Chapter 21: Against All Odds
(Takeru's POV) (December 9, 2001 Sunday) (Takeru's Room) (04:00 PM)
1st Lieutenant Shirogane Takeru. Ugh… no matter how many times I say it, it still sounds weird. Just seeing it here on paper feels weird already. I never expected Yuuko sensei to do this. This plot practically screams her. I don't know what she intends to do with my new found rank… but I only bet she intends to abuse it somehow. She keeps telling me to keep a low profile but now that I was given this new patch… people will start noticing. Even during lunch today the girls had a strange vibe. It was like I was on a totally different level than them.
But then again… this also somehow gives me power over the base. I guess I won't whine about this rank until something strange pops up.
This morning also got teary for me. Right after our graduation we all came to Marimo again to give our thanks. It was rather nostalgic to be reliving that whole moment all over again. The whole squad cried and even Meiya shed a tear or two. I can't get that sappy feeling off my chest.
We then had a mission briefing on receiving new ordinance from the factories in Okinawa. We were able to swap our uniform and armor to the standard black and blue, but our Type-94 Shiranuis will be here in a few weeks time. But right now that doesn't matter.
The important part was to find a way to stop the BETA attack that was coming. I can't have Yuuko knowing that I know her plan otherwise she might dislodge me from it somehow. She's suspicious enough as it is.
But boy… I never expected to ever go up and challenge her before. If anything… I think it would still be impossible for me to challenge her straight up. Back when I first came to this base, I had the element of surprise because I knew her routine well and she knew nearly nothing about me. I should consider myself lucky since I held all the cards that day. If she was expecting me, then perhaps our story would've gone a little different.
I can't tell her of the incident with Marimo otherwise I might be dislodging the time stream too much from its course. I don't plan on sacrificing anyone but if I approach any of the higher ups or the local officers, there's no doubt that Yuuko will catch wind of things. I need someone who can move outside of her ring of influence. Someone who can get me the things I need to show the bigwigs what the new OS can do without inflicting casualties.
Hmm… think Shirogane… THINK! Remember everything from that incident. What happened at the time?
Let's see. From 11:30 – 12:15 hours I had a mock battle with a group of veterans from the frontline units. We ended the fight ten minutes early and were put on standby for another 20 minutes. (Flash) At around 14:00 – 15:25 hours I went off to my second round with Meiya and Chizuru and around 15:50, an accident occurred on Training Area 2. We all dismissed it as an accident until more came about. At around 16:00 hour Code 991 was issued and a full-response retaliation was ordered by High Command.
That must mean the BETA began attacking somewhere around 14:00 – 15:30. Hmm… Yuuko will probably be observing the test to solidify her alibi so this will probably be the only time that she will be blind. A thirty minute interval? No. Judging on how long to get from the hanger to the Command Center, it'll take her about 5 - 8 minutes. So that means I have at least a 5 minute window to do something without her noticing.
But what can I possibly do in such a short amount of time? With my new rank, I can ask the mechanics around the hanger to switch my unit to live ammo but they'll probably question why it was done. Such actions will only lead to suspicion and I don't need that.
Ugh… I don't have much time left either. I have to set everything or else things will go from bad to worse. Yuuko sensei will probably question my motives on this but I won't be able to tell her the truth. I don't know where Marimo will be when the attack starts. As long as she doesn't come out until I'm absolutely sure that there are no more BETAs then it should be cool. No matter what happens, I have to ensure that Marimo and the majority of our forces remain intact and allow them to live pass December 10.
Ugh… I can't think like this. Maybe some fresh air will do me some good.
(Hallway)
Ahhh… nothing like a good old stretch to get the old blood going. Hmm… it's 4 PM that means dinner should be getting ready soon. Maybe if I go there early I'll be able to get the good stuff. Who knows…? Oba san might even have those delicious pastries again. Hmmm… thinking about it makes my mouth watery.
"Ah? 1st Lieutenant Shirogane…" Hmm? Oh Meiya. Why the hell is she saluting at me?
"Oh… uh… are you talking to me?"
"You're supposed to salute and say '2nd Lieutenant Mitsurugi' Takeru…" Oh yeah… military discipline. "Surely you must know that it is proper to address soldiers by rank"
"Yeah that's true… but I don't think it's necessary to do that when no one's watching. Besides, it sounds really tiring and wack. (W… wack?) Oh… that means odd" I keep forgetting that I have my own sense of language in this world. "Anyway, I don't think we need to address each other by rank when we're alone. Save it when we're on a mission or if some important people are looking at us"
"Fufufu… you are right. Tamase said the same thing when I addressed her. Perhaps leniency is the best for us seeing that we are only officers starting today. (Yeah…) But anyway, are you heading towards the PX? Perhaps you would like to go together?"
"Sure!"
(PX)
The PX was just about crowded when we got there. Dinner was one of the busiest times in the cafeteria only coming to second to lunch. I tell ya, it can be pretty fierce when it comes to food especially Ayamine who has a dangerously insatiable appetite.
"Ah! Takeru san, over here" Oh? Tama and the rest of the gang are here already. Meiya and I took out usual seats with them. "You came for an early dinner too?"
"Yeah. I thought could get first pick on the food but it seems like everyone here had the same idea"
"Yeah, Ayamine was already here by the time I got to the line" Mikoto added. Oh? So that must be her second serving for today.
"Munch…" The girls in question was munching loudly and speaking while she chewed on her food. Hmm? Is that a smile she's showing me? "What?"
"I thought I saw you grinning at me for a second" I answered before noticing another smirk. The gang seems to be in a bright cheery mood. I guess having their close family and friends visit during the ceremony had something to do with it.
"By the way Takeru, here" Class rep handed me a paper and envelope. Oh… I remember this. It's the official will of a soldier. "You left the briefing room early so you didn't get it. (Sorry) Listen! You have to start acting more responsible. You're the squad leader now so that means you'll be representing all of us. Don't do anything that will embarrass the squad" Oh yeah… since I became 1st Lieutenant, it becomes natural for the highest ranking officer of the unit to be the leader. It must be a big change for everyone.
"Oh that's right…" Tama nodded in agreement. "We should be calling you 'sir' on the battlefield now, shouldn't we?"
"That quite a change since we're so used on having Chizuru san giving us orders" Mikoto agreed.
Ayamine simply gave a smirk. "It can only be an improvement. (What was that?) Nothing… (That didn't sound like nothing!) You're hearing things. (Why you…!)"
"Alright that's enough. No fighting while I'm around" I stopped them which they immediately followed. "I may be on a higher rank than you guys but that doesn't mean we can't act like we've always have. We can save the formalities once we're on the battlefield"
"Haaaa… you're taking things so easy" Oh come on Class rep. "Sometimes I find it hard to see you as a commander" Ow. You're pretty blunt…
"Yeah. Takeru doesn't have that cool aura like the base CO" Mikoto? You're agreeing with her too? "When you first came to our unit, I found it hard to take you seriously especially right now. (Guuu!) But I guess that's one of your better qualities neh?"
"Don't make an insult sound like a compliment" I said back. Great, now I feel depressed. "Anyway… it's a good thing we're all assigned to the same unit. If things didn't go that way I don't know how I'll react to see new faces around me" The gang seemed to agree with me on that. We all expected to be disbanded and distributed to different units but instead we'll all be assigned to the same company.
The Special Task Force A-01 9th Squadron. AKA: The Valkyries. If memory serves, they're probably still stationed at the Western Border on a guard mission. They'll be rushing here the moment the 991 call is issued.
"But I'm glad we got to be in the same unit" Tama stated taking a gulp of her rice. "I'd feel really lonely if I never get to see you guys again"
"Well we're all here so let's celebrate for being together!" I offered my cup up for a toast.
