Chapter 29: Sound the Drums of War

(December 23, 2001, Sunday) (Takeru's POV) (PX) (10:14 AM)

It's been exactly 4 days since my duel with 1st Lt. Hayase. No one has really talked about it but some of the team members have been speculating on a rematch sooner or later. I've been on the Lieutenant's good side since and she's officially made me Storm Vanguard 2 with Ayamine and Meiya as Strike Vanguards. Class rep was made a gun sweeper and Tama and Yoroi as Guards on the rearmost of our formation. All of our training paid off and we were made into official members of the Valkyries. It feels like an achievement even though this is technically the second time I became a member.

We still had mock battles from time to time and teamwork refinement to polish our skill. So far everyone's doing well. Heck, even I was impressed when Tama was able to shoot Meiya through three buildings straight and right on the face. That was incredible skill there.

I also discussed the details of the Sadogashima Operation with Yuuko sensei a few nights ago. I told her about the mess during the first landing and the increased numbers of BETA and the forty-thousand more that were buried underneath the Hive. She took it rather well and said that she would do everything she could to change things but… she didn't make any promises. I was no strategists for that kind of operation. Heck, I can consider myself lucky just to remember how it happened.

Captain Isumi told us about the upcoming operation and said that we'll be shipped out tomorrow afternoon in cargo trucks to the docks of the Imperial Army base of Takada and then loaded on carriers where they can be launched from. We can't risk an airborne operation knowing that the BETA Laser Class could attack at any moment.

I was told about this along with the senior staff ahead of the others. The captain will tell the squad right before the training regime today. Not even giving us a Sunday off shows how serious they are in getting this Operation to succeed. Not that I blame them. Practically everyone living in Japan would like nothing more but to see that blighted monument removed from the land.

Specifically speaking, if everything goes smoothly, the next closest hive would be the one in the Korean Peninsula. Not only will this operation prove that ALTERNATIVE IV is a complete success but it'll also show the world that we can fight them. That we really can defeat the BETA, that we really can win this war if we all put ourselves together!

Japan needs this victory… no… I need this victory. This is the very reason why I killed myself and came back here. I want to save as many lives as possible and beat the BETA back to wherever they came from! That's one of the reasons that keep me going. The reason why I'm still here.

From the beginning of the loop, I've changed things I never thought possible before. Hell, I can't even believe some of the stuff I'm still doing. I changed the history of the coup d'état on December 5 saving hundreds, if not thousands of lives. I saved Marimo chan from death on December 10, got elevated to the rank of 1st Lieutenant and earned the trust of Her Highness, the Grand Shogun of Japan. If you put that on my resume, people would be gawking all over from the sidelines.

If I can change this much of history just by acting on my whims here at Yokohama base then I can change more during the Sadogashima attack. I can do it… I will change history again and save this world. And once the BETA has been eliminated from our world… I… I… I'm going back home! To my friends… my family… and then everything… everything will be… back to normal…

Normal… huh?

I'm beginning to wonder how my normal world would be to me once I get there. The last time I went there, I messed things up so much that my whole life came crashing down on me. If I go back… I really have to be careful to what I do. Because if I don't then I might start hurting people again and again without even knowing it.

My… normal world…

How long before I'm allowed to go back to that place? Just how long do I have to stay here before I can see the faces of my friends… the place I call home? How long will I have to fight before it all ends?

My normal… peaceful… world…

"Shirogane?"

"Huh? Oh… Marimo sensei"

"Are you still having your breakfast? The rest of your squad have already left for the briefing room" Huh? Ah! They totally ditched me! I was with everyone earlier and now they're all gone!

"Ahhh! Crap! I'm going to be late for the briefing!" I still got thirty minutes. If I gobble down my food now, I can probably make it with ten minutes to spare. "Yahhh!" Takeru Secret-Eating-Style: SHOVE IT DOWN YOUR THROAT JUJITSU!

"Sh… Shirogane?"

Cough, cough…

"W… ter… (Huh?) Wa—ter!"

"Ahhh! Water! Here!" (Gluck gluck…) Ahh~ I'm alive! Maybe I should improve my technique. It's been awhile since I did that. The last time I did my Takeru Special Move was back in school when Meiya and Sumika made me lunch. Those two are impossible to get along. "Geeze. The least you could do is chew your food, Shirogane. (Ahehe… sorry) There's no need to rush. The briefing doesn't start in a little while. You should relax a bit while you still can"

"Yeah… thanks for the advice Marimo sensei" Marimo also seems to mold into the squad herself. She worked in conjunction with Haruka so they work well in pairs. I heard that Marimo was once an Eishi pilot herself so I wonder why they didn't make her a field member instead. Oh well, one less thing for me to worry about around here. Hmmm? Hey… what the? Her left hand is bandaged. "Marimo sensei… what happened to your hand?"

"Ah this? It's nothing to worry about. I accidentally burned my hand when I was cooking lunch the other day. Kyozuka oba san caught me using her kitchen and I boiled my hand in hot oil"

"Ow… that had to hurt"

"It's not worth mentioning. Just a simple reminder not to be careless on what you're doing. It will heal within a day"

"But still…" I unconsciously reached out for her hand and held it in front of my face. "…you shouldn't underestimate the cause of a single wound either. Mikoto told me that severe burns can be permanent if not properly taken care of. You should at least go to the infirmary and have it checked out"

"I… I got that" She forced her wounded hand away from mine. "Please don't go touching people just like that, Shirogane. You may have been elevated in rank but that still doesn't give you the right to intrude on them"

"Ah… ahehe… yeah I'll try to be more careful. (Geeze)" Hehehe… Marimo chan is starting to act more and more like Marimo chan. No matter what others would say… she meant more to me than they would believe. Seeing her with me in the flesh gives me the hope I need to ensure that I will succeed. She alone is living proof that I can change this world… in big or small ways.

"Haaaaa~~ It must be nice to be young" Gwah! O… oba san? "You two are an unusual pair. Not even embarrassed to go all lovey dovey here in the PX where everyone can see you in plain sight" Huh? What is she talking about?

"Kyozuka san!" Marimo barked back. "Don't go spreading false rumors again!"

"Ahahaha. Why not? You two look cute together. (Geh!) (Kyozuka!) Now now… it reminds me of that incident a few days ago. (…?) Takeru came running through the hallway like a madman, carrying you in his arms like a princess. I even thought you were already going steady with each other. (Huh?) Neh neh… Shirogane. Take care of Marimo chan ok? You don't get to see girls like her around here anymore. (Kyozuka!) Ahh look at the time. I have to go and make lunch now. See ya Takeru"

"Ah… yeah… sure…" I unconsciously waved back at her. Princess? Going steady? What the heck? "What was she talking abo—"

"Nothing you need to know!" Yikes! What made her snappy all of a sudden? "Don't you need to report to the briefing room? (Yeah but…) Then move it! Now! (Y… yes ma'am!) Go! Run!"

(Briefing room)

I arrived at the briefing room five minutes early. The captain and everyone else were already there so there was no need to delay. I took my place next to the other 1st Lieutenants as proper fold and listened in.

"Alright… before I begin briefing you on today's training, I have some important news" Everyone stiffened their shoulders in turn. "At dawn today, the U.N. 11th Army HQ officially announced an operation against the Sadogashima Hive to all Far East and U.N. Armies. (…!) As I've been implying—this is a large scale joint operation between the U.N. Armies in Japan and the Imperial Mainland Defense Army. Its name is the 'Objective 21 Operation'—Because the Imperial Army refers to Sadogashima Hive as Objective 21. The planned date is December 25th. The U.N. and Imperial Armies are already massing their navies on the western Japanese coast"

So everyone is bringing everything they've got in this. We'll be the only unit deployed from Yokohama base but that doesn't mean other U.N. forces will be idle. We have ammunitions and relief supplies being handed down on several other areas as a backup procedure.

"Our unit, A-01, will be the only one from Yokohama Base, and we will carry out a special mission during the operation" It's hard to listen to all of this again since I've heard it already twice in my lifetime. "Our special mission will be supporting and defending a new prototype weapon being deployed as part of the ALTERNATIVE Plan" The others except the 1st Lieutenants flinched. We were already told about this but I knew about it ever longer than any of them. "Our unit will leave Yokohama Base at 04:00 hours. We'll advance overland to the Imperial Army's Takada Base"

It's going to be a long drive to get there and we'll be going with our TSFs all the way.

"The Imperial Navy TSF Warship 'Oosumi' will take us to Sadogashima, and we'll fly over the ocean to make landfall. The plan is for the Vice Commander and CO to brief you on the 'Objective 21 Operation' directly after today's training" The General and Yuuko sensei. They're going to give the detail of our mission directly. Everyone should be considering that a huge honor at some point. "But listen closely. We aren't going to charge in with guns blazing on this mission. It's more accurate to say we'll be walking carefully down a red carpet rolled out for us by the U.N. and the Imperial Army. Therefore the training you have should be more than sufficient. Fight with confidence. This is a battle on the BETA's home turf—do not let your guard down!"

"Ma'am!"

"Are there any questions?"

Kazama raised her hand in response. "Captain. Are we allowed to ask about the new weapon?"

