Seven Months p 2
Disclaimer: I do not own Full Metal Panic! Wish I did though.
Summer in Tokyo: Month 4
On the Mithril charter flight, Sousuke and Kaname are still holding each other in a soft embrace as they fall asleep. Two hours later, Kaname slowly opens her brown eyes and smiles softly as she looks at the sleeping form beside her.
'Poor Sousuke. All the fun had taken it out of him.' She then looks at her engagement ring and smiles proudly at the way it was crafted. 'Only Sousuke would bridge the gap between his world and my world with this design. Yet, it's beautiful. The detail to the cherry blossom is extraordinary. The same for the grenade.' Looking down at her belly, she can see a slight bulge there. 'I'm starting to show now, slightly.' She then lovingly strokes her belly and nods.
"You'll have what your Father never had, baby. A chance to grow up in a peaceful environment, with loving parents. If they were alive right now, your Daddy's parents would undoubtedly be proud of him and his career. I know I am."
Cautiously unwrapping her arms from around Sousuke, she makes her way to the onboard phone and elects to call Kyoko Tokiwa to let her know they're on their way back. After entering the access code for the phone, she punches in Kyoko's number and soon smiles when she hears her friend's sleepy, yet chipper, voice.
"Hello?"
"Kyoko, it's Kaname."
"Kaname! How was your summer trip with Sousuke? Anything special happen?"
"Yeah. Several things. We're on our way back to Tokyo and I just woke up. So, what's happened at your end?"
"Let's see, Mizuki Inaba and Issei Tsubaki are seeing each other more, Saturo Shirai joined up with the JSDF. I guess he still thinks he's got a chance with you. Shinji Kazama, well."
"Well what, Kyoko?"
"He asked me out on a date, Kaname."
"Oh, that's wonderful, Kyoko. Has it happened yet?"
"No. It's not until you and Sousuke get back. We'd both feel better if you were with us for a double date. So, where's Sousuke right now? Oh, how was the convention circuit? Sousuke blow up anything or make new friends?" Kyoko's giggling is contagious as Kaname is giggling as well.
"He's asleep. He had such a good time this summer that he tired himself out. The circuit was great and he didn't blow much of anything up except where he was doing demonstrations of his skills. You might say he took first place in every event. Also, I have some news for you, Kyoko. You can't tell anyone else, at least until after we get back home. Oh, how are my hamster and fish?"
"They're doing fine. I think they miss you, though. So, what's the news?"
"Three things. One, Sousuke has a cousin." Kyoko's squeal is so loud, Kaname pulls it away from her ear.
"He has a cousin, Kaname? Where at?"
"Detroit, Michigan. He's a dead ringer for Sousuke except for one thing."
"Let me guess. Sousuke's scar."
"Yep. He didn't even know Sousuke was still alive. Same could be said for Sousuke when he found out about Luke, so it was a surprise for us all when they found each other. Ready for number two?"
"Ready, Kaname."
"We're engaged to be married." This time, Kyoko screams in delight at her friends' luck. The scream is so intense, Kaname jerks the phone away from her ear and cringes until Kyoko calms down.
"Oh wow. He doesn't waste time, does he, Kaname?"
"He wasted enough time trying to figure out his feelings. Seeing so much madness around him, he simply had no idea how to live in the world."
"By this time next year, you'll both be pushing a baby carriage, Kaname. So when's the wedding, Kaname?"
"It's interesting you should happen to mention that, Kyoko. Here's number three. We're having a baby." Suddenly, Kaname hears a thud on the other side of the line. "Kyoko? Kyoko, you okay?"
When she gets no reply, she smirks and says, "That's what you get for saying something like that, Kyoko." At that, she ends the call and returns to Sousuke's arms, a content smile on her face.
She then yawns and gets a naughty idea. She undoes her blouse and removes it, clad only in her bra now. She then gets into Sousuke's lap and curls herself up so that she'd be kissing his cheek for when he awakens. 'Try and top this, Sousuke.' With that thought, Kaname nods back off to sleep.
Five hours later, Sousuke groggily opens his eyes and sees Kaname's bra-covered breasts right in front of him, with Kaname right on his lap. Looking up, he sees Kaname is wearing a smug smile on her face and smiles softly. He then tilts her lips his way and kisses them softly, only for Kaname to return the kiss with more passion.
"Mmm, I like good evening kisses, Sousuke. What'd you think of what I did?"
"You don't need to get my attention like that, Kaname. You already have it. However, they are lovely, just like you are." Sousuke can't help but blush as he said it, with Kaname blushing as well.
"You are so handsome, Sousuke. If I'm not careful, you just might charm my skirt right off of me. Then again." Kaname then starts to pull her skirt off, a seductive smile on her face. When she looks at Sousuke, she sees that he's sweating 'bullets', just like at the Tracy wedding the previous month ago.
"Okay, we'll wait until we're back in Japan, Sousuke. It's not a problem."
Kaname then giggles as she pulls her skirt back up and softly kisses him, only for Sousuke to completely open his mouth and knock on her lips with his tongue. Opening her mouth, she allows Sousuke's tongue entry and they both French each other silly. She then shifts herself to the point where she's straddling Sousuke's lower region.
"This feels like a good position, Sousuke. Sousuke?" She then looks down at his face and sees that he's almost ready to pass out. "Oops. I guess that was too much for you to take, Sousuke." Getting up off his lap, she smiles as his breathing becomes normal.
"I'll think about using that as a proper daily chastisement when we get home from school, Sousuke." That does it as Sousuke's mind goes into overload and he passes right out. "He's so cute when he's tied up like a pretzel."
Now giggling again, Kaname gets up from his lap and puts her blouse back on before retaking her seat beside Sousuke. Intertwining her Fiance's fingers within hers, she kisses Sousuke's cheek softly before going back to sleep.
Five more hours later, Sousuke opens his steel-grey eyes and sees Kaname's back in her seat. Smiling softly, he runs his fingers through her hair, resulting in a stir from his 'Angel'. Kaname softly opens her eyes and smiles, blowing Sousuke a kiss. He returns it, resulting in a blush from her.
"Good morning, Kaname."
"Mmm, good morning, Sousuke. Feeling any better?"
"Affirmative. Just needed time for my mind to reset, Kaname." Sousuke then leans over and kisses Kaname, a proud smile on his face. "Have I told you how lovely you look?"
"No. Not since last night, Sousuke."
"You're so lovely, I can't find the words." Kaname blushes at that and kisses Sousuke passionately, just as the pilot's voice comes up.
"Lt. Sagara and Miss Chidori, we're approaching Tokyo and we have just gotten clearance to land." Kaname looks over at Sousuke and smiles softly before giving him a soft peck on his lips, with him returning it.
Fifteen minutes later, the plane lands and taxis to a stop in front of the terminal. When they get there, they see their friends and classmates waiting for them. Shinji and Kyoko are holding each others' hands while Maya Mukai is holding up a 'Welcome Home' sign. Mizuki and Issei are smiling widely with Dotaro Onodera right beside them.
As the couple leaves the plane, their friends and classmates swarm them, with Sousuke bringing out his Glock and firing into the air.
"Easy, we just came back home. Even more, we have an announcement to make."
Kaname nods and takes it from there. "We're engaged to be married and having a baby."
The reactions are so boisterous, it's a wonder that no one had gotten mangled as they all made their way to the parking lot. Both Sousuke and Kaname's jaws drop when they see the class had rented a van to pick them up in.
Shinji then smiles and says, "One place I think we should go to is the beach. Those in favor?" A sounding cheer erupts from everyone, even the still-stunned couple. The group then loads the teens into the van, with Onodera behind the wheel. He then drives the van out of the parking lot and heads it for the beach.
As they ride, Kaname comes out of it and asks, "Where's Ren at?"
Mizuki smiles and replies, "She and Atsunobu are waiting for us at the beach. So, Sousuke, are you going to use a shotgun on the watermelon like the last time? That was incredible when you did it blindfolded."
"Negative. My bag is bound to be back at my apartment by now. It simply wouldn't be worth the gas to get it."
Shinji then grins and says, "Actually, Atsunobu has the bag with him. He said he found it on his front porch one night about a month ago. With instructions that he give it to you upon arrival in Tokyo. Miss Kagurazaka, well."
"What about Miss Kagurazaka, Shinji?"
"I'm sorry, Kaname. But Miss Kagurazaka has been looking up all references to the Sagara name. I think she's intent on finding out how much of an otaku Sousuke is."
"No need to worry, Shinji. After all, it's not like there's a listing of otakus planet-wide. Right, Sousuke?"
"Affirmative, Kaname. So Shinji, how's your Father doing?"
"Oh, he's doing fine, Sousuke. In fact, you and Kaname made it back in time for the Base Festival." Kaname grins and wraps Sousuke into her arms and kisses him.
"We got back home just in time, Sousuke. Who's the opposing team this time, Shinji?"
"Team Nerima, just like the other summer. It seems that Captain Akagi wasn't pleased with the defeat that had been handed to his team."
"Well, he's not supposed to be. At the same time though, it was time for Narashino to win. Especially with 'the secret weapon' on their side."
Her curiosity peaked, Mizuki asks, "Who was that BS pilot anyways?"
"It's AS, Mizuki. As for who it was, it'll be better if no one knows who it actually is. Although, one just might suspect Lieutenant Lunacy here."
"Oh? What happened to Sergeant Stupidity, Kaname?"
"Kyoko, Sousuke was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant at the convention in Denver, Colorado. I have never felt so proud of Sousuke until now. Well, except for this." She then sends her left hand toward Kyoko to show her friends her ring.
Issei, Shinji, Maya, Mizuki and Kyoko all drop their jaws at the sight of the ring. Mizuki recovers her jaw in time to ask, "Is that a grenade on there?"
"Affirmative. It's Sousuke's way of blending our worlds together. The Cherry Blossom is my world and the grenade is Sousuke's." She then turns to Kyoko and smirks, saying, "I'm surprised you didn't blab about the other news, Kyoko."
"I didn't really remember very much. Just that you told me Sousuke has a cousin and you were engaged. When I heard the most impossible thing, I passed out."
Maya, intrigued, asks, "What was that, Kyoko? It's not like Kaname's pregnant."
"Actually, Maya, I am. Sousuke and I are getting married and having a baby." Maya has a stunned reaction while Mizuki shakes her head, muttering. "What's wrong, Mizuki?"
