Orange Star: A revised history
Commanding Officer Mel
Disclaimer: I still don't own the company that made Advance Wars but I do own a copy of the game as usual.
Author's note - And anything that is in Romanji or Pinyin and base Cantonese will be translated, or stated otherwise. Read And Review!
Orange Star had prepared their naval transport across the Cometan Sea to their next destination, Yellow Comet.
"Ah . . .the air's nice here." Sami said leaning along the side rail of the transport.
"Uh huh . . ." Mel sat on deck strumming his guitar as Andy hummed the tune.
"Andy! Quit your humming! I'm trying to enjoy the music!" Max said laughing.
"Hey! I sing better than I hum!"
"I know! But Mel's guitar sounds a lot better!"
"Huh! Be that way then!" Andy headed off to his quarters.
". . .that was mean Max." Sami said.
"It's all in good fun, right Mel?" Max asked.
". . .huh. Sure." Mel said.
"Not completely there are you?"
". . .whatever." Mel said. "Just stay on my good side Max, or you'll risk getting blown back to Orange Star."
"Wha . . .?"
"I'm kidding." Mel said. "Hmm . . .Yellow Comet. It's been a while."
"Yeah . . ." Sami said. ". . .well unless you count that vacation we took."
". . .hmm. I wonder if they'll attack us too?"
"You never know . . ." She said shading her eyes.
". . .hmm."
"Hey Mel . . ."
"Yeah?"
". . .do you think I should dye my hair?"
". . .what for?"
". . .too fit in."
"Fit in?"
"To fit in with you and your group of friends. I'm the only one with red hair after all." She said playing with a few strands of her hair.
". . .you mean to dye it brown?"
"More or less."
"Nah . . .it looks cute that way. Leave it."
". . .mmm. All right then!"
". . .ah." He stood up and put away his guitar.
"What?"
". . .nothing." He stood next to her against the railing and leaned over. "How are you holding out?"
". . .huh?"
". . ."
". . .well . . .it's been hard . . .and different now."
"Different?"
"Yeah . . .since it's a bit odd that your field commander is your boyfriend . . ."
"Ah . . ."
"But I guess it has it's benefits. I can spend time with you again."
". . .true." He nodded. "But there's something that's been bugging me for a while."
". . .really why?"
"This entire way . . .there's something about it that just doesn't make sense."
". . .weird."
"Yeah . . .it is weird." Mel said as he stared off into the horizon.
Place: Yellow Comet Capital
". . .Sonja!"
". . .hmm?" Sonja walked in sleepily. "What's the matter daddy?"
". . .Orange Star has arrived to attack us!"
". . .don't be ridiculous! Why on earth would the Orange Star army attack us?" Sonja argued.
"Simple! They are not content with what they have! Call the White Sun army to our aid as well!"
". . .but of course. I'll alert them right away." She then walked off. ' . . .daddy's overreacting AGAIN. Honestly. It's just Mel and his friends . . .'
"Sonja! GO!" Kanbei shouted.
". . .I'm working on it father!" She shouted back as she started typing in the frequency for the White Sun forces.
". . .hello." Gary said, looking very bored.
"Gary! This is . . .sort of important!"
". . .what is?" He adjusted his glasses. "I don't really care."
"You listen up right now!" Sonja said slamming her fist on the screen.
". . .what?"
". . .call Gabe or whoever and tell them this IS important!"
". . .yeah . . .sure . . .I understand."
"NO YOU DO NOT!"
". . .there's no need to get all angry Miss Sonja." Gary continued.
"Euh? Who're you talking to?" Gabe said walking in front of the screen. "Oh. Hi Sonja."
"Grr!!! YOU TWO IDIOTS WILL LISTEN TO ME!"
". . ." The two White Sun officers just stared blankly at her. "What?"
"Mel and the rest of them are entering Yellow Comet territory! And . . .and well father wants YOU two to . . .well . . . 'stop' them."
". . .Mel? Oh is that all?" Gabe said. "Meh."
". . .you understand right?"
"Yep. Leave it to us." Gabe signed off.
". . .idiots . . ." Sonja groaned.
Time: Mid-morning
Place: Orange Star Encampment
"Hmm . . ." Mel thought to himself as he peered through a pair of binoculars.
"What's going on?" Andy asked.
". . .Sonja's dad is in our way."
". . .Huh!? Kanbei!?"
"Seems so."
". . .that's no good." Andy said.
"Hmm? What's up you two?" Sami said as she walked out.
". . .Kanbei's imperial army is in our way." Mel said putting down the binoculars.
"Oh . . ."
"Yeah . . .
"Maybe we should call him up and talk some sense into him." Sami said rather annoyed.
"I'll go try and do that." Mel offered. "He should listen to me . . .I hope."
"Mel . . .you do that. And make it quick!" Sami nodded.
"Right . . .before I go though . . . Max! You're in command!" Mel walked out.
". . .all right! Let's rock!"
Place: Plains of Yellow Comet
Mel made his way across the green fields.
". . .eh . . .it seems so . . .empty." He said. That was until the whistling sound of a rockets was heard. ". . .?"
'BOOM!'
". . .why . . .me?" Mel said standing inches from a crater by his feet.
"Did we get him!?" Mel heard some soldiers say.
". . .you JERKS!" Mel said running towards the nearest rocket unit.
". . .EH!? It's commander – "
"DIE!" Mel's foot wrapped in flames smashed cleanly into one of the rockets, sending it flying.
". . .did . . .did . . .did he just KICK A ROCKET INTO THE AIR!?"
". . .ahem . . .why are you guys shooting at me!?" Mel demanded the soldiers.
". . .uh . . .uh . . ."
"Whatever! I'm going to talk to the Emperor, so if you'll excuse me . . ." He walked off, not before he managed to boot another rocket into the air.
". . .he's a monster . . ." The soldiers muttered among themselves.
Place: Orange Star HQ
". . .huh!?" Max looked at the map confused.
". . .what's the matter?" Andy asked.
". . .that . . .that rocket unit was just attacked, but none of our units have even mobilized yet!"
". . .so?"
". . .that's weird . . ."
"What the heck are you two going on about?" Sami asked.
". . .look."
". . .hmm?" She looked at the screen. "So?"
". . .it just got damaged!"
". . .oh! Well . . .whatever it was . . .that's good right?"
". . .yeah . . .but we didn't attack it yet . . ." Andy said.
". . .oh . . .well then." Sami scratched her head. "Odd."
". . .hmm."
". . .wait!" The girl said.
". . .what!?"
"Knowing Mel . . .he probably might have had something to do with this." Sami simply said.
". . .don't tell me Mel can just go and . . ." Max was then interrupted as the radar detected something flying straight at the HQ. "What's that!?"
'WHAM!'
". . .Uh . . .Max sir?" A tech said.
"What!?"
". . .an enemy tank has just landed into our front compound . . ." She said, before she passed out from shock.
". . .don't believe me Max?" Sami said with a smirk.
". . .wha . . .wha . . .whoa." Max was in a state of disbelief.
". . .I better make sure he's not up to no good." The girl said leaving the room.
". . .well there goes the world." Andy muttered.
Place: Yellow Comet HQ
"Who intrudes on Kanbei!?" Came a shout.
"Father . . .it's only just a . . ." Sonja said as she and her father turned the corner to meet the uninvited guest head on. ". . .EH!? Nii- chan!?"
"I'm back Sonja." Mel said messing up her hair.
"What are you doing here!?"
"Uh . . .we were trying to pass through . . .but your father's forces seems to be in our way."
