Chapter 15: The Start of the Storm
November 11th. 4:03 AM.
(Takeru's room)
[Takeru]
Zzz...
Ugh... Who's shaking me so much? It's so cold. Someone took my blanket off, they have some nerve.
"Wake up, Takeru-san." A kind, sweet voice beckons me away from slumber.
"Ugh... Kasumi?"
"Good morning." Her usual smile greets me as I open my eyes.
Oh, right. Niigata. I stretch my arms as I raise from the bed. It's the first time Kasumi comes to wake me up in this world. I had almost forgotten she used to do that.
She jumps in surprise, did she read my mind just now?
"Takeru-san, I used to wake up in the other world?"
"Yeah, everyday just before my alarm went off. You don't have to do it if it's a bother, though."
"...No, I think I'll start waking you up. Sumika-san will be happy when I tell her about it."
"Alright, you do you. I'll get ready. You can wait outside." And there she goes.
After a quick shower and changing into my uniform I get out and along Kasumi I go to the changing room to get my suit on.
"Are you nervous?" She asks me as we walk.
"No, I'm actually quite relaxed." For some reason I didn't have a nightmare today, so I'm as fresh as I haven't been since I came here.
"Why? You'll be fighting the BETA, you might die today."
"Because I won't die Kasumi. Have some faith in me, will you? You saw all the simulations we did, right?"
"But to go into battle with an untested OS is very risky. What if a bug appears while you're fighting?" She sounds really worried. She does have a point though.
"I won't be alone out there, and I won't be doing any risky stunts this time. I promise you I'll come back home safely."
"If you say so." You don't sound convinced.
I go into the changing room and get into my exosuit. Finally, I'm marching into the battlefield again. If I remember correctly, three members of the Valkyries that I never met were put out of commission today, two died and one was hospitalized, so this is a prime chance to change history for the better. If I can save them, or at least one of them, our survival chances will go up. We will need all the hands we can get for the eventual battle of Kashgar.
We then made our way to the hangar, where Yuuko-sensei was already waiting for us.
"Good morning, you two. Good to see you're here on time."
"Good morning, Sensei. How are the preparations?"
"Perfect. I already gave the briefing to the Valkyries, so you're all that's left. That Kagerou over there is your unit." She points towards a midnight blue TSF, I remember seeing Eagles during my missions and in the hangar but this one looks different.
Just like the Gekishin I piloted the other time, this one's shoulders and chest are more spiky. It's head is less round too and now has a small antenna and additional sensors to it's sides. However the biggest difference is it's waist, I remember the Eagle to have a more square shape to it's waist, but this one's was not only a bit smaller and had a certain inverted triangle shape to it, but it has some sensors in it as well. It also has two thrusters on it's back where it's pylons are supposed to be, they look more curved than our usual Jump Units and instead of having one set of Variable Wings it has two smaller ones. Sensei, you did this on purpose, didn't you? If I can only fight with guns and daggers there's no way I could go and do some of my reckless movements. I wanna sword.
"So Shirogane, what do you think of it? I based it's improvements on a prototype that was tested in Project Prominence. Since you're supposed to be one of the few survivors you should get used to hearing about the different projects that were there."
"I was just a Cadet according to the report, so why should I know anything about all the different stuff they were testing there?"
"Because there was a competition there, the Blue Flag, where all the nations showed off some of their TSFs in live combat." Wait, really?! We have TSF tournaments here?! Why did nobody told me that last time? I would have loved to see any footage that was recorded!
"So this model is based on one prototype? I suppose that it's made this way for quick maneuvering at mid range, right?"
"Exactly. You'll be fighting as a Gun Sweeper today, even if you'll only have two rifles with you. The extra speed from the new engines and the two additional thrusters along with the XM3 will make up for not having another two guns in your overall performance. Since you'll be using 36mm ammo you'll be carrying two extra magazines along with your daggers, one on each knee. Also it's painted with ARP and all it's sensors and the new radar and antenna should give you some stealth capabilities, even if you're not using the complete stealth protocol we discussed the other day. I couldn't make it in time to change it to OBL but it should still be fast enough for you to be comfortable in it. I'd say it's almost like a 3rd Generation TSF now."
"Yeah, there's no reason to use only infrared comms today. So I guess this will be a more accurate test of all the tech you made using the notes I brought, right?"
"Yes, specially the new Jump Units. I added the Variable Wings to give you more control on all those aerial movements you were doing last time. I updated the XM3 with our most recent avionics and adjusted them as much as I could to fit your piloting style, the new radars and sensors will give you more accuracy and will also help in sending jamming signals to cover your position. Remember that this is a secret mission, you're not supposed to be spotted by any other force. But with all the new toys you'll have I guess I shouldn't worry."
"Don't worry, Sensei. I know how important this is, I'm not screwing this up. So, anything else I should know?"
"Yes, you're there to kill the BETA. Leave Isumi and the rest to deal with the capture of the live specimens, and since you're not a Vanguard do not try to go after the Laser-Class unless something unexpected happens or either me or Isumi order you to do so."
"Even if I could save someone?" She stops when she was about to respond, and after a pause she answers.
"Only if you won't put yourself at risk of getting killed. If you do something stupid I won't let you take the CCSE. Are we clear?"
"Yes, Ma'am. Well, time to go." I grab the wire that takes one to the cockpit.
"Shirogane?"
"Hmm? What is it?"
"How many members of the squad were lost last time in this battle?" How weird. I thought you would be the last to be concerned about that kind of thing, so long as we brought back results.
"Three. Two died, one got hospitalized."
"I see. Don't try to do the impossible if you see them about to die. I know you said before you were prepared to not being able to save everyone, but don't push yourself too hard."
"Thanks, Sensei. And don't worry, I won't do something stupid." I salute her as I board the Kagerou.
"Good luck, Takeru-san. Bye Bye." Kasumi waved at me as the cockpit closed, I waved back and then it closed shut.
Alright Takeru, ready to rumble! Today is when the true change starts! Who cares if my squad hates my guts? I'm taking them to victory no matter what. And you Kagerou will come with me in my first hope-filled step into this bloody road of carnage.
"Viking, Valkyrie Mum here. Report your status." Haruka's voice reaches my ears. I had steeled myself during this week, but man, my feels have received a crit right now.
"Here Viking, all systems green."
"Roger that. Please proceed to the gate and be ready to launch at my signal." This time you won't die, nor Hayase, nor Kashiwagi. Let's go Kagerou! "Viking, take off! I repeat, take off!" I step on the pedals and move the controls forward.