"Kaname, I only held that sign up as a joke when you were leaving. Now you return home knocked up. With Sousuke's baby no less. I know Sousuke takes things seriously, but why did you? It's because of me!" Mizuki then starts crying, only to be surprised to find Sousuke's arms around her in a consoling manner.
"You had no way of knowing what would happen, Mizuki. In a way, I'm glad this happened, as it's made me a little more human inside." Kaname nods in agreement with Sousuke and smiles as she brings out an envelope.
"That's right, Mizuki. I even have some pictures you might like here with us."
"Uh, Kaname? Is that the envelope from the Rockwaller mansion?"
"Yep, that it is, Sousuke. Now I know where Bonnie got her photography skills from. Here, this is us holding Kim and Ron Rockwaller. I'm holding Kim while Sousuke's holding Ron." Sousuke blushes intensely as Mizuki and Kyoko giggle.
"Oh, Kaname. You look happy with your finger inside Kim's mouth. Oh, Sousuke looks very manly holding a baby. Any ideas for names for your baby, Kaname and Sousuke?"
Kaname smiles proudly as she replies, "Already got one picked out, Maya. We found out it's a boy. So we're naming him Sousuke Sagara Jr."
"Whoa. Who told you that it's a boy, Kaname?" Kyoko is curious, as are the others.
"A Doctor I met during our trip, Kyoko. I hadn't been feeling well. She took a blood sample and that's when I learned about the news." She then wraps Sousuke back into her arms and kisses the side of his head. "Now I won't have to worry so much whenever Sousuke goes out on out of town trips. Because he'll have incentive to return home." The others chuckle and nod in agreement just as a Police siren sounds.
"Ono-D, what happened?"
"I'm not sure, Maya. I'll find out once I pull over." Once Ono-D has pulled over, the teens anxiously wait.
While they wait, Kaname takes an opportunity to see her friends. Maya had cut her red hair down to shoulder-length while Mizuki had let hers grow some. Kyoko has her reddish-blond hair in a ponytail while Shinji has his usual trim. Issei's green hair is still long and in a ponytail while Ono-D's hair is still blond and cropped.
Kaname then looks out the window and groans. "Oh no, not her!" Officer Yoko Wakana has her fiery-red hair closely cropped and is wearing a shark's grin.
"License and registration, now!" Ono-D scrambles to get out the registration while handing Wakana his license. When she reads his name on there, she asks, "Do you know why I pulled you over, Mr. Onodera?"
"No, Officer. I don't."
"Simple. You're overloaded. A van this size can only hold five people and it looks like you have seven or eight in there."
"My apologies, Officer. But it was the best I could do on short notice. A pair of friends of ours had just returned from the States and we're heading to the beach to relax until we all go back to school."
"All right. Passengers, step out of the van!" With a maniacal gleam in her eye, Wakana watches the teens step out of the van until she sees two familiar faces. "Well, now. It's little Miss Blue Hair and Mr. Double Rider. Welcome home. How was your trip?" She then lets out a laugh so shrill, it sends chills up everyone's spine except for Sousuke and Kaname.
Kaname smiles warmly and replies, "Pleasant. Very pleasant and fulfilling." She then brushes her left hand against her long blue hair when Wakana catches sight of her ring.
In a soft voice, which is rare for her, she asks, "Who's the lucky guy?"
"I am, Officer." Sousuke proudly steps to Kaname's side and wraps his arms around her torso. "I'm not able to participate in a match at the moment, however. The bag carrying my gear is with a friend of ours at the beach. If you like, we can have it there."
Curious, the others look toward Sousuke, with Kyoko asking, "What kind of match, Sousuke?"
"A shooting match, Kyoko. I even had a shooting match with Commander Alex Murphy of the Detroit Police Department during our trip. Surprisingly enough, he won."
"Whoa, I never thought you could be out-shot, Sousuke. You must not have been feeling well." Kyoko nods in agreement with Shinji as the others exchange worried glances.
"Actually, I was in excellent shape, Shinji."
"But how'd you lose, Sousuke?"
Sousuke turns to Kaname and asks, "Would you like to tell them or shall I, my darling Kaname?"
"You tell them, sweetie."
"Understood. Have you ever heard of Robocop?" At their nods and smiles, he goes on. "Commander Alex Murphy is also known as Robocop." That news floors everyone, aside from Sousuke and Kaname.
Wakana recovers her wits in time to ask, "How'd he beat you?"
"Superior firepower and sheer willpower, an excellent combination for an Officer of his caliber. Well, shall we proceed on to the beach so we can hold our competition, Officer Wakana?"
In a manic, frenzied voice, she replies, "Let's do it! HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" She's still laughing as she runs back to her Patrol car while the teens get back into the van.
Once back inside, Kaname looks at Sousuke and Sousuke winks at her. "It's not a problem."
"That makes me feel so better, Sousuke. When we get to the beach, I'll write Kim and Ron to let them know we made it back here."
A puzzled Issei asks, "How can infants read a letter?"
"Not that Kim and Ron, Tsubaki. Ron and Kim Stoppable. Surprisingly enough, Bonnie named the infants after them." Sousuke's explanation is enough for them as he goes on. "Ron is the creator of the Naco and, as a result, very rich. He's probably getting ready for college as we speak."
At that, they arrive at the beach and see Ren Mikihara in her red one-piece bathing suit sitting across from Atsunobu Hayashimizu, still dressed in his ever-present white suit.
"How long has he been dressing like that? The whole summer?" Kaname is incredulous as she takes in the sight of the Student Body President. "This is summertime and a beach."
"It's one of things about him, Kaname. I think if he's to let himself go, the word will trickle back to school and the Principal would find it out of character for him. But, yeah. He's dressed like that every day since you and Sousuke left." Mizuki shrugs her shoulders after explaining and smiles at Sousuke's perplexed visage.
"I know his Excellency is required to be professional, but that's only at school, not the beach. It's beyond me." With that said, the group leaves the van, a surprised Wakana right behind them.
"Why is he wearing a suit at the beach? Is he that much of a busybody?"
Ono-D shrugs and replies, "No one really knows, Officer Wakana. President Hayashimizu, we're here!"
Ren turns at the voice and smiles when she sees Sousuke and Kaname walking hand in hand with each other. "Hello, Miss Chidori and Mr. Sagara. How was the trip?"
"Hi, Ren. It went pretty well, given some surprises."
Atsunobu smiles as he closes his fan and asks, "What kind of surprises, Miss Chidori?"
"It's a good thing you're sitting down right now, President Hayashimizu. Sousuke has a living relative. A cousin in Detroit Michigan."
"A cousin?" Ren, Atsunobu and Wakana all asked at the same time, shocked by this.
Wakana then asks, "How'd you find out?"
"The news. His name's Luke and he looks just like me, with one difference. He doesn't have a scar like mine. I was so surprised, I fainted."
"Wow, so the crazy otaku is human after all. What was it like, finding out about him, Sagara?"
"Not a bad experience, Tsubaki. Not a bad one at all. Matter of fact, it kinda helps having family. Even though we've started ours."
Perplexed, Ren then asks, "What do you mean, Mr. Sagara?"
Kaname smiles and replies, "We're engaged and having a baby, Ren." She then slips her left hand forward to show them the custom ring.
Ren smiles, sniffles and giggles while Atsunobu pushes his glasses up onto his nose and glances at Sousuke.
"Mr. Sagara, report."
"Sir, upon arrival in Detroit, we were accosted by a mugger intent on taking Kaname's jewelry. He did not count on Kaname wearing explosives on her ears, as he had lost his head when she crammed an earring into his mouth. Later that day, we met Luke and we had a reunion of sorts in the Police Station. That night, we made the decision to start our own family. Upon our return to New York, we became intent on spending time enjoying ourselves. Then, came the news that Luke had been abducted by a criminal organization."
Wakana drops her jaw and scowls, asking, "Is he all right?"
"Affirmative. Team Hawk extracted him from the Sho-Da-Kah's main compound in Shanghai China. He's back in Detroit right now with his girlfriend. Officer Elizabeth Davis with the Detroit Police Department." Sousuke's mind then reels as he thinks, 'I just wish I could tell them I was there. But, I just can't break cover.'
Kaname smiles as she brings up another picture. "I got this picture from Team Hawk before we returned home. It's a sunrise over Shanghai, taken from Sand Hawk's camera."
Shinji smiles and says, "I've heard of Team Hawk. They consist of Street Hawk, Sand Hawk, Ninja and War Bird. They're pretty hard to beat. In fact, I don't think they ever failed a mission. I've been reading some other items other than AS magazines and came across an article about them once. Street Hawk is assigned to a motorcycle, Sand Hawk's with a dune buggy, Ninja and War Bird reportedly share a helicopter. But, that part's not even confirmed. It's just speculation that they share it. In fact, it's even rumored that Street Hawk is able to traverse water at a high rate of speed."
"Sounds like you've been busy, Shinji. So, Kyoko, when are you and Shinji going on your date?"
"How does tomorrow night sound for a double date, Kaname?"
"Perfect, Kyoko. Maya, Mizuki, why don't you guys see about getting some watermelons so Sousuke and Officer Wakana can obliterate them? Sousuke, I'll be writing. So, please do not spray me with watermelon juice like you did last time."
"Roger." He then turns to Atsunobu and says, "I'm ready for my bag, your Excellency."
"Very good, Mr. Sagara. It's right beside my left foot. As I'm not normally curious as to it's contents, I've not opened it. I'll leave that to you."
"Roger." He then goes to Atsunobu's left side and hefts the bag onto his shoulder, a sinister smile on his face. He catches a glimpse of Kaname walking to a table, with Kyoko and Shinji close behind her. When he sees her sit down, he turns to Wakana and turns his smile to a grin, much akin to a shark's.
"Ready when you are, Officer."
"Okay. Bring out your hardware, Mr. Double Rider. While you do so, we'll wait for the girls to return with the watermelons."
"I think it's fitting for you to know who I am. Sagara. Sousuke Sagara."
"Very good, Sagara. Wakana. Yoko Wakana."
'Whack-job is more like it.' Sousuke then starts bringing out his weaponry after opening the bag. Much to his surprise, Atsunobu is looking intently at the contents as they come out.
