PART THREE: REVELATIONS
By: Jenny Lambert
Ken toyed with a pencil and stared at the blank piece of paper in front of him. After the doctor had attended to his injury, he did not return to Joe's room, but instead, had gone home. Now, he felt both guilt and anger for not returning. Though he would try to explain later, Joe would never understand his reasoning. He would start all over again with the prodding, something Ken was tired of hearing. There were too many things he didn't want anyone to know, and too many issues he needed to work out himself.
"Why couldn't I tell Joe? He's practically my brother, and if I can't confide in him, who can I confide in?"
Overwhelmed, he snapped the pencil in two, then grabbed another one. He had thought about his decision long and hard, and though he wasn't 100% convinced, knew in his heart it was best.
"How can I be a leader when I can't even figure myself out? Damn it, just let someone else do the job. In my condition, I'll just get in the way and make hell out of everything. I need time to work things out, not worry about being the Science Ninja Team's first in command."
No one would understand, and some, mainly Joe, would call him a coward. Maybe, someday, he could tell them the truth. Ken Washio should never have been the leader of anything; he just wasn't cut out for the stressful demands and responsibilities. As the words came, he scribbled them down.
Due to conflicting personal problems, I resign my
command as leader of the Science Ninja Team.
************
Joe was restless; he flipped through the television channels trying to ease the boredom. After being cooped up in the hospital for over two days, he was desperate to get out. "Why don't I just discharge myself and get the hell out of here? I can't take all this lying around doing nothing. The monotony is driving me crazy, and I could just as easily do this at home."
He frowned, remembering the condition Ken had left his trailer, and the G-2, in. "That bastard…" Quickly, his anger turned to concern. After their last conversation, Ken had said he would come back to visit, but he hadn't. Joe knew why. "Guess I was right. The jerk really doesn't have the balls to fess up to me. Oh well, I'll just have to do it the hard way, by beating it out of him."
And yet another issue was racking his nerves. Jinpei. The boy hadn't come to visit him either, and Ryu and Jun were much too nonchalant about it. He was curious, and really wanted to find out why. Deciding to do some investigating, he picked up the hospital phone and dialed the operator.
************
Doctor Nambu got through the first line of the resignation letter before tearing it up. He was livid, and Ken had expected it. "This is bullshit, and I won't accept it! If I thought you were anything less than a leader, why would I have chosen you in the first place?"
"I don't want to deal with it right now. It's just too much."
"You always say 'I don't want to deal with it'. When will you? I thought you were working this out with Joe. Is this your solution? The easy way out?"
"You once said my actions would someday affect how others view me as commander. You said it would make me seem weak."
"Well it sure has, hasn't it?"
"Damn you! How do you think the others would really feel if they ever found out I…"
He paused, not wanting to continue. Nambu finished for him. "Tried to commit suicide? That you were institutionalized because of your erratic self-destructing behavior?"
It was hard enough for Ken to say it to himself, and hearing the words aloud from someone else made his cringe. The truth was unacceptable, and in frustration, he threw a punch at the Doctor's head. "Stop, I don't want to hear it!"
Though surprised, Nambu deflected the blow easily, pleased to see some type of retaliation from the boy. "Nice to see you do have some fire left in you. You forget, though, I trained you, and I can anticipate your every movement."
He watched sympathetically as Ken regained his composure, then apologized. "It…it can't go on like this. I'm losing my mind."
"Then find it again, and stop this self hating. You can't expect anyone else to respect you when you can't even respect yourself. I don't want to hear anything more about a resignation. I will, however, grant you a temporary leave of absence so you can sort things out. This applies ONLY if your services are not needed. Should Galactor strike, I expect you to return, to do your duty as commander. You hear me?"
Ken nodded silently, then left the office, feeling the weight growing heavier on his shoulders.
************
Joe felt a knot form in his chest, and he started fidgeting. For some reason, he didn't want the operator to pick up.
.
"Can I help you?"
"Uh, yes, I'm looking for someone who may have been admitted some time ago. He's a young kid, about fourteen, and his name is Jinpei."
"Jinpei? Hold on while I check the records."
Over the receiver, he could hear the shuffling of papers. The anticipation was growing even more intense, and a cold sweat started to form on his brow. It seemed like an eternity, but it took less than a minute. "Yes, we do have a Jinpei, but his room number is restricted."
"Can you tell me why he was admitted?"
He knew the answer before even asking the question. "That's restricted information also. I'm sorry."
"Look, I'm here at the hospital too. I'm in room 312, name's Joe Asakura. There is also restricted information on me. Jinpei and I are good friends, and I really need to talk to him."
"I understand your concern, but I can't help you."
"Sure you can. Ask Director Anderson or Doctor Nambu about me, and they will give you clearance. I work for both of them. I can't say it enough, but it's very important I talk to him."
"Let me put you on hold and contact one of them. I'll see what I can do."
************
The battle at Pearl City had begun, and the overpowering Galactor army was quickly eliminating the UN Forces, as well as the other troops. The outcome was inevitable. Soon, the city would be captured, then claimed by the Galactor organization.
Berg Katse was pleased by the results, and also floored by the fact that he would finally have control of a major Earth city. It was the first time he could truly proclaim success, and soon, everyone on Earth would be bowing to him, praising him as Earth's new lord and master.
************
Joe wanted to scream. Though he had only been on hold for a few minutes, the silence on the other end was irritating him. He didn't know why, but he knew he had to get in touch with Jinpei. "Damn it, hurry up! How long can it take? The least they could do is play some music or something!"
He waited a few more minutes, the started wondering if the operator forgot about him. "That lady better be working. If I find out she went for a coffee break I'll…"
The thought was interrupted by a click on the line. "Sorry for the delay. I couldn't reach Doctor Nambu, but I did get in touch with Director Anderson. He said you have authorization to call your friend. He's in room 255."
Joe exhaled loudly. "Thank you very much. I appreciate it."
The plan had worked perfectly. Grabbing his clothes from the closet, he headed off to the second floor. "When will they learn to lock me up? Hakase ought to know by now I won't stay put."
************
Shortly after Ken left his office, Doctor Nambu heard the emergency news broadcast.
"A Galactor army has led an attack on Pearl City, and UN Forces, as well as other armed troops, have been called in. The casualty list is in the hundreds, and is sure to rise. We will continue to broadcast live as more information becomes available"
He signaled to Ken, but the message went unheard. He thought the boy had understood the terms of the 'leave of absence', but apparently he did not. Already he had turned off his G-1 transpower band.
"Of all the times for Galactor to strike, why now?" Dumbfounded, he lowered his head into his hands. "How can I expect the Science Ninja Team to take this on? Ken's having personal problems and won't command, Joe is still recovering from his previous experience, and Jinpei won't go near Joe because he's afraid of him. How did I let this get so out of hand?"
************
Any other time Joe could have easily entered the hospital room, but for some reason, he hesitated. He could hear the low murmur of the television, and the familiar voices of Jun and Ryu. They were trying to be convincing, but were not succeeding.
"Come on Jinpei. You have to go see him, or call him at least. He's not stupid, and we can't come up with excuses forever."
"No, I'm not ready yet."
They were right. Joe wasn't stupid, and he knew who the "he" was they were referring to. Fighting an internal panic, he tried to recall what happened. There were flashes of death, most of them Galactor, but that was it. There were no memories that involved Jinpei.
"When will you be ready? It's been four days now."
"I don't know. I just don't want to see him now. Why can't you just leave me alone?"
Joe's voice from the hallway brought the conversation to an abrupt halt. "You don't have to come see me Jinpei. I'm here to see you."
As he entered the room, Jun gasped. "Joe?"
Ryu followed suit. "Joe? How long you been standing out there in the hallway?"
"Long enough to know you couldn't convince the kid to see me." The next question was steered directly at Jinpei. "Why? Why wouldn't you come and see me?"
He didn't answer, but instead, pulled himself closer to Jun, pleading. "Onechan, make him leave."
It was obvious Joe was about to lose his temper, but Ryu's warning helped him keep his composure. "Don't get mad Joe. That'll only make things worse."