"Didn't we celebrate our graduation already?" Chizuru implied for our lunch time earlier.
"Yeah! That was for our graduation. This toast is for all of us sticking together until the end of time!"
"Hmm! I'll toast to that!" Alright Mikoto. "Come on everyone. It's nice to celebrate even the smallest thing neh? I'll toast to our good health!" Oh, nice one.
Meiya gave out a small chuckle. "Indeed. We celebrate one event and so it only seems right to celebrate other things. I shall give a toast to our fortunes in battle when the time comes"
"… to a full stomach…" Ayamine added tapping our glasses with her own.
"Ummm… for our happiness!" Ooooh good call Tama.
"This is ridiculous"
"Come on Class rep, you got to have something to toast on"
"I refuse to be a part of it"
"Fine. Then I order you to make something to toast about"
"Eh! Y… you can't do that! (Yes I can) That's abusing your power. (Come on…)"
"Come on Chizuru san. Get in the game while we're still playing. Just think of anything" Mikoto insisted.
Giving out a defeated sigh, Class rep raised her glass to tap ours. "Uh… umm… to… humanity… I guess"
"Oooh that's a good one. (Shut up…)" Hehehe… she's cute when she's annoyed. "Then here's to all of us! Kampai! (Kampai!)" Ahhh… nothing suits better for an empty stomach than a glass of synthetic orange juice.
(10:30 PM)
After our celebration, the gang returned to their rooms while I stayed behind. The PX was now completely deserted and the chairs were all raised to the tables. The place was so quiet that you can shout and your voice will echo out into the hallway. It was the perfect place to think things through.
Right now, Yuuko is planning to use her card on this match to accelerate her plans and mine. If the XM3 gets credit for this then there's no complain. Imperials, Americans and even the U.N. High Council will see its effectiveness and immediately install it to every TSF in the world. The casualties that she inflicts here will probably save a thousand more in the future. I can't argue with the results but then again… I can't accept her way of doing things. If she gave me a chance I could probably woo the judges with my acrobatics alone. But I'm afraid the same thing might happen again. I could go crazy the moment I see a BETA and Marimo… (Flash) Ugh…
"Are you feeling well, Shirogane kun?" Huh?
"Ah… Yoroi…" It's Mikoto's dad. "What are you doing here?"
"I could ask you the same thing" He gave a small laugh. "How fortunate of us to meet at the very same place where we signed our contract. The gods truly have a good sense of humor" Heh… gods huh? Yeah… I think they do. If there is a god out there I'm pretty sure he must be wondering what I'm going to do next. I never was a pious person. "I brought a steak sandwich from America today. Do you care to share?"
"Uh… sure. Thanks…" American food was really different than Japanese food. Though it was just simple, meat, bun and vegetables, it was still delicious. "So… Yoroi san. What are you doing here exactly?"
"To keep my end of the bargain we made here of course. (Huh?) Have you forgotten that you and I made a contract here right before the coup? Perhaps you have amnesia" Oh that's right. I remember making that promise with him the other day. Is that the reason why he came to see Mikoto this morning? "I may be a quick talker but I always keep my promises Shirogane kun. (Ahehe…) Huhuhu… you are a funny man. It's no wonder my daughter head over heels for you. (Huh?) I had a talk with Mikoto earlier today. We had a whole 2 hours to ourselves and I expected her to speak all kinds of things"
"Ahehehe…" That must be the reason why she came so late during our graduation celebration. Heh… that Mikoto. Taking every precious second with her dad. I guess that's understandable.
"But instead, the only thing I hear is your name Shirogane kun. (Huh?) She talks about you constantly like you're the only thing in her mind" (Tug) Ugh… "I'm beginning to wonder how far you two have gone. (Eh?) But regardless… she seems to be well. (Ah…?) You know… I wouldn't mind having you as a son in law" Eh!-? S… son in law? "Ahaha… your expression is priceless. I wish I had thought of that idea a long time ago. Ahahahaha!"
Geez… this guy. "Please don't joke about that"
"I wasn't joking" Huh? Is he serious? "It would benefit me greatly if you were to elope with her. That way it would be a lot easier for me to observe you. (Guuu…) Are you interested? Though I must admit that her breasts are small and she does have a rather small body for her age but I'm pretty sure she can satisfy any man if she puts her mind into it" Hey hey! Is that really something a dad should say about his daughter? Seriously, this guy is a terrible dad. I heard of overprotective fathers but this guy just pretty much blows them apart. "What do you say? I'll even give you my blessing and you won't even have to pay any dowry to me. (NO!) Ahh… Mikoto will be sad to hear that"
This guy might not know it and I hope he doesn't know it but I've already been with Mikoto more than once already. (Flash) Ugh… just picturing it gives me headaches. (Tug!) Oh… darn it. My head is really pounding me. Maybe I can ask the medic in the infirmary some aspirin.
"Something wrong Shirogane kun? You seem oddly quiet"
"Sorry. I've just been doing a lot of thinking lately. I guess my mind is on a little overworked"
"Hooo? Only your head? Nothing else?" What does he mean by that? "Hmm…"
"Uh… why are you looking at me like that?"
He flashed me a grin. "Superb. Truly superb. Not even a scratch. (…!) You look as if you're brand new. (Brand new?) When I last saw you in Shirahama base… you were wrapped in bandages from head to toe. Professor Kouzuki operated on you herself and by then your body was literally crisp to the skin. In other words… you looked half dead" Oh crap! He was there? If he knew of my condition and saw me now… "And yet it has only barely a week and already you've made a full recovery. Even an average person will find it bizarre. (…) Care to explain it, Shirogane kun?"
"Uh…" Crap! This guy has me completely cornered now. How am I supposed to fight against him?
"Huhuhuhuhu…" He's laughing? "I see. So that's why she erased all of your medical records. (Huh?) The lovely professor seems to be going through extreme length to keep you from the public eye. Does she want to keep you all to herself or does she have big plans for you? I can never decide. (…?) Professor Kouzuki. Did you make him or did you find him? I'm extremely curious"
Gulp…
"Aha… haha…" I tried to laugh his joke off but it seems like his stare was weighing down on me. This is bad. (Tug!) Ugh… and my headache isn't making this any easier. "Sorry Yoroi san… but I'm afraid I can't tell you anything about that"
He nodded as if expecting that sort of answer. "I guess that should be expected. Your fear of Professor Kouzuki outweighs your fear on me. But I am satisfied with it. I owe much to the professor as well so I won't go after you just yet. (Phew…) Ah but look at the time. I should be heading back now"
"Eh? Wait… aren't you going to at least say goodbye to Mikoto?"
"I already left her a note" Huh? A note? That's so cruel! But then again, it does sound like something he would do. This guy really is like the wind like Mikoto said. He doesn't stop for anything and no one can predict where he'll go next. "Oh… and Shirogane. (Hmm? Yes?) Thanks…"
"Huh? For what?"
"For this time I had to spend with her. It was… a welcome distraction. (…) Whatever it is you plan to do Shirogane… you must never hesitate. (Huh?) If you do… then there's no telling who will be affected by it"
"Yoroi… san?"
"Heh… but I guess someone of your caliber already knows that. (Huh?) It's getting rather late. You should get some rest too. Good night to you Shirogane kun and if you ever feel like it, you can sleep with Mikoto anytime you like. (EH?) You have my full permission to do whatever you want with her chastity"
"Wa… wh… what!-?" Is this man crazy? Offering his daughter up like that without a care in the world!
"You can also keep the rest of the sandwich. I won't be needing it" And just like that… he was gone. What a weird guy. No… the word weird barely touches his being. He's practically the incarnation of bizarre.
(December 10, 2001 Monday) (Takeru's room) (7:30 AM)
Hmmm… seven thirty. I got up pretty early today.
