Sorry for the late upload. Schoolwork and all that. Anyway, enjoy the chapter.

The commander's meeting had begun, with myself being fashionably late, much to the dismay of the others. I unclasped the sabre and took a seat, Rachael taking the seat beside me. Everyone for the most part was here.

"Now I assume everyone is here?" Mr. Reed asked.

Everyone nodded their heads, signaling a yes.

"Very well. Now, Mr. Kodama, the floor is yours."

"Ahem," Mr. Kodama spoke, "You are all here to clear up any confusion within the rules, and to try and get to know each other. Although it isn't official, there is quite a large chance that something like this tournament may happen again."

"Now, are there any questions on the rules?" Mr. Reed asked.

Ivan Vasily raised his hand.

"Yes, Mr. Vasily?" Mr. Kodama asked.

"When will we be able to make use of our custom tanks?"

"We will be allowing their usage during the semi finals." Mr. Reed answered, "I know you want to use your new Smasher Heavy, but you'll have to wait."

"Speaking of custom tanks," Mr. Kodama chimed in, "All of them must be approved by the 29th, which is two days from now."

"We have received quite a lot of applications for the usage of such tanks, and as of now, none infringe on the rules."

Another person then rose their hand, this time being one of the commanders of the JSF schools.

"Will we be able to use custom tanks?" The girl said. I think her name is Duce Anchovy.

"As long as they're cleared for use before the 29th. Custom tanks include modifications not intended for said tank."

"Any more questions?"

Once again, another girl rose her hand. Erika...

"Itsumi, I presume?" Mr. Reed asked.

"Yes." She said, nodding, "Since our schools are at a disadvantage, not being familiar with fighting these custom tanks, will we be given something to make the matches equal?"

"Keep in mind these tanks will only be allowed to be used during the semifinals and the finales. I know Kuromorimine is strong, but there is a chance that you won't make it that far."

"However," Mr. Kodama began, "We will be giving you pictures to show what these tanks look like to allow you to better prepare for them."

Mr. Reed then pulled out some files with the pictures of the tanks.

I turned to Rachael and whispered to her, "What about the Lycan."

"Don't worry David, Avery made sure not to submit the papers just yet. He also described it as a buffed up Super Pershing on the paper."

"He really thought it through, huh?"

"His paranoia knows no bounds."

*Avery's POV*

I had sent David to take my place during the meeting since the two of us have similar builds. I wanted to attend an auction for a tank.

That's right, an auction for a tank. An old collector wanted to get rid of some things cluttering his home. Apparently he made a deal with the NATL to apply carbon armour to the tanks to allow for usage in matches, in return for some money for supplying the tanks.

The first tank I saw was an M4E3A8. There was also a drawing of a wolf's head on it's left side. With it's 76 mm gun, it was deadly. However, it had no role within our forces.

Up next was an M6 Heavy. It's armour is pretty good, however, like the Easy Eight, had no real role if we were to use it.

Then came along an operational replica of a T-14 Heavy Tank. The T-14 was a quick turn off as maintaining and fixing it's tracks would be a nightmare. It would make a good Pawn, but we already have the Pershings for that.

Finally came along what I was here for. Up next was an operational replica of an Ru-251 light tank. We already had another one back on campus, but we would need this second one later on.

"This German light has been priced at around $80,000, do we have any takers?"

"$85,000!" A voice called out. I turned to the individual to see a black haired girl wearing the Prussia uniform.

"$90,000!" I yelled. Luckily selling the old Shermans and Pz IIIAs was able to give us around $120,000.

"$95,000!" The same girl said. It looks like this is going to get interesting.

"$100,000." I said.

I could hear the girl curse under her breath. I smirked as it meant she couldn't go any further.

"Do we have anyone for more than $100,000?"

No one else tried to buy it, giving the tank to me. After a few more tanks were brought up, the auction was over. I signed a few things and flashed a card given to me by Mr. Kylie with his signature, allowing the school to take ownership of the Ru-251. I wanted this tank to become one of my Bishops among our forces. It's speed and fire power was enough to harass anyone who comes to face them.