"The weapon will be explained during the briefing"

Class rep came next. "So today's training isn't going to be based on that mission?"

"Of course it will be. Parts of it have already been included in our training for the last several days" Yeah… the hive infiltration simulation, the mock battles… all of it were to prepare us for this moment. The Alpha Team for the mock battles were trained to take out the Laser Class in close range and with great speed while the Bravo Team trained on hitting fast moving targets like the Grapplers and Destroyers.

Kashiwagi then stepped forward. "Umm… just to be sure, does our mission involve infiltrating a hive?" The others immediately stiffened. Going into the Hive means extremely low survival rating. It's like sending a unit to a suicide mission already.

By the captain threw their fears away. "In the worst case scenario we might, but we're not expected to. Don't worry"

"Kashiwagi~" Hayase teased. "If you really wanna go in I don't mind joining you~"

"No thank you, I'll pass" Hehehe… they said the exact same thing in the last loop too. So far things are going smoothly.

(TSF Hanger)

"Alright that's all for the readjustment" I said to the engineer as they began doing the final checkup on our TSFs. Usually the A-01 Special Task Force Unit can simply ride their TSFs to the other side in no time flat, but since we're part of the operation, we have to operate by the Imperial Army's rules. We'll be going as a convoy with supply units and then join up with the Imperial Army units along the way. The engineers will be following the TSFs while the Eishis follow up with armored cars. It shouldn't take more than four or five hours to get there even if the weather worsens.

Today's training was especially harsh too. Captain Isumi had us running rags working everyone right down to the bones. Even 1st Lt. Hayase returned to her brutal side, sending me out into the open and getting shot at. But so far we've been getting more than our share of work. With this upcoming operation, it'll be safe to say that we are now considered veterans by the others.

I've also been visiting Sumika in every spare time I can get. According to Yuuko and Kasumi, she's far more stable than she ever was then back in the tank. That's good because right now, the whole country needs her at her best. She'll be the key to our victory in Sadogashima. I didn't tell Yuuko about what happened during the failure of the XG-70 because it might affect the future too much. Besides… I don't think that will happen again… at least I hope not.

I think I'll visit one more time before we head out. I want to wish her good luck before the battle comes. She'll be all alone in that monstrous machine, carrying that giant Particle Cannon. It's like handing a kid a loaded gun.

"1st Lt. Shirogane"

Hmm? Oh… "2nd Lt. Kazama? What can I do for you?"

"Eh? No… I was wondering if something was wrong. You've been starring at your TSF for five minutes now" Huh? I was? I guess I must've been so lost in thought that I lost track of time. "Not only that but some of the squad members have been noticing you spacing out many times too especially in the PX. You rarely respond to anyone"

"Have I?" I guess I have. Between the constant mock battles and extra training and not to mention my special mission and not to mention the knowledge of the upcoming operation, I really have a lot of things on my plate. The senior members of the squad are pretty much used to the Captain's hellish training regiment—all the other members except myself are already sweating buckets. I really shouldn't neglect my friends too or that'll end up hurting much later.

"Please try to spend some time with your squad too, Shirogane san. You're never alone when you fight"

"Yeah… thanks Kazama san. I'll remember that"

"Touko is fine with me. My family name is quite common so people tend to mistake it for theirs. My given name is enough"

"Ah… alright then, Touko san. I'll remember to hang out with my friends when I can"

"You can try later tonight after the mission briefing before dinner. I doubt any of us will get any sleep tonight since we'll be leaving so early in the morning. But please don't overexert yourself. Though they might not show it at times… your friends really worry about you sometimes. (Yeah… I'll do that) Here, take this. It should help elevate some stress" Geh! It's that nasty drink again that the captain gave me. "What's wrong, 1st Lt. Shirogane?"

"N… nothing… it's just… this is…" I wonder how they drink this. The taste is absolutely horrible. Just one sip can make me pale beyond comparison. It's like medicine, mashed potato and a horrid blend of tea mixed together.

"Oh you don't need to worry. I have plenty of these back in my room" Plenty huh… she must take good care of her health. Either that or she and the rest of the group have a strange sense of taste. "Anyway, I have to get changed now. Don't be late for the mission briefing, Shirogane"

"Ma'am…" and off she went. 2nd Lt. Kazama really is a nice person. Though she hangs out a lot with Munakata she doesn't seem to act like a pervert or a sexist. Hmmm…

My Shiranui…

The offensive and defensive power of this machine is way superior to a Fubuki. It can match my attack patterns well enough but… still… it's not enough. Why do I feel like it's still not enough? My duel with 1st Lt. Hayase proves that I'm as good as her but that was only because of terms in the machine. They say that the pilot is what makes the machine dangerous and I believe that's true but even so… a man can only go so far with the right tools. If there was just something more… powerful… if I had something better like the Takemikazuchi then maybe I can put more effort into it.

The XFJ-01 back in floor B-20. That machine had the potential to be powerful but it was too heavily damaged to be of any use. I went back there a few times to do minor checkups with it but Yuuko said that it won't be operational for another year or so. (Flash) That machine was powerful and fast. Probably even faster than the Shiranui I have now. I wonder… if I had that machine with me, right now. Would I be able to perform better?

Last time during the Sadogashima Operation, we lost both Kashiwagi and Captain Isumi at the same time because there was a malfunction in the XG-70. In the end we had to result in using the G-Bomb made in the XG and ran away with our tails between our legs while two great people died. Captain Isumi… Kashiwagi… would the two of you still make the same decision as before?

Bah! No used thinking about that now! I have to focus on the present. I came back here to change just that. I'm going to change history no matter what. Just watch me everyone! I know you'll hate me for this… but this is something that I have to do. I'll bear the hatred of the world if I have to. Hell… if Yuuko can do it, well then so can I!

(Hallway)

The briefing will start in exactly one hour. I have enough time to take a shower and change into my proper uniform. Meeting with the base CO is a strict sense. Maybe I should put my Valkyrie patch on too just in case.

"You seem busy as usual"

"Eh? Oh… Yuuko sensei? What are you doing here?"

"What do you think? There's a mission briefing coming up, I should be there as well" Oh that's right. She's going to be explaining the details of the XG-70. Duh. "In any case, you came at a good time. I was about to go look for you. (Hmm?) Don't worry. The barracks of the Special Task Force is secure. We can talk here without worrying about anyone hearing us. Your squad mates are probably in the briefing room right about now. (I see…) Anyway I came here to discuss about the things we talked about in my office"

"Huh? Oh you mean the coming operation?"

"Yes. I was able to get some backup procedures to act up. If things should occur like you said then maybe we can prevent more casualties from occurring"

"That's what I hope for, Yuuko sensei"

She gave me a playful wave. "What's the matter? Don't you have faith in me anymore? (Ah? No… it's not that) Hehe… in the end you're still conscious. Oh well… what you think of me doesn't really matter. What matters now: are results. So as long as you keep giving me positive review… then I'll leave you alone"

"Thanks… Yuuko sensei"

"No need to thank me. You've given me what I've wanted so it's only natural I keep my end of the bargain. If the operation goes smoothly… then we'll have more than one reason to celebrate"

"Yeah…" I said back. "Ah… hey Yuuko sensei? (Hmm?) Do you mind if you exempt me from the mission briefing this evening?"

"Oi oi… why are you getting lazy all of a sudden?"

"No it's just that… I want to spend this time I have with Sumika. (…?) I mean she's going to be all alone for a long while… I just want to be with her for as long as possible"

She gave out a small sigh in the end. "Very well then. I'll tell them that you're on your special mission. That should keep them off. You've probably heard the mission briefing more than once already" Technically, yes. "Fine. Go. But don't take too long. The 00-unit will need to be ready by tonight. (Ma'am)"

(Brain room)

"Sumika! Kasumi! Are you in here?" Ah… there they are.

"Ah! Takeru chan! You came to visit. (Of course…) Ahehe… Hey what do you think? Cute huh?" What the? Did she just tie Kasumi's hair over? Now her hair was like a knot.

"What did you do? Make a pretzel out of her hair?"

"Ey! That's not a nice thing to say! (Whack!)" Ow… did she really have to hit me so hard? "Takeru chan needs to be nicer when he looks at a woman. They can be really sensitive you know. (Yeah yeah…) But seriously. I spent half an hour doing her hair in different styles. Kasumi chan has a lot of hair so we can be creative. Right, Kasumi chan? (Yes…) We even made her hair into a full blown hat!" A hat? Seriously? Well I guess I can see it using most of her hair but that's kind of difficult. "Hey lookie lookie. Doesn't she look like a rabbit?"

"She already does look like a rabbit with that thing on" I whined. "Oh and speaking of rabbits. I made something for you Kasumi. (…?) Close your eyes and give me your hand. (…)" Hehehe… she looks cute when she does that. "And tada! You can open up now. (…!) It's Usa san! Well… a miniature version of it at least. I couldn't make the eyes look right and the mouth was difficult to make with the stitch so… sorry about that"

"Heeeeh? Takeru chan made presents for Kasumi chan? (Bonk!) Owie!" I tapped her head lightly.