At the table, Kaname is starting her letter.
'Dear Kim and Ron, Sousuke and I made it back without a problem. I hope Bonnie was all right when she left the terminal. She didn't look very excited about responding to her beeper. Then again, I guess a busy and hectic lifestyle will do that to a person. Please give our best to Bonnie, Hirotaka, Norman, Jane, Lily and Jessica.
Our friends were waiting for us on the tarmac, as I had called Kyoko during the flight to let her know we were on our way back home. Right now, Sousuke and Officer Wakana are getting ready for a watermelon shooting match. Right now, Kyoko and Shinji are with me. I even showed them the picture of us holding Bonnie's children. Maya Mukai said that Sousuke looks very manly holding a child. In any case, I'll hand it over to Kyoko as I'm sure she'd like to tell you or ask you some things.'
She then passes the paper to Kyoko and the bespectacled girl giggles as she writes her portion.
'Hi, Kyoko Tokiwa here. It's nice to be able to write to friends of Kaname and Sousuke's. I had been waiting a long time for Kaname to find herself a nice, clean and dependable guy. It was surprising to learn it would be Sousuke. Then again, it's really quite fitting it's him. After all, when he's around, she's a lot more energetic, making her more fun to be around. He's like a breath of fresh air with his otaku antics.
I suppose you're wondering about me. I'm a shutterbug, as I like to take pictures of strange things as they happen. Of course, a lot of pictures usually consist of Kaname and Sousuke. Either separate or together. Quite frankly, they look very good together.
There's one time that comes to mind I found to be both scary and amusing at the same time. Sousuke and Kaname were assigned to the high school's rugby team to see about bolstering their spirits for the games. Problem was, however, the rugby team was entirely pacifist. That's right, completely spineless. After an incident with Garasuyama High's rugby team, Sousuke elected to train them.
The results were astounding and devastating at the same time. At the practice game, the Captain for the Garasuyama team took a nasty kick from Sousuke's shoe when he went after Sousuke. But, that was nothing compared to their war cry and their training under Sousuke. When they were handling the rugby balls, they were talking to them and that night, their eyes were glowing a scary red. It was like some weird brainwashing that Sousuke had put them through. When they faced off, the Jindai team became quite bloodthirsty. Garasuyama never stood a chance. They had suffered more injuries that night at the hands of the Jindai Team. From that moment on, the name of Jindai High School was the same as fear in the players at Garasuyama.
Oh, I'd like to tell you something else about me. I'm seeing a very nice and shy boy named Shinji Kazama. He's about a big a buff when it comes to Arm Slaves like Sousuke is. If I had ever seen a friendship develop that fast, it's Shinji and Sousuke. They're almost like brothers as they speak the same language that buffs normally speak. Well, here's Shinji.'
Passing the paper to Shinji, Kyoko can't help but giggle as the bespectacled boy tries to find a solid opening. Shinji then snaps his fingers and begins.
'Shinji Kazama here. What Kyoko said about me is accurate, so she pretty much ruined what I had in mind. Oh, now she's shrugging while smirking. She looks so cute when she smirks. Oops, I made her blush. Sorry, Kyoko. I'd like to tell you about an event that happened with Kaname, myself and Sousuke.
One night, I went to Kaname's apartment to steal a pair of her panties, all because the older students took all my negatives of Arm Slaves I'd taken pictures of. They told me I wasn't brave enough to get close to my models. Well, in any case, I had just grabbed a pair of Kaname's panties when I felt a gun at my back and a hand over my mouth. I didn't realize until a little bit later that it was Sousuke.
Of course, he said he was just passing by. Yet, he was wearing military fatigues and armed. I told him the situation and we got to chatting. We were so intent on our conversation that we lost track of time until Kaname opened her door and saw us, her panties in Sousuke's hand and got her baseball bat. Sousuke tried to help me escape, but I had gotten caught in some bushes. Sousuke took a pretty bad blow to his head. Uh oh, I see Kaname's face is starting to go red hot. So I think I'll just mosey on out of here before she uses her halisen on me.'
At that, both Shinji and Kyoko leave Kaname be, just as Mizuki and Maya come back with the watermelons. Kaname softly strokes her belly, glad she doesn't have to do any heavy lifting during her pregnancy. When Maya and Mizuki put the watermelons down, they're nowhere near Kaname. Both girls then walk to Kaname's side, eager to see how her letter's coming along.
Maya grins as she says, "Looks like you're letting Kyoko and Shinji put their two yen in. Any room for the rest of us?"
"Yeah, sure, Maya. How about you, Mizuki?"
"Are you kidding me? I wouldn't miss this in exchange for no explosions at school."
"I don't think Sousuke would promise that, but I think he'd be willing to try. Besides, President Hayashimizu did say there'd be a section of lockers for Sousuke to blow up. Hopefully, it'll be in the rundown part of Jindai High. I think the Principal has been wanting that area to be redone in a while. And what better way to start it off than 'amateur' demolition work by our resident otaku?"
Both Maya and Mizuki nod and giggle their agreement, just as gunshots erupt on the beach. All three girls look toward the competition zone and see both Wakana and Sousuke are blindfolded.
Before that point in time, just as Sousuke is bringing out his weaponry, Ren remembers the last time he annihilated a watermelon.
"Mr. Sagara?"
"Yes, Miss Mikihara?"
"Will you be blindfolded like last time? I found your skill to be quite exemplary."
"Affirmative."
A confused Wakana asks, "What do you mean by blindfolded?"
Ono-D chuckles as he brings out the blindfolds and explains, "Mizuki told me about that last month. I'd like to see it as well, Sousuke. Officer Wakana, would you like to try it as well?"
Wakana ponders about that for three seconds before replying, a crazed cackle leaving her mouth, "Sure. HAHAHAHA! It'll make it even more interesting." At that, he blindfolds both contestants as Wakana brings out a P90 submachine gun and primes it. "Let's get this party started! HAHAHAHAHA!"
Ren and Ono-D both chuckle before Ren replies, "First, we need to spin you around, to make things more interesting. It's the same way they did Mr. Sagara that summer." At that point, Shinji and Kyoko return to the group just as Maya and Mizuki are returning with the watermelons.
"I've never seen Kaname that angry, Shinji. Next time you feel like being an underwear thief, try me." That gets Shinji's nose to start bleeding before he passes out. "All right, let's bust these watermelons wide open."
Ono-D takes Sousuke while Kyoko and Ren take Wakana and spin them both around. Both Maya and Mizuki put the watermelons down, far away from Kaname and join her at the table just as the spinning stops.
Sousuke brings up his Franchi SPAS 15 and triggers the first round, completely decimating the watermelon.
Pleased with Sousuke's shot, Ren says, "Hit and total destruction, Mr. Sagara. Your turn, Officer Wakana."
"Great!" At that, Wakana lets loose a volley of rounds from the P90 and sprays from one side to another, cutting a watermelon in half and scattering a group of beach-goers.
"Hit, Officer Wakana. You cut it in half. However, you also scared quite a few people and came close to hitting them. Would you like us to aim you?"
"If it's not a whole lot of trouble for you, please." With that, Ren and Kyoko aim Wakana at the next watermelon.
Ren then smiles and says, "You're up, Mr. Sagara."
"Roger." Priming the SPAS again, he selects the next watermelon and annihilates it. "What a simple game. With this skill level, I could have a very good time with this."
Ono-D chuckles as he says, "Another destructive hit for Sousuke. Officer, you're up."
"Roger that." Triggering another volley of rounds, she cuts another watermelon into pieces.
"Excellent, we have watermelon chunks. It's a tie, however. Both contestants are highly skilled, without a doubt. Even more, there are no more watermelons to shoot. The match is a definite draw. We can do it again at a later time if you like."
Wakana smiles at Ono-D's words as she removes the blindfold and says, "Nah. I'll give this match to Sousuke. After all, the object was to completely destroy watermelons. He did that while blindfolded. Sousuke, I'll work on my blindfolded shooting techniques. Just keep yourself and Miss Blue Hair safe."
"I will. It was interesting shooting with you, Officer Yoko Wakana."
"Likewise, Sousuke Sagara." At that, she conceals her P90 as she leaves the beach and returns to her Patrol car.
After the competition ends, Kaname looks toward Maya and Mizuki and smiles. "Looks like Sousuke won this one, guys."
Mizuki nods in agreement as she gets ready to do her portion.
'Hello, Mizuki Inaba here. I'm not exactly a friend of Kaname's. More like an acquaintance of sorts. We started as something akin to rivals then became acquaintances with each other. But we're working on being friends. In any case, Sousuke and Officer Wakana just had a shooting competition involving watermelons and being blindfolded while shooting them. Strange but true. In any case, Sousuke won.
I'd better tell you something about myself before I lose track of what's going on. I'm something of a show-off and I hold a mean grudge at times. I know I did against Kaname when Shirai dumped me in the restroom. You see, Shirai wanted Kaname. So I blamed her for it. I had Sousuke pose as Shirai before I realized that I wanted Shirai to be hurt, like he had hurt me. I don't think he's paid off his credit cards yet, though. I wanted so desperately to save face I made the decision to have Sousuke pose as Shirai.
Here's some tips for saving face. One; just tell your friends what had happened. They'll understand. Two; don't try changing someone to fit the one that dumped you. Three, and this is key; if he tries to help you save face by kissing you, don't slug him after he does so. Even though the kiss was unexpected, it was rather nice. Even though Sousuke didn't know a thing about kissing. Kaname later told me that he thought it was mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. I laughed for hours after that, as did Kaname.
Let it never be said that Sousuke will do a job halfway. He will do everything possible to do anything. Be it from making your life a living nightmare to being the best friend you can ever hope for. I'm glad I'm realizing that now, as I have a new boyfriend. His name's Issei Tsubaki. He's the Captain of the Amateur Karate Club. I think I'll have him include his thoughts about Sousuke.'
She then passes the paper to a smiling Maya and smiles as Maya starts writing.
'Maya Mukai here. Here's a story you might like. It involves Sousuke being a hero one minute and a pervert the next. We were in a shop, having a snack, when a guy left his briefcase behind. Kaname grabbed it up and Sousuke went right after her, knocking down a table in the process. Kaname had gone out into the street to get his attention when a truck blared it's horn.