I'm met with more speed than I had thought I would have, this is almost like the Shiranui I had last time. Did my notes brought such a huge improvement? Perhaps them and the data of that Prominence project mixed well together.
I'm on the sky flying towards my designated point in the formation, the rest of the mechs are all Shiranuis. With me, we are a total of thirteen TSFs in the squad and there are two large carriers coming along us. There's three TSFs on the front in an arrowhead, I suppose Hayase is there with the other two Vanguards. Then on each side there's two Gun Sweepers, one Gun Interceptor, and one Impact and Blast Guard. If nothing has changed about them, then the Interceptors are Munakata and the Captain. Akane should be a Sweeper, Kashiwagi should be an Impact Guard, and Kazama should be a Blast Guard. I'm also a Gun Sweeper today, so that leaves two unknown Sweepers, one unknown of each Guard and the other two Vanguards I also don't know about.
I heard from Kashiwagi that Tsukiji was also in the squad, I wonder if the rest of Akane's team in the lacrosse match is here as well. I'll find out soon enough.
"Hey, Viking." A voice I recognize speaks through the common channel. The hell are you doing, Hayase? Yuuko-sensei told me that we were supposed to be quiet while we were flying towards Niigata.
"Viking here, what is it Valkyrie 2?"
"Say, in a scale from one to ten, how good are you? Because it feels reeeeaaaalllyyy bad to have a random join us in such an important mission." Ah yes, classic Hayase here. I wonder if she'll end up hating me too? You know what? Whatever, they can't hear my real voice anyways.
"I'd say an eight."
"Oho, someone's confident! Well, try to not get in the way and actually get some kills, though in that TSF I'm amazed you can even fly alongside us."
"You say that but I bet you're actually interested in the mystery man. Fast as always when it comes to men, Hayase. I can't belive you're already cheating on me. Viking, be careful or she'll gobble you up whole." Munakata didn't waste time to tease her. Glad to see that some people haven't changed.
"M-U-N-A-K-A-T-A! That's not what this is about!"
"Valkyrie 2 and 5, if you're done chatting remain silent!" The Captain scolded them before Munakata's teasing got stronger. You did this to yourself, Hayase.
"Viking, Valkyrie 1 here." The Captain opens a private line. I'm getting scolded too, right?
"Viking, hearing you loud and clear."
"Forgive my subordinates. She's too competitive for her own good, and the other one simply cannot contain herself when she sees an opening. Do not take it as a personal offense." Always so dedicated to the team.
"I have taken no offense, Captain. A little bit of teasing is good for a team's morale on the field. It's alright, really." It's also really refreshing hearing their voices again. I can only hope I can get along with the Valkyries of this world, it would be horrible if all my squadmates ended up hating me. I can already hear all of them screaming in unison 'SILENCE AMERICAN!'.
"Thanks for your understanding. If I might ask, have you received any special orders from the XO?"
"No, I was told to follow your orders on the field until she contacted me if she deemed it necessary."
"Roger. When you receive those orders please notify me of it immediately. Valkyrie 1, out."
I wonder what orders Yuuko-sensei has in store for me today, it can't be something dangerous since she told me to not die today.
The rest of the flight went by peacefully. It almost doesn't feel like I'm going to battle, with the beautiful sunrise on my sight.
We finally reach the shore and take our position on the field. 6:15, in only five minutes they'll start their march.
The whole land is also a wasteland, I read up on the invasion of the '98 and apparently it was because the BETA split in two groups that Japan didn't fall. A big part of the Kanto region got turned into a wasteland by the time Operation Lucifer recovered Yokohama. All the Japanese forces had withdrew to the east and left the BETA from both Sadogashima and Yokohama to ravage the lands. Some places on the southern and central parts seem to still have some vegetation here and there, like the place where we found the Shogun last time and the area near Mt. Tengen, mostly thanks to the efforts of the Royal Guard and the fact that the BETA simply didn't have much time to gather all the resources. Unlike the lands beyond the Second Defense Line that are now declared inhabitable by the Shogunate and there's nothing there more than some lone military bases in case the BETA attack from the west again, and some people living in defiance to the law in their old towns.
"Valkyrie 1 to all units, listen up! Recheck your loadout and assume your formation. According to our intel the BETA will be advancing towards us in less than five minutes, so be ready at any moment." The Captain ordered just as we finished landing. The carriers retreated some distance away, for when we have to make our retreat, after dropping the equipment to capture the BETA. Some big containers with an orange liquid, some Super Carbon wires and a claw-like add-on for our arms, as well as some more fuel to resupply what we spent on our way here.
"Valkyrie 1, Valkyrie Mum here. Report your status." Suzumiya's voice spoke.
"All units are currently checking their equipment one last time."
All my equipment is fine, the thrusters are also in perfect condition. I refilled my first tank of fuel, and have the secondary at full load. No problem with the joints or anything.
"Valkyrie Mum to all units, report your status." Everybody answered the same, everyone had no problems with their machines.
Our mission is to engage the BETA on the shore after the initial bombardment from the MDF happens and before the rest of them arrive, to avoid being detected. Given the current relations of the UN with the Empire I wouldn't put it past them to attack us at first sight. I'm actually surprised we made it here without being detected, Japan's defenses are really bad. Even if this squad is using Shiranuis and all of them are registered as allied units and my Kagerou has stealth protection this is just ridiculous. We made it from one end to the other without being detected, at all. No wonder the coup went so smoothly last time, Sagiri must have known the precarious state of our internal defenses.
The minutes slowly click by, when at 6:21 Haruka's voice could be heard again.
"Valkyrie Mum to all units, we have confirmed that there's a Brigade-sized herd of BETA moving towards your position. Approximately 50% of it is made out of Tank-Class, there's a 10% of Grappler-Class and a 5% of Destroyer-Class. Less than 5% of it are made out of both Laser-Classes and Fort-class. The rest are infantry-types. The MDF Naval Platoon will be engaging them shortly. Be at the ready for their eventual arrival. Valkyrie Mum, out."
So here they come. In less than five minutes they should be arriving at the shore. Now it's just praying that things go well out in the sea.
6:25 AM. No updates yet. It should be coming right about...
"Valkyrie Mum to all units, the Ocean Defense Line has been breached. Prepare to engage. The MDF Naval Platoon will be sending nukes towards the shore as the BETA surface, remain in your current position until the bombardment has ceased."
"Valkyrie 1, roger that. Valkyrie 1 to all units! Assume your formation, remember that we are here only to thin their numbers and capture some live specimens. Don't go doing anything crazy!"
"Understood!" All of us answered in unison.
