Chapter 58: Snowball
December 15th, 04:16 PM.
(B15F. Sim Room.)
[Takeru]
"Hoho, happy feet!" I flick the joystick and my Kaizer tumbles down Akane's Frei, just like how I tackled Hayase.
"Dammit! You're not going to-"
"Oh yes, I am!" I spray onto her the electric gun, stunning her mid-attack. "Time to end this! Go, Kaizer!" I bring out my PB Longsword and strike at her core, shaving 37% off her shields.
[SHIELDS DEPLETED-UNIT KILLED]
[PLAYER 1 WINS]
The winning fanfare plays as the Kaizer's victory pose appears on screen.
"And that's another win for Shirogane." The Major said, from behind a small desk. "Alright, let's see who's next… Ayamine, Kazama! You're up next in Valgern-On!"
"Ahh, that was fun. GG, Suzumiya."
"Gee… Gee? What does that mean? Are you making fun of me?" She squinted her eyes, lowering her eyebrows as she put her hands on her sides.
"It means Good Game, it's a saying."
"Ugh, English… I had forgotten you came from America."
"Hey, come on. It's a friendly phrase, I wasn't being sarcastic." She turns around and goes her way. Sigh… I was having so much fun I forgot about how people hate English here.
Well, luckily everything is going fine for now. Everybody seems to like the sims, and it's good to see all of our work wasn't in vain. As I moved away from the sofas, the other two came to take our spots.
"Good luck Ayamine, Kazama seems to be really good at long range." I saw one of her matches before, against Meiya. It reminded me of how I got totally dominated by that Frei when I still hadn't recalled everything. Kazama might be polite and proper, but she's a beast with a joystick in her hands.
"…Sure." Kei sits down, looking straight at the TV. She must be really motivated.
"My, for the maker to compliment me so, I now have to do my utmost effort to deserve that praise." Kazama smiles as she combs her hair backwards.
"Haha, don't go too hard on Kei or she'll end up putting you in her sights."
"Thanks for the warning, Shirogane. Well then Ayamine, shall we?"
Kei nods and they reset the game and get to the prep screen. Thankfully, Sensei and Kasumi could mod the game to edit the Takemikazuchi. Now it's called the Raioh, and it has three horns instead of one and we also changed the shapes of it's sensors. So, now nobody can complain about where we got the data for a highly classified TSF from the Guard.
And as tempting as watching this match is, I have something to address. I move my neck in circles to vanish the stiffness in me, then I tense my back to do the same. I approach the orange of the squad, to her narrowing eyes.
"Yo, how have your trainings been so far?" I say as I approach the group that was with Akane.
"So far so good. The sims have been improved since that time we used them." Chizuru says, tapping her glasses. "I am still flabbergasted at the WMTS' performance. But I think I will be practicing more with Valgern-On, since I can test moves without harming my craft."
"Yeah, even the sims have some limitations in the missions we have." Kashiwagi says with a smile. "I don't know why nobody tried to make more simulations with varied maps and terrains like those in Valgern-On. I sure do appreciate the little tips of advice of yours, Shirogane. Cancels make a whole world of difference."
"It's no big deal, I know the manual doesn't have everything."
"About that, I wanted to make some suggestions." Akane said, smiling cheekily. "You see, if there's a tutorial about the basic moves, why isn't there a tutorial for the more advanced and complex maneuvers? I managed to do some sharp turns and dives in between some narrow spaces that I thought were impossible, so I think an in-depth list of examples of movements that showcases the XM3's potential would be a good addition to the program or to our sims."
"That… is actually a good idea." Why didn't I think about it? Well, my data is already in the XM3, but if people just don't think on using it, it doesn't matter.
The XM3 isn't auto-pilot and it won't make anyone fly like me in just a few minutes, all of the individual repositioning and turns I do won't appear if people don't think on doing that. And even if my data for the most common moves is already there, the combinations won't activate if they can't use the thought control to tell the system to use it. And as they said already, the manual doesn't have everything detailed, so they would have to access the command list from the system to see all available maneuvering data… And I know that most pilots won't even bother doing that.
"Yeah, that is actually a good idea. Using tutorials would be easier than having to manually open the command list, and they could be accessed as footage from outside a cockpit too. Thanks for the suggestion, Suzumiya."
"Huh, so my idea was something you didn't think of? What a blunder on your part."
"Akane let's all get along, please?" Tsukiji said, tapping her fingers together.
"I'm not perfect, everybody makes misses. So, thanks for speaking up." I smile at her, Akane twists her lips as she sends her hands into her pockets.
"It was nothing. …I thought you would be against it for a moment."
"Do I look like such a jerk?"
"Well, you are quite rude Shirogane-kun." Chizuru said as she made circles in the air. "And you're always bossing us around whenever we try to do things our way in Valgern-On or the mock battles."
"Hey, I'm just giving you advice so that you don't waste time on simple stuff."
"Haha, but you are too intense sometimes." Kashiwagi crossed her arms, winking at Tsukiji. "Poor Tsukiji was really scared when you kept telling her to do her cancels right."
"Yes, that was really mean. It's annoying that you're so insistent on us practicing your way. You should have kept quiet and let us try our hand at it without your nagging." Tsukiji said, only to recoil like a ball off a wall, waving her hands in the air. "Sorry, I didn't mean to say you're annoying, just that you were being too stubborn then. It's not like I dislike your advice, but, well…" Her gaze sank in the arctic, her hands loosened up like a puppet with it's strings cut.
"I get it, I didn't take offense. It's cool, I'll try to not be so intense." She really can't speak her mind without getting nervous, just like in my world. I should have realized that I was being a bother, trying to speed things up will only make stuff go wrong. I should have known better, even if they still move like noobs from time to time.
"Sakaki, Kashiwagi. It's your turn next on PoyoPoyo!" Tama called for the pair, who nodded and excused themselves.
"I still haven't got to practice with that. It was really fun too." Tsukiji smiles, bringing her hands together.
"Oh yeah, you liked PoyoPoyo. Have you managed to use the black slimes well?"
"Don't tell me about them!" Akane says, throwing a squinting gaze at Tsukiji. "Tae is always making them appear. And so fast too!"
"But they're really cute. They have their eyes making this goofy expression, and they make a funny sound when you clear them off the board."
"Yeah, that sound is hilarious." It's as if you popped a balloon full of water, but with a distortion sound like those that appear when a cartoon character gets dizzy. Well, PoyoPoyo as a whole is hilarious.