"Are you saying you are INVADING!?" Kanbei said.
". . .not really." Mel said shrugging.
"Then what are you doing here!?"
". . .finding Olaf." Mel said, as he followed Kanbei and Sonja to the communications room.
". . ." Kanbei looked at the com-link screen and spotted Andy, Max and Sami waving. "AHA! That's the one that did this! That . . .that Andy!"
"Andy!? No, no, no, no, no, no! It's not really him it's a – " Sonja tried to reason.
"Men! Prepare to ride out to victory!" Kanbei shouted.
". . .crap." Mel groaned. "GUYS! DO SOMETHING NOW!" Mel shouted at them through the screen.
"Another thing Mel! You must not communicate with the enemy! You must take command of the White Sun again!"
"But you don't understand! I just – "
"Whatever you are about to say does not matter now! You will do as you are commanded! Take command and prepare to crush our foe!"
". . .god." Mel muttered. "Uh . . .let me get my stuff first. And perhaps I shall 'infiltrate' within the enemy base and what not . . ."
"Very well! That is an excellent plot! But you MUST come back!"
". . .will you see me out Sonja?"
". . .all right nii – HEY!" Sonja shouted as Mel dragged her with him to the door.
"Didn't you explain to your father that those things ARE NOT Andy!?"
"Uh . . .no. He wouldn't listen . . .and if he asked why I'd know . . .then he'd know I have a boyfriend and stuff . . ."
". . .RIGHT."
"Okay . . .what are you going to do!?"
"I'll fake some battles or something . . .just like you."
"Just like . . .huh?"
"Okay . . .when Orange Star is done mopping up father's forces . . .you knock them out and separate them . . .I have a plan to lure out our enigmatic foe."
". . .ah."
"And since you're . . . supposed to be 'infiltrating' so to speak, you can muddle up father's strategy with faulty Intel and so on."
". . ."
"Another thing . . ."
"What?"
"If you remember that Christmas . . .I've found some sort of connection."
". . .Black units . . .of course. But then . . .how are we gonna find him?"
"Grit's told me that Olaf's going to meet 'that' man."
". . .him. That . . .thing. He's the reason I'm suffering."
"Don't fret about it Mel. I'll find a way."
". . .I hope it'll work. And be careful." Mel said hugging his childhood playmate before he left.
". . .you too nii-chan. You too . . .oh! And say hi to Andy for me!"
"Okay then!" Mel said as he ran off through the tanks and their confused drivers. That was, before he returned to HQ, he made sure he sabotaged a good number of the Yellow Comet units first.
Time: About an hour or so later
Place: Orange Star HQ
"Mel?" Sami asked as a streak of white dashed right past her.
"Nothing important! Got to go, love you, bye!" He said in a single breath as he grabbed his things and ran out the door.
". . .wha?" She stood there confused. Then he ran back in.
"Oh yeah, tell Andy Sonja said hi. Now bye!" He ran out again.
". . .Huh!?" Sami blinked, looking very confused. "Where's he off to again!? We need a strategist . . .Mel!"
"Sorry! Maybe later!"
". . .grr." She took a deep breath. "MEL!!!" He froze in mid step.
". . .(gulp) Yes?" He said turning around.
"What-are-you-doing?" She asked.
"Uh . . .I was . . .uh . . ."
"You're staying here. We need your help."
". . .right. I'm NOT supposed to be there. Right." He muttered to himself.
". . .what?"
"Never mind."
"What do you mean never mind? We just saw as Kanbei re-enlisted you. You're staying."
"How'd . . .you know?"
"Sonja left the com-link on for us."
". . .oh. But then . . ." He was worried if they heard about the 'other' plan.
"I don't care what Kanbei said! Just stay right here!"
". . .fine." Mel said nodding.
Time: A week later
Place: Orange Star HQ
As the 'battle' raged on, Mel sighed as he looked out the window, then spat bitterly.
". . .this is stupid and pointless. How many more lives must be lost to achieve something like this?" He said to himself as he watched the orange units smash the Imperial forces to pieces.
"What's the matter?" Sami asked as she walked in. She sensed a 'killing' aura coming from the room, which gave her the chills.
". . .nothing of importance." He said, stepping away from the window.
". . .we're almost done this time around." She said.
"I know."
". . .hmm . . .want to go get some fresh air? It might do you some good, you know?"
". . .hmm . . .why not? Let's go by those mountains there."
". . .okay. C'mon then, let's go." She said heading for the door.
". . .why are you doing that?"
"Doing what?"
"Going out the door?"
". . .aren't we gonna go out that way?"
"Not if I can help it." He swept her off her feet and carried her to the window.
". . .what . . .what are you doing!?"
"We're gonna jump! Hold on!"
". . .you're crazy! It's 10 stories up!"
"So? That never hurt anyone." Mel said smiling.
"I'm not too sure about – yeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeek!" Sami screamed as Mel jumped out the window and the two of them were free-falling towards the fields . . .
Place: Yellow Comet HQ
"Inconceivable! I lost!" Kanbei said with disgust.
". . .you did daddy?" Sonja said.
"Yes! We must withdraw from here! But . . .why isn't Mel of any help right now!?"
". . .I'm not sure daddy." Sonja shrugged. 'Hopefully he's doing something to foul you up or something . . .' "He must be trying to find an ideal time to escape or something."
"Very well! We shall strike again!"
". . .of course daddy." Sonja sighed. 'Nii-chan . . .be careful now.'
Place: Orange Star HQ
"Mel?" Andy said as he peered into the office. "Where are you?"
". . ." No answer.
". . .weird." Andy made his way to the dorms. 'Must be here. There's nowhere else left.' He thought to himself. "Hey! Mel?"
". . ." Still nothing.
"Where on earth is he?" Andy walked into the room and looked around. Heading towards the open window, Andy stuck his head out and took a deep breath of fresh air. "Ah . . .Yellow Comet's a nice place to be . . .huh?" He looked outside and saw what looked like two people landing next to the mountains.
Place: Base of a mountain
". . .you're crazy." Sami simply said as she tried to get up from landing on top of Mel.
". . .can you please get off? I can't feel my spleen . . ."
". . .you know it's not a good idea to jump out of a building like that. I don't CARE if you can. It's dangerous enough as it is by yourself! And what are you, stupid!? You bring me along for the ride too! That's insane!"
". . .ah . . .sorry 'mi."
". . .hmph! Well . . .at least you made a good landing." She said getting up.
". . .gimme a hand here . . ." Mel said, struggling to stand.
". . .aiya . . ." She sighed. "You're more troublesome than you look Mel . . ." She said helping him up.
"Heh . . .I didn't expect an extra hundred something pounds would do anything . . ."
". . ."
". . .well . . .it's been a while . . .but here's Yellow Comet again."
"Yeah . . ." Sami inhaled deeply.
". . .it's nice." He said staring at the clear skies.
". . .you think we should have told the others we left?"
"Nah . . ."
". . .okay."
"So how has it been?" Mel asked sitting down on a large rock. "We need to catch up some more."
"Hmm? Oh . . .sure." She sat next to him on the rock, and leaned against him. "It's been far too long."
". . .has it?"
"Since June until now? Yeah, it's been almost a year."
"Wow . . .that is long . . ." Mel said.
"Hmm . . .it was tough to get by . . .I was so lonely and bored . . ." She sighed.
". . ." He remained silent.
". . .I didn't want to talk . . .and . . .all your letters didn't help either . . ."
". . .sorry." He said.
". . .it's okay . . ."
". . .oh well . . ."
