Update: Some grammar fixes.
Chapter 30: Proof of Heart
November 29th.10:12 AM(Sim Room)
[Takeru]
"So, since the Undersecretary is coming tomorrow, all trainings from noon onwards are cancelled. I will be busy helping with the preparations on B3F, so you also won't be able to use the pods. Use this time to relax, as soon as December starts we're jumping into the mock battles. Shirogane, I received word from Takamura that her mission will not require your assistance during these two days, so you are allowed to enjoy your free time according to the Professor's orders. That's all. Dismissed!"
"Salute!"
"...I can't belive they just cancelled our training without a single warning." Meiya was clearly angry at this turn of events, going by her sharpened eyes and dry tone. She was groaning to herself as she folded her arms, looking at the pods with tightly closed lips.
"We can't do anything about it. Squad, let's use this time to review our lessons and get as ready as we can for the mock battles. We did finish Level C today, let's keep up the good work!" Chizuru smiled at us confidently.
"Roger!" The girls all gave an energetic reply.
"...Roger." Energy depleting... Need food... I think I did save some of my breakfast for after the simulations.
"Shirogane, are you okay? You've been kinda off all morning." Chizuru came near me, and arms crossed she looked at me in the eye.
"Yeah, I just had a lot of work to do yesterday night."
Takamura, you're a monster. Well, I can't really say anything since I sworded my way through three buildings trying to get you off guard. We toppled a quarter of the ruins in our battle. I ended up losing, when she used her arms to damage my arms, I had forgotten the Takemikazuchi's hands are also weaponized. We did duke it out for half an hour, so I'm happy with the result even if I lost. I managed to catch her by surprise and I actually knocked her sword away, but the difference in our mechs was too big, and since she isn't exactly a pushover I couldn't overpower her with my speed. She didn't lose her cool and actually gave me a run for my money when she tried to chase me. But the fact that I could stand up to a Type-00 in a Kagerou, even if it had the XM3 and it's upgrades, is proof enough that we are on the right track. That said, that battle tired me out more than I thought.
"Takeru, are you sure you're fine? Maybe you should go rest?" Thanks Mikoto, but I can't just go to sleep, as much as I want to.
"Can't do that, it'll mess up my internal clock. Luckily, I can just laze about today." I'm sure Sensei did this out of consideration, after yesterday's battle I was completely spent. Not even with an Albright I could take her down. I thought that coming at her from behind at top speed would do the trick, but nope. She sidestepped at the last second and started chasing me, firing at the buildings to my sides to close my escape roads.
"Well, it is a relief to get a breather for sure. Shirogane, could you come with me later? I have something to give you." What could Chizuru have for me? Another Chop-kun doll?
"Sakaki-san, what are you going to give him?" Tama was eyeing Chizuru with stinky eyes. Mikoto followed suit.
"W-Why are you looking at me like that? I just prepared some notes for him, since he can't go to the library like we do." To see her blush and shake so naturally is a rare sight.
"Thanks, Sakaki. I'll read them throughly when I get the chance."
"Y-Yes, you do that. It would be a problem if we couldn't coordinate our movements during the mock battles." She started making circles in the air again. But she avoided my eyes, blush still there. Is she embarrassed?
"Chizuru-san, how nice of you! You wouldn't happen to have some for us too?" Mikoto's smile was like a sword, and despite tilting her head to look cute she appeared to be even more terrifying.
"Yoroi, I did this for him because he can't access the library. It's for the good of the squad. Right, Mitsurugi?"
"...I suppose." Meiya just looked away, going towards the changing room. Her voice barely audible, shoulders down and with a slow pace she exited the sim room.
"Well, anyways, we can't really stand around so let's get going." Chizuru takes the lead as she stretches her arms forward.
We all go towards the changing rooms. Things seemed pretty tense in the hallways, everybody was hurriedly running somewhere.
"Hey, is the Undersecretary someone really important? What does an Undersecretary do anyways?" Mikoto asked the group, receiving puzzled looks as an answer.
"Of course he is important, it's the man that connects the High Command Council with the Parliament." Chizuru obviously knows her political stuff, I never found out what exactly Tama's Dad actually does though.
"Ooh! Then he's a super important person. I wonder what he's like."
"Yeah, it makes you wonder. What kind of person the... the Undersecretary... H-Hauuu..." Tama froze in place, eyes became two big white dots.
"Miki-san? Are you alright?" Mikoto waved her hand in front of her, but she remained still.
"Tamase? What's wrong?" Chizuru looked back worriedly at the frozen shape of Tama.
"In Shirogane's words, she's tilted." Apparently Meiya had noticed we were coming and waited for us. I never thought she would start using my words to describe stuff. Meiya looked at Tama, circled around her for a bit, poking her. "It seems she's out of commission."
"Hey Tama. Do you know who the Undersecretary is?" Color returns to her eyes, and very slowly she starts shaking.
"She knows. Spill the beans." Kei grabs her from behind and starts to give her head pats very aggressively. Death by forced pampering, a new form of torture has been born.
"Awhawhawha..."
"Could it be... Tamase, is the Undersecretary your father?" Chizuru, you hit the jackpot so hard it's now a crackpot.
"Haauuu..." She somewhat nods under the pressure of Kei's menacing head pats. Kei seemed to be enjoying herself though.
"Ayamine, stop it. Tamase, you don't have to be nervous. You've been doing a fine job in your training, I'm sure he'll be proud of you." Chizuru, my dear, that is not the problem here. It's... Wait one second, last time I got beaten up, right? I can't belive I'm happy the HSST is gonna fall, if only because I'll avoid that horrible fate.
"T-That's not the problem. You see..."
...
"Your father believes you're the Squad Leader?!" Chizuru's glasses turned white as the shock left her mouth hanging wide open.
"I just told him of how I was improving after the CCSE, and he somehow turned that into me being the Leader. I'm sorry." Tama starts bowing repeatedly at all of us.
"Don't worry Tama. It's not your fault. Did he misunderstood anything else from your letters?" She got tilted again. Oh God...
"Miki-san, what else did he got wrong?" Tama starts violently shaking in place as her eyes spin in a counter clockwise way.
"I-I can't tell you! It's too embarrassing! I'm sorry! I'm sorry!"
"Please stop apologizing, you did nothing wrong. Whatever shall we do about this? Sakaki, should we just be honest with him?" Meiya, I don't think that will work. I mean, considering how he usually acted in the past loops...
"Hmm... I mean, we don't really have a choice, do we? It's not like we can fake our ranks, that's a violation to the UN's code." She raises both arms in defeat. Should I suggest the same plan as I always did?
"Special-kun, any ideas?" Kei stared at me with half closed eyes.
"No, not really."
"Hmmm... You looked like you wanted to say something." Kei's stare intensifies upon me, making the others stare at me too. Uuuhh... I think this isn't a good idea this time around.
"Shirogane, do you have an idea to help Tamase?"
"Well Mitsurugi, you see..."
One explanation later...
"...and that's the gist of it."
"Shirogane, do you really think you can convince the Instructor to allow Tamase to be the Squad Leader tomorrow?" I can't blame you for being skeptical, Chizuru.
"Sakaki, if there is one person who can convince her it's him. I'll tag along to request this of her. It would be a shame if their reunion took a sour note for this misunderstanding." I didn't think Meiya would volunteer to help me.
"Sniff... Thank you. Really, I'm sorry for the trouble." Tama starts bowing at us again.
"Tamase, do not apologize no more. Sakaki, I assume you have no qualms with this if the Instructor gives her approval?"