Now, it's showtime. Come already BETA, I'll use every single bullet I have on you today. And as if answering to my challenge the first figures of the Fort-Class appeared on the distance over the water. Took you long enough, you bastards.
The radar beeps, the missiles are just about to hit. And as the Destroyers rushed out of the sea a whirlwind of fire ravaged the shoreline. Multiple tornadoes made of blazes scorched the BETA, only to be followed by giant explosions. The mixed bombing approach, huh? First drop the heavy incendiary bombs, then the napalms hit the rest. With the first one you can deal easily with the Destroyers thanks to how squishy and fragile their bodies are, then when the Tanks and the rest arrive you drop the napalms to deal with their overwhelming numbers with the great AoE of the nukes.
If I hadn't seen the drop of the Orbital Corps and the explosion of the XG I would be shocked right now. But I can't really be surprised when at least a hundred Destroyers are charging at me.
"Valkyrie 1 to all units! Commence operation, march forward!"
"Roger!"
I boost jump and enter formation. The Vanguards are rushing towards the Destroyers, they jump to the sideway and shoot at them as they keep marching onwards.
Here they come, hope you're all hungry today because I have a lot of uranium muffins for you.
"Viking, come along! We'll flank them from their sides!" Akane told me as she moved forward, she's currently Valkyrie 8 and it's my pair in the right side of the formation.
"Roger!"
I do a double boost jump to gain more altitude and using the thrusters in my back I adjust my position to have a clear look of the Destroyers. I lock both Assault Rifles onto the herd and shoot at them. Akane seemed to be a bit behind me, she couldn't keep up with my speed.
"Valkyrie 8, I'll spearhead the assault on our side, you stay nearby and finish all the ones that I cannot kill. If I get too far away, send a message."
"Roger!" Wow, didn't expect her to comply so easily. So when she doesn't have a bone to pick she's obedient? Who knows what Yuuko-sensei told them about me for this mission.
I boost dash out of the way of a charging Destroyer as I lock my gun on it, then with one gun pointing forward and one pointing backwards I open fire. The bullets break through the herd as the first splashes of BETA blood paint the wasteland.
Akane finished the Destroyers that I injured but didn't kill and dashed forward to my side. I take a dash backwards as I sick my guns on the Tanks that appeared to my left. The Captain then covers me as I advance into the herd shooting left and right. I jump and use the thrusters to spin, as uranium rains upon the BETA. Using the extra thrusters I boost dash in midair, switching my gun for a dagger before I land, and once I hit the ground I dash forward while using only the left thrusters to make me spin again. As I spin and slash at a Grappler from behind, I keep shooting behind me with my other gun at all the Tanks that were closing in on me.
The other flight's Gun Sweepers were also nearby firing with their four guns at the BETA, then we get a warning to pull back. Shortly after ballistic shells rain on the monsters that charged at us.
I start doing consecutive boost jumps to rejoin my element, as the rear guards snipe the Grapplers that approach me, while the Captain and Akane keep the Tanks at bay. I use this chance to change the magazine of the gun I was using and sheathe my dagger. Then all three of us focus our fire on one point of the herd by the Captain's order.
"Valkyrie 1 to 8 and Viking! We're moving forward, break through the Tanks and secure a vantage point to support the Storm Vanguards!"
"Roger!"
I do a full boost jump to my right as I avoid most BETA in the way, but it seemed Akane was having some trouble keeping up with me and the Captain. Right, they not only lack the XM3 but they don't think to do anything more than a simple boost jump.
Doing a barrel roll and using the additional thrusters to drive myself towards the ground I put my left gun on the pylon by the side of my leg and I take out one dagger. I stab one Destroyer from above as I landed, did a sidestep and dashed forward into another one shooting it at point blank. Boost backflipped outta the way and sicked my gun on the herd from above.
"Valkyrie 6, try to synchronize your jump timings with mine. You'll get left behind if you don't put some speed in your stride." I can only hope she took it in good faith.
"R-Roger! I'll try my best to follow your lead, Viking!" She's eager to improve and isn't offended by my criticism, she is different from the other version of her. Or maybe she acts like this because she doesn't know who I am? Whatever the case, glad we can get along now. Squad of mine, you could learn a thing or two from Akane.
We resume our double boost jumps as the Tanks and Grapplers rush at us, Akane is having some trouble with the timing but she's definitely moving faster now. We shoot the ones that get close as the three of us drive past the first wave. The left flight was keeping up fine.
Some ballistic shells fall on the BETA ahead of us, and I use that opportunity to do a boost dash to get to an elevation and point both guns at the BETA. Purple blood is spilled as me, Akane and the Captain rained uranium from three different directions towards the beasts. Munakata's flight was ripping through the BETA as well, timing their attacks together. They were a bit behind us.
"Valkyrie Mum to all units, we have confirmed that the Laser-Class have reached the shore. Exert extreme caution from now on!"
"Valkyrie 1, roger that. Valkyrie 1 to all units! Be ready for incoming lasers at any time from now on, Vanguards report your status!"
"Valkyrie 2 here." Hayase sounded shaken. Don't tell me...
"Valkyrie 2, report your status."
"Half of my ammo remaining on my guns, no serious damage to my unit. We're currently retreating from the frontline towards your position. We couldn't deal with all the Fort-Class, there's too many of them to do it without support." Thank God no one died.
"Valkyrie 1 to all units, we move to Phase 2. Frontliners, cripple the BETA as much as you can. Rear teams, switch to the paralyzing shells and be ready to capture the ones that are hit by them. All units be ready to retreat as soon as I give the order."
"Roger!"
"Valkyrie 1 to Valkyrie 3 and 4, go to B Flight and coordinate as their vanguard. Valkyrie 2 come to C Flight."
"Roger!"
"Viking, do you hear me?" The Captain addresses me.
"Loud and clear."
"When Valkyrie 2 regroups with us you are to join her as our fronliners. Leave me and Valkyrie 6 to cover your backs." Of course, we have to operate in elements to avoid being flanked. Seems like I will have to go melee, Sensei.
"Valkyrie 2 here. Captain, your orders!" Hayase's Shiranui dropped out of the sky.
"You are to charge alongside Viking. Work together to cripple those bastards as much as you can!"
"Roger!"
A private channel is opened with my unit.
"Looks like I'll have to tag along with you, Eight." Is she gonna call me that now?
"I'll be right behind you, Valkyrie 2." Just like last time, eh? Seems like I'm bound to team up with you.
"You better! If you're a man you gotta go and crush those bastards as hard as you can! Now, on me!"
