Armored Core and all related characters and concepts are property of Agetec and From Software and are
not mind. All the characters in this story are mind so please ask before using (Like anyone would)
Characters
Demon Squadron Pilots
Commander Mia Vinosec (Age 25) (French Female from Newport)
Captain Kounji Takagi (Age 22) (Japanese Male from FortGarden)
Lieutenant Kai Isamo (Age 21) (Japanese Female from Fort Garden)
Captain Linnaeus Valione (Appears to be 25) (Italian/ Japanese Female from Unknown)
Lieutenant Amaro Satoshi (Age 29) (Male from Zam City)
Demon Squadron Technical Personel
Chief Tech Wilson Macintyre (Age 43) (Caucasian Male from Amber Crown)
Assistant Chief Tech Alexandria Macintyre (Age 16) (Caucasian Female from Amber Crown)
1st Class Tech Tizoku Ichigawa (Age 22) Japanese Male from Isaac City)
Kensei Corporate Personel
Jinkai Kensei (Age 52) (Japanese Male from Isaac City)
General Iora Conniver (Age 44) (Caucasian Female from Fort Garden)
General Eric Reynaldo (Age 50 ) (Latino Male from Amber Crown
Colonel Kenneth Greenfield (Age 37) (Caucasian Male from Fort Garden)
Asahi Noda (Age 46) (Japanese Male from Isaac City)
Chrome Corporate Personnel
Motobo Nazuka (Age 42) (Japanese Male from Isaac City)
Commander Ustasia Langley (Russian/English female from Amber Crown)
Captain Kogan Runo (French/Spanish male from Amber Crown)
Core Mercenaries
Derrik Chadon (Age 30) (African Male from Isaac City)
Nick Kawasaki (Age 25) (Japanese Male from Gal City)
Gia Chen (Age 23) (Chinese Female from Tei Sai Wastelands)
Civilians
Feln Edine (Age ???) (Caucasian male from Isaac City)
Mazen Delenair ( Age 30) (French male from Isacc City)
First a quote that I think all should know
I have realized that the past and future are real illusions, that they exist in the present, which is what there
is and all there is.
Allan Watts
Chapter 1:Requiem for a Hero
Earth: 2238 June 17 8:00 am GMT
Iccopa Coliseum, Isaac City
The academy, The years and years of fighting underground, on the surface, and in space; even all the time he had with all his comrades especially Kai. None of it mattered.
Vance is Dead. That was the only thing that mattered, at least to Kounji Takagi. The reality had just not set in for Kensei Global Security Force Operator. His mentor and best friend had given his very soul to save Isaac City, the birthplace of the two men and the largest urban center in the world. Even has he stood ten feet away from the unfilled casket of Vance it just wouldn't go away. It was unfilled because during the climax of Vance and Kiros' battle not only was Vance's AC "Valiant" destroyed but his body was incinerated completely. Once again, a warrior of the Corporate War had given their life invain. Just Like Dad. Kounji thought. The stories of Vance's time with the unit that Kounji's father led, the Ryuuko Kishin reentered his mind. At the beginning of Vance's Career, Vance was partners with Kounji's father, his long time friend Ayuna, and the rebellious Kiros Zain. Vance was the only survivor of a supposed patrol of an abandoned
Chrome Base or at least he was until news of Kiros' survival. The group was ambushed by Chrome Forces and Vance was the only one who narrowly escaped after Kounji's father told him too.
Kounji sat with his head down on the large concert stage awaiting the arrival of Mia Vinosec the quiet, calm, yet very charismatic friend of the departed Kurasagi. Kounji didn't talk much to his last surviving friend from his academy days, Kai Isamo, in fact he hadn't said anything to her that whole day. When they had occasionally locked eyes, Kounji had gathered that Kai want to keep to herself. Kounji deep inside, felt the same way; there wasn't much to be said. Mia Vinosec, Vance's friend, and partner of 4 years, when Kounji had talked to her earlier that morning had seemed to be taking it better than he had. Maybe the fact that she had helped Kensei Corp. and Isaac City coordinate and even
plan the services allowed her to cope better, or was it knowing that her or Vance could die at anytime that allowed her to deal with it..
Despite the small funeral with family and a few friends Vance may have wanted, the leaders of Isaac had strictly pushed for a funeral on a grander scale to rally the masses. Kounji was never one to use others to pursue his own agenda but Kensei and the leaders of the Isaac City Council were all for that sort of thing. Kounji was surprised that Mia had decided to help since she had known Vance for so long and would probably share the same convictions. Mia had told Kounji earlier in the week that she wanted to help
the Isaac Council turn something positive out of the tragedy the way Vance would have also wanted it. She had to always be working on something anyway. So Kounji decided to just accept it.The spot they chosen Iccopa, had never held a public funeral or any other type of funeral for that matter. It was constructed to look like a large scaled version of ancient Roman coliseums except that it was techno decorated and hosted the more modern form of gladiator combat, Armored Core Arena Competitions. Today, the coliseum was filled with thousands of people who have heard of Vance, lived in
Isaac or were just interested. Many sources speculated that this would be one of the biggest public funerals in the history of the world. It was scheduled to broadcast as far as the Space Fleets surrounding the moon.