Time: Hours later
"Let's go back Sami."
". . .good idea . . .I'm hungry."
". . .hmm."
"Help me up will you?" She said.
"Sure."
"Too bad everything nowadays is so messed up."
"Yeah . . .tank heaps, bodies . . .gas . . .the whole mess." Mel spat.
"At least we're still alive."
"Yeah . . .at least we are. Come on, get up . . .you've been napping there for the last three hours . . .the others are probably worried."
". . .mmm. Kay . . ." She sat up.
". . .fine . . ." Mel sighed. "I'll carry you back."
". . .okay." She felt herself get lifted onto his back. ". . .mmm."
"Well then, let's go."
Time: An hour later
"Oh geez . . .I can't keep this up forever you know?"
""Hmph . . ." She pressed closer against him. "Don't care." She closed her eyes.
"You're such a kid." He groaned.
". . ."
"You've gotten lighter . . ." He suddenly mentioned.
"Hmm . . .probably."
"Why?"
"I haven't eaten a proper meal in the last few months . . .that's all. I lost weight."
"Izzat so . . .I won't stop you, unless you want to wither away 'mi."
"Mel!"
"Sorry . . ." He laughed. "But you know . . .I can't feel my back anymore . . ."
". . .oh."
". . .can you walk?"
"Perfectly."
". . .then why don't you?"
". . .cuz I don't feel like it."
". . .ugh."
". . .hmm."
"Sorry Sami but . . .you gotta get off." He said as he fell face down onto the grass. "Oof . . ."
". . .hmm. But Mel . . ."
"What?"
". . .we're only a few feet from the door . . ."
". . .urk." He groaned. ". . .I don't believe it . . ."
Time: Later that night
Place: Lounge
"Mel, Mel, Mel, Mel, Mel, Mel . . .!" Sami was now sitting on top of his back after she had knocked him over from behind.
". . ."
"You okay Mel?" Max asked as he watched the scene unfold before him. "You look pained."
"Blah." Mel muttered. "She's like an oversized kitten or something."
"No I'm not!"
"Then get off my back!"
"No!"
"Why not!?"
"I dunno." She shrugged.
". . .guh . . ." Mel's face hit the ground again. "Gimme a break . . ."
". . .poo." Sami pouted as she got off his back.
". . ."
". . .ooh . . .fooey." Sami poked him.
". . ."
"Hmm . . .?"
". . .zzz . . ."
". . .he's out cold . . ." Max said with surprise. "Why's that?"
". . .he's probably tired." Sami sighed. "Oh well . . .I'll drag him upstairs. Don't worry about it."
"That's not what I'm worried about." Max laughed.
"Max!"
"Sorry kiddo, I can't help it." The older officer teased. "Well then . . .take care eh?"
"Yeah . . .I will." Sami said. "C'mon Mel . . ."
"Huh . . .?"
"You blacked out again . . ."
"Izzat so?"
". . .yeah."
"Oh . . .sorry."
"Well . . .let's go." She let him lean on top of her shoulder as they walked off.
". . .thanks 'mi . . ." He said.
"Don't mention it Mel."
Time: The next morning,
Place: Orange Star HQ
"Mmm . . ." Sami yawned. "Ah . . .that was nice."
"Morning lazybones." Mel said from the door.
"Hmm . . ."
"You're up."
"Wha . . .of course I am . . .but I'm still sleepy . . ."
"NO . . .I mean you're up next."
"Oh fooey." She pouted.
"Quit whining." He said, "Or I'll drag you out dressed like that."
"Hey!" She blushed furiously. "I'm up, I'm up!"
"Good . . ." He nodded and left.
"Stupid missions . . ." She muttered as she tried to find her uniform. "Mel!"
"What?" He shouted from outside.
"I can't find my uniform." She said, standing in a pile of clothing.
". . .oh . . ." Mel said as he walked in. ". . .eh! You should button your shirt first Sami . . ." He said pointing to her partially exposed chest.
"Eek!" She quickly turned and fumbled with the buttons.
"Oh stop fidgeting" Mel said placing his hands on her shoulders. "Hold still . . ."
"Hmm . . .?"
"I saw it in the bathroom."
"Oh . . ."
"But it's kinda dirty so it's being cleaned right now."
"Oh . . ."
"Just wear your spare one now."
"Uh . . .I don't have a spare uniform." Sami admitted sheepishly.
". . .wha . . .!? Gimme a break!"
". . ."
"Whatever . . .just . . .I'll turn a blind eye today about protocols. If anyone asks, direct them to me."
"Okay . . ."
"Good . . .you want me to hang around for a bit more?" He asked.
"Hmm . . .no!"
"Why not!?"
"And let you watch me change!? You perv! Shoo!" She kicked him out of the room.
"All right then, bye 'mi."
"Hmph!" She turned her attention to the pile of clothing on the ground. "Now . . .what should I wear?"
"Another thing! Don't take so long!"
"Mel!!!" She shrieked at him. "I'll show you!"
"Show me what?" He asked as she walked out, still in a state of undress. "Oops . . .maybe I shouldn't have said that." He covered his eyes. "Cute 'mi, cute . . .but wearing only a t-shirt and panties can get you court-martialed . . ."
". . .huh? Yeek!!!" She dashed back inside.
". . .aiyaiyai . . .so much for being always ready to be on the go . . ." Mel sighed as he headed out.
Time: Later that day
Place: Orange Star Naval Transport 1
"Mel?" Sami sat in her hammock.
"I'm listening." Mel said as he lifted his bags into the storage compartment.
"How . . .no . . .what do you think of me?"
". . .this again?" Mel gave her a worried look. "You've asked this before . . ."
"Really . . .?"
"Yes." He nodded.
". . .tell me again anyway. It'll make me feel better."
"Feel better about what?"
"About being alone for a good half year or whatever it was."
". . .hmm . . .oh . . ." He looked thoughtfully at her. "Well . . ."
"Well what?"
"Well . . .will this answer your question?" He leaned over and gave her a kiss. "Hmm?"
". . ." She blushed. ". . .it tastes like coffee though Mel."
"So? Well anyway . . .we might as well enjoy the ride there . . .it'll be a while."
Place: Yellow Comet HQ
"Sonja!"
"Yes daddy?"
"What are we to do? The landing forces have arrived!"
". . .well . . ."
"Where is Mel!?"
"Uh . . ."
"Is he doing his duty?"
"Yes! Yes he is daddy!" Sonja said abruptly.
"All right then. I trust his judgment. It must be difficult to send his information there. But I shall prevail this time!"
". . .right daddy, right." Sonja sighed.
Time: 1:00 pm
Place: Orange Star HQ
". . .what the hell . . .?" Mel stood outside rubbing his chin thoughtfully. ". . .where's the battalion at?"
"Ah . . .Mel?"
"What Andy?"
"Nell just sent a communiqué."
"Yeah?"
"We don't have much a battalion here . . .we've got some bases though."
". . .well . . ."
"That's about it though. And . . .geez it looks scary out there." Andy said looking at the huge battalion that they were up against.
". . .huh . . ." Mel peered through his binoculars. "Our best bet is to mislead Kanbei then . . ."
"How?"
"You'll see. You'll see." He said.
"How?"
"Like I said. You'll see. This just requires some planning. That's all."
"Can't you just go and D strike them all to hell instead?"
". . .are . . .you . . .mad!?" Mel asked.
"What?"
"Gah . . .never mind you moron." 'Andy doesn't understand that if I do try and pull it off, I'll probably collapse . . .'