I was about to leave when the same girl who was trying to outbid me walked up to me.

"Do I know you?" She asked.

"No, I don't think so."

"I didn't think a Point student would come here just for a single tank. What, you finally run out of that money you get from the Bensons?"

"I'm sorry, but if I struck a nerve, then I think we should at least know each other."

"Hmph, You'll know my name when you get knocked out in the battlefield by me." The girl said, walking off.

Chloe Pfaff, an ace within Prussia's line up. Most commonly found commanding a Tiger I. She vowed to 'beat the pulp out of me' ever since I bested her back when I was still attending Britanica. She was always petty, taking on any challenges and making competitions out of small things. How she didn't recognize me was beyond me, but I'm glad she didn't. I guess I did let my hair grow out a bit though, and I did lose the glasses.

I continued my way out and found my bike. Reaching into my pocket for the keys, I hopped on and turned the ignition. I then drove off towards the NATL building since the meeting was going to have it's first recess. I was supposed too give the papers for the Ru-251 to Rachael. David probably is sick of pretending to be me. Unfortunately for him, I need him to keep the act up until the end of the day. I still have to try and get some info on the Japanese schools to help out Rachael's infiltrations. I don't want her going into the wrong rooms at the wrong times.

*David's POV*

I'm sick of this.

Everyone has been looking at me every time they could, it just feels weird. It'd be fine with me, if the white haired Japanese girl wasn't shooting me death glares. Mr. Reed went over some of the match rules which were pretty straight forward. Sabotaging the enemy's advance was unfortunately prohibited, probably yo the dismay of Avery. Though, knowing him, he probably already thought that out. The reason of banning it was to not allow a repeat of the last tournament. The rules of the matches were based closely off of the JSF's rules, since they are fighting on our ground, giving them a disadvantage. All the rules were either already known or common sense.

"Any questions?" Mr. Reed asked.

Everyone sat silently, with a few shaking their heads.

"Alright then, now's the time for our first recess of this meeting."

Everyone got up from their seats to stretch their legs, go out for a walk, or talk with the others. I went out to find Avery and brief him on what was discussed in the meeting.

I never actually got to see the inside of the NATL East Coast building besides the front lobby and the auditorium.  The walls were lined with paintings of either historical battles or some tanks. Between every three paintings were support beams. As I walked through the halls, I came across the same painting of the Battle of the River Trebbia. I must have gone full circle.

"Hey!" A familiar voice called out, somewhat echoing through the hall.

"Avery."

Avery walked over, holding some papers that I assumed were confirmation of Point's ownership of the Ru-251. He then handed them over.

"These go to Rachael." He said.

"Wait, aren't we switching places?" I asked. We had agreed on it last night.

"About that..." Avery said, shifting to the side, "I need you to continue acting as King for me."

"Come on man, I swear every one of the guys there want King dead."

"Well I need to get Rachael ready for her infiltration tomorrow."

"Why can't I just do that then?" I asked.

"Because it'd make more sense for her assistant to do it."

Damn, he got me there.

"Fine." I gave in, taking the papers and turning back to the room.

"Oh, and King?" Avery said, stopping me.

"Hmm?"

"If you see Olivia Parker or Donovan Thorne, I want you to annoy the hell out of them."

"Why is that?"

"Why not?" Avery said with a playful grin.

I sighed, "If they kill me, I'm telling them that it's really you who wears this mask."

Avery chuckled, then walked out, allowing me to get back to the meeting. He always went on about how a girl named Chloe was really petty, but I think he's the petty one, going off of what he said about her. There was still a little time left before the meeting started up again. I couldn't really do much while wearing this, and taking it off could raise some suspicions as to how I got here and why.

I decided to just head back and wait for everyone else. I hoped Rachael was sill there so I could give her the papers.