Kounji lifted his head up and took a long glance around the Coliseum he immediately noticed Kensei's C.E.O Jinkai Kensei in the first row with his aides and staff. Further back was the bulk of the pilots from the Raven's Nest that many of the Ravens who had known Vance over the years such as the African
pilot Derrick "Wildman" Chadon, and Chinese pilot Gia Chen. Many people further back were from Kounji's family and Mia's. Before he got a chance to look further, he saw Mia approaching the staircase to the podium. He remembered hearing her approach from further back, but his mind was drifting. Mia stepped up to the podium looking confidant and ready as always. Even though he had known Mia for three years, he
was struck again by her enormous charisma. Something about her-her walk, her posture gave off a sense of surging power in the woman. She looked over her shoulder into Kounji's eyes with a compassionate smile on her face. Kounji tried his best to send one equally back. Off to his right he swore he could hear Kai grumbling in protest.
Mia was dressed up beautifully in a white and blue Kensei military dress uniform that day looking steady and keeping a smile despite obvious concern at the time. Mia clicked on her trademark terminal goggles on from the right side of her face and an orange electronic screen flew over her eyes. Words began to scroll. Cameras zoomed in on her face. Then she finally began to speak
"People of Isaac City, Today as you all know we are here to pay respects to AC pilot Vance
Kurasagi". Mia stated over nanophone." First, I would like to say that not only in the last week as he done a great service to Isaac, but his whole life he had given his heart and soul into this city. Ever since he was a little boy he always wanted the city to be a lot nicer. For people to stop being so cold to each other and for all the useless fighting stop. He never had any reason to become a soilder. There were plenty of ways for
him to make money in this world. It was through being a pilot of cores that he felt like was able to make a difference againist those would seek to destroy innocent lives. Those would seek to gain power by any means necessary. He felt they were the people who were responsible for how the world is today. Over the years Vance partook in missions to defend the people of the underground cities from this problem. Right up
until he died" Mia took a short breath before continuing
" In his last months I remember him saying if you can't do anything for the benefit of anyone else why is life worth living". Mia quoted " He cared for the people a whole lot". Mia glanced downward at the unfilled casket of Vance Kurasagi. Kounji noticed that someone had walked through one of Coliseum entrances before dropping to their knees. He knew it had to be one person, Vance's fiancé, Linay Valione who he could hear wailing from as far as she was. He wanted to go and hug her and console her in his
heart but in his mind he would see that has being distracting to Mia's message so he didn't do anything about it.. Mia once again looked forward and spoke again.
"For the many of you that did not know him personally, he was a great guy. Earlier in his career, around the time I first met him I was corporate hacker; ruining many of Isaac City's corporate databases and webs with a few other hackers. Vance was the one who discovered I had a great mind and I could and could pilot and operate many types of machinery including Armored Cores and I was not the only one; most
of his comrades here on the stage, most of the pilots here today, were recruited by Vance. We all fell under the spell of his daring, his uncompromising integrity, and his unshakable confidence in himself and others.
This very egotistical man made us believe we were capable of much more than we believed. It's what we all loved about him." Mia said
"As Vance matured, he lost his frigidness and began to look around and actually want to fight for the good of the people not for the money. This is when he became the great person we remember him as. He was brave and never shied away from a battle especially if someone was going to get hurt by his in-actions. He and our unit always went into battles against all odds and we always made it back even at his own expense. His skill and his will always made it that way. Vance went out the way he would have wanted doing exactly what I just told you. Fighting for us." Mia paused in mid speech. Kounji saw the glitter of a tear drop from Mia's eye and run down her face. "He truly lived when he was operating the AC but he couldn't escape the fact that the AC was weapon of destruction." " When he was alive his spirit and his will gave power to a weapon of destruction but now that he is at rest we should now use his spirit, his will, to power a movement towards peace. This is the task set before you." Mia clicked off her terminal goggles.
Everyone in the auditorium stood up and began a great applause. Mia stepped away from the podium griping her left arm with her right has she took her seat.
A man dressed in a Chrome Military officer's uniform stood up and walked in front of the casket. The applause then quieted. A soldier stepped up next to him and raised the Kensei Military flag. Seven more Kensei soldiers stood up with their rifles to their sides. It's over he really is gone. "Present arms!" the
officer said. The soldiers raised their guns high. "Fire" The first round of shots rang out. He's not coming back. "Fire" The second round of shots rang out. It can't ever happen again. "Fire" The final round of
shots rang out. It won't ever happen again, Not while I'm still alive. Not a tear the entire time came from
Kounji's eyes.
***
Earth: 2238 June 17 9:30amGMT
Zalm Desert
Location Unknown
42-year-old Motobo Nakuza grinned at his holo-television. Though he did grieve over the loss of one of humanity and Chrome's greatest assets; at the same time he loss a major thorn in his side. Thanks to Vance, Chrome was quickly gaining negative publicity from the Kiros incident. He and the last of the Chrome Security and Military forces were hidden within the depths of the Zalm desert at one of their two undiscovered locations. He was now reduced to living as his soldiers do in a underground military facility
due to the recent incidents. His quarters were poorly illuminated, dirty despite anything he did to clean or cover the smell and very small. On the far left, there was a small bed with an uncomfortable flat mattress. In the center was a poor excuse for a steel table and a steel-folding chair that anyone could tell didn't match,
that he was sitting in the middle. For any bodily excretions, there was small bathroom refresher area that was small enough to be a fourth of his previous closet space. Last, but not least was his entertainment a 16 million-color holo-television that could barely get the correct hair color of Mia Vinosec's hair. The
situation was enough to make any one who wasn't used to living in a prison sick. It was like moving from the Taj Mihal of the pre-Great Destruction Days to an outhouse of the same era to Motobo. It certainly didn't help that was Motobo was extremely anal about the whole situation at all. Good news, however had finally come for Motobo, and frankly, he was just damn happy about it.