I had never been so scared and neither had any of us, let alone Kaname. Next thing we knew, Sousuke had tackled Kaname and plowed them into a playground across the street. As for the truck, somehow it had gotten a smashed-in front end. Without any traffic in front of it. Strange, very strange indeed. The guy reclaimed his briefcase and we checked to see how Kaname and Sousuke were. They weren't too badly injured, yet Sousuke's hand was on very dangerous territory.
The poor guy didn't even know where his hand was. But, Kaname took it the wrong way and slugged him after calling him a pervert. But, to us, he'll always be a hero because Kaname is our friend. If she had died, we would have been devastated. Injuries can heal, but broken hearts cannot. That is all I have time for.'
Maya hands the paper back to Kaname and smiles at her approving nod.
Kaname then says, "Let's get some watermelon, guys, before the others finish off what's left."
Mizuki nods and replies, "Okay, Kaname. Besides, I'm sure that Issei, Ono-D, Ren and President Hayashimizu have something to say about Sousuke." Kaname and Maya both crack up at that as all three of them leave the table and make their way to the gathering. Sure enough, the remainder have a few things to say.
Issei accepts the paper and starts writing.
"Issei Tsubaki here. The others have glowing references when it comes to Sagara, but I don't. I still view him as sneaky, dirty, underhanded, uncivilized and downright dangerous, given that he uses weapons and distractions to win his fights. Even more, one time, he detonated my letter of challenge to him. That's right, he detonated it! Even more, he does that to every letter he gets.
I can't see why Kaname can't find a safer guy to be around. One that honors pure unarmed combat instead of the kind that Sagara favors. At the same time, however, I wonder what it would be like to be as dirty as he is when it comes to fights. I mean, he defeated the entire Karate Club using his methods.
For the first one, he used a shotgun with a rubber slug. The second, gas. For the third one, he used a grenade as a decoy and pummeled him in the groin. But when I went up against him, he nearly died when I used a potentially deadly technique against him. To my surprise and Kaname's, he had survived it. I was in the process of preparing to finish him off when Kaname distracted me. You see, I'm nearsighted and can't see much of anything without my glasses. Long story short, he punched me and I was knocked out of the Dojo.
For the life of me, I will say this much for him. If he was to join the Military, the enemy would not stand a snowball's chance in Hell. As he would use every single dirty trick he knows to defeat them. In a way, I kinda feel sorry for the potential enemies he would come across. Later.'
He then passes it to Ono-D and the blond boy starts writing.
'Dotaro Onodera here, but my friends call me Ono-D. I can't say a lot of negative or positive things about Sousuke. But, I will say this much. If an enemy was to come to the high school, they'd better start praying when Sousuke's around. Hopefully, we won't have that weird bacteria at the high school again. No, it'd be preferable if they were in Art Class with him instead.
I mean, if he can create traps with things around him you can find in nature, imagine what he can do with things not found in nature. I'm glad he's a friend and I also find he'd be very scary as an enemy. He nearly drowned me in swimming class when we were learning about Synchro. In fact, he nearly drowned the entire male class. He had asked Shinji what Synchro was and Shinji told it to him in Military terms. Big mistake, it was.
He nearly drowned Shinji, me and eight other boys. The next one looked at him and saw his doom. When Shinji regained consciousness later, he told me that he had seen a dark aura around Sousuke. Like he was possessed by an evil demon.
The other boys were so frightened, they were calling out that they didn't want to die. Of course, Kaname set him on the right path and survived. The Synchro Coach was so impressed, he offered Sousuke a spot, but Sousuke refused. I tell you, that guy was much stranger than Sousuke is. I just hope he doesn't want Sousuke this time. Well, this is Ono-D and I'm gone.'
After Ono-D hands the paper to Ren, the quiet, purple-haired girl softly smiles and starts writing.
'Ren Mikihara here. Mr. Sagara and Miss Chidori are friends of mine, though Mr. Sagara's idea of friendship is slightly askew. Yet, he doesn't mean any harm. In a way, he's actually very pleasant to be around. He always tries his best to keep a situation calm, but he doesn't always succeed. Given the choice between clothes-eating bacteria and explosions in the school, however, I'd pick the explosions any day.
Because every time Mr. Sagara does a detonation, he knows what the situation is and gives ample warning. Or at least he seems to anyway. The clothes-eating bacteria wasn't really his fault and he did warn us not to open the bottle. Even more, he tried to keep the situation contained until Mr. Fujisaki got tired of the screaming and breached the door seals that Mr. Sagara had put up.
Quite frankly, I'm glad Mr. Sagara came into our lives. Without him around, school would certainly be safe and boring. I will now turn this over to Atsunobu Hayashimizu, Student Body President of Jindai High School.'
She then passes the paper to Atsunobu, who nods and says, "Thank you, Miss Mikihara." With that, he starts his portion.
'President Hayashimizu here. I see a lot of testimonials regarding Mr. Sagara, our school's Security Expert. I will open up with this. Mr. Sagara is one of the finest people I have ever had the pleasure to meet. I even had the opportunity to help Mr. Sagara in rescuing Miss Chidori by providing information on a gang leader and her group.
When we learned what had happened, I told Mr. Sagara to match them blow by blow. Or, in his terms, "tactic for tactic". Ever since that day, there has not been any reprisals from the gang that he had gone up against.
Of course, the time of the bacteria was memorable, yet preferred to be forgotten about and gotten past. But, at least with Mr. Sagara, there's never a dull moment. All the explosions, chaos and insanity aside, he's really a nice young man trying to make sense of the world around him. Even though it's not very sensible. I will now turn you over to Miss Chidori.'
Atsunobu smiles as he passes the paper back to Kaname, allowing Kaname to write.
'I never imagined this letter would get so long. Of course, I didn't expect to have the idea to let my friends write their minds down. Believe it or not, every single incident they had described happened. For that, I'm very glad because they allow Sousuke to see things as they're supposed to be. Even when his Military-set brain interprets it to be otherwise. I'll pass you on over to Sousuke now.'
Kaname softly smiles at Sousuke as he accepts the paper and starts writing.
'Sousuke here. I'm glad Kaname saved me for last as what I have to write you is of a highly classified nature.' He looks at the others and nods his signal for privacy. The others nod back and walk away, feeling downtrodden, except for Kaname and Atsunobu. "Your Excellency, what I have in mind for my portion is not exactly meant for your eyes."
"I understand, Mr. Sagara. Your honesty is refreshing and respected. As a result, I respect your wish for privacy. Miss Chidori, please be kind enough to let us know when Mr. Sagara is finished."
"I will, President Hayashimizu." As Atsunobu leaves them be, Kaname turns to Sousuke and asks, "Why'd you say that, Sousuke? If he has suspicions, he should at least have them confirmed."
"If they're to be confirmed, it'll be by Mithril, not me, Kaname. After all, I am here undercover to guard you. I just didn't expect falling in love with you or even developing an emotional attachment to you."
"Yeah, I know what you mean, Sousuke. If a strange man had told me five years ago that my dream guy would be a teenage super-mega-ultra-commando, I'd have been skeptical myself, if not found that man to be crazy. Even more, if he had told me that said commando would turn my world upside-down without intending to, he would have gotten hit with my halisen. To top it all off, if he had told me that the same commando would be the only thing standing between me and death, I would have punched him silly."
She then smiles and says, "I'm glad it didn't happen that way. Of course, a little advance warning would have been helpful. But, it's not a problem."
"Affirmative." With that, Sousuke blushes as he resumes writing, much to Kaname's glee.
'I had to disperse our classmates so they wouldn't see that I'm writing about my knowledge of you all being Team Hawk. With that said, I'd like to extend an invitation for the month after next back to Merida Island during the teacher's work period. During our time there, I can teach Ron and anyone else interested how to pilot an M9 Gernsback Arm Slave. Hopefully, he or they will have better luck than Madam Captain.
You see, she had challenged Sgt. Major Mao to an Arm Slave duel because of a silly argument involving something only they know about. Since her experience was sorely lacking, she asked me to teach her in piloting an AS. Little did I realize I had my work cut out for me. That was further evidenced when she took an M9 for a swim. Without the proper equipment attached to it.
That's right. She sank an M9 without even trying. Ultimately, she settled on an old Mithril M6 Bushnell. Of course, Sgt. Major Mao was incredulous. After all, given the specs of the M6 versus an M9, it would seem to be no contest against the newer M9. But, Madam Captain's determination saw her through and she won. That's all I can safely say about my foray into teaching. Yet, I think that you and the others would make excellent teachers if you were to go that way. Sagara out.'
He then passes the paper back to a smiling Kaname and blushes when she kisses his cheek. "That was beautiful writing, Sousuke. So, while you were teaching Tessa to pilot an Arm Slave, what else did she do other than taking it for a swim?"
"Well, before the impromptu swim, she was climbing up the ladder when she lost her grip and fell onto me. She then said that she was all right and also feeling kind of lucky. What she meant by that, I have no idea at all. I was ready to get up off of the ground, but she wouldn't get up off of me. I wound up dragging myself along the beach, with her on top of me and giggling for some strange reason."
'Hmm, if I were to fall onto Sousuke from an Arm Slave, it wouldn't be by accident or clothed. HAHAHAHA! I'd certainly be giggling, though. I think I'll do that during our honeymoon after Sousuke Jr is born. Wait a minute! That picture in Tessa's safe! It coincides with what Sousuke told me and partly what Tessa told me. An M9 is pretty recognizable. He was on the beach teaching her to pilot an M9.'
Kaname then puts the paper down onto the table and straddles Sousuke's waist. "Uh, Kaname?"
"Shh, you'll like this, Sousuke. Don't worry, I have nothing naughty in mind, yet. But that can change, though. That can certainly change. Especially since I'm wearing my white bikini." She gets up off of him, smirks and adds, "I'll be right back, sweetie." At that, she walks toward a nearby cabana, leaving a sweating, dazed and nervous Sousuke on the beach.
The others see what has happened and resolve to leave the two lovebirds in peace. However, Kyoko can't help but giggle as she snaps a quick picture of Sousuke on the chair, sweating, dazed and nervous.
'The Principal and Miss Kagurazaka should see this moment in time. "Sweating otaku in love with fiery beauty". It'll be one of my finest pictures.' She then ducks in time to avoid being seen by a bikini-clad Kaname coming out of the cabana, a seductive smile on her face.