"Don't be a pain. Here I made you one too. (Eh?) It's not much but you always did want another Santa Rabbit back then" Yeah… Sumika kept pestering me to buy her another Santa rabbit back then. But I completely forgot that I was the one who got her that rabbit in the first place. It took me a hundred years to finally remember that moment.

"Takeru chan…"

"Hey don't complain! I ran out of materials so I had to use pink for the Santa costume. It was hard for me to make it as it is. (…) H… hey! Come on say something! Don't go silent on me, that's even worse!"

"I love… it… (Huh?) Takeru chan… you silly" Oh hey… are those happy tears coming out of your eyes because I can't really tell. "I'll cherish it…" She held up the two Santa Rabbits I made and hugged both of them tightly on her chest. "I'll cherish both of them… forever"

"Oh come on. You don't really need to be that sentimental. I just wanted to make something so…"

"Ahehehe… Takeru chan looks cute when you're blushing" Gah! That girl! She got me again. "Ahehehehe… but really Takeru chan—I love them. Thank you!"

"Ah… y… you're welcome…" Ugh… I can't stop myself from blushing. Sumika looks so… cute I can't even look at her in the eyes.

"Hey Kasumi chan! Now both of us have two rabbits!" Sumika went off and played with Kasumi with their new toys. It's silly how such small things can bring smiles in these dark times. Such silly little things…

I stayed with them a bit longer, playing a few games myself. The mission briefing should be starting now so I guess there was no rush. We'll be riding out soon ourselves.

(A-09 Barracks) (18:00 PM)

After Sumika was finally taken by Lt. Piatif I returned to my barracks for a little R&R. Dinner was already served and I had my share already. I wanted to get at least a few hours of sleep before we get sent out. It'll be a long drive from here to Niigata and if everything goes to plan I'll be the one driving again.

"Huh? Ah! Takeru!" Hmm? Meiya? "There you are. I have been looking all over for you. I was worried since you did not appear for dinner with the rest of us" Ah crap. I totally forgot that I wanted to spend some time with the squad too. I got caught up with Sumika I completely blew my chances with them. "The Vice Commander said that you were out ensuring the completion of your special mission. Were you successful?"

"Yeah. I did the best I could. But there's nothing to worry about. It's not exactly that dangerous but really hard and time consuming"

"I… I see. But still you could've told us. We were all waiting for you at the PX. (Sorry) No… it is fine. It's just that… we never really had the luxury of having your company anymore. We rarely see you around the base and you often disappear after training" Yeah… I've been spending most of my time with Sumika. I really have been neglecting my own team. I'll have to make up for it somehow. "But… even so. I understand your position. With the professor giving you such hard times with your special mission, I shall burden you more"

"Thanks Meiya" I nodded back in apology. "I'll make it up for you girls later. I promise"

"Emm… I shall hold you to that promise. (Hehehe…) I should return to my room now. We will need all of our energy when we travel. I shall see you in the hanger, Takeru"

"Yeah… later Meiya…" Haaaaa… I'm beat. Maybe a few hours of rest will do.

(Click…) I should also pack up some stuff. Hmm? What's this? Oh… it's my will. I forgot about it when Class rep gave it to me the other day. I don't really know what I should down in this since I have no intentions of dying. (Ruffle) I don't think I'll need that. It's not like I have any family waiting for me here. I'll probably need a change of clothes just in case. Oh and my personal supply of Bancha tea. It's not the best but it helps. Maybe I can get more from Oba san later today. (Ruffle) Hmm? Oh… this…

The syringe that Yuuko sensei gave me. I should bring that too as a precaution. So far I've only had minor doses of headaches but I don't want to take unnecessary risks. (Ruffle) Hmm?

Hey… isn't this the strange statue that Yoroi's dad gave me before the coup? What's it doing here? I thought I gave it back to him during the coup. Hmm? There's a number written on the bottom…

'Meal time'

Ah… I see…

(Marimo's POV) (TSF Hanger)

The base was busy as a beehive, especially here in the hanger bay area. Though only the A-01 Special Task Force is being deployed, many of the other TSF squadron here will be standing by just in case something should happen. It was a full mobilization with dozens of Gekishins being sortied into various bases around the Kanto Prefecture.

The Type-94s here were being loaded onto large cargo trucks and then shipped along with their pilots. TSFs were of the highest and most important commodities here on earth since they're the only soldiers capable of fighting the BETA head on. A full armored battalion will be escorting them from here to the Fukushima Prefecture and then from there we'll be charged with the 4th Imperial Army Tank Battalion to Niigata.

If we take the Military Express Way, we should arrive there within four or five hours at least. We'll take a break at the old border check point ruins and from there switch command posts with the Imperial Army. We'll also be traveling with the 19th Imperial Honor Guard Regiment as a backup unit.

"I want all of this ready within the hour!" Hmm? "The convoy leaves at 4 AM straight. Not a minute later. Have Flash Guard equipments ready just in case. I also want extra munitions for the 4-gate guns for my team. Anything we can get here we'll just request from the Imperial Army. (Yes ma'am…)" That's Isumi Michiru, the captain of the unit. She must be making a last round checkup before deployment.

It's funny. Back in my early days as an instructor she used to study under me. I remember particularly that I was the one who beat her to a pulp. I was a ruthless person back then and cared little for what they cared about me. Heh… I was so bad that one of them even nicknamed me Mad Dog. I forget who that was though.

But who would've thought that I would one day be serving under her? The world has a way of surprising people. Though Yuuko probably played a major role in it. Leaving that aside… I should probably get back to work and then get some rest before deployment. I don't want to hold anyone back when the time comes to fight. Oh that reminds me. I need to deliver this folder to the head mechanic.

Tap tap tap…

Hmm? Hey… isn't that, Yuuko?

"You seem to be working hard as usual, Isumi"

"Vice Commander" The captain saluted back which Yuuko simply waved it off.

"Didn't I tell you it's alright not to salute? It's a waste of time and energy. (Ma'am) But anyway, how long until the TSFs are loaded"

"Approximately 30 minutes tops, Vice Commander. We should be ready to go ahead of schedule. (Good good…) Umm… may I also have a word, professor? (Hmm?) I know that you are Shirogane's official guardian and his Commanding Officer but are you sure it's wise to have him skip so many classes? I understand that his skill behind the TSF is incredible and his battle experience appears to be on par with the others but there seems to be a lot of things he missed out" That's true. From what I heard, Shirogane only seems to be attending simulator classes and mock battles. Lectures about hives, combat doctrines and everything else related, he vanishes.

"Ah that… you don't need to worry. (…?) He might not look it but Shirogane's a lot smarter than you'd think. (Huh?) Who knows? The boy might actually know more about the BETA than any of us here. (Eh? What do you mean?) Sorry… but I can't reveal more than that. He's a member of this squad but he receives orders from me. You could say… that he is… different from the rest of you"

"…" Captain Isumi didn't seem to understand much but nodded either way. I didn't understand any of the things she said either. "Very well. I won't inquire anything more. Excuse me. I have more preparations to finish"

"Yes. I'll see you soon then. Ah… wait captain. (Hmm?) There's a favor I want you to do for me…"

(Takeru's POV) (PX) (Midnight)

Alright… here I am at the PX. It was as quiet as a graveyard here at this time of day. The seats were all rolled in and the lights were closed to conserve energy. There should be no reason for anyone to be here at this time of night.

"Aha… I see you got my message, Shirogane kun"

I looked back and saw a familiar coated figure approaching me. "Yoroi san… nice to see you again. I see you haven't changed"

"On the contrary Shirogane kun, I've changed a lot since our last encounter. (Oh?) Yes. You see the coat I'm wearing now is made of different material. Made from the finest leather you can get in the Middle East" I can't really tell. They all look the same no matter how you look at it. "I even have new shoes to boot. Would you like to see? (No thanks) Really? They're genuine Rochel brand that came all the way from England. Extremely rare and expensive nowadays. (I'm sure…) Very well. Then can I interest you in a cup of hot coco?"

"I'd love to" We took our seats and drank. Ahh… now that's well bred chocolate for ya. I haven't had one of these since I left home. Japanese don't normally drink hot chocolate but my mom loves the flavor. "So… Yoroi san. What are you doing here again? Did you come to pester Yuuko sensei again?"

"Ahaha… I'm flattered that you're starting to get to know me. I was going to meet her but she wasn't in her office when I got there" That's no surprise. Yuuko's probably went on ahead to make sure everything's prepared for the XG-70. If she's in the hanger on the lower floors, not even I could get in there without proper access. "But to be honest I'm actually here to congratulate you for finally taking my daughter's virginity"

Pfffft!

"Wh… what!-?"

"Ah… wait that was wrong. Perhaps it's that time of the month again. I have a hard time distinguishing which is which"

"Geeze… please don't do that Yoroi san. It's not funny! (Ahahaha…) Ugh… now I got coffee all over me. (Ahahaha…) So what are you here for Yoroi san?"

"Ahehe… well jokes aside, you could say that I came to wish you good luck on your operation. With the Imperial Army in full mobilization, the Imperially Ministry of Information is being sent to various areas to ensure the stability of the people. We don't want a riot to happen during the operation now do we?" I see… with the country offering almost half of its reserves to this operation, they want to make sure that there won't be an after battle. They want to make sure that the 12/5 incident won't happen again when the country is weakened. "But to be honest I was actually sent here to make sure nothing goes awry"

"So you're collateral in all of this?"