'Hmm . . .? Oh hello there Mel.'
' . . .you! Now what?'
'Nothing important. Just that . . .I'm feeling bored . . .'
'Meaning?'
'Nothing really . . .you'll see later.'
' . . .hmm.'
'Well . . .see you later then Mel.' The voice went silent.
". . ." Mel shook his head and headed into HQ.
Place: OS Command
"All right . . .what's the plan Mel?"
". . .well . . .judging by the looks of it . . .we need to block off the east bridge . . .and charge from the south."
"Sounds like it'll work."
". . .I hope it does. I don't want or need to do anything unnecessary . . ."
". . .how many days Mel?"
". . .I dunno . . .let's try for . . .ten . . ."
". . .all right then Mel . . .that seems doable."
'Let me deal with it Mel . . .' Came the voice.
'No.'
' . . .but I can destroy them all in one go . . .'
'That's exactly what I DON'T need. As well as the En drain.'
'Fine . . .let your cute little girlfriend deal with it then.'
'I will.'
'Fine . . .fine.' The voice went away again.
". . .damn . . .twice in one day . . ."
"What was that Mel?"
"Nothing Sami . . ."
"Hmm . . .it looked like you were talking to yourself again."
". . .well . . ."
"Whatever Mel, you're probably tired again. You don't worry about a thing. I'll deal with uncle Kanbei this time around."
". . .uncle . . .?"
"Remember? It's a pet name."
"Oh right."
"Now go . . .get some rest." She said.
". . .I think I will . . ." He nodded and left.
"Now then . . .everybody, move out!"
"Yes ma'am!"
Time: A week later . . .
"Mel!" Sami called out.
". . .yes?" He sat at his desk reading something.
". . .are you reading those comics again!?"
". . .what? You said not to worry about anything." Mel said as he put down the thirtieth volume of the manga he was reading.
". . .but you wasted the whole week reading those! I swear! You didn't even pay any attention to me!" She pouted.
". . .but . . .but I didn't want to distract you!"
". . .Mel! It was boring!"
". . .oh?"
"Kanbei has no strategic sense whatsoever! He's a great CO and all, but he has no common sense!"
". . .so true."
"You mean you know that!?"
"Uh . . .how can I put this . . .? Kanbei has trouble well . . .trouble doing things . . .well . . .how about an example?"
"Please."
". . .well . . .well . . .damn it! I don't know! I just know he lacks common sense in general!"
". . .fine. That'll work." Sami sighed. "Now then . . .d'you mind paying me at least a few minutes of your valuable attention Mel?" She asked sitting on his desk.
"Okay . . ." He shrugged. "What?"
"Hmm . . .do you want to do something after all this is over?"
"Huh . . .sure . . .sure thing Sami. It'll be a date."
"Heehee!"
". . .what's so funny?"
"It's been a while since I've heard that word."
". . .date?"
"Mm-hmm!"
"Oh . . .I'm sorry."
". . .sorry for what?"
". . .I'm sorry I left you Sami . . ."
". . .Mel . . ."
". . .well then . . .let's get this mission over and done with quickly then . . .then we'll see ne?"
". . .oh? Okay!"
Time: The next mission
Place: Yellow Comet Island
". . .eh . . .a property capturing mission . . .pfeh . . ." Sami shrugged. "It seems way too easy . . .even for me. Let Andy deal with it."
"Wha . . .? You want that incompetent dolt to deal with it?"
"Why not? It's not like he's that bad Mel. After all . . .if Sonja saw something good in him . . .it's bound to be good."
"True . . .true."
Place: Command Center
"Wha . . .you want me to do it?" Andy asked. "Aw man . . .I don't feel up to it. I was still reading manga . . ."
". . .just do it. You can read later or something." Mel said.
"But . . ."
"Here's a hint. Kanbei's common sense has kicked in again. He's captured a base that's in the middle of nowhere. Use that to your advantage and take the rest of those islands and ignore it."
"All right Mel. If you say so."
"Now then . . ." Sami said grabbing Mel's arm.
"Hmm?"
". . .if you don't mind Mel . . .come with me."
"But . . .but what about advising!?"
"Pfeh . . .Andy should be fine. It can't be that hard!"
". . .for his sake, I hope so." Mel said as he was dragged off.
Time: A few days into battle
Place: Yellow Comet HQ
"You! Boy! Why don't you come back and try again when you've matured!? Say in ten years!"
Place: Orange Star HQ
"What the!? Help! GUYS! HELP!!!"
Place: Lounge
". . .what was that?" Sami asked Mel, who was still reading.
". . .probably just Kanbei's Morale Boost or something. Nothing major to worry about."
"Mel! Pay attention when I'm talking to you!"
"Mm-hmm . . .hey . . .this character looks like you, but quieter and sweeter."
"Hey! I'm not sweet enough as it is?"
"Not when you're yelling at me . . ."
"But . . ."
"Oh hush. You're a lot nicer when you're half asleep."
"Mel!"
"Later, later. This is getting interesting."
Time: Later
Place: Communications
"Ah . . .officer Mel?"
"Yeah?"
"A communication for you."
"Okay . . .put it into my private line."
"There you go."
"Thanks. Hello?"
"Hello nii-chan." Sonja said in a sing-song way.
"Oh . . .Sonja."
"You're doing a good job fouling up daddy."
"I know . . .but I haven't done a thing since."
"That's the point. I've been giving him fake Intel, since I know how unreliable you are."
". . .hmph."
"Anyway . . .Gabe and Gary are ready to take on your friends . . .you need to get ready too . . ."
"But . . .I don't want to hurt them . . ."
"True . . .but you'll still have to do something about it."
"Huh . . .we'll see . . ."
"Anyway . . .how's Sami faring?"
"Just fine. She's a lot happier now."
"Good to hear."
"Well . . .anything else to ask me?"
"Could you knock them out for me?"
". . .whuh?"
"Well . . .later . . .later." Sonja said.
". . .uh . . .okay . . ."
"It's just that you're entering White Sun jurisdiction soon."
"Oh."
"Have fun then nii-chan. See you later."
"Right. Later Sonja-chan." Mel said hanging up.
"Hmm . . .who was that Mel?" Sami asked walking in.
"Oh just Sonja."
"How is she?"
"Just fine."
"Okay then." Sami said. "Andy's just about to finish it off."
"Oh . . .good."
"Now then . . .where's our next target?"
"I dunno . . .but . . .well . . .we'll see."
"Okay!" She smiled. "Let's hope with your help we'll win for sure!"
"Yeah . . .I hope so . . ." 'With my help . . .huh . . .you guys might lose . . .'
'Ooh . . .that Sonja's a sharp one.'
'What do you want now!?'
'Nothing really. Just to control your body.'
'WHAT!?'
"You heard me, I wanna take control.'
'HOW!?'
'You'll see . . .'
'Grr . . .'
'And you can't stop me. Heh.' The voice snickered.
'Really now? It's my body after all.'
'Oh you'll see. You'll see.'
'Hmm . . .whatever. You can't take over.'
'Fine . . .be that way.' The voice shut it self up again. 'Fool.'
". . .hmm."
". . .are you okay Mel?"
"Huh . . .yeah . . .I am . . .I guess." He said shaking his head.
". . .don't over do it . . ."
"I won't . . .don't worry about me."
"All right then Mel."
"Woo! We've won! We've won!"
"Oh, that's good." Mel said looking up at the screen showing Andy giving the 'Victory' sign.
"Now then . . .we're off now eh?" The boy asked.
"Yeah . . .well . . .no . . .not yet."