When she gets to Sousuke, she plants herself firmly into Sousuke's lap and tenderly kisses him. Sousuke snaps out of it in time to return the affection. As the couple kiss, Kaname takes Sousuke's right hand and puts it onto her belly.
"That's us in there, Sousuke. Of course, he'll mostly be you. But, his childhood will be a lot smoother than yours was. I know you didn't have the best childhood, Sousuke. But, you still turned out pretty much okay."
"Affirmative." With his hand on her belly still, he softly strokes the bump, a soft smile on his face. "I've ended so many lives, so I guess it's fitting I take part in giving a new one to the world."
"That's right, Sousuke. Of course, the lives you ended were of those that sought to do harm to innocent people all over the world. I now understand why you went through it all so stoically. It's to keep your distance, that way if you save lives in the process, then no one would have to go through what you did."
She then smiles, gets up and lifts Sousuke out of the chair, saying, "Let's go to your place, Sousuke. I'm feeling a little run down. Besides, we gotta get this letter sent off to Kim and Ron."
"Roger."
At that, the young couple gather their belongings, with Sousuke bearing the burden, and head for Sousuke's apartment. They arrive at the train station and buy two tickets for the Tamagawa District of Tokyo. Upon arrival at Tamagawa, Kaname and Sousuke walk to his apartment building, take an elevator once inside and hold each others' hands.
Kaname smiles at the thought of seeing Sousuke's apartment for the first time since Tessa's last visit. "Do you think you'll have to clean the place up, Sousuke?"
"Probably so, Kaname. After all, I hadn't been in here for three months. It's bound to be very dusty in here." When they reach his floor, they walk along the hallway, only to see his door is ajar.
Both teens think, 'Not good!' as they take in the scene. The protector within him stirring, he hands a pair of ear plugs to Kaname, motions her to put them in as he draws his Glock 17. Waving her to the staircase behind him, he brings out a flash-bang. When Kaname is safely behind him, he goes to the door and slowly opens it.
Seeing no one in the space between the door and the apartment, Sousuke keeps the Glock aimed right at the door as he nears it. Seeing it ajar, he pulls out the pin on the flash-bang. He then kicks the door open and throws it in, covering his ears in time to ward off the shockwave of sound. Once it had gone by, he enters the apartment and sweeps it until he sees a face he hadn't expected to see until the next month.
"Not good!" Going back outside, he sees Kaname wearing a scowl as she removes the ear plugs from her ears. "Kaname, before you yell at me, there's something you need to see."
"What's that, Sousuke? New gun racks from Mithril?"
"Negative. It seems as if we have company."
"Company? Who'd be so brazen as to enter your place without permission, Sousuke? Other than a hostile intruder, that is."
Sousuke nods in agreement before saying, "Believe me, she was the last person I'd expect."
"She?" When he tells her, her jaw drops right down before she starts throttling him. "How can you do such a thing? If she didn't think you were dangerous before, then she knows now, Lieutenant Lunacy!"
"If I had known she was in there, I wouldn't have used that approach, Kaname."
"What would you have used, you lunatic?" She then sighs and says, "We better face the music, Sousuke. I hope you at least covered the equipment in the room before we left Tokyo."
"Affirmative. It's a good thing I didn't rig a fragmentation hand grenade to the doorway. Otherwise, Miss Kagurazaka would have died in the blast." Kaname nods in agreement as the two teens go inside to see Eri Kagurazaka coming out of the daze.
The woman had let her red hair grow somewhat longer and her grey eyes are starting to focus. "Oh, do either of you have an aspirin? Sagara, why did you detonate a grenade in here?"
Sousuke replies, "Affirmative. I have some aspirin in the Medical Kit. Kaname, you'll find it in the cupboard."
"Roger." As Kaname goes to the cupboard, Sousuke turns back to Miss Kagurazaka.
"As to your second question, I was not expecting anyone to be in here when we returned, teacher. My apologies. But, what are you doing in my apartment?"
"Trying to find out how much of an otaku you are, Sagara. To be honest, I found quite a few things that your average otaku doesn't have."
"What would that be, exactly?"
"A well-equipped communications set-up, covered by a tablecloth, a rack full of rifles and other weapons and a closet filled with grenades of every kind. But, the thing that got my attention the most was this." She then brings out a piece of paper with a hole on it. Unfolding it, she asks, "Do you know this man, Sagara?"
"Affirmative. Or perhaps I should say knew, ma'am."
"Sousuke, here's the Medical Kit. Oh, is this a bad time?"
"Negative, Kaname. It seems Miss Kagurazaka has found Gauron's picture." The sound of the Kit hitting the floor is audible as the two teens and one adult look at each other. He then asks, "How long have you been in here, Miss Kagurazaka?"
"Ever since the day you left Tokyo, Sagara. But, I don't understand why you have the picture of the man that hijacked our flight and took Miss Chidori from the plane."
Sousuke sighs and replies, "He was my worst enemy, Miss Kagurazaka. His name was Gauron, a brutal mercenary. I first came across him in Afghanistan, when I was only a boy. An older man from Russia came across me after our camp was destroyed by Gauron. Together, we vowed to seek revenge. The man was the decoy and I was the sniper. It wasn't until some time later that I found out Gauron was still alive. The shot was at a shallow angle and he had a titanium plate in his head from a previous injury."
"What do you mean by 'was', Sagara? Just how would you describe him?"
"He was harder to kill than a ninja cockroach, Miss Kagurazaka. As to your first question, he's dead for sure now. I gave a friend of mine Gauron's head as a trophy. Or at least what's left of it."
Miss Kagurazaka gulps and cringes at the imagery as she asks, "How'd it happen? What exactly are you, Sagara?"
"I shot him, point blank range, as did Street Hawk. It was in Shanghai China when it happened. Street Hawk nailed him in the chest and I nailed Gauron in his head. For added measure, I took a wedge of C-4 and blew his corpse apart. As for what I am, I'm a mercenary, assigned to Miss Chidori's protection. Over time, we fell in love with each other."
"But, how? What does she need protection for?"
"I'm sorry, Miss Kagurazaka. I cannot tell you as I do not have the specifics myself. Neither does Kaname, as my superior Officer has undoubtedly told her bits and pieces at a time. Essentially, I'm Kaname's Life Insurance Agent and Policy. Given the current circumstances, it goes even further."
"Current circumstances?" Miss Kagurazaka finally looks over at Kaname and sees two things. The ring on her left ring finger and the same hand stroking her belly. She then looks at Kaname's face and sees a soft, happy smile as she looks over at Sousuke. "You mean?"
"Affirmative. We're engaged to be married and Kaname is with child." With those words, Eri Kagurazaka faints dead away. "I'd say she took the news better here than usually at school, Kaname."
"I'll say, Sousuke. But, we should work on your news delivery skills, just the same. Wouldn't you agree, sweetie?"
"Hmm, affirmative." With that, Sousuke props Miss Kagurazaka up on the couch and goes to his radio set-up. "This is Urzu 7 to HQ. Urzu 7 to HQ. Request connection to TDD-1 Control. Over."
"HQ, roger Urzu 7. Connecting now." Two minutes later, both teens hear the voice of Commander Richard Mardukas.
"Urzu 7, this is the Commander. What is your situation? Over." Sousuke explains the situation and, after some deep breathing, asks, "Can she be trusted, Lieutenant?"
"She found my equipment by herself, sir. Even more, she is an innocent and our teacher. She even found Gauron's picture, sir."
"I see. Very well, I'll leave her in your capable hands, Lieutenant." At that, communication ends, allowing Sousuke and Kaname to ponder.
Two hours later, Miss Kagurazaka comes out of it, feeling like she was having a very weird and bad dream. She then feels a cold cloth against her forehead, opens her eyes and sees Kaname.
"Hello, Miss Chidori. I just had the most hideous dream. No, make that nightmare."
"What happened, Teacher?"
"I was in Sagara's apartment and he had all kinds of equipment. Guns, grenades, radio set-up. He even had a picture of the leader of the hijackers. He then told me he was a mercenary, assigned to protect you. Even more, that was after he used a grenade in the room."
"Maybe you should rest more often, Teacher. Either that or stop watching war movies."
"Oh, that's not the worst part."
"What was that, Teacher?"
"You were engaged to him and also having his baby. That was when I blacked out in my dream." She then looks around and says, "This does not look like my apartment, Miss Chidori. Are we in yours?"
"Negative. We're in Sousuke's place. As for it being a dream or nightmare, I'm afraid not. It's actually happening. Miss Kagurazaka, meet my Fiance and the Father of the baby inside me. Sousuke Sagara, Lieutenant of Mithril."
"Lieutenant? Mithril?"
"Affirmative, ma'am. My call sign is Urzu 7, ID number is B-3128. I'm a Specialist, assigned to Mithril's Pacific Theater with the Special Response Team. Essentially, I'm here as Kaname's protection."
Miss Kagurazaka, stunned, asks, "What exactly is Mithril and why are you here to protect Miss Chidori?"
"Essentially, we wipe out drug factories and terrorist camps. We're mercenaries on the side of Justice. As to my assignment, it started the moment I entered the school grounds. It was to be without Kaname's knowledge or anyone else's. That all changed when we went on our school trip."
"Gauron?"
"Affirmative. He had taken Kaname to a mobile laboratory to have a scientist do experiments on her. I got her out while my colleagues got the others out."
Miss Kagurazaka's face pales as she says, "The Rescue Unit that claimed to be with the UN."
"Affirmative. We have reach just about anywhere on the planet and within some organizations."
"That Arm Slave pilot, the woman's voice from it, she told me that Kaname was on another flight. I was curious as to how she knew Kaname's name. Was she one of yours as well?"
"Also affirmative. She was my NCOIC, my field superior, you might say. I was a Sergeant back then. But, as luck would have it, we missed both planes. As we were making our way through the forest, we came across another one of my comrades, Urzu 6."
Kaname steps in from there. "His Arm Slave was utterly destroyed when a round from it's weapon bounced right back at him. I don't have the details of how exactly, just that it was. Later, Sousuke got the idea for me to go by myself while he and Urzu 6 stayed behind to buy me time to escape. But, I wouldn't have it. We were so close after I pleaded with him, we almost kissed. I then had the silly idea that if friendly aircraft could see a signal, then we'd be rescued. Urzu 6 then reminded Sousuke of one key piece of equipment an excellent organization like Mithril needs to operate at full capacity."