"That's an ugly way to say it but yes. Should a fighting happen between the U.N. and Japan… I will the one to report it. But judging on where we are now, something like that is far from happening"

"So you'll be staying with the convoy?"

"Sadly no. I am to return to the capital tomorrow. But I will still be here to see you off, son-in-law"

"Please stop doing that. It wasn't funny the first time and it's not funny now"

The man gave out a hearty laugh. "Ahaha… yes but I still have hopes for my daughter. She's head over heels for you, you know that?" Mikoto? "She speaks of you like you are her role model. She fights like you and in all things, wants to be like you. (…) I wouldn't mind that really since I did want a son after all. (Hey!) Ahahaha… but in either case… you probably know what I mean"

Just what is his game now? He was making sense at first but now he's babbling over like the world was ending. "So… are you going to see Mikoto at least?"

"No. (Eh?) The last thing she needs is a distraction. I want her to focus on the task at hand. Happiness can come at a later time. (But…) Now now… Shirogane kun. You're being too forceful. You cannot let a person perform a good deed. Just the same as you cannot force a non-believer to pray" What the hell is that suppose to mean? "Do you want another cup of coffee?"

"Ah yes please—Wait! That's not the point!"

"It's the middle of the night, Shirogane kun. Please speak softly less you disturb your neighbors" Haaaa… this guy. No matter how hard I try I really can't match his rhythm. I can get used to his mind shattering talks but after awhile it gets into your skin. For Yuuko sensei to endure this much must be incredible. "Anyway Shirogane… do you wish to play a game? (A game?) Yes. Back when I was in high school I procured a deck of tarot cards from a store a long time ago. He said that I have a knack in it so I thought I'd buy it"

"Tarot cards? You mean those weird cards with pictures and shapes in them?"

"Yes. I happened to meet a fortune teller in my days of youth" Yeah right. Even Yuuko sensei wouldn't fall for that. "Would you care for a round? Free of charge of course"

Ugh… I really don't feel like it but what the hell, I'll bite. "Fine. I'll do it"

"Hai… now pick a card" I picked a card from the rack.

The Star…

"Ah… the star… an excellent card"

"What does it mean?" I asked out of curiosity's sake.

"It means that you will be going on an adventure. (Really?) Who knows? I'm not a fortune teller. (But you just said that…!) I said that I met a fortune teller. I did not say anything about learning from him. (…) Ahaha… it seems that I have irritated you in some way, Shirogane kun"

"Haaaaa… somehow getting irritated isn't going to help me tomorrow either"

"Ahahaha… indeed. Then perhaps we should conclude our meeting for another time. (Hmm?) Though this may sound strange, you have to understand that I found a sudden attraction to you, Shirogane kun. (Eh?) Ahaha… nothing that would beat your mind. You're simply someone who I like to hang out with. The feeling is neutral I assure you"

"Somehow I can't really tell what you're trying to tell me anymore, Yoroi san"

"Please… call me Sakon. We should get to know each other more, Shirogane kun. Ah… and before I forget. Here… steak sandwich from New York. Freshly baked too"

"Ah… thanks… oh and here" I gave the man back his weird statue. "I'm not going to need it where I'm going"

"Hehehe… indeed. Even all the luck in the world will not be enough to save an army. So until then… may fortune favor you in battle"

"Thank you… Section Chief"

"I'll be waiting for good news, son-in-law!"

Pfffft!

(December 24, 2001 Monday) (Outside Yokohama Base) (03:45 AM)

It was snowing… when we finally moved out to our roll call at the entrance of the base. I guess you couldn't really see them in the base area thanks to all the lights. But from the convoy's perspective, we can see every snowflake that dropped on our bodies.

Everyone was in their exosuits wearing their overcoats to keep them warm. I can see my breath coming out of my mouth and if it weren't for the suit's temperature adjustment system I would be freezing right about now. The convoy was about 12 trucks long with an armored battalion escorting us. I have to admit that it feels nice to finally be out on this operation, but I'm still not looking forward to the four hour drive we're going to make.

By the time we reach Takada base, it'll around morning. At noon we'll do a final tune up of our TSFs and get shipped off to Sadogashima along with the rest of the Imperial Army gathering there. I'm so restless that I don't think I'll be able to get any sleep at all.

"Attention!" We all fell in on Hayase's command. Captain Isumi walked in from the sidelines along with a bunch of MPs.

"At ease. (Ruffle) Listen up. In ten minutes, this convoy will travel from Yokohama Base to the Border Checkpoint in the Fukushima Prefecture. The trip should last about four hours and from there we will switch escorts with the Imperial Army 4th Armored Tank Battalion. We will then travel for another three hours to Takada Base in Niigata and take a break there. Understood? (Ma'am) But that doesn't give us the right to intrude. Remember… we're going to be special guests in the Imperial Army. Don't do anything that will warrant unnecessary attention. And remember to be on your best behavior. I don't want anyone sullying the name of the A-09 Squadron, understood?"

"Yes ma'am!"

"Right. As per the briefing stated, our unit will be traveling with convoy on armored trucks. 1st Lt. Suzumiya and 1st Lt. Jinguuji will be riding on board the mobile command center. Car 1 will be commanded by me, Sakaki, Suzumiya and Mitsurugi. (Ma'am) Car 2 will be commanded by Munakata with Ayamine, Kashiwagi and Kazama. (Ma'am!) Car 3 will be handled by Hayase with Shirogane, Yoroi and Tamase. (Ma'am!) The trip should be nothing more but a cruise through the countryside but that doesn't mean you guys can slack off. I want one person to be manning the gun at all times during the trip. Any questions? (…) Good. Get to your cars and get ready to move out. Team leaders are to remain in contact at all times. (Yes ma'am) Dismissed"

We quickly got to our respected vehicles next to the giant trucks. It kind of reminds me of the long vacation trip my parents and I did to Shizuoka. We went all the way there just for a hot spring bath and I think I was about twelve when that happened. But of course we weren't driving heavily armored vehicles like these and definitely not carrying guns.

"Alright we'll have a drive system" Hayase proposed which got my attention. "I'll take the passenger seat. Shirogane, you drive. Tamase and Yoroi will man the gun and will switch every hour. Got it? (Ma'am) Good. Let's get this show started" Hmm? Did the Lieutenant just avoid eye contact with me? No… it must be my imagination.

"This is Car 1 to team leaders" Captain Isumi contacted us. "The convoy is departing. Maintain speed of 60kph and remain a fixed distance from each other. It's going to be a long time everyone so be on alert at all times. I will contact you again once we reach the outskirts of the base"

(2 hours later)

The trip was uneventful so far with all of us riding in our vehicle in peace. Driving through the ruins of old Japan wasn't really fun but it shows how much the country had gone through during the war. You can pretty much see the ruins of Fukushima City on the horizon. Parts of the city were going through a post war reconstruction but at least the conditions were livable.

We passed through a squatters' village built at the bottom of a bridge. People with nowhere to go tend to gather there and try to make something of their lives. I've seen plenty of them already.

As we drove on, we came upon a memorial built by the soldiers during the retaking of the mainland. There were a few Imperial soldiers there paying their respects and a few more just passing by. We must be getting close to the checkpoint if there's this much security around. There were even a few Gekishins and Shiranuis passing overhead. I guess with such a large scale operation, everyone is probably on edge and praying that it would succeed.

"Yoroi san. It's time to switch again" I heard Tama say to Mikoto. Those two have been keeping an eye atop of the vehicle. The weather condition was worsening too. The snow was starting to get heavy around these parts and I can barely see anything beyond the headlights. Thankfully the road was pretty wide and the lights given by the other vehicles made it easy for me to follow.

"Ah, thanks Miki san. I'll take a break now" Mikoto quickly got to her seat, switching to Tama. Hehe… Tama was so short that she has to stand tiptoed to reach the gun. Only her head and her hands could poke out of the hole.

While Mikoto was taking her turn for a quick a nap, I kept my eyes on the road. Hayase kept her eyes straight as well, only turning it towards the window outside. Now I know that we haven't known each other that much but I'm getting the strange feeling that she's avoiding eye contact with me. Is she still upset about our duel? No that can't be. She's more mature than that. Maybe I'm just thinking too much.

"Shirogane…" Bwah!

"Wh… what is it 1st Lt. Hayase?"

"Oi… what's with the stiff reply? (S… sorry ma'am)" It's just that I was thinking about her for a moment there. "What's wrong? You were perky the moment we left the base. Did you forget something?"

"N… no. It's not that. I just didn't think you were in the mood for talking"

"I'm always up for a chat whenever you feel like it" She flashed a small smile at me before punching me playfully on the arm. "But anyway… I want to talk while we still can. Once we get to Takada Base we'll be busy preparing for the battle. (Ah… I see…) Don't be so uptight. You'll only stress yourself even more"

We remained silent for awhile. Somehow I feel like we made it even more awkward to talk to one another. I can only keep myself focus on the road ahead. "S… so what is it you wanted to ask me? (Eh?) You wanted to ask me something earlier"

"Ah… that… well…" Hayase took a look at the rear view mirror and made sure that Mikoto was fast asleep. Is it something she can't talk when someone's listening? "Shirogane… you've been talking with Captain Isumi, haven't you? (Huh?) You've been talking with her after that incident in the mock battle. (…) Give it to me straight. What did she tell you? (Ah… umm… well… she didn't really) Don't give me that crap! I know when she has issues. That thing I did during training was more than enough to get her attention so spill!"