Joe's voice was calm, but his stare was icy. "Worse? How can things get much worse?"
Jun looked at Ryu, sensing it was time for them to leave. As she got up from the bedside, Jinpei became hysterical. "Onechan! Where are you going? You're not going to leave me here with him are you? You can't!"
"Jinpei, this has gone far enough. You two need to talk this out, without our interruption."
"There's nothing to talk about! If you leave me here with him, he'll hurt me again!"
Under his breath Joe cursed, then closed his eyes and exhaled sharply. The anger was so apparent his body was trembling, but he now knew why Ryu had told him not to express it. Jinpei was afraid of him. Why? His mind struggled to put the pieces together, but still they would not fit. "What the hell did I do to him? I don't remember!"
Ryu squeezed Joe's shoulder comfortingly, said a few apologetic words, and left; Jun followed close behind. All the while Jinpei sobbed. "Onechan! Ryu! Someone stay here with me! Don't…" He didn't finish the sentence, seeing the door close behind Jun. Neither of them had listened, and now here he was, face to face with his enemy.
Grabbing a nearby chair, Joe pulled it to the opposite side of the room. His voice was strong, yet non-threatening. "I'm going to sit way over here Jinpei. This way I can't…I can't do anything to you. Ok?"
"No! I don't want you anywhere near me! Go away!"
"Why?"
"Because you hurt me, and you don't care. You never do!"
Joe's voice became louder and harsher; it frightened Jinpei. "What is that supposed to mean? Where the hell is that brain of yours? I could never…"
"Shut up, and don't say you never could! You are selfish and uncaring, and everyone knows you don't like me."
"I don't like you?"
"Yea, you think I'm some worthless child, too young to be of any use to. We'll, I'm not!"
I don't think that at all. You're making NO sense!"
Jinpei ignored him and turned up the volume on the television, as a way to block out the conversation. Joe felt the irritation begin to rise again. "Look, just forget it ok? You're no different than your 'Aniki'. He chooses to be blind to the truth also."
He was about to leave when the news broadcast about the war at Pearl City attracted his attention. As he saw the death and destruction on the television screen, his blood began to boil. "I can't believe we haven't been dispatched. Someone has to step forward, before it's too late."
For an instant, Jinpei looked up, then turned away again. Joe noticed the sideways glance and commented on it. "Jinpei, you are crazy if you think I could, or would, purposefully hurt you. I wish you knew how I really felt about you, but I don't have time to get into it. I've got to find out from Hakase what the hell is going on!"
************
At the ISO press conference, Director Anderson tried handling the barrage of questions as best he could. Many were outraged by the fact the UN was being defeated, and others feared for the future of Pearl City. It was total chaos.
"Sir, this special elite force, Science Ninja Team Gatchaman, has the weaponry and training for these types of situations. Why haven't they been dispatched?"
"Director Anderson, is it true you haven't called upon the Science Ninja Team because you doubt their abilities to defeat the entire Galactor army, one even the UN cannot overcome?"
The Director raised his hands, asking for silence. With the situation, he could understand all the concerns, but he didn't expect the skepticism. "No I do not doubt their abilities. Right now three members of the Science Ninja Team are recovering from personal traumatic experiences, which exclude them from taking part in any missions."
"If this team can't do their job, why not turn the weaponry over to the UN?"
"The Science Ninja Team has had specialized training with their weaponry, and their mechas have been constructed based on their individual personalities. The Gatchaman Project is experimental, as well as highly confidential, and cannot be revealed to just anyone."
"So you say we have the weaponry to destroy this army, but you won't allow it to be used? Surely you can't continue to do nothing, and let the lives of all those who fought be in vain."
"The time will come ladies and gentlemen, but not right now."
"When then? How many more will it take Director?"
Director Anderson was getting tired of the pointed questions. His voice was edgy, with an undertone of bitterness. "Our hands are tied, but don't expect us to just roll over and die. I'm sorry, but I cannot take any more questions. Thank you for your time."
Quite simply, ISO had no idea how they planned on handling the situation at Pearl City. Red Impulse was doing all they could, but even their effort wasn't enough. The Science Ninja Team was desperately needed, but their current status was unnerving. No one knew when, or if, the team could step in. Only time would tell.
************
Doctor Nambu nervously watched from his desk as Joe paced back and forth in front of him. "You're just going to sit here and do nothing? Send us out, damn it!"
"I can't. Not now."
"If not now, when? Look, someone has to stop this. Am I going to have to do it myself?"
"No Joe. You know better than anyone does your condition. Besides, we are told to stand by until Galactor makes the next move."
"And what then? See how many more innocent lives can be lost? This is bullshit!"
"Joe…"
He rudely interrupted. "And where the hell is Ken? He should be here doing the arguing, not me!"
"He's on a leave of absence, unless some crisis should occur."
"Isn't this a crisis? Get his ass back here! He's a grown man, not some immature child that has to run off and have a temper tantrum every time life gets rough."
"I think it might do more harm than good right now if he came back."
"Oh really? How?"
Nambu ignored the sarcasm. "Joe, you heard my orders. I will not send the Science Ninja Team on a suicide mission, and that is final!"
Joe snorted in disgust, then crossed his arms in defiance. "Hakase, this is one order I cannot obey."
The Doctor's features hardened. "And just what do you plan on doing Joseph? Right now there is no Science Ninja Team. Ken handed me his resignation earlier today, which Ï didn't accept, but he still refuses to be your commander. You are supposed to be in recovery, and are in no shape to be out playing the hero. Jinpei is also in recovery, and won't even consider working around you. That leaves Jun and Ryu. Can you expect the two of them to take on the whole Galactor army? They can't, which is why the situation has been left up to the UN and Red Impulse. Can you understand that?"
Joe nodded his head and looked towards the ground. He wanted to scream, but instead, kept his cool and responded calmly. "I do understand Hakase, and I'm sorry. You're right, I do need to rest, but it's just so hard."
Doctor Nambu softened. "It's hard on all of us, but things will work themselves out. Just believe it will."
"I know it will, I know."
************
Even though Joe had been sincere with his words and tried to receive forgiveness, Jinpei's response had been bitter, without understanding. Now, as he sat alone in his room, he wished he had treated Joe better, and allowed himself to accept the apology.
Staring out the window, he recalled bits and pieces of the conversation, then remembered how Joe's mood changed after hearing the news broadcast. It was like the protective walls came up and vengeance took over. He had focused solely on the television and forgot everything else; hearing about Galactor always seemed to bring about that response.
"I can't believe we haven't been dispatched. Someone has to step forward, before it's too late."
It wasn't so much the words, as it was the expression in Joe's eyes. He had that look of determination, as if to say "That someone is me." Jinpei gulped. "He can't possibly think of taking on that army by himself!" Quickly he retracted thee statement, realizing whom it was he was talking about. If anyone would do such a thing, it would be Joe. "Shit! I can't let him go alone. I should probably tell the others, but what if I'm wrong?"
He juggled each possibility back and forth, then decided what he wanted to do. "I was rotten to Joe, and I need to make it up to him. I have to let him know I really do care about him. But if I tell the others, they won't let me go. They'll just say I'm too young."
He knew Jun would be furious, but then again, she always was when he took off without reason. She was so much like his mother, and it sometimes drove him crazy. Still, he didn't want her worrying. Before taking off for his helobuggy, he hastily scribbled a short note and laid it on the pillow.
Jun,
Don't worry. Working things out
with Joe. Be back soon (hopefully)
Love,
Jinpei
************
Joe was surprised by how easy it was to leave Crescent City. "Wow, Hakase really is trusting these days. I thought for sure there'd be security following me. Guess that guilty conscience act I was giving him really worked."
Though his body was tired and aching, he pushed the feelings aside, and focused on the mission. At Utoland Airport, he would take a commercial jet to the coastal city of San Marie. After that the plan was sketchy, but he knew somewhere Pearl City fit in. Death was possible, but it didn't matter. It never did. Nothing mattered except vengeance and stopping the newest Galactor plot. Hopefully, that would be easier than he was imagining.