"Of course. Honestly, I don't want to break his illusion, and it's not unheard of for squads to change their leaders after they start piloting. Now is the most believable time to do something like this, since Tamase is more fit to be in the backrow we can just say that the position was given to someone who could be in the middle more naturally if we ever get asked about it." I'm so glad this Chizuru is more understanding. She is taking into account Tama's feelings and their effect in her performance, even if it means doing something 'wrong'.
"Don't worry. You'll do a better job than her." Kei smiled at Tama as she patted her head again. I can already-
"Ayamine, what do you mean by that?" Here we go again.
"By what?"
"You just insulted me again."
"Nope, you're wrong."
"Why do you always talk through your teeth? It's as if you couldn't deal with an actual conversation." Chizuru seemed really pissed off this time. The tension of their simulations must have built up more animosity in her.
"Pure slander."
"Then what did you mean? Are you saying that I'm not good enough again?"
"You were never good enough though." Kei dashes behind me as Chizuru was diving at her. She again grabs my shoulders and uses me as a human shield. I may be able to pilot the XG, kill thousands of BETA, and travel through space-time, but releasing myself from Kei's grabs will forever remain as an impossible feat for me. And I'm also too hungry to even try.
"Don't hide behind Shirogane! Come out and speak up!"
"Sakaki, please calm down! We should go change, we still have to talk with the Instructor." Thanks Meiya, keep the chill coming.
"Y-You're right. I shouldn't let my temper-"
"Sassaki." Goddammit Kei! Oh great, Chizuru's eyes resemble those of the Legendary Super Broccoli.
"Girls, let's calm down. We can't go bothering the Instructor now of all times, right? The lecture wouldn't be enough to placate her wrath this time. Wouldn't you agree, Mitsurugi?" I wink at her, asking for support. She blushes slightly but nods at my words.
"Just like Shirogane said, we can't go making more trouble. Please keep it down you two."
"Grr... She's the one who started it." Chizuru looks away and starts walking.
Tama and Mikoto sigh as we keep walking towards the changing room. Wait a sec, did Kei do that to change the atmosphere? I mean, Tama looks more calm now. She can be surprisingly kind when she wants to.
I get out first since I'm alone in there and as I got out, I could see a pair of red figures hide behind a hallway. Are those...
"Oh, you're already out." Meiya and the rest came out in their fatigues.
"Do you want to go talk with the Instructor now or after eating something?"
"Hmm... We still need to go run our laps, but considering that the trainings are cancelled we can just go to the PX today." Tama and Mikoto breath a sigh at Chizuru's words.
"I see. I'll be in the track field, go there when you want us to go." I wave at them and go towards the hallway to my right.
"Wait Shirogane. Can't you come to the PX with us? I mean, your punishment was lifted for the day..."
"No Chizuru, one punishment was lifted. I still can't go to the barracks or the PX. So I'll rest there until Mitsurugi is ready to go talk with the Instructor. Later guys." Mikoto seemed like she wanted to say something, but didn't. I went my way to the track field.
...
Man, it's been such a long time since I could come out for a breather. The sun feels so nice... I stand in the sunlight, enjoying the wind as it blows through the track field. I open the food pack and eat the little I left for this time. Sigh... In less than a day, we get the first real test here. Will we make it? Or will I fail once more? I can only belive in Tama, she has done many incredible things through all of my loops.
"Excuse me, Cadet." And my rest is ruined. I just can't catch a break, can I?
"Yes? What is it?" Two pairs of emerald eyes meet me as I turn around.
"Good day. Seems like you're progressing in your training just fine, Cadet Shirogane." Shion smiled at me widely, showing me her teeth.
"Well, he did defeat me in our fight. It would have been a shame if he were to be unable to pilot." Mion also smiled, with a small hint of darkness in her eyes.
Both of them were wearing the red dress of the Guard. I wonder what do they want? Shit, I'm kinda tired and I'm currently unarmed.
"Well, I've been doing my best. Did you need something of me?"
"Can we ask you some questions? I am reaaally curious about you, actually." Shion took a step forward, pointing one finger to the sky.
"Fine, I guess. What did you wanna know?"
"Who're you working for?" Her eyes changed to those lightless, oppressing, hawkish eyes she had during the CCSE.
"The UN?"
"Playing dumb? Well, do you like natto rolls?" She changed her face to a shining smile for some reason.
"Yeah, I do. But why are you asking me this?" I'm one of those weird people who don't mind eating natto rolls, and that made Mom and Dad always give me those when we went to eat sushi while they ate all the other ones. Damn pricks, just remembering that is making me mad.
"Y-You do, huh? Then, do you know what steamed doubin is?"
"Yes, it's my favorite food. But could you stop talking about food?" She sharpens her eyes at me again, Mion does the same as she speaks up.
"Why? Are these questions bothering you, by any chance?"
"I've lost my lunch due to my punishment. You know, for what I did to those soldiers? So talking about food right know is like torture for me." I show them the small pack of rations I have on me.
"You were punished for saving Meiya-sama?" Mion moves her hair behind one of her ears as she stares at me.
"For harming the soldiers. Nobody believed me when I said I did it to help my squadmates. Anyways, do you want to ask anything else?" I can't really tell why, but I'm feeling really calm now. Maybe because I saw their child versions? I mean, I'm not here to harm Yuuhi so there's no reason for us to fight actually.
"Yes, you seem to be really good with a blade. Can you tell us where you learned that?" Mion smiled faintly as she played with her hair, Shion on the other hand was silently staring at me with a poker face. I can only drag the conversation and hope someone notices this. Or would they... Yeah, they would leave me to my misery. My best bet is waiting for Meiya to... But what if she's cooperating with them? Haauuu...
"I learned from someone that was on Yukon Base."
"Hmmm... Say, we have our doubts about you. Considering your words at me when we fought, I suppose you don't know who we are, right?" Her eyes slowly were turning into those same eyes she had during our fight.
"Aren't you relatives of the 1st Lieutenants? I think you said that your sister was the one here, so you're 1st Lt. Mana Tsukuyomi's sister, while Shion would be 1st Lt. Maya Tsukuyomi's, right?"
"Ooh! He got it right!" Shion bursted suddenly, smiling again at me. "So Shirogane, the question here is, do you know us?" She said wiggling a finger at me.
"No? Aside from your relation with 1st Lt. Tsukuyomi, I've no idea who you are. I'm the one who wants to know why you called me by my name when we fought." Gotta play my part here, to make the 'I have amnesia' thing to be credible.
"So you don't know who we are?" Shion brought one hand to her chin as her eyes started to lose light again.
"I mean, we never met before right? Why would I know you? Do you happen to know who I was here?" This may actually be a nice chance to finally get some answers about his life here.
"Wait... What's the meaning of that?" Shion flinched back. Both of them stared at me with wide eyes.
"I mean... I don't really remember much from my life in Japan. I woke up in a hospital in Alaska without many memories, and since no one could find any relatives I have no idea who I used to be. Hell, I don't even know if my parents are alive." That is not a lie, we do not have any idea who the hell he was.
"You... You lost your memories? Shirogane, is that true?" I mean, technically when I first arrived here my memories were kinda jumbled up, and I didn't exactly recall most of them.
"Yes, I honestly don't know. Though I've been dreaming about my childhood for a while, I think I used to live around here, when there was still a town." Suddenly, Shion sprung forward and grabbed my shoulders.
"What else do you know? Who did you live with?!"
"H-Hey, it hurts! I dunno, I can't really remember." I don't know if I was actually living with Maya-san or if she was just looking after me, so I better shut up about that.
"Shion, let him go!"
"Shut up! Takeru, do you remember visiting the capital?"
"Huh? No, I don't. And why are you calling me by my name?" Shion's eyes were fierce, but the glow in them had changed.
"Shion, we can't arise suspicions. Let him go." Mion pulled gently on her shoulder, and slowly Shion released me.