Ugh… well… the captain didn't say anything about not telling her so I guess I can let this one go. "Well… she told me that you have trouble holding back. (…?) She told me that you had once beaten up one of your squad mates back when you were a cadet. (…) But she also said that you had your reasons for doing such things. (…) That's pretty much it…"

"So she told you about it? I guess you had the right to know that" Hayase added giving out a sigh.

"Umm… I know it's not my place to comment but I didn't really mind what happened back there. (Eh?) I mean… clearly we were just sparring so there's no reason to worry about it"

"What are you talking about? If they stop that fight right then and there, there was a good chance that either of us could've gotten hurt"

"Isn't risking one's life part of the job of a soldier?"

She fumed at me. "Not when it's training. Back then, I could've cut your Shiranui in half. You can't just treat it like it's nothing"

"But you're the one who said not to hold anything back. (…) Listen… I'm not going to tell you that what you did was the right thing. I don't really know what happened in your past but as long as it doesn't affect any of us, that's fine. (…) Besides… despite what you did… I think the captain trusts you. (…?) She trusts you completely, despite all of your flaws. She knows that you're a capable leader and a headstrong person. That's why she knows that whenever your skills are needed the most… you'll pull through. (…) I think she knows you that much"

"You make me sound like a character from some kind of movie set"

"Ahehehe… I guess you're right. But as long as you keep who you are 1st Lieutenant… then you'll have me anytime"

"Hoooo? That sounds like some kind of love confession. (Geh!) Ahahaha"

Heh… it's strange. I feel like I've gotten closer with her. Though it might sound weird, but the image that I had for the captain and all the other 1st Lieutenants seems to have been shattered. I'm now looking at them like… they're my equals…

"This is Valkyrie mum to all units" 1st Lt. Suzumiya opened a channel to us. "We'll be reaching the border checkpoint in 5 minutes. We'll be linking with the Imperial Army and a regiment of the Imperial Honor Guards. Our escorts will return to Yokohama base afterwards. However… a contingency of the group appear to be delayed. We will remain on standby at the checkpoint until the last of the army arrive. Remain on standby until then"

"Car 1, roger that"

"Car 2, roger that"

"Car 3, understood. Looks like we'll be staying here for awhile Shirogane. (Yeah) Let's go stretch our legs while we still can"

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

The border checkpoint. One of the most isolated areas in the entire region. Guarded by only a handful of soldiers, it was considered to be the most boring job in the whole army. I can only guess that this is the only time when they'll see so much action in a long while. This place was considered to be a busy highway back before the war. You can still see wreckage of cars and armored vehicles that were destroyed during the battle for the mainland.

The checkpoint itself was built right between a Shinto Shrine atop a small hill and a stream of water near the woods. A perfect spot for a picnic if you ask me.

"Uwaaaa… this spot would be such a great place to have a picnic!" Mikoto yelled out softly to me. "You can place a mattress over by the ground over there and have a sandwich on a perfectly good day. Ahhhhh! Don't you think so too Takeru? (Hey…) Yeah? What is it?" Mikoto is strangely perky today. Is she trying to keep herself awake or is she just nervous about the upcoming operation?

"Are you alright? You sound a lot more perky than usual. Are you scared or something?"

"I'd be lying if I said no" Ok… so… "But I learned that you can't be scared of something you have no control over. (Eh?) If you can't do anything about something then there's nothing to worry about. I learned that from you Takeru" When the hell did I teach you that? "But right now I'm really calm. (…?) That's because I have you with me Takeru. (…me?) Yeah. If it weren't for you, I think I'd be very nervous right about now. All this waiting for the inevitable… is really getting to my skin. If you were to disappear now, I think I'd panic around like a headless chicken"

"Hey now. Don't sell yourself short. (Ahehehe) I'm sure you'd do fine even without me. (Really?) Yeah. You did well on your own during our mock battles. You even took down Touko from a distance without letting her notice"

"Eh? 2nd Lt. Kazama? (Yup) Ah… but that's only because you distracted her Takeru"

"It was only part of the plan. Besides, she would've shot me if it weren't for you"

"Ahh… that's true. But I'm still nowhere as good as you Takeru. (Hmm?) Even though we've all improved, we're still length behind you. Your moves are incredibly insane"

"Really? So I guess all that copying of my moves was a waste of your time. (Eh?)" I gave out a small snicker. "I heard that you've been trying to mimic my moves in the simulator. (Heeeh?) It was cute how you tried to pull a summersault and shooting at the same time. Were you trying to pull something new?"

"H… eh! Who told you about that?"

"I have my sources~ (Ahh!) Hehehe… but really… I think you're doing great. (Eh?) If you keep that up… you might just beat me one of these days"

"Ahehehe… don't flatter me too much"

"I'm only speaking the truth. And you know what… I think that idea of a picnic sounds great too. (…!) When we come back from this operation, we can have it at the back of the base by the tree on the hill. (Really?) Yeah, the whole squad can enjoy the time there. (Eh?) It'll be like the old times when we hang around one another"

"Ah… uh… yeah… (It'll be great…) But I wish it would be only two of us… (Hmm?) Ah! No it's nothing. Yeah… after this operation, we all should get together, like the old days"

"Yeah! (Ahehehe)" A picnic huh? I don't think we did that before. "Anyway I'm going to stretch my leg a bit before we roll out. Mind keeping watch of the car for us? (Sure) Alright…"

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Whoa… I never there was a shrine here. It says on the sign here that there are a total of a hundred steps to the top. I never understood why most shrines are built atop tall hills like this and can only be accessed by going through a long stairway? It's like going up the stairs itself was an ordeal. My mom even complained one time during New Year when we had to go up the stairs.

Tap… tap… tap… tap…

Hmm… the steps are pretty firm. I'm surprised they're still serviceable after all these years of no maintenance.

Tap… tap… tap… tap… tap…

Hoooo! The shrine was still here. An actual shrine made completely out of wood. Judging from the looks of it no one has lived here for quite awhile but it somehow weathered through the years. Wow… it's almost like I've been sent back to a completely different world—which is pretty much an understatement for me. This part of the hill really screams 'Japan'. It's like an old traditional house back in the Sengoku Period. Even the roof is tilled.

There was a wide open field with solid rock steps on the floor leading to the shrine. The only thing missing on this picture would be a cute shrine maiden. Ahehehe…

But I have to admit this place must be expensive to maintain. I heard that shrines like these are funded through donations. Heck there was still a donation box here. I think the last time I visited a temple shrine was when I was with Class rep. Right before New Year we visited the shrine in our hometown during the festival. She forced me to dress in a ridiculous looking kimono and prayed with her for our future. (Flash) I know this is rare to say about Class rep but she looked pretty cute in that outfit.

Hehehehe… I also accidentally dropped a 1000 yen bill into the donation box and we wished like crazy. That was my whole week salary and it was gone in a second. (Flash) Hehehe… thinking about it now somehow brings a smile to my face.

"You look pretty creepy with that grin"

"Gahhh! C… Class rep? Wh… wha?"

"If other people saw you they'd probably call you mental"

"Geez… don't scare me like that. What are you doing here anyway?"

"I was about to ask you the same thing. I was tasked by the captain to be on lookout duty. What about you? Are you out patrolling too—or are you just walking around again?"

"Ahehe… well you could say I was getting some stretch. I saw the temple so I thought I came to visit. (So you were lazing around again) You make it sound so bad. It's not like we're needed yet"

"A soldier should be ready at all times. You never know when you're needed" Yikes she's feisty today. "You may be an experienced pilot but that doesn't give you the right to slack off. You have to start acting like a professional. This isn't like cadet school anymore, you know?"

"If that's the case then maybe I should punish you for speaking out against a superior officer. (…!)" Ha! I got her there. "I'm kidding. Geez… why are you so nervous all of a sudden. (I… I'm not!) Yes you are. Your whole body is practically screaming it. Everyone in our squad knows that your lecture to me is nothing new, but I can tell when you're uncomfortable with something. (…) Didn't I tell you during the coup? If you have something bothering you then I'm the guy to talk to. I might not have all the answers but the least I can do is listen"

"I… it's nothing"

"I don't care. If it's bothering you just look me up. Anytime… any day. Well… except on Sunday, I'm usually sleeping all morning and afternoon that day. (Eh?) Well it is a holiday. That's just the time and day I really need to shut my brain down. I mean come on. With all the class lectures and simulator training that Marimo chan gives us I need at least one day to do absolutely nothing. (Ahuhu…) It goes against my religion to work 7 days a week. If I do that, I'd die for sure! (Huhuhuhu) Aha! I made you laugh!"