As he pulled into the airport parking area, he couldn't help but think about Ken. Growing up, all he ever heard from his brother's mouth was how he wanted to be a test pilot. It got old quick, and thankfully, the stories ended when Ken finally became one. He had taught Joe to fly, and Joe, in return, had tried to teach him the basics of car racing. That didn't go off too well. After Ken slammed the G-2 sideways into a barrier wall, Joe decided not to pursue it any longer. He laughed, remembering what he had said after the accident.
"Racing is definitely not in your blood. Stick to being a pilot. It keeps you off the roadways."
Ken had thought the comment funny, that is, until he was presented with the car repair bill. "$2,500? How am I supposed to pay for this? I'm broke!"
"So, what else is new? Everyone knows you can't pay for a anything unless it's in the form of an IOU."
Lost in thought, he never bothered to check his rear view mirror. If he had, he might have seen the red helobuggy that was following not too far behind.
************
The flight was going to take eight hours, and already Joe was bored. After fidgeting restlessly in his seat and succeeding to annoy the passengers around him, he decided to take a walk. It wasn't far to the back of the plane from his seat, but at least he could try to clear his mind.
As he got up, he saw a blur of movement from the corner of his eye. Turning, he saw a child duck behind one of the seats nearby. At first he didn't think much about it, but after a few minutes of grumbling about it, he decided it seemed sort of odd. Looking back, he again saw two eyes peer slightly over the seat's headrest, then duck back down. Though he didn't get a good glimpse of the face, there was something familiar about the brown wisps of hair that went unconcealed.
"Oh shit, I don't believe this! Damn you kid!" The obscenities were audible, making a few of the passengers look up in disgust. Joe did not apologize, being much too irritated to even consider it. "Jinpei!" There was no response, and he quickly lost patience. "Jinpei! Get the hell out from behind that seat, NOW!"
Slowly, Jinpei's head appeared; his facial expression said it all. "Uh oh." It was obvious Joe wanted to administer physical punishment, and the boy was suddenly thankful for the passengers around him. Had they not been in public, Joe probably would have killed him…twice.
"What the HELL are you doing here?"
"Following you. After that, I don't know. What are we doing?"
"WE'RE not doing anything. I'M going to Pearl City."
"Not without me you're not. It's my turn to prove I'm just as good as the rest of you. I'm not some worthless child, you know."
"Shit, Jinpei!…" He paused, feeling his body tremble from the suppressed anger. "I never said you were."
There was silence for a moment, then Jinpei questioned. "So what do you think of me then?"
His reply was harsher than intended. "Why all of a sudden do you want to talk to me?" As Jinpei shied away, he lowered his head apologetically. "Sorry kid. Didn't mean to sound so pissed off. Still trying to figure out what happened between us, that's all."
"I was being stubborn and stupid at the hospital. I wasn't really mad at you, just had a hard time believing you could hurt me like you did. I can understand being thrown against the wall, but you went way beyond that. You didn't have to slap me, kick me, and shoot me!"
Joe looked up, surprised. "What? That's what I did?"
"You mean you really don't remember?"
The puzzled look on his face just about summed it up. "You think I would…or could…intentionally hurt you? Damn, what kind of person do you think I am?"
Jinpei shrugged. "One that doesn't like children."
"I don't dislike children, just don't have the patience for them. Guess it's because I never had a childhood myself. Anyway, I don't consider you to be a child."
"You don't?"
"No. Sometimes I think you're more a man than I could ever be. You're nine years old, and look what you've done already. When I was nine, I was wallowing in self-pity and consumed by vengeance. If I would have had half your determination, strength, and attitude, things could have been different for me."
Jinpei was humbled, and could hardly speak. All this time he thought Joe disliked him, when actually he respected him. "I…I never knew."
"I know kid. We probably should've had this conversation earlier, but I couldn't bring myself to talk about it with you. I don't know why. Maybe it's because I'm envious of your relationship with the others."
"You are? Why?"
"Sort of self-explanatory isn't it? You call Jun your onechan, and Ken your aniki. Ryu's like a big brother to you too. You can go to any of them, but you never could come to me. Guess it's my fault really."
"You're my aniki too Joe. I just didn't think you wanted to hear it. Did you?"
Joe turned away as he felt the corners of his eyes begin to tear. He realized he didn't always treat Jinpei the greatest, but he did care a lot for him, and was hurt to know the kid didn't see it. "I'm sorry you don't know how I feel about you Jinpei. I've always loved you like a little brother, was just too afraid to show it. It seems like every time I get close to someone, they end up dying."
"It's ok Joe. I understand now, and I'm sorry too."
He put his head on Joe's shoulder, and began to doze off. It was a strange feeling, one Joe wasn't used to, but he didn't mind it. Instead of being irritating, the boy's presence was comforting. "I hate to admit this Jinpei, but I think I enjoy you're being here."
"Really?" He wanted to say more, but was distracted by the stewardess, who was coming with the dinner cart. "Alright, let's eat! I'm starving!"
Joe smiled, then grimaced as the food tray was placed in his lap. "After all that hospital food, Ï was hoping for something better. Should have flown first class, huh?"
"Tastes great to me! If you don't want it, I'll eat it!"
He watched as Jinpei stuffed a large forkful of potatoes in his mouth, and couldn't help but laugh. "Where you putting all that food kid? You're going to get sick."
"No I won't. No amount of food is too much for the mighty Swallow Jinpei."
"Ok, we'll see just how mighty the Swallow is in about an hour."
Jinpei wrinkled up his nose. "I'll be just fine."
It couldn't have been worse. Less than an hour later, he was complaining of a stomachache. It didn't help either that Joe kept reminding him, nagging him like a two-year-old. "Told you so."
************
As predicted, Jun was furious. "I can't believe he ran off again without telling us! What's with him?"
"Jun, he'll be ok. He's with Joe."
"Oh, that's comforting. I can't wait to see what wonderful habits he picked up this time."
Hoping Ken had an explanation, she signaled to him on her transpower band. There was no response. "Is he gone too? Why are men so irresponsible?"
Ryu shrugged, knowing he couldn't say anything to make Jun feel better. He didn't have to; His helpless demeanor was enough to make her smile. "Ok Ryu, I exclude you from 'men' clause. I can depend on you."
He blushed, feeling terrible uncomfortable. "I couldn't have gone with them anyway. I'm the one that's always left behind, remember?"
She laughed, feeling the tension ease slightly. Though she was genuinely concerned, the situation was completely out of her hands. There was no way to make Jinpei magically reappear. "Oh well, guess we'll just wait, and worry, and wait some more. But when they all come back, you can guarantee they're going to hear it from me!"
"I don't doubt it Jun. Ken said there's nothing worse than an angry woman, except you."
"He WHAT?"
Ryu bit his lip, and for Ken's sake, wished he hadn't made the remark. Jun wouldn't forget it, and one thing was certain. There was going to be a lot more than angry words when the three of them returned.
************
The pilot checked his flight plans, then scratched his head. He knew he had a cargo full of weapons and supplies, but still didn't feel comfortable with their destination. There had been a lot of rumors circling around about Pearl City and the Galactor organization, most of them being positive. The city's condition was improving, and the residents were being helped immensely, by providing shelter for the homeless, food to the needy, and money to the poor.
"Funny that an operation so evil could be doing such good. Wonder if there isn't some ulterior motive?"
As he jumped into the cockpit and started the engines, he couldn't help but continue to wonder about the strange happenings at Pearl City.
************
Exhausted from the long flight, Joe and Jinpei stood on the docks of San Marie Harbor. "Well, where do we start?"
"I'm going to visit the harbor master. With any luck, we'll find out who's headed for Pearl City. Stay here and keep watch. If I come back and don't find you here, I'll hunt you down and kick your ass."
Jinpei gave a mock salute. "Aye aye Captain!"
The Harbor Master clerk gazed questioningly at Joe. "Why you looking for an outgoing vessel en route to Pearl City?"
"I've got a friend I wanted to meet before he sets sail. He told me his destination was Pearl City, but he forgot to mention the name of the ship. With hundreds of them out there, I don't even know where to begin."
The clerk nodded in understanding, then started going down the listing of ships. "Heard there's some interesting things going on at that island."