"Why?"
"We might as well take a break . . ."
"Oh! Sweet! Sounds like a plan!"
"All right then, all personnel to be off duty as of tomorrow." Mel ordered. 'Is this a . . .what the . . .I didn't want . . . – urk!'
'All right Mel, I told you I'd take control.'
'Who . . .who are you!?'
'Just this once . . .and remember it. The name is . . .Dark.' The voice said sinisterly, as he overwhelmed Mel's will and took over.
"Now then . . .time to take a break." 'Mel' said.
Time: That night
Place: Orange Star HQ
"All is planned Sonja . . ."
"Very well nii-chan. Proceed in utilizing the knock out gas."
"You heard her you two. Get to it."
"All right Mel." Gabe nodded. "Everything's been set up. Our men are outside ready to move everybody to the specified locations."
"Like ninja-man said." Gary said looking at a clipboard, "Everything's going as planned Miss Sonja."
"Okay then. Now be careful. We can't have any slip-ups. You three are going to beat Orange Star into a pulp so that our mystery foe will be lulled into a false sense of security."
". . .are you sure beating them is the best idea?" Mel asked.
"But of course . . .considering that you three are almost incapable of defeat . . ."
". . .hmm. All right Sonja, if you say so. All White Sun personnel, outside, now." Mel said as the three of them crept out of the HQ.
"All right . . .we're out."
"Release the gas devices."
"Releasing." Gary said, as the sound of gas hissing filled the night air.
"Now then . . .send in the men to take all the personnel and officers."
"Okay . . ."
"Another thing though . . ."
"What?"
"Leave Sami to me." Mel said.
"Okay Mel . . ." Gary nodded.
". . ."
'Damn you!'
'Sorry Mel, but an order's an order.'
'Dammit! Give me control of my body!'
'Not yet . . .not until we finish this . . .'
'This what!?'
'This scheme to lure out our hidden foe . . .'
'Whose side are you on anyway!? I can't hurt my friends!'
'You're not going to.'
'Oh good . . .'
'I am. Now be quiet.' Dark smiled darkly. (A/N . . .okay . . .that was bad) "Everyone . . .prepare for battle. This'll be fun."
'Dark! Damn it! Dark! Gah . . .it's no use . . .I'll have to fight my way back then.'
Place: Mel's . . .mind!?
Mel stood in a darkness which could only be identified as the recesses of his own conscience.
". . .well then . . .this'll be some hell of a fight . . .best get to work . . .and . . ." He pinched himself. ". . .nothing. I guess I won't be able to feel anything while in . . .my own mind. Good . . .that means I don't need to eat or sleep . . .well . . .let's go." He started running ahead into the darkness . . .
End of Chapter
Commanding Officer Mel
Disclaimer: I still don't own the company that made Advance Wars but I do own a copy of the game as usual.
Author's note - And anything that is in Romanji or Pinyin and base Cantonese will be translated, or stated otherwise. Read And Review!
Orange Star had prepared their naval transport across the Cometan Sea to their next destination, Yellow Comet.
"Ah . . .the air's nice here." Sami said leaning along the side rail of the transport.
"Uh huh . . ." Mel sat on deck strumming his guitar as Andy hummed the tune.
"Andy! Quit your humming! I'm trying to enjoy the music!" Max said laughing.
"Hey! I sing better than I hum!"
"I know! But Mel's guitar sounds a lot better!"
"Huh! Be that way then!" Andy headed off to his quarters.
". . .that was mean Max." Sami said.
"It's all in good fun, right Mel?" Max asked.
". . .huh. Sure." Mel said.
"Not completely there are you?"
". . .whatever." Mel said. "Just stay on my good side Max, or you'll risk getting blown back to Orange Star."
"Wha . . .?"
"I'm kidding." Mel said. "Hmm . . .Yellow Comet. It's been a while."
"Yeah . . ." Sami said. ". . .well unless you count that vacation we took."
". . .hmm. I wonder if they'll attack us too?"
"You never know . . ." She said shading her eyes.
". . .hmm."
"Hey Mel . . ."
"Yeah?"
". . .do you think I should dye my hair?"
". . .what for?"
". . .too fit in."
"Fit in?"
"To fit in with you and your group of friends. I'm the only one with red hair after all." She said playing with a few strands of her hair.
". . .you mean to dye it brown?"
"More or less."
"Nah . . .it looks cute that way. Leave it."
". . .mmm. All right then!"
". . .ah." He stood up and put away his guitar.
"What?"
". . .nothing." He stood next to her against the railing and leaned over. "How are you holding out?"
". . .huh?"
". . ."
". . .well . . .it's been hard . . .and different now."
"Different?"
"Yeah . . .since it's a bit odd that your field commander is your boyfriend . . ."
"Ah . . ."
"But I guess it has it's benefits. I can spend time with you again."
". . .true." He nodded. "But there's something that's been bugging me for a while."
". . .really why?"
"This entire way . . .there's something about it that just doesn't make sense."
". . .weird."
"Yeah . . .it is weird." Mel said as he stared off into the horizon.
Place: Yellow Comet Capital
". . .Sonja!"
". . .hmm?" Sonja walked in sleepily. "What's the matter daddy?"
". . .Orange Star has arrived to attack us!"
". . .don't be ridiculous! Why on earth would the Orange Star army attack us?" Sonja argued.
"Simple! They are not content with what they have! Call the White Sun army to our aid as well!"
". . .but of course. I'll alert them right away." She then walked off. ' . . .daddy's overreacting AGAIN. Honestly. It's just Mel and his friends . . .'
"Sonja! GO!" Kanbei shouted.
". . .I'm working on it father!" She shouted back as she started typing in the frequency for the White Sun forces.
". . .hello." Gary said, looking very bored.
"Gary! This is . . .sort of important!"
". . .what is?" He adjusted his glasses. "I don't really care."
"You listen up right now!" Sonja said slamming her fist on the screen.
". . .what?"
". . .call Gabe or whoever and tell them this IS important!"
". . .yeah . . .sure . . .I understand."
"NO YOU DO NOT!"
". . .there's no need to get all angry Miss Sonja." Gary continued.
"Euh? Who're you talking to?" Gabe said walking in front of the screen. "Oh. Hi Sonja."
"Grr!!! YOU TWO IDIOTS WILL LISTEN TO ME!"
". . ." The two White Sun officers just stared blankly at her. "What?"
"Mel and the rest of them are entering Yellow Comet territory! And . . .and well father wants YOU two to . . .well . . . 'stop' them."
". . .Mel? Oh is that all?" Gabe said. "Meh."
". . .you understand right?"
"Yep. Leave it to us." Gabe signed off.
". . .idiots . . ." Sonja groaned.
Time: Mid-morning
Place: Orange Star Encampment
"Hmm . . ." Mel thought to himself as he peered through a pair of binoculars.
"What's going on?" Andy asked.
". . .Sonja's dad is in our way."
". . .Huh!? Kanbei!?"
"Seems so."
". . .that's no good." Andy said.
"Hmm? What's up you two?" Sami said as she walked out.
". . .Kanbei's imperial army is in our way." Mel said putting down the binoculars.
"Oh . . ."
"Yeah . . .
"Maybe we should call him up and talk some sense into him." Sami said rather annoyed.
"I'll go try and do that." Mel offered. "He should listen to me . . .I hope."
"Mel . . .you do that. And make it quick!" Sami nodded.
"Right . . .before I go though . . . Max! You're in command!" Mel walked out.
". . .all right! Let's rock!"
