Hello, here's the next one, enjoy.

Disclaimer: RahXephon and its characters are the rightful property of their respective owners.  This piece is not for profitable purposes.

Chapter 3: -4, 11:30

Alone, I drink a canned coffee in the lounge area I commonly visit with Elvy.  She and her squadron are in intense practice, their role key to the success of the opearation.  Wanting to be equally committed, I run through the preparations once more in my mind; I most certainly do not want to let this precious chance slip through my fingers because of carelessness.  As I take another sip, I resolve to look through all the relevant files on my computer today and into this evening and night if necessary. 

"Haruka-san."

Startled, I shift so that I am looking in the direction of the voice.  I smile as I realize who it is.

"Yagumo-kun."

He moves nearer to the seats but remains standing. 

"It's nice weather we're having, I'm hoping it continues."

"I hope so as well."

He steps closer and, in a more serious tone, says, "I've heard from the commander about your role in Operation Overlord.  I apologize that I haven't had the opportunity to speak with you about it earlier."

I wave my free hand in the air as I answer, "Don't worry about it, Yagumo-kun.  The second-in-command has a lot to think about, and I've had briefings with the commander."

He smiles slightly, but then looks away quietly for a few moments before looking back at me and speaking again.

"It's a very important – and dangerous – role that you've accepted, Haruka-san."

"There are risks, but I'm ready and willing to do this."

"What you say is true, despite what we may face, the world has entrusted us with an important mission.  We owe it to all to try our very best."

I nod my head yes in response but remain silent, thinking of my own goal.

"I'm sure that you'll succeed, Haruka-san."

"I appreciate your confidence, Yagumo-kun.  I know that you and the commander will lead this to success."

"Thank you."

Our conversation is interrupted as his name is called over the pager system.

We part, and, cradling the can in my hands, I return to drinking my coffee, and my earlier thoughts.

I glance out the window as the teacher drones on about Japanese history.  History – I sadden as I realize that learning things like this are meaningless, now that only the residents of Tokyo remain, living only in the present.  My thoughts are interrupted as I feel my stomach growl.  I smile slightly at the irony.  It seems that I, too, am more concerned about the present.  I look to the clock, and notice that it is almost time for lunch. 

I return my attention to the lecture until I hear the teacher say, "You are excused."

After standing and bowing at the command of the class representative, I look to Mamoru and then Asahina. 

Mamoru places his arm across Asahina's shoulders and then looks to me as he says, "Time for lunch."

I nod my head yes as I pick up my briefcase and take out my lunch.  Mamoru moves his arm away and they separate to get their own lunches.  Together, we walk to the cafeteria. 

As we sit down, Asahina opens her lunch and begins to eat.

I am about to follow suit when Mamoru says, "How's that painting of yours coming, Ayato?"

"It's almost done.  I plan on finishing it tonight."

Asahina looks at me with an exasperated expression and says, "You should be studying tonight, Kamina-kun!"

Before I can respond, Mamoru laughs and looks to Asahina as he says, "Give the guy a break, Hiroko, we've been studying for the exam for ever."

Asahina pouts as she looks to Mamoru and says, "Sheesh, I was just trying to help."

Mamoru grins mischievously at her, and, after glaring at him for a moment, Asahina breaks into a smile.

Mamoru then turns his face towards me and says, "Who is that girl anyway?"

I am surprised by his question.  Who is she?  I have no idea how, but I painted it so easily, as if I had witnessed the scene before, its image mysteriously engrained in my memory.

Unsure how to answer, I say, "I – I don't know, actually."

"Hmm," Mamoru answers.

He grins and continues, "Probably your ideal girlfriend."

Embarrassed, I want to respond, but I find myself unable to do so.  Is it possible that what he says is true?

"Looks like I was right," Mamoru answers with a chuckle.