Previously:
- Hime!
At the entrance Hime was on her knees with their target close behind, holding Hime's own sidearm to the back of her head.
- I'm sorry. - She managed to stammer out.
The masked man pulled the trigger and everything froze around them, the target, the gunship, everything was frozen but them, as if watching a recording and someone pushed the stop button.
Suddenly a loud voice rang out over the PA system. - Enough!
- Simulation #4821 ended, Outcome: Failure. - A mechanic voice droned as the environment around them began to fade to white. The white then slowly began to recede, and transformed to a spacious grey hall.
- I would say critical failure. - A white haired male criticized as he entered the room.
- SIR! - Kurosaki, Ishida and Chad called out as they stood at attention and saluted.
- S-Sir! - Hime muttered as he walked past her while she groggily tried to stand.
- At ease Inoue. You just received enough paralyzing blows to put you down for weeks, be glad you wore your armor. As for you men…- He trailed off as he turned to them.
- I am both disappointed and satisfied. - He stated in a calm fashion as he studied his subordinates. -Kurosaki you need to put more thought behind your actions. The decisions you made were too harsh for the situation and you were dashing in blindly which put you and your team in danger.-
He then faced the young man with glasses. - Ishida I'm glad to see your skills with slicing are improving- Ishida smiled smugly, however that didn't last long. -But…you made a mistake when overloading your weapon. Don't forget that a single shot can save your life out there.- Ishida's smug look turned solemn as he acknowledged the criticism.
Lastly he turned to Chad. - Yasutora, good work but next time don't let your gear get jammed.-
Kurosaki then spoke up. – Sir, may I speak for my team?-
- Granted. - Kurosaki straightened up as he began his assessment.
- Sir, I believe that the plan we devised to carry out this mission as a team was flawless- they're commander only raised one brow as Kurosaki continued. -…we managed to prevent the extraction...
- But you let him take one of you hostage. Kurosaki. - He paused for a beat to let what he was saying sink in. -When you decided to leave Inoue behind while incapacitated in order to fight, you gave the enemy an edge. - The commander was interrupted by Inoue.
- Sir! I take full responsibility. - She stated in a strong voice as she stood up. The commander's face softened slightly at determination.
- No, Inoue, it wasn't your fault. - He then studied her a bit closely and realized that her stance was not as strong as she was trying to let on. - By the way visit the infirmary. I believe you might need treatment. - He said with a look that brooked no argument.
He then looked up and addressed the team as a whole. - Alright everyone we are done for today, I hope all of you learned something from training. Please remember that the field is dangerous and is not a playground. These simulations are nowhere near as dangerous as what you could be facing out there.
He gave them one more solemn look before he let them go. - Dismissed!
- Yes Sir! - They exclaimed in unison.
A female voice sounded over the PA system. - Commander, the guests have arrived and are waiting in the observatory wing.
Commander Jushiro walked out as the main door opened and left to go greet his 'guests'.
As he walked down the corridor, he glanced out the window. He took in the immense city that spread across the horizon. Futuristic skyscrapers stood tall and majestic, giving off a somewhat sparkling quality as the light reflected from the windows. He glanced down a bit and noted that traffic was the same as always, as a monorail passed quickly by the building across the 'street' and a blimp like vehicle flew across advertising various products and services.
Continuing towards the observatory a short brown haired woman ran next to him, she saluted quickly then adjusted her military beret because she almost knocked it off when she saluted.
- Sir! I apologize for interrupting you during the team assessment exercises, but they said that it was urgent. - Her tone was both apologetic and full of respect towards her superior.
- Don't stress over it, Kiyone. - He said kindly. -However I am surprised. I don't recall anyone mentioning or scheduling a meeting with me today. - Jushiro questioned.
Kiyone visibly shook, thinking she had displeased Jushiro and stuttered. - W-Well sir, the message just arrived while you were observing Kurosaki's team performance in the simulation chamber.
- I see. - He contemplated. -What do we know about these people? Who are they?
She straightened up and looked at the thin datapad she carried. - A minute, sir…- she stated as she tried to locate the necessary information for her commander. - I ran a quick search while you were busy with Kurosaki's group. This was the best I could find. - She apologized as she handed the datapad over.
Jushiro took the device and frowned as he keenly observed the information presented before him. He then raised a brow when a key word stood out.
- Researchers, hmm? Who sent them? - He asked while handing back the device as they approached the observatory.
- They have authorization from High Command and it seems they also have the approval of the Board. - This made Jushiro falter but only a keen observer would have noticed.