Place: Plains of Yellow Comet
Mel made his way across the green fields.
". . .eh . . .it seems so . . .empty." He said. That was until the whistling sound of a rockets was heard. ". . .?"
'BOOM!'
". . .why . . .me?" Mel said standing inches from a crater by his feet.
"Did we get him!?" Mel heard some soldiers say.
". . .you JERKS!" Mel said running towards the nearest rocket unit.
". . .EH!? It's commander – "
"DIE!" Mel's foot wrapped in flames smashed cleanly into one of the rockets, sending it flying.
". . .did . . .did . . .did he just KICK A ROCKET INTO THE AIR!?"
". . .ahem . . .why are you guys shooting at me!?" Mel demanded the soldiers.
". . .uh . . .uh . . ."
"Whatever! I'm going to talk to the Emperor, so if you'll excuse me . . ." He walked off, not before he managed to boot another rocket into the air.
". . .he's a monster . . ." The soldiers muttered among themselves.
Place: Orange Star HQ
". . .huh!?" Max looked at the map confused.
". . .what's the matter?" Andy asked.
". . .that . . .that rocket unit was just attacked, but none of our units have even mobilized yet!"
". . .so?"
". . .that's weird . . ."
"What the heck are you two going on about?" Sami asked.
". . .look."
". . .hmm?" She looked at the screen. "So?"
". . .it just got damaged!"
". . .oh! Well . . .whatever it was . . .that's good right?"
". . .yeah . . .but we didn't attack it yet . . ." Andy said.
". . .oh . . .well then." Sami scratched her head. "Odd."
". . .hmm."
". . .wait!" The girl said.
". . .what!?"
"Knowing Mel . . .he probably might have had something to do with this." Sami simply said.
". . .don't tell me Mel can just go and . . ." Max was then interrupted as the radar detected something flying straight at the HQ. "What's that!?"
'WHAM!'
". . .Uh . . .Max sir?" A tech said.
"What!?"
". . .an enemy tank has just landed into our front compound . . ." She said, before she passed out from shock.
". . .don't believe me Max?" Sami said with a smirk.
". . .wha . . .wha . . .whoa." Max was in a state of disbelief.
". . .I better make sure he's not up to no good." The girl said leaving the room.
". . .well there goes the world." Andy muttered.
Place: Yellow Comet HQ
"Who intrudes on Kanbei!?" Came a shout.
"Father . . .it's only just a . . ." Sonja said as she and her father turned the corner to meet the uninvited guest head on. ". . .EH!? Nii- chan!?"
"I'm back Sonja." Mel said messing up her hair.
"What are you doing here!?"
"Uh . . .we were trying to pass through . . .but your father's forces seems to be in our way."
"Are you saying you are INVADING!?" Kanbei said.
". . .not really." Mel said shrugging.
"Then what are you doing here!?"
". . .finding Olaf." Mel said, as he followed Kanbei and Sonja to the communications room.
". . ." Kanbei looked at the com-link screen and spotted Andy, Max and Sami waving. "AHA! That's the one that did this! That . . .that Andy!"
"Andy!? No, no, no, no, no, no! It's not really him it's a – " Sonja tried to reason.
"Men! Prepare to ride out to victory!" Kanbei shouted.
". . .crap." Mel groaned. "GUYS! DO SOMETHING NOW!" Mel shouted at them through the screen.
"Another thing Mel! You must not communicate with the enemy! You must take command of the White Sun again!"
"But you don't understand! I just – "
"Whatever you are about to say does not matter now! You will do as you are commanded! Take command and prepare to crush our foe!"
". . .god." Mel muttered. "Uh . . .let me get my stuff first. And perhaps I shall 'infiltrate' within the enemy base and what not . . ."
"Very well! That is an excellent plot! But you MUST come back!"
". . .will you see me out Sonja?"
". . .all right nii – HEY!" Sonja shouted as Mel dragged her with him to the door.
"Didn't you explain to your father that those things ARE NOT Andy!?"
"Uh . . .no. He wouldn't listen . . .and if he asked why I'd know . . .then he'd know I have a boyfriend and stuff . . ."
". . .RIGHT."
"Okay . . .what are you going to do!?"
"I'll fake some battles or something . . .just like you."
"Just like . . .huh?"
"Okay . . .when Orange Star is done mopping up father's forces . . .you knock them out and separate them . . .I have a plan to lure out our enigmatic foe."
". . .ah."
"And since you're . . . supposed to be 'infiltrating' so to speak, you can muddle up father's strategy with faulty Intel and so on."
". . ."
"Another thing . . ."
"What?"
"If you remember that Christmas . . .I've found some sort of connection."
". . .Black units . . .of course. But then . . .how are we gonna find him?"
"Grit's told me that Olaf's going to meet 'that' man."
". . .him. That . . .thing. He's the reason I'm suffering."
"Don't fret about it Mel. I'll find a way."
". . .I hope it'll work. And be careful." Mel said hugging his childhood playmate before he left.
". . .you too nii-chan. You too . . .oh! And say hi to Andy for me!"
"Okay then!" Mel said as he ran off through the tanks and their confused drivers. That was, before he returned to HQ, he made sure he sabotaged a good number of the Yellow Comet units first.
Time: About an hour or so later
Place: Orange Star HQ
"Mel?" Sami asked as a streak of white dashed right past her.
"Nothing important! Got to go, love you, bye!" He said in a single breath as he grabbed his things and ran out the door.
". . .wha?" She stood there confused. Then he ran back in.
"Oh yeah, tell Andy Sonja said hi. Now bye!" He ran out again.
". . .Huh!?" Sami blinked, looking very confused. "Where's he off to again!? We need a strategist . . .Mel!"
"Sorry! Maybe later!"
". . .grr." She took a deep breath. "MEL!!!" He froze in mid step.
". . .(gulp) Yes?" He said turning around.
"What-are-you-doing?" She asked.
"Uh . . .I was . . .uh . . ."
"You're staying here. We need your help."
". . .right. I'm NOT supposed to be there. Right." He muttered to himself.
". . .what?"
"Never mind."
"What do you mean never mind? We just saw as Kanbei re-enlisted you. You're staying."
"How'd . . .you know?"
"Sonja left the com-link on for us."
". . .oh. But then . . ." He was worried if they heard about the 'other' plan.
"I don't care what Kanbei said! Just stay right here!"
". . .fine." Mel said nodding.
Time: A week later
Place: Orange Star HQ
As the 'battle' raged on, Mel sighed as he looked out the window, then spat bitterly.
". . .this is stupid and pointless. How many more lives must be lost to achieve something like this?" He said to himself as he watched the orange units smash the Imperial forces to pieces.
"What's the matter?" Sami asked as she walked in. She sensed a 'killing' aura coming from the room, which gave her the chills.
". . .nothing of importance." He said, stepping away from the window.
". . .we're almost done this time around." She said.
"I know."
". . .hmm . . .want to go get some fresh air? It might do you some good, you know?"
". . .hmm . . .why not? Let's go by those mountains there."
". . .okay. C'mon then, let's go." She said heading for the door.
". . .why are you doing that?"
"Doing what?"
"Going out the door?"
". . .aren't we gonna go out that way?"
"Not if I can help it." He swept her off her feet and carried her to the window.
". . .what . . .what are you doing!?"
"We're gonna jump! Hold on!"
". . .you're crazy! It's 10 stories up!"
"So? That never hurt anyone." Mel said smiling.
"I'm not too sure about – yeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeek!" Sami screamed as Mel jumped out the window and the two of them were free-falling towards the fields . . .