Motobo watched as Kounji Takagi and Amaro Satoshi and a few others of the pallbearers took
Vance's casket away out of Iccopa. They were heading off to Kazian Community Cemeterywhere the actual burial was to take place. The television programming then went to then to the news. Motobo got up from his bed that he was sitting on and went to his bathroom to rinse his face despite how much it hurt him to be close the pungent smell eminating from the toilet. Motobo looked at the water droplets that ran down his face. He focused in on his eyes looking staring into to their deep brown depths. Now that Vance is
gone, the rest of Demon Squadron will use him as a martyr to find me. Motobo thought. At that moment, Motobo got a buzz at the door to his Quarters. Motobo turned off his holo-television via voice and walked from his bathroom to his front door just when the news began talking about him. He looked up at a monitor hanging in the upper right hand corner of his door. He was greeted by the a medium-height woman with jet-black hair a gray tank top and camouflage shorts. She looked up into the camera mounted
outside. It was obviously Langley. Her athletic build combined with her impatient lean made that apparent.
" It's me Langley." The person on the other side said. " What's so important." Motobo replied.
"It's time for your usual morning jog of the base, sir" Langley said.
Motobo finally opened the door. He was not glad at all to see Langley due to the realization that had just popped up in his mind. However, the thought of jogging with a beautiful military officer like Langley might actually take his mind off Demon Squadron and Vance Kurasagi. Motobo went to his dresser sifting through it for his jogging fatigues. "So Langley you wouldn't have happened to have watched the funeral
this morning?" Motobo said trying to strike a conversation. He grabbed a pair of shorts and slipped them on. "Yeah me and a couple of the other officers watched it in the mess; is that what you're so depressed about?" Langley replied in a sarcastically sincere tone. Langley was always good about knowing peoples feelings and exploiting them but then I'm not one to be exploited. Motobo had just finished dressing up but didn't reply back. Motobo tried to walk out his front door but Langley got in front of him. " The worst enemy
to this corporation is dead, honey, you should be overjoyed" Langley said to Motobo while trying to hold him. "But he's a martyr now Carla surely his unit is going to put all its efforts into finding me." Motobo said while shrugging Langley off him. He put his hands up against the wall next to the door and began stretching his calf muscles "With much of Kensei directing its efforts into finding me ill be dead or rotting in a prison somewhere in two months at the latest." You're wrong sir Kensei has bigger fish to fry; they have a
huge city to regroup and rebuild. We have a lot more time than you think." Langley said back. Langley then looked out side into the hallway and saw several of the other officers eavesdropping on their conversation. She gave them a cold glare, stomped moderately hard on the grated metal floor, and then has if on instinct they continued going about their business. Langley turned back toward Motobo and then
smiled. " Come on sir it's time for us to go the other officers are already suspicious and we haven't even begun to talk about that juicy stuff yet. " Langley mumbled.
The pair left out of Motobo's quarters and then began jogging down the long tan walled corridor at a fairly steady pace has not to tip off Motobo's in ability to jog for long distances. While running Motobo took time out to view Langley's posture and way of movement. A common practice that allowed him to analyze the character of people he would need to deal with either diplomatically or through aggression. She jogged as if she had done it many times before. Langley's steps were in perfect rhythm, with no
overstepping or under stepping at all.
About three and a half intersections down they turned and made their way towards the large entranceway to the Maintenance Area.. "Ok, Carla apparently you have something to talk about with me ?" Motobo asked. "Seeing that we're going into the maintenance area where you probably won't hear a thing I'm saying, I'll wait." she said As the two made their way into the Maintenance area, Motobo's senses were overwhelmed with bright high intensity torch flames and the sound of whirling drills. The maintenance facility was large compared to those usually found in underground bases. It sported about 18 AC
assemblers, which were now also supporting in the manufacturing of Advance Chaos 1.5 mecha. The two jogged directly down the center of the floor being careful to get out of the way of the many hazards that were found an area has busy has the Maintenance floor. As they jogged through slowly Motobo noticed a group of workers standing around with their attention focused at a Chaos 1.5 mecha under one of the
assemblers. "We've done, by god we've done it!" A worker yelled. Motobo moved closer near the crowd and saw what all the ruckus was. It was around some kind of test results being displayed on a holograph laptop. "Motobo nudged his way in front of one of the workers gathered around the MT. Motobo took a quick look at the booming long legged MT before focusing his attention at the man who had spoke earlier.
"What exactly have you done Mr.'…" Motobo asked "Zachary, Giles Zachary" Giles said. Motobo crossed his shoulders as Langley looked on at the conversation proceeding.
"Well it's quite amazing actually I think it would be able to do it for fast and for that long" Giles said. "Chaos 1.5 was able to charge up its energy completely with in three seconds of start up as well as recharge in 10 seconds after a complete energy burnout. I guess I would owe it to how energy efficient the parts for this model are." Giles continued. The man pushed up his prescription glasses further up his nose.