"So... Can I get an explanation for why you're asking me this questions? Did you knew me before I left the Empire?" Shion looked to the ground, while Mion returned my gaze.
"That's... Shirogane, do you remember anyone from your childhood?" Did they take the bait? Mion seemed serious, so let's assume it did work.
"Hmm... Two boys named Jouji and Masahiko and two girls named Chie and Sumika." Let's keep quiet about that memory I saw of their little selves, since it would imply that I do remember them.
"...Could you describe them?" I suppose she's testing me, to see whether I really know or if I'm just a spy repeating a speech.
"Well, I only saw them in a dream but..." I describe the children's attitudes, appearance and usual clothing. Their eyes started wavering as I talked.
"So that's what you recall... W-Well, we might have been suspicious of you due to you coming from America, but if you're a Japanese citizen then we have no more reason to question you. Forgive the inconvenience." Mion gave me a small bow and prepared to leave, but Shion took a step forward.
"Mion, I still have some questions for him. Don't decide by yourself when we end this."
"S-Shion, I believe we have already spent enough time here."
"I mean, when did this become an interrogation?"
"Takeru, shut up." She's not giving me an inch, and she's calling me by my name again. "Mion, you're not in charge here, so I'll ask him some more questions. That's alright with you, Takeru?" She smiles at me wickedly. I do not like that smile.
"Uuuhh... Shion, why do always have to be like this?" Mion pursed her lips at her cousin, who just chuckled at her.
"I guess I can answer some more questions if you want, I don't want trouble with the Guard, so if I can clear whatever suspicions you have I'll gladly answer your questions. But you still haven't told me what you know of me, did you know me or not?" If I can get some answers right now things will go more smoothly. Win-Win.
"I dunno. We may or may not have met." She giggles as she sees my expression to her answer. "Now then, do you remember having any siblings?"
"No, I think I was an only child." That part is true for me, but I don't know if it's the same in this world. Shion looks down, a small shadow covering her eyes.
"I see. Then, do you remember having any military experience before joining the UN?"
"Not that I can tell. I did catch on quickly in my trainings, but I don't think I had any experience before." And since I don't know what kind of training he had I can't make up bullshit this time.
"Hmm... Can you show me your stance?" She stroked her chin slowly as she got closer.
"My stance?"
"Yes, when you get ready to attack with your sword. Show me your pose." She moved her hair out of her face and returned a fierce glare. I slowly take my Mugen stance, I see their lips tremble a bit.
"Is this good enough?"
"Yes, thanks. Well, I have one last question for you." She smiles again as she brings one finger to her lips. Mion tenses up, slightly moving her brows in confusion.
"What is it?" Shion smiles wickedly at me, as she sharpens her eyes and they glow weirdly at me.
"...Have you ever been kissed?" What kind of question is that? That's a personal-
"S-S-SHION!" Mion's outburst caught me by surprise, I'm sure her shout could be heard from within the base. Her face was reddening badly.
"Oh, what is it, cousin of mine? I did not aim the question at you." Shion smiles as she plays with her hair. Steam comes out of Mion's ears as she opens and closes her mouth.
"Y-You can't go asking that kind of personal questions! It's unproper for a Royal Guard to-"
"So Takeru, have you ever been kissed?" Shion ignored Mion's rambling and gazed at me again, joyfully smiling from ear to ear.
"...I don't know?" I mean, I have been kissed in my other lives, but in this one I... well, I've been alone, so no action whatsoever yet.
"So you can't remember? Such a shame, right Mion?" Shion again smiles at her cousin, who grabs her shoulders and starts dragging her away.
"Shut up! Shut up! Shut up! We're going back! No backtalk! Aneue is gonna kill you!" And there they go. Leaving a cloud of dust in their way, Mion drags Shion back to the base.
"Bye Takeru! We'll go bother you later!" Shion shouts as she waves at me.
...Okay, what the hell just happened? Did this world's me kiss one of them? But wasn't he... I mean, Yuuhi seemed really attached to him. Does this mean I fooled them? I can only wonder what they'll do next. There is the General to worry about too.
As I was lost in thought, I saw Meiya coming closer.
"Oh, hey Mitsurugi. Should we go see the Instructor?"
"Yes, but before that..." She crosses her arms and stares at me with narrowed eyes. "Shirogane, what was that? I saw both Mion and Shion leaving in a hurry, and I heard a loud scream. Did they threaten you?"
"No, they again came to ask me a lot of weird questions. I think they know something about my past, going by their reactions. Shion kept calling me Takeru and asking me things about my childhood."
"Your childhood? Do you remember anything from it?" Meiya's eyes shone brightly for some reason as she got a bit closer.
"I've been having dreams about it, but they're just small little things really."
"That's not true! I mean, if you remembered about your life that means... W-Well, you would not be treated as a foreigner no longer. And aren't you happy to recover some of your memories?" For some reason you look happy about it.
"Yeah, but they're just small tidbits. Well, let's waste no more time. I'm sorry for dragging you into this." I give her a small bow, I don't want her getting more negative with me after all. But she seems to be bothered by it, as she fidgets in place.
"Do not mention it. I volunteered myself for this, now let's be on our way."
We make our way towards B3F, where the Instructor said she'll be. The hallways were still bustling with activity. I can only hope things go well tomorrow.
"Shirogane?"
"Sorry, I was lost in thought. What is it?" Meiya avoids my gaze for a while, as her hands play with her tags.
"Um... I wanted to apologize for my behavior yesterday. I... well, shouldn't have gotten upset at you after all you did for me. Could you forgive me, Shirogane?" Her voice seemed clear, her eyes had no clouds over them. But is she being honest or is this some ploy to make me lower my guard? Regardless, I can't go making things worse.
"It's cool, Mitsurugi. But why did you get upset? Did I said something that I shouldn't have?"
"No, it's just... Do not worry about it, twas nothing but a show of weakness of my part. Also, can you stop calling me Mitsurugi? I thought we had agreed that you could call me Meiya." She purses her lips as she stares at me, and I know when she's being honest so I can tell she isn't lying here. But why is she bothered by that?
"Well, since you got angry at me again I thought it would be best to put some space between us, I don't want to anger all of you again. Is it really alright for me to call you Meiya?" She looks away as a blush appears on her face, then she faces me again with serious eyes.
"Yes, you can keep calling me Meiya. But on one condition."
"W-What condition?" Is she going to ask me to tell her all I remembered from my past? Or to go talk with Tsukuyomi and the General or something like that?
"You can call me by my name... if I can also call you by yours." She looks away as her voice faded to a whisper.
"You want to call me Takeru?" She jumps slightly in surprise and starts fumbling her hands in the air.
"No, I don't. It's just that it would be fair for me to call you Takeru since you call me Meiya. So, if you wish to keep calling me-"
"Fine, sure."
"Huh? Fine? You mean... I can call you Takeru?"
"Why are you so surprised? It's not like I care about etiquette a lot, if you're comfortable calling me Takeru you can do it, I don't mind."
"Really? Then... T-Takeru?" The blush on her face grows larger as she comes closer, looking at me with bated breath as if she were waiting for my approval. Meiya, stop being so cute. When she gets all bashful my heart melts, since she reminds me of my world's Meiya a lot. Must... suppress urge... to hug...
"Yes, that's me. Now stop getting all embarrassed." I smile at her to hide my own embarrassment causing her to slightly pout at me.
"I am not embarrassed! So... Takeru, let's hurry to the Instructor's room."
"Yeah, I know." We resume our walk, but now Meiya was bearing a small smile. What got into her? What caused her to act like that yesterday and what brought this change today?
Some time later...