Place: Yellow Comet HQ
"Inconceivable! I lost!" Kanbei said with disgust.
". . .you did daddy?" Sonja said.
"Yes! We must withdraw from here! But . . .why isn't Mel of any help right now!?"
". . .I'm not sure daddy." Sonja shrugged. 'Hopefully he's doing something to foul you up or something . . .' "He must be trying to find an ideal time to escape or something."
"Very well! We shall strike again!"
". . .of course daddy." Sonja sighed. 'Nii-chan . . .be careful now.'
Place: Orange Star HQ
"Mel?" Andy said as he peered into the office. "Where are you?"
". . ." No answer.
". . .weird." Andy made his way to the dorms. 'Must be here. There's nowhere else left.' He thought to himself. "Hey! Mel?"
". . ." Still nothing.
"Where on earth is he?" Andy walked into the room and looked around. Heading towards the open window, Andy stuck his head out and took a deep breath of fresh air. "Ah . . .Yellow Comet's a nice place to be . . .huh?" He looked outside and saw what looked like two people landing next to the mountains.
Place: Base of a mountain
". . .you're crazy." Sami simply said as she tried to get up from landing on top of Mel.
". . .can you please get off? I can't feel my spleen . . ."
". . .you know it's not a good idea to jump out of a building like that. I don't CARE if you can. It's dangerous enough as it is by yourself! And what are you, stupid!? You bring me along for the ride too! That's insane!"
". . .ah . . .sorry 'mi."
". . .hmph! Well . . .at least you made a good landing." She said getting up.
". . .gimme a hand here . . ." Mel said, struggling to stand.
". . .aiya . . ." She sighed. "You're more troublesome than you look Mel . . ." She said helping him up.
"Heh . . .I didn't expect an extra hundred something pounds would do anything . . ."
". . ."
". . .well . . .it's been a while . . .but here's Yellow Comet again."
"Yeah . . ." Sami inhaled deeply.
". . .it's nice." He said staring at the clear skies.
". . .you think we should have told the others we left?"
"Nah . . ."
". . .okay."
"So how has it been?" Mel asked sitting down on a large rock. "We need to catch up some more."
"Hmm? Oh . . .sure." She sat next to him on the rock, and leaned against him. "It's been far too long."
". . .has it?"
"Since June until now? Yeah, it's been almost a year."
"Wow . . .that is long . . ." Mel said.
"Hmm . . .it was tough to get by . . .I was so lonely and bored . . ." She sighed.
". . ." He remained silent.
". . .I didn't want to talk . . .and . . .all your letters didn't help either . . ."
". . .sorry." He said.
". . .it's okay . . ."
". . .oh well . . ."
Time: Hours later
"Let's go back Sami."
". . .good idea . . .I'm hungry."
". . .hmm."
"Help me up will you?" She said.
"Sure."
"Too bad everything nowadays is so messed up."
"Yeah . . .tank heaps, bodies . . .gas . . .the whole mess." Mel spat.
"At least we're still alive."
"Yeah . . .at least we are. Come on, get up . . .you've been napping there for the last three hours . . .the others are probably worried."
". . .mmm. Kay . . ." She sat up.
". . .fine . . ." Mel sighed. "I'll carry you back."
". . .okay." She felt herself get lifted onto his back. ". . .mmm."
"Well then, let's go."
Time: An hour later
"Oh geez . . .I can't keep this up forever you know?"
""Hmph . . ." She pressed closer against him. "Don't care." She closed her eyes.
"You're such a kid." He groaned.
". . ."
"You've gotten lighter . . ." He suddenly mentioned.
"Hmm . . .probably."
"Why?"
"I haven't eaten a proper meal in the last few months . . .that's all. I lost weight."
"Izzat so . . .I won't stop you, unless you want to wither away 'mi."
"Mel!"
"Sorry . . ." He laughed. "But you know . . .I can't feel my back anymore . . ."
". . .oh."
". . .can you walk?"
"Perfectly."
". . .then why don't you?"
". . .cuz I don't feel like it."
". . .ugh."
". . .hmm."
"Sorry Sami but . . .you gotta get off." He said as he fell face down onto the grass. "Oof . . ."
". . .hmm. But Mel . . ."
"What?"
". . .we're only a few feet from the door . . ."
". . .urk." He groaned. ". . .I don't believe it . . ."
Time: Later that night
Place: Lounge
"Mel, Mel, Mel, Mel, Mel, Mel . . .!" Sami was now sitting on top of his back after she had knocked him over from behind.
". . ."
"You okay Mel?" Max asked as he watched the scene unfold before him. "You look pained."
"Blah." Mel muttered. "She's like an oversized kitten or something."
"No I'm not!"
"Then get off my back!"
"No!"
"Why not!?"
"I dunno." She shrugged.
". . .guh . . ." Mel's face hit the ground again. "Gimme a break . . ."
". . .poo." Sami pouted as she got off his back.
". . ."
". . .ooh . . .fooey." Sami poked him.
". . ."
"Hmm . . .?"
". . .zzz . . ."
". . .he's out cold . . ." Max said with surprise. "Why's that?"
". . .he's probably tired." Sami sighed. "Oh well . . .I'll drag him upstairs. Don't worry about it."
"That's not what I'm worried about." Max laughed.
"Max!"
"Sorry kiddo, I can't help it." The older officer teased. "Well then . . .take care eh?"
"Yeah . . .I will." Sami said. "C'mon Mel . . ."
"Huh . . .?"
"You blacked out again . . ."
"Izzat so?"
". . .yeah."
"Oh . . .sorry."
"Well . . .let's go." She let him lean on top of her shoulder as they walked off.
". . .thanks 'mi . . ." He said.
"Don't mention it Mel."
Time: The next morning,
Place: Orange Star HQ
"Mmm . . ." Sami yawned. "Ah . . .that was nice."
"Morning lazybones." Mel said from the door.
"Hmm . . ."
"You're up."
"Wha . . .of course I am . . .but I'm still sleepy . . ."
"NO . . .I mean you're up next."
"Oh fooey." She pouted.
"Quit whining." He said, "Or I'll drag you out dressed like that."
"Hey!" She blushed furiously. "I'm up, I'm up!"
"Good . . ." He nodded and left.
"Stupid missions . . ." She muttered as she tried to find her uniform. "Mel!"
"What?" He shouted from outside.
"I can't find my uniform." She said, standing in a pile of clothing.
". . .oh . . ." Mel said as he walked in. ". . .eh! You should button your shirt first Sami . . ." He said pointing to her partially exposed chest.
"Eek!" She quickly turned and fumbled with the buttons.
"Oh stop fidgeting" Mel said placing his hands on her shoulders. "Hold still . . ."
"Hmm . . .?"
"I saw it in the bathroom."
"Oh . . ."
"But it's kinda dirty so it's being cleaned right now."
"Oh . . ."
"Just wear your spare one now."
"Uh . . .I don't have a spare uniform." Sami admitted sheepishly.
". . .wha . . .!? Gimme a break!"
". . ."
"Whatever . . .just . . .I'll turn a blind eye today about protocols. If anyone asks, direct them to me."
"Okay . . ."
"Good . . .you want me to hang around for a bit more?" He asked.
"Hmm . . .no!"
"Why not!?"
"And let you watch me change!? You perv! Shoo!" She kicked him out of the room.
"All right then, bye 'mi."
"Hmph!" She turned her attention to the pile of clothing on the ground. "Now . . .what should I wear?"
"Another thing! Don't take so long!"
