Super Robot Wars Alpha Clash: Book 1

A Super Robot Wars Fan Fiction Series by Ryoga316

Greetings. This fan fiction is based on the popular Japanese video game, Super Robot Wars. This is my first attempt on doing a fan fiction series, so I apologize if this one is not as good as it is expected. Before you proceed to the story proper, please read the Copyright Notice below:

COPYRIGHT NOTICE:

The following is entirely a fan fiction story of Super Robot Wars and is not in any way related to the actual Super Robot Wars story. Any reference or inference to any other copyrighted work is used for the same purpose. Super Robot Wars and its characters are copyright Banpresto and their respective owners. The original characters used in this fan fiction are copyright Ryoga316. Daiken Crow and Axel Hawkins are property of Rurounin Mao and used with permission. Comments and suggestions are welcomed via e-mail at kaiser_reinhardt@yahoo.com.

NOTES: This is a revised version of the original fanfic. If you wish to view the fanfic in its original format, you may request it via my e-mail and I would be happy to send it to you.

------------

------------

Chapter 4:

"The Blue Lotus; Strike of the Wind Shadow"

------------

Part 1

PERSONAL LOG No. 1 (Date: 3rd of May, New Western Calendar 187):

Since I was appointed Test Pilot of the Grungust Type II, I was automatically taken in also as a crewmember of the battleship White Base Kai. For this, it is customary that I record the events that happened me in this Logbook Computer (or 'LogCom' for short) given to me by the crew's Medical Officer, Ms. Naomi Walters (who happens to be one foxy woman, hehe!). Personally, I have mixed feelings on being here at the White Base Kai. On one part, it's a great honor to be inside a legendary battleship (even though this is merely a replica of the original) and being with heroes of legend like Mazinger Z and its pilot Koji Kabuto, and the Getter Robo team. On the other, I am very much saddened because I replaced Lieutenant Daiken Crow as Grungust Nishiki pilot and he is to train me once we reach our destination, the Japanese Army's Far East Base. He wasn't very happy about it. But there's nothing I can do about it as it is the order of the Captain. Nonetheless, life here in the White Base Kai goes on...

It was around 8:30 in the morning when the alarm on my Timec Wristwatch went off. By hearing the sound of my alarm, I opened my eyes and got up from the sofa I'm sleeping on inside Naomi-san's room. Then I noticed Naomi-san's not around. Her bed is well fixed and her night robe was hanging on her closet door. It's pretty much obvious she got up before me to do her duty work. I also noticed that on her bed, she left a white T-shirt, blue pants, men's underwear, a pair of socks, sneakers, and a brown leather jacket. Beside all of these was a note, which reads:

"Please take off your clothes and wear these."

Well, since I've been wearing my Ryo-baka Hiccup-biki costume for days now, it does begin to smell. So, I took all of them off, had a nice warm shower, and wore the clothes Naomi-san left on her bed. All set, my first order of business for today was to get something to eat. One problem: I have no idea where the Mess Hall is! So I decided to head for the bridge and ask for directions on how to get there. When I entered the bridge, Captain Mao wasn't around. As a matter of fact, no one is inside the bridge except one cute girl standing in the middle of the room looking around and writing something on her clipboard. She wears a pink button shirt covered by her blue jacket, and a beige skirt covering her thighs and wears red high heels. She had red hair that stretches down her cheek and black eyelids and a short nose. The design on her face suggests she is Asian. Her physical figure is well built, though her bust size wasn't as big as Naomi-san's. Then, she noticed me.

"Oh, hello! Good morning!" she greeted.

"Um...hello. Ohayou." I replied.

"Ohayou? That Japanese word for 'good morning'?"

"Err...yes."

"Wah! Me learn some Japanese!" she said in excitement. "OH-HI-YOU!"

"Um...that's 'O-ha-yo-u'."

"Ah! 'O-ha-yo-u'! Sung will remember that!"

"Sung?"

"Mm!" she nodded. "Sung You-Mi is my name!"

"Sung You-Mi...that sounds like a Korean name."

"Mm! Mm!" she nodded. "Me from Korea! But me can't speak English well. Me still learning."

So that explains her way of talking, I thought.

"You! You! What name is you?"

"Ryo. Ryo Kazehino."

"Ah! You new Grungust pilot! Naomi talked you lots!"

"Naomi...do you mean Naomi-san?"

"Yes! Yes! She talked lots of you!"

"Where is she by the way?"

"She may eat Mess Hall now."

"The Mess Hall? How can I get there?"

"Take elevator and go to level 3! Go straight and you find Mess Hall!"

"Alright. Many thanks. Um, before I leave, can I ask you a question?"

"Sure! Sung will answer? What question you ask?"

"Why is it no one is in this room? Shouldn't someone look after the controls?"

"Ah! Everyone in Mess Hall to eat! Controls here on Autopilot. Ryo need not worry! We reach destination in few hours."

"A few hours? How come that long? Shouldn't we be there in just a few minutes?"

"Yes. Ship can get there in minutes, but ship's engine's somehow damaged and sounds louder lots than Airbus engine and can hurt people's ears, so we move at minimum speed. Yoshi engine repair can not. Only in base she can."

"I see. Thanks again, Sung. I'll be on my way now."

"Me see you soon!" she smiled.

"Sure."

Then, I left the bridge and head for the elevator as Sung directed. When I arrived at the door, I hit the up button and waited a bit. When the door opened, I was surprised to see that Lt. Crow was inside. As I looked at him speechless, I can see the serious look on his face as he simply walked pass by me. After he walked a few more steps away from me, I was able to pull myself together and called out his name. He then came to a halt and there was complete silence for the moment.

"Lieutenant...I..."

"Say no more." He interrupted. "The Captain has made her decision. There's nothing either of us can do about it."

"Lieutenant..."

"We will arrive at the Far East Base by noon. As soon we get there, your training will begin. So enjoy yourself while you can. I won't be easy on you once training begins. Is that understood?"

"Yes sir." I nodded. And then he continued on his way. After that, I entered the elevator and gave the voice command to take me to the 3rd level.

When I reached the 3rd level, I headed straight and found the Mess Hall. Just as Sung said, Captain Mao and the rest of the crew were inside taking their breakfast. As I look at them from the entrance/exit door, I noticed all of them are eating nothing but Instant Noodles.

"RYO!" Naomi-san called. She then left her table and approached me.

"Naomi-san."

"Have you slept well?"

"Yes I did. Thanks." I answered. Then she suddenly stared at the clothes I'm wearing and I can see a really big smile on her face.

"I knew it!" she said in excitement. "Those clothes do fit you just right!" Then she placed both her hands on my shoulders. "You know, you're so gorgeous I'm going to..."

All of a sudden, the entire Mess Hall has gone silent, with the exception of two people still eating their ramen. They're none other than the Captain herself and Lieutenant Irmgardt. I started sweating a bit upon the sudden change of atmosphere. I also noticed that Irmgardt and I are the only males present in the Mess Hall.

"Er...I mean I'm going to help you get your breakfast! Is that ok with you, Ryo?"

"Um...sure, I guess."

And upon my reply, the noise of the Mess Hall resumed as Naomi and I headed at the far left side of the room where the self-service food corner is located. I can see from the kitchen from the other side of the food corner and, judging by the huge flow of dust and spider webs, it hasn't been used for quite some time.

"Well, here we are. What would you like to eat, Ryo?" Naomi asked me. Actually, I almost lost my appetite upon seeing all the instant noodles on the table. The only other type of food I see is a large pack of Oatmeal Cookies. I decided to take that instead.