"How did you even come up with that idea?" Akane looks at me, giving me the stink eye.
"It's as if it was raining rocks, right? Or when it snows a lot and you can't get out of your house."
"Oh, I can see what you mean." Tsukiji nods in agreement. "It used to snow really hard a few years ago. I wonder when we'll get snow this year… It would be troublesome if our doors get stuck." Right, people here don't see the snow as something good.
I had to talk the girls into the whole sitting by a fire while it snows outside view during my first loop, so I think it will be the same here. But, considering the stronger Anti-American sentiment here, I maybe should shut up about Christmas and celebrations.
Speaking of, I wonder if the package I ordered arrived already? It would suck if it didn't get here in time.
"Yeah, I see how snow can make you feel like those slimes." Akane nodded, arms folded. "Well, let's go see what the others are up to."
"Say Suzumiya, could we have a little chat?" She looks my away, narrowing her eyes. She then brings a hand to her chin, staring at me silently for a second.
"…Tae, you can go watch the rest. I'll catch up in a while."
"You're not going to fight, right?"
"Of course not, Tsukiji. Don't worry."
"Um! Shirogane, I want you to know that… that…" Tsukiji made small fists and shook them up and down as she got closer, a storm of clashing shapes and forms in her eyes. I only saw this happen once or twice at the distance back in school, but here it comes. Tsukiji's avalanche of sincerity. "Akane isn't a bad person. She's actually really kind, and nice, and supportive. And she challenges you because you're a good rival for her, so please don't be mad at her. Let's all get along, please? I know I'm no one to tell you what to do, but you must not fight with her anymore! We're all comrades, right? We're on the same team, right?" Her stride subsided, looking up at me like a puppy, she got her hands together as if praying as she waited for my answer.
"Tae, you don't have to be like this. He's-"
"No, Akane. We're all comrades, right? And he's helping us out, right? Please don't fight anymore."
"I wasn't trying to… I really wasn't planning on picking a fight. Only if he provoked me I would-"
"Okay, I am not looking for a fight and I do want us to get along. So, everything's fine Tsukiji."
"Really? Oh, sorry. I just went and scolded you for nothing…" Her mood turned into a tree after August. Leaves and life gone, left without any other choice but to brace for the coming winter.
"Don't get so down, I'm not mad." Akane gave me a side glance, leaning against the wall.
"Well… Sorry for raising my voice. Um… I'll be over there. P-Please don't get angry or anything, yes?" I gave her a nod and she went her way with the slowness of a turtle, sending a few gazes at Akane.
Only the rumbling of the others' noise surrounded us for a moment.
"So, what do you want?"
"Ouch, so much for getting along." I shrug, also leaning on the wall.
"I'm not going to fight in front of Tae, she already has too much on her mind. I don't want to bother her. So, again, what do you want?" All the while, she was looking forward towards the group, not even hinting at her reluctance to be around me.
"Say Suzumiya, why do you act like this? I can understand the rivalry bit, but sometimes it feels like too much."
"Well, it's just that. I want to be better and you really are messing up my progression chart here."
"Huh? How am I doing that, exactly?"
"For starters, how you saved Tae."
"Hey, I was-"
"I know, and I am thankful." She looked at me, giving me a small smile. "I didn't get to properly say it, so here goes. Thank you, Shirogane. If you hadn't done that mad maneuver and shooting, Tae would be dead now." What once was a fire revealed itself to be a chimney's fire in a hut. So she wasn't that angry or anything… "But, you see, I… I can't help but to compare myself with you. It was the same with Chizuru when we were Cadets. I am not trying to pick a fight with you, even if sometimes it feels like you are." A slight edge crept from her words, a hostility I haven't seen since the CCSE present in her her gaze, in how she chose to look towards me.
"I am not. Why do you think that?"
"You sometimes use those weird words, and it feels as if you're mocking me."
"For real?"
"See?" She pursed her lips, her brows arching into a frown with the speed of that bus you have to take, but that always manages to pass when you're almost to the stop. "Your 'dudes' and other words feel as if… I don't know, it just weirds me out to hear you use those words for some reason." She squints her eyes softly, as if lost in thought.
"Sorry, that's just the slang I used before."
"And there's that too."
"That?"
"You come from America, don't you?" A tincture of toxic was brewing in her mouth, lashing out in her words.
"Hey, I regained my Japanese citizenship here. I'm not an American and I was trained by the UN."
"I know that. The others told me about it. I don't really think you're like the Americans, but… some stuff you do rubs me the wrong way. I may be letting my prejudices show when speaking with you sometimes." She breaks eye contact, looking downwards and downwards.
"Aside from my words, is there anything that I can do to make you less uncomfortable? As comrades, I would like to hone our teamwork and make the STF a well-knit unit."
"Huh… So that's what you think. Who told you that?"
"Who? Well… Someone I practiced with once."
I told her this after the last mission, passing as the Viking. That despite me not being there most of the time, I wanted to make the STF into a well built team. And I suggested her to tackle any issues she might have with her companions openly, like everybody told me to do. So, hopefully, this will make her more willing to make peace with me, whatever her issues towards me are.
"Sigh… And that too."
"Huh? Now what?"
"You spared against the Viking and almost scored a draw. How can I say that I'm doing well when you're around?" Her shoulder compacted as if she was in a train full of people. "You have no idea… how hard it is to face you, all you do." Brows narrowed, eyes squinted, they told me I was the stone in her shoe. Her fists shaking, tightening, she also slowly bit her lips. Akane seems to hate my guts, and I know what will happen if I let this sit.
"Hey… I don't remember being particularly hostile to you. What is-"
"I wanted to be you." The chimney in her eyes growing into a bonfire, the concoction of poison thickening in her voice. "I wanted to lead my team, to protect them, to be a distinguished member of our forces. And…" Snow slowly started dulling the embers in her as she shifted her arms, her back leaving the wall. "I couldn't save my squadmates, I would have been unable to protect Tae, I almost got killed by the Lasers back then. And despite all my efforts, I'm still not appointed as a Storm Vanguard." So she still is chasing after that position, huh. "And then you come around, make all these inventions, break all of the records you touch, lead your squad to victory without letting anyone die, and get appointed as a Storm Vanguard despite your lack of experience." She plucks her lips, folding her arms. "And it's not like I can compare, your moves are so different, your times are so hard to match in the sims…" She looks away, clicking her lips. "Can you blame for getting envious?"