This told Nazuka he didn't have enough sense to buy glasses that fit and if he didn't have that how could he possibly have enough sense to design a MT from next to scratch.
"That's good news Mr. Zachary but do the weapons work efficiently." Motobo asked objectively. "Well, we have yet to test the new PX-M5 missiles has as well the updated laser cannons and the new chest gun based off the WG-Finger design have yet to be
tested outside of the simulations. We'll need a field test in order to make sure." Giles said. Motobo put his arms back to his side. He looked upon Giles with slight amusement. "Well keep up the good work Mr. Zachary I'll let you know on a date for that field test." Motobo said. "Very well Mr. Nazuka" Zachary said. Nazuka and Langley turned away from the crowd and began jogging towards the elevator at the edge of the room.
The two entered and Motobo set the elevator for his personal office floor while Langley leaned up against the opposite side. The doors closed and the elevator began ascending. "Well, the fact that you don't ever jog must have tipped you off apparently". Carla said while crossing her arms. "You know Langley I'm not in the mood for your sarcasm this morning." Motobo said. He faced left and looked out the large window that revealed the MT hanger where many technicians were busy doing routine maintenance on a
few of the units including one or two of the more heavy advanced modeled MTs and a few Armored Cores. He could see and hear sparks shooting off as robot welders put melded together sheets of Ferrous Titanium that were to be used has the armor covering for Chaos machines further back in the room "How's
the production of the modified advance Chaos models going." Motobo asked. "It is going along perfectly, seeing how Giles was able to get the generator working efficiently they should be done by the end of the month slightly ahead of schedule. sir." Langley said.
Motobo laughed a bit in his mind trying to remain somewhat stiff hearted. He knew it was all for show there obviously something more on Langley's mind then day-to-day operations. " What is this surprise Langley?" Motobo continued. Langley then walked next to where Motobo was standing. "I have a way of destroying the remnants of Demon Squadron". Langley whispered into his ear. "It's something that they would never think of looking for or at least wouldn't be looking for actively." Langley continued. Motobo punched in a keycode next to where the elevator buttons were. This code was to make it so any other elevator calls would be bypassed until the two reached their destination. This was obviously
something on the agenda. Motobo turned back toward Langley." This proposal would solve one problem but what about Kensei itself." Motobo queried. "If this guy's is as good as he says he is then Demon Squadron and Kensei will both be just memories soon enough." Langley answered. This guy huh, I really hope it isn't some professional assassin or something
The elevator then came to its final stop, the office of Motobo Nazuka. The two stepped out of the elevator and Motobo noticed a man sitting in a chair outside of Motobo's office. He was a bald white man who looked to be of middle age. The way he had his legs folded over one another in the chair suggested he had made himself comfortable in front of Motobo's office. This disturbed Motobo greatly. "Meet Alian Malikai, Great Destruction Researcher, Scientist, and former Chrome employee." Alian got up from his chair and walked
over to place out is hand hoping to great Motobo properly. Motobo neglected to extend his hand. Alian promptly returned his arm back to his side.
"I can understand your reluctance Mr. Nazuka, I used to work for your corporate enemies Linnale and Murakumo, but I assure those two were both temporary contract work and nothing more." Alian said.
"I hope you went through all the necessary precautions before bringing him here Langley". Motobo said threateningly. Motobo then walked over to his desk and took a seat.
" I'm not stupid you know of course I did he wouldn't be able to find his way back for all the credits in the world". Langley replied. Motobo then gestured Alian and Langley to take a seat. "
"Before you begin Alian there is one thing I would like to know".Motobo started " Alian looked a little worried before he replied.
"What would that be?" Alian asked.
"Why work for Chrome why not Kensei they would surely pay more for whatever this weapon, most likely, is? You have nothing to gain." Motobo said.
"Lets just say that Kensei wouldn't have the guts to do it" Alian replied. "Oh, men at this level are capable of more than you could possibly dream of Mr. Malikai. Motobo said
" Biological weapons?" Motobo asked.
"No something far different." Alian answered. Langley glanced over at Malakai before smiling at Motobo waiting for the former C.E.O. to answer. By the look how much Langley smiled at Motobo it was obvious she knew how he was going to answer. "Ok Alian name your price." Motobo said Alian grinned "Before I do that there will be a few things required
by your corporation just one or two minor tasks."
"You already have my undivided attention" Motobo replied.
"I need access to your companies central computer mainframe there are a few files deeply
embedded in it from long ago that will provide me with the tools I need." Alian said. ."
"The database is out of the question it's not with us its still in Isaac City and we were unable to transfer all of the files in the system before we abandoned it thanks to some incompetence." Motobo explained
" I propose an undertaking then." Langley said.
" I do hope this weapon of yours is worth using a few resources for". Motobo said.
" If it works how it's supposed to, it should be a crushing blow to our enemies Mr. Nazuka. Alian said.