No…
Maybe it's because I can't sleep in the first place. My brain has been going on overdrive ever since last night thinking of a way to prevent that disaster from happening. Yuuko's plan will be in effect in a few hours time and I've done absolutely nothing to prepare for it. I know that it's coming but still… what can I do?
Ugh… this is so frustrating!
'Whatever it is you plan to do Shirogane… you must never hesitate'
Yoroi san. Did you also know about Yuuko's plan as well? Or are you trying to figure me out? Nonetheless… I need to find a way to prevent casualties. Sacrifice isn't the way mankind will prevail.
Shake shake…
"Oh? Kasumi?" She must've come in when I was deep in thought. "Thanks. I'm awake now. (Good morning…) Yeah good morning. (…) What's wrong? Is there something on my face?"
"… depressing" Huh? "You look… sad…"
"I do? Heh… I guess you're half correct there. I am a bit sad. Here I am with all the knowledge in the future and I only have so much to show for it"
"… do your best"
"Heh… thanks Kasumi. I might do just that. (Ruffle) Hmm? What's this? A ribbon? (Nod)" Kasumi handed me a bright yellow ribbon which looked oddly familiar. (Flash) Ah! I remember now. This is the same colored ribbon that Sumika wore on her hair. "Where did you get this? (…) Did Sumika tell you to give this to me? (Nod) Why would she…?"
"She said it's for good luck" Good luck huh? "She wants you to wear it. (Me?) Yes…" Wait… does that mean Sumika knows too? About Yuuko's plans? How is that possible? (Tug!) Ugh! "Shirogane san?"
"Ah… no it's nothing to be worried about. I'm just having a little headache, that's all. Anyway… thanks for this Kasumi. It'll definitely help me on the long run. (Hai…) Oh… and can you do me a little favor? (…?) I know this may sound weird, but I'd like you to stay with Sumika today. I don't want her to worry about me. Tell her that I'll be just fine"
"Ok… (Thanks) See you…"
"Yeah… see you later, Kasumi"
(TSF Hanger) (09:20 AM)
The base was buzzing with activity since this morning. Veteran soldiers from the frontlines were coming in for military inspection, cadets were being rounded up for training and obviously Platoon A207 appears to the center of attention. As expected, we were now going to me the mainstay of the new OS concept, designated: XM3. The delegates from the U.N. council will be focusing their attention on us. Since my name has also been published as the co-creator of the device, they'll be judging my movement harshly with great expectation.
Yuuko probably planned this all in advance to get me to focus the training rather the situation around me. She can't take the chance of me dying for no good reason.
"1st Lt. Shirogane…" Hmm? Tsukuyomi?
"1st Lt. Tsukuyomi" I saluted back at the officer. "It's been awhile" I haven't seen her since the coup incident. "Umm… thank you for everything that you've done during the coup d'état I really appreciate it"
"I should be the one thanking you that. Though others would say it differently, I know firsthand that we would not be here if it were not for you"
"Oh come on. That's not true. I'm sure you would've done fine without me"
"Hmm…" Hooo? She laughed? "Meiya san is right. You are too modest. But even so it is the truth. While we were retreating to the museum, you held your ground against a whole company of Shiranuis, forcing them to split up and seek other paths while you dealt with the rest. If they had chased us we would've been surrounded and destroyed for sure. And for that alone… you have my thanks"
"Ummm… you're… welcome"
That's strange. For a moment there I actually saw a bit of the old Tsukuyomi appearing in front of me. Was that just my imagination "I also see that you have recovered from your injuries. You seem… more or less... unharmed"
I smiled it off. I don't want her knowing my regenerative abilities. "Ahehe… yeah. Apparently it was thanks to my Fubuki that I came out with only a few scratches"
"I see. Meiya sama worried endlessly about you during her stay in Shirahama. I am grateful that you put that to rest" Ahehehe… I guess I really did worry everyone. I should be nicer to them even if I was the squad leader. "But do not take this as a mean to be friendly with you" Huh? "My suspicions of you have not yet been lifted. A part of me still believe that you are hiding something and I have many evidence to support that"
"Eh? You do?"
She gave me a confident nod. "Back in Susono right after the duel, it seemed clear enough already that you knew something had happened. Even when everyone else was puzzled by the fact the rebels were fighting one another you alone were calm" She must be talking about the time the Supporters of the ALTERNATIVE V decided to play their hands on the mission. Seeing that the coup was about to end without any of their objectives met, they decided to intervene with the rebellion directly using their available resources in the fight. "Though it vexes me… the Household Guard does not appear to know anything regarding the situation"
"…" I see. So even the government has to hide some things from the Honor Guards. They want to maintain the relationship of a joint force against the BETA. I maintained my stance and kept my eyes on Tsukuyomi. She doesn't trust me. At least not by far a long shot but she knows what I'm capable of. "Sorry Lieutenant. But I don't think I'm authorized to tell you what I know"
"I expected as much" Phew… at least she still understands military regulations. "Seeing that your direct superior is the Vice Commander, it seems that all information that you know has to be classified. I shall leave it be. (Thanks…)…"
…
…
…
"Uh… is there something else, Lieutenant?" We've been staring at each other for about a minute now and I can tell from her body language that there was something that she wanted to say but couldn't because to the people around us. "Perhaps you'd like to go somewhere quiet?"
"Yes… I would prefer that. This is difficult for me to discuss" Since I don't know what she wants to say, I'd be happy to go somewhere else too. I don't want any more rumors about me spreading around the base.
"Then I know a good place. Please follow me"
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
We went to the back of the school building where the famous tree was planted. There shouldn't be any reason for anyone to be here around this time. The trial was about to start so everyone is probably still busy setting up or adjusting their TSFs for the mock battle.
"Yes… this place will suffice" Tsukuyomi said to me as she inspected the area around us. Even though there weren't any immediate threat, she doesn't take a moment to drop her guard.
"So, Tsukuyomi san, what did you want to talk about?"
She turned back to me after scanning the area one more time. "I am here on a mission, as I said earlier"
"Huh? You mean protecting Meiya?" I inquired. "Is that even allowed? Now that Meiya has been made an official Eishi, won't that look suspicious? (Hmm?) I understand that you're allowed to guard her when she was still a cadet but if people start seeing a member of the royal guard protecting a U.N. Eishi, won't that cause problems?"
"Ah… I believe there's a misunderstanding about my appearance here" She nodded back professionally. "Then I guess there is no worry in telling you. (…?) As of last week, my assignment in protecting Meiya sama ended with Her Highness's command" Yuuhi ordered it herself? I thought the Household Commanders would've done that. "I am actually here on another assignment. (I see…) Though officially Meiya sama is still a member of the royal family, her enlistment into the U.N. Armed Force disintegrated her value to the noble house" So that's it. Even though Meiya was still a relative to the Shogun on paper and in real life, the Imperial Family still denies her existence. If she had shown herself publically like she did in the last loop, all ties to her would've been cut. But at the moment she still has her uses, that's why she's still considered a relative of the Shogun.
"But if you're no longer needed to protect Meiya, then… why are you here?"
"I am getting to that" She answered irritatingly. "Which is also the very reason why I asked to speak with you in private. (…?) I am here under the orders from Her Highness to deliver a message to you, Shirogane Takeru. (Huh?) I carry a message that is for your eyes alone"
"Wait… Yuu—I mean… the Shogun sent a message… for me? (Yes…)" Tsukuyomi then handed me a small old white envelope with no return address or any signature. Totally untraceable. "She asked you to deliver this? Why?"
"I know not"
I quickly opened the envelope and read the letter in my mind. I can immediately tell that this excellent handwriting belonged to Yuuhi. It felt very feminine and high class, just like the girl who wrote it.