"Such as?"
"People are saying the Galactor organization isn't all that bad. They're really going all out to help the residents rebuild. It wasn't their intention to destroy the city, they just wanted an above ground base of operations. Guess they would have done it sooner if the Science Ninja Team wasn't always butting in."
Joe was angered by the comment, but kept his cool. "Got something against the Science Ninja Team? If Galactor's plan was to protect the Earth, they wouldn't be trying so hard to destroy it."
The clerk looked up for a moment; his eyebrows raised in curiosity. "Sounds like you have some sort of resentment against the Galactor."
"Nope, just don't believe in what they stand for." The comment went without a response, and Joe sighed quietly, glad to hear the conversation was over. If it had gone on much longer, he might have had to punch the idiot.
No other words were spoken until the clerk found what he was looking for. "Figures she's listed all the way at the bottom. The container vessel 'Kobiashi Maru' is set to leave port in an hour. She's in Dock #7."
************
Jinpei's eyes were full of questions, and the answers came quick. "The ship is in Dock #7, and leaves in an hour."
He groaned impatiently. "An hour? I'm tired of all this waiting around!"
"You won't be. I'm putting you to work. We can't just walk on this ship. We have to sneak on."
"Sneak on? This is my forte! I'm liking this better by the minute."
Joe exhaled, trying not to show his irritation, but it was obvious. "This isn't a game Jinpei, ok? Can you try being serious for five minutes?"
Embarrassed, the young boy looked towards the ground. "Sorry Joe."
"Don't be sorry, just don't forget we're on a mission. Now, I need you to hunt down an unlocked container, preferably one with food inside. We'll be on ship a few days."
"A few days?" He pointed towards one of the containers, disbelieving. "In one of those?"
"You learn fast kid. Ready?"
"I suppose. Wish me luck Joe."
************
The Kobiashi Maru was a gigantic ship, about 600 feet long, and definitely not a pretty sight. She was an old ship, reminiscent of the Liberty ships of World War II. Her steel hull was rusted and in terrible need of a paint job, and she looked as hastily put together as one of Galactor's best mechas.
Jinpei found the unlocked container almost instantly. It was off to the far right of the dock, out of sight from most of the workers; it would be easy to sneak in to. Using hand signals, he motioned to Joe that he found one, then proceeded to enter. Instantly, the cold steel walls and unfriendly atmosphere made him anxious. "Great, we've got to be in this thing for three days?"
Less than a minute later, Joe peered in. He noticed the downcast look on Jinpei's face, and tried to lighten his spirits. "What's the matter kid? Don't feel at home yet?"
"No. I don't think I'm going to like this."
"We haven't left yet, you know. There's still plenty of time for you to turn back."
The boy's spirits rose to the challenge. "Don't think I'm going to stay behind and miss all the fun. Besides, I think you'd go crazy in here by yourself. It would be like solitary confinement."
"Think so, do you? I'll bet you $10 you're the first to crack. Deal?"
Before agreeing, Jinpei upped the stakes. "$25, take it or leave it."
"Wow, feeling daring aren't you? Where'd you learn to gamble?"
"From Ryu, he's very good at it. Ask him to play poker sometime, and you'll see for yourself."
"No thanks. I like my money too much, and really don't want to end up broke."
"Like Ken?"
Joe laughed, then nodded in agreement. "Yea, like Ken. If he's remembered for anything, it will be for his lack of money." Feeling the urge to change the subject, he commented on the first thing that came to mind. "We're going to be here a while, so why not try to relax?"
"Sure, why not."
The floor was cold, and anything but comfortable. Joe lay on his back staring at the ceiling, while Jinpei sat cross-legged with his back against the wall. There was silence for a few minutes as both were lost in thought.
"Joe?"
"Yea?"
"What'cha thinking about?"
At first he didn't want to reply, but then figured it wouldn't do any harm. If he was going to be cooped up with the boy for three days, he knew the question would come up again sooner or later. "Oh, a lot of things. Pearl City, the Galactor, my parents, Hakase and how pissed off he must be right now, Jun, Ryu, Ken."
"I'm thinking of Aniki too. I really miss him."
"I miss him too Jinpei. The last time we talked it wasn't the greatest conversation. We parted on bad terms, and now I wish we hadn't."
"How come?"
"I was being my normal pushy self, and Ken was being his normal stubborn self. The conversation went nowhere, and I called him a bastard. It's the last thing I said to him."
"Oh…well, you can make it up to him later."
The optimism in Jinpei's voice was comforting. Though Joe would never admit it, he was afraid. In the past he would have died willingly, and wouldn't have cared, but this time he felt differently. Death was the farthest thing from his mind, and he desperately wanted to live, for the others, and for himself. "You can bet I'll make it up to him, Jinpei. The only way I know how, by slugging him."
************
The pilot effortlessly touched down at Pearl City airfield, surprised at the lack of security present. Pulling out the flight plan and cargo list, he jumped from the cockpit, and greeted the two awaiting guards.
"Your name and ID please?"
"Robert Akira. ID #426517"
One of the guards scrolled down a list of names, flipped the page, and continued. "Akira, Robert. He's here. Now, can I see your flight plan and cargo list?"
The pilot adjusted his horned rimmed glasses, then handed over the required paperwork. "Figured you have more security around. Pretty relaxed, isn't it?"
The guard shrugged. "Don't need a whole lot. Galactor is no threat. Look what he's done for us."
He extended his arms, waving, as if to encourage the pilot to take a look around. "They may have taken over the city, but most of the residents are now thankful. Our main problem is the Science Ninja Team. They'll probably show up sooner or later and try to destroy this."
Quickly, the conversation moved in another direction. "Boy, what I wouldn't do for a bite to eat and a shower. Too bad I'm a little short on money."
"Oh yea, almost forgot. This is for your services." Grinning, the guard pulled out a manila envelope. When the pilot opened it, his eyes widened at the sight of thirty $100 bills. "Wow, the boss sure is generous. Not looking for workers anywhere else is he?"
"Nope, just wants you to know he appreciates your help. The supplies you flew in were desperately needed. A lot of others turned down the job because of fear. You must come from a different mold. Take the money and go have fun.
As he turned and walked away, one of the guards eyed him suspiciously. "Looks like our strange visitor is going to be staying for a while."
"Got a problem with that?"
"Yea. Robert Akira never should have made it here. I was informed his plane was stolen."
"Who the hell was that then?"
"I don't know, but I intend to find out."
************
It has been two and a half days, and though Joe didn't show it, he was going out of his mind. Throwing shuriken at a makeshift dartboard was only fun for so long, and watching Jinpei work his bolos wasn't much more exciting. They had even tried training on each other's weapons, but it too got old quick. About the only thing the two weren't bored with was sleeping.
As requested, Jinpei had found a container with food in it, but Joe hadn't thought of what kind of food a nine year old would like. Now that they were locked in, he came to the realization that all there was to eat was potato chips, sugar cookies, and Mountain Dew. Since the first night, Jinpei had been bouncing off the walls with a sugar high, and showed no signs of letting up. Joe had already handed over the $25, admitting there was no way he could outlast the kid's energy.
Sighing from the extreme boredom, he stared at the ceiling for the millionth time. He could hear Jinpei curiously tearing apart the cargo, looking for something new to entertain himself with. "I wish that damned kid would chill out already! He really is starting to get on my nerves!"
He closed his eyes to rest, but was awoken a few minutes later. "Joe?"
"What now?"
"Can you explain this to me?"
Joe opened his eyes, then let his jaw drop open when he saw what was in Jinpei's hand. "Where did you get that?"
He pointed to the corner where he had been rummaging. "There's a whole pile of them over there. There's nothing but naked men and women in it, and I don't understand what they are doing."
He blushed, then took the magazine from Jinpei. "Uh…this is probably something Jun should be telling you about. I'm really not too good at these things."
"Aniki says you have lots of women friends." He flipped to a page, and pointed to one of the pictures. "Have you done this before?"
It wasn't the truth, but it sounded good. "Well…uh…no, I haven't. See, a man and a woman do that sort of thing when they want to make babies."
