U.S. Military Base Camp in California...
"Get these drones moving on the double! You call that fast? My grandmother can fly that thing faster than you! Ground troops, put your backs into it unless you want the DES to kill you!" A middle-aged general loudly yells at the drone operators as well as his own infantry while they are free running through numerous obstacles.
The general then turns to his major. "Major Roy, what is the status of the Earth's field?"
"Reports show that the planet's defense field is operating normally, but there are some disturbances that are occurring."
"What exactly do you mean by that Major?"
"We have just recently picked up a small empty pod that manages to pass through our fields. They use a different energy signature compared the main ships and used stealth tech so they were able to pass through the field without detection. We don't know how many have landed and where the enemy troops are"
"So the enemy manages to find a way through. We can't afford any losses. Secure a night watch and make sure those scumbags don't get in the base. Whatever they want is only found in military bases around the world like ours."
"What is it they are looking for exactly?"
"That's classified. Can you secure a night watch?"
"Yes, General Cole. I will have it done." Major Roy leaves to the base.
"Man I hate the DES." Cole spoke to himself.
A few hours later...
Two soldiers, one of them Japanese-American, are currently at the watchtower near the base of the entrance.
"Captain, we are at the watchtower." One of the soldiers said through the intercom.
"Good, make sure you two watch for any suspicious activity. Our enemy might even be our own who snuck in."
"Copy that. Chris out." Chris hangs up the intercom.
"Hiro, you got that weapon loaded?"
"Yes sir. Chris, tell me who would be stupid enough to sneak into a heavily guarded base with drones currently monitoring the skies."
"The U.S. Space Forces and allies from Europe and Asia have clashed with the DES before and driving them away was not an easy task. They are dangerous so never let your guard down when the DES is involved."
"Right."
With both soldiers armed with M4 carbines, they look around outside of the tower. Suddenly, two projectiles traveling at high velocity broke through the windows, killing the two soldiers. A sniper is seen on a rooftop on the left side of the tower, aiming from a long distance.
"Both guards are dead. Move in." The Sniper ordered.
"Roger that." One DES soldier said.
A couple of DES operatives make their way to the entrance avoiding the spotlight. They then spotted two soldier heading to the area, forcing them to wait for an ambush. The two soldiers were then grabbed and shot at using a sidearm. The DES then make it to the barracks, but knowing that they are filled with soldiers living in the camp, they have to watch out for the ones that are awake and hide in the shadows if they cannot incapacitate them.
"One of the computers operating the planet's shield is located in the basement. Come on." Another DES soldier said.
As soon as they reach their destination, one of the DES troops took out a flash drive and inserts it into the computer.
"FREEZE!" One USSF soldier yelled aiming a FN SCAR at them, but was shot immediately by the DES before he can respond.
"Darn pests!"
"...Sound the alarm." The soldier said before dying.
Another soldier located just outside of the basement, pressed the alarm, alerting the entire building.
"What was that?" One soldier immediately got out of bed while another one barges through the door.
"Intruders in this building! Hurry up!" The other soldier then rushes to the basement.
Meanwhile, the DES become desperate to escape, but not all of the data is copied into the system, forcing them to stay.
"We have to get out of here now!"
"Almost done! Alright, it got through! Let's go!"
Before the DES can escape, they found their exit blocked by armed USSF soldiers, one of whom punches a DES operative on the face.
"What did you do to our shield? WHAT DID YOU DO?" Yelled a USSF soldier, to which none of them respond and are arrested.
In Space Records...
"According to reports, the capsule landed successfully on Akibastar, but there is yet a response from AKB0048." James told NovaStar.
"We are not expecting a response immediately from the group, considering that they travel from planet to planet to entertain. Even with the photos of Earth's repaired ecosystem, it will take a while for the fact to sink in." Alan responded.
"If they are not coming here immediately, than what exactly is the stage going to be used for until they do. it will be wasted money considering that the theatre is now more than double the size." Erik expressed concern.
