snorts, "Certainly, I have not doubted your judgment. Just entertaining the details," Belorossiya drops her brooding frown for a smug grin, "I'll return to my tasks. Good luck on your date with Gangut tonight~!" 

"Who told you-"

Chapter Text

Thursday. 

In these five days, I have met colorful people. Avrora, the caring, motherly figure. Gangut is a boisterous wildfire with the most potent liver in the world. Murmansk is a positively friendly force that can communicate with animals. I'm assuming a lot by the last revelation. How such a thing is possible is beyond my capacity to understand and my level of serious concern. Animal speech must sound different to their ears.

I wonder if that's how Kursk talks to her owl…

Based on how my interactions usually go, I'm bound to meet another new face. And today, I am possessed by an intense curiosity to seek one out myself. Venturing into a part of the port I've only been to once, the harbor itself.  

Attached to the base, the seaside bustles wildly with ships. Hulls, the bodies of the kansen, remain motionless for repairs or rest. More of those yellow birds wander around in their miniature uniforms. I tell myself I'm used to their presence, but when one waves back at me from where I'm sitting, I wave quickly with a half-grin. 

There is one general rule I learned on my fourth day. Wherever I travel, kansen are performing activities that are mundane to them. Kursk, by her account, is relatively tame in what she does. I disagree with such a declaration since she likes hunting for a game barehanded and using an owl to communicate. Because their lives resemble anything normal for an average Northerner. 

*Boom* 

Today at the harbor, one specific kansen is hard at work firing at a range. Plumes of smoke erupt, followed by a burst of air. To preserve my hearing, my body is nestled in a stone staircase. Using the earplugs, my uncle gave me in case I got too close. According to the known 'squishiness' of man, I am highly motivated to avoid what she's doing over there. 

*Boom*

Tall and about the same height as me, she's one of the rare kansen with her arms through her overcoat. Hugging her body closely in a neatly button-up fashion. Calm in her shots and stoic in her demeanor, through deep breaths, she reloads her guns and aims. Bursts of energetic rounds fly through the air and land perfectly on a target. A dummy version of a Siren ship. 

*Boom*

More blasts followed by brief moments of pause. I peek over only when the pounding pauses enough. In between shots, this kansen jots down hasty scribblings on a clipboard. Occasionally murmuring to herself and then picking at her rigging's bolts. 

"Neat, huh?" 

I first stare into the long white leggings up the stairs behind me. Quickly looking up, there's another kansen holding a tray covered in foil. I scoot over to let her sit by me. 

"Yeah," I finally say, sparing one more glance at her, "Volga, right?" 

"Mhmm," the kansen, with her hands covered in mittens, puts the tray down next to her, "Are you having a good morning, Comrade Alexei?" 

"Yeah," I repeat, "I was curious about who I'll find out here and came across the firing range." 

"She's a trooper~." The shots ring out again before she speaks again, "Rossiya likes to keep herself on her toes. Always practicing and honing her skills in preparation for the next battle." 

She removes her mittens, "It's why I brought some treats from the kitchen~! I was hoping she would be done by now." 

Checking on the random kansen's progress, she left the field to reload at a station behind her. Propping her guns while reading carefully through her notes. Rossiya checks off her list and turns back around. She is returning to her previous spot for more rounds to be launched. 

"Could I try?" I ask Volga, pointing at her tray, "Smells really good." 

"Sure!" She puts on her mitten and gingerly unravels the foil. The aluminum separates to show the warm and steaming brown disks. Sniffing the oncoming aroma, my stomach gurgles. I haven't had such a treat in a long time. 

"Wow…syrniki," I said. Licking my lips to stop the drool from dripping, "May I?" 

"Here~!" Having brought out a clean cloth, she hands me a couple, "I made plenty! Have as much as you want." 

"Thank you," I take another handful and pick up the first bite. Already feeling the heat, I ignore it to satiate my hunger. The savory taste of bread and cheese sink into my mouth. Closing my eyes for goodness, I chew quickly through my first one. 

Giggling and barely nibbling on her own, I look over to see Volga's blushing smile. 

"What? It's delicious. You're an amazing cook." 

"I try, thank you," Volga bites into her own and chews slowly, "I like to cook when I can." 

"Mmm," I swallow the last bite. Letting it warm my stomach and fill my belly. Chewing quickly through each disk. 

"Wow, Alexei," Volga's head arches back, "You eat as if you haven't had food before." 

"Only what I need." I wipe my face. "This city life is starting to make me feel too soft."

"Or maybe it helps you live more, no?" Volga suggests, handing me two more, "You can't be starving out there. Are you?" 