"And she basically said that she will order Tama to be the leader for the day, on the grounds that I have to be part of all the evening trainings from now on." We got lucky she was willing to hear us out, honestly.
"I'm sorry Shirogane-san, because of me..."
"Don't worry Tama, this was my idea to begin with."
"So, I suppose Tamase will have to guide the Undersecretary during his visit to our side of the base, right?" Chizuru seemed relieved things went our way.
"Exactly. Tamase will only have to play the role for a while, it shouldn't pose too much of a problem. Also, Takeru suggested that we make an armband to... Hm? What's the matter? Why are you looking at me like that?" The rest first opened their eyes wide and then stared at Meiya menacingly. I can feel the bloodlust behind their eyes. I think that just maybe the Nucleus is going out of control.
"Meiya-san, how did you call Takeru just now?" Mikoto smiled at her, but her eyes were wide and looked lifeless.
"How? I called him Takeru, did I stutter?" She looks at me for confirmation. So you can't even tell they're upset?
"No, you didn't."
"Mitsurugi-san, why are calling Shirogane-san by his name?" I've very rarely heard Tama being bothered by something. She was slightly puffing her cheeks.
"Why? Well, he's always calling me Meiya so we agreed that I could call him by his name as well." She had to go and say it so happily, folding her arms and rising her chin upwards.
"Huh, so that's how it is. So Shirogane-kun, you allowed Mitsurugi to call you like that." Chizuru was narrowing her eyes at me again. Are they jealous? Nucleus, you're gonna get us killed.
"Keep it in your pants, leader." Kei, please don't taunt her. I am glad she at the least seems unaffected by this jealousy.
"Ayamine, now's not the time for your quips." Thank God she ignored her.
"Of course not. Now it's time to swoon." All the rest blushed fiercely after hearing Kei's words. She however remained as calm as usual.
"A-Ayamine, what do you mean by that? Can you stop with your double meaning phrases for today?!" Chizuru berated her as she hasn't done in a long while, while the rest started fidgeting.
"Are you really that thirsty?" Kei, stop!
"What are you implying?"
"Here, have some water." Eyes closed, she hands Chizuru a bottle. Where did she even got that from?
"I don't need it!"
"C'mon you two, stop fighting." I can't belive it, Kei must have gotten up on her wrong side today.
"Yes, Takeru is right. We should discuss what are we to do tomorrow if the Undersecretary asks us about our trainings." Meiya backs me up as she looks at Kei.
"...Takeru, huh?" Kei smiles at Meiya, who blushes again and purses her lips.
"Well, anyways! Takeru, in what do you think Tama's dad is going to come? Maybe we could get to see a destroyer?!" I've never been more grateful for Mikoto's random outbursts than I am now.
"Yeah, that's probably what they'll use, right?" Let's try to get back on topic.
"Y-Yeah, Papa did mention the re-entry destroyer sometimes." Tama had regained her composure and followed up on the conversation.
"Then, it stands to reason why they don't let us do our mock battles. In any case, let's discuss what we'll do tomorrow." Meiya got in charge of the conversation, and we started to discuss our ideas.
After that, we helped Tama practice giving us some orders, but she got super tense and started shivering midway through it. Later, Chizuru gave me a folder with some notes and along Meiya and Tama they explained to me what they came up with, which are the same plans and formations we always used, but with me as a Gun Interceptor. Now they wanna use Meiya and Kei as our vanguard, me, Mikoto and Chizuru as our midfield, and Tama alone in the backrow. Seems like they value my vision and pacing more this time around.
When the sun started to go down I excused myself and went to Hangar 90, where I checked up on the orders I had left during morning. The design of the sword seemed to be defined already, now it was time to do the math to see if it worked. The M61 was ready to be mounted, but we need some more time to double check the internals of the Takemikazuchi, we do not want to break it just to do things fast. The rest of the weapons are coming along nicely. I also gave an explanation to the mechanics and engineers about how I saw the Blade Armor for the Shin Kagerou, with fins similar to the ones on the Super Tomcat. It would have them on it's forearms, feet, legs and shoulders. That will protect it from all the Tanks and it's not that hard to do, unlike mounting a machinegun on it's waist like we're trying to do for my Type-00C.
Sensei had taken notice of Mion and Shion's movements but didn't have much time for me today, so I didn't bother her much as she seemed really tired. So I went to Kasumi, and we could see the kids playing again, but this time inside my house during a rainy day. What I found weird is that I couldn't see my parents at all, only Maya-san was with us, keeping watch and making some food for us. Kasumi said Sumika was overjoyed at seeing all of these memories, but she soon fell asleep. This is more tiring than I thought for her. I carried her to her room and left her in her bed. I told her to not exert herself...
Oh well, tomorrow's a very important day. Let's get well rested and hope for the best.
November 30th. 12:42 AM.
(PX)
"So you're sure I won't get yelled at or anything?"
"Shirogane, this is not a regular situation. You can remain in the PX with your squad until the Undersecretary arrives. Sakaki, come with me." The Instructor and Chizuru leave the PX, Chizuru seemed really upset about this, going by her brows.
"Hopefully Sakaki can deal with this without losing her composure." Meiya watched as Chizuru and the Instructor disappeared into the hallway.
"I know Chizuru-san is the leader, but why are they making her guide the politicians?"
"I think it's because of her standing, right?" Meiya nods at my words as she comes back into the PX.
"That is it exactly. Well, nothing we can do about that. Tamase, you're the leader now, what should we do?"
"Huh?!" Tama jumped up, a sweat bead appeared on her forehead. The armband Meiya made moved slightly as she started shivering.
"Supreme Leader Tamase-sama, your orders if you may." Kei, you're just making her more uncomfortable.
"Huh? I... err... E-Everyone, remain in standby and... a-and... Haauuuwhawha..."
"Miki-san, you can do it! It's not so hard." Mikoto beamed at Tama, who sighed deeply and calmed down a bit.
"T-This is harder than I thought." Maybe if we had trained them with the Game Guy and the Stallion using CryRing Saga she would have gotten more used to the idea of leading.
"Do not worry, it will be over before you know it. Have faith in yourself." Meiya smiled at her warmly, easing Tama's nervousness.
"Hey guys... Think that's the ride?" Kei called us as she looked outside, where a figure on the sky was closing into the base.
"Oh! So that's a re-entry destroyer! I never got to see one up close." Mikoto was staring at it starry eyed. Was she so into this kind of thing last time around?
"Papa is... Papa is... Awhawhawha."
"Tamase, do not lose your composure. It is unproper to act in such a way, surely you've been taught how important poise is, right?" Meiya looked like an older sister now. Tama straightened her posture and stopped shivering.
"Y-Yes, but I'm not... I mean..."
"So guys, shouldn't we go to the barracks?" They nod and we all look at Tama.
"Right. Tamase, your orders."
"E-Errr... Everyone, let's g-go back to the barracks."
...
"Let me tell you, they didn't stop talking about all of this stupid regulations that are literally useless in this day and age!"
"It is most troubling to have politicians like them."
Meiya and Chizuru were talking about the guys Chizuru had to guide just a while ago, with Kei surprisingly nodding in agreement to them.
"I wonder if Miki-san will be alright."
"We gotta belive in her Mikoto. And Kasumi is with her, so she'll be fine."
"Hmm... You trust in Yashiro a lot, don't you?" Putting her hands on her waist she leans forward, staring suspiciously at me.
"Hey, cut it out. Kasumi is friend, you know."
"Really now?" Mikoto stop being a jerk.
"H-Hey, they're coming! Squad, line up!" Chizuru spotted them at the end of the hallway and we all formed up, awaiting them.
The Instructor, Tama's Dad, Kasumi and Tama, who was clearly tense, arrived at the barracks.