We charge towards the BETA, now with one gun and one dagger on each hand. I do a double boost jump and use the backthrusters' Variable Wings to line myself horizontally above the BETA. I open fire towards the Tanks and Grapplers, ripping the Tanks' legs and damaging the Grapplers' backs. Hayase charges in after my attack gave her a path forward and slashed the legs of the Grapplers from their sides, tumbling them down.
As she back dashed shooting at the Tanks, I landed and boost dashed forward dagger at the ready. More Tanks and Grapplers were falling apart to our coordinated attacks as we moved forward. The other flight seemed to be having no trouble keeping up.
As we retreated before we were surrounded the Captain's missiles hit our pursuers, as Akane kept shooting at the BETA that were nearby to give us room to retreat safely. We also kept shooting towards the unending stream of Tanks that jumped at us and the occasional Grappler. I had to switch another magazine. I'm already at less than half ammo, and around 12% fuel on my main tank. And the red dots on the radar seemed to not even be affected.
"Valkyrie Mum to all units, the Laser-Class seems to be stationed at the shoreline, unmoving. The XO orders the capture of at least ten Laser-Class. The Fort-Class will soon reach your position, be ready to intercept. Valkyrie Mum, out."
We regrouped with the Captain as we retreated, we dealt with the vanguard quite nicely. Now's time for the real show.
"Valkyrie 1, roger. Valkyrie 1 to all units, we'll capture some Laser-Class and finish this mission before we're detected by the MDF!"
"Roger!"
The whole squad starts dashing forward, towards the towering figure of the Fort-Classes. Hayase cannot keep up with my speed, as we slash at the BETA that come closer.
Now wielding the two daggers on each hand I slash at the Tanks legs. I keep my pace and stance as I dash and slash about. I take a step back and boost dash forward veering slightly right to avoid a Grappler and slash at its back legs, I do a jump backwards and do some quick slashes towards the Tanks.
I gotta say, my accuracy is busted now. Between how calm I am thanks to Maya-sensei's training, my new pace of attacks and the improved radars, I think I haven't missed a single attack today, not even against the small Tanks with my daggers. I do a triple boost jump to get back to my flight, and do a downward slash at the head of a Grappler that was on my way.
We're now just some meters away from the Forts, there's ten of them here on the right side blocking our way to the Laser-Class. Another ten would have to be taken care of by the left flight.
"Viking! We'll go and kill some Forts to clear a path for the Captain and the rest to shoot the paralyzing ammo before the Lasers start attacking!" Hayase shouted over the speakers.
"Roger! Let's go!" We both charge forward, ignoring the Tanks. I try to adjust my speed with hers as we close in on the Forts.
A stinger flies our way, I sidestep to the right and resume my boost dash. Hayase is to my left, we time our jumps and slash at the Fort from below together, tearing it's sting apart. We then switch to our guns and open fire from below it towards it's injury, uranium tears into the monster as a stream of blood is splashed unto our TSFs. One Fort down. We dash away from the tumbling Fort, slashing the nearby Tanks that tried to jump us. There's too many of them, what would have happened if I hadn't tagged along? You're telling me Hayase took care of all the Forts and covered the Captain with Akane? Just the two of them, without resupplying?!
I do a double boost jump to avoid a stinger and then use the extra thrusters to do a boost dash in midair, landing myself nearby the Fort. I dash under it from it's side avoiding it's legs and start jumping and slashing at it, it doesn't even flinch or stop in reaction to the injuries. Hayase arrives besides me and starts doing more damage with her sword.
"Hey, Viking! Take my 120mm Rifle, and go blow the nearby one's head off with your acrobatics! I'll cut this one's head myself!" I catch the rifle in midair as she threw it at me.
"Do you not mind me getting all those kills?"
"You're killing them with my rifle, so they're my kills!" Hehehe, never change Hayase! You always manage to make me smile even in the direst of battles.
I double boost dash from below the Fort towards the other ones, I got five shots of this thing. I do a full boost jump, using the extra thrusters to balance myself in the air. Now, just like with the TR! Eat this! I fire two consecutive shots towards it's head, that explodes in answer to my treat.
I do a barrel roll to avoid another stinger, and I was ready to charge at the Fort with my dagger but Hayase dashed out of nowhere and cut the stinger before it goes back into the Fort.
"I'll cover you from the Tanks, you blow their heads off! With this the path forward will be done!"
"Roger!" I dash towards my left, shooting my remaining 36mm on the Tanks that appear before me and some Grapplers that got close. I do a triple boost jump and shot the three remaining shells onto the Fort's head, making it explode. I do a boost dash to land near a Grappler that was getting too close to Hayase and slash it head with one dagger.
Now with some free room, Hayase boost jumped towards a Fort while shooting at it's stinger. Her Shiranui spun around, slashing at the Fort's body, tearing it's head apart in a flash. I dealt with the nearby Tanks to give her a safe landing. More fire opened from my right, as the Captain and Akane marched onwards along with the other Gun Sweepers. The other Vanguards were slashing at a Fort from below, getting showered in blood and flesh as they kept slicing gargantuan BETA until it fell.
We made a path between the Forts, the ones that were to the sides were bombarded with who knows how many ballistic shells. There were still some of them, but we'll have to hold them until the Captain and the others manage to capture some of the Laser-Class.
"Valkyrie 1 to Storm Vanguards! Go after the Laser-Class, we will send the paralyzing shells as soon as you get close! Use the BETA as cover to advance!"
"Roger!" Hayase and the other two rushed forward.
"Viking regroup with me and Valkyrie 8, we'll hold the line until the Lasers have been captured! Rear guard, ready the paralyzing shells!"
"Roger!" This is it, just one more push and the mission will be over. This is the most risky part for all of us, since the Vanguards have to rush into the Lasers and the rest of us have to hold this place to prevent the Vanguards from being surrounded.
I shoot what little is left of my ammo unto the Grapplers, and slash at the Tanks while doing some dash cancels to throw them off as they try to jump on me. Akane was covering me almost perfectly, with the Captain maintaining the balance with the other flight.
But then...
From the corpse of a Fort many Tanks started coming out. We were surrounded by the corpses of the Forts, as wave after wave of Tanks poured from them.
"Impact Guards, send the ballistic shells. All units with missiles use them freely, protect each other's backs!"
"Viking, take my sword with you. You can't fight with only your daggers." Akane was offering me her PB Sword, but what will she do if she gets attacked?
"What weapons will you have left?"
"I still have a full magazine of 36mm and 120mm, I'll cover your advance!" She's determined to prove her worth, the Captain is besides her so I shouldn't worry.