"The former owner told us that until AKB0048 does arrive, other idol groups will perform there to promote them." Cassie told Erik.
"Then it looks like we have nothing to worry about. Let's just focus on our own career so that we can go to them instead." Ethan said.
Cassie then picks up her clipboard to go over the schedule. "All right, for our EP, we already did a cover of the Japanese version of DBSK's "Love in the Ice" and next is to record our own hit "Seeing Me in You. Want to do that next?"
"The closer we are to our first music video or concert, the better. Let's do this." Daisuke immediately accepts the choice of recording their new song.
The boys then hit the recording studio.
"Recording for "Seeing Me in You" will commence in 5...4...3...2...1...go!"
I remember all the days we spend together
but then fate tear us apart
I would sing under a night sky
I would scream for you all night
I wish I could see you
But I know you can see me in you
Now I see that you are with another
I am a star that dims
He is a star that shines
But I will always love you
That is why you see me in you
No matter how far
No matter how long
We would always see the days we spend
We would always remember the songs we sing
I would always say I love you
That is why you see me in you
I am falling from the sky
No longer the star that shines
How can I let you go?
How can you leave without a song?
I can no longer see you in me
But I know you can see me in you
See me in you
See me in you
See me in you...
The song finished on a positive note with congratulations from James and the CEO for a job well done.
"This song will definitely hit some charts worldwide. Let's have this sent to our promoter so we can discuss having this song be played on the radio." The CEO then takes the demo of the song and leaves.
"It looks like we have an upcoming hit. Good job boys." James told NovaStar.
NovaStar responded with excitement as all members gave each other high fives and returns to their apartment satisfied with their accomplishment.
"It looks like NovaStar will be going up sooner than expected."
"No doubt. For now, let's just relax and turn on the TV."
Alan and Ryan gave each other another high five before the latter grabs the remote to turn on the TV. However, as soon as they turn to the news channel, they see a report of a DES attack that left five USSF soldiers dead and three arrests. The reporter is currently speaking in front of the California State Prison, Sacramento where the DES troops are being held.
"USSF soldiers who caught and arrested the DES claims that they were found in the barracks after the five soldiers were killed. According to Private Mason, one of the soldiers who caught the DES troops, the enemy soldiers refused to talk about what they are planning or how they were able to sneak in past the Earth's defense field. What we know now is that scientists are currently taking measures to block all possible openings and regulate the ships filled with immigrants or refugees to prevent any illegal entry to Earth. As of now, the information of the DES' infiltration is currently unknown, they will be scheduled for trial within a couple of weeks in hopes for answers for our soldiers and our planet. This is Allie Baker of Space News."
Ethan becomes shocked over the news report. "I don't believe this."
"Those murderers destroyed my home and killed my parents! How I wish I can see them right now and beat them for what they did to me!"
NovaStar notices Alan clenching his fist out of anger and attempt to calm him.
"It's okay Alan. These guys are arrested and won't be bothering us. I am sure that your parents wouldn't want you to live your life filled with anger and frustration." Ethan hands a cup of hot tea to Alan.
"Since we are idols, we have to keep our issues and conflicts in moderation or the fans might think we formed for the sole purpose of getting rid of the DES." Ryan also sides with Ethan.
"But that still doesn't explain how they got through the planet's defenses. Isn't it suppose to protect us from a DES attack?" Alan makes a point to his bandmates.
"You are right. The Earth's defense shield was built to prevent another catastrophic event that annihilated our planet's ecosystem. Hopefully, the USSF will take consideration of that and fix the problem." Daisuke also shares Alan's concern.
"We can't get involved with something like this unless we are the target. We will put this issue aside until then."
"Agreed Erik. Since the situation is currently dealt with at the moment, there would be no need for our involvement anyway. We will get our fair share of butt kicking when we perform in Lancastar. Is that okay with you Alan?" Ryan asked.
"Very well. We don't know anything about this so there is no point for me to get angry." Alan reluctantly agrees.
Alan then suddenly hears his phone ringing and picked it up from a table next to him.
"Hello?"