"T-This are the barracks, sir. To the left are the women's rooms and to the r-right are the men's rooms." Tama looked like a robot during a short circuit.
"Oh! This barracks do look nicer than the ones on the rest of the bases I've visited. Papa is so happy for you Tama!" He's still the same doting father here, huh? Wait a sec, is he gonna do that same joke about me and Tama being together? This will not end well.
"S-Squad, salute!" Wow, she did it on her own this time. We all salute, we see the Instructor smiling at us.
"We've been waiting for your arrival, sir!"
"These are the members of Squad 207. Allow me to tell you that they've been excelling in their training, even if they are almost more trouble than they're worth." Ouch. Marimo-chan, forgive all the cruel things I did to you. You have no idea how much I miss you right now.
"Oho... So this is Tama's squad? Oh, you're the one from before... Chizuru Sakaki-kun, right?" Chizuru takes one step forward and bows.
"Yes, sir."
"You must be exhausted after having to endure my fellow's ramblings, they can be very obnoxious I know."
"No, sir. It was an enriching experience." You were badmouthing them just a second ago though. I see Kei holding her pockets. So she wanted to comment on that.
"I heard you are Tama's second in command, am I right?" Oh, who told him that? The Instructor is grinning, so that's how it is.
"Yes. I have relied on her sound advice many times. I cannot count the amount of things she's done for me." I would like her good will to be repaid, but alas...
"Yes, I've heard about your attitude from Tama. You're just like your Father. Stubborn, inflexible, prone to violence and worst of all loud and rude. Do try to not give Tama any more problems, will you?" Wow, she's holding it pretty good. Despite her trembling eyes, she's maintaining her posture.
"Y-Yes, sir. I'll do my best." She takes a step back and rejoins the line. As she does she shoots a glare at Tama, who starts quivering. Kasumi pets her head a bit, trying to calm her down.
"Now, you would be..."
"I'm Mikoto Yoroi, sir." Please try not to cry...
"Oh, yes. You're the happy one. The one who's always smiling and making everybody laugh with her eccentric quips." Phew, so this time Tama wrote nice things about- "And the one who's surprisingly flatter than Tama." Dammit Tama!
"...Y-You know how much... Waaahhh!" Off she goes, leaving a trail of tears in her wake.
Tama keeps shivering while Kasumi keeps petting her. The Instructor is holding her mouth, so even she's finding this hilarious.
"Hm? What a strange fellow. Now, you would be..."
"Kei Ayamine."
"Oh, yes. You're the strong one of Tama's squad, right?"
"You're Tama too." Kei, no! "Nice mustache, by the way." Dammit!
"H-Hey! Do not talk back to the Undersecretary!" Tama suddenly snapped and yelled at Kei. Oh God, she's twitching.
"Forgive me, Squad Leader." She's narrowing her eyes at Tama, who flinches back. Tama, you're so dead. Kasumi nods at me, that means Kei is gonna have her revenge on her, huh.
"Well, I've heard you're quite a mystery and that you usually do your own thing. Do try to not get in Tama's way. You don't want to be like Sakaki-kun, right?" Double kill! I don't know who was more offended by that.
"...Yes, sir."
"Then, who's next? Oh, you must be..."
"I am Meiya Mitsurugi, sir." Meiya steps up, saluting him.
"Hmm... Yes, I can see it. Hmm..."
"Do you not have anything to say about me, sir?"
"No, you see, I'd like my head to remain above my shoulders."
"I see?" A question mark sprouted above Meiya's head, who clearly didn't understand his words.
"But well, seeing you here is a relief. Now I know why Tama could keep her hair like this." He nodded as a grin appeared on his face.
"P-Pa... I mean, Undersecretary that has nothing to do with her."
"Hey, Sakaki... What are they talking about?"
"Hmm? You know, of why Mitsurugi and Tamase get to keep those ridicu... I mean, long haircuts without nobody saying anything." Am I missing something here?
"Sir, in this base we are allowed to maintain our personal appearance as we please, so long as it doesn't go against the dress code of the UN." The Instructor explains to him. I didn't knew we had a dress code here, since we get handed our uniforms after all.
"Oh, I see. Shame it's not the same in my office... Sniff... I do miss my old mustache from time to time." A single tear runs down his cheek. Wait... His old... You're telling me he had that same flamboyant mustache in this world?!
"Papa, don't be sad. Someday you'll be able to have it like that again." Tama beamed at her father, he smiled widely.
"Oh! Tama, my dear! You've no idea how happy I am that you can keep your do! Forgive Papa for making you go through so many hardships."
"N-No, Papa it's not your fault!" I feel like I'm missing something important here.
"Why is he so sad about that? What happened to him?" I look at the rest, who just make complex expressions at me.
"Don't ask me, we try to not pry into each other's business, remember?" Chizuru shrugged me off.
"He took an arrow to the mustache." Kei, are you being serious?
"Hm? What was that?" Crap, he heard us... "So you've told them about your bow skills, Tama? You must trust in them a lot." He smiles warmly at her, who starts fidgeting.
"Wait... Bow?"
"Oh right, you didn't know. Tamase is really good with a bow. We always used to poke fun at her, about how she should use a bow instead of a gun when we had started our training." Chizuru tells me with a smile. So this world's Tama was also good with a bow?
"Tamase is really good. But maybe Tama Elder hit himself in the face, and lost his mustache like that." Kei smiles as she strokes her chin.
"H-Hey! Ayamine-san, no disrespect to the Undersecretary!"
"Oh! You look so graceful when you give orders, my Tama. Papa wants to see you give some more orders, go ahead!"
"Hey you! If you've nothing better to do, go scrub the latrines!" Why do you always point at Kasumi?! And why do always obey without protesting?! Kasumi looks at me and smiles, then leaves towards the baths. Sigh...
"You look so mature. Papa is kinda sad, my cute little daughter is becoming a woman..."
"P-Papa, don't say that. It's embarrassing!" The Instructor smiles at her, same for Kei and Chizuru. However, Meiya was looking away.
"And you're the last one... Takeru Shirogane, am I right?" Let's do this, Takeru! The HSST is coming at us right now probably, so just endure it.
"Yes, sir!" I step forward. His gaze observes me all over, this is actually a bit embarrassing.
"I've heard many great things from you. You're strong, fast, smart, driven, and kind above all else. Tama has mentioned how many good deeds you've done for the squad, and how you've helped them to improve in the short time you've spent with them."
"No, sir. I've just been doing my best efforts to not fall behind."
"And modest, to boot! You wouldn't happen to also know how to shoot a bow, would you?"
"Huh? I mean... No, I do not." I almost said yes. I do know how, but I don't know if this world's me also knew how to. So, shut up Takeru.
"Well, you can't be perfect after all. However, I heard you gave Old Man Mooroka a run for his money during an interrogation, not many people can do that. Your grit is most remarkable!"
"Thank you, sir."
"Hmm... Yes, you'll do just fine. Please Shirogane-kun, keep supporting Tama and standing by her side from now on, as you have been doing so far." Ah, yes. Here we go. "Let's practice for awhile, try calling me Papa!" Now that I think about it, his attitude towards me is the complete opposite to that of my world's version of him.
TUG
"Shirogane-kun, could you explain what he means?" Chizuru, please do not get so upset.
"I mean, shouldn't we ask Tama about-"
AGGRESSIVE TUG
"Takeru, I have something to ask of you. Do not worry, it won't take long."
Meiya and Chizuru looked even more pissed off than how they usually were in my past loops. Meiya's eyes were blazing purple again while Chizuru's turned into chainsaws.
"Awhawhawha..."
"C'mon, guys. D-Don't go overreacting. I'm sure Tama has an explanation for this."