*Avery's POV*

After talking with 'King', I was just about to meet up with the guys. That was, until I ended up running into 'Amelia', as well as her cohorts.

"Good morning, Avery-san." Darjeeling said in Japanese.

"You too." I said, also in Japanese, surprising the three, though they were most likely more surprised by my horrid accent. I was just about to walk away if it weren't for Darjeeling stopping me.

"Would you care for some tea later?"

I whipped around, surprised at her boldness. I was very much conscious of my effect on her the last time we talked, and hopefully this wasn't her getting payback, or anything else for that matter.

I thought over going with her for some tea. The rest of my day was free, and I had no real plans other than binging some anime and eating some left over chicken the guys and I had. A tea party would be a nice change of pace, and I guess I could fish out some intel from them. Though, I still would need to keep my guard up if they were planning to do the same.

"That sounds lovely." I answered.

Darjeeling smiled, "The time will be 4:00 and we'll be meeting in our room on campus, see you then."

Darjeeling, along with Assam and Orange Pekoe walked off, with some faint murmuring from the two being heard. I continued on my way as well, praying that I wouldn't run into anyone I knew. They'll most likely lynch me if they ever saw my face again. Maybe not Anna, actually, especially Anna.

I started speed walking towards the doors out keeping my head low so as to not allow anyone else to recognize me. Luckily, I was home free as I pushed against the doors and walked out onto the parking lot. Swiftly finding my bike, I hopped on and drove off. It was still only 12:00, so I had plenty of time left. Sure, it was a school day, but Mr. Kylie thankfully gave me the day off. He was a little surprised to hear the news of me being the new overall commander, but thankful that he wasn't under the clutches of Rod Benson and his dad. He agreed to keep my identity a secret so I could 'Bring the trophy back home'.

I finally made it back to my place and unlocked the door. I walked in, took off my shoes and made my way to my TV. I fell into the soft confines of my couch and turned on the TV, putting on a show about teenage girls fighting each other in planes as sport.

*Timeskip brought to you by Chibi Avery bundled up in a blanket watching TV*

I fail to understand how fighting each other in planes is 'Safe'. What's stopping someone from mowing another down even when their smoke is released. Either way, it's entertaining. I looked at the clock above my TV and saw that it was 3:11. I turned off my TV and changed out of my school uniform, which I had put on earlier out of habit, despite being excused for the day. I instead opted for a simple black hoodie and blue jeans. I  grabbed my keys and walked out towards the garage of the apartment complex and found my parking space, which was occupied by my bike. Sticking the keys into the ignition, I rode out to the port.

After about half an hour of having to put up with traffic and the toll at the entrance into the port, I finally was near the Ark Royal. Apparently, Darjeeling told the girls at the dock that I was coming around this time, which helped make the process so much easier than just walking up to the girls and telling them I was invited to a tea party.

I dismounted from my bike and walked into a sort of lift that would take me up to the 'ground level' of the carrier. As I was being lifted up, I noticed how great the view was as I got higher and higher. I bet it looked even better at night, with all the lights and silhouettes against a starry sky. Along the way up, I got a text from David. I opened up his text and read it.

'You know how you wanted me to annoy Olivia and Donovan?'

'Yeah, why?'

'Let's just say they want you dead.'

I grew a grin as I put my phone back into my pocket. If only I was there myself. Before I knew it, the lift had arrived to the surface of the Ark Royal.

I walked onto the massive ship and made my way to the school. I underestimated the distance from the lift and the school, so it took a good 15 minutes to find my way and actually get to campus. Once there however, I saw a certain red headed girl along with a familiar head of orange standing near the gate. Orange Pekoe saw me approaching and notified Rosehip.

"Avery, is that right?" Orange Pekoe said.

"Yeah, it's me."

"Well then, follow us."

The two girls led me inside the school, which was pretty empty save for the after-school clubs. I also took in the Victorian styled architecture, with extravagancies found every nook and cranny I could see. I felt really out of place with my choice of clothing. Maybe I should have worn something for formal?