"Shirogane Takeru. I pray by the time this message reaches you; you shall be standing on your own two feet once again. It saddens me that we were unable to speak before we parted ways but it appears that our duties call for our immediate attention. I shall have to compensate for now with this letter.
Though we only knew each other for a few hours I feel as if I had known all my life. Your heart had truly reached me just as it reached the heart of Captain Sagiri and I can see now that your words hold much meaning. Though they are rather immature, I find them… welcoming. I was glad for the opportunity to meet you and the old lady we met in Susono for she alone had made me see what the common people have been afflicted by.
Speaking of which… I would like you to know that Rin and Eiko send their feelings on this letter as well. I have taken them to a home shelter in capital with an admirable reputation and they seem to have adapted greatly to the children their age. I wish that they will remain happy and will someday replace the memory of the lost of their family with joyful ones they will be receiving in life"
I see… so she kept her promise to the old lady as well. That's great. I haven't thought of those two since I woke up.
"What you've done for this country is more than I could've asked of anyone. Though many soldiers and families perished from simple selfishness of man, you have saved countless more from that horrible fate. You truly taught me how to believe in hope once again and reminded me of who I truly was. I still remember how you scolded me that night when I cried. You are perhaps the second person to have ever yelled at me that way. But perhaps it is also something that I needed. Because if you had not… then I probably wouldn't have had the courage to speak with Meiya.
I would share with you what had happened but I feel that Meiya would be quite embarrassed if she knew I had told you. She's easily embarrassed over the smallest things…"
Heh she's got that right. Meiya does have a shy side to her.
Yuuhi… she really does care for Meiya…
"Shirogane. I do not know if fate has brought us together or perhaps the scheme of another man. But I know that deep in my heart… I am truly grateful… that I had the opportunity to meet you. You are a man who follows neither the will of others nor the will of logic or of that which binds the common soul to morality. You are a person who speaks truthfully from his heart and from that alone… I felt the warm hope that you bring out in others.
Listen to your heart… for it has led you down the right path all this time… and I too shall try to do the same. And perhaps one day my heart shall reach yours as well.
Until we meet again…"
…
…
…
Doki… doki… doki…
My heart's pumping faster than usual. My face feels hot and my muscles are rather numb. Those words… are just too… ugh… how do I say this?
Your highness! That's too direct! Even a kid can figure out what that means! 'One day my heart shall reach yours as well'? That's a pretty common romantic line that the protagonist of a soap opera says to his or her love! I heard it so many times already that it's recorded to be one of the cheesiest lines ever to be said on television! That's not a way to say thank you, that's a love confession!
No wait… it's possible that she may have written it down meaning something else. Yeah that totally has to be it! There's no way she would fall for… (Flash) …someone… (Flash)… like… (Flash!)… me? (Flash!) Could she?
'Follow my heart' huh? Have I been doing that at all? It feels like I've just been following what my mind has been remembering.
"Are you finished?" Tsukuyomi asked. I totally forgot that she was still here.
"Ah yeah… I'm done" She quickly grabbed the letter from my hand and burned it with a lighter she kept in her pocket. No evidence whatsoever. "Aren't you going to read it too?"
"The message was intent for you and you alone. No one else" She answered. I guess she's very committed to her work. "But now that my mission has been accomplished, I will now return to the capital with my subordinates"
"Eh? Aren't you at least going to say hi to Meiya?"
"…no. Our… presence will merely distract her. Besides, I no longer have a reason to remain here" Damn… I'd wish she'd stay a little longer until the BETA attack. At least then we'll be able to fight them off more efficiently. "But it would've been interesting to see you topple down veterans from the frontlines. How unfortunate…" I can't really tell if she's laughing or grouching at me anymore. She has a really odd kind of mood swing. "But in any case until we meet again… 1st Lieutenant Shirogane"
"Ugh… wa… wait Tsukuyomi san. (Hmm?) C… can I ask for your advice in something?"
"I have time. Depending on the question, I may not have sufficient knowledge in answering it"
"If… if you knew that something bad was going to happen to someone. Would you stop it? (Haa?) If this terrible thing was going to happen yet it also needed to happen… would you still try to stop it?" Right now I'm really lost on what to do and some advice from one of the most experienced soldiers on earth would be welcoming.
She made a face. "Didn't you answer that question already? (Huh?) How different is that from the question you posed to me the other day? If you had the power to save everyone, would you use it? (But…) Even though it is needed to happen… must that really be the right way? (…) You kept speaking as if there has always been a different way without sacrifices. Was all that bravado you showed at Susono nothing more but empty promises? If so then you are truly a disappointment Shirogane. (…!)" She's right! I did… make that promise. Even from the start I've always been looking for an alternative solution without bloodshed! Why the hell did I forget that? Of course! I'm no longer restricted to time so I have all the means I have literally infinite ways of ending this. Even Yuuko can't predict what I can truly do until I do it. Yes… yes! That's it. "If that is all Shirogane, then I shall take my leave. Please send my regard to Meiya s—(Ruffle) …!"
"Thank you thank you thank you thank you!" I gave Tsukuyomi a tight hug. "Thank you very much Tsukuyomi san! You cleared my mind of everything! You just reminded me of the most important thing! I don't have any doubts anymore!"
"What? (Thank you!) What's gotten in to you? Release me immediately! If someone were to see us…"
"Ahaha…" I let her go. She tried to struggle but she was surprisingly weak once you get her in a grip. "Sorry… I lost my cool there. It's just that… you're right. You're absolutely right. You're just the thing I needed to keep me going. I really appreciate it. Thank you"
"What in the world did I say to get you this excited? You sound like a boy who just found his calling"
"Maybe. But still… thank you for everything. I really-really mean it!"
"Enough with the appreciation! I have not done anything to receive such gestures. The least you can do is show restraint. You are fortunate that no one was around or I would've…"
"Yes, I'm sorry about that. It's just that… I'm so happy to actually ask for your advice. You probably just saved me a lot of time. Thank you Tsukuyomi san"
"And get rid of that annoying habit of calling people by names. You're an officer now so at least show proper courtesies"
"Yes ma'am I'll try my best! (Horn sound) Ah… that must be the call for our first match. I'll see you again Tsukuyomi san! And thanks for everything!" I ran down the hill towards the hanger. I can't stop smiling. Tsukuyomi really did give me the thing I really needed. Just a little nudge back to where I was needed. But… I had to admit Tsukuyomi did seem like a girl. She looked cute when she blushed like that. She barely even tried to resist me when I hugged her. Is it possible that she dropped her guard for a second there?
Ah but that doesn't matter. I got to see her cute side for once too. (Flash) It kind of reminds me of the time she and Meiya and I were… (Flash) Eh? Wait… that can't be right. (Flash) No… I don't remember doing that. Me, Tsukuyomi and… Meiya? (Flash) Ok stop stop… I can't think of that right now. I have more important things to do! Come on Shirogane. Let's go and change this world one more time! And this time we'll do it right!
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
"Such a vulgar man…" Tsukuyomi said to no one in particular. Unknowingly she formed a slight blush on her cheeks and her arms moved around her as if holding the places the man touched. She didn't know if she should feel chills or warmth in them.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
(TSF Hanger)
Ah! There's my squad. "Hey guys!"
"You're late!" Guu… Class rep's scolding me again. It feels like my usual greeting comes with the 'You're late' quote. It kind of reminds me of the Class rep in my world. We would always get to class right on the very last minute. "Shirogane! You're supposed to be here 10 minutes earlier than everyone else. As the squad leader you're supposed to be the example for everyone in your unit"
"Yeah yeah, I get it. I'll try not to let it happen too often"
"You're not supposed to let it happen at all!"