"What's that, Miss Chidori?"
"A spy satellite, Miss Kagurazaka. Or rather, a series of them. Our spy satellites circle the globe every twelve hours over specific points of potential trouble spots. Before leaving on the mission, Urzu 6 was shown a picture of the base. However, there was a catch to the plan. The cloud cover was very thick, so it was a very slim chance the satellite could see it. As I headed out to make the message, Kaname and Urzu 6 remained behind to await my return."
"Since they got your message undoubtedly, how did you get out?"
"Al."
"Al?"
"Affirmative. Or perhaps I should say the Arm Slave I'm currently assigned to. The ARX-7 'Arbalest'. The AI's call sign is 'Al'. When my colleagues got the message, they sent 'Al' via ballistic missile to near our position. Once I had gotten inside, I received a recorded message from my Commander with the 'SRT'. He explained that our base of operations was running parallel to the shore and would meet us at a specific time. We nearly didn't make it, but, thanks to Kaname, we did."
"What did you do, Kaname?"
"I'm not entirely sure myself, Miss Kagurazaka. But, know this. Sousuke and I are taking a massive chance in trusting you. Under normal circumstances, Sousuke would kill those that find out about him. Especially if they don't have his clearance or if he suspects treachery. Please, don't tell anyone about what we told you in good faith."
In a daze, Miss Kagurazaka turns to Sousuke and asks, "Have you ever killed anyone other than that Gauron guy?"
"Affirmative. I've killed men so evil, the less you know about them, the easier you'll sleep."
Gulping, she then asks, "Were there ever traitors to Mithril?"
Kaname nods and replies, "Two of them, on the mobile base. One killed a guy watching Gauron with him and helped Gauron escape. Another killed an Officer with the 'SRT'. His body was being dragged into a corner when I came upon the scene. Tessa helped me make a break for it and I met back up with Sousuke."
"Tessa? You mean Miss Testarossa?"
"Affirmative. She's my Captain and our friend, Miss Kagurazaka. Don't let her age fool you. She truly is one of my superior Officers."
"Then I was too late in telling you not to show her your dangerously twisted perspective of the world, as she had already seen it. She must be very strong to go through the madness you put her through, along with Miss Chidori. It's a wonder I haven't lost my mind yet."
"While it's true the Captain is strong, as is Kaname, but she's still human like Kaname is. Perhaps more human than I am. When we got to our island base, Kaname encouraged me to cheer her up. Instead, she wound up crying on my shoulder. We had lost two good men, all because of two traitors on the mobile base and someone in one of our higher offices."
Slumping her head down, she asks, "What were their names and did they have families?"
"Leading Seaman Lian Shaopin and Lieutenant Gail McAllen. They were both with the 'SRT'. As to if they had families or not, I'm not entirely sure. The traitors were dumped at sea, as was supposedly Gauron. Somehow, that man had survived the blast when Venom self-destructed. As I said earlier, he was harder to kill than a ninja cockroach. Here, let me show you something." Sousuke then removes his fatigue shirt, revealing a tank top. Miss Kagurazaka can't help but gasp at the amount of scars and his muscle tone.
"This scar on my upper left bicep is from a bullet fired by one of the traitors. He was trying to kill Kaname, but I wouldn't let him. In the end, he took four bullets in his chest and died. I apologized to Kaname for my remarks earlier and we joined forces to save the day."
Getting a cross look on her face, Miss Kagurazaka asks, "What apology and what remarks?"
"Uh."
"Well?"
"Ma'am, a piece of equipment on 'Arbalest' failed to activate, resulting in an injury to one of my comrades. After Gauron had been taken prisoner, I returned to the mobile base. That's when 'it' happened. Kaname tried to console me, but I felt like I should punish myself because my colleague had gotten hurt. I said some pretty hurtful things to Kaname and she ran off. When Urzu 6 confronted me, he told me I made her cry." He then looks over at Kaname and she sits down beside him, taking his hand into hers.
Kaname takes over. "When Sousuke found me, I was in the Galley, fighting for my life against the traitor that Sousuke ultimately killed. He apologized to me and told me that I'm not a burden. If it hadn't been for me, he'd be dead already. Literally. He's still alive because I've always been around for him. Before my return flight, Sousuke invited me to do some fishing with him. Almost immediately, I had a fish on the line. Of course, I would have gone swimming if it hadn't been for Sousuke. He wrapped his arms around me from behind. It was so delightful. But, the fish got away."
"Darn. It must have been strong, going up against you two. So, did you do any swimming during that time?"
"Well, now that you mention it, Lieutenant Lunacy here had gotten a message during our flight during our trip there. He had me change into my bathing suit, attached a harness to me when I came back out and hurled us both out the door. In mid-air, no less."
Miss Kagurazaka's eyebrow twitches as she asks, "You jumped, out of an airplane, in mid-air, just because you got a message?"
"Affirmative, ma'am. It seems that a chemical weapons storage facility had been taken control of. Gauron was in charge of the group. Of course, we didn't find out until it was too late it was part of a plan to take control of our base and destroy it."
"Well, it's a good thing you survived. I'll keep it to myself, Sousuke and Kaname. Even though I find it hard to believe, I know you're telling me the truth. Sousuke, just how long was your assignment supposed to be?"
"Initially, it was supposed to be until we had destroyed the KGB's facility. But, my superior decided some Insurance would be in order for Kaname."
"So that's what you meant by you're her Insurance Agent and Policy. It even extends to the child within Kaname. Any names come to mind?"
"Actually, we already have a name selected, Miss Kagurazaka."
"What's that, Kaname?"
"Sagara. Sousuke Sagara Jr."
"I don't know if I should be proud or frightened of you, given your reputation, Sagara. Could I get a closer look at the ring, Kaname?"
"Sure." She then extends her left hand to Miss Kagurazaka and smiles as she explains it. "Sousuke decided to blend our two worlds together. The Cherry Blossom for mine and the grenade for Sousuke's. I must admit, being around Sousuke has paid off rather well. The grenade is that of the baseball-shaped fragmentation grenade. The detail is quite extraordinary."
Miss Kagurazaka can only sigh and chuckle as she backs away from Kaname's hand. "Indeed it is, Miss Chidori. Sousuke, did you ever save lives before coming here to Tokyo?"
"Affirmative. Before our mission here, we dealt with a situation in Khabarovsk."
"An old Soviet suburb?"
"Affirmative, Miss Kagurazaka. Are you sure you're only a civilian teacher?"
Miss Kagurazaka can only laugh as she replies, "I'm sure, Sousuke. So, what happened?"
"We had gotten word that a Soviet Soldier was going to help a young woman escape from a KGB facility. Myself, Urzus 2 and 6 were assigned to assist in the extraction. However, an enemy Hind knocked the vehicle off of the road, killing the Soldier. The young woman had been thrown clear of the vehicle. The Hind's pilot then decided to play a game of 'Cat and Mouse' with her."
Kaname asks, "How'd he play it?"
"With the Hind's guns. I felt that enough was enough. I had my M9 release a hidden compartment, with an Anti-Armor Dagger inside it. I had the M9 throw the dagger and it went into the side of the Hind. Then, it started listing toward the young woman. I then grabbed the Hind and moved it away from the young woman before throwing it to the ground."
Miss Kagurazaka asks, "Why didn't you use 'Arbalest'?"
"Back then, I didn't have access to it. Besides, I'm used to the M9, but I'm also working on improving my relation skills with the AI."
"I see. But, that move you were talking about. Wrestling a Hind to the ground? I didn't think it would be possible."
"That's Sousuke for you. He can give you conclusions on certain things based on their specs. That includes their capability when it comes to doing things like that. I even had the opportunity to sit in an M9 with my limbs in the control waldos. I guess you might say I felt kinda like Sousuke must have felt when he sat in an M9 for the first time. Of course, he'd be subdued about the whole thing, but I was excited."
Miss Kagurazaka nods before remembering what Sousuke had said earlier and says, "A while ago, you said you shot Gauron while Street Hawk did the same thing. Why was Street Hawk there with you?"
"He was helping me rescue my cousin, Luke."
Miss Kagurazaka's eyes bulge out as she asks, "You have a cousin? Named Luke?"
"Affirmative." He then goes on to tell her about Gauron having created the Sho-Da-Kah, Mithril and Team Hawk joining forces and Luke's rescue. Along with when Kaname had told him about her news. Miss Kagurazaka takes it well, for the most part.
"I'll be back in a couple of hours." She then passes right out again.
Kaname can't help but chuckle as she says, "If she took it that well, I'd say it's a good thing you didn't tell her we saw Team Hawk's members' faces."
"Affirmative. Thinking of which, I believe we have a letter to send off, Kaname."
"Indeed we do, Sousuke."
At that, Kaname puts the letter into an envelope and Sousuke puts the necessary postage onto it. Kaname then writes the destination and return addresses onto the envelope. When she's done, Sousuke nods, takes the letter to the nearest mail receptacle and drops it on in.
"I hope you're well, Team Hawk." As Sousuke goes back into the building, a shadowy figure is lurking in the shadows, looking toward Sousuke's apartment.
The figure then smiles and says, "Very soon, Miss Chidori. You will be away and free from that otaku loser." As the figure makes to walk away, it trips and knocks over a garbage can. "Who put that there?"
Back inside the apartment, Kaname is feeling like she's being watched. Heading for the window, she hears a trash can being knocked over and figures it was a stray cat. She then looks around the apartment and sees that Sousuke still doesn't have one thing that a regular person does.
"He still doesn't have a television in here. When he comes back inside, I'll ask him to bring my television over from the apartment. Tomorrow, I'll arrange for switching the addresses over to here. Just one more thing to help Sousuke adapt to Japanese society even more." Her face then pales as she imagines the unlikely.
'Sousuke, as a couch potato? Not good or happening! He's going to stay active, with only an hour of television per day, just to get him started a little at a time.'
"A nuclear warhead for your thoughts, Kaname."
Kaname giggles as she turns around, wraps her arms around Sousuke's trunk and buries her head into his chest. "Nothing much, Sousuke. Just thought of another way to help you integrate into Japanese society a little more."
"How's that, Kaname?"