We eventually made it to what I assumed was the room. Pekoe knocked one the door, with a muffled feminine voice telling them to come in. Inside the room was Darjeeling and Assam, already enjoying some tea.

"Welcome, Avery." Darjeeling said.

"You're late." Assam deadpanned.

"Don't mind her, take a seat." Darjeeling said, pointing to one of the seats around the little table. On the table was a tea set as well as what I assumed were scones.

Pekoe, Rosehip and I each took a seat, though there were two empty seats left. Darjeeling then poured some tea into a little tea cup before handing it over to me. As I took it, the smell of the tea made a feeling of calm wash over me. Though, I'm more of a coffee person, I guess tea isn't so bad. I took a sip of it and was amazed at the quality in the taste. It was refreshing, and was further calming my mind.

"How is it?" Darjeeling asked, pulling me out of a state of near-bliss.

"It's good."

"I'm glad you like it."

I took another sip before turning back to Darjeeling, "Now why did you invite me here?"

"I was certain you would ask that," Darjeeling said, "I'd like for you to know that you weren't the only person we invited."

As if on a cue, the door opened to reveal the Saunders overall and the younger Nishizumi. The two were a little surprised at my presence, with Kay looking, a little jealous?

"Hello, Avery!" Miho said. Her bubbly personality was just radiating off of her, despite her apparently being shy.

I waved back, too busy taking another sip of tea. Darjeeling told the two to take a seat, with them occupying the two chairs left over.

"So why was I invited again?" I asked, realizing Darjeeling had never actually answered my question.

"I thought it would be nice to have a get together." Darjeeling said, taking a sip of her tea before continuing, "I also wanted to talk to you."

I choked a little on my tea as Darjeeling said that. She said it in a sort of seductive teasing tone. However, I anticipated this. I was ready.

I hope.

"Are you familiar with Miho and Kay?" Darjeeling asked.

"I've heard of them, and I did run into Miho a few times before." I was about to take another sip of tea, only to realize the cup was empty.

"Well, what did you hear?" Kay asked.

"Good things, if you're wondering. Mostly your performance as commanders of your respective teams." I reached over for the kettle and poured some more tea before continuing, "I'm impressed by both of your talents."

Miho blushed a little at my compliment, and Kay looked a little proud, reaching over and slapping me on the back.

"That's great to hear! I see that our legacies span even here then!" Kay said.

"I don't think you'd want to hear everything I've heard..." I said vaguely, remembering plenty of sites talking about her 'assets'. How they continue to stay up is beyond me.

"So Avery?" Miho said, "Are you part of the Tankery Team for your school?"

I was about to say no, but remembered that I told Alice that I was part of the team.

"Yeah, lately however I haven't been able to see much action."

"Well what tank do you operate?" Kay asked.

"I'm a radio operator for a Pershing." I lied. I chose the radio operator's role since I thought it would be the least suspicious. I also knew some military jargon, so I could pull off the charade.

A certain red haired girl then spoke up a little too loudly.

"What are your fastest tanks?" She asked, with a sort of glimmer in her eyes. It was a little frightening to actually witness her hyper self in person.

"Rosehip, please be a little more quiet." Darjeeling told her, taking a sip of her tea.

"H-Hai! Sorry..." Rosehip drooped down.

The room was a little quiet afterwards, though I took the initiative to cut the mild tension.

"You asked for our fastest tank, correct?" I said, causing Rosehip to perk up.

"Y-Yeah!"

"We have a few Hellcats, though we do have something faster." As I finished, Rosehip was obviously going to ask what our other tank was, "And before you ask what could be faster than a Hellcat, I'm not able to disclose that."

"Aw..."

Everyone else giggled a little, bringing the room back to it's state earlier.

"So 'Amelia'?" I asked, "You plan on continuing your work?"

Darjeeling lost a bit of composure as her face turned bright red, with her looking at her tea.