"Neh neh, it's alright Chizuru san" Mikoto defended me. "He's here already so why don't we just let it slide. He is the squad leader now after all"
"Haaaa… I give up"
Well at least we're having a good time. "So what's our unit detail?" I asked.
Meiya answered back. "It appears we will be split into two teams while facing the others. Sakaki, Tamase and myself will be in team two while Yoroi, Ayamine and you will be in team one" It's pretty much the same figures as the previous loop. According to the time table, we'll be facing off with the first group in a few minutes. They'll be armed to the teeth not only with TSFs but also with experience from multiple missions.
"Our opponents will be veterans" Tama said worryingly. "They'll be good"
"I'm sweating just thinking about it" Mikoto added. "They're nothing like the A.I. in the simulators"
"It'll be tough…" Ayamine solemnly agreed. What the hell? I thought all of you guys were pretty much up beat when Marimo announced the trial. Now you all look a bit unsure of anything.
"Hey… come on guys. Don't tell me you're losing confidence just because we're facing against professionals. Didn't you guys get your first taste in combat in Susono?"
"Yeah but that was different. This is…" Oh come on. Now Class rep seems unsure too? "… this isn't like before"
Arghhh! This is stupid. "Hey! Have you guys forgotten why we were chosen to develop this OS in the first place? (…?) Listen… I know you're all scared and maybe not confident about facing these guys but are you going to let that stop you? (…) Meiya, I want your honest opinion right here and now. Do you think this OS is better than the old one? (Eh?) I'm asking you: Do you think this OS is better than the ones you used to have?"
"Uhh… y… yes. Not only does it allow almost freedom of movement but it also provides excellent maneuverability, enhancing the speed of any TSF"
"Good. What about you Class rep? (Eh?) What did you think about the new OS back in Susono?"
"Ummm… well I guess it has its uses. It prevents the TSF from stalling when it falls to the ground allowing it less time needed to recover. When I fought against one of the enemy commanders in close quarter combat, I was able to avoid his attack despite being knocked down"
"That's one use. And how about you Mikoto? (Heh?) Did you find any uses for the OS we invent or was it a hindrance?"
"Ah! No! Of course not. It was pretty neat once you got used to the oversensitive controls. It moves almost as fast I do when I turn and my boosters doesn't stop when I'm in mid-air"
"Aerodynamics control will come later. And what about you Tama? (Ara?) Did you find anything bad about it?"
"No not a single one. Thanks to it, the freedom movement program allows my targeting reticule to go even faster and thankfully it stops the moment I get a lock on a target"
"Excellent. And you Ayamine?"
"I can punch and kick…"
"Then we are all in agreement!" I yelled out trying to get the gang pumped up. "The XM3 is the revolutionary idea that Yuuko sensei and I developed to give out to TSFs all over the world. If it gets the approval of the veterans around us they'll be able to move just as good as we do. It will no doubt save their lives just as it saved ours during the coup d'état or at the very least let those men and women who are out there fighting—survive just a few hours longer. Don't think guys think that's worth all the risk we're taking today?"
Meiya nodded. "Yes… now that you put it that way I have to agree. If it were not for the new OS… I doubt that none of us would be here today"
"And we can't stay as rookies forever! I know that these professionals have seen more combat than any of us and they probably hold no respect for greenhorns. So if you want to get their recognition, you'll have to go out there and earn it! Because that's the only way we'll show them how good we are! (…) Come on! Let's show these oldies what rookies from Yokohama Base can do! Remember your training! Remember the things that Marimo chan taught you and you'll do just fine!"
"Hooo!"
"Wahh! I'm getting pumped up already!"
"If Takeru san says we can do it then we have to!"
Right! Mikoto and Tama seem to be getting it.
"Takeru is correct" Meiya added agreeing with me. "If we allow ourselves to wallow over such petty things then we would've lost the battle before it began. The only differences between us and our opponents are combat experience. With our new OS they we will have the element of surprise. I can see now that this battle will definitely be in our favor!"
"That's right!" I cheered them on. "Who cares how many sorties they've done? They're human just like us. Show them that we have what it takes to be fighting beside them on the battlefield! (Hooo!)" Alright… they're all pumped up now. This is the attitude that I need. This is the kind of motivation need to achieve victory. Just you wait and see, Yuuko sensei. I'll beat your logic with my own hands.
(Training Area 3)
Right… we're finally at the starting point of the training area. Even though I've seen this place a hundred times already I still can't get used to the fact that my hometown has now become a military training ground. I still recognize some of the buildings around here. The old shopping mall that Sumika liked to go to, the old park near the docks and even the apartment building where Gohda Jouji, Yoroi's old friend used to live. All these places are like landmarks to me.
If the BETA never existed… would it be possible for the gang to have the same life as I did back in my original world? That… may be possible. But right now… I don't think anyone's life would return to normal until our enemies are gone.
"03 to 01. (…) 03 to 01, Takeru san, do you read?"
"Hmm? Oh sorry about that. What is it Mikoto?" I completely forgot. Now that I became squad leader, my code number has changed from 06 to 01 with Chizuru becoming the new 06.
"Three minutes until the trial starts. We're required to do one last systems check"
"Ah… ok. Give me a second" Alright let's see. Paintball gun loaded, trigger ready, transmission from nerve system to exosuit all good, the OS is checking all green. Now let's try the movement response.
Whirrr…
Huh? That can't be right. (Whirr) Odd… it should move exactly like this. (Whirr) (Whirrr) Even my left arm isn't responding well.
"This is 01 to 03. (What is it?) There's something wrong with my transmission. Can you get a reading on my movements? (Sure…) My arms just doesn't feel right"
"Hold on, I'm scanning them right now" Could my new Fubuki be defective? "Scan complete. No error whatsoever. It's moving just as fast as mine. (Really?)" Odd. It feels like it's going slower. Maybe it's just my imagination. "Maybe it's because it's a new Fubuki. You haven't gotten used to its seating, that's why" Hmm… that's possible. This supposedly 'new' Fubuki was actually just from the storehouse. Apparently it was put there when the pilot it was assigned, dropped out. The engineers fixed it up as good as new but apparently it still has some tweaks that need to be fixed. But nonetheless, it should be good enough for today's match.
"Alright we'll leave it at that. Focus on the fight. (Roger that) Remember. The enemy outnumbers us but we'll show them what we rookies can do when we're in a pinch. Remember your training and you'll do just fine"
…
…
…
Beeep!
And that's the signal!
Go!
Our team immediately split up when the start signal rang. I already discussed with the team on how to make our opening move. The moment the signal is given we were to split into three areas covering the battlefield in almost every area. That way the enemy won't have that many places to hide.
Whirrr…
Hmm… this is odd. I know now that this isn't my imagination at all. My arms really are moving slower than usual. Every time I flick the joystick, there would be a few seconds interval in between. The OS should allow complete freedom of movement to an Eishi. Could there be something wrong with the transmission? Whatever… I think I can still beat these guys even with a handicap.
From what Marimo told us, it'll be the three of us against four. Numbers doesn't really count much on the battlefield but it sure helps. Not only will our enemies think that we're outnumbered but outmatched in combat experience. That's where they're wrong. Sure my squad doesn't have enough combat experience but me on the other hand… I can pretty much say I've stared at the barrel of a gun more often than most.
Clash!
Aha! That must be them. They're really underestimating us to have one unit attack this deep in our territory. But they're in for a surprise this time.
"This is 01 to team. I have one of them locked on. He seems to be bait so proceed with caution. 03, cover me! 04… if the enemy is bait then you go after the trapper! (Roger!) I'll go after this one!"
Whoosh!
Hmm… a Gekishin class. They're not as agile as my Fubuki but they can take on a lot of hits. The location of their ambush must be close. Right then… no point in hesitating now!
"Toooohh!"