The boy nodded in understanding. "Oh, so THAT'S how it happens? Is this why you and Ken won't go out with onechan? Because you don't want to make babies?"
"No, uh…there's much more to it than that. You also have to love the person you're doing it with."
"You mean you and Ken don't love onechan?"
"Of course we do, but it's different. I'd love to ask Jun out, but…"
Jinpei interrupted excitedly. "Really? I've always wanted a little brother Joe!"
Joe put his head in his hands, hoping desperately that Jinpei would forget the conversation later. If not, he'd be in some deep trouble with Jun. He couldn't think of a good response, or further explanation, so he said the first thing that came to mind.
"Tell you what. Ask your onechan about it when we get back, ok?"
"Ok Joe, I will. Now I can't wait to get home!"
He felt his stomach churning inside, and he became nauseous. Suddenly, he wasn't so anxious to get to Pearl City. As Jinpei returned to rummage again through the cargo, Joe shook his head sympathetically. "Say your prayers Joe. You're a dead man."
************
From the hotel window, he watched the city streets below. The whole day had been spent roaming the city and asking questions, but he was no closer to getting an answer. Had anyone seen the infamous Berg Katse? No. Was there any base of operations being constructed, above or below ground? No. Were there any armed guards milling around in green suits? No. Has there been any strange devices, mechas, or equipment coming in or going out? No. It just didn't make sense. There was no evidence at all to show the Galactor was even present.
He pinched the bridge of his nose, trying to relieve the intensifying headache. This was going nowhere. He had come all this way to find out the truth, and it may have all been in vain. "Hell! Why did they take over this island if they aren't going to use it? I can't believe it's just a front for something else!"
Looking at the clock, which read 1:30 AM, he felt the exhaustion taking over. It had been a long day, and maybe tomorrow there would be someone with answers. Though he tried to remain optimistic, he was terribly doubtful. "What am I supposed to report if I don't find anything out? I was supposed to be on call, not running off by myself and trying to be a hero. Damn it Ken, you're an idiot!"
************
At ISO Headquarters, Doctor Nambu had his hands full. Though he was completely against the idea of letting Jun and Ryu take the Phoenix to Pearl City, they were adamant. "Hakase, look. Joe and Jinpei have been gone for three days. Where else do you think they would have gone?"
"And Ken's nowhere to be found either. If they did go to the island, they may need our help. We're a team, and we're supposed to be working together!"
"Unless we can confirm it, I don't want the Phoenix near that island. It could propose a threat."
"But Hakase, do you want to be responsible should something happen to any of them on that island? I couldn't bear with knowing we could have done something, but didn't."
Nambu ran his fingers through his hair, then removed his glasses and rubbed his eyes. He knew that no matter what he said, the two remaining members of the Science Ninja Team would take on the mission. It was their duty as teammates to protect each other, no matter the situation.
"Though I have a bad feeling about you two going, I cannot object. No one can prevent you from doing your duty. I do appreciate you running it by me though, and not being like your fellow comrades. Keep me informed, and good luck."
************
Joe arose cursing as the crane operator carelessly lifted the cargo from the Kobiachi Maru's hold. After being thrown sharply to the left, then to the right, he managed to regain his balance just before the container crashed hard against the ground. Surprisingly enough, all the jostling failed to wake the sleeping Jinpei, who lay curled up comfortably under a plastic tarp.
"Hey kid, get up. We're here."
Jinpei grumbled, and covered his head. "Just a few more minutes, Joe."
"Get up now, or you're going to regret it."
"Why?"
Without answering, Joe grabbed one of Jinpei's bare feet and started tickling it. The boy squirmed and tried getting away, but the hold was too strong. Before long, he was howling with laughter and begging for mercy. "Ok, ok, I forfeit! You win!"
"About time. I was starting to think you'd never come around."
Jinpei yawned, stretched, and rubbed his grumbling stomach. "I'm starving. Hope there's a good restaurant around here."
"Me too, because you're buying."
"With what? And why am I buying?"
"With the $25 I gave you, and because you stuck us in a container with only junk food and Mountain Dew."
"What's wrong with that?"
"Nothing if you're nine years old! I happen to be eighteen, and Sicilian at that. Get the point?"
"Yea, you jerk."
Joe's eyebrows rose up in surprise. "What did you just call me?"
"Uh…nothing. I just agreed with you."
"Sure you did. I warn you now, someday that comment is going to come back to haunt you."
************
As he walked the streets headed towards the local restaurant, Ken could sense he was being followed. He didn't know why, but had his suspicions. The people of Pearl City were uneasy around outsiders, and for some reason, they didn't like his presence.
Quickening his pace, he strode away from the restaurant and down a side alley, then ducked behind a garbage dumpster and waited intently. Transforming into birdstyle would have been ideal, but doing so would reveal his true identity. He was supposed to be a simple pilot looking for a few days rest, not the Science Ninja Team's first in command.
A few minutes later, five men appeared, heavily armed and obviously unhappy. "We know you're down here. Show yourself so we can get this over with!"
Hidden from view Ken called out. "Who are you, and what do you want?"
"It doesn't matter who we are. Who are you? You should have done your research boy. Robert Akria's plane was reported stolen, and never should have arrived here. That is, unless you're the person who stole it!"
With his heart pounding in his chest, he tried to think of a resolution. "Damn! You blew this one big time! How do you plan on getting out of it?" He heard the footsteps approaching closer and wanted to scream. "I can't kill innocent people! What the hell am I supposed to do?"
Feeling for his boomerang, he knew there was only one option; kill or be killed. In one motion he rose and attacked, taking all five by surprise.
************
Joe opened the container door a crack and glanced around; the docks looked deserted, just as he had hoped. Opening the door wider, he stepped out, and was greeted instantly by an unfamiliar voice. "You there? What do you think you're doing?"
He spun around in a panic to see two security guards standing above him, guns pointed. "Uh, trying to get to Pearl City. I've heard the rumors about what the Galactor has done here, and I want to join up."
"Join up? Uh huh."
The guards did not sound very convinced. Using hand signals, Joe told Jinpei to stay put, and to let him handle the situation. "Yea, I'm looking for work, and thought I'd join up with the winning team."
"Out of work are you? What's the matter, not making enough on that Science Ninja Team salary?"
"Science Ninja Team? You've got to be kidding. You don't think…"
His voice went weak when he got a glimpse of the "wanted" poster in the guard's hand. Sneering, the man replied, "No, I don't think. I know. Says here that your name is Joe Asakura, G-2 of the Science Ninja Team. We were told you were coming. This whole island is watching for you."
Joe grumbled under his breath. "Shit! Now what?"
They approached from different directions, trying to cut off any possible exits. "We know there are five of you. Where are the others?"
"Others? I came alone. Wanted to see for myself what was going on here."
"Oh really? Bet if I took a good look inside that container you just came from, I'd find something interesting. Out of the way!"
************
Ken was running aimlessly, and getting nowhere fast. "I've got to get off this island! Where the hell am I? Doesn't look like I'm anywhere near the airfield!"
Stopping to get his bearings straight, he realized he was near the boat docks. Up ahead was the Kobiachi Maru, it's cargo scattered about like children's toys. There were three men standing beside a container, two with guns, one without. It seemed sort of odd, and as Ken focused on the sight, his stomach twisted into a knot. Clear as day, he could recognize the man who was unarmed. "Aw hell! What is he doing here?"
*************
They reacted quickly, but Joe was ready. With ease, he took down the first guard with a blow to the face, then reached for the second. "Why were you waiting for us?" When no response was given, he tightened his grip around the man's throat. "If you truly know who I am, you know my reputation."
Gasping for air, the guard was persuaded to explain. "The Galactor is not the enemy, you are. You've come to destroy our city, but we won't allow it. We'll take you down one by one and kill you if we have to."
Furious with the comment, Joe knocked the man unconscious, then called to Jinpei. "Let's get the hell out of here. I don't like the looks of this." As he went to rise from the ground, a blow to the back of his head sent him sprawling forward. Rolling over he looked up at Ken; anger flashed in his eyes. "What the hell are you doing here? And why do you always have to disobey orders?"