After choosing the food that I'll be eating for the rest of the day, she directed me to two large vending machines where I can choose my choice of drink. The white one simply contains water and I have the option to go for hot or cold. You also get the water for free, so you don't have to insert coins to get some. The water there is about half full though, which may have resulted from almost everyone going for the instant noodles. The black one, fortunately, has some selective drinks like coffee, milk, tea, juice, and soda. The downside though is you have to insert a ¥100 coin to get one. Luckily, I still have some money I saved from the Convention (about ¥3000) and decided to go for milk. But instead of the milk, I received a strange orange can.

"Wow! I can't believe it! You've won!" Naomi said in disbelief, then shouts at everyone. "Hey everybody! Ryo's won a can!"

Then suddenly everyone jumped off their seats and ran towards me to take a closer look at the can.

"Wha...what's going on?" I asked Naomi-san as I get a bit nervous with all the people around me.

"Didn't you know? If you happen to win the can, you get a chance to win a large sum of money!"

"Really?"

"Yep! It's a promo made from the Hello-C Co, the leader in canned drinks. Their new drink beat both Cook Cola and Pepper-si."

"But winning the can alone is like winning the lottery!" said one of the crew.

"Yeah. The company really send very few of these on vending machines!" said another. "Be ever so lucky that ours have one."

"Well! Now that you've chosen your choice of food and drink, why not I take you back to your room?" said Naomi-san and she suddenly grabbed my arm and dragged me off outside the Mess Hall.

Moments later, I had about half a dozen of the cookies and the orange can drink at Naomi-san's room. Naomi-san, in the meantime, is waiting outside her room. For what reason, I have no idea. Upon finishing my breakfast, I went outside and told Naomi-san I'll have a look around the ship. She wanted to give me a tour of a place but she received a call asking for assistance in Sick Bay. So I'm pretty much on my own. I've decided that the first place to visit was the hangar, where the Grungust Nishiki and the rest of the mechas are.

------------

Part 2

At around 10 am, I arrived at the hangar. There, I see the Grungust Nishiki standing next to the other mechs. To its right are the Mazinger Z, Getter Robo, and Grendizer (who has the same body design as Mazinger, only a little taller and a different design on the chest (a small, V-shaped red plate with metal crescent blades stretching over the shoulders) and head (having two pairs of yellow horns extended and shaped like wings and the mouth being the cockpit)). To its left, I can see the Gespensts of Lieutenants Irmgardt and Daiken (who are named Units A and B, respectively) and the Hückebein EX, Captain Mao's robot. The Hückebein EX is an amazing looking robot as the designs are almost the same as the Gundam itself (the overall design is like that of a Samurai's armor. The face is somewhat masked in appearance with a red object located below the chin that many might think it is its 'beard'. From what I've heard the 'beard' functions as a radio transmitter for communication if not additional radar other than the V-shaped antennae located above the forehead). The difference is that unlike the Gundam, which has a mix of blue, red, and white colors, the Hückebein EX is colored brown. It is also appeared to be slightly less armored than the Gespenst units, with the exception of the head. Two long brown and yellow 'ears' looks much like additional radar to me, probably to scan something other than enemy units. Wings and boosters are attached to its back. But unlike the Gespenst's whose wings are like that of a fighter plane, the smaller, metal wings of the Hückebein EX are a bit like that of a bird's. From that standpoint, this robot may not be able to stay airborne for long.

Standing behind them are the Bossborot, Texas Mac, Aphrodi A, Grendizer's 3 Spacers (the white and red colored Double Spacer, having the appearance of a bird with thin metal wings and saucer plates attached at the edges that look like weapons; the blue Drill Spacer, looking like a tank with large twin drills at the front; and the Marine Spacer, which is an orange craft made for underwater use) in addition the Lady Commando, and the TFO. As I looked at these mechs in amazement...

"Oi!" someone shouted. I turned and see Koji-san as he approached me.

"Koji-san..."

"Hey there, Ryo-kun. How's it going?"

"I'm fine. How about you?"

"Same here. Just checking how Mazinger Z is doing. From the looks of it, he's doing all right."

"He?"

"Mazinger Z! It simply isn't right to call it an 'it'."

"Well..."

"Besides, it's a 'male' anyway. The Aphrodi A, after all, is 'female', though she doesn't a very nice body figure. Too slim. Flat-chested. And oh, so, ugly! Just like Sayaka-san!"

Then suddenly, Sayaka-san came up behind Koji and gave him a headlock.

"Now WHO are you calling 'ugly', Koji-kun!?!" she asked as Koji grasps for air, then releases him afterwards.

"Geez! Sayaka-san! Can't you take a joke!?!" he said.

"That doesn't sound like a joke to me!"

The two continued quarreling on one another and eventually, into a slugfest. I simply stayed out of the way.

"Sigh. Those two will never change." someone said behind me. I turned and it was the Getter Team.

"Ryoma-san. Hayato-san. Musashi-san."

"You must be Kazehino. Please to meet you." Ryoma-san said as he offers his hand.

"Thank you. It's a great honor that I get to meet the pilots of Getter Robo in person." I replied as I shake Ryoma-san's hand. But before I could do that, the feeling came to me and then suddenly, Ryoma-san's hand turned into a fist and as quick as lightning, reaches for my face when I successfully pushed it away with my hand. He followed with his other and I followed with mine. We both continue doing this until one point I blocked his punch and he suddenly grabbed my wrist. When he's about to punch me with his other fist, I blocked it and grabbed his own wrist. The result is a stalemate and we both pushed each other away. I kept my guard up, but he lowered his and started laughing.

"That was very good coming from you, Kazehino!" he said. "Tell me, what's your style?"

I remained quiet and continued to keep my guard up, thinking that he may be bluffing.

"Relax, Kazehino. I was only testing your skill after seeing what you've done yesterday. You have my word as a Martial Artist that I won't be pulling any more tricks on you."

From the way he says it, he seems to be telling the truth, so I decided to lower my guard. "Well, if you must know, I came from the Hazama-ryu dojo in Yokosuka."

"Hazama?" Ryoma-san looked surprised. "You mean from Daigoro Hazama?"

"Yes…but, how did you know my Master's name?"

"Your master and my old man have known each other way back. During the Martial Arts Tournaments, the two have one of the fiercest rivalries in competition, but outside, they were very close friends."

"So you're…"

"I'm the head of the Nagare-ryu Dojo." He then offers his hand to me one more time. "This is a great honor to meet a disciple of the Hazama-ryu."

At first, I don't want to shake his hand, but given his sincerity to me, I accepted it.

"But…I'm surprised," he said. "From what I've heard, Master Hazama had no disciples after he passed away 7 years ago. Even his children didn't make it…"

I sort of kept quiet and lowered my head, thinking about that very day I want to forget…

"Sorry," he said. "I didn't realize how hard it was for you."

"Nah, don't worry about it." I replied.

"By the way,..." Musashi-san interrupted, as though trying to change the subject. "Is it true that the convention in Hokkaido is paying tribute to Getter Robo?"

"Yes," I answered to him. "…alongside the Gundam and Mazinger Z."

"Hehe! Guess my name will be forever immortalized, eh?" He bragged. "I bet the girls are drooling all over me right now!"

"Hmph! I doubt ANY girl would fall for you." Hayato-san grumbled.

"Hey! That's mighty low, Hayato!"

"Kidding! Kidding! I'm sure there will be girls who would drool at you."

Somehow, I had the faintest idea what Hayato-san was talking about.

"Um, excuse me..."

"What is it, Kazehino-kun?" Hayato-san asked.