"Idiot. Don't make jokes of serious things. (Hehehe)" There's the cheerful face I wanted to see. "And that's 1st Lt. Jinguuji to you. You should stop calling her that now"

"Heh, I guess old habits are hard to die. (Hehehehe) Hey have you ever prayed in a Shinto Shrine before? (…?) People back in the days used to put donations in the donation box once every New Year and make a wish for the future"

"Ah… yes I've heard people doing that before" Oh? So she knows? "People would come during New Year's festival and then pray for a blessed year and leaving all their past grudges behind them"

"Heeeh? You seem to know a lot about it"

"I might not be a religious person but I know Japanese tradition. Once every year, people from every town and community will hold a yearly festival. Drawing their luck and leaving bad karma behind them" Ohhhh that's a nice image. "Shrines like this would be full of lights. There would be dancing, singing and fireworks. Each province would also have its own tradition of celebrating"

"You know a lot about festivals"

"Of course. They still hold them in the capital every year. People dressed in colorful kimonos, the lantern lights"

"You sound as if you've been there yourself"

"Of course. My mother took me… umm" Ah crud… it seems like family is a touchy subject to her.

"Ah sorry. If you don't want to talk about it then I won't press you"

"No it's alright. I just… never talked about her before" She paused for a moment before turning her eyes to the shrine. "I can't remember how long it was. 5… maybe 10 years ago. She took me to the temple in the suburbs just like this one. It was a beautiful place with so many smell and flavor. She bought me a balloon there and we played so many games. She said I was really lucky. I caught two gold fishes on my first try and brought it home with me. (…) There were so many things to do and so many things to eat. I wished I that night could last forever. (…) But eventually I fell asleep and the next morning I found myself in my bed. (…) I can't really remember that night since it was a long time ago… everything from then on was pretty much a blur to me. (Class rep…) But… there's one thing I do remember… the most important thing of all"

"… what was it?"

"… I know that for a fact… my mother and I… were really happy"

"Class rep…" Ugh… I don't really know how to respond to this.

"Heh… it's funny telling you this. It doesn't sound like me at all, does it?"

"No… not at all" I replied. "That's a wonderful memory to have, Class rep"

"Heh… yeah. It's funny. Telling you this was kind of relieving. (…) Maybe having someone listen to me isn't so bad after all"

"Heh. I told ya you could tell me anything"

She gave me a grin in return. "If only you could focus a little bit of that attention back in Instructor Jinguuji's classes. (Geh!) Heh… but it was fun. Thanks… Takeru…"

"Any time Class rep. (See ya…) Oh wait… (Hmm?) You wanna make a wish at the shrine? (…?) It's the least we can do. After all it is Christmas Eve. (I don't have any money) No problem! I think the gods will give us one free wish" I quickly dragged her to the shrine, in front of the donation box. Now let's see. If I remember correctly… we drop the money in first, ring the bell twice and then clap twice then pray. Meh I think we can skip the first step.

"W… wait a minute. What do you think you're doing?"

"What does it look like? I'm going to make a wish! Ok let's see… ummm. I wish for a healthy breakfast today! (Haaaa?) I want cabbage rolls and minced pork and real bread with butter!"

"Wait… what kind of a wish is that?"

"What's wrong with my wish? After having synthetic stuff all the time, I wouldn't mind having some real food once in awhile"

"If Kyozuka oba san heard you, she'd slap you silly"

Hehehe… yeah she probably would. Oba san is really sensitive when it comes to her food. "Alright Class rep, your turn. (Eh?) Come on, come on. Make a wish already! (No way!) Come on, what's the harm? Just ring the bell twice and clap twice and then make a wish. (I said no!) Come on, please? For me?"

"…" She gave out a long sigh. "Fine—but you have to stay out here. (Eeeh?) I mean it! Don't you dare eaves drop on my wish. (Hai hai…)" She then walked up to the shrine and rang the bell twice. "Ummm… I wish… I wish for…" Hmm… I wonder she would wish for. World peace? Defeat the BETA? Meeting her mother again? "I wish he would…" Huh? What did she say? I can't hear her from here. "There… I'm done"

"So what did you wish for?"

"Nothing complicated. It's not worth mentioning. (Oh come on!) (sigh) Maybe I should've wished for you to be less nosy in other people's business. (Hey!) Ahuhuhuhu… anyway, come on. We should be get back before they start looking for us"

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

There seemed to be more activity happening when we rejoined the convoy. Our escorts from Yokohama withdrew from the area already and were replaced with Imperial Army tanks. I could see rows of trucks and armored vehicles moving along the military express way. There are so many… I guess that should be expected since Japan was committing almost half of its resources on this assault. Everyone in this country would like nothing better but to remove that stain off land.

"We should get back to our cars" Class rep suggested. "We don't want to delay them any longer than necessary"

"Yeah… I'll see ya soon Class rep" I should get to my car too. We should be ready for anything. (Ruffle) Hmm? Hey… that hairstyle. "Tama?"

"Huh? Ah… Takeru san"

"What are you doing here all by yourself? I thought you stayed in the car"

The little girl shook her head in reply. "Ah… 1st Lt. Hayase ordered us to stretch our legs. I was walking around until I noticed this" This? It's a sign board built for temple announcements. But there were no announcements… only pictures of people and candles around it. Flowers and little toys decorated the place. C… could this be a… "It's a memorial for people"

"A memorial?"

"Yeah" Tama confirmed for me. I remember seeing something like this back in my other loops. People would make memorials in front of temples and destroyed buildings, honoring the dead in the least possible manner. I should… since we made one as well for Marimo chan and the other members of the Valkyrie Squad. We placed that memorial outside the base near the Cherry tree roadside. It's ironic since my classmates and I used to call that road the Devil's Hill since it was difficult to get up in the first place.

"I can't believe they'd make a memorial all the way out here"

Tama nodded in agreement. "I asked one of the guards about this place. He said that people sometimes come up here just to put down new flowers on the memorial. (Really?) Yeah… I can tell that the ones here were put in recently as well. You can distinguish the colors of new and old flowers not just because they wither. (…) It's heartbreaking to see such a thing… but at the same time, it's good to know that there are still some people out there who care about those who passed away"

"A shrine to hope. Even in these times, we cannot relinquish the things that make us human"

-Khan from Metro 2033-

I took a good look at the board and gazed at all the writings and pictures posted there. Some were family portraits, wedding pictures, pictures of parties, kids with their parents and so many more. Just looking at this board makes you think of how people were lost in the war. I can only hope that I won't have to add anything to it.

"Takeru san…"

"Yeah Tama?"

"Do you think we'll win this battle? (…?) I mean, I know we have to win but… I just… don't know"

"What's this? Are you having doubts Tama?"

"I've no doubt that'll you do great Takeru san… it's just that—I don't know what will happen when we get there. (…?) I know that our battle plan will work out but what if something happens? What will we do then? So many things can happen on the battlefield and after looking at this board… do you think we even stand a chance?"

"Hey now… are you saying that you doubt your own skills? (…)" I guess I can understand where she's coming from. Back in my previous loop, I was so anxious about our first fight with the BETA that I could barely get any sleep. I also wondered if I was good enough… strong enough to fight them. It was only by experiencing it through the battlefield was I able to get rid of my doubts.

"What do you think, Takeru san?"

"Well… if you want my honest opinion, there's really nothing we can do about it? (Eh?) In the end, predictions are just predictions. No matter what the battle plan is, we'll just change our plan to match the enemy. We could start with an assumption of what they'll do, but sticking to it for too long would be dangerous. We Eishi need to look at the latest information we're given, make quick decisions about how to handle it and carry them out swiftly"

"Hmmm… I can understand that"

"Marimo chan and 1st Lt. Suzumiya will be helping us keep the battlefield information in perspective. We can just focus on the battle in front of us. So we simply take out any enemies we find as quickly as possible"

"That's sound like a vague way of putting it Takeru san"

"Well that's the whole point of being a soldier. We can only fight on the battlefield. Leave the radar and number things to the brains at the Command Post. (Uuuu…) Heh… I guess I'm not a very good emotional speaker. But right now Tama… you know what I wish for? (Eh?) Right now… I wish that won't have to add anything to that wall"

"Ah… yeah…" Tama seems to calm down a bit. I can't erase her doubts but I can at least ease her up anxiety. "H… hey Takeru san… (Yeah?) After this operation, will you help me plant my Saintpaulia? (Eh?) I haven't been able to treat it lately so I thought about putting it somewhere green where it can grow. The pot I have has only enough room for a single bush so I want to put it everywhere" Planting flowers eh? Somehow… thinking about it now… I can see Tama as florist back home.

"Yeah… that sounds like a great idea. I'll definitely do that. (Really?) Yeah… it's a promise. (Hai!)"

"This is Command Post to all units" Huh? Oh it's Marimo chan. "The last of the Imperial Army battalion has arrived. Once they pass through the expressway we'll be following behind. Return to your cars and await further orders. We'll be leaving in ten minutes. Command Post, out"

"Looks like our time's up. (Yeah)" I said out with a sigh. "We'd better head back before they start missing us. See you when we get there. (Hai!)" Ugh… I'd better take a leak before I go. It's going to be another long trip and I don't want to hold it in.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Ah… this spot should be good enough. No one in sight.