He probably could have let the attack go unpunished, but since it came from Ken, he decided against it. Rising quickly, he knocked Ken hard to the ground. "There were no orders to obey. You were gone, which left me in charge. I can't help it if you're a coward, and wasn't around when we needed you."
As each exchanged words, they also exchanged blows. "I was doing my job. You were supposed to be restricted to base duty!"
"Your job is to command us, not to go running off to save the day alone. What were you thinking?"
"Hey, at least it didn't take me three days to get here! You'd have been really helpful stuck in that container had something really gone down."
"Well if you were being a commander instead of a crybaby, I wouldn't have been stuck in that container in the first place!"
"That's it, blame me Joe, you bastard!"
"Who else's fault is it 'commander'?"
As they continued to banter back and forth, Jinpei looked off in the distance. Seeing at least thirty men approaching, he interrupted abruptly. "Can we save this for later? We've got company, and they don't look happy to see us."
They turned in the direction Jinpei was pointing, and it was Ken who commented first. "Uh oh, looks like they followed me."
"What do you mean they followed you?"
"I'll explain later. Now is not the time."
"You say that line one more time Ken and I'll kill you!"
"I don't think you're going to get the pleasure."
Watching the men come closer, Jinpei interrupted again. "Will you two stop complaining and start running!"
"Running? I don't think so. I just had a heart attack, remember? I'm gonna go find us a car!"
Ken protested, but as usual, Joe didn't listen. He slowly started lagging behind, then split from the group when the others weren't watching.
************
It wasn't until a few minutes later, when they were hiding out in an old abandoned building, that Ken realized his second in command was missing. "Damn it! Why doesn't he ever listen to me? Every time I turn my back, he's pulling shit like this!"
Jinpei shrugged. "Well, you really haven't been much of a commander lately."
Seething with anger, he glared at the boy and responded sharply. "Shut up! Just shut the hell up! I didn't ask you, did I?" Jinpei had seen Ken angry before, but never had he received that kind of reaction, and it hurt. More than ever he wanted to apologize, but instead, did as he was told. The last thing he wanted was to be yelled at again.
At the sound of voices and heavy footsteps, Ken peered nervously out a side window and cursed. There were at least fifteen men surrounding the building, fully armed and ready to strike. Jinpei's silence didn't last for long. "Aniki, what are they going to do?"
"Kill us Jinpei, or at least, they're going to try."
************
It was easy for Joe to find a car, and even easier for him to hotwire it. It was a 1970's Toyota four door sedan, which definitely showed it's age. It could have been brown, but Joe wasn't sure, since rust covered 90% of its body. Looks didn't matter though; the car just had to run.
Turning it over, he revved the engine and laughed at the lack of response. Though it had power, it didn't have a whole lot, and Joe knew it would not survive the expedition it was about to go on. In the end the engine, and the car itself, would be ready for the scrap yard.
He called to Ken and Jinpei on his transpower band, and got no reply. "Damn! How am I supposed to track them if they don't send me a signal? This is just great!" Feeling a little guilty for taking off on his own, he lowered his head to the steering wheel. "I really don't ever listen to Ken's orders, do I? No wonder he has such a complex."
He signaled again, this time getting a hurried response from Ken. "What?"
"I've got the car, and I'm coming to get you. Where's your location?"
"A lot of good that damned car is going to do us right now Joe. We're about to get ambushed!"
************
As the men opened fire at the building, Ken grabbed Jinpei and threw him to the ground. Glass and plaster exploded from the windows and walls, most of it landing on or near Ken's body. Ignoring the pain from the numerous superficial wounds, he transmitted a homing signal to Joe.
"Aniki, you ok? You're shaking." From underneath he could fell Jinpei squirm and try to rise.
Ken grimaced, then forced a weak reply. "They're not done yet. Stay down." He paused, feeling his breathing becoming more rapid. "Jinpei, I don't expect you to understand, but I am sorry."
"Aniki, this wouldn't be happening if Joe hadn't run off."
"Please don't blame Joe. It's not his fault. You're both right in saying I'm not much of a commander. Not until now anyway." Rising, Ken pulled his gun and started for the door. "Take care of him for me, ok?"
Jinpei cried out in fear, "Wait! Aniki, what are you doing?"
He didn't answer, nor did he hesitate as he cocked the gun and began firing. They fell one by one, but not before getting a few shots off themselves. Jinpei screamed as he watched Ken's body flinch a few times, then collapse to the ground. "Aniki, no!"
He was crying hard when he called to Joe on his transpower band, "Joe? Where are you? Joe!"
"Almost there, from the looks of it. I figure if we can get to the airfield, Ken can…"
"He took them on alone. Hurry Joe, he needs help."
"What? Damn it! I'm on my way Jinpei, just don't let him die on me, ok?"
************
Ken screamed as the pain burned like fire across his body. Near shock, he couldn't fight off the memories that haunted him. They engulfed him, bringing his mind into focus.
He was completely alone; Dr. Nambu's pistol was in his hand. At first he thought he couldn't do it, but then pointing it at himself, he found the courage. Pulling the trigger, he felt his sorrows pass away as his life began to leave him. He was scared, but also at peace. Finally, he could be at peace.
But this time it wouldn't come. The persistent pain continued, until he could no longer take it. The tears were flowing, blinding him, and he screamed again. Through the darkness he could hear his father's voice, and knew he would be safe. "It's ok Ken. I understand, and I know how you feel. Be brave son, and hold on."
************
They were at the airfield, but Joe really didn't know why. There was only one person who could fly them out of Pearl City, and he was slowly dying in the back seat. "Jinpei, ask Ken which plane he came in on. I don't see his here."
Jinpei whispered to Ken, then replied, "The blue and white one. Third from the end."
Joe took a look at the plane and cursed. "That one? It doesn't even resemble the Cessna. How am I supposed to fly it?"
Despite the pain he was in, Ken's reply was sarcastic. "It's generally the same thing Joe. Just imagine yourself driving a Toyota instead of a Nissan."
"Hardly similar Ken, except maybe to you!"
Jinpei reached forward and patted Joe on the shoulder. "Joe, I know you can do it. We're depending on you."
************
In the cockpit, Joe was sweating profusely. There were buttons, switches, and lights everywhere, and he didn't even know how to start the engines. With a childlike voice, he angrily mimicked Ken's words. "It's generally the same thing Joe. Just imagine yourself driving a Toyota instead of a Nissan."
His heart was beating fast from the adrenaline, and though he didn't want to admit it, he was not feeling well. Since running off to find the car, he had experienced moments of blurred vision and disorientation, loss of feeling in his arms and legs, and shortness of breath. Doctor Nambu had warned him of these problems beforehand, and had told him not to overexert himself. As usual, he didn't listen, and now, as the stress on his heart continued, he was being reminded.
Blinking a few times and shaking his head, he tried to clear the fog. As the panic grew stronger, he was almost hyperventilating. "Damn it, not now!" The visions were coming again, memories of the guards that were killed at ISO. They were all innocent, with family who loved them, and in less than eight hours, Joe had destroyed them all. He had left wives grieving for their husbands, and children who would grow up without fathers. It was just like the people of Pearl City. They too were innocent, and many had died needlessly.
Using what little strength he could muster, he moved towards the doorway calling Jinpei's name. He knew the kid was having trouble dealing with Ken, and his condition would only make matters worse.
Jinpei immediately grew concerned; Joe's features were ashen, tears were forming in his eyes, and his body was trembling. "Joe? You ok? What is it?"
Sinking to his knees, he swallowed hard and took a deep breath. "I…I can't fly the plane. I'm…sorry."
Kneeling down, Jinpei squeezed his older brother's arm for reassurance. "You'll be ok. We'll find some way to get out of this." He didn't understand what was happening, but could tell by Joe's reactions that it was pretty serious.
Joe nodded and closed his eyes. He was sweating harder as the attack continued, and felt his consciousness begin to ebb away. "I want you to know, though this whole mission seems to be falling apart, it's one of the best I've been on. I've missed out on a lot not knowing you."
"Joe Aniki, you're not going to die are you?"