"Huh… I don't really know what to say. I was just doing my best."
"And that's why." She faced me again, now more relaxed than before, the frown gone from her face. "What am I doing wrong? What's the difference between us? At first, I kind of hated you. I thought you were just a proud American, but then the others told me of how you were, and I can see you mean well despite being so annoying." Hey, I'm just helping out. It's not my fault you guys can't do your cancels to save your lives. "So… I don't even know what to think about you."
"Look, I know I might be too rude, but I really don't want trouble and I have nothing against you. Can we make peace? I can lend you a hand if you want, my control logs are available for all to see. You can send me a mail if you have a question too."
"Sigh… That's… That's not the problem." She closed her eyes, leaning against the wall again.
"Then, I suppose the problem is a personal matter, and not something I did to you to upset you?"
"Yeah… That's right." She took a moment of pause, sighing. "I want my feats to be mine. I know, I can't do everything alone. But I want to inspire valor in my squadmates. That's why I won't follow you around, I want to be better than you." She looked at me, firm as a mountain. "I want to see with my own eyes whether you fight like an American or not when we get to spar in a mock battle. I do apologize if my behavior wasn't… what you'd expect of a comrade." She gave me a small, fleeting bow. "But I will continue to challenge you, and I'll triumph over you one day with my own style."
"Heh, got it. If you want a challenge, I'll be happy to oblige. I kind of did a promise with Hayase to fight, so you'll have to get in line though." I say, scratching my head.
"Huh? Oh, yeah. She really is something else. I bet even you won't be able to keep up." She says, a slight proud pulse in her words.
"I know, I've been told she's one of the best."
"So… Nothing's wrong between us?"
"Nope. Let's try to get along, Suzumiya." I make a fist and leave it hanging, after a second of doubt she bumped her own fist with a small, but confident smile. "If I may, can I ask you why you want to be a Vanguard so badly? Is it because of the prestige and all that?" Maybe she's different here now.
"No, of course not. I just… want to do my share."
"Can't you do that from every position?"
"Well, yeah…" Her hands played in her pockets as her gaze ran away from mine. "Say Shirogane, I heard… you lost important people before coming here." My heart froze for a sec, remembering what came before. Heh, I don't think I'll ever get over this completely. "Can I ask what did you do… to move forward?"
"Aside from crying like a bitch, I had many people help me out, giving me advice and kicks in the butt when I needed it." I look at the rest, at the Captain, at Hayase, at the Major. "I don't think I'll ever forget the pain. I just… learned to counter my fears with my passion eventually. I said this to Mikoto a while ago, you gotta deal with it head on, without looking away. I focused on what I could do and how I could help, to honor the lives of those who helped me when I needed it the most."
"…I see. Was it… difficult? Were you forced to take hypnotherapy?"
"At one point, yeah." Even if the Captain said it was just a placebo, I think not all of that was true. It did make my dizzy for a sec there. "Now, I just don't let the fear paralyze me. Well, actually, it's like there's something I fear even more than what's before me and that makes me move." Losing my loved ones is far, far worse than dying for me.
"…Sigh. So it's the same for you." She also was looking at the rest, at her sister in particular.
"Did… you lose part of your family?"
"…Yes." She puts her hands behind her back, her gaze locked onto Haruka as she cheered on Tama, who was sparring against Meiya. "Both of my parents didn't make it out from Hiiragi. We didn't have enough transports, so they prioritized the children. I'll never forget the faces they had the last time I saw them as I was forced to board that trailer." Her tone descended several steps, almost feeling as if she herself just fell from some stairs. "After that, well… Do you know?" She then looks at me, narrowing her eyes.
"About your sister's legs? Yeah, I was briefed on it to not end up being rude or making jokes about it." I did get briefed by the Major about it, so it's not a full lie. "I don't know everything, I just know she lost her legs during a CCSE."
"Yes, that's what happened. I still remember how I felt back then, waiting on the hospital until the operation was done." And again, her tone jumped off a building. But then, she lifted her gaze once more. "Well, you see… My sister had a boyfriend. He was like a brother to me, it was really fun to tease him." Flowers bloomed shortly in her face. "He was there for us, when things looked truly hopeless. But then… he also died."
"The fall of Yokohama was really severe from what I read."
"No, that's…" Akane breathed deeply through her nose, taking a second to sort out her thoughts. "He died when the Americans dropped the G-Bombs. He wouldn't have had to die that day if not for that." The toxins returned to her tongue, firing a barrage of undiluted hatred. "I now know the UN couldn't really stop that, and that it was the Americans acting on their own. But I can't help but to… well, hate them. I do end up being rude to the foreigners here on occasion, despite knowing better."
"So he was a pilot, huh. Well, can't blame you. The G-Bombs must... have ruined your heart then." Just like me after Iceberg. Akane nods, venom clear in her frown.
"Sis was destroyed back then, so I… I wanted to ease her pain, so I voluntarily enlisted in the UN when she told me Narumi-san was UN too. I want to fight for her and create a turning point in this war, and make sure all we've lost wasn't in vain. So… Shirogane…" She returned my gaze again, hints of a frown being restrained for now. "Can I trust you're not like them? You won't back-stab us, right?"
"Do you think Sensei would have let me be here if I was that dangerous?"
"I didn't mean it like that. What I'm saying is… if something like what happened with Tae happens again, will you-"
"We will prevent it. Be sure of it." She remained tilted, staring at me. "I am sure you must have heard of how reckless I am in the field. I won't tell you to not be so suspicious of foreigners, I'm sure you must have heard that a lot while you were here. But I can relate to what you went through, so I can assure you I won't abandon anyone if I see I can help." And it's good to see you're still the same as in last loop, save for maybe a stronger hatred for America.
Though, there's something I don't understand. Why Haruka has a boyfriend here? Weren't those two chasing after the same guy? Why did Haruka get him in this world?
"I see. Sorry, for doubting you like that."
"It's okay. I would also hold a huge grudge towards Americans if someone I liked died in Lucifer. He must have been a good guy."
"Yeah, Narumi-san was a really warm person. He was also part of this STF back then. From what little the Captain told me Shura's Dance affected him greatly, and then the Hive was made here... That's why he didn't retreat when the G-Bombs dropped, he was sick of seeing his hometown get ravaged. To have it all end in the G-Bomb's explosions…"
"Shura's... Dance?"