"Hello Alan, it's your mother. I am calling to see how you are doing." Sandra's voice is heard on the other side of the phone line.
"Hey mother, it has been a while since I've last heard your voice. Sorry about that, but me and the boys have been very busy."
"I am sure you are. Do you think you can come for a visit when you have the time?"
"Of course. Right now, NovaStar is currently making new songs to make a full length studio album. We should have some time for ourselves after writing another couple of songs."
"I see. Your father is currently training new recruits for the USSF. It seems like the DES are getting a little more active than before."
"I know. I just saw it on the news."
"I am also concerned about it since you still haven't fully recovered from your past. Can you please promise me that you will not confront them on your own unless it is an absolute emergency?"
"I promise mom. I have the guys to look after me also so I am sure that things will work out for me."
"Okay. See you when you come home. I love you son."
"Yeah. See you then. Love you too mom." Alan hangs up the phone.
"Looks like your mother also knows what you are thinking when the DES is involved."
"It is usually your family that knows you best Ethan. I am pretty sure you know that as well. Anyway, let's call it a night. It would do me no good if we just keep talking about this issue and we have to go to Space Records in the morning to meet with James to discuss promotion for NovaStar. Goodnight."
Just like that, the day ended.
The next day...
NovaStar was called by James and Cassie to meet them in their office. Both of them are showing serious faces as if they are planning to give bad news. The room was silent until James stands up to speak.
"As you boys saw yesterday on the news, the DES are starting to make their move on the planet. The problem is that we don't know what they are planning. Only their motives have been revealed. Should the DES come to us, we will have the USSF defend us since are record label is currently associated with them, but you will also have to use force if necessary. Should you encounter man-operated mechs or ground troops, you will only be permitted to use non-lethal force like AKB0048, understand?"
"Yes. We will make sure to hold back when facing them." Ethan obeys James' order immediately.
"Wait, their target isn't us for the time being. Shouldn't we be worried about what they might actually be planning?"
"That is something that only the USSF can handle Alan. NovaStar was formed to entertain, not fight." Cassie answered.
"Even without the Earth's defense shield, the planet is still not completely defenseless. In fact, the USSF was formed for when the DES does actually pass through our defenses. You can count on them." James added.
"Fine, I will trust them, but I do hope that they do better than the five soldiers that were killed during the attack."
"That only gives us more of a reason to move faster. You boys want to reach your dream? Then we better start promoting fast. In fact, we are currently working on NovaStar's first ever music video for the song "Seeing Me in You" so let's hurry up to the director to discuss what you boys should do in the video."
James indirectly changes the subject and hastily pushes NovaStar out of his office to meet with their director.
In the North Coast of California...
A space ship makes its way to a landing platform in the space station. Apparently, there is a huge crowd of AKB0048 fans waiting for them to come. Ever since the AKB48 Theatre was rebuilt, fans from all over the world would wait in this one space station everyday to see AKB0048 appear on Earth for the first time since the planet's ecosystem is finally repaired. The door begins to open and the first one out is the energetic Yuuko. As soon as she comes out, the whole crowd began screaming with joy.
"IT'S YUUKO! IT'S REALLY HER!" One fan screamed.
"WE LOVE YOU AKB0048! WELCOME BACK!" Another yelled.
Yuuko becomes surprised at the reception the people are giving. "Wow, I didn't realize we were missed so much."
"That's what happens when there are fans who have waited all this time to see AKB0048. This is just as exciting for us since we haven't been to Earth after the war with the DGTO left the planet devastated." Tsubasa told Yuuko from behind.
"Yes! We finally made it!" Takamina immediately rushed out of the ship and fans cheered loudly after taking sight of her.
As the other girls were getting out, the USSF, who initially had no idea what is going on, immediately makes arrangements for them and pushed the fans to form an aisle for AKB0048.
"AKB0048, welcome back to Earth." One of the soldiers then makes a salute and others followed.