"Sometimes," I begin my sixth one. Pausing to see her shock, "Yes, it does happen. I am fibbing a little by saying I 'starve.' There are lean months where I only have one meal a day to get through a season. Farming is difficult, as you know, and I traveled far to fish. Always keep supplies from the cities if there is nothing to catch." 

The kansen nods, grimacing, "Hard living. I can't imagine living like that willingly when you know you can live elsewhere." 

She has a point. "Sure, rural life is not for everyone. It's the challenge I like." I look at what is perhaps my eighth, my stomach still rumbling. 

"I've heard stories from what Kursk makes and eats out there," Volga mentions, "She's brought back a few wild animals to cook at the mess hall. Many of those meals were always delicious and filling. Surely, you can prepare yourself a good meal from it." 

"I can, yes, it's very possible," Ideas flash through my head, "I've gathered berries before and foraged for other plants to add tastes. Meat is hard to stomach when you have nothing to flavor it, so I like to add garlic. It's the only plant I can grow outside." 

"Garlic, huh?" Volga ponders aloud, "We have plenty of it back in the kitchen. Maybe you can share a few with me?" 

"We can have dinner if you'd like. Maybe invite her," I motion to where Rossiya is supposed to be. Instead, teleporting out of nowhere, Rossiya emerges in front of us. Intensely eyeing the remaining food next to Volga. 

"Hey, Rossiya!" Volga greets her, almost expecting her impossibly quiet appearance, "How's today's practice?"

"Average. Expected results, nothing new, and everything is in order. Somehow ended up with a new screw," she held up a bolt between her fingers, "I don't know how this keeps happening to me…" 

"Seriously, I think you're adding bolts to your rigging," Volga suggests, "You could ask the Admiral to inspect it again." 

"Perhaps," She looms, finally making eye contact with me, "Captain."

"Ross-"

For the love of-

"Keep it to Alexei." Biting my tongue. "I prefer my civilian status more." 

"Then I will be mindful for the future," to my relief, she moves on, still hovering over us. Her eyes wander towards Volga's tray, "I finished training, and I'm, err, curious to see. Uh, what do you have there?" 

"Syrniki," Volga happily answers in a welcoming tone. Picking up the tray and opening it, "Would you like some?" 

"Please!" Rossiya reaches over then retracts, "I uh, yes, please. Thank you." 

Volga giggles and turns to me, "So, on food. What do you usually eat when you're out there? It can't be just cooked venison and roasted veggies."

"You get used to the plain food when you're hungry. After being away from the wild for so long, I didn't know the family's recipes. Taste never mattered until one summer," memories of the oddly warm year tingled my skin, "A traveling group of tourists camped near my usual hunting spot and helped me with a big haul. An older gentleman in their group, a former Royal Navy chef, taught me interesting ways to cook."

The face of the man has faded, but his large hands and bushy bears remain. They were young people, barely past their teens heading to the west. Rare to see tourists like them these days. 

"Since then, I season my food with whatever and whenever possible." 

"The hunter's life leaves a lot to desire once necessities are handled," Rossiya says, her hat showing off more of her snow-colored hair, "Tell me, how long have you lived out there?" 

"Many years." Counting my fingers while trying to sum up the time, "Roughly eight? It was after I left the army when my conscription was up."

"Дерьмо," Rossiya says blankly, then proceeds to bite off what's left of her serving. "Being alone, I can see the appeal, yet the loneliness?"

"Sometimes," if I'm completely honest, "After a while, you grow used to it."

Volga blinks rapidly, "The isolation must have been hard. You must've visited cities, a town, or anything in such a time." 

I swallow my last snack. Savory the taste before talking, "I wasn't a complete hermit. I made trips when I could." 

Rossiya then asks the most profound question I never considered, "What about family?" 

Family. What family? There was nothing for me back home in the west where most of Parliament lies in their festering plenty. No one left from my close friends and comrades in the outlying border states. Everyone I knew has either faded from my memory or lost to the knocks of war. Uncle Rall lives, sure, but it is a solace amid a blank blizzard of the motherland. 

When neither spoke up, I did the best thing I could. I shrug my shoulders and hold my hands up in defeat. There isn't a good answer to such a pointed question. Words do need to remove this impending weight in my gut. 

"When my service was up, I took my papers and walked." I gaze quickly at the harbor's cold shores, "Uncle Rall, your Admiral, is about what's left."

"Interesting, "Rossiya starts slowly, thankfully helping me pivot from my obvious mistake in life, "Many men would strike it in the frontiers, so it makes sense you would. I assume you eventually emerged among the nomadic people."