"Hm? I got the impression there was something between you two from Tama's letters, am I wrong?" Yes! Yes, you are!
"Undersecretary." Oh? What is Kei planning to do? "You misunderstood. There is nothing between them." Meiya and Chizuru's grasp on my shoulders eased a bit. "And it's because they're so close, that there is literally nothing between them." God-fucking-dammit Kei! Don't smile at me like that!
"Oho... So they have already gone that far..." He closes his eyes and caresses his mustache.
"Takeru, could you please explain what this means?" Meiya was clawing at my shoulder. Her eyes, full of purple flames, resembled those of a snake.
"Tamase, why didn't you give us the happy news?" Chizuru went and addressed Tama in a small and slow whisper. Tama started shivering even more.
"Sakaki-kun, don't make trouble for the Squad Leader." Kei teased Chizuru, who turned towards her clearly pissed off.
"Ayamine, I am just asking for confirmation on what the Undersecretary is saying."
"Really?"
"What are you implying now?"
"You're just jelly because you can't get Special-kun's special milk." Kei said in a mocking tone, which made Tama and Chizuru turn into tomatoes. The Instructor couldn't hold it in and I heard a noise escape her lips.
"Takeru, what is Ayamine talking about?" Meiya was the only one who didn't get it. You sweet cinnamon roll...
"Don't ask Meiya. It's better for you to not know." She pouted as she heard my answer.
"Why is that? I mean, if you have access to a special type of milk, I would very much like to try it. I've heard that milk is usually processed to have many different nutrients, so if it's not much trouble, could you spare a cup of your milk for me?" She can't... I heard that wrong, right? There is no way that she asked me that with a straight face.
"Pfft... Ahahahahah!" The Instructor couldn't hold it in anymore and started laughing.
"Hmm? Why is she laughing like that?" Meiya folded her arms as she tilted her head, looking at the Instructor.
"M-Mitsurugi, you... do you know what you just said?" Chizuru's face was completely red. Even Kei was blushing a bit.
"Ayamine, this is your fault." I send a scowl at her, and she ignores me as she closes her eyes and stretches a hand forward.
"Unexpected collateral damage. It was fun to hear though."
"You can't just say things like that! Look what Mitsurugi said because of your joke!" Chizuru was stomping the tip of her foot in the ground. Kei shrugs, which makes her even more angry.
"Um... Can any of you tell me what is the problem? I mean, is there any reason why Takeru can't give me some of this special milk of his?" Shut up, dammit! I should be worried about the HSST, not you! Ugh, I can tell my face is completely red by now.
"Awhawha, someone stop Mitsurugi-san!" Already on it, Tama.
"Meiya, I forbid you from ever saying the word milk ever again."
"Eh? B-But... But why can't you-"
"Wahahahaha! Tama, your squad can really put up a nice act, can't they? Ahahaha!" His loud laughter, along the Instructor's, left us baffled. Is he doing this to spare us the embarrassment?
"Oh... Y-Yes, sir. It was merely an act to show you how good we get along." Nice reaction Tama. Oh, Mikoto's back.
"Hey guys... Hm? What happened?" She stared with a finger on her lips at the blushing faces of the rest and the laughing adults on the side.
"Don't ask Mikoto. Just don't."
"Thank God Yoroi didn't heard that." Me and Chizuru share a sigh.
"Hm? Hey, what happened? Meiya-san, why is everybody acting so strange?"
"I do not know. Takeru refuses to tell me why he can't share with me some-"
"Mitsurugi, when quiet you're prettier." Kei put one finger over Meiya's mouth, sparing all of us of the embarrassment.
"Well, let us continue with the tour then!" And as Tama's Dad prepared to move...
VROOOOM! VROOOOM! VROOOOM!
Thank you HSST, for saving me from this awkward moment.
"This alarm..." The girls look in shock at the red sirens.
"Undersecretary, DEFCON 2 has just been declared. It seems a destroyer lost control and is going to fall near us. Please accompany me to the underground command room." The Instructor apparently received her orders from a communicator.
"I see. What will be of the Cadets?"
"I do not know. For the time being, they should-"
"Surface Pilot Cadet Squad 207. Assemble immediately in Briefing Room N°2. I repeat-"
"They're calling us to the briefing room?!" Chizuru's yell was mired by fear. The rest also looked tense as a cable.
"What is the meaning of this?! Ugh, Yuuko!" The Instructor sighed as she stroked the top of her head. "Squad! Head to the briefing room on the double!"
"Roger!"
"Take care, Tama." Tama's Dad took one last look at her before leaving.
"Y-Yeah... I'm off."
...
Sensei's explanation went by just as I remember it, with the Undersecretary chiming in midway, until she revealed the OTH Cannon.
"This is one of this base's greatest weapons, the OTH Cannon. It's already assembled, ready to fire. We'll take it down with this."
"Professor, the OTH Cannon isn't an anti-air weapon! It doesn't-"
"Oh yes, it can do it. It's our best bet after all. And we did improve our base's equipment not so long ago." She sent a brief glance at me.
Right, she did mention this yesterday, that the new radars and sensors will help Tama with more accurate data on her Fubuki, even when the Fubuki itself cannot be upgraded. She also said that she could indirectly help her aim by upgrading her TSF's auto-aiming data with that of the training units we have been developing here. I mean, she did say that the auto-lock wasn't good enough, and that she wanted me to prove her how good going manual was, but I didn't expect her to try to improve the response time of the automatic aim systems too. Is that why I didn't miss most of my attacks during Niigata? Just how good are those new sensors? I'll have to read the docs throughly when I get the chance.
Sensei explains to the rest how the OTH works, it sounds exactly the same as what I remember. Except something about how she improved the shell's CPU to make it more accurate. Did she use something from Alt. IV, just like she did for the XM3?
"Professor! What are you saying?! Tamase is still a mere Cadet!" Glad to see the Instructor doesn't just go along with this mad plan, even if it is our best bet.
They start going back and forth again. Tama is clearly shaking now, holding her shoulders tightly. Eventually, the Instructor submits to Sensei's plan and faces us.
"The fate of this base... is in your hands now, Tamase." The rest hold their breaths, Tama seems to have stopped breathing as she stood frozen in place.
"No... I can't... I'm not... I'm..."
"If the Professor has chosen you above all the pilots in this base, it means you're our best bet to avoid this crisis." She tried to pat Tama's shoulder, but she moved backwards. Still quivering, she retreated away from us and the Instructor.
"I can't... I can't protect you. I'll fail..."
"Tama, please calm down. Listen to Papa, you can do it. That won't happen again, you've been training for this, haven't you?" He tried to get near her, but she kept moving away towards the door.
"Tamase, keep wasting your time and the whole base is going to disappear. Your father right there will die too. Do you want that to happen?"
"I can't do it!" Tama sprints away, not even stopping at her Father's hand.
Her Father looks at the door, clearly pained at Tama's reaction. The rest are all clearly staring hatefully at Sensei.
"...Professor, I do think you're going too far." The Instructor sent a scornful gaze at Sensei, who returned one full of stalagmites.
"Marimo, that only matters if we survive."
"Professor... Why can't we evacuate? Or have someone else shoot it down?" Mikoto stepped up, despite her shaking hands.
"Even if we evacuated, the secondary wave would scorch us to death, and it's not like we have the time to get many people under B10F in less than fifteen minutes. As for why it has to be Tamase, it's because she has the best numbers. She is the number one sniper not only from this base, but from the whole Far East Defense Line, I am not exaggerating. But I will only wait five minutes for her, I do have other pilots. However, do let me tell you that this will reflect negatively in your resumes, to run away from duty like this. Now, go and see if you can find her and bring her to Hangar 16. I'll be waiting."