"Alright. Valkyrie 1, I'll charge into the herd as a diversion. That way you can shoot them down easily as they chase me around."
"Valkyrie 1, roger that. But stay close by, otherwise we won't be able to give you covering fire."
"Valkyrie 1, Valkyrie 10 requesting permission to provide support to Viking!" A voice I don't recognize speaks on the common channel.
"Valkyrie 9 requesting the same!" This one is... Tsukiji? I can't really remember well but I think it's her.
"Valkyrie 1, permission granted! Valkyrie 5 regroup with me and aid me in clearing the flanks."
"Roger that!"
"Valkyrie 1 to Viking, start the diversion!"
"Understood!" C'mon Kagerou, give me all of your accel! Let's flow into our enemies, like an unending waterfall!
I do a full boost dash, piercing through the Tanks. I spin around, do a forward dash, sidestep, jump, cancel and slash again. I take a step back and do a wide slash, killing three Tanks that were too close for comfort. The Tanks to my left are decimated by the other's fire.
Akane was shooting three rifles at the same time, timing each shot quite nicely with my jumps to hit most of the Tanks that were surrounding me. I start retreating, dealing with the Tanks that get close as the Captain gives the order to raid the Tanks.
The three Valkyries that were behind me bombarded the corpses to the left with a flurry of shells, dealing with most of the Tanks that were still coming towards us.
A loud explosion could be heard as the rear blasted the canister shells upon the Fort's corpses to my right, killing most of the Tanks that were coming out of them.
Full boost jumping ahead, I use the extra thrusters to align myself in mid air to make my Mugen stance, I fall with all the pull of gravity doing a downward slash but I use the thrusters just before landing. I end up gliding for a while, ripping through the Tanks and some Grapplers. I cancel the gliding and do a boost backflip to get back near my flight. As I retreat more uranium rains on the Tanks.
We can do this. We somehow survived the Tank ambush, there's still a lot of them around but we dealt with more than half of them already. We just need to wait for the Vanguards to-
A warning appeared on my screen and by instinct I moved backwards. Light flashed before my eyes, there were Laser-Class inside a corpse of a Fort we killed.
"Valkyrie 1 to all units! Retreat from this area! Get away from the Lasers!"
A shower of light poured from behind us, as we barely manage to escape the Laser's assault. Those bastards! A feint ambush to make us lower our guard, all to use the Lasers in a corpse that was left on our rear! This is the work of the Superior no doubt, only through him can the BETA do this kind of tricks.
We scatter about as we dodge the beams of light that follow us closely, using the BETA as cover. How many Lasers are in that corpse? If there's some Heavy Laser inside there...
"Valkyrie 1 to Vanguards! Give me a report!"
"V-Valkyrie 2, Captain both Valkyrie 3 and 4... were hit by Lasers from behind our position. What's the situation back there?!" What?! The ambush... costed us the lives of the two Vanguards? Damn it! I couldn't... Nobody could have done anything. You sons of an eldritch b****.
"Valkyrie 2 get away from there, capture of the Laser Class will be impossible in this situation. Valkyrie 1 to all units! We're retreating, Rear guards ready the containers with the captured BETA." The Captain sounded nervous, it's rare to hear her like this. Only when things went wrong in Sadogashima she sounded like this, so preoccupied.
"Shirogane, can you hear me?" A private channel opened up.
"Sensei? What is it?" I got startled by her sudden appearance.
"Suzumiya is getting me updated on the situation, there's apparently a nice amount of Lasers near you. Tell Isumi to capture some of them and then to issue the retreat order."
"You think we can avoid their attacks while capturing some of them? We're at our limits here." That seems crazy, going by the fact that we're barely dodging them while we retreat now. Akane is having a lot of trouble just focusing of escaping as the Captain covers her.
"Give Isumi the message that I order her to use 'that' ammo. Get someone to cover you as you move around, leave the capture to the experienced members. That's all." No time to waste then! I open a private channel with the Captain.
"Valkyrie 1! Orders from the XO have arrived, we are to capture some of the nearby Lasers and escape after that! She has allowed the use of 'that' ammunition!"
"What?! She... Roger! Blast Guards! Ready the Yellow Dust shells!" The what now? Yellow Dust?
All of us retreat while the ones that still have ammo left cover the ones that don't. We keep moving in zig zags to avoid the Lasers as we hide behind the BETA. Then...
BOOOOOOOM!
An explosion louder than anything I've heard roared through the battlefield. That shape... A cloud of literal yellow dust covered the battlefield. What the hell is that thing even?
"Valkyrie 1 to Valkyries 5, 8, 9, and 10. Come along with me, I'll use the paralyzing shells I have on me to stun the Lasers and you'll help me carry them. Viking, Valkyries 6 and 7 cover our backs to secure an escape route. The rest prepare the containers and dispose of any nearby BETA."
"Roger!"
I stay behind slashing at the Tanks and Grapplers, while the other two Valkyries cover me with their guns. There's too many Tanks and there's also more Forts getting closer. The Laser on the shore have not attacked yet, but if they do...
"Aaaauugh!" What? What happened?!
A Destroyer charged out of nowhere unto one of the Valkyries that were covering me, she couldn't dodge it entirely and half it's TSF was broken. She was still alive, but...
The other one shot the Destroyer from behind, and continued to shoot at all the nearby Tanks that were trying to climb onto the remains of the TSF.
I rush back to protect the Shiranui from the Tanks. Damn it, if things keep going on like this, this will end like last time. It's like I didn't change anything!
Wait... What if this time this invasion is also different?
"Valkyrie 1 to all units, we've captured some Lasers. We're retreating! All units start falling back. Valkyrie 2, report your status!"
"I'm retreating to the carriers away from the battle since one of my legs got hit by a laser, I'll be there in three minutes tops."
"Roger, everyone else let's get out of here! We've already lingered enough!"
"Eiko! Can you hear me?!" Kazama shouted over the common channel. Was Eiko the woman in the Shiranui that I'm protecting?
"Touko, I... I can't feel my legs... I'm done for, get out of here." She sounded very weak. At this rate she'll die.
"Viking to Valkyries 6 and 7. I can buy you some time, get the injured one out of the cockpit ASAP!" I rush against the Tanks. I'm getting low on fuel, but no way in hell I'll abandon a comrade that I can save. Even if I can't do more than simple boosts, that's more than enough!
A dash to the left, I slash at the Tanks with the sword and the dagger, I take a step back and dodge some of the ones that were trying to jump on me. I keep jumping and canceling to distract the Tanks. I won't last much longer, if I can't rip through them it's very hard to hit them, and there's too many around.