Motobo made his way behind his chair and sat himself down finally. "By the way Mr. Malikai I was wondering what exactly is in this for you?" Motobo asked. Alian took a second to think about it before he replied which made Motobo wonder if there really was anything in it for him. "Oh, for me it's just a chance
to finish something I started on a long time ago.
not mind. All the characters in this story are mind so please ask before using (Like anyone would)
Characters
Demon Squadron Pilots
Commander Mia Vinosec (Age 25) (French Female from Newport)
Captain Kounji Takagi (Age 22) (Japanese Male from FortGarden)
Lieutenant Kai Isamo (Age 21) (Japanese Female from Fort Garden)
Captain Linnaeus Valione (Appears to be 25) (Italian/ Japanese Female from Unknown)
Lieutenant Amaro Satoshi (Age 29) (Male from Zam City)
Demon Squadron Technical Personel
Chief Tech Wilson Macintyre (Age 43) (Caucasian Male from Amber Crown)
Assistant Chief Tech Alexandria Macintyre (Age 16) (Caucasian Female from Amber Crown)
1st Class Tech Tizoku Ichigawa (Age 22) Japanese Male from Isaac City)
Kensei Corporate Personel
Jinkai Kensei (Age 52) (Japanese Male from Isaac City)
General Iora Conniver (Age 44) (Caucasian Female from Fort Garden)
General Eric Reynaldo (Age 50 ) (Latino Male from Amber Crown
Colonel Kenneth Greenfield (Age 37) (Caucasian Male from Fort Garden)
Asahi Noda (Age 46) (Japanese Male from Isaac City)
Chrome Corporate Personnel
Motobo Nazuka (Age 42) (Japanese Male from Isaac City)
Commander Ustasia Langley (Russian/English female from Amber Crown)
Captain Kogan Runo (French/Spanish male from Amber Crown)
Core Mercenaries
Derrik Chadon (Age 30) (African Male from Isaac City)
Nick Kawasaki (Age 25) (Japanese Male from Gal City)
Gia Chen (Age 23) (Chinese Female from Tei Sai Wastelands)
Civilians
Feln Edine (Age ???) (Caucasian male from Isaac City)
Mazen Delenair ( Age 30) (French male from Isacc City)
First a quote that I think all should know
I have realized that the past and future are real illusions, that they exist in the present, which is what there
is and all there is.
Allan Watts
Chapter 1:Requiem for a Hero
Earth: 2238 June 17 8:00 am GMT
Iccopa Coliseum, Isaac City
The academy, The years and years of fighting underground, on the surface, and in space; even all the time he had with all his comrades especially Kai. None of it mattered.
Vance is Dead. That was the only thing that mattered, at least to Kounji Takagi. The reality had just not set in for Kensei Global Security Force Operator. His mentor and best friend had given his very soul to save Isaac City, the birthplace of the two men and the largest urban center in the world. Even has he stood ten feet away from the unfilled casket of Vance it just wouldn't go away. It was unfilled because during the climax of Vance and Kiros' battle not only was Vance's AC "Valiant" destroyed but his body was incinerated completely. Once again, a warrior of the Corporate War had given their life invain. Just Like Dad. Kounji thought. The stories of Vance's time with the unit that Kounji's father led, the Ryuuko Kishin reentered his mind. At the beginning of Vance's Career, Vance was partners with Kounji's father, his long time friend Ayuna, and the rebellious Kiros Zain. Vance was the only survivor of a supposed patrol of an abandoned
Chrome Base or at least he was until news of Kiros' survival. The group was ambushed by Chrome Forces and Vance was the only one who narrowly escaped after Kounji's father told him too.
Kounji sat with his head down on the large concert stage awaiting the arrival of Mia Vinosec the quiet, calm, yet very charismatic friend of the departed Kurasagi. Kounji didn't talk much to his last surviving friend from his academy days, Kai Isamo, in fact he hadn't said anything to her that whole day. When they had occasionally locked eyes, Kounji had gathered that Kai want to keep to herself. Kounji deep inside, felt the same way; there wasn't much to be said. Mia Vinosec, Vance's friend, and partner of 4 years, when Kounji had talked to her earlier that morning had seemed to be taking it better than he had. Maybe the fact that she had helped Kensei Corp. and Isaac City coordinate and even
plan the services allowed her to cope better, or was it knowing that her or Vance could die at anytime that allowed her to deal with it..
Despite the small funeral with family and a few friends Vance may have wanted, the leaders of Isaac had strictly pushed for a funeral on a grander scale to rally the masses. Kounji was never one to use others to pursue his own agenda but Kensei and the leaders of the Isaac City Council were all for that sort of thing. Kounji was surprised that Mia had decided to help since she had known Vance for so long and would probably share the same convictions. Mia had told Kounji earlier in the week that she wanted to help
the Isaac Council turn something positive out of the tragedy the way Vance would have also wanted it. She had to always be working on something anyway. So Kounji decided to just accept it.The spot they chosen Iccopa, had never held a public funeral or any other type of funeral for that matter. It was constructed to look like a large scaled version of ancient Roman coliseums except that it was techno decorated and hosted the more modern form of gladiator combat, Armored Core Arena Competitions. Today, the coliseum was filled with thousands of people who have heard of Vance, lived in
Isaac or were just interested. Many sources speculated that this would be one of the biggest public funerals in the history of the world. It was scheduled to broadcast as far as the Space Fleets surrounding the moon.