"I did. We occasionally contact each other but I keep to myself. They're usually the ones I follow when the weather worsens. The we come to the bigger cities for my safety," Namely now. Although it's a unique case for several reasons, namely in the shape of a beautiful partner. Rossiya may have read my mind, or this is a terrible coincidence. Because her uncanny ability to strike with questions must be deliberate because-

"I'm deeply fascinated to know," Rossiya leans against a railing, "A hunter like you must have stories." 

This broke Volga from her stupor, "Yes! How about a hunting story! You must have a thrilling trip! Maybe an animal that was difficult to catch?" 

Rossiya holds up a finger, "What about how you met Kursk?" 

"Ohhh!" Volga's interest is intensely piqued, "I want to hear!" 

"Eh," my neck feels too warm, "I did tell Avrora…alright, fine." 

Clearing my throat, I think of a better way to summarize this. Fresh from my last retelling to Avrora during my time with her, I recall at least the critical parts of my memory. 

"From what I know…" 

The rabbit twitched one more time. One leg in the air and the other patting the ground. Thumping the snow until each motion ceased to a dying end. Despite getting an apparent hit piercing the neck, it had the willpower to crawl before finally resting evermore. 

I'm sloppy. This is my only catch. 

Three rabbits, and I could only kill one. Nevertheless, I reach down and begin preparing it for my trek back. Reading the footprints around it, I see the leftover trails of his little friends. Scattering themselves in three different directions-

No. 

There shouldn't be three sets of footprints. I killed one. 

Attaching the rabbit to my belt, I crawl to the third footprint. Studying the curious tracks closely with my gloves and removing my goggles. Their size is more significant. Too large for rabbits. Each dash against the ground closely resembled a specific animal I made sure wasn't in this area before my hunt today. 

A wolf. Or some large wolf.

I could trail it. Follow the path up and see where it leads to. Instead, I decided against the notion the moment the scar on my face stings. Reminding me quickly of the last time I chased after a predator. In a brilliant display of reaction and memory of the horrible situation, I pick myself up from the ground. 

Sticks cracked behind me, and I jumped up. Swinging around the barrel, I aimed up. 

There. Quietly sitting on a tree above me is an eerie owl. Large eyes gaze around and then down to me. I trace below to see if it may have dropped prey or caused snow to fall. Seeing nothing amiss about it, I continue watching the bird. 

By the decision and thinking of the fowl itself, the bird opened its wings and flapped away. Unlike other animals, it did not disappear into the thicket or the sky for greener pastures. Wind pushes around me oddly, which is my first sign there is something wrong. 

This strange creature, it switches trees. The owl never leaves my presence, only keeping its large head on me. Fixing itself above where I killed the rabbit. Staring hauntingly at the spot of the extra animal steps. This is my second and possibly last sign. 

Hooting, the owl's tone is rumbling. As if threatening me as I continue pointing my rifle. I don't think it will attack me or try to grab my kill. The owl itself isn't a danger, only the behavior which makes me worry. Why is it so focused on me? 

Deep down, dread is tightly pulling wraps around my gut. Pulling back my finger from the trigger since it appeared. The way it looked at me, it was familiar with how it watched. 

The air. The movement. How I turned my head. 

I turned my head in the opposite direction of the bird. 

Or almost. A heavy metallic weight slams the back of my head.

"She knocked me to the ground and I passed out." Their looks of utter surprise amused me, "When I came to, I was being hoisted onto a tree branch. Told me I was poaching on military land, which was the first time I realized my hunting grounds were no longer public property. She would only leave me off on a warning unless I show her other hunting grounds which is how I got to know her." 

Rossiya snaps her fingers, realizing, "Ah, you remind me! We bought land to build a depot up north early in the war…you were the hunter we received reports on that was evading game wardens." 

Their looks of sympathy turned immediately into accusatory skeptical faces. I'm got red handed. Or gloved handed. 

"Hey, okay, they never claimed to be game wardens," I acted as innocently as possible. And, of course, they didn't believe me, "Alright. Okay, I did do it on purpose. I needed the food that month, and you know how inconsistent the Parliament can be with its rules." 

"And you needed to be detained for breaking them," the white-haired sister of Soyuz flatly says, "We must preserve our land as well, regardless of the lifestyle." 

Coming to my defense, Volga agrees with me, "Well, he's right, you know, Rossiya. If your timeframe of meeting her is true, I think this was before the major laws were finally rehauled. You can't fault him for not knowing. Alexei did live out in the woods for who knows how long." 

"Eight years," I shared a look when I accidentally synced my response with Rossiya. 

Volga rolls her eyes, "Okay, the point is…you became friends with Kursk because of this?" She points to my rifle, "Hmm, I guess. You really do look gruff looking, Alexei. I would've thought you were a devious criminal if I saw you kill a rabbit on government land!" 