Damn it, some of them got onto my back! I do a boost backflip into the ground, crushing the Tanks that were on me. I do a crouch dash as I slash the Tanks that tried to jump on me, but I can't shake all of them off. Dammit! I was never surrounded by so many Tanks without ammo! Shit, this is not going-
SWISH! CLANK!
Another Shiranui dashed towards me, slashing the Tanks that were on me with it's dagger.
"Viking, are you okay?!"
"Yes, I'm alright. Thanks, Valkyrie 8."
But... something was wrong. Not only Akane's, but the Shiranuis of the ones that charged towards the Laser-Class looks like they're melting, like some mannequin made out of wax that got close to a source of heat.
"Valkyrie 7 to Viking, I've recovered Valkyrie 6. Let's retreat!"
"Roger!"
Outta here! Forward dash!
I do some consecutive jumps and joined the rest of the squad. The Captain and the others were just a bit behind me. We move away from the path the BETA were marching on, remaining low to avoid the lasers. The rear shot another of those yellow dust clouds behind us, just a few BETA follow after us.
Some minutes after that there's no more red dots on the vicinity. It's over, we made it out.
"Valkyrie 1 to all units! Report your status!" Everybody reported themselves, Hayase had catched up to us in the way.
In the end I couldn't change the outcome of this fight, but was it because of me? Or because this world is different? The BETA didn't seem different from what I remember, so what happened? Had I not being here, would the result had been worse than last time?
A private channel opens with my unit, and an unexpected voice speaks to me.
"Viking, can you hear me?"
"Loud and clear. What is it, Valkyrie 8?" For Akane to do this, what does she want to say to me?
"Sir, I'd like to ask your opinion on my performance today, if you would." She's speaking formally to me, Sensei just what did you tell them?!
"You did well today. While your maneuvering is still rather rough, your accuracy is very good. You have a good sense for being on the offensive, as well as a good eye for providing cover. You saved my back in more than one occasion today, without counting how you dealt with the Tanks that had me at the last moment. I'd recommend you to work on your dexterity, if you can maintain your accuracy while moving more faster you'll be a fine frontliner in the future. Just remember to take two seconds before acting, haste makes waste after all." I remember that she was always rushing stuff last time, so if I can somehow convince her to take a more analytical approach to her offense she will end up being a great Eishi.
She was better than Chizuru as a Gun Sweeper, since she is more suited for offense. Last time, Chizuru was more adept for an Interceptor role but who knows how she'll turn out this time around.
"Thank you very much for your words, Sir! I'll keep them in mind during my practice. Valkyrie 8, out." I hope she can stop chasing so madly after the Storm Vanguard position this time, if she can make the most out of her current role she'll learn a lot of valuable lessons.
Being able to attack on all angles is something only the Gun Sweeper can do, it's not like the Vanguards are the best units of a flight. But I guess that with the sword fetish they have in the Empire, relying on guns might be seen as a 'disgrace'.
I resupply my fuel near a carrier, and after a while the Captain gives the order to retreat and we take off. It's just 6:45, but it feels as if I was fighting for hours on end.
(Yokohama Base. 2:21 PM)
(Yuuko's Office)
"...And that's all." I finished telling Sensei of all that transpired.
"I see. So they used not one, but two ambushes. Did this happen last time too?"
"I don't know. Last time you didn't let me join the operation, since you still didn't belive me about me being from another world."
"Well then, I think I might know why this turned out the way it did."
"You do? What caused this?"
"You said that in the other version of this world the UN and the Empire we on rather good terms. It may not have been a perfect relation, but they we not at each other's throats like they're here, right?" I nod. "Then, since things are different here, it's possible that the MDF didn't take my warning seriously. I told them to be prepared for a possible BETA incursion, and yet it seems they weren't ready when the BETA surfaced from Sadogashima. We lost two ships today to the Forts, that is a lot of missiles that didn't hit the BETA when they reached the shore. It's also possible that in the other world we attacked the BETA as soon as they surfaced on Sadogashima, making the battle on the sea easier and thinning their numbers even further."
"Sigh... So it's the grudges again. Luckily we didn't run into anyone on our trip back, who knows what they would have done if they encountered us."
"Right. It's tough to know we can't rely on our most closest ally, even more after this matter with this Takamura. Here's the report on her I promised you. She's quite important, you know." She hands me an envelope with some papers.
Let's see.. Her father created the Zuikaku, she graduated rather young from an Eishi Training Program of the Empire, fought on the Defense of Kyoto, served on the Royal Guard until she was given on a loan to the Ministry of Defense. She's been working on the EML-Railgun and the Shiranui 1C since, and eventually was loaned to the UN when the XFJ Project was created as the leader of it. She supervised the testing of both the railgun and the Shiranui Second test models in Yukon and Kamchatka along her squad. After her heroic actions on the Yukon Incident she was given the rank of Captain in the UN Army, despite the fact that she couldn't prevent the bombs from exploding and she couldn't save her squad from being caught in the explosion. Apparently that's one major problem the XFJ project has, since both prototypes of the Shiranui Second got destroyed they can't continue the testing without making another, which would require money and parts. From America. That's not happening any time soon.
She's also been trained in the use of a sword, like Meiya I guess. She has her own personal yellow Takemikazuchi and has ties with some important people in the Imperial Army. She's a big fish alright, I don't think I'll be able to harm her without getting all of us in trouble. Maybe I could make her have an 'accident' while on the field? I honestly have no idea what I could do to deal with her.
According to the report, she's a very cold person. Strict with everyone, bound by her honor to serve to deliver the best possible results. A noble through and through, talking things out with her is out of the question. Maybe the reason Tsukuyomi-san warmed up to me a bit last time was because of a causal leak, but this time I won't be able to hax my way out of this.
Whatever, I'm sure she isn't stupid enough to try to harm me in public, so when she decides to strike at me I'll use the 'self-defense' card as my reason for dealing with her. Let's hope it never comes to that.
"So Shirogane, still think this is a good idea?" Sensei was still showing doubt in her voice.
"Yeah, the railgun is worth it. We probably will have to argue with the Empire to keep it after we finish it, but it's a weapon worth the trouble. If we had it today, the invasion would have been over in a flash."
"Alright, if you say so. Now then, I'd like to start reading the theories, so you go on and rest for the day. If anything comes up just leave it for tomorrow, I want no distractions now."
"Okay, later Sensei."
And from now on the real fight starts. Once Sensei gets to work with both theories she'll have to tune the 00 Unit to prevent the leak. I'll have to wait until I can see the data from today's performance of the XM3, but I'm more than happy with it. The Kagerou felt like the Shiranui I used to pilot, it was truly awesome.