"Everyone, let's go!" I scream as I leave the briefing room. Sensei gives me a faint smile. Everything is under control, huh? Regardless, it has to be Tama. Otherwise, her self-esteem will plummet if she runs away now. Not only for the Kashgar mission, but for her own growth, she has to surpass that fear.
All of us take a different area, I rush towards Tama's room in the barracks.
...
"Tama, are you there?" With the sirens booming around, I enter the dark room.
"...What should I do?" I turn the lights on, and she her shivering on her chair. And on the desk, there were the sauntpaulias. Our flowers, the ones that brought us together. Memories of our times, both in my world and in the other loops come back to me. As well as her ends. When she was devoured by the Tanks, when the Superior turned her into a Soldier-Class, when a light post squashed her beyond recognition. Tama...
"Hey. How're you feeling?" I slowly approach her, she's still crying.
"...I'm scared. I can't do this."
"Nice flowers, by the way. It's a wonder they grew so much in a place like this." She looked up with her reddened and teary eyes.
"...Papa gave me the seeds when I enlisted here. They're called sauntpaulias, it took a lot of time for them to bloom. Actually, they got sick not so long ago. They almost withered."
"That's a relief."
"I don't know about that." Huh? Her voice sounded broken, is she not happy that they didn't die?
"Why do you say that? Didn't you take care of them a lot?"
"...T-They remind me of my Mom. And that makes me sad sometimes." Her mother? Now that I think about it... I never met her Mom, and they never talked about her when I got into a relationship with her. I don't really remember that much from our relationship back in my world, so I have no idea what kind of woman she was.
"But... You didn't like your Mom?" She rises her head and I unconsciously take a step back.
"Of course I did! She was... I adored her. She was always tending to the flowers in the gardens, back when all of this war was so far away." She again hugs her sides as her gaze sinks lower and lower.
"Then, don't you want to protect that memory?"
"...I can't do it." She slumps into her seat again.
"Tama, I think you can do it. I've seen your progress, and I think you have what it takes to rise up to the occasion." I try to speak softly and crouch near her seat. Our eyes meet and the distorted light within her gaze makes my heart tear up inside.
"...Why? Why do you belive that? You could do it instead of me, you're so much better."
"I'm not as good as you. The TSFs have proved that, I'm decent, but you're a natural. Have some faith in yourself, Tama."
"I can't do it! I just took my first piloting run, I get... really anxious all the time. If it weren't for the auto-lock, I'm sure I would miss all of my shots. I can't even think, I just shoot! My hands get all sweaty, I can feel this pounding in my head... If you all weren't by my side... Someone like me can't protect anyone."
"Nobody can protect it's own life alone though."
"Huh?" She looks at me again, I wipe the tears of her eyes before continuing.
"Someone once told me that, in my old squad. I don't think it's a bad thing, we all get really scared from time to time. Hell, when I started I was such a failure, if my whole squad hadn't got together to get me in form, I wouldn't be here today. It's not a sin to rely on others, Tama. Because I'm sure the rest feel the same, they're also anxious and nervous. And because you're behind them, they can rush forward without fear." She shakes her head as she hugs her sides tighter.
"That's wrong. No one could feel safe with me..."
"The flowers do though. And anyways, we can't run or hide. We gotta face this head on, and I belive you're our best bet, so at the very least I feel safe with you." I smile at her as I get closer, she looks at me, tears falling from her cheeks.
"That's not... I can't..."
"Tama, even if you don't, the Professor can get someone else to do it. But there is a reason she chose you above everyone on the base, think about it. If whoever takes the shot fails, wouldn't you regret it? Wouldn't you keep thinking on 'what if I had'? It's a great responsibility, to defend the whole base. But isn't that what you've been training for? Even if it's fighting the BETA, shooting down an HSST, or defending a base, didn't you train because you wanted to protect something?" I reach out for her head, to try to calm her down. However, she knocks my hand away quite strongly, making me fall backwards.
"SHUT UP!"
"Eh? T-Tama?" Her shout caught me off guard, her eyes were sharp, she was angry. I remained still on the ground as a monster spawned itself within Tama's eyes.
"What do you know about me?! What do you know about war?! You were living in America, what do you know of this war?! Don't talk to me like that when you haven't lost anyone close to... Ah..." She stops shouting and starts to cry again as she turns away from me. What did... happen to her?
"Tama, you mentioned your mother a while ago. Does that have anything to do with this?" I slowly get up, minding my distance.
"...Please leave."
"Is that what you truly want?" She nods slowly.
"Well... Take it easy then. I'll go shoot that thing down. Or fail miserably at it."
"...Eh?"
I turn back and try to leave but I feel a tug on my back.
"W-Why? Why would you do it? It's impossible... W-We're just Cadets, we can't..."
"Tama, there is always a way to make things happen, just that sometimes we can't see it right away. You know... I lost everything I had before coming here."
"Huh? You lost... everything?" How many times? I don't even know anymore.
"My base was attacked by the BETA, everyone on my squad died. I was the sole survivor, so I decided that I would fight to bring some peace to the world they left behind." Though it's actually worse than that, since I have my world's blood on my hands now too along all the fuck ups during my loops in the Betaverse. Both from the time I ran away and from this time.
"Your base... Your squad... B-But then, why did you come here? Why didn't you stay in America?"
"Because this is the place where I can help the most. Someone I respect a lot told me that those who wish to bring forth a change in this world must not look away from their responsibilities and must not waver when they have to bloody their own hands. I don't want to lose everything again, I wouldn't be able to live with myself if that happened. I don't know what you went through, and I won't lie to you. I don't understand you, everything won't be alright, and all of us will be dead in around ten minutes if we do nothing. So, if you think about it, doing something and failing equals the same as doing nothing, right?" I turn around and smile at her, her eyes oscillate around the room.
"W-What are you trying to say?"
"Is is really the same though? Even if you failed, do you think we would hate you? We wouldn't have the time, I assure you. But, even if we will disappear, even if this is where we die, I want to live. So, even if it's pointless, I'll do my best. Because a little something is better than nothing. Even if I fail, at the least I'll know that I tried and I won't die with the weight of the 'what if' in my heart." She shivers as she wipes the tears off her face.
"...You're strong. I'm not. I couldn't possibly..."
"Nah, I'd say I'm an idiot who doesn't understand the situation. And even then, I still belive you would be better for this. Tama, I belive in you. So, even if you fail, I won't hate you for it, and neither will anyone from the squad. If this are our last minutes alive, would you rather be here, alone in the darkness? Or do you want to protect this base, or at least your father?"
"I... I can't. I'll just..." Her breathing gets rugged. There's no point in pushing her more. I don't know what's different this time, but she can't do it.
"Alright. Forgive me for being so pushy. I gotta get to the hangar. Bye Tama." I move towards the door and get back to the hallway.
"...Wait."
"Hm?" I turn around. Tama had her eyes closed with both hands grabbing the ribbon of her uniform.
"Shirogane-san, do you truly think... I can save Papa? Do you really belive in me?"
"Yeah, I do. And even if it's not you, if we fail it's all the same. But do you want to be the one to protect him? Do you want to stop that HSST?"
"...Yes. S-So... even if I fail... You all won't hate me?" Tears again fall from her face, what the hell happened to her in this world?
"At the very least, I won't." She takes a deep breath, and after opening her eyes she comes to my side.
"T-Then let's go. I... I'll do it. I will... I will protect Papa! And all of you! I won't... I won't let anyone die! I will show Papa the result of my efforts!" She wipes her tears and shouts loudly. Despite her shaking frame, her eyes burned with a passion that I've rarely seen in her.
"Alright then, you better hurry up. We gotta get to the hangar before the Professor picks someone else."