Rossiya reaches over and conks her head with a light slap, "Volga, that was rude." 

"Hey, hey. Volga has a point," I rub my face, already growing back a stubble, "I'm not the dashing young man." 

"I mean, you aren't terrible looking!" Volga tries to apologize, cowering from Rossiya, "Okay, okay! He's kind of cute! I didn't want to say that about a claimed man! But what else do you want me to say?" 

Rossiya's words died on her lips to a seriously audible gurgling sound. Loud and rambunctious, we stare at her. Specifically, the part of the kansen, which is her grumbling stomach. 

"Uh," her exterior deflates, "I, uh…I-training and you know."

"Good timing, Alexei!" Volga perks up, "How about you show me that recipe! I bet Rossiya would enjoy it."  

"Perfect," I grin. Turning to Rossiya, staring into space in meek silence, "I can cook you some too, if you would like, Rossiya." 

Her eyes bounce back to me, "I don't want to bother you."

I get up and wipe my hands on my pants. Cracking my knuckles and stretching. 

"Hey, you're the one who's obviously still hungry, and I don't mind preparing something after discussing food for so long," My lips curl into an enormous smile. "It's my treat."

Chapter Text

Rain pours nonstop.

Everything outside and inside the cracked building, mildew-ridden structures. Roofless rooms and pillars of rubble act as evidence of enemy and allied artillery. Rubble and broken furniture keep me company in the endless storms of water.

“Hello? Cap? Hey, can you hear me?”

I rub my shoulder. My spotter punched my shoulder. The young kid may be skinny, but he can hit hard.

“Yes?”

“Ah, so you haven’t gone to hell yet,” he shakes his head, water dripping from his chin, “Three hours of sleep isn’t nearly enough.”

“Four. Not three.” I rub my clothes underneath my body armor to unstick them from my skin, “Disgusting weather. Can’t sleep anywhere in this damned city.”

I look through my scope. Our target for the past few weeks had been the rebel’s camp in the central part of the abandoned Parliament city. A rag-tag mix of militia reinforced breakaway units from the army and air force. As for this group we’ve been tracking, their civilian clothes and lack of actual armor show this is the militia.

Orders keep us from firing on them. The reason for it is another round of ceasefire and hoping to settle the score with the defectors finally. Honestly, I didn’t mind the leadership’s orders the first time.

“You said it, comrade,” my spotter mutters. With a click of his binoculars, he whispers, “Up the road. Three o’clock.”

I am scouring the streets, starting with a concrete and water mixing pit. Through the scope, I scan the husks of buildings for any movement. The target sighted—bright white clothes in the middle of a gray area, carrying a brown basket. Sighing in relief, I observe the strange sight. Why would someone be wearing such obvious-

“Murmansk?” I pull back from the scope, “Hey, how the hell are the kansen out here? She’s far from any port.”

“Huh?” My spotter scans the group, “What the hell are you talking about? They’re idiotic locals, stubborn dumbasses who keep getting themselves killed. Maybe you should give them a warning shot to get the hell out of the way…”

“Shut up, don’t ever mention that again,” I spit towards his direction, “But you’re right, I don’t know what the hell they’re doing…”

No. I remember this. These aren’t the same people from that day. It wasn’t supposed to be a kansen standing around minding her business in the worst place possible. It was an older man and his wife.

“Пиздец,” Murmansk is blissfully unaware of the place she’s casually strolling through. The same little fox from the forest walks casually near her feet. Ignoring the body rotting alongside a broken lamp fixture. I didn't kill him, and he's been here since I arrived in this position. Here, in the city of Kursk.

Kursk.

She’s-

Her name is so familiar, the city's name. This is the Second Parliament Civil War. None of them should be around at this point. Only one other person I know of-

Another woman comes into view, walking from outside of an empty cafe. Her futrzane and all its fluffiness fill up my scope. Conversing with Murmansk, Avrora chats happily with her. Both are equally unaware that they are in a hostile war zone.

“Must be survivors not wanting to leave their homes,” the young spotter notes. “Fools, all of them.”

“Yeah,” I agree for the sake of the conversation, “Can’t do much.”

I watch from afar. Their vestiges disappear into an unknown building. Disappearing into the ruins like everything else that once lived here.

Sitting there, I think about what I’ve seen. They look so happy so at peace with life. Whatever magic that brought them back in time boggles my mind. They’re warriors like me—fighters of a different kind of war.

“Let’s report back.” The spotter doesn’t respond, “Hey, kid? Are you listening?”