I made my way to the PX, since it's still near lunch time. I grab a tray and get in line.
"Rice, miso and mackerel, please." I say as I hand my tray. I wonder how things will turn out in the CCSE, now that I'm on bad terms with everyone. Well, no point in worrying about-
My tray is dropped rather violently, it has less than half of our usual rations.
"That's your fill, move along now!" Kyozuka-san said with an annoyed tone.
"Um, excuse me, but this is not even half of our usual rations." She makes an angry face at me.
"That's all foreigners get here. Hush now, and go to the table. After all the problems you're giving those poor girls. You have some nerve to talk back." I hear the other people in the line snickering. So, you hate me too.
I grab my tray and go to a different table that was empty. Screw all of you, really. I just got back from fighting the BETA, from saving your hides, and this is what I get? No one of you is worth the trouble.
I couldn't do a thing to save the other two Vanguards, I still don't even know their names. I can only hope that Eiko-san doesn't die, if I'm going by what happened last time she should get hospitalized. But there's the chance that things go differently this time around.
I eat the little food I was given and got out. I can hear them whispering about me and calling me names behind my back. So this is what Dad meant when he told me once about how to deal with cowards. He always said that there was a group of people that would go around spreading rumors and trash talking about others behind their backs, but when confronted about it they negated everything, getting scared and playing the victim. I won't fall for such provocation, if you wanna treat me like a traitor everyday go ahead, don't be surprised when I actually betray you.
On my way to my room I saw Meiya at the distance, she's looking out of the window. She seems... angry for some reason. I shouldn't talk to her, I'll only hear more 'evil foreigner' from her anyways.
I walk past her, and as I did I heard her gasp. Maybe I surprised her walking so fast, whatever let's go to the stairs.
"W-Wait!" She calls out to me as I'm descending.
"Good afternoon, Mitsurugi. What is it?" I greet her after she reaches B1F. Her expression is a mess. She looks sad, angry and anxious all at the same time. Did something happen during the summons?
"Shirogane... Where were you during the emergency summons?" Paranoia, you're the fish on her plate.
"Special mission on the lower floors."
"Are those machines more important than... protecting the base?"
"Vice Commander's orders. Can't refuse them, you know." What is she after this time? After all you did to me, can't we just agree to ignore each other? For the sake of coexistence? Please?
"Is that so? Say, can I ask you a personal question?" A quiet, slow tone. Full of insistence, she won't take a no for an answer.
"Go ahead."
"Shirogane... Are you part of the Royal Guard?"
What did she just say? Why is she asking me this question? Did she learn something about this world's me?
"Oho, a most revealing reaction indeed." She folds her arms as a she narrows her eyes at me with an annoyed expression.
"Mitsurugi, I'm a UN soldier. I'm not part of the Guard."
"Really? Then, why were your profiles blocked?" Did she try to access them?
"There was some incorrect data on them, so they had to revise them."
"Hmm.. Then why is your UN profile still blocked?"
"I dunno. You should ask the Instructor that."
"Dodging the question? What did I even expect from you." A disgusted expression floods her face. What got into her today?
"Say, is that all? If you're done with your daily dose of hatred, can I be on my way?"
"Oh, yes. Do be on your way. But allow me to ask you one final question. I'd like you to answer it honestly, but I doubt you even know what that word means." She gets closer, bringing her face just a few centimeters away from mine.
Usually I would have gotten embarrassed or excited to have Meiya so close to me, but this time she wasn't getting close with affection. I could feel the aggression emanating from every cell in her body.
"What is it?"
"Why do you have a copy of the Minari Kamui?"
...Wait, what?
"What did you say, Mitsurugi?"
"Oh, did I stutter? Forgive me. I said, Why do you have a copy of the Minari Kamui?" She raises her voice a bit, leaking hatred.
Why does she knows about it?! There's no way she...
"Did you enter into my room without my permission, Mitsurugi?"
"Could you answer my question first?"
We stand there, gazing at each other hatefully for a while.
What did she enter my room for? What did she see? What is she going to do with that information?
"So, are you going to answer, Shirogane? Why do you have a copy of my sword with you?" What the hell do I tell her? I don't want to get into a fight, I'm not in the mood for this shit.
"It was a present."
"A present?" She looks insulted, as if the words had hurt her pride.
"Someone important to me gave it to me as a memento before I came to this base."
"As a memento? Do you seriously think I'll belive that?!" She finally snaps, as the anger surfaces.
"Belive it or not, it's the truth. The original user of the blade died, and someone close to that person gave the blade to me, so that I wouldn't forget what I learned from that person, so that I would always remember about our time together, brief as it was. That sword is not my sword, is our sword." Meiya flinches a bit when I return her gaze.
"Hmm... Can you tell me who gave it to you?"
"No, what do you want to know that for?"
"That blade is a national treasure, it can't be given away as a personal present. There aren't many of those intact, it's not something that someone like you should have." That's it. You can insult me all you want, but you're not taking the sword my Meiya gave me.
"And what the hell do you know?! You're nobody to trample on the feelings the blade has."
"Do you think you're above the law, Shirogane?! That blade is not something a foreigner should wield, it's meant for Japanese hands!"
"Sorry to inform you, but I'm also Japanese."
"Oh, really? Because you smell so much like an American that one would think you're a Westerner at first glance."
"Your opinion has no weight on the matter. The blade stays with me, you are no one to take it away from me."
"Yes, I am. I don't know if you didn't notice, but I'm actually a very powerful person." So in this world the royalty is full of jerks, no wonder Yuuhi sent Takamura to dispose of me.
"Maybe, but this base is under the UN's laws. Do you want to take it the XO or the CO? Think they'll like to get into an argument with the Empire over one of your tantrums?!"
"What was that?! A tantrum, you say? That blade is worth more than your life, it's a legacy of our ancestors. You have no right to wield it, you're nothing more than a civilian!"
"Civilians are Japanese too, you know! What? Are you stuck in the Middle Age?"
"You can't compare the knowledge of history a noble is raised with to that of a civilian. Only they can truly appreciate the value of such an artifact."
"Say, if you wanted it so badly, why didn't you take it with you?"
"I was probing you for answers, in case you had a valid reason to hold onto it. But as I thought you do not. I'll have you sent to prison for this offense against the Empire!"
"Really? Even when the original wielder recognized me as a worthy person? Aren't you just jealous of me? I am better than you with a sword, after all. I am more worthy of it than you." Rage appears on her eyes.