"Ah! Yes, let's hurry!"
...
We all gathered at the rooftop again, just like during the first loop.
"You made it just in time, Takeru." Meiya smiles at me as she passes me my transceiver.
"I'm glad she agreed. She was really shaken, I tell you."
"Good boy." Kei, I'm happy that you're happy, but don't pet me like that.
"Tamase, are you ready?" Sensei's voice rings on my ears.
"Ready anytime!" Tama's firm voice replied.
Sensei gave her the explanation and finishes it with an 'Impress your father, Squad Leader Tamase.", nothing goes unnoticed in this base, huh? So far so good, we still have enough time to fire three shots.
"Loading first shell. Aligning shot. Checking target's trajectory... All green." Tama's voice showed no hint of hesitation.
"Firing in ten, nine... three, two, one..." And there goes the first shot. Tama loads the second shell. "Impact in ten, nine... two, one... Target Intact!" Piatiff notifies us, clearly tense. No changes to that, huh?
"Two more shots..." Mikoto holds both hands together in a prayer like pose tightly.
"She can do it." Kei was also tense as she gazed at the sky.
"Actualizing data... Aligning shot..." C'mon Tama, you can do it! After the countdown the second shot is fired.
"Impact in ten, nine, eight... two, one... Target Intact! 115 seconds before impact!"
And it also missed. Just like during the first loop.
"Tamase..." The Instructor took off her transceiver and bit her lips. Even if she is super harsh with us, she still values our squad a lot. I was a fool to think she was just an angry version of Marimo-chan.
"You look extremely calm, Takeru."
"Hm? Of course I am, Meiya. Because Tama's gonna take that thing down." She smirks as she heard my answer.
"You have complete faith in her, huh?"
"Don't we all?" The rest finally sigh and recover a small smile.
"Everyone... I will not miss, I was just getting used to this cannon. Next shot... will hit."
"Go for it, Tama."
We all look at the sky, as Piatiff announces the countdown for the last shot. Tama takes one last breath and shoots. But the result from the shot...
...was not what I, or anyone for that matter, expected. Piatiff's terrified voice revealed something that clearly haunted her.
"This readings... A G-Bomb?!" The mention of the G-Bomb froze all of us in place. A G-Bomb was inside the HSST, and when Tama took it down, it exploded.
"Professor, did I heard that right?! Did you just say a G-Bomb?!" The Instructor's tension was apparent as she screamed into the transceiver.
"Can everyone hear me? It seems a G-Bomb was also present in the HSST, according to the data it exploded on midair. So far, it seems like it has done no damage. Tamase, you just saved Japan from being hit by a third G-Bomb." Is this for real? Or is Sensei saying this... No, she wouldn't joke around with this. But this means...
"I did WHAT?!" Tama's shock was not unexpected.
"Those damn Americans!" Meiya's scream filled the rooftop, as the rest had disgusted scowls in their faces. Of course, that's what they would think. A plan to either take down Alt. IV or worsen the relations of the Empire with America. Who set this up?
"We're back to DEFCON 4. All units, stand by until further orders are given."
Sigh... We avoided this incident, but this will cause a lot more problems going forward. One thing is for sure, whoever set this up wanted the whole base gone, including the lower floors. This is a declaration of war.
(Same Day. 6:43 PM.)
"This inspection was much more lively than I expected thanks to all of you. As a father, I have not enough words to thank you. Tama, you must cherish this friends you've made, no matter what may come."
"Yes, I will."
"And I hope you don't give Squad Leader Sakaki more trouble from now on."
"Eh?!" The rest look surprised. Of course he knew.
"And also... I hope you can find here a path you can walk confidently. Cadet Mitsurugi, please look after her. I'm sorry to impose this on you like this, despite my standing." Huh? What's this about? The rest look surprised too, except Meiya.
"It is no trouble. She is a valuable friend, of course I'll look after her." Tama's Dad smiles from ear to ear.
"I see. Tama, take care. And all of you too, good luck in your training."
"Salute!" We all salute him as he boards his ride and it takes off.
It must be hard, to just say goodbye like this. But in a way, that is also a blessing. Because someday there will be no more goodbyes to say. Just like how my Tama is gone forever, someday even this fragile gaze of understanding between them will crumble. To stall that moment for as long as I can, and to do the same for the rest of the squad... That is why I'm here. Thanks for reminding me of that, Tama.
"Shirogane-kun, what's wrong?"
"Huh?"
"You look so serious, are you alright?" Chizuru looked at me worriedly. I suppose that I was being too quiet.
"I mean... I was just thinking about how nice it is that they can still say their goodbyes, even if they can just salute each other."
"...I see." Chizuru, who lost her mother, must know what I'm talking about here.
"Miki-san, you were amazing! What you took down was even smaller than that!" Mikoto hugged Tama tightly. A lil' bit too... Hey stop! You're choking her!
"Mikoto, for the love of God, control yourself!"
"Well, sorry! I can't be as calm as you! She literally saved Japan from being hit by a G-Bomb!" She waves her arms around as I pull her away from Tama.
"A G-Bomb... Awhawhawha..." Tama starts swaying left and right with swirly eyes.
"Great, now she's nervous again."
"Tamase, you performed admirably. You truly are the Far East's best sniper!" Meiya smiles at her, rubbing her back trying to calm her down.
"Mitsurugi, that's wrong." For Kei to contradict Meiya...
"Hm? How is it wrong?"
"She's our sniper. That's what counts. Good job, Tamase." She again starts petting Tama's head.
"Haauuu... You're gonna make me cry again."
"Tamase, you saved all of us. And that's without taking into account the matter of the G-Bomb. Be more proud of yourself!" Chizuru patted her shoulders making her finally smile again.
"T-Thank you. I was actually... really nervous. I could do it... because you were all there, believing in me, giving me courage. I won't hold you back anymore, I'll do my best from now on. So..."
"Tamase, you're always doing your best. Don't cry and look up proudly! You've proved your worth today." The Instructor smiles at her, and after seeing that Tama regained her composure, she turned around and returned to the base, not without giving us a warning. "I think you probably know, but keep the matter of the G-Bomb a secret. You only know that because we connected you to the line. No words, to anyone." Meiya seemed upset but also nodded at her words.
After she leaves Mikoto starts hugging Tama again.
"Miki-san, you definitely were awesome today! We're gonna have to improve to catch up to you!"
"N-No, that's not true!" Tama was again blushing as Mikoto laughed.
"Yoroi is right. We all have to make our best efforts in the mock battles that will come. We can't hold back Tamase after all." Chizuru winks at her, making Tama look downwards as a blush made it's way to her face.
"Thank you everybody. Really." She looks at us with shining eyes. Her complexion is the complete opposite of the one she had when she shouted at me, now looking truly happy.
"No. Thank you for protecting us, Tama." She again smiles as she gives a little jump.
"But really, your dad is as cheerful as you!" Mikoto comments as we return into the base.
"Yeah, Papa is always trying to smile through all the hard stuff."
"I didn't knew he was someone so important. Forgive all those times I talked down to you, Tamase." Chizuru gives her a small bow, making Tama nervous again. Talking about her Dad...
"By the way, why did he ask you to look out for her, Meiya?" She opens her eyes wide, and looks away in a hurry.
"Eh? I'm... I think I shouldn't say." She caressed her ponytail as she looked away.
"It's alright, Mitsurugi-san. I'll tell them myself." Tama stops in her tracks and steps towards the rest of us. She closes her eyes and takes a deep breath, then she timidly looks up at us. "I am... well... The thing is... My family... is part of the Tozama. We are... or rather were, direct servants of the Shogun, when she still was only the head of the Koubuin House."