Static slowly made it's way to my ears. Alongside sounds of waves on the shore.
"Oh, you don't remember that, right? It was a mission that allowed us civvies to escape from Yokohama. I don't know the details, but a lot of nasty rumors filled the media back then. Some went as far as saying some soldiers killed civilians to speed up the evacuations." Akane said, the poison overflowing in her words.
The images flash in my mind, the screams bloom on my ears. I feel my knees buckle again as the hammer hits the back of my head repeatedly, as my heartbeat imitates a rocket.
"Shirogane?"
Guh... No, get it together... Yet, the sounds and images twist my vision again.
"I do not wish to burden you any longer. Please, do not feel guilty. Kill me."
No! Stop... Why is this surfacing now?! Again, the cold hands reach my chest, piercing my flesh and clumsily grabbing onto my heart.
"Takeru-san! You have to calm down!" Kasumi's voice reached me, muddled by the screams.
As if to counter them, bright images of my life in my world flooded my mind.
"Hey Shirogane, what's wrong?" I felt Akane's voice and a pat on my shoulder.
...Two.
Two small, frail weights. I feel them in my hands.
Why does this feel so... familiar?
Such is the nature of the military.
It's the rules we live by.
Whatever happens... It is what it is.
It's pointless… In the end, nothing will change.
"Takeru-san!" A strong pull on my arm, a shower of feathers on my head. The calming sensation breaks the fog as if it were thin ice, Kasumi was by my side as my eyes refocused.
The spiraling, constricting images flow in again. This time, though, my head stopped pulsing, my heart slowed down. I'm back on the sim room, with Akane and Kasumi gazing at me.
"Shirogane, are you okay? What happened to you?"
"...Sorry, I... think I just had a flashback." I inhale slowly through my nose. I can't break down here, deep breaths, in and out. I didn't fall or anything.
I blink a few times and look around. Seems that no one else noticed... No, the pickles are looking in our direction, coming towards me. Sigh... The fuck was that just now?
"Should we tell the Major?" Akane suggested, gazing towards the rest.
"No, it's fine. I just... need some silence right now." I grimace, folding my arms to hide my tightening hands.
"Are you sure?"
"Yeah... Sigh, I'm fine already."
"Takeru-san, you should leave and-"
I shake my head, the cold hands easing their grasp on me.
We can't make a scene. Don't know why it happened, but it's gone now. Shura's Dance... Seems like there still are some secrets between us, Sensei.
"Phew... Really, I'm good. It was just a sudden thing. I'll go to the med bay after we're dismissed." I force a smile and Akane nods. Kasumi doesn't seem convinced at all.
"If you say so... Don't push yourself, though. I also... have been suffering from those lately." Akane winces as if a thousand blades were suddenly cutting through her stomach, but with almost no hurry in finishing the matter.
"Thanks, really."
"Takeru-san, let's sit down." Kasumi pulls me gently to a pair of seats as Akane goes to the rest.
Kasumi lays her head on my arm, and again, images of my peaceful life come back.
Thanks a lot, Kasumi. For coming so fast.
"What happened?"
Akane mentioned a mission, and that triggered something in his memories. How do I look?
"Shaken, but you're calm now. I feared you were going to faint."
Did I almost fall?
"Yes. The rest are busy with the trainings, so nobody noticed anything. Are you sure you don't want to go to the medical bay right now?" She said as she took a good look at me, clutching my hand tightly as if it were a pulling rope.
Sigh… It's fine. I think I'm good now.
"I still think you should-"
"Hey Takeru, what's up? You don't look so good." Shion had come to our side, a hand in her chin as she looked at me.
"I'm fine, we're just chilling."
"Oh, I see. Let's go see some of the trainings, it's a waste if you're just sitting."
"Takeru-san is resting." Kasumi said, moving her bunny ears.
"I wasn't talking to you." Shion shoot a glare at her, her eyes sharp and carnivorous.
"Hey, don't be like that. We're just resting for a while." I said, waving a hand.
"Really? Then, why were you holding your head just a second ago?" Her tone took a dive in the Arctic, the hawk in her resurfaced.
"…My head just hurt a bit, that's why I'm just sitting. Nothing's wrong."
"Then, let's go with the rest."
"Takeru-san said he's resting. Please leave."
Kasumi, stop it.
"No, I don't like her way of pushing you around."
"I am talking with Takeru." Shion said, playing with her hair as she threw a side glance at Kasumi. "So Takeru, let's-"
"Leave us alone please." Kasumi said, in her own firm way.
"Shut up. Takeru, let's go to-"
"Inconsiderate."
Kasumi, stop it! Why are you picking a fight with her?!
"She wants to ask about what you just went through. I don't want you to hurt again. She is being inconsiderate by not listening to you. I don't like her, people like her always do what they want without thinking about others, just like Sumika-san said."
Wait, Sumika?
As I looked at Shion, I saw that her lips where quivering. She took one step back looking at me, then she shot a glare at Kasumi. It feels as if she's about to let her menacing side out.
"Come on, you two. Calm down. We're all on the same team here, right?" I place a hand before Kasumi as I stand up. "Sorry Shion, can you just drop it?"
"Huh?! Why? Why are you taking her side?" It feels as if I had thrown a dart at her heart right now.
"I'm not. I just want to chill here."
"But why with her? You can rest with us as we see the rest train, right?" She rose a finger and smiled at me, tilting her head to a side.
"Inconsiderate, and forceful too." Kasumi, why?! She squints her eyes at Shion, whose fists were now shaking visibly.
"What was that? You wanna say something else?"
"Screaming won't make you right." She replied, moving her bunny ears. Shion opened her eyes wide, lost in a pond of fire.
"Alright, you two. That's enough." I place myself between them.
"Whatever is the matter, Shirogane?" Mion, who seemed to be close by, approached us. Her eyes also where those of a hawk.
"Nothing, I'm just resting here."
"Then, I suppose we could sit here too?" Mion suggested, pointing to the other chairs.
"I guess? I mean…"
"Shirogane!" The Major called for me at the worst moment. "You're up against Mitsurugi in CryRing."
Shit… If I leave now…
"Well, I'm being called. Kasumi, wanna go watch?"
"Yes." She stood up quickly, coming to my side.
"Actually, I wanted to discuss something with Yashiro here." Mion said, inexpressive and cold. Something in her smile reminded me of how the Royal Guard version of Tsukuyomi-san treated me on my first loops.