"Well, I was wondering, although I've heard a lot about you all on TV and at school, I'd like to know more about how did the three of you get together as pilots of Getter Robo. I also like to know about Getter Robo itself as well as these beings called 'Mechasauruses'."

"Sure!" Ryoma-san replied. "We'd be happy to tell you all about it!"

And there, I learned more of the history behind Getter Robo...

It all began sometime before the One-Year War took place. Professor Saotome, a former member of the Earth Federation's Special Research Team, discovered an unknown energy source, which said to have been extracted from direct sunlight (though this is yet to be confirmed by Professor Saotome himself). During those times, there was a huge race for many scientists around the world in designing a new energy source that would replace the Nuclear Fusion Reactors. He then decided to experiment this new energy source on a robot, which he was building at that time. The result is that the robot was fueled with so much of the energy, it moved by itself as though it was almost alive. Furthermore, the experimental robot, which only has its skeletal body at that time, is then covered with metal flesh released by the energy source. It is also discovered that this metal flesh can be easily molded into several different forms. Knowing the potential of this energy source, Professor Saotome decided to finish the creation of his robot with the energy source installed, which he now calls it as 'Getter'. And thus, Getter Robo was born.

Unlike the Mobile Suits developed by the Zeons and the Federation, Getter Robo has the ability to separate itself into 3 jet fighters known as the Getter Machines. The Getter Machines have the unique ability to combine into three different Getter Robos. Each one has a special ability in combat. Getter 1, the original Getter Robo form, has the ability to fight its adversaries in the air. Getter 2 is the fastest of the three and can fight above or below the earth's surface. Getter 3 is of pure strength and specializes in sea combat.

During the events of the One-Year War, after the Zeon's Loum Campaign, which made them occupy about approximately 90% of the Earth and it's colonies, the Mechasauruses ('Mechasaurs' for short), giant robots with some of its parts and flesh having that of a dinosaur, hence its name, emerged and launched an attack on Japan. From what I've been told by the Getter Team, the Mechasaurs belong to the Kyoryû (which we call in our tongue as it means 'Dinosaur') Empire, an ancient civilization that once ruled the world during the Prehistoric Age. The Kyoryû Empire managed to survive the First Impact (the event where a giant object, possibly a comet or a meteorite, crashed into Earth, which wiped out the dinosaurs) by burrowing deep within the Earth's surface. There, they remained underground for millions of years until during the first week of the One-Year War, when an abandoned colony was dropped on the southern part of Australia, which resulted to loss of human life on a massive scale. (That event is known today as the 'Second Impact')

Since the Gundam has not yet been built at that time, and that the conventional vehicles of the Federation are no match for the Mechasaurs, the Federation asked Professor Saotome to fight off the invaders in Japan. But there is a problem: Getter Robo's full power is released when all three individuals pilot it (which probably is meant by one part of the famous poem about Getter Robo "Hearts of Three combine as One"). This is where the three Getter pilots come together.

Ryoma Nagare was the first person to be chosen by Professor Saotome to pilot Getter Machine 1. Ryoma-san was a descendant of a famous Martial Arts master and is to inherit the Nagare dojo when he's come of age. Since his High School days, his mastery of the Nagare-style Martial Arts has won him a huge fan following consisting entirely of girls.

Hayato Jin was the second to be chosen by Professor Saotome thanks to his high IQ rate, which makes him the most intelligent of the three. Hayato-san was a member of a powerful high school gang and was forced to pilot the Getter Machine 2 when a Mechasaurus attacked his school. This is also where Getter Robo entered its first real combat with Ryoma, Hayato, and Professor Saotome as pilots. After the incident, Hayato left his gang and formally joined the Getter Team.

Musashi Tomoe was the third to be chosen by Professor Saotome and took over the Professor's place as pilot of the Getter Machine 3. Musashi-san is said to have been a descendant of a famous Samurai family, which explains why he wears a Samurai Armored Breast Plate, a yellow cape, a construction helmet, and a Katana on its back as his uniform when piloting the Getter Machine 3 in those times. Though Musashi-san is mostly brawn, he is all heart.

With the help of Professor Saotome's daughter, Michiru, and the aid of the Kings, Jack, and Mary, with their robot, the Texas Mac, the Getter Team began their campaign of fighting against the Kyoryû Empire. Later, the team would later become members of the famous 13th Autonomous Corps alongside the crew of the White Base, Mazinger Z, and Raideen. With Getter Robo, Mazinger Z, Raideen, and the Gundam combined as a team, the 13th Autonomous Corps became very instrumental on the early phases of Operation Star One, which is the liberation of Zeon-occupied territories on Earth and taking out the Kyoryû, MetalBeast, and Youma ('Demon') armies.

After the war, the Getter pilots go on their separate ways. Ryoma-san inherited the Nagare dojo and became famous in the world of Martial Arts. Hayato got a PhD and became a researcher of Getter technology alongside Professor Saotome. Musashi joined the Japanese Army after he graduated from High School. Despite the separation, the three reunite with each other every year at Saotome's lab. The events yesterday was supposed to be their 7th reunion but was spoiled by the attack of Dr. Hell's forces.

As for the Getter Energy itself, research is still going on to this day as Professor Saotome has not yet declared it safe for conventional use, thus losing the energy race. But that is another story…

"Oh! So there you are, you three!" Michiru-san interrupts as she walks towards us. "I've been looking all over for you guys!"

"Hey! Michiru-san!" Musashi-san shouted. "You look more beautiful than ever!"

"Thanks, Musashi-kun." she giggled a bit. "Anyway, I was wondering if father has told you three already about the mass-production of Getter Robo."

"Mass-production?" I asked. Michiru-san nodded in reply.

"Federation Offcials talked to my father one day and asked if he could assist in the mass-production of Getter Robots for the Federation. He agreed and is already doing so as we speak."

"But why mass-produce the Getter Robo? What about their Mobile Suits?"

"The economy of the Federation dwindled greatly because they concentrated on the construction of the Super Dimensional Fortress in South Atalia Island." Hayato-san explains.

"You mean that giant alien ship that crash landed here 7 years ago?" asks Musashi-san.

"Correct. However, unlike our Getter Robo, the mass-production versions are non-transformable and will not run by the Getter Energy Cores. Instead, they will run using the new Plasma Engine they developed."

"But where did they manage to have enough money for that?" Ryoma asked.

"You wouldn't believe me if I told you, but the funding came from the Romefeller Foundation." Hayato answered.

"The Romefeller?" Ryoma and Musashi were shocked.

"What is this 'Romefeller Foundation'" I asked.

"It's a union consists of the richest and most powerful figures on Earth. The foundation was established shortly after the war and since then has been instrumental in the rebuilding of destroyed cities after both the One-Year War and the Vega Invasion. Their power influenced both political and military parties, most especially on the Federation itself after building the Super Dimensional Fortress. Now, they are also involved in funding technological research and production of new Mobile Suits."

"Wow,…" I said, completely speechless. From how Hayato-san said it, it sounded like this 'Romefeller' group is more than meets the eye. I'm getting the hunch that from what I've heard about this group, they might even buy their very own army if they so wish. And having the mass-produced Getter Robos on their hands would give them a head start, and an advantage against the other factions.

"Well, to continue," Michiru cuts in. "Father is working on two other Getter projects as well. The first one is a more powerful Getter Robo called 'Getter Robo G' and is nearing completion."

"A new Getter Robo? Cool!" I said in excitement.

"Benkei-kun is now making the final adjustments and will be testing it in a few months time."

"Benkei?"

"Benkei Kuruma, an old friend of ours." Ryoma said. "He was a former team captain of a grade school softball team and joined us near the end of the war. He's now a Getter Robo mechanic."