Instantly, my partner disappeared. No rifle, no gear, no rain. Dreary weather fades into clouds and smoke. My hands claw through the white mist as they, too, disappear. My senses, body, and the battlefield disappear into the bright, snowy rays. Abrupt, sudden, yet calmly falling apart. The dream fades out into the waking world I know.

I pick up the phone. Cell phone, smartphone, whatever the name is for this space-age shit. New and fresh in my hands, the feeling of having to use this miniature box to speak to people is uncomfortable. In this day and age of technology, it's the best way to communicate with people.

“Hey, Kursk,” I fumble with the box, turning the speaker to my ear, “Hello?”

I hear laughter on the other side, “You had it upside down again, didn’t you?”

“Uh-huh,” I’m delighted she can’t see me. Her burst of laughter doesn’t help, “These things are strange. I’m not used to having a phone.”

“They take getting used to,” her voice softens, “It's great to hear you again. What do you think of the base?”

“Colorful,” I responded quickly, thinking of the past few days, “I’ve met many people so far and every one of them has been friendly and helpful.”

“I told you they’re welcoming.” Kursk hums, “Erm, how is the drinking?”

“A little from Gangut,” She groans in the background, “And Avrora invited me to a night of revelry tonight,” Kursk sighs through the phone. Expected reaction, “I’m going to make sure I’m sober enough to see you tomorrow.”

“Bah, you’ll be lucky to be sober at all. They’ll test your ability to survive whatever craziness the fleet planned,” by her groaning, I grinned at the thought of Kursk rubbing her eyes roughly out of stress, “Please don’t overdo it, I was worried whenever you passed out before I left.”

“I’ll take care of myself,” I said, “Avrora took good care of me. Although, I’m a bit worried if I end up with Gangut…”

“Ugh,” Kursk’s rising annoyance is spilling through the call, “Both of them are really good about hangovers. Just be careful of Avrora if she offers you a flask. She has two in her person at any given time and forgets which is the water and the drink.” 

“I’ll try to remember that.”

“Doubt it,” she catches my uncertainty, “Didn't work out so well for you when you first arrived here.” Noise beep in the background, “Ah, that’s my signal. Work calls.”

“I’ll see you again, Kursk.” I grin at my following words, “I love you.”

From her side, random noises erupt again. Thumping and slamming, I hear Kursk pick up the phone, “I will be there for you, Alexei.” She pauses, “I love you, too.”

Strange beeping noises tell me the call ends.

Being outside, I’m usually within my element. When I traveled to this base and found this hidden grove between two buildings, I thought I found a place securely in my grasp away from prying eyes. I should’ve known better when my neck jumped partway through my call. Someone is watching me from within the thicket—precisely, the set of bushes to the left of my bench.

“Get out of there,” Tiredness in my voice, knowing it couldn’t be one of the forest critters.

“Нафиг.” Blond hair sticks through the brush. Rising tall, I’m met with a snow-covered woman, “Bah, I hoped you wouldn’t hear me.”

“Uh-huh,” I pointed to the other bush, “Who’s that?”

She pats her hair, “I don’t know what you are talking about. There’s only you and I.”

“Right,” I pick up a stone and throw it towards the bush. To the hidden kansen’s surprise, “There she is.”

“Owie,” like the one before her, lightly blue hair sticking through the leaves, “Hey! That hurt!”

No regrets, “Politeness is thrown out the window when you’re spying on me.”

“He’s good, Arkhangelsk,” the blond one from before puts her hands on her hips, “I think he noticed us the moment Kursk picked up the phone.”

“Really?” Arkhangelsk rubs the top of her head, “Hmm, we were here much longer. At least that means we’re getting better at this, right, Kronshtadt?”

The other woman, the one I uncovered first, folds her arms in a triumphant state. Pride beaming in a strange mix of light, “Of course! Err, sorry, Comrade. We didn’t mean to eavesdrop on you. We were waiting for the Admiral and Gangut since they normally come through here on their morning rounds.”

“...oh.” That makes sense. It is a little too cold here, “And might I ask why?”

The two women share knowing smirks, “Love is in the air, Comrade,” Arkhangelsk says, “We were waiting ages for those two to get together!”

“And we wanted to see the fruits of that labor going into fruition!” Kronshtadt gains a curious glance, “I heard Alexei pushed one of them. Who knew we needed an outside catalyst because we’ve tried for ages to convince the Admiral to make a move.” 

“Knowing my uncle,” I look around, not sensing anyone else trying to listen in on a private conversation, “I doubt it, our family were always horrible with love.”

“What?” Arkhangelsk furrows her eyebrows, “I may be a soldier at heart, but even I can read the slightest bit of affection. And Gangut isn’t the type to keep it reserved.” 