Ratatatatat…
He really is bait and he's not even hiding it. Judging from the speed of his unit, he's trying to withdraw to the ruins of the old elementary school. But he won't even get there.
"Take this! (Bang!)" Ha! I knew it! The moment he jumped up like that, there was no way he could avoid my shot. The old OS doesn't give you the freedom of maneuverability when you're up in the sky like that. My 120mm which was converted into a giant paintball shot, plastered all over him like glue. "This is 01, bandit splashed. The enemy appears to be centered on the old elementary school. They're going to try and box us together so they can pick us off"
"This is 04, no enemy sighted"
They must be hiding within the crowded areas. That's why our motion sensors aren't picking anything up. Thermal scanners aren't even picking up their energy sources. These guys really are professionals. If anything, I think we were lucky to score one kill so fast. We have about an hour to go so no biggie.
"Alright we'll switch to seek tactics. We can't let this become a stare off. 03, 04—form up north and south of my position but don't give away yourselves or you'll be easy target. (Roger!) Once we regroup, 04 and I will move in pair to lure the enemy fire. 03 will then hit the target that is most vulnerable from behind"
"03, roger!"
"04, roger!"
Hmm… 11:30. A few more hours until the BETA show themselves. I'll have to evacuate this area the moment the clock strikes 2. Right… let's do this!
We got off to a good start but staying still will be useless. Our OS will only show its true power when we're moving. "01 to all units. Commence bait and pincer maneuver! Hit them hard and fast! We're going to show them the true power of our new OS! Tooooooh!"
Ratatatat!
Yes that's it! By charging in pairs, the enemy couldn't resist the bait of having two of us at the same time. There are about two of them firing at us so the third on must be waiting in ambush. But it won't work on us!
"04 to 01. Enemy units pursuing…"
"Roger that! Keep them tailing us. Mikoto will hit their rear as soon as she's in position" In this fight, it will only depend on whose trap will spring first. Come on Mikoto. Out of everyone here, you're the fastest person who adapted to my maneuvers. I don't know if it's because you and I used to hang out to play Valgernon but I know that you won't fail me. "Alright! Ayamine, there's a building behind us. Get ready to jump! We'll split afterwards to avoid getting bogged down! (Understood…) Ready? NOW!"
Whoosh!
Great synch! We caught them off guard and now we have them trap in between us and Mikoto!
"This is 03! I've spotted the enemy trapper! Engaging in his defensive position!"
"Roger that! 04, with me! We'll take them all out at the same time! (Roger!) Here we go! (Clang!) (Crash) (Pow!) (Crunch!)" Alright I have this one! "Come and get me! (Ratatatatat!) Eh?" What the? Something's not right. Why are the bullets going so slow? (Whoosh!) And now he's moving even slower. What the hell?
I know that the old OS doesn't give the TSF freedom of movement but this guy is moving like a mole. (Ratatatat!) The paintballs that he shoots out are even visible to me. It's like… the whole scene was playing in slow motion.
"Damn you!" I heard him curse from his radio. That guy was shouting on an open channel. "Don't mock me!" He kept shooting but those bullets couldn't even hit me. Something was wrong and it definitely wasn't the OS. "How the hell is he moving that fast?"
"I got you now!" The guy was firing rapidly on all sides. But by the time he ran out of ammo, I returned fire and plastered his whole mech in new orange colors. "This is 01. Bandit 2, splashed. Moving in to support 03! (Roger that!)" I don't know whether if this was a good thing or a bad thing but there's definitely something seriously wrong here.
"04 here. Bandit 4 is moving towards the plaza"
"Roger that! They're probably trying to regroup to find strength in numbers. Lure them to that spot and I'll ambush them! (Understood!)" Now that they've lost half of their squad, they're going to try and stall this battle for as long as possible. The plaza seems like an excellent choice seeing that it had a lot of tall buildings around it. At this rate we might even finish earlier than expected.
Come on, come on. My fingers are feeling pretty itchy right now. I haven't felt this anxious since the coup. I can hear gunshots coming from the other side which means they're getting close. I still have plenty of ammo left in my gun so no worries about wasting them.
Ratatatat!
There they are! Right… now!
"Wh… what the!-? An ambush?"
"Ayamine! Now! Pincer! (Hmm!) Gooooooohhh!"
Wham!
The last thing that guy expected was a hit from my gun. That makes it 3. Just one more and we can… eh?
"Takeru, look out!" Crap! That guy is aiming for you! (Ratatatat!)
"Scatter!" I barked out to Ayamine and split up again. But even so the last survivor seems bent on taking me down. "You won't get me!" He was shooting out blindly, not even caring about the wasted bullets. He must be really desperate. Right now he's probably thinking 'If I can take at least one of you with me' to even up the odds stacked against him. But that won't work. I've fought more professional fighters than you. I've seen Tsukuyomi's fighting style first hand and survived countless battles in all my loops. The things you're showing me are nothing more but greenhorn moves! "I'll show you what this OS can really do!"
"N… no way!" I stopped on my tracks and did a complete flip right on top of him and fired my gun, splashing his body all the way to his back before returning to a complete stop a few meters behind him. Out of all that shooting, not a single speck of paint on me.
"This is 01. Bandit 3, splashed. No damage"
"Roger that ^_^. That' was awesome Takeru. You took three of them out in no time flat"
"Yeah…" But it was easy… almost too easy. They were moving so slow that I could tell where they were going before they even made that move. They weren't that slow back in my last loop. Something must be really wrong.
"Training exercise completed" Marimo's face appeared on my screen. "Fictional enemy destroyed. All units may return to base on the allotted route. Return your TSFs to their proper hanger for repair and rearm"
Hmm… maybe a checkup will be a good thing.
(TSF Hanger)
Hmm… nothing wrong with the transmission. Could it be a defect for this unit? I've spent the past five minutes checking the system over and over but so far nothing has popped up. I even asked the engineers to check the frame-rate of the mech to my headset and they said that everything was fine.
Maybe my eyes just haven't gotten used to the camera. It'll probably go away by the time I get to the next battle.
The time was now 12:10. I have two hours before the BETA show up. But I can't take that chance. If there's one thing Yuuko sensei taught me in these loops is that nothing in life is ever assured. I have to make sure that everything is prepared by 1 o'clock or the result will be catastrophic.
"Ah Takeru!" Hmm? Mikoto? "Hurry! Come over here! The results are out!" The results? Oh she must mean the results of the trial. It records the overall scoring of every mock battle. The Highest is A+ and the lowest is E-. At first I thought that this scoring was based on my performance but after thinking it clearly, I'm pretty sure that it was rigged from the start. Yuuko simply wanted me to focus on the test rather than the real life situation. I was too stubborn and naïve to see through her ruse.
"Not bad…" Ayamine complimented me… or at least I think she did. "You got an A on your performance"
"Oh? Not bad…" I replied looking at the scoreboard. So far my whole team is on top. Chizuru is leading the second team against another battalion. With Meiya and Tama with her I'm pretty sure they'll be able to beat the veterans in no time flat.
"I guess we should've expected it since we beat them in only ten minutes" Mikoto added pointing out the obvious. "I was really surprised. They had these insane moves up their sleeves but thanks to our OS we were able to beat them with no problems at all. You're amazing Takeru!"
"Hey don't praise me too much or else I'll get full of myself. (Ahaha) But it looks like we still have some time until the next round so I think I'll go and take a walk. If anyone asks for me, just tell them I went out"
"You're a bad officer…"
"Ahehehe. Well you can change my rank but you can't change my attitude. If I wasn't lazy then I wouldn't be Takeru anymore neh? (Ahaha!) See ya…"
"Hai! Don't go too far neh, Takeru"
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Hmm… everyone else seems to be doing fine. The other squads are having a hard time adapting to the new OS but I can tell that they find it more appealing than the old ones. The TSF will respond much faster to their movements so it's like more difficult for first timers like the new cadets.