He smiled, trying hard to look convincing. "No Jinpei, of course not. How's Ken?"
"The same. He keeps drifting in and out of consciousness, but I did what you said. I covered him with blankets, and kept talking to him."
"Good. Now go take care of him for me, ok? And don't mention my condition. Just tell him I'm fine."
"But, he told me to take care of you! Please come back with me Joe."
"No, I can't. I don't want him to see me like this. The first time was bad enough."
Jinpei was confused, but complied. "Ok, but be sure to call me if you need anything. I won't let anything happen to you, or Aniki."
"I know kid." He raised his hand and ruffled Jinpei's hair. "And I can't think of anyone better to get us through this."
************
From the airplane window, Jinpei could see the men approaching, and a feeling of dread came over him. This time, there was no escape; they were out for blood, and soon they would get it. Looking down at his transpower band, he thought of Jun and Ryu. Losing one of the team would hurt, but losing three of them would be devastating. He knew Jun would never forgive him, and wished more than ever to hear her voice. "Jun?"
There was no response, and he sighed. "Knew I wouldn't get a reply." He went to Ken, who was once again muttering incoherently, and tried to comfort him. "It'll all be over soon Aniki, and we'll all be together again." His gaze returned to the transpower band, and he began sobbing. "Ryu, Jun, I'm sorry. I didn't want it to end like this."
Ryu's voice nearly took his breath away. "Like what? Jinpei, where are you? Jun and I are above the island in the Phoenix. You guys ok?"
Completely stunned, he could barely force out a reply. "Onechan, Ryu, are you really here with the Phoenix?"
Jun's tone was angry, yet with understanding. "You three go running off on your own, and we don't hear from you for three days. What did you expect us to do?"
"I'm sorry. We're at the airfield. Just look for all the armed men. I'm going to need help getting the others on the ship. Aniki's hurt bad, and Joe's not doing so good either."
"I read you Jinpei. Looks like you guys are pretty popular. Mind if I crash the party?"
"No! Be my guest."
As the Phoenix made a low pass over the airfield, most dropped their guns and ran for cover. A brave and relentless few remained, but were quickly taken down by the ship's powerful jet engines. Ryu was amused by the scattering men, and couldn't help but laugh. "Hey Jun, mind taking over the controls while I go retrieve our MIA's?"
"Sure, I'll do my best."
"It'll be easy. Just stay hovering, and I'll do the rest."
Using the hydraulic lift platform on the Phoenix's underside, Ryu dropped down to the hatch of the awaiting airplane. He called to Jinpei, who appeared suddenly and gave him a big hug. "Am I glad to see you! Joe's in the front. I'll go get him. You'll need to carry Aniki. He's pretty bad off."
Splitting up, Jinpei went to the cockpit to retrieve Joe; He was relieved to find him still conscious. "Joe Aniki, get up! Onechan and Ryu are here with the Phoenix. They came for us!"
"Huh? What'd you just say?"
Grabbing at Joe's arm, he pulled him to his feet. "Come on!"
Joe took an unsteady step before clutching on to Jinpei for support, nearly toppling both over. "Hold on there kid. It's gonna have to be slow going."
"Sorry Joe. I just want to get out of here!"
"Me too."
They made their way to the hydraulic lift where Ryu was waiting, holding Ken's limp body. He had expected some type of sarcastic remark from Joe, but there was none. Instead, he extended his hand in gratitude. "Thanks for coming. I owe you one."
Ryu nodded in appreciation, then signaled to Jun. "Ok, we're all present. Now let's get the hell out of here!"
He looked at Joe, who smiled. "Couldn't have said it better myself."
************
At the ISO hospital, the mood was heavy with anticipation. Ken had quickly been rushed to surgery, and the doctors were unsure about his chance for survival. There had been a lot of blood loss, plus numerous internal injuries and internal bleeding. They had tried to sound hopeful, but the situation did not look good.
Joe, against his will, had been placed back in the cardiac ward, where he was once again restrained and sedated. It was imperative to relieve the stress on his heart, and though the medications made him drowsy, he refused to sleep. Doctor Nambu stayed with him, to try to ease the tension.
"Ken's got a strong will. He'll be just fine."
"Hakase, I need to be with him. You have to let me in recovery when the surgery is over. Please."
"You just need to relax Joe. You put yourself through too much too quickly."
"I can't relax! I saw Ken's condition, and I know it's not good. You have to let me in there with him, in case…" He choked back the rest of the sentence, feeling his emotions take over. Doctor Nambu sympathetically placed his hand on Joe's shoulder, as his own eyes began glistening with tears. "Joe, you can't change what happened."
"But I can try to change what happens next. Ken shouldn't have been put in the situation he was in. I should have been there beside him, but I disobeyed his orders and ran off on my own. Jinpei told me he thought we didn't think he was a good commander, that he had to prove himself worthy. That's why he took on those men like he did."
"Joe…"
"You knew it didn't you? That he was having problems leading. Why didn't you tell us? We could have done something!"
"It's been going on for years, and I thought he'd be able to work it out. You can be upset with me, or you can blame me, but it isn't my fault. It isn't your fault either. It's Ken's, because he chose to ignore it instead of confronting it."
"Which is why I need to be there when he gets out of surgery. He needs to know we're still here for him."
Nambu sighed, removed his glasses and wiped his eyes. "I know you're right Joe. Rest now, and when Ken's out of surgery, I'll come back to get you. You have to pull him through his. You're the only one who can."
************
There wasn't a dry eye in the room as the surgeon explained Ken's condition. "We pulled four bullets from him, and there were at least two others that went straight through. He had massive blood loss from the wounds, plus from the internal and external injuries. The surgery was successful, but it's his condition now that concerns me. He hasn't come out of the anaesthetic, and he's not responding to any of our treatments. I'm afraid he's succumbed to shock and gone into a coma."
Though the others understood the severity of the situation, Jinpei did not. "It isn't that bad is it? He's going to be ok, right?"
"I'd like to answer that for you, but I don't know. He may regain consciousness in a few hours, or it may take a few days."
Ryu looked towards the ground and muttered. "Or a few years."
"A few years?!"
Doctor Nambu abruptly interjected. "Let's not lose our faith. We all know Ken is strong, and he's going to pull through this." He paused before continuing; the last thing he wanted to do was bring up Pearl City again, but he knew he had to. "I know this is not a good time, but Director Anderson has asked me to send you out."
Ryu was the first to question. "Send us out? Where?"
"To Pearl City. I'm afraid the news isn't good. A fishing trawler off the shores of San Marie came across a body floating in the water; the cause of death was from a single bullet wound to the head. Further searching revealed twenty more bodies, all in similar condition. All of the victims resided in Pearl City.
"So if the islanders are dead, who attacked Ken, Joe, and Jinpei?"
"Galactor agents. Their plan was simple actually, and would have worked, had they been more careful. Develop a group of islanders whom, though being taken over by the Galactor, and happy and supportive. People would eventually start thinking Berg Katse isn't all that bad, and use Pearl City as an example. This in turn would convince others to believe the ISO is wrong in their assumptions about the Galactor. More and more people would then support Galactor's cause, making us look like the true enemy for trying to destroy them."
Jimpei shook his head stubbornly and crossed his arms. "I'm not going back! And how are we supposed to go on a mission without Aniki and Joe?"
"It's not a mission as such. They will not be expecting you to come, and all you'll have to do is fire a few missiles and return home. Red Impulse will be beside you all the way."
"But we've got more important things happening here. I won't go!"
This time it was Jun who disagreed. "As your temporary commander, I order you to go. We can't change what is going on here, but we can change what is going on at that island. You wouldn't expect Ken to sit this out would you?"
Ryu and Jinpei's spirits began to lift. "No, he'd go out fighting."
"Right, so let's get going! Red Impulse is ready, and we don't want to keep them waiting! We've got an island to destroy, for Ken!"
************
As predicted, the Galactor never knew the attack on Pearl City was coming, and they weren't prepared. Jinpei took the pleasure of firing the missiles for Joe. "This one's for you Joe, and for Aniki too!" Smiling wickedly, he depressed the button, taking out a number of guards below.