Ignoring the blushing from both women, I think I messed up on my choice of words, “Correction, we’re terrible with expressing ourselves and it wasn’t my uncle I ‘pushed’ as you say. I was having a normal conversation with Gangut, and somehow, I started whatever relationship they are in now.”

“Remarkable,” Kronshtadt applauds me, “Quite skilled in romance, eh? You must’ve refined it with our dear Kursk.”

“Not…really,” I admit. Any significant ‘insight’ I gained before or after the beginning of our relationship is unknown. “If anything, I really have no idea what I’m doing.”

“You must be pulling my leg here,” Arkhangelsk objects, “A hunter like you must have tricks up your sleeve. Capturing rabbits, deer ... .possibly wolves?” 

You cheeky son of-

Beeping from Kronshtadt, she pulls out a circular device and holds it to her ear. Nodding her head, she puts it away and waves for Arkhangelsk, “Hmm, our hulls have finished inspection, but the Admiral wishes to speak to us about our cargo. Details about our last mission.”

“Ah, okay,” Arkhangelsk tips her hat at me, “Have a good day, Comrade Alexei! I hope we get to see each other at the bar tonight!”

“Yeah,” my enthusiasm does not match hers, but I attempt to smile, “I feel we’ll be around each other at one point. Conscious or not.”

“You’ll be fine,” Kronshtadt assures me with a pat to my back, “And the Admiral will be there too. He always drinks with us before a major operation. Especially on a Friday!”

“Kron, I think he drinks with us whenever he and Gangut are here,” the blue-haired woman scoffs, “Anyways, we need to get going; the Admiral’s waiting.”

And the two were off. Waiting once more for the two of them to disappear through the various buildings and pathways, I walk around the spot before finally stopping at a wall. Turning my head around the corner and leaning against a wall, I find the last person listening. Caught in her act, the figure freezes and shakes her head.

“Good job, how did you know?” The blue-haired woman, with arms folded, leans on the wall.

“Gut feeling.” I scanned around me again, “Would’ve found you sooner if I knew this place better.”

“Strange for someone to constantly be on edge,” this kansen cranes her neck at me with rapt attention, “The way your eyes move. I’m surprised you didn’t try to sniff me out when you discovered those two.”

“Could’ve. If you were a threat and I had my rifle, I would’ve.”

“Perceptively sharp, you really do match the description of a hunter,” The way she carries herself means she knows more than she lets on. This is a familiar feeling to Soyuz, and I make the connections immediately. Her outfit is quite different, yet the knives on her person show she’s also guarded. I tread carefully.

“Observing me?” this kansen stands up, “Belorussiya.”

“Alexei,” the name is familiar, “Soyuz’s sister?”

“I am,” she keeps a distance. Stepping only close enough for us to be at an arm’s length, “I look like her, don’t I?”

“No,” Her blue hair being the primary indicator of this difference, “No, I did my research. Read around some books in a library since I was getting tired of everyone knowing something about me when I know nothing about them.”

“Ah,” Belorossiya’s face morphs. She’s hiding it with a grin, “I gave myself out the moment I said my name. That’s on me. However, I found a lot of problems with that last statement. You must understand, I find it hard to believe you’re even the Admiral’s nephew.”

“Appearances can be deceiving,” her words hit in a way that made my response hasty, “Touched a sensitive topic? Sorry about my earlier comment.” 

“Bah, minor things,” Tension soaks in with an unsettling feeling radiating from her. She’s possessed with a pensive stare now, watching my every move, “Well, Alexei, as you have seen, kansen can take different shapes and forms. Even sisters can appear in their ways.”

“I agree, I guess. I’ve only ever met two of your sisters.” I pause, “Ukraina is the last one I haven’t met... Unless she and the other eleven canceled ones are in places I have never heard of.”

“You don’t need to prove your excellence. I clearly see you’ve done your research,” Belorossiya leans back on the wall, “Humor me. How much do you think we know about you?”

“My service history, my personal history, and possibly more than I can imagine. More than I’m comfortable with,” I answer curtly, “Judging by how you act around me now, you must’ve read into what I did in that time.”

The blue-haired woman nods, “I have, and despite how I feel towards your particular branch of the military, I’m impressed by your deeds. You walked away at a perfect time of your life, and yet you rejected it.”

I don’t like where this conversation is going, “I have, and I don’t look back.”

“Really?” Belorossiya points a finger at my waist, “You walk around still armed. Even without your rifle, I guarantee you have those knives and a pistol stored around your hip.”

“I’m a hunter. It's a habit.”