Zip…

"So bold…" BWAHHHH! No wait… that voice…

"A… Ayamine? Is that you? (Hnnn…) W… wait right there! I'm busy here!" (zip) Haaa… what the hell? Why can't I detect this girl when she comes at me? It's like she's a ghost. Her personality can be hard to read but when I get close she can show it clearly.

"You done?" Grrrr… she's doing it again. "You can go back and finish if you want"

"Stop repeating the same thing!" This is almost exactly the same conversation we had back in Susono. "Anyway, didn't you hear the announcement? We leave in ten minutes. Shouldn't you be getting back to your car?"

"I have time. (Time for what?) To talk with you…"

"Well we don't have that much time. Can we save it when we reach the port? (No…) Geh… fine. So what do you want to talk about?"

"Go out with me…"

"Eh?" Wait… did I hear that right because it sounded like she said 'Go out with me'. That… can't be right. "W… what did you say? (No good?) Eh? Hey wait… did you just ask me to…"

"Then how about lunch?"

"Hey. Listen to me when I'm talking here!"

"Still no good? Maybe dinner? (Hey!) I'll bring yakisoba" What's with her? That's too direct! "It'll be perfect…"

"What will? (Later…) Ah! Hey wait a second. Come back! Oi!" And… she's gone. I know of direct confrontations before but the way she puts it is just too direct. Does she really mean like… going out as girlfriend and boyfriend? I mean… I could barely decipher what she wanted anyway. (Flash) Ugh… images of my past self with Ayamine were revealing itself. I can't let this distract me… but… I can't get that off my head. Could she be…?

"Oi! Shirogane!" Gah! Wh… what the? Hayase? "Where the hell are you? Everyone else have reported to their cars! If you don't get your butt here in ten seconds, we're leaving without you!"

"Ah! S… sorry ma'am! I'm on my way!"

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Our drive to Takada base was pretty much smooth sailing from there on. There was the occasional traffic jam on the road but other than that it was pretty dull.

While everyone else was anxious about the operation, I felt strangely calm. Maybe it's the fact that I've already experienced this or perhaps I've already been in more than one major operation… but at least now I don't have to worry about being anxious. I remember a lot about this operation and what the consequences were. The Imperial Army is committing 3 fully armed companies to this operation. I guess they aren't pulling any punches when the time comes. Yuuko sensei said she'll do everything she can to ensure that casualties are lowered to a bare minimum but she didn't make any promises for the Imperial Army.

They Imperial forces are simply here because of their own agenda and won't take direct orders until the Orbit Divers have been defeated. Only when the situation has been reverted to plan B will they fall in to the U.N. hands.

The U.N. Army here has just as much reason to ensure that this mission goes well as the Imperial Army. Yuuko sensei would like nothing better than to see her weapon get full credit for the show. ALTERNATIVE IV means everything to us and it will have to succeed. Not only will this ensure that the XG-70 gets the world's approval but it will also make sure that ALTERNATIVE V never gets a chance to finish. Though we were able to break their backbone during the coup the supporters of the plan are still trying to regain their reason. The destruction of the Sadogashima Hive will no doubt break their momentum forever.

(Takada Base near Niigata)(10:40 AM)

The weather was pretty foggy here in Niigata. You can't really see anything past the dry docks and cold weather wasn't really helping either. I'm sure by tomorrow the clouds will clear up. After all… I remember during the operation that the weather was favorable on our case.

By the time we arrived, our TSFs were loaded onto the Imperial Army Carrier-Warship 'Oosumi'. They call it a carrier but from my point of view, it looked more like an oil tanker converted to carry heavy weaponries instead. Our ship was given special treatment for final checkups while the rest of the Imperial Army force had to wait while their ships take turns docking in.

We were recommended to rest in the ship until the operation but I don't think any of us can rest in this situation. I'll probably sleep when we set sail for Sadogashima. Right now it's best I get as much stretching as possible. Sitting in the TSF cockpit for four straight hours will make anyone stiff to the bones.

I only wish we had some sun to brighten the day. This cloudy and foggy weather is downright impossible.

"1st Lt. Shirogane…"

"Hmm? Ah… 1st Lt. Tsukuyomi" I saluted back. I remember that she was part of the first landing force protecting a member of the royal family. "It's good to see you again. Thank you for all your hard work"

"I have done nothing to earn your praise but I accept it nonetheless. (…)" She then stood at attention to me. "Forgive my negligence for our previous meeting. Though it is belated—my heartfelt congratulations on your commissioning, 1st Lieutenant. (Oh… uh… thank you)" Back when we first met she used to call me just 'you'. During the coup she called me by name and now she addresses me by rank. "And I offer my praise to your performance during the BETA attack on Yokohama Base the other day"

"Oh… don't mention it…"

"Had I remained there a bit longer… I would've been able to assist you in the defense and less lives would've been lost that day" I can't tell her that the whole attack was staged besides, I don't think anyone would believe me if I told them.

"Well it's not like we expected it. All we could do is cut our loses"

"True. But nonetheless, no one can deny that it was through your effort that many Eishis survived during that attack. (…) I have seen your excellent performance… even Meiya said that you were spectacular" She talked with Meiya too? When was this?

"Umm… 1st Lt. Tsukuyomi. (What?) Is there something bothering you? (…?) Because… it's just that you don't usually talk to me unless you're forced to for some reason" The last two times she visited me was because of the Shogun's orders. For her to come to me now before the mission of all times must mean something was pinching her pride.

"I know you must be busy so soon before deployment… but I would like a little of your time" (Flash) Wait… could this be…? Didn't this also happen before back in my previous loop. "I had hoped to meet you at Yokohama base but you seem to have disappeared from the area. I would like to discuss something with you in private"

"Is this about Meiya? (…!)" Her expression tells it all. "You're right. We shouldn't discuss this openly"

"Then please follow me. I know of a place"

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

The old pier? I get it… the sound of the waves will block away our voices preventing eaves dropper from listening. The foggy weather will also hide our faces. This must be one of the old places were ferry would sail from Sadogashima to the mainland. No one will bother us here…

"I have a personal favor to ask of you" She said to me after making sure no one was around. "Though it is rather pathetic of me… and asking such a thing from a commissioned officer such as yourself is perhaps the height of my foolishness. As well as the fact of my past treatment of you"

"Tsukuyomi…"

"But you are the only person I can ask. Please… protect Meiya sama. (…) I know that you have a mission of your own but I do not mind if you can do what you can within that constraint. (…) But if you ever find Meiya sama rushing to her death on the battlefield… I ask only that you do your utmost to prevent it" She must be referring to the intervention I did back in Susono, right before Meiya offered her idea of negotiating in the Shogun's stead. Since her duty of protecting Meiya ended she needed to ask someone else to do it. "I know that this is asking a lot from you but I know for a fact that Meiya sama would listen to anything you have to say. (…) Which is why I…"

"Don't…" I stopped her. "You don't need to throw away your pride, Tsukuyomi san. I'd probably do it even if you didn't ask me. But I understand Meiya as well. She can be stubborn and probably care less of her own safety… but I don't think she'll just throw away her life recklessly. She cares about her comrades and making them sad is probably the last thing she'd do. (…) So please… you don't need to ask me something just because you feel like you need to"

"… I see…" She muttered out as if relieved. "Perhaps it was foolish of me to ask such a thing. (…) I'm beginning to see why Her Highness placed a great deal of trust in you… even though you've only met for a short time" Yuuhi? Did she say that? "In any event, it seems I am able to trust you with the safety of Meiya sama. (…?) Not only did you prevent her from risking her own life back when we were surrounded in Susono City but you voluntarily risked your own life to protect all of us as well. I can only hope that was not some act to gain favor from the royal family"

She's sharp. Nothing gets by her without a hint of suspicion. "But you're still not completely 100% sure that I'm not some agent plotting something, right?"

"Correct…" She nodded back in reply. I should've known I couldn't get Tsukuyomi to trust me. After all… our first encounter in the TSF hanger wasn't exactly pleasant. I just needed her awareness of me to make sure that she didn't do anything reckless. "As an Imperial Honor Guard… I should be extremely wary of you. Your skill behind the TSF, your ties with Professor Kouzuki… and not to mention the various rumors of your origin are topics of suspicions" Various rumors? Could she be talking about the Ministry of Intelligence? Yoroi Sakon said that I was in their list of suspects but nothing has come up until now.

"So if you're still suspicious of me… why are you trying to trust me?"

Tsukuyomi gave me a sad look. "I do not know why. (Eh?) To be honest I find it rather pathetic of me to be seeking comfort in strangers. But I cannot explain it. (…?) Do not take my word to mean anything but… I feel rather calm standing by your side. (…?) Perhaps this is how Meiya sees you" Wait… I make people calm around me? "Your posture, your stance, the way you speak to others, the way you look at them… I find them strange… yet… relieving at some point. Perhaps it is just your character that does that"

"I… don't understand…"

"I do not expect you to. But still… I find myself beckoning to ask you. Please… take care of Meiya sama… somehow" She bowed her head once again to me. Even though I told her not to throw her pride away she still… "Please… I beg of you… (…!)" Sh… she's… she's crying? Why is she crying?