Jun looked disapprovingly at him. "Is this something Joe taught you? That it's fun to kill people?"
"It is the Galactor Onechan. Joe said it's always fun to kill the enemy."
"They're still people, Jinpei."
He shrugged. "Well that's not what Joe called them."
"Really? And what did Joe call them?"
Hearing the curse words from Jinpei's mouth, her cheeks flushed in anger. "I never want to hear those words from your mouth again, young man. Understand?"
"Well you asked me what he called them!"
She shook her head and looked at Ryu. "Didn't I say this would happen?"
Ryu nodded in agreement, knowing it was in his best interest to keep quiet. A few minutes passed without incident before Jinpei started again. "Onechan, are you gonna ask Joe out?"
"No, was I supposed to?"
"Yea. I told him I'd really like to have a little brother, and he told me to ask you about it when we got back."
She didn't want to ask the question, because she was afraid of the answer. "What does asking Joe out have to do with a little brother?"
"Come on Onechan, I know all about it. Joe told me Aniki loves you, but he doesn't want to go out with you because he doesn't want to make a baby. Joe said he'd like to though."
"WHAT!"
He noted the tone of her voice and her expression, and gulped. "Uh oh. You don't want to make a little brother with him? Onechan, I really want a brother, honest! I'll even do extra duties at the Snack J."
She threw her hands in the air and screamed, completely outraged. "I'm going to KILL him!" Ryu couldn't help but laugh, and was quickly reprimanded. "Do you think this is funny Ryu?"
"Actually, I do. I'm sure Joe didn't mean for Jinpei to interpret it this way."
"It's not funny! Already he knows at least ten new curse words, and now he wants a little brother! What's next!"
"Go easy on him Jun. Remember, he's supposed to be recovering from a heart attack."
"Oh I will Ryu, but he'd better not be anywhere near me when he gets out!"
************
The days passed slowly. Per Joe's request, he was moved into Ken's room, where he constantly stood watch over his friend. He refused to leave under any circumstances, and turned down most meals and sleep. When exhaustion did come, he didn't lie down, but drowsed in the chair beside Ken with his head propped against the wall. Though no one said anything, there was obvious concern. He was starting to look disheveled, and his own health seemed to be deteriorating. The concerned party, mainly Nambu and the nursing staff, knew it would do no good to act upon it; Joe was not one to back down.
In the beginning it wasn't too difficult, but seeing Ken day in and day out, completely unresponsive, was beginning to take its toll. He went through the usual routine, talking about the day, the weather, the others. Since he hadn't left the hospital room, it was getting harder to find things to talk about.
"Hey Ken, it's day number twenty and I really have to admit, I'm getting worn out. The ISO Council asked Hakase to hire a "temporary" commander, seeing that you're out of commission for a while. He asked me what I thought about the idea, which was stupid. I gave up my transpower band and said if we get a new commander, I resign. Hakase told me to be more understanding, but I told him I don't take orders from anyone except you, and I won't work under anyone except you. He thought I was going to the extreme, but then he asked the others and they did the same."
He took Ken's hand and squeezed tightly. The tears were coming again, as they had before, and he wiped them away. "Why couldn't you come to me Ken? Why'd you have to run off and play the hero? We need you. Gatchaman is more than just a team, it's a family, and we work together, or not at all. I used to not understand that, but now I do. I have so much more to live for, and so do you."
As he talked, his eyes and opened and closed drowsily. The fatigue was beginning to take over, and he laid his head against the wall. "I'm tired Ken, so tired. I wish all of this could end right now." Silently he said a prayer, then whispered, "Good night, and dream in peace."
************
Endless visions of blood, and death haunted him, and his heart felt like exploding from the agony.
He could see Joe and wanted to call out to him, but couldn't find his voice. In desperation he rose, screaming as the pain ripped across his body. "Oh God, the pain! It hurts, Joe, help me!"
He felt someone pressing against his shoulders; they eased him back down to the bed. "Ken, it's ok. Everything will be all right now. I'm here."
"I don't want to die Joe. I don't…"
"It's ok. You're not going to. The doctors saved your life. It's over now. You're fine."
"But it hurts. Why does it hurt so bad?"
Uncustomary for Joe, he wrapped his arms around Ken's body and held him tightly. "Well, for starters, they took four bullets out of you, not to mention the other patchwork they had to do. You had us all worried."
Ken was surprised by Joe's appearance; dark rings surrounded his eyes, and he looked pale and weak. "How long were you here again? You look like hell!"
"As long as you've been in a coma, three weeks. And thanks for the compliment."
"Why'd you stay so long?"
"Because that's what friends do, and I wanted to be here when you came to. I wanted to tell you I was sorry for running off to get the car. If I hadn't, I would have been there…"
"When I did what I would have done anyway."
"Huh?"
"I'd have taken on those guys anyway, whether you were there or not. Actually, if you had been there, they probably would have shot you up too. Then you couldn't have come by and saved my life again."
"Again? When was the first time?"
"Ten years ago, when we first met at the hospital."
"The hospital? You HATED me!"
"No, I hated myself. You were just annoying. Some things never change."
"Excuse me?"
"Guess I finally need to fess up, huh?"
"All this may not have happened had you done it a lot sooner."
"Oh, it would've." Ken sighed and ran his fingers through his hair. "Ok…Age seven, father is gone, I'm a complete emotional wreck. What's the point in living right? An easy way to end it all would have been to just kill myself."
"Or so you thought."
"I did more than just think it Joe, I almost did it. I stole one of Hakase's guns and shot myself. Thought I was gone for sure, but shit, I couldn't even do that right!"
"Good thing."
He appreciated the sentiment, but didn't comment on it. "I was so angry at the doctors for bringing me back, I got even worse. It got to the point where no one could handle my self-destructive behavior, not even Hakase. He had no choice but to have me institutionalized."
"Oh, so that explains it! When do I come in?"
"Now. Hakase told me all about what happened to you and he said I should try to help you. I refused, but he insisted, and practically dragged me to your room. The minute I saw you I hated you, and wanted absolutely no part of your life. I kept thinking ' So you lost your mother and father, and almost died yourself. Who cares?' I certainly didn't."
"The feelings were mutual, my friend."
"I'm sure they were. Anyway, after being with you for a while, I began to realize you and I weren't all that different, except that you were still fighting, and I had already given up. It was then, though you weren't even aware of it, that you changed my life. I figured if you could fight, so could I. You gave me a reason to want to live."
Joe shook his head, puzzled. "And you could never tell me this? It might have saved me a lot of self-pity and hatred!"
"I tried, while you were in cardiac arrest. I wanted to return the favor, but didn't know how. I was ashamed of what I had done, and thought you would respect me less as a commander. It showed a weakness in me, one I still have now."
"We respected you less because you ran away and backed down from your duty as commander. People just don't resign without a damn good reason, and you didn't have one. We figured you were just being an…."
"Immature coward? I was, and I know that now. God I wish I could've found out sooner, so I could change what happened."
"Jinpei told me you took on that group at Pearl City because you had to prove yourself a worthy commander. You earned our respect a long time ago Ken. The only person you had to prove worthy to was yourself. Have you done that?"
Ken smiled appreciatively. "Yea Joe, I think I have. It's time to start over again, and it's good to know I have a fellow Washio beside me."
"A what?"
"My brother. You know him. Georgio Asakurai, Joseph Asakura…Washio."
"Ken, what the hell are you talking about?"
"I had this vision after I got shot. Father told me everything. He told me about the affair, why he had to leave me, how he really felt, everything."
"You saw it too?"
"Too? When did you…?"
"The first time I went into cardiac arrest. My parents were there, and so was your father. He told me the same thing. Hakase said I hallucinated it all, but I thought for sure it was real."
"Well, I guess that confirms it huh? We really are brothers."
"Doesn't make us much different than before."
"Yea, I know, but at least I know now where your insanity came from."
They laughed a while, then looked at each other. "Joe? Isn't it strange how revelations occur? We both had to practically die to figure out ourselves, and each other."
"What can I say? We go to the extreme."
"Yes Joe, you're absolutely right. It's what we do best."