After the USSF led them to their a tour bus, Tsubasa turns her attention on the idols. "All right, I guess it is time for me to answer some of your questions. The reason why we stopped in America first is because we based on the photos and letters from the capsules, the people who notified us of the Earth's current state currently reside here. We plan to meet with the representatives of Space Records where they will introduce us to NovaStar, the boys responsible for restoring the original AKB48 Theatre, which was destroyed by the DGTO during the war, and hopefully work on a partnership between us and them."
"How come we didn't know about Earth's reparations until the boys alerted us?" Yukirin asked.
"Global communications from Earth were cut off after it was believed that the planet was no longer habitable. Nobody other than the inhabitants would know about it. That is why i am amazed when I saw the capsule. I honestly didn't think people that remained here after the war would survive."
As the Successor continue to ask questions, NO NAME were more interested in the sights. Once they made it to Los Angeles, the idols soon found themselves amazed over the city, which has taken a futuristic setting to keep up with technology of other planets.
"Sugoi!" Nagisa shouted in amazement.
"For a destroyed planet to rebuild itself to this is truly amazing." Chieri shows admiration in addition to her excitement.
"All right, this should be your stop. You will be picked up within a couple of hours after we drop off your things at the hotel. If your meeting ends early, take a look around town and then meet at the entrance. Have fun." The driver told the girls.
"HAI!" All the girls responded loudly.
The girls then entered the Space Records building.
"WOW! IT'S AKB0048! AKB0048 MUST HAVE SEEN OUR CAPSULE!" One of the male staff goes into shock and later faints from excitement, attracting attention from others.
One of the female staff, though just as excited, remains more composed towards the girls.
"Sorry for the display earlier, but that was quite an unexpected visit."
"Sorry that we couldn't notify the USSF and your label of our arrival, but we haven't had contact from Earth for a long time so this was the only way we could come here. The USSF manages to set up everything in such a short time after realizing who we are." Tsubasa told the staff member.
"That's okay, we are actually very happy to meet all of you girls for the first time. So what can I help you with?"
"We wanted to meet the representatives of Space Records to see the people who helped repaired the original AKB48 Theatre as well as to form a partnership. Can that be arranged?"
"Of course." The staff member then makes a phone call to alert them of AKB0048's arrival with an excited voice, causing the group to feel awkward.
"The owner of Space Records is looking forward to meeting you girls, but NovaStar is currently unavailable as they are currently on set to film a music video. He might be able to contact their manager though."
"In that case, since only the owner and possibly NovaStar's manager might make it, can the girls be allowed to walk around the city until called?"
"That's absolutely fine. He expects the meeting to only involve the three of you anyway."
"Thank you."
Tsubasa then turns her attention to the other girls. "All right, all of you will be allowed to walk around the city for a bit. Wait for my call and then meet at the entrance so the driver can pick us up."
"HAI!" All of the girls again responded loudly due to excitement and rushed outside.
At Hollywood...
"That's a wrap. Great job everyone." The director leaves the staff to pack everything away.
James then turns to NovaStar, all of whom are relieved after working nonstop for hours.
"All of you did good. The video will be released after some editing. Our ride is waiting so we better hurry or you boys won't be able to enjoy the rest of your day."
The boys then followed James and Cassie and make their way back to their apartment to discuss what they want to do.
"I don't feel like doing anything exciting after all of this so I am going to talk a walk around."
"What? I thought we were going to hover board around Koreatown." Erik becomes slightly disappointed.
"Sorry guys, but it is not like all of you are going to do the same stuff after that, right? After all, I am sure the rest of you would want some time off on your own."
"You do have a point. Catch you back in the apartment then." Erik and the boys waved goodbye, grabbed their hoverboards and moves away at high speed.
Deciding to go to Thai Town to pass time, Alan orders a drink from SAPP Coffee Shop. He encounters a girl looking away from his direction wearing sunglasses and a fleece hat, taking photos nonstop of Thai Town.
"Oh! This city has so many neighborhoods! I want to visit them all!" She said in Japanese.