"I see. What about the other Getter project, Michiru-san?"

"Unfortunately, I don't know much of the details. I only know the name of the project and it's called..."

"...Project 'Shin'" Hayato said.

"Project 'Shin'? What's that?" Ryoma asked.

"I don't know either. But I might get some more information when I talk to the commander of the Far East Base."

Then suddenly we heard Koji-san screaming for help. We all turned around and see that Sayaka-san has applied an Ankle Lock on him.

"You give up, Koji-kun?" She asked.

"I GIVE! UNCLE! UNCLE~~~~!" He screamed.

Then suddenly, we heard an explosion. The impact shook the entire place and we all fell down on the floor. Afterwards, the alarm sounded.

"Looks like trouble's up ahead!" I shouted.

"Everyone, into your units!" Ryoma commanded. We all immediately got on our feet and went inside our respective mechas. As soon as the Grungust Nishiki is activated, I opened my channel to the bridge to report.

"This is Kazehino. Grungust Nishiki is ready!"

"Roger!" Naomi-san replied as I saw her face in my transmission window.

"Naomi-san? I thought you're working in sick bay?"

"Well, I also work here in the bridge as an operator. But let's chat about that later. We're being ambushed by the Blue Lotus!"

"Blue Lotus?"

"Pirates." she explains. "They steal MS units for money or rebuild them so they can add to their own and steal more MS units."

Then suddenly, another explosion occurred. The explosion jammed my transmission to the bridge somewhat. I was unable to see the visuals on the bridge, but I could barely hear the conversation going on there.

"What's going on!?!" asked Captain Mao. "Why can't we return fire!?!"

"There's too many Minovsky Particles released in this area!" replied one of the operators. "Our radar is being jammed by it so much we can't pinpoint the location of the enemy!"

"Damn it...All units, listen up!" ordered the Captain. "You are to launch immediately as soon as the hangar doors open! You all are to engage combat with the enemy and protect the White Base Kai until we find a safe spot! Be careful when you launch as we are taking heavy fire!"

"Understood!" I replied.

"Ryo. Please move your unit to the Catapult Launch Pad. You and Koji will be the first to be launched out." said Naomi-san.

"Roger that!" I replied as I move the Grungust Nishiki towards the launch pad.

"Attention! Here are the tactics for this battle!" said the Captain. Mazinger Z and the Grungust Type II will engage the enemy units on the ground as soon as they land! Grendizer and Getter Robo will take on the enemies in the air! Both Gespenst Units I and II are to position on top of the White Base Kai and stand their ground against incoming enemy units! All other units are to hold their positions until further orders!"

"Got it!" I replied.

"No problem!" said Koji. "This one will be a piece of cake for Mazinger Z!"

"Hangar doors are opening...now!" said Naomi-san. But as the hangar doors slowly open, a stray missile suddenly went inside and hit the Grungust right on the chest area.

"Ryo!" shouted Naomi-san. "Ryo, are you all right!"

I ignored the pain and replied. "I'm ok! KAZEHINO! GRUNGUST NISHIKI, LAUNCH!"

Upon saying that, the Grungust is then catapulted out of the hangar. I gripped the control stick firmly as I prepare myself for a new battle.

------------

Part 3

While my Grungust Nishiki is still in mid-air, I get a bird's eye view of the enemy we're facing. On the ground, I see the MS units of the Blue Lotus Pirates. But unlike the Mobile Suits ('MS' for short) of both Zeon and the Federation, most of the MS of the Blue Lotus are a cross of Zaku and GM models. Another thing noticeable about these MS units is having an insignia of a Lotus flower on either their chest or shoulder areas. Some have them on their shields and weapons. As for our enemies from the sky, I was shocked to see that some of them are riding a hovercraft-like platform, which enables them to fly.

As the Grungust finally lands both feet on the ground, I followed the battle strategy from the Captain and made a rushing attack on the enemy. The enemy was pretty much unprepared for my assault and I was successful in taking out a number of them before they could react. Koji-san, on the other hand, really took out more MS by just using Mazinger Z's Rust Tornado. The team-up attacks of Getter Robo's Getter Tomahawk and Grendizer's Screw Crusher Punch helped clear out the enemies in the air, allowing the White Base Kai to move out. A few did manage to get pass them, but Lieutenants Irmgardt and Daiken managed to keep them at their distance with their Split Missiles before they could even come close. As the White Base Kai slowly moves out of the Minovsky Particle area, we pressed on, clearing the path for our ship.

But then, something bad happened. From out of nowhere, waves of missiles were launched and all were targeting the White Base Kai. The ship took so many hits that it affected its movement badly. Even their weapons received damage. Then, more MS appeared from the trees equipped with Missile Launchers and Bazookas and all were pointing at the White Base Kai. Another group of enemy MS also appeared, their guns and melee weapons pointing at us. The enemy MS in the air made a circle formation, surrounding the White Base Kai, and pulled out their weapons. Strangely, though, they didn't bother opening fire at us as if telling us to halt our attack.

"There are a whole lot of them," said Koji-san.

"And a nice battle formation." I replied. "Their units may be outdated, but they still pack a punch."

"Not to worry! Mazinger Z will take care of those bozos! Take this! Rocket..."

"No, Koji-kun!" said Duke. "If we attack now, they will open fire at the White Base Kai. The ship's damaged and we're still within the Minovsky zone!"

"But..."

"He's right, Koji-san." I seconded. "We're finished here if they open fire. We'll have to follow them for now until there's a way we can pull out of this."

Koji-san only made a grunt and lowered Mazinger Z's arms.

"Just a moment, everyone!" Ryoma-san interfered. "It seems the leader of the Blue Lotus wishes to speak to us thru an open channel."

Seeing that we are at a slight disadvantage, we agreed to open our channels and listen to what the Blue Lotus leader has to say. Then the enemies in front of us suddenly gave way and, riding on a hovercraft platform, appeared a Gouf unit (a stronger version of the Zaku, being blue in color and having a pair of horns on its mono-eyed head that has some resemblance to an underwater oxygen mask thanks to the cables attached to its 'mouth'), which is probably the leader of the Blue Lotus. However, unlike the Goufs that were first documented during the One-Year War, the design of this model is slightly different. A cannon is attached on the right portion its back. It looks a lot like the one from the Federation's GM Cannon MS model. The left arm is less armored and has a light violet color. It also carries a big, round shield with the Lotus insignia on the center. Then I realized that's the arm and shield of the Gyan model (A MS once piloted by Zeon's Ma Q've and who had a close victory of defeating the Gundam in one-on-one combat). The legs of this Gouf are slightly bigger than the original (not to mention being purple in color), especially on its rear. My hunch is that additional boosters may have been installed on the rear to give more speed to the Mobile Suit. Probably, the legs came from a Dom model. The designs of the right arm, the torso, and the head are the same as the original Gouf model. Lastly, two Beam Sabers are attached to the waist. Shortly thereafter, we received a voice-only transmission from the leader of the Blue Lotus.

"Attention! I am the leader of the Blue Lotus! This is our territory and you have entered it! If you wish for us to spare your lives, then surrender your ship, cargo, and your Mobile Suits to us!"

"Surrender!?!" Koji-san suddenly replied. "Over my dead body if you want to take my Mazinger Z!"

"Koji-kun!" Duke shouted.

"Mazinger Z?" said the Blue Lotus leader. "Ah. The world famous Super Robot! And it seems Getter Robo and Grendizer are here as well! This is a much bigger loot than I've imagined."