- The Board!? - Commander Jushiro's eyes widened slightly. - So The U.A* main board gave them approval, but for what? - He speculated.
- That I do not know, sir. - She said as they stopped at the main door to the observatory.
Kiyone opened the door and both of them walked in to see two men talking quietly while standing with their backs to the door. They hadn't really noticed them entering the room and were still looking out of the large window.
- Potential lies within genes. That is what we need to exploit for efficient performance. I say by enhancing with the current bioengineering technology at hand we can improve results. - A light blond haired man said as he put his hands in the pockets of his labcoat.
- Nonsense! - His partner sputtered clearly offended. Jushiro and Kiyone noted that his looks were far from 'normal'. -Genes are useless, too easy to modify and boring. - He said dismissively. -Boosting performance by adding substances is more interesting. I feel it will produce faster and more accurate results. Why waste time, subjecting a subject to suspended animation while waiting to see if it will grow a second heart or liver. By transplanting nanoplates just under the subject's skin, we can produce invincible armor like skin much quicker with better results! - He exclaimed, his eyes shining brightly with an almost sinister glee. Jushiro and Kiyone both had to suppress a shudder at the look they saw. Jushiro decided their eavesdropping lasted long enough and let out a cough to alert the visitors that they were no longer alone.
- Oh! - The blonde turned finally noticing the newcomers. - Commander, long time no see. How is your illness? - He turned and opened his arms widely in welcome with a genuine smile on his face.
- Kisuke? - Jushiro exclaimed, having not recognizing his old friend. - What are you doing here? I thought you moved on from military research.-
- Well, not exactly. I did say I wanted to take a bread for a while but… you know duty called and I had a great idea during my 'time off'…- Kisuke walked closer and took Jushiro's hand and gave it a firm shake. - Good to see you old friend. - He said warmly.
- The feeling is mutual my friend.- He responded in kind, then glanced over Kisuke's shoulder. - And you are…- He trailed off while waiting for the other 'visitor' to answer.
- Where are my manners!? - Kisuke exclaimed as he clapped his hands together and turned to his colleague. He pointed a hand in his direction. - Commander, let me introduce you to Doctor…
- Professor actually. - The man interrupted with obvious spite in his voice. - Prof. Kurotsuchi and that is all you need to know for now. I demand the respect for my title and I don't take slacking off lightly, even for a military officer, you made us wait quite a while. - He rambled, not caring if he offended anyone.
Jushiro frowned at the man's disrespect and tone; he obviously lacked social skills and needed to learn some manners. Seeing the look on his friend's face, Kisuke quickly interrupted.
- Oh don't mind Mayuri, he is always like this- Kisuke said loud enough for all to hear, then bent closer to Jushiro. - Let's just say he's spent a little too much time in his lab with test subjects who weren't quite always…'alive' if you know what I mean, he whispered. Jushiro just raised a brow.
- I can see that. So to whom should I send my appreciation for this unexpected visit? And what is it for? - Jushiro asked the both of them. - Suddenly a very recognizable voice boomed out.
- They are here by my orders and are under my supervision.
Jushiro stiffened at the sound of the voice and schooled his features to show no emotion as he turned and stood at attention.
- High General Yamamoto. - He saluted.
- At ease, Commander. - Yamamoto waved dismissively. -I do hope I haven't missed anything important, yet.- He stated giving a pointed look to Kisuke and Kurotsuchi.
- No sir, just getting past introductions. - Kisuke stated gleefully as if he were speaking to his grandfather instead of a high ranking officer. His smile widened as he continued. - We were just about to get to the fun part.
- Good, good… - He nodded then cleared his throat. He then turned to the lowest ranking officer in the room. - Sergeant Kotetsu thank you for escorting the Commander, but you are dismissed. You will not be needed during this meeting.
-O-Ofcourse, General. I was just on my way out.- She saluted then left quickly.
- She is a fine soldier Jushiro - Yamamoto commented proudly when she left the room. -She has a bright future ahead of her if she would just grow a backbone and stop apologizing for something she hasn't done.- He continued sternly.
Jushiro smiled at Yamamoto's remark.
Kisuke cleared his throat after a moment of silence. - Gentlmen, shall we get back to the subject at hand? - Jushiro straightened to pay attention to his friend. Once all eyes were on him, the General began to speak.
- Right…Commander, as you may or may not know these two scientists came here to discuss the future of a very keen matter. I won't bore you gentlemen with the politics but you may also know that terrorist and seperatist groups are gaining ground fast within this segment.