"Are you trying to pick a fight with Kasumi?"
"My, of course not. I do wonder why you came to that conclusion… Did anyone speak ill of us to you?" Mion narrowed her eyes at the bunny.
"You did try to harm me when we just met… Leave Kasumi alone. She's my friend."
"I cannot speak for Shion, but I have no hostile intentions towards Yashiro." Mion said, playing with her hair.
"She's lying. Even without reading her mind I can tell."
Yeah, me too. Let's just go.
"I see. You wanna stay Kasumi?"
"No, let's go."
We try to move but Mion now stand in my way.
"Please, we merely wish to share some words with her. There is no way we would do anything inappropriate given our position here, much less to the assistant of the Vice Commander. The Major would be most upset at us should we act aggressively. You can trust in my words, we will do nothing to her."
"Acts are not the only thing that can hurt. Mion, I'll say this clearly… Kasumi is my friend. If you're hostile to her, I'll take it as an insult."
"…Why are you being this contrarian? I do not recall doing anything to upset you."
"Shion just tried to pick a fight with her."
"I wasn't doing that." Shion crossed her arms, eyes losing light and warmth by the second. "I was just inviting you to see the rest and she got in the way."
"She was telling you I was kinda tired. And you told her off way too harshly."
"Shirogane! Get here already!" Not now, Major.
"Well, it seems you are required elsewhere. Please, go on Shirogane." Mion said, smiling at me. "I wish to share some words with Yashiro, nothing more."
"…Then, come do so by my side as I train."
"May I ask why you doubt me so much? I thought we were getting along." Mion then slowly looked at Kasumi, who hid behind my back under the pressure. "Maybe someone is truly speaking ill of us behind our backs?"
"If you're insinuating Kasumi did, you're way off the mark. I merely see the you of that rainy night right now. If you touch Kasumi, you touch me. Why are you looking at her like that? I mean, how could you ever be upset at her?"
"She was rude to me, really rude." Shion commented.
"You also were rude to her."
"Is she a fellow to you, Takeru?" Shion asked, a viper lashing out within her words.
"She's my friend. Kasumi has always been there for me when stuff got tough here."
"Oh, I see. But that doesn't excuse her behavior towards me, she made a miss first."
"Shion, it's not about first or second. Kasumi was there for me after I fainted on that mock battle, so she gets worried about my health a lot. That's all, right Kasumi?"
"…Yes." She said, peeking from behind me. "I am just looking after him."
"Well, you don't have to." Shion again shot a glare at her. "We can also look after him."
"Thanks for worrying, but drop that glare."
They both hold my gaze for a moment, eyes narrowed.
"Shirogane, is she someone dear to you?" Mion asked.
"Of course. She's a really good friend. I mean, she puts up with my bullshit everyday with a smile on her face despite all she has to do for Sensei. That's how good she is. Look at her! How could you be mean to this little angel?"
"Takeru-san, it's embarrassing."
It's also true. You're always lending me your ear despite how busy you are, you're the sweetest sweetheart on the base. How can they not see it?!
"…Please stop."
Not until they get it.
"I see, so that's how you see her…" Mion smiled, but in a crooked way. Like my Mom whenever she came up with a punishment after I failed many tests in a row. "However, I assure you I hold no ill will towards her. I just wish to share a couple of words with Yashiro. Please, the Major is here. Do you seriously think-"
"Then, come and talk where I can hear you."
"It is a personal matter of sorts, I would welcome some privacy."
"…Kasumi, let's go." I reached out to her and holding her hand I took her with me past the pickles. I know the Major won't let Kasumi out of her sights, but I can't let them fight. Our squad would crumble if Kasumi reacted badly towards them and they dared to show their fangs.
"It is saddening to see how little you seem to think of me…" Mion's hand that was on her hair delayed it's stroke, her eyes slowly descending onto the figure behind me as we passed her side.
"What's sad is that you showed your fangs again here, Mion. I expected more of you two."
[Mion]
Takeru goes towards the Major after giving us one last look.
To think they'll make him doubt us so strongly… As soon as I noticed he seemed dizzy, this Russian witch went to his side wasting not a second. So she's been ordered to monitor him… Maybe twisting his memories to that fox's convenience?
"So Shion…"
"…What?"
"Do you think she's affecting him?"
"Yeah, I do. Remember the headband he had? Wasn't it really similar to that thing she has on her head?"
"Yes, it was. Talking with her won't be easy… But perhaps that won't be necessary."
For a moment, I could see him again…
"Shion, did you notice it?"
"Yeah…" Her gaze falls to the floor. She then replies in a whisper as we sit down. "To think our Leader would come back defending a foreigner…"
"It is almost a mockery. He does seem to be really fond of her, and her appearance does align with what Takeru said. However… She's no angel, she's a witch and she may have him under her spell."
"We can't do anything about her, though." Shion said, biting her lips. We both looked at the slim girl that was peeking at Takeru's training from behind the sofa.
If she truly is caring for him, I have no objections. However, how did she notice Takeru was in pain when she was looking in the opposite direction? When she was near the noise of the others? Only us three, the Captain and the Major noticed Takeru's slight headache. But unlike the rest, she wasn't looking at him and yet she was the first to react.
Almost as if she could really sense his mind in pain… Almost as if she wanted to block his memories… And she wanted Shion to go away, without hiding how upset she was.
The afternoon training ended with Takeru directing not another word at us and not leaving Yashiro's side by more than a second.
"Tsukuyomis, may I have a word with you?" The Major came up to us after we were all dismissed and started to leave the room to go get changed for the run in the sim pods.
"What is the matter, Major?"
"Please stay here, we need to talk."
I share a glance with Shion, who was narrowing her eyes, wrinkles in her nose.
Once the rest had left, the Major signaled to a pair of chairs. In front of us, she and the Captain sat down. A small desk in the middle, us four alone looked at the pair in front of us in silence for a moment.
"Now then, what was that little argument with Shirogane and Yashiro about?" Cpt. Isumi asks, her tone the opposite of her hair color.
"We were merely trying to have a conversation with Yashiro, but, for some unfortunate reason, Shirogane thought we were trying to be hostile with her."
"You see, Yashiro seemed troubled by your presence." The Major said, setting her hands on the table. "Shirogane also confronted you, something he rarely does. He didn't do that when his squadmates discriminated him when he had arrived… What did you say to make him do that?" Oh, so now they're saying Takeru doesn't want us around. Let me see, now they'll suggest cutting us off the squadron and merely have us as overseers of the Second's prototypes.