"You don't have a television set, Sousuke. Don't you get bored, just from watching me or cleaning your guns?"
"Negative. Before, they were part of my job. Now, cleaning guns is a task while watching over you will be enjoyable."
Both teens blush at that before Kaname clears her throat and goes on. "That's very sweet of you, Sousuke. In any case, if you're going to convince people that you are what you appear to be, you're going to need a television set in here. In your case, we'll start off small. An hour per day, just to get you started. Since you're the active type, an hour would be all you'd need to unwind with."
"Roger. Any ideas as to where I could get one from? I'm afraid the major stores are closed right now."
"It's not a problem, Sousuke. You could bring the television from my apartment. Here's my key."
"Roger. I'm guessing you'll be having the bills sent here from now on."
"That's right, Sousuke." She then pecks Sousuke's lips and softly says, "Be careful, honey."
"I will, sweetie." Before he can step out the door, Kaname lets out a yelp. "Kaname?"
Looking back toward her, he sees she has a smile on her face. "Kaname, what is it?"
"He moved. Our baby moved, Sousuke. Here, give me your hand." Kaname takes Sousuke's hand and puts it onto her belly. Three seconds later, Sousuke and Kaname feel the baby move. "I can already tell he's going to be like you, Sousuke. You may be good at standing still, but you're always on the move." Kaname can't help but giggle at the contradiction in terms.
She then looks at Sousuke's face and sees his usual perplexed look. "You all right, honey?"
"Affirmative, darling. It's just that I'm experiencing this and it's a lot to take in. I can't even find the words to describe how I feel."
"Yeah, I know what you mean, Sousuke. But, I promise you this. No matter what happens, our baby will have the childhood that you were so cruelly denied. Your parents may not have seen you grow up, but I bet they'll be very proud of you. I know I am." She then cups her palm into Sousuke's cheek and kisses him softly, adding, "It's a good thing the morning sickness passed. I'm thinking about eating tonight."
"Anything in particular, Kaname?"
"Yeah. When you go back out after bringing the television here, bring back a Naco with chocolate syrup, if you please."
"Naco with chocolate syrup, roger." As Sousuke leaves the apartment building, he elects to go to the Tamagawa District's Bueno Nacho and then to Kaname's apartment to get her television.
Three minutes later, Kaname is thinking about the classes that she and Sousuke would be taking together. Suddenly, there's a knock at the door. Remembering she's in Sousuke's apartment, she goes to one of the points he has handguns at and brings out a .44 magnum Desert Eagle.
"I may be pregnant, but I'm still strong enough to handle this piece. Or at least I hope so." Priming it, she goes to the door, Desert Eagle in hand, and asks, "Who is it?"
"Miss Chidori, it's the guy who wants to be your main squeeze still."
At that point, Kaname is sorely tempted to fire off a round through the door. "Mr. Shirai, get this through your thick head. I am not interested in a relationship with you. Even with your membership in the JSDF. How'd you know where I was anyway?"
"Mizuki called me three hours ago, on post, and preened about how you and Sagara are getting married and having a baby. Please tell me it's not true!"
"Actually, it is." Kaname can't help but smile cruelly as she hears Shirai's moan and groan. "Why did you join the JSDF anyway?"
"I figured if an otaku like Sagara could steal your heart, a real Soldier could steal your heart from that otaku freak."
'Sousuke's more Soldier and man than you'll ever be.' She then verbally retorts, "At least he's not so full of himself, unlike you. Now, I suggest you leave before you get shot."
"He's not in there, Miss Chidori. How can he shoot me? Besides, you don't know anything about guns. Now, why don't you open the door and I'll get you out of here to see some good people with degrees."
"I don't think so." With that, she aims high and shoots off a round. "Next round will not be a warning shot. Is that understood?" The only thing she hears in reply is Shirai's footsteps as he runs away at a ridiculously high rate of speed. "All I gotta do now is wait for Sousuke to return."
Fifteen minutes later, Kaname hears another knocking at the door. Thinking it might be Shirai again, she picks up the Desert Eagle, thinking, 'He's certainly persistent.' She then asks, "Who is it?"
"B-3128."
"Hold on, Sousuke." When she opens the door, she sees her television and a Bueno Nacho bag, but no Sousuke. "Sousuke?"
"Right here, Kaname. Could you get the bag off of the television, please?"
"Oh." Grinning, Kaname takes the Bueno Nacho bag off of the television and sees her beau's face. "How'd it go, Sousuke?"
"Extraction happened without major incident. I had to explain to your landlady that I was merely there at your request to remove the television from your apartment and transfer it over to here. She'll be over here in five minutes to verify, as I don't have a regular phone."
"Oh well. It's not a problem, Sousuke." As she eats the Naco, she guides Sousuke over to where the television would be less subject to glaring light from the windows. When it's all done, they both smile in approval at how much Kaname had picked up from Sousuke.
"Kaname, you did a spectacular job in spotting me."
"Thank you, Sousuke. You did a wonderful job in teaching me some of your skills during our vacation."
Sousuke catches the tone in her voice and asks, "What happened, Kaname?"
"Shirai came by here while you were out. He wanted me to be with him. But I convinced him otherwise with the Desert Eagle. He should be halfway to Okinawa by now." Both teens exchange a laugh before yawning and turning in for the night.
Sousuke makes to get underneath his bed, but Kaname convinces him otherwise. Kaname opens her arms and welcomes Sousuke into them, giving him a passionate and tender kiss. Sousuke returns the kiss.
Later that night, Miss Kagurazaka opens her eyes and sees it's night outside. Not seeing Sousuke or Kaname anywhere, she decides to look for them. When she gets to the door for Sousuke's room, she softly opens it and sees them sleeping and holding each other. Wearing content smiles on their faces. Smiling softly, she closes the bedroom door back and makes her way out of Sousuke's apartment. Very quietly.
Suddenly, she hears Sousuke's voice. "It's a little too dangerous at night, Miss Kagurazaka. Why don't you stay the night and make your way home in the morning then?"
Thinking she's hearing things, she turns around and sees Sousuke awake. Accepting his advice, she smiles and heads back for the couch, asking, "Any idea as to what your classes should be, Mr. Sagara?"
"Well, seeing that 'Guerrilla Tactics' is not on the curriculum at the high school, neither are 'Ambush Tactics' or 'Negotiating With Terrorists', we've been thinking about 'Child Care'.
"Well, I understand the first two, but why the third? I thought you shoot terrorists."
"I do. Right in the head. We call it 'Negotiation'." That has Miss Kagurazaka laughing, with Sousuke right behind her.
"Yeah, I can imagine it. A teacher would ask, 'What's the best method of negotiating with a terrorist?' Your reply would naturally be, 'Shooting the terrorist right between the eyes'. Of course, who's to say you can't be the teacher, Mr. Sagara? After all, you know more about that than we do."
"I'll think about it, Miss Kagurazaka. Good night."
"Good night, Sousuke." As he returns to the bedroom, she softly says, "I hope he'll be ready for his newest classmate, or at least the new kid will be ready for him and Sagara's twisted perspective of the world." With those thoughts in mind, Miss Kagurazaka turns in, her mind still buzzing over all that she had learned.
The next day, Sousuke and Kaname wake up, smile at each other and go about their day. First on their agenda is go to Jindai High School to sign up for their classes. After giving the Principal an explanation for their desire to share classes, they get approval and a hearty congratulations on their news.
As the two teens leave her office, the matronly woman closes the door, sighs and says, "The wedding and birth will either be wonderful or very scary. Those two are certainly made for each other. I just can't believe the progress young Sagara had made in his past two years here. If his parents were alive, I'm sure they'd be very proud of his progress."
Their next stop is the Agency handling Kaname's television service. After convincing the workers behind the desk, in a non-threatening manner on Sousuke's part, they're able to get the billing addresses changed.
When they get home, they get ready for their double date with Shinji and Kyoko. Sousuke is cleaning his SPP when there's a knock at the door. He looks through the peephole and grins, seeing it's Shinji and Kyoko. He then decides to have a little fun.
"Who goes there?"
Shinji's voice replies, "Shinji Kazama and Kyoko Tokiwa."
"State your business."
Kyoko smiles softly and replies, "We're here for a double date with Sousuke Sagara and Kaname Chidori. Are they about?"
"Affirmative. Wait one." They then hear the locks unlocking and smile when they see Sousuke. "Hello, Shinji and Kyoko."
"Hello, Sousuke. Is Kaname ready?"
"I'm ready, Kyoko. So, Lieutenant Lunacy, what's our first stop?"
"I'm thinking 'Fumo-Fumo Land'. After that, we can swing by Narashino and see how the troops are faring in their teamwork."
"I don't believe it, Sousuke. You just planned a date to satisfy both our worlds. My world first, then yours. You're so sweet."
Shinji then asks, "What do you mean by worlds, Kaname? Is Sousuke from another planet or are you speaking in terms of the otaku world?"
"Otaku world, Shinji. After all, the ring he had ordered for me is a custom job. What could be more custom or sweeter than a ring that blends our two worlds together?" At that, Shinji and Kyoko nod their understanding as the group leaves Sousuke and Kaname's apartment.
Along the way to their first destination, Kaname and Kyoko talk about their classes to see what classes they would be having together while Sousuke and Shinji discuss Arm Slaves.
"Sousuke, have you heard anything new on the M9 Gernsback yet? I've been monitoring 'AS Fan' and so far, no mention of a scheduled date of release to the Armed Forces. Other than that rescue squad that used M9s, no one else seems to have it."
"Negative. Chances are, the manufacturers are keeping close tabs on their projected release date. Very close tabs. It's not a problem."
"I guess, so. What's your opinion on the RK-92 Savage?"
"It would have to be formidable, though slightly absurd in design. Whoever decided to make it look like a frog on steroids needs to have their head examined or blown off."
"That's pretty dark, Sousuke. Maybe you need to taper off a bit, if only for Kaname's sake and your baby's."
"Hmm, I'll keep that in mind, Shinji. I'll keep that in mind."
"Although, I do agree on the absurdity in design. But, where did you come up with that crack about the Savage looking like a frog on steroids?"
"Oh, just a group of friends we met at an otaku convention in Denver Colorado. Very nice and funny they are."
Behind them, Kaname and Kyoko are whispering and giggling, with Kyoko doing the most giggling. "He actually did that? Inside the store?"