- Yes, I've heard a few rumors about them, but neither the military nor law-enforement officials have made a move yet since they seemed to be threats. - Most of them turned out to be empty so those cases were dropped. - Jushiro turned to Yamamoto. - But I'm guessing that if you're here, there's more to it? - The General nodded grimly and grunted affirmatively.
- Councilor Benedict handed a complaint in to the Board, stating that one group is starting to -outgrow- the talks and decided to take action this year.- Jushiro couldn't hide the surprise on his face.
- When did that happen? And why haven't I heard about it?
- That wasn't clear. Its still just speculation, with no evidence to support the councilor's complaints. - Yamamoto grumbled not hiding his annoyance.
- Then why has the board approved Kisuke's and Prof. Kurotsuchi's…- he trailed off still not knowing why they are here. -I apologize but I still don't know why you're here. - He said genuinely confused.
- I'll answer that question, my friend.- Kisuke said. - You may not be aware, but we recently received intel from a reliable source that an unkown amount of Hollow was sold on the black market.
- Hollow?!- Jushiro exclaimed. -Impossible! That substance was destroyed and banned ages ago. How can it still exist?
- Yes, legally no one, whether they be a scientist or layperson within U.A. space can manufacture Hollow.- Kurotsuchi answered. -But as long as that person has the technology and the know how, it can be created. - Jushiro still looked skeptical.
- We were just as surprised as you are when we heard. - Kisuke continued. -All copies of the formula and any notes were destroyed when the Hollow project failed, but…:
- But what? - Jushiro questioned. - Kisuke, how could this happen?-
- It is most likely that someone managed to hack or slice into our system to get the formula before the Hollow project was shut down. - Kurotsuchi added stoicly. -Or maybe one of the researchers was sloppy and didn't delete everything they were supposed to. It then could have fallen into the wrong hands and could've pieced the info together.
- The possibility of a mole is possible too. - Kisuke added. - It may not be for malicious intent. It could also just be pure greed. Many companies and corporations with the resources have been keen on getting info on Top Secret Government research. It could be any of these or even all. There are just too many factors to eliminate and narrow to just one culprit.
- General, can we confirm any of this? - Jushiro asked. Yamamoto shook his head gravely.
- Investigations are still being performed but unfortunately many of the former research team are unavailable. - He said mysteriously.
- How come? - Jushiro asked, genuinely confused.
- They were murdered. - Kurotsuchi casually stated not seeming to really care.
- My god.- Jushiro mumbled, unable to hide his shock. -So it is no coincidence then that an unknown amount of Hollow was sold and most of the people who worked with it are dead. - He muttered, but then seemed to come to his senses as his attention was once again on the two scientists. -But that still doesn't explain why you are here and how you are involved. What exactly has the Board given you approval for?- he asked not even trying to hide his suspicion.
- To prevent any possible attacks and to neutralize these so called 'terrorist' cells. Both scientists have been given permission to begin a new project that will counter any possible threat. Henceforth the project, Codename: S.O.U.L will begin! - General Yamamoto announced.
Kurosaki and the rest of his teammates left soon after Jushiro did but went the opposite direction. As they made their way to the Armorer, Kurosaki removed his helmet a bit harshly and looked rather angry.
Ishida noticed his ire and began to speak. - Kur…- Kurosaki held up his hand.
- I don't want to hear it, Uryu.- He stated brusquely. - I already know what you want to say. - He stated as he continued down the hall. Uryu pursed his lips together in annoyance.
- No. You don't.- He paused not wanting his irritation to taint his words. Once he was a bit more composed, he cleared his throat and pushed up his glasses. -What I wanted to say, is that this isn't something you should bash your thick skull over. We might have failed this exercise but that doesn't mean we won't get it right next time.- He scowled obviously failing in hiding his ire and sounding less comforting than intended.
- You heard the Commander! - Kurosaki ground out through gritted teeth. -Virtual reality is no way near the real thing. If that situation would have been real Orihime would be laying on the ground dead!- Uryu's irritation quickly dissolved at his teammate's apparent anquish. He put a hand on Kurosaki's shoulder to halt his pace.
- You did what you thought was right. So it ended up bad, but…- he said with more patience this time. Ichigo shrugged off his hand. Understanding but not wanting to feel comfort for his mistake.
- No Ishida, I made a mistake and one of you could have died!- He stopped and turned to look into Ishida's eyes. -I will not go around risking my comrades' lives just because of a bad decision!-
- Look, I know you want to save everybody, but you know as much as I do that that can't always be done.- He stared back with a blank look as he let Uryu continue. -Out there…lightyears away from us thousands of people die each day…tragic but true and if you think you can march to battle and not make sacrifices then you are an idealist… or an idiot.- Ishida said then walked pass him.