Seeing that the girl has nothing to do with him, Alan turns his back, intending to ignore her. As he takes another sip of his coffee, he suddenly felt a strong push, causing him to lose his balance and had coffee spilled all over his black T-shirt.
"Hey, watch where you are going!" Alan yelled in frustration.
"Gomenasai! I got overexcited and didn't see where I was going!" The girl yelled apologetically.
When Alan opens his eyes, the first thing he sees is Yuuko's face staring right back at him.
"WAH!" Both of them yelled out of shock.
"That face! Are you Yuu...!" Before Alan can continue, Yuuko immediately covers his mouth.
"If people heard that, they will swarm around me."
"My mistake."
"It's okay. Hey wait, you can speak Japanese? You don't look like you are from Japan or even Akibastar or Lancastar."
"I was actually born in Lancastar before I moved to Earth. As you can see, I have been staying here since."
"Ah, so that explains it."
"Wait a minute, what is a member of AKB0048 doing here on Earth?"
"Some capsule from this planet landed on Akibastar containing pictures and letters of Earth's repaired ecosystem, the repaired AKB48 Theatre, as well as fans begging us to perform for one more night. We are here to meet with the label who sent the capsule."
"A capsule? Ah! I see, so the capsule made it to Akibastar after all."
"Yes. Wait, you know about this?"
"I was the one who came up with the idea of alerting AKB0048 using that capsule!"
"I was wondering why you looked so familiar when I saw your face. You are the boy in the center of this photo?"
Yuuko takes out a picture of NovaStar posing with fans behind the AKB48 Theatre.
"Yes. I am actually part of the Space Records idol group, NovaStar."
"It's truly a pleasant to meet you, even though this was not the way I wanted to."
"Same here. If AKB0048 is here to meet us, it seems we already have. Anyway, I am currently trying to enjoy the rest of my day off. If you have any questions about NovaStar or this planet, I will gladly answer them."
"Then let's walk together. I need a tour guide anyway since I don't know the city that well, let alone Earth."
"You better remain in disguise or people might mistakenly think that we are dating."
Yuuko then puts on her sunglasses and her fleece hat back on. "Good point. It will be bad for AKB0048 if such a mistake happens. So where are we going first?"
"Depends on your schedule." Yuuko and Alan then traveled further into Thai Town while continue holding their conversation.
In the U.S. Air Force Base in Florida...
"Sir, you might want to take a look at this." An operative calls for his commander.
"What is it?"
The commander was then shown a chart from a computer. "There is a slow decrease in Earth's defense shield. It was up at 95% an hour ago and is currently at 93%, still decreasing at an uneven rate. We contacted United Nations headquarters, but they are just as confused as we are."
"Have the DES troops spilled the beans yet?"
"No sir. They are shown to be very uncooperative."
"Do whatever it takes to get them to talk. Until then, keep the shields running. We can't afford to have an attack by the DES at this moment."
The operative remains reluctant with that order. "But what would happen once all the power is drained out?"
"I want to avoid having a war with them as much as possible. Strengthen the Earth's magnetic field if that happens and alert the other global powers of this situation as a red alert. We need to keep those shields up."
"Yes sir."
"I trust your good judgment. I know that you will find the source." The commander then left the room.
The operative then turns on the intercom. "Attention all officers, we have a code red situation! I repeat, code red! Earth's shields are falling! I want to have all troops prepared should there be an imminent invasion by the DES and have the FBI, CIA, and all available scientists to work on a countermeasure! We cannot lose our shields!"
The signal was then transmitted to most military bases around the world, alerting them of the Earth's failing defense shields.
Back below the barracks of the U.S. Military base camp, the screen on the hacked computer begins downloading an unknown program, emitting a red light.
Not as suspenseful as I wanted to be, but at least AKB0048 finally comes to Earth for the first time with one member meeting a member of NovaStar. "Seeing Me in You" is an original song I came up with on my own, but seeing these lyrics convinced me that I am not a good songwriter at all, but that is not important. I hope that the next chapter turns out even better than this. Enjoy reading this new chapter, nonetheless.