“Yet, you pointed your rifle at Murmansk and fired a shot on base.” Belorussiya drops what she’s wanted to say, “The port sure is peaceful... just as it should be. Violence should have no place outside the battlefield.”

“I know, it was an accident.” My actions have their consequences, “I didn’t mean to.”

“And you walked around this base searching for a catch. Looking for a game where you don’t need to. As if clawing for violence.”

She’s right, “Yeah? And?”

“It doesn’t add up,” the woman pointed directly at me, “You were everything a patriot could ask for. A loyal soldier with a strong conviction and a clean service record with many people praising you. A real, true, honest Hero of the Parliament.”

Belorussiya stands face to face with me, “You ran away to the forest to play hunter. Kursk does it as her hobby and passion, but you? You cowed and turned tailed. Vanishing when people need you as their hero. Why?”

I put my hands in my pockets. Trying to avoid reaching towards my hip and choosing not to say a single word. I don’t know how I’m supposed to respond to her. She’s telling me the facts and the reality, yet how she says it. None of it makes sense to me, and instead, it creates my problems internally, ebbing and flowing.

Plenty of emotions swirl and well up, too much keeping my mind occupied. In the end, I settle for the most dominant feeling. One that’s kept me sane enough in the loneliness of the Siberian forests. One that’s keeping me from walking away.

Backing away from her, I break eye contact. Digging into my waist, I pull out my pistol, “Fame and fortune never mattered to me. My father taught me that Parliament is my new tribe, my caravan through life. I took to my tasks and used my skills where needed.”

“I did my duty, Belorussiya,” I say, “Served my country when they called for me. And when the time came to walk, when the high faded from my time in conflict, I left.”

“Soldiers have their limit, I understand,” Belorossiya’s voice is low with its edge to repeat, “You on the other hand. You reek of one who seeks that lifestyle. Fighting for your life out there and for what. I ask again. Why?”

Unnerved, disturbed and riled beyond my comfort zone. This woman wants me to talk? Then I’ll talk. 

“There, for the first time in years, I was bothered by a mundane question. An officer was delivering letters and asked me if I had anyone back home waiting for me. I thought I did, and asked for letters from home. Family, friends I had, maybe a lover from a time gone by, when he had nothing to give me - I realized I had no one left. Only my rifle to love,” I swallowed back a nervous tick.

I think of Kursk. I think of when she came to my shacks and hunted with me. How much fun it was, and is, to find someone who enjoys the things I like—being around people who are so different, yet not cold to me. They’re all warm in their ways in the cold Northern Parliament, where they care about one another. It was like home. Like my old tribe with my mother and father.

“Then I met Kursk,” I say quietly, “She showed me there’s still value in people. Hunting and being alone was, is, and addiction - a comfort that can turn into a solace trap. Then I came here, and I have never felt so much as home as I’ve had in a long time.”

The woman watches me. Belorussiya gets up and breaks the distance with her stoic look. No longer holding her arms up, I could not react as she reached around me and hugged me. She is stuffing my face in, her cold, soft blue hair mixing in with an oddly warm embrace. Letting me go after a brief minute, with hands on both shoulders, she has the grin from before. Bereft of the past distrust, she’s genuinely happy to look at me.

“I apologize for the hostility,” Belorussiya says, “I’m glad we can provide a home for you, Alexei.”

“This again,” I blink, “I don’t follow, but I’m thankful all the same.”

“However, it works,” She breaks away and brushes my shoulders, “Go do what you need to do. We’ll see you tonight, Comrade. I’m glad we had this talk.”

Not explaining a damn thing to me, Belorussiya walks away. Leaving me alone, more confused and honestly tired by this recent day. Usually, I feel more frustrated by how many people I have to interact with, especially after such a conversation as I had with the blue-haired one.

“For once,” I brush my fingers into my hair, “I need a drink.”

Later that day, I entered the bar. Being the first one there, or believing I was, one other person arrived long before I did. My uncle Rall, with his hat off his head and two drinks in his hands. He hands me one shot of the familiar-looking vodka of the Parliament.

We sat there. I have not spoken to him at all since I arrived here. Although, it doesn’t take long for him to break the ice.

“...rough day, aye, nephew?” He leans in, “You look like shit.”

“Thanks, Uncle, fuck you too.” I take the drink, “Nice to know you’re still a prick.”

He laughs heartily, “I was trying to lighten the mood, Alexei!” He downs his shot and hands it to an awaiting little bird with a bowtie, and the little animal fills it instantly. Uncle Rall quickly takes the drink and downs the second, repeating the process yet faster.

“The girls like you a lot,” Uncle Rall explains, “Even Belorussiya and she was the only one who didn’t like you. It appears she’s changed her mind.”