"Tsukuyomi san!" Ah crap! I wasn't thinking when I rushed to grab her by the shoulders. It's strange—was she always my height? "Please don't do that… you're not exactly giving me a choice to make if you do that"

"Ah… that was shameless. Forgive me" Even though she had that cold exterior she's still soft on the inside. I guess that shows how much Meiya means to her. "You can let go of me, 1st Lt. Shirogane"

"Ah… yeah sorry. It was just so sudden that you…"

"No… it was my fault for failing to control myself. I shouldn't have allowed myself to show weakness"

"Well… I guess shedding a tear or two just shows that you're still human inside"

"Do not try to amuse me"

"I wasn't" I joked back. "But if it got you to stop crying then I'll count that as a success"

"Perhaps Meiya sama was right about one thing… you can be an idiot sometimes" Ow… Meiya told her that too? "But regardless… you have a way of relieving others of their anxiety. Perhaps that is a gift only you hold, 1st Lt. Shirogane. (…) This conversation has gone on too long. We will undoubtedly draw attention if we remain. I shall leave you be. Until next time…"

"Wait… Tsukuyomi san. (Hmm?) You're participating in the operations too, right?"

"Correct. We will be part of Whisky Company charging the main force" So it'll be the same. Hopefully I have nothing to worry about her. "We should not dally. If we both survive this battle then perhaps we can have another conversation, 1st Lieutenant" Ah! Wait… crud… she's gone. I guess she didn't want us to be seen together. A U.N. officer and an Honor Guard seen alone could spell some nasty suspicions and that's the last thing any of us need here.

But still… to see Tsukuyomi cry like that was shocking. I never thought I'd see the day that Tsukuyomi, THE Tsukuyomi would actually show weakness in front of me.

But… to protect Meiya. She didn't need to ask… I would've done it even if she didn't ask me. I should probably get back to the Carrier. Once we depart there'll be no way of getting back on land until the operation. They said that our meals will be part with the crew so we'll have to stick with the synthetic fish for awhile.

(16:30 PM) (TSF Warship-Carrier: The Oosumi)

Haaa… the breeze is so cool here you can practically fall asleep without even knowing it. Even though we aren't sailing, the waves just keeps coming in and splashes of salt water gets on your face from time to time. The weather was starting to clear up around noon; you can pretty much see the clear blue sky. It was as if the fog this morning didn't even exist. The Sadogashima Hive was now visible and most of the ships that were at port earlier had departed. To the BETA, that's their base… to us… that's our battlefield. It will the first mark of mankind's attempt to fight back at the alien invaders.

It's strange. Even though it's been almost three months, I can still remember the battle plan of our operation. Maybe all that time playing strategy game with Mikoto in my world finally paid off. I tend of remember strategy guides of missions and something of that sort.

Today's finally December 24… Christmas Eve. Back in my first loops, this was the day that ALTERNATIVE V was activated. There's no way that that an operation this huge got to be executed on the very same day. It's hard to believe that I've actually lived through this day once already. It makes you wonder if everything I've done till now has been nothing more but a dream. I hope not.

"Shirogane?" Huh? Oh it's the captain. "I was wondering who was sulking all the way out here all alone" Sulking? Who's sulking? "Want some coffee? It'll be good for afternoons like this. (Ah… no thanks) Don't be shy. It doesn't taste that bad once you get used to the blandness"

Heh… I guess I'll her up on that offer. (Gluck gluck…) Ahhh… it's not as good as tea but it somehow takes away all that nasty fatigue from earlier. "Ahhh… I'm wide awake now!"

"Hehe… that's the nature of coffee. It keeps you up when you're exhausted. Don't forget to get some rest before the operation. The last thing I need is a tired soldier on the battlefield. I need everyone in tip top shape, especially you. (Huh?) Did you forget already? In case I'm needed elsewhere, you'll be in charge of Platoon A" Oh yeah… since I'm a higher ranking tier, I became the next officer in command in case of a broken chain of command. "It might come as odd to others but you've been highly recommended by the Vice Commander"

"Yuuko sensei?" She vouched for me?

"Oi oi… I might not be strict about rank orders but the least you can do is call her by her proper rank"

"Ah… it's ok really. I call her that all the time. Besides, she could care less about formalities"

"Hmm… that's true. But in any case I think her judgment is well founded. (Huh?) Even though you've only graduated a couple of weeks ago you've already got yourself a pretty impressive combat record. Not to mention you were able to go in par with Hayase during your duel" It's not much of a record considering the fact that I've done those things twice in my lifetime.

"Ah… it's nothing really. There are greater people than me out there"

"No need to be so modest. But in any case I'll be relying on you. (Ma'am) So what's the matter? (Huh?) People who usually hang out alone usually have something on their minds. You might call it nosy, but being the captain of this squad means that I have to ensure that my team is mentally prepared for what's the come"

"Yeah, you told me that back at the base" Heck, she told me that in my previous loops too. "But it's nothing really. I'm just nervous about the coming battle"

"Well I guess that's no surprise seeing that this will be your first real fight against the BETA. In this day and age, both men and women need to be strong in order to live" That's true… back in my old world… I could pretty much care less of what a gun is made of. "But if you don't feel like sharing your thoughts then that's fine with me. Just make sure it won't interrupt the mission. Otherwise, I'll let Munakata and Hayase bully you when we get back. (Geh!) Ahahaha… I'm kidding" That's odd. The captain seems to be less tense than usual around me. Is it because of my rank as a 1st Lieutenant? Does she trust my skill that much? "Well how about I make you a switch? (Huh?) Will you listen to me instead?"

"Huh? Umm… sure. I have time"

"Good" She took a seat beside me on the edge of the ship. "Hey… Shirogane… do you know anyone in the Imperial Army? (Eh?) Anyone close that you would know?"

"The Imperial Army?" (Flash) Captain Sagiri came into mind along with Tsukuyomi and the Three Idiots. "Well… I guess I know a few people"

"I see… are they participating in this operation?"

"Some of them. Why?"

"I see…" Huh? What is she trying to say? "Have I ever told you about my sisters? I have three of them working in the Imperial Army" Her sisters? Yeah I think she told me about them back in my previous loop in time. "Although I wasn't able to ask, I had a look at the list and it seems like my youngest sister is participating in this operation as well. (…!)" That's right… the captain's younger sister is also joining the Whisky diversionary force. I completely forgot about that.

"Your sister? You must be worried"

"I'd be lying if I said no. She has good comrades around her and she can be pretty tough when she wants to be. I'd have a hard time fighting her myself. But even so… there's really nothing I can do other than believe in her and her squad. The secrecy of our unit takes priority over our personal feelings" That's right. Being a member of the A-01 Special Task Force means that we almost zero connection to the outside world. "But on the positive side… she doesn't know that I'll be participating in this operation. (Huh?) She's young and I think that not knowing that I'm here will keep her focused on her mission. Sometimes it's good to be in a secret Task Force such as this"

"Captain…"

"But it's fine. I know I might sound contradictive, but if she's anything like the rest of us I'm sure she'll make it through without a scratch. (Eh?) Our family has been known to be really stubborn… and we'd like to that word as a compliment now and then. (Haaaa?) Hehe… we all have the same bad taste in men and not to mention we're connected by blood" Same bad taste in men? (Flash) I remember… (Flash) Yes I remember that the man that the Captain fell for. If I remember correctly, he's already dead. She told me herself.

"It's a shame that you can't visit her. (Hmm?)" I opened up. "I mean… if she's family then maybe you can visit her once in awhile. Maybe once this operation is over you can go over and visit her"

"Hehe… yeah… that sounds like a good idea. If we survive this operation, we might be lucky enough to get some free leave off duty"

"Hehehe… that would be nice, captain"

"I might even introduce you to my sisters if the opportunity presents itself. One of them might fancy you. (Geh!) Ahehehe…" What the heck? The Captain's sounding a lot more like a school girl than a soldier. She doesn't treat Hayase or Munakata to this extent. "Ah… anyway, you should rest later tonight when we depart. You need to be at your best when you get out there. (Ma'am)"

"Captain Isumi…" Hmm? Who? Ah… 1st Lt. Piatif? What is she doing here? "Sorry to intrude but the Vice Commander needs you to finalize the contingency plan set up"

"Understood… I'll be right there" Contingency plan? What contingency plan? "Alright Shirogane. Looks like our conversation got cut short. Have an early dinner and get some rest. Oh and you can keep the rest of the coffee. But I want that mug back. (Captain…) Alright I'm coming"

And just like that, she's gone. I never heard of any contingency plan during this operation. It must be something that Yuuko cooked up to prevent something in the operation.

But still… what got me the most was how the captain opened up like that. In fact… a lot of people have been opening up to me lately. Is this what Tsukuyomi meant when she said that I make people calm around me? No… that can't be it, can it?

Haaaa… well… I guess there's nothing left to do but to go ahead with this plan. I can't back out now after everything that's happened. The Sadogashima Hive is just in the horizon. If we can destroy it then… (Tug!) Ugh… wh… what the? My… my head is… spinning. (Tug!) Whoa… what the? My legs are… going numb? (Tug!) Arghh!

CLANG!

Ah! The captain's coffee mug… it… broke…

I've got a bad feeling about this…