"Listen you!" Koji-san shouted. "I will not handover Mazinger Z to you, to Dr. Hell, or to anyone else! Your Mobile Suits are nothing compared to my Mazinger Z! So if YOU wish to live, then let us pass through!"

"Dare to attack and I will give the order to destroy your ship!" the leader shouted and suddenly his troops aimed all of their weapons on the White Base Kai.

"Calm down, Koji-kun!" said Duke to Koji-san. "If the White Base Kai is destroyed we're finished here!"

"He's right, Koji-kun. Please calm yourself. We can't defend the White Base Kai from a barrage of missile attacks," said Ryoma-san. Koji-san only grunted in response.

We are in a tight situation here. We won't be able to proceed to our destination whether we surrender to the Blue Lotus or not. There has to be a way out of this. I suddenly felt that there must be something I could do to get us out of here. And I did do something - a foolish one.

"Blue Lotus leader!" I called him. "I am Ryoga Kazehino, pilot of the Grungust Nishiki!"

"What? The Grungust Nishiki?" surprised the Blue Lotus leader. "I have heard much about it since the Hokkaido Incident. Speak up, boy!"

"Are you really pirates?"

Then, he laughed. "What kind of a stupid question is that!?!"

"You definitely are pirates then! So you would not mind if I propose for a one-on-one duel against your strongest member?"

He then stopped laughed and asked me in a very serious tone. "What are you saying, boy? Do you honestly think we would accept a duel? We're the most notorious pirates on Earth! There's no one brave enough to challenge us!"

I grinned and laughed from inside me. I've found the Blue Lotus leader's weakness of having a whole lot of pride. I decided to use that to my advantage.

"Well, as they always say, 'there is a first time for everything'. Then let me have the honor of being the first to challenge you in a duel!"

"Hah! Give it up! There's no way you can defeat me or any of my men!"

"Laugh and brag all you want! You're saying that because you're AFRAID that you will be beaten by me!"

Everyone started mumbling after I said that. The Blue Lotus leader's Gouf raised its hand, telling everyone to keep quiet. Afterwards, the Gouf slowly lowers down its hovercraft platform and steps off, then slowly walks forward, staring at me, its mono-eye glowing as if in anger.

"You dare to insult me, boy?"

"Why are you acting that way? Is it because I'm saying the truth? If you really are strong, then you must accept the duel."

Silence then filled the air for the moment. Then I asked him again.

"So, are you man enough to accept my challenge?"

Then he revealed his face to me on my transmission window. From the looks of his face, I'd say he's Japanese of 32 years of age or so. He had long hair, which he tied it up like a Samurai's. He had a very hairy mustache and beard. He wears an all blue buttoned uniform just like the ones the Japanese authorities wore during the Meiji Era.

"You impress me, boy." He said. "Then so be it. If it is a duel you ask, a duel you will receive. If we win, we will have everything you've got, including your very lives."

"Fine by me. And if we win, you are to let us pass through your territory. And no tricks, got it?"

"Don't worry. What Shinja Yamada promises, he means what he promises." Upon saying that, he gave the order to all his men to retreat and regroup. I decide to do the same and returned to the White Base Kai.

Back at the hangar, a group of people welcomed me as I got off the Grungust Nishiki. It was the bridge crew of the White Base Kai along with Koji and the rest of the gang.

"What's going on here?" I asked.

"You did something that is very helpful to us, Ryo!" said Naomi-san.

"Helpful?"

"That's right, Ryo." The Captain approached me. "Thanks to you, we bought ourselves some time to finish preparing our Flash Missiles."

"Flash Missiles?"

"These are special types of missiles that release bright light once fired. It's similar to the Flashbang Grenades used by the military. We were trying to launch them a while ago, but they weren't ready for use and it still needs a few more adjustments. We can use these missiles to blind the enemy and make a getaway."

"And, it save me and my girls the burden of fixing up your mechs all over again!" someone said. I turned at the direction of the voice and there I met another girl of the crew. She wears a mechanic's outfit complete with gloves and all. Her hair was short and very abstract. She had dark eyes, short nose, light skin, and despite her appearance, her body structure is like that of a supermodel. Judging from the way she poses, I assume this girl is a bit of a tomboy. In any case, she then approached me, took of her gloves, and shakes my hand.

"Please to meet you. I'm the chief mechanic of the White Base Kai. The name's Yoshiko Yanagida. But everyone here calls me 'Yoshi-kun'."

"Ryoga Kazehino. Please to meet you, Yoshiko-san" I replied.

"Just call me 'Yoshi-kun'. I don't want to be called like I'm a mistress or something." Then she suddenly whispered to my ear. "Unless for a 'special occasion', ok?"

"Huh?"

"Anyway, thanks to you, we have all the time we need to finish up the Flash Missiles. Good job back there." She grinned

"Thanks."

"Yoshi-kun." Captain Mao interfered. "How long will it take for the Flash Missiles to be ready?"

"10 minutes at most, Captain."

Then suddenly, from the cockpit of my Grungust, I could hear the voice of Shinja calling us out.

"All right, boy! We're ready for our duel! Come out and show me what you've got!"

"Make it 5, Yoshi-kun." The Captain ordered.

"Yes, Captain. I'll do what I can." Then she gave me a wink and a pat on the shoulder. "Now don't get all beaten up out there, all right?" and heads off.

"Ryo," the Captain called me. "Try to prolong your fight as much as you can until the Flash Missiles are completed. I don't trust the Blue Lotus keeping their word that they would let us pass through if we win."

"Yes, Captain," I nodded and returned to the cockpit. Shortly, the hangar doors are opened once again and I was launched off.

Back outside, I noticed all of the Blue Lotus troops are keeping their distance. They're still surrounding us with their weapons on standby just in case we do any tricks. It would also seem that the troops themselves are considered as walls so I can say I'm inside a 'ring'. Fortunately, the 'ring' is somewhat large enough for me to move about. Shortly, Shinja Yamada, the Blue Lotus Leader, finally came inside the ring. I stand ready as he slowly stepped forward, and comes to a halt.

"Well, it seems you are well prepared for this fight. You do know that this may very well be your last day on this planet in case you lose. Are you sure you want to go through with this?" he asked me.

"To tell you the truth, I am nervous of getting myself killed. But I guess I don't have much of a choice. I'm ready."

"You're honest as well." He laughs. "Unfortunately, I won't be your opponent for this duel."

"What's that?"

"Not to worry. You will have your duel. Your opponent will be my right-hand man. Let me give you the pleasure of meeting your opponent. Step forward, Wind Shadow!"

Then his Gouf steps to the side and from behind him, step forwarded a mech that made me raise my eyebrows in shock --- the robot I'm facing is a Hückebein!

"No…it can't be…" the Captain said from the transmission. "How is it possible they have hold of that Hückebein …?"

"Captain, is that really another Hückebein?" I asked as I watch the mech closely. The designs are indeed similar to the one Captain Mao uses with the exception that this one is colored black.

"I'm afraid so, Ryo. But that is unlike my unit. Please be extra careful! That Hückebein is actually a…"

Before the Captain could finish her sentence, I received a transmission from the Hückbein's pilot as Shinja moves his Gouf away, leaving only the two of us inside the ring. He was wearing a black Ninja-like mask, so I could not see his face. He had a blue denim jacket covering his white shirt. He wears black jeans and also wore white wristbands with some red trim.

"So, you're the guy who's challenging the boss, eh?" he said.

"Yeah."

"Hah! You don't look so tough! I can take you out easily!"

"Never underestimate your enemy or else it will be your downfall."

"Who says I'm underestimating? I'm telling the truth! Your robot is so fat I bet you're fat as well!"