Let's see… that's… Platoon 343. They seemed to have done pretty well to get a B-. The opponents they faced were rather tough but they were able to even up the fight to a stalemate.
"Eh? 1st Lieutenant Shirogane?" Hmm?
"Oh… Mari—err I mean Sergeant Jinguuji?" I saluted out of habit.
"What are you doing here? Aren't you supposed to be with your squad?"
"Ah… well our match doesn't start in a few hours so I thought I'd take a break to see how others are doing"
She gave a complying nod. "I see. It's good to take a break now and then, but you have to remember that you're the squad leader now. You represent your unit as a whole so don't do anything to shame them"
"Class rep said the same thing earlier. Hehe…" I laughed. (Flash) "Oh… uh… Sergeant. Where are you going to be during the trials?" I know that she was my observer during the first mock battle but I don't know where she'd be after today. History has already changed greatly in this loop so I can't risk anything.
"Hmm… I'm going to be in charged with Platoon 102 in Area 9. Why?" Area 9? That's pretty far away from where the BETA will attack. So I guess she'll be safe there.
"No reason… I was just curious that's all. It's just that… (…?) I haven't got the chance to have a proper talk with you ever since we returned from Susono. Even though I've only been under your tutelage for a few months, it feels like you've been teaching me forever" In reality… that's actually kind of true.
"Don't be modest. I barely had anything to teach you since you arrived. The only people I taught were the girls in your squad" My squad huh? I guess they are my squad now. I'm still not getting used to that fact. But it won't be for long since my squad will merge with the Special Task Force A-01 under the command of Captain Isumi. "If anything you were more like the teacher on the second half of the course. (Eh?) I don't think any of them will admit it openly, but they've actually been learning TSF combat from you"
"Really? They have?" Well I did give them my control log but that was pretty much it
"In every free time or independent training on the simulator they try to copy your moves or try their best to beat your record. 2nd Lieutenant Ayamine went as far as taking on Training Course B on her own" Training Course B? Isn't that the course that Yuuko sensei challenged me to during our first simulator training exercise? Ayamine went through that alone? "She kept trying and trying but the best she could get was through the third wave"
The third wave!-? That's impressive! I had to go through multiple loops and multiple training over and over again just to finish that course alone and Ayamine got to the third wave in just a few months. If she were in my place right now going through multiple worlds and timeline I think she'd even be a better TSF pilot than me.
"Wow… Ayamine did that?"
Marimo nodded to my question. "Indeed. But what she lacks is focus from time to time. She charges in without warning, trying to take her opponents down with hand to hand combat rather than her gun. She doesn't optimize the equipment of her Fubuki at all. But then I guess she does have her own style in doing things" I see. Ayamine is a CQC specialist. She likes to take things up close and personal rather than taking an opponent from afar. That's how she tried to take me down in our last mock battle together when we were cadets. But every time, I still beat her.
"Well I guess you can't change a person's habit without changing the person" I stated out trying to act mature.
"Hehehe… that's one way of putting it" Marimo gave me a small laugh. (Flash) That smile… that face. I haven't seen them since the last loop when she was taken from me… the second time. (Flash) Ugh… "Hmm? Is something wrong Shirogane?"
"N… no it's nothing. (Tug!) I… I'm just having a little headache that's all" It's not as bad as it used to be since the coup but it's still bugging me. It's like my brain was being jogged down from within. I just hope it won't bother me when the time comes.
I spent the rest of the afternoon tuning my TSF. The transmission was fine but still it still wasn't reacting as fast as I thought it would. Even my joystick felt stiff. I talked with the mechanics to do a checkup again and again but still they said that there was nothing wrong with it.
"Takeru"
"Hmm? Oh hey there Meiya. You're done already?"
"Yes. We were unable to finish off our opponents but we were able to rout them despite their overwhelming numbers and firepower. (That's good) I am grateful for your praise but still it is nowhere near your level" Huh? "I saw the footage of your match. Taking out an enemy force in ten minutes was far beyond anyone's capabilities. That last opponent fired a barrage at you but you barely even flinched. You looked as if you were dodging bullets so naturally"
"Oh come on, I'm not that good"
"Hehe… you are too modest. But what are you doing in your TSF? Our next match doesn't start in an hour"
"Well… as the developer of the OS I thought it would be best to sit by and make sure that everything was working to its best. After all. I don't want this trial to fail"
"I see. You are very much dedicated. Such things are worthy of praise"
"Hehehe… don't praise me too much or I'll get snobby" We both shared a laugh there. "Oh that reminds me. Did you notice something strange with your OS this morning? (Hmm?) I felt my transmission moving slower than usual. It's like they were moving like I want them to"
"Is that so? Hmmm… no I don't recall feeling anything strange in my OS. If anything, it is perhaps my body is simply not yet used to the oversensitive command. We've only had it for a few days after all. (Really?) Yes. And I noticed no oddity in your movements as well when I watched your match. You were moving just like you've always have. Even faster if I'm not mistaken" Faster? Odd… I thought I was actually going slower. "When you fought the last person as he fired his gun… I believe you were actually moving faster than before. It felt as if you could see the paintball as they came"
Saw them as they came? (Flash) She's right. When that guy emptied his clip at me, he moved so slow that I already knew what his next move was going to be. His bullets were also slow like they were floating in thin air. I thought it was just my reaction timer screwing up but then again…
A voice on the speaker echoed in. "Team 4 entering gate 12. Mechanic team 2, please report to the hanger bay. I repeat: Team 4 entering gate 12. Mechanic team 2, please report…"
"That must be the team we'll be fighting next" Meiya stated looking at their Gekishins. "Truly they must be experts if they are able to put in par with all of us" Yeah… I have to agree with her there. Even though the old OS proves that we rookies that fight in par with the vets, those guys also prove that their skill just gives as much experience in handling a TSF. Specs VS skills… I wonder which can prove to be the better weight. "Anyway Takeru. Do not forget to meet up with us later. Sakaki requested that we devise a strategy to fight with the next group since they will now know our full capabilities"
"Sheesh… she's not letting me off easy, is she?"
"Do not tally. She's merely trying to get you to understand the burden of being a squad leader. (Yeah yeah…) Ahuhuhu… your attitude is what sets us apart. I wish I could be like you"
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
About an hour later I had to spend a seminar with Class rep listening to tactical training. She was pretty much repeating what Marimo taught us back in class but adding a few thoughts of her own to the equation. I however was able to get myself out of it. Even though she should be my subordinate now, why do I still get the feeling that Class rep is still the boss of me? If she ordered me to jump I'd probably do it even if I didn't know why. Maybe the countless loops I've been with her both in this world and other had sunk into me.
"You seem pretty down"
Hmm? "Ah! Yuuko sensei, you came to see the matches?"
"I saw your result this morning" She claimed. "I'm impressed. To defeat an entire group within ten minutes flat even in such harsh conditions. You seem to be living up to your reputation as the OS inventor" That's right. I remember that she published my name as the developer of the OS. Another method to distract me from the oncoming BETA attack. Yuuko… you really are a master at this. You must've pooled a lot of resources just to get me to go along with your ruse.
Because no matter what happens now… I know that there's no chance that I'll ever be able to reach your level. But at the very least… I will show you…
"Well I guess it was a bit easier than I expected" I said back trying to act natural. She still knows that I have my memories of the future and things didn't turn out like this the last time. The XM3, the delegates of the U.N, the Valkyries… all were now in their proper positions to operate this plan. I was foolish to think that she was doing this to get me to rise through the ranks. Even this promotion to 1st Lieutenant was a lie. Nothing will change between us as long as I keep following her.