Kounji lifted his head up and took a long glance around the Coliseum he immediately noticed Kensei's C.E.O Jinkai Kensei in the first row with his aides and staff. Further back was the bulk of the pilots from the Raven's Nest that many of the Ravens who had known Vance over the years such as the African
pilot Derrick "Wildman" Chadon, and Chinese pilot Gia Chen. Many people further back were from Kounji's family and Mia's. Before he got a chance to look further, he saw Mia approaching the staircase to the podium. He remembered hearing her approach from further back, but his mind was drifting. Mia stepped up to the podium looking confidant and ready as always. Even though he had known Mia for three years, he
was struck again by her enormous charisma. Something about her-her walk, her posture gave off a sense of surging power in the woman. She looked over her shoulder into Kounji's eyes with a compassionate smile on her face. Kounji tried his best to send one equally back. Off to his right he swore he could hear Kai grumbling in protest.
Mia was dressed up beautifully in a white and blue Kensei military dress uniform that day looking steady and keeping a smile despite obvious concern at the time. Mia clicked on her trademark terminal goggles on from the right side of her face and an orange electronic screen flew over her eyes. Words began to scroll. Cameras zoomed in on her face. Then she finally began to speak
"People of Isaac City, Today as you all know we are here to pay respects to AC pilot Vance
Kurasagi". Mia stated over nanophone." First, I would like to say that not only in the last week as he done a great service to Isaac, but his whole life he had given his heart and soul into this city. Ever since he was a little boy he always wanted the city to be a lot nicer. For people to stop being so cold to each other and for all the useless fighting stop. He never had any reason to become a soilder. There were plenty of ways for
him to make money in this world. It was through being a pilot of cores that he felt like was able to make a difference againist those would seek to destroy innocent lives. Those would seek to gain power by any means necessary. He felt they were the people who were responsible for how the world is today. Over the years Vance partook in missions to defend the people of the underground cities from this problem. Right up
until he died" Mia took a short breath before continuing
" In his last months I remember him saying if you can't do anything for the benefit of anyone else why is life worth living". Mia quoted " He cared for the people a whole lot". Mia glanced downward at the unfilled casket of Vance Kurasagi. Kounji noticed that someone had walked through one of Coliseum entrances before dropping to their knees. He knew it had to be one person, Vance's fiancé, Linay Valione who he could hear wailing from as far as she was. He wanted to go and hug her and console her in his
heart but in his mind he would see that has being distracting to Mia's message so he didn't do anything about it.. Mia once again looked forward and spoke again.
"For the many of you that did not know him personally, he was a great guy. Earlier in his career, around the time I first met him I was corporate hacker; ruining many of Isaac City's corporate databases and webs with a few other hackers. Vance was the one who discovered I had a great mind and I could and could pilot and operate many types of machinery including Armored Cores and I was not the only one; most
of his comrades here on the stage, most of the pilots here today, were recruited by Vance. We all fell under the spell of his daring, his uncompromising integrity, and his unshakable confidence in himself and others.
This very egotistical man made us believe we were capable of much more than we believed. It's what we all loved about him." Mia said
"As Vance matured, he lost his frigidness and began to look around and actually want to fight for the good of the people not for the money. This is when he became the great person we remember him as. He was brave and never shied away from a battle especially if someone was going to get hurt by his in-actions. He and our unit always went into battles against all odds and we always made it back even at his own expense. His skill and his will always made it that way. Vance went out the way he would have wanted doing exactly what I just told you. Fighting for us." Mia paused in mid speech. Kounji saw the glitter of a tear drop from Mia's eye and run down her face. "He truly lived when he was operating the AC but he couldn't escape the fact that the AC was weapon of destruction." " When he was alive his spirit and his will gave power to a weapon of destruction but now that he is at rest we should now use his spirit, his will, to power a movement towards peace. This is the task set before you." Mia clicked off her terminal goggles.
Everyone in the auditorium stood up and began a great applause. Mia stepped away from the podium griping her left arm with her right has she took her seat.
A man dressed in a Chrome Military officer's uniform stood up and walked in front of the casket. The applause then quieted. A soldier stepped up next to him and raised the Kensei Military flag. Seven more Kensei soldiers stood up with their rifles to their sides. It's over he really is gone. "Present arms!" the
officer said. The soldiers raised their guns high. "Fire" The first round of shots rang out. He's not coming back. "Fire" The second round of shots rang out. It can't ever happen again. "Fire" The final round of
shots rang out. It won't ever happen again, Not while I'm still alive. Not a tear the entire time came from
Kounji's eyes.
***
Earth: 2238 June 17 9:30amGMT
Zalm Desert
Location Unknown
42-year-old Motobo Nakuza grinned at his holo-television. Though he did grieve over the loss of one of humanity and Chrome's greatest assets; at the same time he loss a major thorn in his side. Thanks to Vance, Chrome was quickly gaining negative publicity from the Kiros incident. He and the last of the Chrome Security and Military forces were hidden within the depths of the Zalm desert at one of their two undiscovered locations. He was now reduced to living as his soldiers do in a underground military facility
due to the recent incidents. His quarters were poorly illuminated, dirty despite anything he did to clean or cover the smell and very small. On the far left, there was a small bed with an uncomfortable flat mattress. In the center was a poor excuse for a steel table and a steel-folding chair that anyone could tell didn't match,
that he was sitting in the middle. For any bodily excretions, there was small bathroom refresher area that was small enough to be a fourth of his previous closet space. Last, but not least was his entertainment a 16 million-color holo-television that could barely get the correct hair color of Mia Vinosec's hair. The
situation was enough to make any one who wasn't used to living in a prison sick. It was like moving from the Taj Mihal of the pre-Great Destruction Days to an outhouse of the same era to Motobo. It certainly didn't help that was Motobo was extremely anal about the whole situation at all. Good news, however had finally come for Motobo, and frankly, he was just damn happy about it.
