[Strike Witches] Witches of Aurora Novel Adaptation

The Bond in the Moonlight

(Adapted from the chapter The 24th Squadron's Holiday of the manga series Witches of Aurora by Kyougoku Shin.)

"I lost again...," said Nipa in despair. She put down the poker cards and slumped against the back of the chair.

"That's the 12th time in a row, Nipa," said Hasse as she smiled wryly.

"All your snacks from today and tomorrow belong to me now," said Laura as she did the shuffling. "At critical times, you failed to keep your poker face, Nipa. That's why you lose so often."

Nipa rested her head on the table, "We even got huge rations this time and you still want more? Oh well, it's all yours now..."

Nipa's words reminded Laura of something, "Indeed, we got new Striker Units and weapons. Look like our financial conditions have improved."

All of a sudden, Hasse's face took on a serious expression and apparently began to ponder on something.

"Is there anything wrong, Hasse?" asked Nipa confusedly as she saw Hasse frowned and put one fist under her chin.

"Ah, nothing. Sorry," Hasse waved and forced a smile.

At this moment, Eila darted in excitedly. It turned out that their application for leave had been approved. They had planned on a trip to Helsinki a long time ago. Now they could finally go on it.

To their surprise, Commander Luukkanen and Aurora were going, too.

"She's already planning to visit as many bars as she can and drink to her heart's content. As for me, I'd like to visit my favorite café. And you don't want a drunkard to give you a drive, right?"

Everyone agreed. The problem of transport was settled down, too.

After the commander ordered them to assemble at the front entrance at 0900 hours the next day, they excitedly fell out.

The next day, as planned, everyone departed at nine o'clock and let the commander drive them to Helsinki, the Southernmost city of Suomus.

"Wow! This is so cool! I'm used to seeing mountains and forests, so this is really nice!" Nipa marveled at the sight of the Helsinki Cathedral, Helsinki City Hall, and the fountain.

"Calm down, Nipa! It's not like we're country hicks..."

"It looks like you're excited too, Illu..."

The expansive Senate Square gave a refreshing, relaxed feeling to their hearts. Later on, the commander suggested to go to a nearby café. Aurora asked if they served alcohol there. Laura asked if they sold delicious cakes, to which the commander responded that she recommended their sachertorte. Laura's face then took on a rare excited expression, her mouth starting to water. Every girl asked Nipa to foot the bill as a punishment for losing the card game from yesterday. Fortunately, the commander came to Nipa's rescue, announcing that it would be her treat in celebration of this precious chance to take a trip.