"W-Well... I don't exactly..."

"Am I missing something here?" Kay asked.

"And who's Amelia?" Miho asked.

I turned to Darjeeling, "Should I tell 'em?"

"I-I'd rather you not..."

"Suit yourself." I said, taking a sip of tea.

Everyone else in the room were a little puzzled. I'm guessing Darjeeling never told Assam of our run in during her infiltration.

"Why do you call her Amelia?" asked Rosehip.

I just took a sip of tea while Darjeeling avoided eye contact as much as possible, leading to more questions from the other five.

"Anyway, how are you all getting ready for your matches?" Darjeeling asked, thankfully changing the subject.

"We're training really hard!" Miho said. Ooarai is very limited in numbers and they needed to make each of their tanks count. That, and coupled with Miho's irregular style, made them a formidable foe.

"Same here! We also got ourselves a Super Pershing!" Kay said. Saunders has always put an emphasis on overwhelming firepower, usually taking out a single tank with three or five of theirs.

"Well we have been gathering some intel on the American schools." Assam said. The MI6 of St. Gloriana were impeccable when it came to intel gathering, being able to find some of the most oddest and secret bits of knowledge they could.

I took a sip of tea before speaking, "As of now, Point has been reforming its forces and getting rid of the old command."

"What do you mean 'getting rid of'?" Miho asked.

"I mean that the ones who were placed in Team commanding positions before were tested and removed if they proved incompetent."

"That's a little harsh..." Kay added.

"We've been on a losing streak for seven years, King really wants us to turn it around." I said, again taking a sip of tea, "Anyway, how has America been treating you all?"

"It's good, nothing bad has happened to anyone other than getting a little lost." Miho said.

"Same here, though we do have to have a tight leash on Alisa, who knows what she'll do." Kay said.

"Unfortunately, I myself have not been able to appreciate the city as much as I'd like," Darjeeling said, "I've mainly been busy here."

"Utter lies." I mumbled under my breathe.

"Did you say something Avery?" Pekoe asked.

I faked a cough before speaking, "That's good to hear from you all."

"Are there any places you'd like to recommend for us to visit?" asked Assam.

I thought about it. I didn't exactly know what they all liked personally. If I had to guess, the Gloriana girls would most likely prefer something more sophisticated. The Saunders girls would probably be able to enjoy anything, same goes for the Ooarai girls.

"I don't really have too many recommendations." I didn't want them to know how recently I moved here to avoid suspicions.

"Bummer..." Kay mumbled.

"Sorry."

I finished my tea and set the cup on the table, having had my fill.

"You're finished with your tea?" asked Darjeeling.

"There is such a thing as too 'much of a good thing'." I replied.

"Well I'm glad you enjoyed it!"

"Say, Avery?" Kay asked, "Do you know who King is?"

I figured this was going to come up sooner or later.

"No, I do not."

"Believe it or not," Miho began, "Maho actually thinks you're King."

I expected Assam to figure it out first, considering St. Gloriana's MI6 group. However, Maho finding out wouldn't change my plans all too much.

"I'll take that as a compliment." I said with a smile, "Though I do hope neither Maho or Erika have any negative feelings towards Point Academy."

"Don't worry, I'm sure it's just Erika who's a little mad at King." Miho said, "Maho probably brushed it off by now."

After Miho finished, the room was a little quiet as no one had anything to really say. I checked the time on my watch and saw that it was 5:11. I don't have any plans for the rest of the day, but I didn't exactly know what to do here either. I decided to just bid my farewell for the day and head back home.

"Hey, 'Amelia'?" I asked.

"Yes?" Darjeeling said, a little irritated. She must have gotten over the embarrassment of being called that.

"Is it fine if I head out now?" 

"We wouldn't want to keep you here against your will, you can go."

I got up from my seat, about to walk off. Before I left the room I turned back and bowed.

"Thank you for having me."

And with that, I went back home for the night.