Motobo watched as Kounji Takagi and Amaro Satoshi and a few others of the pallbearers took
Vance's casket away out of Iccopa. They were heading off to Kazian Community Cemeterywhere the actual burial was to take place. The television programming then went to then to the news. Motobo got up from his bed that he was sitting on and went to his bathroom to rinse his face despite how much it hurt him to be close the pungent smell eminating from the toilet. Motobo looked at the water droplets that ran down his face. He focused in on his eyes looking staring into to their deep brown depths. Now that Vance is
gone, the rest of Demon Squadron will use him as a martyr to find me. Motobo thought. At that moment, Motobo got a buzz at the door to his Quarters. Motobo turned off his holo-television via voice and walked from his bathroom to his front door just when the news began talking about him. He looked up at a monitor hanging in the upper right hand corner of his door. He was greeted by the a medium-height woman with jet-black hair a gray tank top and camouflage shorts. She looked up into the camera mounted
outside. It was obviously Langley. Her athletic build combined with her impatient lean made that apparent.
" It's me Langley." The person on the other side said. " What's so important." Motobo replied.
"It's time for your usual morning jog of the base, sir" Langley said.
Motobo finally opened the door. He was not glad at all to see Langley due to the realization that had just popped up in his mind. However, the thought of jogging with a beautiful military officer like Langley might actually take his mind off Demon Squadron and Vance Kurasagi. Motobo went to his dresser sifting through it for his jogging fatigues. "So Langley you wouldn't have happened to have watched the funeral
this morning?" Motobo said trying to strike a conversation. He grabbed a pair of shorts and slipped them on. "Yeah me and a couple of the other officers watched it in the mess; is that what you're so depressed about?" Langley replied in a sarcastically sincere tone. Langley was always good about knowing peoples feelings and exploiting them but then I'm not one to be exploited. Motobo had just finished dressing up but didn't reply back. Motobo tried to walk out his front door but Langley got in front of him. " The worst enemy
to this corporation is dead, honey, you should be overjoyed" Langley said to Motobo while trying to hold him. "But he's a martyr now Carla surely his unit is going to put all its efforts into finding me." Motobo said while shrugging Langley off him. He put his hands up against the wall next to the door and began stretching his calf muscles "With much of Kensei directing its efforts into finding me ill be dead or rotting in a prison somewhere in two months at the latest." You're wrong sir Kensei has bigger fish to fry; they have a
huge city to regroup and rebuild. We have a lot more time than you think." Langley said back. Langley then looked out side into the hallway and saw several of the other officers eavesdropping on their conversation. She gave them a cold glare, stomped moderately hard on the grated metal floor, and then has if on instinct they continued going about their business. Langley turned back toward Motobo and then
smiled. " Come on sir it's time for us to go the other officers are already suspicious and we haven't even begun to talk about that juicy stuff yet. " Langley mumbled.
The pair left out of Motobo's quarters and then began jogging down the long tan walled corridor at a fairly steady pace has not to tip off Motobo's in ability to jog for long distances. While running Motobo took time out to view Langley's posture and way of movement. A common practice that allowed him to analyze the character of people he would need to deal with either diplomatically or through aggression. She jogged as if she had done it many times before. Langley's steps were in perfect rhythm, with no
overstepping or under stepping at all.
About three and a half intersections down they turned and made their way towards the large entranceway to the Maintenance Area.. "Ok, Carla apparently you have something to talk about with me ?" Motobo asked. "Seeing that we're going into the maintenance area where you probably won't hear a thing I'm saying, I'll wait." she said As the two made their way into the Maintenance area, Motobo's senses were overwhelmed with bright high intensity torch flames and the sound of whirling drills. The maintenance facility was large compared to those usually found in underground bases. It sported about 18 AC
assemblers, which were now also supporting in the manufacturing of Advance Chaos 1.5 mecha. The two jogged directly down the center of the floor being careful to get out of the way of the many hazards that were found an area has busy has the Maintenance floor. As they jogged through slowly Motobo noticed a group of workers standing around with their attention focused at a Chaos 1.5 mecha under one of the
assemblers. "We've done, by god we've done it!" A worker yelled. Motobo moved closer near the crowd and saw what all the ruckus was. It was around some kind of test results being displayed on a holograph laptop. "Motobo nudged his way in front of one of the workers gathered around the MT. Motobo took a quick look at the booming long legged MT before focusing his attention at the man who had spoke earlier.
"What exactly have you done Mr.'…" Motobo asked "Zachary, Giles Zachary" Giles said. Motobo crossed his shoulders as Langley looked on at the conversation proceeding.
"Well it's quite amazing actually I think it would be able to do it for fast and for that long" Giles said. "Chaos 1.5 was able to charge up its energy completely with in three seconds of start up as well as recharge in 10 seconds after a complete energy burnout. I guess I would owe it to how energy efficient the parts for this model are." Giles continued. The man pushed up his prescription glasses further up his nose.