“Yeah,” Our interaction is fresh in my mind. Gulping my shot, I hand it to the tiny bird. Then I see three other birds holding a bottle and pouring my second shot, “Neat.”

“Manjuu are interesting creatures, courtesy of the Eagle Union,” He drinks, I think is his fifth shot, “Or was it the Dragon Empery? Bah, I don’t know. Anyways, how was your first week here? You think you’ll be sticking around?”

“...what do you mean? Sticking around?” I shot my third, actually no, my fourth shot, “I was just visiting, and then I’ll be back out there…hunting again. You know?”

We both pause, and the birds leave to grab another bottle. When they return, I suddenly feel my head feeling much heavier. My uncle’s booming voice keeps my senses aligned and buzzing.

“I thought you were going to stay. I was going to arrange the paperwork for you,” the officer clinks his whatever-number-it-is with whatever-number-mine-is, “Maybe, even get you an apartment nearby. Or you could reenlist. Would make paperwork easier, and you can follow Kursk around…”

“What?” I slam an empty shot. A bird, the Manjuu, jumps up in frightened surprise, “Sorry, little one, didn’t mean to scare you.”

A thought crosses my mind. In my buzzing state, I think about everything that has transpired in the past few days. The past week. All my interactions around the base, with the kansen, the conversations, and the thoughts. My uncle’s knowing look may be a coincidence, or I could be seeing things. 

“Was this some,” I burp, “Roundabout way to get me back into the military? Seriously, uncle?”

“No, no, no!” He waves his hands around, “It was a suggestion! A joke, you see!”

“Bullshit,” I put a finger to his face, “Because if it were a joke, I wouldn’t be asking you for some sort of position.”

“Woah, woah! It was Soyuz’s idea-” He pauses, his current filling sloshes in his glass. He holds a now refilled glass in one hand, and in the other, I see a shining piece of metal on one of his fingers. Wait. Does he have a ring? When did that happen? "-You're serious? You actually are staying?" 

"I don't see why not," I shrug, "You're my only family left. They feel like family. Reminds me of the caravan from my youth. Shit, I don't mind staying." 

Uncle Rall reacts to me stronger than I could handle. Almost shaking the drink out of my hand. 

“You want to reenlist?” With suddenly more focus than ever, Uncle Rall holds the collar to my shirt, “You can just be a civilian! You don’t have to come back!” 

“Why not,” I shake my head, “I want to be around my girlfriend. Maybe become a contractor.  It's clear there’s more to the world moving on and I don’t want to miss it. This place has been good to me. Make sure I’m not some damn desk jockey.” 

I didn’t say that. I couldn’t have said that. 

He blinks. We blink. Then we laugh, finding whatever we said funny to our ears.

“We can talk about it later, my nephew.” Uncle Rall pats me on the back, “My brain is too mushy…oh, Gangut is going to screw me over so bad…”

Behind them, the doors to the bar burst open. A familiar ball of excitement quickly runs and slams onto the bar. The Manjuu, as if expecting it, cushions her arrival with a small pillow. Her scarlet eyes gaze around. Not too far behind her on the other kansen, off duty and some already drinking before reaching the door. 

“The party is here!” Gangut announces, “Hey! You two got started without me!”

“Oh my,” Avrora peaks her head in, “This is either going to be an early night or a late morning…”

“Doesn’t matter!” Gangut charges the Admiral, “Come on, dear! Let’s drink the night away!” 

“Hahahah! Yes!” The Admiral hoists her up, almost dropping his glass onto the ground before I quickly grab it from breaking. 

“Ach,” I stumble back towards the bar, “Okay, maybe this will be an early morning for me…” 

“Oh no you don’t!” Gangut pulls me into a warm and soft hug, my uncle blissfully grinning on her other side, “I want to celebrate tonight! For the girls!”

All those I have met from Gangut to Belorussiya gathered by, several faces I have yet to know hold turn their heads. Some hold their prepared glasses as Gangut, with a bottle she must’ve brought in, held high to the air. It is then I noticed she’s wearing my uncle officer’s cap on her head.

“For today!” Her hand shifts up, revealing another glowing band on her finger, “I am engaged to our Comrade Admiral! за вас!” 

“за вас!” Cheers erupt in the suddenly crowded bar, all of them go quiet as drinks are consumed. Shouts of joy and happy laughter come from each of them. A few clap and applaud in a hastily organized rabble. I join in, clapping lightly with the glass in my hand. In this brief respite, I wonder faintly how Kursk deals with this. No wonder she goes hunting with me. 

Because I’m going to be so hungover tomorrow…