"Oh yeah. I think the guy in the costume really ticked him off enough for him to use a concussion grenade."
"Well, I just hope Bonta-kun doesn't give Sousuke any attitude. He looks like he's ready to spit nails at anyone that crosses his path."
"I don't doubt that, Kyoko. Now, how did Shinji approach you for the date?"
"Well, it was a couple of days after you and Sousuke left. We were walking through the park when Shinji suddenly stopped and blurted it out."
"He blurted it out?"
Kyoko nods and smiles softly as she goes on. "That's right, Kaname. He just stopped and blurted that he'd like to go out with me. I never thought he'd show such boldness. Just like that day by the pool after Sousuke nearly drowned and he showed his boldness."
'Oh, if only you knew Sousuke's truth, Kyoko. If only you knew.' Kaname then smiles, strokes her belly and replies, "That may be true, Kyoko. But, Sousuke's still an innocent in some ways. However, we seem to have changed that in each other in the past few months."
Kyoko nods and giggles as they get to Fumo-Fumo Land. They buy their tickets and go for the first available ride. The Ferris Wheel. Once they're inside, they take a seat inside the car, unaware that someone had been following them the whole way. As the Ferris Wheel starts, Kaname takes Sousuke's hand into hers and softly squeezes it. That's when Kyoko notices something amiss.
"Where's your ring, Sousuke?"
"Is it that important, Kyoko? I had no idea."
"It is, Sousuke. It's to let everyone know you're getting married."
"I see. Since I doubt the jewelry stores would have customization shops and we don't have time to fly back to Middleton, there's only one viable option."
'Oh no. He's going to end it.' Kaname shakes with anger and sadness until she sees Sousuke bring out a grenade. "What are you doing, Sousuke?"
"Making myself a ring, Kaname. However, this will be precarious at best. Weird and dangerous at the worst." He then pulls the pin and asks, "Shinji, would you be so kind as to hold the grenade tightly?"
A very nervous Shinji can only nod weakly as he takes the grenade into his hands and clutches it in a death grip. All three then watch Sousuke as he brings out a multi-tool and start modifying the pull ring on the pin by removing the ring first. He then slides the pin into the safety catch on the grenade so Shinji can relax his white-knuckle grip.
Shinji breathes a sigh of relief as he puts the grenade beside him on the seat. Kaname then smiles as she watches Sousuke straighten out the pull ring, then roll the wire loosely over his left ring finger. They all breathe a sigh of relief as Sousuke clips the excess wire off and nods his approval.
"All right. Now, to redo the pull ring and put it back into the pin. Shinji, if you please."
"Coming right up, Sousuke." As Shinji brings up the grenade, his grip causes the pin to slip out and fall to the ground. "Um, Sousuke, you wouldn't happen to have any extra pins, would you?"
"Negative, Shinji. The only way to save our lives now is to open the door and drop the grenade out toward an area that has no life within it." Sousuke then opens the door, ignoring the shouts of the other people to close the door. "Shinji, when I tell you to, hand me the grenade, very carefully."
"Okay, Sousuke."
Sousuke then says, "Now." When Shinji hands Sousuke the grenade, he throws it into a series of bushes and closes the door. Next thing the people in the amusement park know, an explosion of leaves and a frightened young man jumping out of the exploding bushes happens.
When their car reaches the ground, they make a hasty exit for the pathway, not wanting to cross anyone's path. Of course, since people saw what had happened, they laughed and cheered at the man's reaction as the bushes exploded.
As they clear Fumo-Fumo Land, Kaname looks over at Sousuke and smirks, saying, "You did what you could, Sousuke. Besides, that was pretty cool the way you handled the pin falling out of the grenade. It was a concussion one, I hope."
"Affirmative."
"Then, why did you say to save our lives, Sousuke?" Kyoko nods in agreement with Shinji's question.
"A concussion grenade has enough explosive force to render the Ferris Wheel unsafe while in motion. All it would take was one explosion within a confined space and we'd be dead from the impact with the ground. With other people as well, possibly."
They all nod in agreement with Sousuke's statement, not seeing a shaken and leaf-covered Shirai come around the corner, his eyes burning in hatred toward the 'otaku'. He then shakes it off and follows them to their next destination.
When the group reaches Narashino, Shirai thinks it's the perfect opportunity to wrench Kaname away from Sousuke. However, an ever-vigilant Sousuke spots him at the gate and smiles sinisterly.
"Sousuke?"
"Don't worry, Shinji. It's not a problem that's difficult to resolve. Kaname, go on ahead and wait for me on the benches, if you please."
"You got it, Sousuke. Come on, Kyoko."
"But, Kaname! I'm sensing a photo opportunity here!"
"There'll be others. After all, Sousuke's best blasts are always at school."
"True. But I think this'll be good for the others to see."
Kaname then sighs and says, "Okay, Kyoko. But stay out of sight. When you get the picture, come join me on the bench. Shinji, you coming?"
"No, Kaname. I'd better stay with Kyoko, just in case."
"Well, hello again, Miss Kaname." All three turn around and see Captain Akagi from the Nerima Base. "It's nice to see you again. So, where's your boyfriend, the secret weapon at?"
"Oh, he's not my boyfriend. In fact, he's my Fiance now." She then turns and gives him a side profile. "He's even going to be a Father to our child. So, on that note, back off you freak!"
"Oh, don't be that way, Miss Kaname." Before he can say anything else, an explosion happens at the front gate. Kyoko peeks around the corner and giggles as she takes a picture.
"This would have to be my best picture yet, Kaname." She then turns the tiny camera around so Kaname can see the picture and laugh at it.
The picture is of Sousuke punching a dazed Shirai out like a light after seemingly put a concussion grenade down Shirai's trousers. Captain Akagi boils with fury at how his subordinate had been treated at Sousuke's hands.
"Tell your Fiance I will see him on the field. Thirty minutes. The Type 96, if he dares." To his horror, Kaname smiles sweetly and sadistically at the same time.
"I hope you know what you're getting yourself into, Captain Akagi." At that, the blond womanizer from Nerima weakly nods his head and walks away from a still smiling Kaname.
Sure enough, Kaname tells Sousuke about the challenge Akagi had issued him and he accepts the challenge. Needless to say, the duel was not pretty. At the end of it, Akagi learned a very important lesson. Do not tangle with an expectant woman or her Fiance. Especially when the Fiance is adept at operating Arm Slaves for some unknown reason. Sousuke and Kaname go home, with Shinji and Kyoko right behind them. The two couples say good night and head on into their respective homes. Later that evening, Sousuke and Kaname are watching the News together when a story catches their eyes.
"In Miami Florida today, the War Bird helicopter pulled off a rescue at sea, saving the life of an eight month old baby boy. Details are still sketchy, but reportedly, the baby's parents were arrested on as yet unspecified charges. We'll have more on this story as it develops."
The picture on the screen shows War Bird firing her weapon into the air and yelling at the reporters to back off before someone gets hurt.
Kaname frowns and says, "Looks like Bonnie's angry behind her visor, Sousuke."
"Agreed. I suggest keeping a close eye on this story. It just might be prudent to do so." He then scowls and adds, "I'm going to shower. Just watching that is making me feel dirty and sick at the same time."
Waggling her eyebrows, Kaname asks, "Care for some company, honey?"
"Negative. The shower water will be very hot. Quite unsuitable for your delicate condition, Kaname."
Nodding disappointedly, Kaname says, "Okay, good point, Sousuke. How did you hear about that, though?"
"Ron."
"Ah. Enjoy your shower, Sousuke."
"Roger." At that, Sousuke goes into the shower. Five minutes later, she can hear him singing off-key. This prompts her to start laughing softly. 'He may not sing very well, but he's an excellent soldier.'
Trying to stifle her laughter, Kaname softly strokes her belly and says, "When you start speaking, first thing I'm doing is giving you singing lessons. Your Father can teach you everything else that he knows about."
"Kaname?"
"ACK! Sousuke! Next time I talk to Luke, I'm going to ask him about your birthday. So I can get you a bell for you to wear when you're home." She then wraps Sousuke in a warm embrace and slightly jerks when she feels movement within her womb.
"Kaname!"
Kaname smiles up at Sousuke, takes his hand, puts it onto her four month belly and says, "He moved again, Sousuke. Our baby moved again." A minute later, Sousuke feels it too. "Doesn't it feel wonderful?"
"I can't quite describe it. This is still very new to me too, Kaname. Yet, it's not an unpleasant sensation I'm feeling."
Kaname softly smiles as she kisses Sousuke and says, "We'll get you ready yet, Sousuke."
"Hmm, affirmative."
The rest of the month goes by for Sousuke and Kaname. The next week, they find out the parents of the baby were actors on the soap opera 'Agony County', a show that Kaname couldn't really stand, and had died while imprisoned while waiting for trial. The next week is quiet until Kaname opens their mailbox and sees their first piece of shared mail.
A smile on her face, Kaname goes inside the apartment and says, "We've got mail, Sousuke."
"Who from, Kaname?"
"It's Bonnie. Let's read it together."
"Roger." At that, the couple take a seat and open the envelope together. They read her messages to their friends and about what had happened after Bonnie had gotten her beep. Along with her flight and emergency situation in Hazzard. Kaname winds up laughing over Bonnie's 'Alien Routine' and electing that she should go into acting.
Sousuke is even pleased that even corrupt people can have scruples at times. At that, the letter ends with the news that the baby boy is alive and well, living with a nice, young, unwed couple in Hazzard. With the names of Enos Strate and Daisy Duke.
Kaname shudders as she puts the letter down and asks, "How can people be so heartless, Sousuke? I mean, leaving a baby to die for no good reason?"
"I'm as dismayed as you are, Kaname. Yeah, sure, we're inexperienced, but it wouldn't justify what they did."
"Yeah, it's a good thing we're taking our classes together, Sousuke. That way, we can get equal amounts of 'Life Training' in before we graduate."
"Roger." At that, the young couple turns in for the night, hoping their son will be born into a world that's a little more caring.
Author's Notes: Whoo, this one took a while, writing in conjunction with 'Hazzardous Sitch'. If you want to see Bonnie's letter, check out the last chapter of 'Hazzardous Sitch'. In the meantime, I hope you enjoyed this chapter, seriously. Next month is 'Back to School', month 5. Later.