This told Nazuka he didn't have enough sense to buy glasses that fit and if he didn't have that how could he possibly have enough sense to design a MT from next to scratch.
"That's good news Mr. Zachary but do the weapons work efficiently." Motobo asked objectively. "Well, we have yet to test the new PX-M5 missiles has as well the updated laser cannons and the new chest gun based off the WG-Finger design have yet to be
tested outside of the simulations. We'll need a field test in order to make sure." Giles said. Motobo put his arms back to his side. He looked upon Giles with slight amusement. "Well keep up the good work Mr. Zachary I'll let you know on a date for that field test." Motobo said. "Very well Mr. Nazuka" Zachary said. Nazuka and Langley turned away from the crowd and began jogging towards the elevator at the edge of the room.
The two entered and Motobo set the elevator for his personal office floor while Langley leaned up against the opposite side. The doors closed and the elevator began ascending. "Well, the fact that you don't ever jog must have tipped you off apparently". Carla said while crossing her arms. "You know Langley I'm not in the mood for your sarcasm this morning." Motobo said. He faced left and looked out the large window that revealed the MT hanger where many technicians were busy doing routine maintenance on a
few of the units including one or two of the more heavy advanced modeled MTs and a few Armored Cores. He could see and hear sparks shooting off as robot welders put melded together sheets of Ferrous Titanium that were to be used has the armor covering for Chaos machines further back in the room "How's
the production of the modified advance Chaos models going." Motobo asked. "It is going along perfectly, seeing how Giles was able to get the generator working efficiently they should be done by the end of the month slightly ahead of schedule. sir." Langley said.
Motobo laughed a bit in his mind trying to remain somewhat stiff hearted. He knew it was all for show there obviously something more on Langley's mind then day-to-day operations. " What is this surprise Langley?" Motobo continued. Langley then walked next to where Motobo was standing. "I have a way of destroying the remnants of Demon Squadron". Langley whispered into his ear. "It's something that they would never think of looking for or at least wouldn't be looking for actively." Langley continued. Motobo punched in a keycode next to where the elevator buttons were. This code was to make it so any other elevator calls would be bypassed until the two reached their destination. This was obviously
something on the agenda. Motobo turned back toward Langley." This proposal would solve one problem but what about Kensei itself." Motobo queried. "If this guy's is as good as he says he is then Demon Squadron and Kensei will both be just memories soon enough." Langley answered. This guy huh, I really hope it isn't some professional assassin or something
The elevator then came to its final stop, the office of Motobo Nazuka. The two stepped out of the elevator and Motobo noticed a man sitting in a chair outside of Motobo's office. He was a bald white man who looked to be of middle age. The way he had his legs folded over one another in the chair suggested he had made himself comfortable in front of Motobo's office. This disturbed Motobo greatly. "Meet Alian Malikai, Great Destruction Researcher, Scientist, and former Chrome employee." Alian got up from his chair and walked
over to place out is hand hoping to great Motobo properly. Motobo neglected to extend his hand. Alian promptly returned his arm back to his side.
"I can understand your reluctance Mr. Nazuka, I used to work for your corporate enemies Linnale and Murakumo, but I assure those two were both temporary contract work and nothing more." Alian said.
"I hope you went through all the necessary precautions before bringing him here Langley". Motobo said threateningly. Motobo then walked over to his desk and took a seat.
" I'm not stupid you know of course I did he wouldn't be able to find his way back for all the credits in the world". Langley replied. Motobo then gestured Alian and Langley to take a seat. "
"Before you begin Alian there is one thing I would like to know".Motobo started " Alian looked a little worried before he replied.
"What would that be?" Alian asked.
"Why work for Chrome why not Kensei they would surely pay more for whatever this weapon, most likely, is? You have nothing to gain." Motobo said.
"Lets just say that Kensei wouldn't have the guts to do it" Alian replied. "Oh, men at this level are capable of more than you could possibly dream of Mr. Malikai. Motobo said
" Biological weapons?" Motobo asked.
"No something far different." Alian answered. Langley glanced over at Malakai before smiling at Motobo waiting for the former C.E.O. to answer. By the look how much Langley smiled at Motobo it was obvious she knew how he was going to answer. "Ok Alian name your price." Motobo said Alian grinned "Before I do that there will be a few things required
by your corporation just one or two minor tasks."
"You already have my undivided attention" Motobo replied.
"I need access to your companies central computer mainframe there are a few files deeply
embedded in it from long ago that will provide me with the tools I need." Alian said. ."
"The database is out of the question it's not with us its still in Isaac City and we were unable to transfer all of the files in the system before we abandoned it thanks to some incompetence." Motobo explained
" I propose an undertaking then." Langley said.
" I do hope this weapon of yours is worth using a few resources for". Motobo said.
" If it works how it's supposed to, it should be a crushing blow to our enemies Mr. Nazuka. Alian said.
Motobo made his way behind his chair and sat himself down finally. "By the way Mr. Malikai I was wondering what exactly is in this for you?" Motobo asked. Alian took a second to think about it before he replied which made Motobo wonder if there really was anything in it for him. "Oh, for me it's just a chance
to finish something I started on a long time ago.