"If this keeps up then everybody will already know your name"
"Heh. This is how people gain influence after all"
She gave me a small evil laugh. "You know the ways of the world after all. And here I thought you were just another pawn in a game"
"We're all someone's pawn" I stated back. "Even though we don't know it, we just have to agree to our role and do our part. But as long as our goals are the same I won't change. I'll be your puppet as long as I can achieve my goals"
"Hoo? You're willing to become someone else's pawn?"
"I'll be your pawn or whatever you want me to be. Why else would I be here?"
Her smile faded. Does she suspect something? "You have a knack… Shirogane. (Hmm?) Just don't let it get to your head" She's walking away from the observation post.
"You're not staying for the second round?"
"I have somewhere to be. After all you did give me the rest of the pages so I have to make good on my time. Besides… why do I need to watch when I already know the results?"
…
…
…
That last sentence really proved it. History was about to repeat itself. "Yuuko sensei… (What?) I know that this world has probably thrown a lot of stuff at you and you probably don't trust me fully… but watch me…" She turned around to face me. She could see in my eyes and my expression that I had that resolve. "You had to give up a lot of things to get to where you are and I respect that. But still… just watch me… (…) I'll prove to you that this world is still worth saving…"
"…"
"Heh… I'm probably just babbling to you. Sorry to waste your time. See you later Yuuko sensei…"
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Yuuko pondered on what the boy stated for awhile before turning her back to him. She headed towards the elevator that would lead her to the lower floors, expecting things to go as planned. She had learned the hard way that nothing in this world will ever be achieved without sacrifice. She had already given a much and she was ready to pay for every last one of it for the greater good of humanity. True… she knew that it was an unpopular idea but one that needed to be done.
But her thoughts stopped when she came face to face with the man she last wanted to see.
"Hello Professor Kouzuki. It's been awhile" Yoroi Sakon greeted in his usual carefree tone.
The mad scientist gave a sigh. "Yoroi… what are you doing down here? I thought you were recalled for another assignment"
The spy returned a small laugh. "I couldn't possibly leave without seeing your beautiful face once more Kouzuki sensei. (…) Ahaha… such a scary face you're making there. You almost looked as if you're annoyed by something. Did you have an argument with Shirogane kun?" If looks could kill, Yoroi would've been dead six times over by now
"If you're done then leave. I don't have any use for you anymore"
"Ahh… now I'm sad. I only live to serve you milady"
"Yoroi…"
The walking comedian took a step back perhaps out of fear or just obeying. "Please do not mistake my visit today. I simply heard from a reliable source that a very interesting show was about to start so I thought about taking a front row seat at the safest place imaginable. Meeting you here was merely coincidental"
"Do you expect me to believe that? Tell me one good reason why I shouldn't have the MPs throw you into the detention center right now?"
"Shirogane… Takeru… (…?) The more I look at him the more I want him. He has such a strange body that even members of the Imperial R&D department would take interest. Don't you agree?"
Yuuko rubbed the side of her nose to calm her nerves down, understanding his statement. "I completely forgot that you were there as well. I knew I was forgetting something"
"How would you feel if secret service force found the boy and took him when you least expect it?"
The Vice Commander's face grew stern. "I hope you're not threatening me… Section Chief…"
But Yoroi did not back away. He just stood there retaining that annoying smirk of his. "I would never dream of it Professor Kouzuki. You're already scary enough. I simply came to deliver you a word of advice. (Not interested…) Ah… of course. You're never one to take advice from anyone. (…) Then perhaps a word of warning. (…!) Do not underestimate pawns who reached the end of their journey. You will never know what they are fully capable of once they've been pushed to the edge of the table. (…) Hehehe… you must be careful or else your most useful pawn will turn up in someone else's pocket, professor…"
The man took a pass at the mad scientist, taking the elevator up. "Where are you going?" She asked.
"The show is about to start. I'd prefer not to be late and to looking through a camera monitor is such a bore. I prefer to see it with my own eyes (…) Huhuhu… It seems you lack faith. Have you ever thought about putting your trust in someone other than yourself? You can't win this war alone… professor. (…) Hehe… that was a foolish question. But in either case… there are times when you simply must throw everything away in a gamble. Life is short so one should not be afraid to have a little fun. Especially when your Golden-Egg, is the prize"
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
(Much later) (Training Area 3) (Takeru's POV)
"Hachoo!"
Ugh… now I've got the colds too? I must be really sick. Maybe I'll ask the medic in the infirmary for a quick checkup. The headache and sneeze can't be a coincidence. But I have to focus right now. Eliminating the enemy in front of us is my top priority. Hmm… 13:10. Not much time left.
"This is 06 to 01! What's the matter?" Hmm? Class rep? Oh right I forgot. She got bumped to 06 ever since I became squad leader. At first they wanted to bump everyone's number up but Chizuru told them that it would only confuse us. "Don't relax just because we took out two of them. There are still two more out there!"
"Roger that!" I barked back. "We'll end this quickly and get home. 02, I'll bait them out and you shoot them! 06 will cover just in case the second one tries to ambush me! (Roger!) Toooooh!" There he is. He's hiding behind that department store covering his only exit. Bad move! "I got'cha!"
Ratatatatat!
"Wh… what the?" He shouted out through the coms. "No way!"
"Meiya! Just do what I did! Hit him where he can't shoot! (Understood!)" Meiya leaped on top of the building doing a complete flip shooting the guy from the top where his camera was hindered due to the buildings around him. "Right! Bandit splashed!"
"This is 06! Bandit spotted at E-14. Engaging him now! We're going in for a three pronged attack. (Copy that!)" Alright! Go Class rep! "Haaaaaa!"
The enemy seems to be evading her attacks. He must be trying to head off to the old train station to make a good last stand or put this whole battle to a standoff. Well he's not going to get the chance.
"Meiya, circle around to the train station! We'll hit'em where he least expects it. (Roger!) Come on!" Alright… time to put my alibi to work. "Here we go! KNIFE ATTACK DE ARU!"
Whoosh!
Oops… I missed.
"Teeeeeh!"
Wham!
Meiya and Class rep double teamed that guy to the ground. Nice teamwork.
"This is Platoon A207. Mission complete. Requesting confirmation" Class rep asked to the outpost.
"This is Command Post. Confirm all targets painted. Time: 15 minutes. Good work out there. Return to Hanger 3 for rearm. (Roger) Ah… A20701 retrieve your thrown weapon before your return to the hanger. We don't want to replace equipments that's been left out here"
I gave out a small laugh. "A20701, roger that. Moving out to retrieve weapon. You guys go on ahead. I'll follow you up"
"Ahhhh… that's your fault Shirogane" Class rep scolded me. "Why in the world did you throw your knife out like that?"
"Ahehehe… I wanted a flashy end but my targeting reticule was a bit off"
"Combat knives are for close combat only. Don't go improvising things on your own. (Yeah yeah…) We'll meet you back at the hanger" Hehehe… yup… there's no change at all. Even if I did make squad leader our squad would remain the same.
"Oh by the way. How's the other team doing?"
"I just contacted them. It seems like they just finished too. They're already waiting for us at the longue" I see… so Yoroi managed to pull themselves together. I'm glad…
But this is no time for jokes. 13:20… I have to make my move now. While Class rep and the others move back to the base I'll stay here for a few more minutes to coordinate with the guards. Throwing my knife that far away was actually intentional, that way I have an excuse to be here. So far so good. But the real deal starts ten minutes from now.
I can feel them coming. I don't know why but I can feel them. They're like ants crawling up on my skin. Like a thousand footsteps marching every step of the way. Even though no one here notices them or even hear them, I can feel them getting closer.
(Tug!) Ugh… I know. Come on Shirogane… come on Fubuki… let's go and change the world once more!