"It is true Shirogane seemed to be upset, but it was nothing short of a misunderstanding."
"I am sure you also saw he seemed to be in pain." Cpt. Isumi said, crossing her arms, moving her chin upwards. "Why did you insist so much? Care to explain what you wished to discuss with Yashiro?"
"Excuse me, Captain." Shion said, giving me a glance. "I was merely worried about Takeru, and when Yashiro tried to make me leave, I reacted… in a unproper way. However, I suppose Mion only wished to sort some doubts we had, for example, why did Yashiro pilot with Takeru yesterday? We were not notified the Shin Kagerou had a two-seater variant."
"That is true." I say, lowering my brows. "Why were we, the liaisons of the Royal Guard, not notified of this matter? Which is why I wished to speak with Yashiro, and to ask some personal matters that make me curious about her."
"Well, I suppose that fact of the cockpit was nothing but an oversight." The Major said, crossing her arms, and giving us another of those stern, bull-like gazes. "However, you should have been briefed on Yashiro's importance. Hostility towards her shall not be tolerated."
"As I said, we were not hostile to her. Shion merely lost her temper, which she should apologize for, but we bear no ill intentions. Do you think us foolish enough to threaten the XO's assistant in the middle of a training session? I find the claim insulting, almost mocking. Do not forget that we are Royal Guards despite the uniform we wear now."
"You are UN now, regardless of your status as liaisons." Cpt. Isumi said, leaning forward and narrowing her eyes. "While I apologize if it seemed as if we were insulting you, considering your actions during the CCSE and the mock battle, we thought it wise to remind you that you cannot act to your leisure here. Do not repeat such behavior while you're here. 2nd Lt. Shirogane did the right thing by ending the argument then, so refrain from approaching others in such a way. There is no need to be so formal and cold to your squadmates here. If you had been more warm, I am sure Shirogane and Yashiro wouldn't have gotten so defensive towards you."
She doesn't seem as hostile as Major Jinguuji. Takeru did say he remembered the CCSE when he saw me.
"Duly noted. I apologize for this misunderstanding. It will not repeat itself." Shion says, and we then give them a small bow.
"That being said, I am sure you also noticed it." I move my hair out of my face, then I gaze at them for a moment. Unmovable mountains, not a hint of melting snow on their peaks. "Shirogane seemed to be in pain for a moment, and despite not being looking at him, Yashiro was the first to react. Not only we're worried Shirogane might actually be suffering from some lasting injuries from our battle, but it is also very curious how Yashiro was so rejecting of us. If our attitudes were rude, then hers also was. Major, Captain, if you wished to discuss this little matter, why did you not also call for Yashiro and Shirogane?"
"Because I already know them well." Major Jinguuji replies almost instantly. "My main concern is learning more of you and how to deal with any problems that might arise between you and the squad."
"Then, why not call for them to speak with us?" Shion also retorted quickly. "We could already be resolving this discussion if they were here."
"That is not the matter at hand, and you know it." The Major leaned back, her words harsh and sharp as a knife. "I called you here not to talk of what you wanted to talk with them, that is a private matter that you can finish on your own time. What I called you here for is to clarify how you should approach the issue. You can approach Shirogane however you wish, but Yashiro is a different matter entirely. I will not tolerate another show of hostility towards her, accidental or not."
"As an aside, you'd be well served in remembering that your position as liaisons also comes with responsibilities." Cpt. Isumi said. "You'd do well in approaching this matters maturely. However, I suggest you give Shirogane and Yashiro some space for a while."
Hehehe… I knew it. They want us away from Takeru. I felt the soft caress of a blade on the outer rim of my ear at their words, their so clearly defiant words. Such obvious opposition to our relation with him, the Major also went out of her way to have a talk with us and 'warn' us of his 'circumstances'. Such insolence, as if they knew who he is, what he went through… It's mortifying, but I must sheathe my blade. This is the only chance we'll get to be near him, if they forbid us from approaching him we'd be bound completely. It is a sad state of affairs, but we are flanked by the enemy here.
"I see. As a show of goodwill, that's what we'll do. However, I would like to remind you… We also are awaiting a show of goodwill from you, UN."
"You are also part of-"
"No, Major." Shion replied, I knew what she would say before she spoke up, so I nodded when she gazed at me. "Unlike you, we have not forgotten where we belong. We are Royal Guards first and foremost. And we will uphold our honor and values when we deem necessary, so long as it doesn't clash with the rules the UN has placed on our shoulders."
"I fail to see how this attitude can benefit you in any way…" Cpt. Isumi said, entwining her fingers and resting her hands atop the table.
"The same goes for you." I say, smiling at them. "I fail to see what good you'll reap from antagonizing us so strongly."
"We are merely warning you." Major Jinguuji said. "If you try to approach Yashiro in the same way as you did today again, the personnel from the base will stop you, and it is possible an argument might ensue. Simply give them a day to rest, Shirogane isn't the type to hold a grudge." That shows you don't even know him. Takeru doesn't forget so easily when someone wrongs him or his fellows.
"I see. Well then, forgive my assumptions then." Shion said, leaning back onto her chair.
"Is that all you wished to discuss, Major?"
"No, actually, there were other matters I wished to address. This time it's regarding this morning's test. Some of your maneuvers were very sharp, so I wished to discuss your opinion on the exercise as the liaisons of the project."
We then answered the Major's and Captain's questions earnestly.
After that, we went to get changed for the last part of our afternoon training. Takeru didn't speak with us at all during the duration of the sim run.
Once the trainings were finished, however, we went to look for someone. The only one who could aid us in our current predicament.
"So, what did you wish to discuss with me?" Meiya-sama said, folding her arms.
"It's about Shirogane. We were forbidden from approaching him for the time being, so we would like to ask you to monitor him closely for the following days, if you could." We bow to her.
"…Stop, I am a mere 2nd Lieutenant." She looks away, with the apprehension of a dulled blade clashing against a well-sharpened one. "So, why do you want me to monitor Takeru's condition?"
"Well, as it were… During the trainings of the afternoon, he displayed signals of distress. It was clear his head was hurting, yet he endured it until the sessions was over."
"Eh?! Is that true?"
"Yes, that is the case." Shion says. "I tried to approach him, but Yashiro was hostile towards me and was against me being near Takeru."
"I see… So Yashiro was also rude to you."