Now that was hitting below the belt. I guess I forgot to tell you that I get ticked off pretty easily when I'm being talked that way. Fortunately, thanks to Uriko-chan, I was able to have a little more patience on things like this. But there are times when I just really lost it, as in the case of what I call the 'Rage of The Beast', where I really showed my true potential in combat.

"Well, you'd better start saying your prayers boy!" said the pilot "Because this fight will be over in a few minutes - STARTING NOW!!!"

------------

Part 4

Suddenly, in a flash, the Hückebein threw a straight punch right at me, knocking my Grungust down to the ground. I quickly got back up and saw the mech now mocking me to come and attack. Out of frustration, I rushed towards the mech and went for a straight, but he quickly dodged it and countered with a knee drive to the gut. Then, using its knee to hold my Grungust, the Hückebein launched a series of Double Hammer Punches and an uppercut, making me reel back. Then he quickly vanished from my view and hit me in the rear. Then he popped in front of me and launched a combination of punches and finishes with a Forward Kick, knocking me back down again. The slam on the ground really hurt and I was in pain. It took me awhile before I could get up on my feet again. While I was still lying on the ground, I got a call from the Captain once more.

"Ryo! Are you all right?"

"Not really...he did a pretty good beating on me..."

"Please be careful! What you're fighting against is the first Hückebein!"

"What's that? The first one?"

"It's the first Hückebein model used along with the Grungust Type I during the One-Year War. You must fight it with caution. Although it is old, its weapons are extremely dangerous."

"Any idea on how I can beat this thing?"

"Its only weakness is its armor. If you can land a good blow on the cockpit, it might cause a malfunction on the controls and you can knock it out."

"Ryo! Can you hear me?" Yoshi-kun interfered.

"I hear you."

"We'll be able to complete the missiles sooner than expected. Can you hold on for about a minute or two more?"

"All right. I'll do what I can." I replied. Afterwards I move the Grungust back on its feet. I can then see the Hückebein now making taunts to make me attack. After seeing how fast the first Hückebein is, it seems my only chance is to stand on my ground and go for a counter-move when he makes his strike. I decided to do just that. I set up my stance and held my position while at the same time I concentrate to increase my sense of awareness. The Hückebein then began walking slowly from left to right and back, staring at me. I held my control stick firmly and grunted as I am at a huge disadvantage. If only I figured out how to use the Grungust's weapons, then at least I can fight better against my opponent. The least I can do now is to maintain defense.

Time passed and we still maintain our positions. It's almost like we're playing a new version of Chess. The pirates are getting impatient of the mind games we're playing and started ranting at us. Be that as it may, I maintained my position and tried to stay as focused as possible. If I lose focus for a split second, that would be the end of me.

"What's wrong?" Wind Shadow called out. "Am I too fast for you?"

I remained quiet.

"Well, that proves it. You definitely ARE a fatso!"

That really hit me and I quickly rushed towards him. Because of my foolishness on falling to his taunts, I once was taken down by the quickness of his Hückebein. And in my frustration, I got up and continued attacking Dark Shadow. And again, I'm taken down. As I lay down on the ground, I began having this strange feeling once more. The very same one I got ever since me and my friends back in Hokkaido discovered the Grungust Nishiki. Upon feeling that, I then began to remember the time I was still training in the dojo years ago. Like what's happening at this very moment, I rush and attacked my sensei but I could not even land a punch or a kick and I kept on going down. And in my frustration at that time, I cried and shouted at him.

"Why!?! Why can't I hit you, sensei!?!"

"It's because that is all you can think of." He replied. "The only thing you had in your mind is to just hit me with either a punch, or a kick. You never thought of the consequences that would arise if you try to hit me. Your frustration also leads you to your loss of focus, making it even harder for you to hit. That is why you fail." Upon saying that, my sensei turned on his back for a brief moment as I wiped the tears from my eyes and stood up. Then, he asked me. "Do you know the 'Way of The Hunting Tiger'?"

"'Way of The Hunting Tiger'?"

"For a tiger to catch his prey, he must be brave, calm, smart, and focused. If he loses even one of these, he will surely lose his prey. That is the 'Way of The Hunting Tiger', one of the ways of the Hazama-ryu." He then turned and looked at me and I looked him back, ignoring the tears coming from my eyes and listening to what he says. "If you wish to hit me and take me down like what I did to you, you must remember and do the Way of The Hunting Tiger. Learn to be brave, calm, smart, and focused not just in combat, but in every day of your life. If you are able to master these, then no matter what life throws at you, you will never go down. Do you understand, Ryo?"

Unfortunately, up until now, I have yet to show to myself and to my sensei the 'Way of The Hunting Tiger'. I would've learned more from him had he not died near the end of the One-Year War. In any case, I've got to try to do what my sensei said to me, as it's my only chance to beat Dark Shadow. I got back on my feet once more, went to my fighting stance, closed my eyes, and focused. As I concentrate on restoring my focus. I said to myself the very same words my sensei taught me when I began concentrating my focus for the very first time:

"Remove all unnecessary thoughts from your mind and focus on yourself. Always remain calm and breathe normally. Ignore all things from the outside and concentrate on yourself. Let the 'Ki' fill your heart, mind, and body. Once filled, let them overflow to your surroundings. Let you and your surroundings flow your 'Ki' in harmony as one."

As I said these words, I did not notice Wind Shadow taunting about me still holding my ground and makes his move. I stayed as is and continued concentrating. Then, that strange feeling returned. Afterwards, the image of the Hückebein appeared in my head, moving around me at lightning speed. But there's a catch: Somehow, I'm able to follow the movements of the Hückebein regardless of how fast it moves. Then, the Hückebein finally stopped on my right and is about to land a straight punch. Still maintaining focus I turned my Grungust to the right and as I see the punch coming, I raised my left arm upwards to block it.

There, I heard a clash of metal.

I opened my eyes and, to my surprise, the Grungust Nishiki blocked the Hückebein's punch.

"Wh...wha...what the!?!" startled the Hückebein pilot.

Not wasting a second more, I made my move. As my left hand grabbed the Hückebein's right arm, I did what the Captain told me and quickly threw a right punch to the Hückebein's cockpit. Then, I turned around, resting the Hückebein's arm on the Grungust's right shoulder. With both hands now holding the arm, I simultaneously lowered myself as I pulled down the arm, quickly lifting the Hückebein and throwing it down to the ground, and finally finishing it with a hard punch to the torso. The cheering and shouting of the pirates has now gone silent as everyone, including myself, watched the Hückebein motionless. I then released the Hückebein's arm and slowly walked towards Shinja's MS, saying this:

"This battle is over! I have won! Now, let us pass through!"

Angered by the outcome, he shouted back at me.

"YOU! HOW DARE YOU WIN THIS BATTLE! WE WILL NOT TOLERATE THIS! ALL UNITS FIRE AT WILL!!!"

"Ryo! Close your eyes now! We're about to fire the missiles!" Naomi-san said to me. I did as she told and all I could hear were missiles firing and exploding. Then, I could hear the wails and cries of the pirates saying they cannot see. The Flash Missiles worked. But I cannot open my eyes yet as the effects of the Flash Missiles will last for a few more seconds.

"All right! Move out!" shouted the Captain.

Not wishing to just stand here, I made a blind rush attack towards the 'wall', knocking down the enemy MS units. When I finally opened my eyes, I'm already out of the Flash Missile's radius and I can see the White Base Kai hovering above me.

"This is Kazehino! Requesting permission to return to base!" I contacted them.

"Roger, Ryo! Grendizer is now launching out to pick you up!" Naomi-san replied.