"Oho, you think you can mock me so openly without consequences? That's it, Shirogane. I'll call the Guard on you and-"
"And what? Pray tell Meiya-sama, what will you ask of us?" Tsukuyomi-san appears down the hallway with the Three Idiots behind her. I guess I'll die today.
"Well met Tsukuyomi, this man has in his possession-"
"Meiya-sama, what did I told you to do, regarding this Cadet?" Tsukuyomi-san's eyes were stern, but her piercing glare was not flowing upon me, but onto Meiya.
"Huh? Now's not the time to-"
"Meiya-sama, I told you to not get involved with that man. Please do not antagonize him no more, and forget whatever it is that you're arguing about." Meiya's face is painted with shock, as her eyes waver in disbelief.
"T-Tsukuyomi, this man has in his possession one precious item that-"
"Surely you understand who ordered me to take this course of action? Are you going to act against her wishes?" Tsukuyomi-san got closer to Meiya, it reminds me of the time she scolded her when she got drunk. But what did she mean? The only person that can boss around Tsukuyomi-san, other than Meiya, is... Yuuhi.
"B-But... Why?! Why would she... Who is he supposed to be?! Why does he have-"
"That's enough!"
"Tsukuyomi... Why?" Meiya looked really sad, her shoulders were trembling.
"Do not make a scene, please. That man is right, to force another conflict between the UN and the Empire over his personal belongings is simply foolish. I taught you better than this. Besides, we cannot involve ourselves with him. I will not repeat myself, if you do not wish me to report this to her you will stand back." Meiya tries to hold her gaze, but eventually gives up. She then throws a hateful glare towards me. Don't look at me like that, I have no idea what's going on here.
"Fine, I'll let it go."
"Meiya-sama, you should apologize for all the insults you hurled at him." Tsukuyomi-san I'm happy that you stopped this, but I don't think that's a good idea. Oh great, Meiya looks absolutely livid right now.
"Why should I?"
"Someone of your station should always show respect and grace to others. Resorting to insults and shouting is unacceptable. Your behavior was most disappointing, it seems you still have much to learn about poise and composture." Critical hit to Meiya's Mental Fortitude stat, I think she's going to snap at me.
"Alright. Shirogane, would you be so kind to forgive all the insults I said to you, please? Can we return to an amicable relationship as squadmates?" She was being sarcastic, she was not apologizing at all. Tsukuyomi-san was also annoyed at her, the Three Idiots however were looking at me with the usual hatred.
"Yeah, just don't try to barge into my room again. Let's just agree to ignore each other, if you hate me so much."
"It'll be my pleasure to agree to those terms. Now then, if you'll excuse me." She goes up the stairs in a storm.
Sigh... This is a F-ing mess. Why did our relationship turn out like this? Well, I can't expect to have her always in love with me. I wonder if I'm leaking some causal data into her at all.
Tsukuyomi-san sends the Three Idiots away and approached me slowly.
"Um... Thanks for stopping the fight, 1st. Lieutenant."
"Hmm? How do you know my rank, Takeru Shirogane?" What? GAH! I forgot I hadn't met her yet in this world! What am I, stupid?!
"Err... I heard about you... from the XO of the base."
"Of course you did." She smiles at me. What the hell? "Allow me to apologize again. Please forget about this incident, we do not need more conflicts with the UN."
"I understand. It's just... I thought you would take Mitsurugi's side on the argument. Did you hear what we were arguing about?" I have a feeling she might have sent Meiya away to do the dirty deed herself, to avoid getting Meiya's hands stained.
"Yes, about your sword. That is none of my concern. There is no law that forbids an owner to give it's sword to someone else, in fact that act of trust is one of the most sacred traditions of the Empire. To take the sword from you would be equal to dismiss the wishes of the original wielder." Saved by the honor code.
"I see. Thanks again, 1st. Lieutenant. I'll try to not get in Mitsurugi's way from now on. I'm sorry for the trouble." I bow to her. The last thing I need is to get on her bad side, considering that I'm already on the black list of both twins this is a futile gesture but at least I want to express my gratitude this time.
"There is no reason to thank me. However, do let me tell you some things." Ouch, she got serious. Here comes the 'Why you alive, dead man?' question.
"What is it?"
"First, you shouldn't be so emotional. It's unproper for a Japanese Eishi to be so easily flustered. Second, it was foolish to get into such an argument with not only your squadmate, but someone as important as Meiya-sama." Yeah, that was a dumb move. I got so angry when she said she was going to take our sword away that I lost control for a sec there.
"Thanks for the advice. I'll keep it in mind."
"That's all. Forget we ever met today, we're lucky this happened after the alarm. If people wouldn't have gotten outside to breath some air this incident wouldn't have gone unnoticed. We have been ordered to not interfere, so do not expect our assistance next time." Ordered? Again with this.
I'd like to ask her, but... What if I blow my cover and she stops being careful around me? Does she know? No, being Meiya's guardian she must know about my situation already. So, she's holding back for now. If I want answers the only time I can get them is now, before Takamura arrives. I'm already on the black list of the Shogunate, it can't get worse.
"Excuse me, but I'd like to ask you about that. You said to Mitsurugi that 'someone' ordered you to not involve yourself with me. I don't undestand why you didn't take offense when you saw me arguing with Mitsurugi, and you even told her to leave me alone. It almost looked like you were helping me, but why? Who ordered you, a Royal Guard, to have that deference towards me, a mere Cadet?" She makes a complicated face as she caresses her hair.
"I have not the right to speak of it. Surely you already know."
"No, that's why I'm asking. What reason could you have to not pursue a suspicious recruit? Especially someone who you saw fighting with... well, Mitsurugi." She shows a hint of anger in her eyes as she gets close to me. But as she got closer her face turned into a smile as I see my world's Tsukuyomi's kindness in her eyes.
"There's no reason to keep up the act around, Takeru-sama. It's alright, I'll keep Meiya-sama's temper in check. You focus on performing the duty Her Highness assigned you. We shouldn't be seen together, so I'll take my leave. Take care, and good luck on your CCSE." Tsukuyomi-san leaves, and I'm stuck in a daze as I watch the green haired shape move into the hallway.
Okay, what the actual hell just happened? She took my side on the argument, she called me Takeru-sama, she was smiling at me, she said I was here performing a duty on the Shogun's orders, and she even wished me luck on the CCSE.
I HAVE SO MANY QUESTIONS! I need to go talk this out with Sensei!
Wait... She told me to not bother her no matter what. Goddammit, this is too important to leave it for another day, and it's not like it'll take too much time to tell her about it.
And with that, I rushed towards Sensei's office.