"Huh? Has Yashiro displayed hostility towards you, Meiya-sama?"
"Yes, in two or three occasions. I do not know why, but she does not like me much."
So the witch doesn't like Meiya-sama either, huh… How curious, isn't it.
"Have you ever fought with her, perchance?"
"Of course not!" She now stared at me with that same imposing, diamond solid gaze that Yuuhi-sama also makes. "She tends to be rude to me despite my best efforts to be polite. She insists I'm stubborn, that I should mind my own business."
"Regarding what?"
"Oh, about Takeru. I once wished to ask a favor out of him back in November, but she insisted I was being bothersome and stubborn. Turns out Takeru had promised to spend time with her back then, and they were together making the sims we used today for quite some time. When I tried to ask Takeru for a moment to consult things with him, Yashiro insisted I was being too forceful, and she ended up leaving with him. After that Sunday, I asked him if he was free a few times after our routines, but Yashiro once more came to look for him and he always went with her, despite apologizing in Yashiro's stead for her bluntness." Her gaze lowers, her hands retreat into her pockets.
"…Is this true?"
"Of course, are you doubting me?" Her solid tone and firm gaze sent a shiver down my spine.
"No, I would never. I was merely… How to say it? I am at a lack of words to describe this vile in my gut."
"I have a word for you, Mion." Shion said, grinning evilly. "This is a fucking joke."
"Shion, mind your language please. You are the liaisons of the Guard here." Meiya-sama folded her arms again and scowled at my cousin. However, I could do little but share her feelings despite the rudeness.
So the witch has been around him since the start, huh? And she has been against Meiya-sama being near Takeru, for some reason. Curious… Very curious indeed.
"Well, would you do us this favor, Meiya-sama?"
"Of course, leave it to me. I do wish to again spend some time with him, and there are many matters I wish to discuss with Takeru. I am also his fellow, so you can leave him in my hands. However, if I may, can I ask you a question?"
"Of course."
"Why are you so interested in Takeru? Why are you… well, so insistent on watching over him?"
"For the same reasons you have. We heard he is to be your partner, and so, we also must keep an eye on him. Of course, not a word of this to anyone else shall be spoken."
"Obviously. So, I suppose… She ordered you to watch over him?" We nod. "Then… What about his past? He told me he still didn't-"
"All in due time, Meiya-sama. We also were not told of it, to avoid any slips. We do know a bit more than you, but you should not worry about it. Just act as you were being, and please do tell us if Yashiro opposes your presence near Shirogane."
She didn't seem pleased. A slight sourness, like when I find out Shion ate all the remaining cake I buy, was palpable in her face. Hmm… I do wonder why she is so insistent on knowing. Could she also be infatuated with Takeru?
"I see… Well, you can trust in me. I will keep an eye out for him. I didn't notice anything today."
"I see. Now, how have your trainings been?"
Her shoulders drop, as if weights were placed on them. Her gaze becomes distorted, ripples forming in quick succession in the pond that is her gaze.
"…I am ashamed to admit I have not been able to aid my squad in besting the Valkyries yet. I have scored better numbers on my simulations, but our mock battles are another matter entirely."
"Well, starting out is always hard. Please do not be discouraged."
"I will not. I will cleave through this sooner rather than later." She replied fast, but with a hint of annoyance that did not have anything to do in her stride.
"Forgive us, we didn't mean any insult." Shion bows and I follow quickly. Meiya-sama's gaze submerges even more, clearly uncomfortable under our deference. "Well then, can I ask you if anything has been troubling Takeru as of late? Anything that you might know that could be bringing him trouble or pain?"
Her gaze avoided ours. Why? She is usually so forward, she shows very little care for what others might think of her, and she would never turn a blind eye to a pained fellow.
"Meiya-sama, if you know anything, please tell us. We have a certain power you do not in our current situation. We might be able to speak with the XO if the need arises."
"…Even so, I believe I shouldn't."
"He was truly pained today!" Shion said, taking a step forward. "And despite us offering him a hand, they forbade us from approaching him. Please Meiya-sama, if you know of something, anything, please tell us!"
"I also would like to ask you the same. Even if it's something he mentioned in passing, do not hold it in." We both bow and remain like so in silence, awaiting her words.
"…Rise, you… you shouldn't act like this." We do as told, and meet her gaze head on. The ripples vanishing, the traces of shadows gone, her usual resolute complexion shone bright. "What I am about to tell you is something Takeru himself asked me to keep a secret, and I expect you to also be bound by this. Promise you will not reveal this to anyone else unless necessary."
"I swear I won't."
"I, too, swear I will not." Upon hearing Shion's words, Meiya-sama nodded and folded her arms.
"Well… It seems Takeru has been tasked with helping someone who also went through a traumatic experience. I believe that might be taking it's toll on him."
"Someone? Is that someone Yashiro?" Does the witch suffer from PTSD? Is that why she's so fond of Takeru?
"No, though, Yashiro also aids this person. I only met her once, but her name is Sumika Kagami."
…Huh?
"Sumika… Kagami?"
"Yes. Takeru asked me to not mention her, to keep her circumstances a secret, so I will not say what he told me about her. If you wish to know, speak of it with him."
"Meiya-sama… Could you describe what this woman looks like?"
"Hm? Let's see… She was almost as tall as him, she had long, vibrant red hair and a yellow ribbon. She seemed to be very emotionally unstable, however."
I share a gaze with Shion, who was clawing at her palms. So, a Kagami is near Takeru. Haruna-san had no kids and we knew no other Kagamis growing up… I refuse to believe this is merely a coincidence.
"I see. Thanks, Meiya-sama. Please, go to the PX. We shouldn't be seen together, after all. And do not worry, we will remain on our best behavior."
"…I see. I suppose I do not need to remind you of your duty. But… You seemed to react rather negatively to her name, did you knew Kagami before?"
"…No, I was merely surprised Shirogane was asked to aid a female with whatever it is. Now then, we should be going." I bow to her and Shion follows suit, and before she could ask again we take our leave.
After taking some distance and taking a turn, I look at Shion who was bearing a more severe expression, her usual evil smile widening.
"So… A Kagami, huh?" She said, folding her arms. "Maybe he's being manipulated?"
"I suppose we should check the databases. Maybe Haruna-san had a niece. But, I have a bad feeling about this. Takeru liked Haruna-san a lot, so I wouldn't put it past that fox to bend his memories to keep him close to her. But who could this faker be?"