Seconds later, the Grendizer, piloted by Duke Fleed, is then launched from the hangar. I was a bit surprised to see that the Grendizer can still take flight even without the Spacers. Grendizer then slows down to match my Grungust's running speed.

"Ryo-kun! Get ready to jump!" Duke said to me.

"Ok!" I replied. Just for show-off, I decide to imitate the same jump and dock sequence of Mazinger Z and Jet Scrander. After running a few more steps, I made my jump and shifted my body forward, arms raised. Then the Grendizer grabs the Grungust Nishiki by the stomach. The 'docking' sequence is successful.

But we're not out of the woods yet.

The Grungust Nishiki's radar suddenly detects an enemy group approaching us from behind. No doubt it's the Blue Lotus now using their hovercraft boards to chase us.

"This is Kazehino! We've got enemy Mobile Suits coming at our tail!" I contacted the White Base Kai once more.

"Affirmative, Ryo! Return to the White Base Kai," replied Naomi-san. "We will try to outrun them!"

Grendizer and my Grungust Nishiki then returned to the hangar after hearing Naomi-san. Once inside, she then requested that I stay in the cockpit as the White Base Kai will raise its altitude. As I waited back inside the cockpit, I could feel the ship rising up to the air. My ears then began ringing and I tried to swallow my own saliva to pop the ringing out. Worse is that what Sung had said was right, the very noise of the ship's engines were louder than an airbus's, so loud that I had to cover my ears. My feeling of the ship rising in the air remained for about a minute. Then, it stopped.

Moments later, I heard the announcement from the Captain.

"This is Captain Mao. We have outrun the enemy. Repeat. We have successfully outrun the enemy."

I made a sigh of relief upon hearing that. It would seem that though the Blue Lotus have their hovercraft objects with them, their altitude is very limited. Then, the Captain contacted me.

"Ryo. I'd like to congratulate you on your actions. You've saved the White Base Kai and its crew from being taken out by those pirates. I thank you."

"Thank you for the compliments, Captain."

"We will be arriving at our destination shortly thanks to our maneuvers. Get yourself some rest. You need it."

At first, I wanted to ask Captain Mao about the first Hückebein. What makes it so dangerous and why is it that it's in the hands of the Blue Lotus Pirates? But I decide not to and just do as the Captain says. Before I left my cockpit, I noticed an object on the right side of my seat. It was the data scanner and communicator I wore back in Hokkaido. I forgot that I placed it on the side of my seat before I got off and taken by Lieutenants Irmgardt and Daiken. The lens is broken, but the rest seems to be in good shape. I then put it in my pocket and returned to my quarters where I got myself a much-needed rest.

------------

Part 5

I had a pretty weird dream when I rested. Several images continue to flash thru my head. Most of them were very disturbing. But there is one that is so disturbing, I cannot even input here in this LogCom as it was something which I wanted to forget my whole lifetime. Nevertheless, that event made me get up from the sofa quickly and it was followed immediately by a screaming of a girl. I turned to my right and indeed there was a girl in the room who seems to have been frightened by my sudden awake. The girl turned around to see me sweating nervously.

"Like, you startled me, you know!" she said.

"Sorry..." I replied. Then she noticed I was sweating a lot and I was breathing heavily.

"Oh my...are you all right? You look quite pale, you know…"

"S...sorry. I just had a bad dream, that's all. Nothing to worry about."

"Well, I guess it's like because you've been very much exhausted from the last battle, you know. In fact, you've been there for quite some time you skipped lunch!"

Now that she mentioned it, my stomach is grumbling loudly.

"What time is it?" I asked.

"1:22 pm." She answered.

"1:22!?! Oh, my gosh! I need to report to the…" But before I could finish my sentence, she placed her palm close to my face.

"Shhh…no, no, no." she then wiggled her index finger at me. "You can't leave this room until you finish your lunch!"

"But, I need to report to the Captain now that we are at the Far East Base!"

"Nope, nope, nope!" she shook her head. "Not until you finish your meal! Those are Miss Naomi's orders! Besides, we're not even there yet!"

"Huh? I don't get it…"

"That whole fiasco with those Blue Lotus pirates has set the ship off-course, you know! Adding to that, the engines were pretty much in bad shape, we had to stop for repairs." She then gave me a cup of instant ramen with some crackers. "Here. Eat up. You'll need it to restore your strength, you know."

Well, seeing that we haven't arrived yet, and that I only had cookies, which isn't enough to fill my stomach, I agreed and began eating the noodles and crackers. It took me about less than 2 minutes to finish them all up. I was starving at that time, you know. After taking the last bit of the noodles, they suddenly got stuck in my chest and I needed a drink to push them down. The girl then handed me a glass of orange juice and I drank it to the last drop. The food was pushed and my stomach's satisfied. I looked up at the girl to thank her and she gave me a very cute smile, which made me smile back. From the looks of her face, she may be Japanese like Yoshiko-san, but I can be mistaken. I highly admire the way her hair looks. Sadly, I'm not that much knowledgeable about Hair Fashion, so I can't describe what her hair looks like. The least I can say about it is that she had pink hair hat stretches down to her cheeks. The clothes she wore are more like the schoolgirl type (which probably explains her near child-like behavior, and the way she talks). White, long sleeved, silk shirt covered in a blue long sleeved silk jacket and wearing a blue skirt and having white sneakers and socks. Then by accident, I noticed that her skirt was so short, I could see a glimpse of her white underwear as she sits on her knees. Before I let my silly thoughts take over, I quickly asked her about something. "By the way, I don't think I've seen you before on this ship..."

"Oh. Well, I was like pretty much busy all day, helping up with the laundry and shopping for food and all." She replied. Something I did not expect from someone like her.

"I see. Do you do this everyday?"

"Yep."

"Isn't that tiring for you? I mean doing this all day is a lot of work."

"Well, we don't have many crew members on this ship, so like I have to work a lot. Besides, I'm used to this already, you know. I've been doing this kind of work ever since I was with my father back at Shizuoka."

"Shizuoka? You live at Shizuoka?"

"Yes. My father and I had a house in Shizuoka until it was torn down during the One-Year War. Dad was a former Federation official but after the war, he like decided to join the Federation once again, you know. He worked very hard so that he could earn money for us to build another home, you know. I like decided to help him out despite him discouraging me to do so and I ended up here working for Captain Mao since he like knew the captain for some time."

"I see. What about your mother?"

Then, there was a change in her way of talking as she replied. "Father and mother got divorced a year before the war began. We haven't heard from her since."

"Oh. So sorry to hear that..."

"That's ok. I'm happy with where I am now, you know."

"That's good to hear."

The two of us continued talking then on, learning that she is the only member of the crew who knows how to cook, but the lack of funds has kept her from doing so ever since she joined in. We had something in common there, as I too like to cook. I suggested to her that once we reached the base, the two of us would go shopping for some groceries since I can exchange the winning can for some money. She was more than delighted to do so, but she knew that I'll start my training with Lieutenant Crow when we land, so she'll tag along as soon as I get some free time. Her name by the way is Mika Mikage, and despite her child-like appearance, she insists that she is in her 9th Grade and, even though working on the ship, finds some time to study thanks to online school tutoring, which her father paid all up to her graduation.

A short time later, we have finally arrived at the Far East Base, located several kilometers outside of Tokyo-2 (Tokyo has expanded after many cities were destroyed in both wars and divided into different sections. The original Tokyo City, which survived thru the wars, is renamed Tokyo-1). I was then summoned to the hangar were Captain Mao and the others are waiting for me. When I arrived there, I found the Captain along with Hayato-san, Lieutenants Kazahara and Crow, and her guest. The guest was quite a large man (fat one, actually. Hope he doesn't read this.), and having a short, thin mustache. He is also wearing the uniform of the Japanese Military. Judging from the designs on it, he seems to be a high-ranking officer. I bet this guy is the head of the Far East Base. I approached them immediately to report.