Ichigo watched as his teammate walked into the Armory and scowled at his remark, Ishida Uryu was a cool and level-headed person. His intellect was annoying according to him but he realized he needs his mind to compensate his reckless personality. In the end he is not a bad person, he cares for his comrades and has always had his back. Although at times, he questions Ishida's remarks regarding their jobs and 'duty'.
He entered the Armorer and stopped in the narrow cell like area. It was spacious enough for someone to spread his or her arms out and high enough for even Chad to not bump his head while walking in.
As he stood still the familiar mechanical female voice announced. - Removing armor, please stand by. - Once the announcement was made, directly in front of him a scanner appeared from the ceiling.
The light scanned down then up for two rounds, and then around him a few screens popped up around him. One showed his vitals – heart rate, pulse, and blood pressure. A second revealed an X-ray image of bones and organs, next to it a message appeared stating: 'No internal damage' in flashing green letters. Once vitals were taken, slim robotic arms came out and began to remove the armor.
They started with the gauntlets, then shoulder pads and other armguard pieces. The process then continued by removing the breastplate, it was a little trickier since the titanium and iridium alloy plate was strongly attached together to give protection to the back and the chest. They were practically welded together they had to be 'un-welded' with small laser torches that appeared at the end of each arm. Once that long process was completed, the leg-guards were next to come off. Even though the armor was designed to be 'lightweight', Kurosaki could feel the tension leave his body as each piece came off.
As the process completed, only his black nanofiber jumpsuit remained. This specific material was designed to keep body temperature normal in both extreme heat and sub-zero temperatures. It also had strong density to protect the body from damaging impact while it was still elastic enough not to restrict movement. It was also form fitting so to Kurosaki and the others who wore the fabric, it felt as though it were like a second skin.
- Armor removal comopleted, thank you for your patience, and have a pleasant day. - The mechanical voice said as the way to the lockers opened for him.
As he stepped out he saw Chad had also finished. Ishida must be ahead and Orihime was in the women's locker room.
Orihime was dressing slowly thinking about the argument between Ichigo and Uryu. It wasn't unusual for the two to butt heads, but Uryu's last statement is what stuck.
- If you think you can march to battle and not make sacrifices then you are an idealist… or an idiot. - The words echoed in her ears. She was of the same opinion as Ichigo, to save as many as she could. Before entering the Special Operations team she practiced as a field medic. She acquired a wide variety of medical knowledge both about human and alien anatomy and passed with flying scores. This earned her a place in the team as a medic, a healer, a lifesaver.
She had been told many times over, the medic is a crucial part of the squad almost at the head of the team. Without her and her knowledge the whole team could parish in a critical situation, and she did her best to make sure that no one was lost to her. She firmly believed that everyone could be saved at any given time but after what Uryu said, that during a real life event, survival could not be achieved without leaving someone behind, made her feel a bit desperate in her position.
She wanted to get out her jumpsuit but then she felt her right hand stiffen for a moment. She then realized that she was hit back in the simulator. The bolts were not set to kill, but only to paralyze on a maximum level. She did however get hit several times. Even with the Armor, she could feel the discomfort of that many blows. Once she was finished being 'de-armored' the mechanical voice assessed that she visit the Infirmary for examination, as her Commander advised. She would still be sore, but maybe the Infirmary could give her something to calm her nerves a bit.
She sighed as she undressed after putting on her grey short sleeved shirt that was issued when she got to the unit along with a pair of navy blue trousers, also military issued, she looked sewn on patch that sat on her full chest.
- U.A Military, Spec Ops, Inoue O. – She read aloud.
- "Name is Kurosaki Ichigo leader of this bunch, nice to have you on our side.- Kurosaki gave her a light smile and offered his hand to her." - The memory of their first introduction flashed in her mind making her heart and soul warm up.
- Ichigo… I know that with you on our side, we can all make it. And just in case, I'll be right there next to you making sure everyone makes it through! - She thought with determination as a smile appeared on her face.
The end of chapter 2.
* U.A : Offiacally U.U.A which stands for United Universal Alliance, U.A for short, however this name is commonly used between humans most of the time, the aliens prefer the name, Alliance of United Universes, A.U.U for short. While the last name is more commonly used in politics and economy, and the first term is mostly used by the military and the civilian population.
I hope you enjoyed it, actually this time I got help from LoVe23 who offered help to fix spelling and grammar issues, she actually helped to write the dialogs and settings of the story to make it more clear.
Please review since every bit can help and don't forget to check out LoVe23 account too.
Tune in next time. :)