"We'll find out eventually. Should we report this to Mana-nee?"
"No, it would be too obvious. Let's wait a few days and see how things play out. Tomorrow is their birthday, after all. We can give him a present as an apology and gauge his reaction then."
"Sounds like a plan. What do we do if it's the worst case scenario?"
"…We ask Takeru how he feels about this Kagami and decide after that. We might be getting a bit too paranoid and this might all just be a trap after all."
Around the same time.
(Yuuko's Office.)
[Takeru]
"I thought we had no more secrets between us? You told me you would tell me of important stuff!"
Sensei rolled her eyes and took another sip of coffee, Kasumi pulled my arm, asking me to calm down with her eyes.
I can't believe her. 'You didn't have to know then', she says. 'You aren't ready', she says. And to think at first she just wanted to play it cool and pretend she didn't knew a thing… That's Sensei for you, that's the mysterious woman I have such a conflicting view of. What the hell is she thinking about now, behind her perfect mask?
"Sigh… Look Shirogane, I think you should not absorb this memories. Do you remember how you were after the mock battle?" She lashes out at me like a mother rabbit that just had babies, ready to bite my hand off. "What if you receive a shock wave like that one? What do I say to the Guards? If you say you're on my side, could you think of my standing too?"
"I know what we're playing with well, Sensei. I really do and I don't want to put you in more trouble. But what if this had happened during a mission? We now know I might suffer another breakdown if I'm not medicated, and this feels like something too important to ignore. You know it well, there is no way you don't know what this Shura's Dance was about!" I grit my teeth, because she… she might be involved in the murder of the kids. If she knows and doesn't want me to find out, no matter what… What does that mean?
"…So, what? Do you want to see that memory?" She held my gaze for a moment, her imposing, piercing glare cutting deep and making my knees shiver for a second.
"How about you tell me what you think is safe for starters? Let's see if I remember anything else as we go."
"…Are you thinking about Kagami? If you got negative-"
"Sensei, tell me what you can. Or, I dunno, would you rather I ask the pickles about it?" She winced for an almost nonexistent moment. Now her poker face reflected a different resolve, her violet crystal shone bright, but also wild. Another scorching spread in her gaze.
"…You wouldn't dare." Her venom was brimming right now.
"Would I?"
"Are you threatening me, Shirogane?"
"Are you keeping more secrets from me, Sensei?"
"You two, stop it!"
Chop!
"Hey, I'm just being serious here. Sensei, we can't run away from this and you know it. I really appreciate you looking out for me, but if shit is going to hit the fan, better now than later. Tomorrow is Sunday to boot. If I am to play my part in our deal, I need to know what I'm up against. And you need to trust in me being able to handle it. Or, what? Do you not want me to find out for some reason?"
She held my gaze again, caressing her chin. What was but a second felt like an eternity under the solemn watch of her eyes, that felt like they were digging deep into my soul again.
"You do realize this might make Kagami more unstable, do you? You were supposed to be remembering nice, fluffy thoughts today, not more traumatic memories. Are you really serious about saving mankind? Or, are you just going about things on a whim?" Misdirection. Guilt tripping. Sure, she has a point. However…
"…Are you saying you won't cooperate with me? What else are you hiding from me, Sensei?"
"I don't know what you're talking about. I have been honest with you, as much as I could."
"So, what do you want in exchange? What can I do to convince you of this?" Give and take, right?
"…A trade, huh? Not interested, your mental health is more important."
"But what if I have another breakdown?"
"I give you some more medicine or a headband."
"That failed once! We can't let this get in our way, Sensei. You know it." I cross my arms, plucking my lips. She gives me a bored look, resting her chin on one of her palms.
"The stability of the 00 Units takes priority over everything else, and you know it. You just need to deal with it better."
"But what if I-"
"That's all. This conversation is over. Go get your dinner, Shirogane."
"Sensei, I have to know! I can't be this unstable with all that's at risk." I hit one of my legs, glaring at her.
I can't believe her! All that's riding here on our hands… I can't let this get in the way, she knows it better than me! We need to deal with this now before it's too late. I feel as if I had a geyser coming out of my gut, I can't stop clawing at my palms.
And then, for some reason, she smiled. Devilishly so, cheerily so, the slowness made it seem as if she were holding back a wide smirk. Sensei leaned forward, locking her gaze with mine, unblinking and imposing as usual.
"So, you want to know that badly…"
"Yeah, I do. Let Kasumi help me remember that."
"I just have one question. If what you see ends up… hurting as much as what you saw when you first talked with the Shogun… What will you do?"
So, she's worried I might want to run away again, huh. I inhale through my nose, gulp what was in my mouth, and after a moment of pondering, suppressing the shaking in my fist at the prospect of going through that again, reveling in that cold army of ants marching in my back, feeling a knife caressing my ears again, I meet her gaze.
"I am staying here until Sumika is stable enough to fight by herself. I am not running away, I know full well what that means for us. You can count on me, Yuuko. I am on your side until the end, or until you don't need me anymore. Are you on my side?"
"Yes, I am." I didn't expect her to answer so quickly… "So… You want to know more? No regrets?"
"I'd be lying if I said I'm not scared. But I gotta do this for our plans to be as safe as they could be, I can't be a walking bomb. So, I need to be as stable as I can. Let me see that, whatever it was."
"…Well, if you insist so much, what choice do I have?" Her tone took that teasing hint, that smile of hers… Why was she so adamant until just now? "And, just to be clear, I am not hiding this from you for some… doubtful reasons, if that's what you were worried about."
"…I see. So, are you going to tell me?"
"I suppose reading the files will be faster. After that, if you don't remember anything else by yourself, we'll either use Yashiro or the machine. However, once we start, we won't stop. So, you'll probably miss dinner with your squad. Is that alright? Or do you want to go get dinner first?"
"No, let's deal with this. So, what the hell happened during Shura's Dance?"
"Well…" She types something in her laptop, and as she does, she continues to talk. "Let me tell you the rumors of civilians being murdered were all lies."
"Huh? But I told you I heard-"
"Yes, I know. But what I found out… Sigh… It might explain why it hurt him so much."
She passed me the laptop. Two things were open. One, the official report of Shura's Dance. The other, four death certificates. Seeing the names sent a chill down my back, my hands quivered as I felt nails being encrusted into my fingers, and a strong hit assailed my stomach.
…The deaths papers belonged to… the members of the Kurosawa Family.