"Captain!" I called out and gave a salute.

"Ah! Ryo! Good that you're here!" she replied. "At ease now, you don't have to do that here."

"Err…so sorry, Captain."

"Nah. Don't worry about it. Anyway, Ryo, I would like to introduce to you my guest, Commander Oka of the Japanese Military and head of the Far East Base."

"Please to meet you, Commander. I'm Ryoga Kazehino." I said and bowed to him.

"Please to meet you as well, Kazehino-kun," replied the Commander. "The Captain has told me a lot of about you. I am quite astonished though that a young person such as you is able to pilot the Grungust."

"Thank you, sir."

"I assume you would like to know about your status here, Kazehino-kun."

"Um...yes sir."

He then shows me the special access card I used back in Hokkaido.

"We have received this back from the Photo-Atomic Power Laboratory. I've read all the data gathered from this card and I am quite happy with the results." He said as I received the card. "However, it seems you have trouble in using the weapons of the Grungust."

"My apologies, sir. I really have no idea how I managed to use them."

"Furthermore, I'm also puzzled that you are able to pilot the Grungust even though you are not a NewType, let alone not having any military training at all. I agree with Captain Mao that your ability to use it may have something to do with the parts installed on the Grungust."

"Um…request permission to ask a question, sir?"

"Go ahead."

"Do you have any knowledge on how it was possible that I could pilot the Grungust?"

"I'm afraid I know not of these things. Only those from DC know those parts and may explain this."

"I see..."

"There is also a consideration of the crime you committed."

"I am aware of that, sir."

"There is nothing to worry about. No punishment will be put against you for piloting the Grungust Type-2. This is my decision as the head of the Far East Base. However, seeing the circumstances, we wish to see more Combat Data of the Grungust with you as its pilot."

"Yes sir."

"I've heard that you have accepted Captain Mao's request that you would be the Grungust Type-2 pilot."

"Yes sir."

"Very well. You are to begin Combat Training and testing tomorrow morning. We have heard of the recent attacks from Dr. Hell and it's most likely he will send his forces to come and capture the Grungust for his own use, so the need to gather data from the Grungust is top priority. Lieutenant Daiken Crow here will be instructing you on the control of the Grungust Type-2 as he has piloted a Grungust unit before."

"I understand, sir."

"We won't limit you on your training, Kazehino-kun," said the Captain. "But we ask that you make a lot of effort to master the use of the Grungust at the soonest possible time."

"I'll do my best, Captain."

"By the way, Commander." Hayato-san interrupts as he reads through a series of documents. "These documents...they're..."

"Yes. Those documents are concept papers for building the Shin Getter Robo. The heart of Project 'Shin'"

"The other Getter Robo…" I said

"But why build another one?" asked Lt. Kazahara. "There is already Getter Robo G and the mass-produced Getters."

"It seems Professor Saotome wishes to design a Getter Robo that is composed of pure Getter Energy." Hayato-san explains. "Both Getter Robo and Getter Robo G are still built with robotic materials like metal and cables. Shin Getter's entire body construction will be composed of 90% Getter material. If the project is successful, then the Shin Getter would prove to be the mightiest of the Getter Machines as it will have unique abilities like healing."

"Healing?" we asked.

"Yes, the ability to repair itself after taking damage."

"But isn't the Getter Energy harmful to humans?" asked the Captain.

"If it were, Ryoma, Musahi, and I would've been barbecued long ago when we piloted Getter Robo for the first time."

"So what would happen to Getter Robo G if Project 'Shin' is a success?" I asked.

"Most likely, the design papers of it will be handed over to the Federation for mass-production, though I doubt Professor Saotome would do that."

"So the news of the mass-production of the Getters is true." Lt. Crow comments.

"Yes," answered Commander Oka. "Production of these units is underway at the Federation base in Hiroshima. However we have the first three of the mass-produced models here that's nearing completion. We are now just waiting for the Plasma Engines to arrive here. They'll arrive by land in 2-3 days"

"The substitutes for the Getter Core Engines," I said.

"Correct. The Federation has managed to produce a more resourceful and less expensive engine that helps cut the production cost. Originally, these mass-produced Getters are supposed to run using the conventional engines used in Mobile Suits, but simulation tests show that they have insufficient energy to operate them properly. So the experimental Plasma Engines were made."

"Experimental?" surprised the Captain.

"Yes, the three Plasma Engines arriving here are untested, but the simulation showed that the engines were enough to run the mass-produced Getters and have sufficient energy for using weapons like the Getter Beam and Drill Storm. The head officials of the Federation have given specific instructions to use the Getters as soon as the Plasma Engines are installed."

"No offense, sir, but isn't that dangerous?" I asked.

"In the army, Kazehino-kun, we tend to take even the most extreme of risks if it means security for our nation."

Much as I like to protest such actions, I decided to agree with the Commander.

"There are other units mentioned on building aside from the Getters." Hayato-san said as he reads through the documents.

"Others?" asked Lt. Kazahara.

"The 'Choudenji' Project," answered the Commander.

"'Choudenji'?" asked the Captain.

"'Super Electromagnetic'" I said. "At least that's how I can translate it."

"We prefer the term 'Ultra Electromagnetic'" the Commander replied. "The Far East Base offers total support for the building of a robot powered by this 'Choudenji' Energy as discovered by Professor Nanbara of the Nanbara Connection."

"Nanbara Connection?" asked Hayato-san.

"An island base and research center not far from Japan. It was built to research on the Choudenji Energy and designing a robot powered by it in response to reports that an alien fleet will arrive here to attack."

Alien fleet...could they mean the Vega Empire Koji-san used to mention? I'll have to ask him and Duke about that.

"There are actually two robots being designed here." Hayato-san mentioned. "The first is from the Nanbara Connection, and the second one is from another island base called 'Camp Big Falcon'."

"Both Nanbara Connection and Camp Big Falcon are researching on Chodenji Energy." The Commander explains further. "However, the second robot will be a customized version using the first as its base."

"So what are the names of these 'Chodenji Machines'?" asked the Captain.

"The first one will be named 'Combattler V' (the letter 'V'). The second one will be named 'Voltes V' (V as in the Roman number '5')."

"Combattler V and Voltes V..." I murmured.

"Anyway, Kazehino-kun."

"Yes, Commander."

"There's still plenty of time before your training and test begins. Why not you go and have a rest until then?"

"Yes sir. Thank you, sir."

After I left the hangar, I caught up with Mika-chan and began carrying out our plans for the day. We found a nearby facility where the Hello-c drinks were manufactured and I tried my luck there with the can and won a lump of cash. As I talked to Mika-chan later on, we bought some vegetables, meat, and other groceries from the market. I then reminisced of times I had with Uriko-chan and the others back in Hokkaido. I usually prepare meals for them whenever they come to visit and the girls are quite happy to help me out. As a matter of fact, some of the recipes I know, I learned from them.

When we returned to the White Base Kai, Mika-chan thanked me for accompanying her and that she will try to help me tomorrow on preparing breakfast. I thanked her back. I then returned to my quarters and found this LogCom on a table along with a note. The LogCom belonged to Naomi-san and she gave it to me for my own use as she never got to use it. Now that the day is over, I will close this LogCom until next time, as I need to rest up not only to prepare a meal for the crew, but to prepare also for my training with Lieutenant Crow.

End of Log.

End of Chapter 4