"Mel!!!" She shrieked at him. "I'll show you!"
"Show me what?" He asked as she walked out, still in a state of undress. "Oops . . .maybe I shouldn't have said that." He covered his eyes. "Cute 'mi, cute . . .but wearing only a t-shirt and panties can get you court-martialed . . ."
". . .huh? Yeek!!!" She dashed back inside.
". . .aiyaiyai . . .so much for being always ready to be on the go . . ." Mel sighed as he headed out.
Time: Later that day
Place: Orange Star Naval Transport 1
"Mel?" Sami sat in her hammock.
"I'm listening." Mel said as he lifted his bags into the storage compartment.
"How . . .no . . .what do you think of me?"
". . .this again?" Mel gave her a worried look. "You've asked this before . . ."
"Really . . .?"
"Yes." He nodded.
". . .tell me again anyway. It'll make me feel better."
"Feel better about what?"
"About being alone for a good half year or whatever it was."
". . .hmm . . .oh . . ." He looked thoughtfully at her. "Well . . ."
"Well what?"
"Well . . .will this answer your question?" He leaned over and gave her a kiss. "Hmm?"
". . ." She blushed. ". . .it tastes like coffee though Mel."
"So? Well anyway . . .we might as well enjoy the ride there . . .it'll be a while."
Place: Yellow Comet HQ
"Sonja!"
"Yes daddy?"
"What are we to do? The landing forces have arrived!"
". . .well . . ."
"Where is Mel!?"
"Uh . . ."
"Is he doing his duty?"
"Yes! Yes he is daddy!" Sonja said abruptly.
"All right then. I trust his judgment. It must be difficult to send his information there. But I shall prevail this time!"
". . .right daddy, right." Sonja sighed.
Time: 1:00 pm
Place: Orange Star HQ
". . .what the hell . . .?" Mel stood outside rubbing his chin thoughtfully. ". . .where's the battalion at?"
"Ah . . .Mel?"
"What Andy?"
"Nell just sent a communiqué."
"Yeah?"
"We don't have much a battalion here . . .we've got some bases though."
". . .well . . ."
"That's about it though. And . . .geez it looks scary out there." Andy said looking at the huge battalion that they were up against.
". . .huh . . ." Mel peered through his binoculars. "Our best bet is to mislead Kanbei then . . ."
"How?"
"You'll see. You'll see." He said.
"How?"
"Like I said. You'll see. This just requires some planning. That's all."
"Can't you just go and D strike them all to hell instead?"
". . .are . . .you . . .mad!?" Mel asked.
"What?"
"Gah . . .never mind you moron." 'Andy doesn't understand that if I do try and pull it off, I'll probably collapse . . .'
'Hmm . . .? Oh hello there Mel.'
' . . .you! Now what?'
'Nothing important. Just that . . .I'm feeling bored . . .'
'Meaning?'
'Nothing really . . .you'll see later.'
' . . .hmm.'
'Well . . .see you later then Mel.' The voice went silent.
". . ." Mel shook his head and headed into HQ.
Place: OS Command
"All right . . .what's the plan Mel?"
". . .well . . .judging by the looks of it . . .we need to block off the east bridge . . .and charge from the south."
"Sounds like it'll work."
". . .I hope it does. I don't want or need to do anything unnecessary . . ."
". . .how many days Mel?"
". . .I dunno . . .let's try for . . .ten . . ."
". . .all right then Mel . . .that seems doable."
'Let me deal with it Mel . . .' Came the voice.
'No.'
' . . .but I can destroy them all in one go . . .'
'That's exactly what I DON'T need. As well as the En drain.'
'Fine . . .let your cute little girlfriend deal with it then.'
'I will.'
'Fine . . .fine.' The voice went away again.
". . .damn . . .twice in one day . . ."
"What was that Mel?"
"Nothing Sami . . ."
"Hmm . . .it looked like you were talking to yourself again."
". . .well . . ."
"Whatever Mel, you're probably tired again. You don't worry about a thing. I'll deal with uncle Kanbei this time around."
". . .uncle . . .?"
"Remember? It's a pet name."
"Oh right."
"Now go . . .get some rest." She said.
". . .I think I will . . ." He nodded and left.
"Now then . . .everybody, move out!"
"Yes ma'am!"
Time: A week later . . .
"Mel!" Sami called out.
". . .yes?" He sat at his desk reading something.
". . .are you reading those comics again!?"
". . .what? You said not to worry about anything." Mel said as he put down the thirtieth volume of the manga he was reading.
". . .but you wasted the whole week reading those! I swear! You didn't even pay any attention to me!" She pouted.
". . .but . . .but I didn't want to distract you!"
". . .Mel! It was boring!"
". . .oh?"
"Kanbei has no strategic sense whatsoever! He's a great CO and all, but he has no common sense!"
". . .so true."
"You mean you know that!?"
"Uh . . .how can I put this . . .? Kanbei has trouble well . . .trouble doing things . . .well . . .how about an example?"
"Please."
". . .well . . .well . . .damn it! I don't know! I just know he lacks common sense in general!"
". . .fine. That'll work." Sami sighed. "Now then . . .d'you mind paying me at least a few minutes of your valuable attention Mel?" She asked sitting on his desk.
"Okay . . ." He shrugged. "What?"
"Hmm . . .do you want to do something after all this is over?"
"Huh . . .sure . . .sure thing Sami. It'll be a date."
"Heehee!"
". . .what's so funny?"
"It's been a while since I've heard that word."
". . .date?"
"Mm-hmm!"
"Oh . . .I'm sorry."
". . .sorry for what?"
". . .I'm sorry I left you Sami . . ."
". . .Mel . . ."
". . .well then . . .let's get this mission over and done with quickly then . . .then we'll see ne?"
". . .oh? Okay!"
Time: The next mission
Place: Yellow Comet Island
". . .eh . . .a property capturing mission . . .pfeh . . ." Sami shrugged. "It seems way too easy . . .even for me. Let Andy deal with it."
"Wha . . .? You want that incompetent dolt to deal with it?"
"Why not? It's not like he's that bad Mel. After all . . .if Sonja saw something good in him . . .it's bound to be good."
"True . . .true."
Place: Command Center
"Wha . . .you want me to do it?" Andy asked. "Aw man . . .I don't feel up to it. I was still reading manga . . ."
". . .just do it. You can read later or something." Mel said.
"But . . ."
"Here's a hint. Kanbei's common sense has kicked in again. He's captured a base that's in the middle of nowhere. Use that to your advantage and take the rest of those islands and ignore it."
"All right Mel. If you say so."
"Now then . . ." Sami said grabbing Mel's arm.
"Hmm?"
". . .if you don't mind Mel . . .come with me."
"But . . .but what about advising!?"
"Pfeh . . .Andy should be fine. It can't be that hard!"
". . .for his sake, I hope so." Mel said as he was dragged off.
Time: A few days into battle
Place: Yellow Comet HQ
"You! Boy! Why don't you come back and try again when you've matured!? Say in ten years!"
Place: Orange Star HQ
"What the!? Help! GUYS! HELP!!!"
Place: Lounge
". . .what was that?" Sami asked Mel, who was still reading.
". . .probably just Kanbei's Morale Boost or something. Nothing major to worry about."
"Mel! Pay attention when I'm talking to you!"
"Mm-hmm . . .hey . . .this character looks like you, but quieter and sweeter."
"Hey! I'm not sweet enough as it is?"
"Not when you're yelling at me . . ."
"But . . ."
"Oh hush. You're a lot nicer when you're half asleep."
"Mel!"
"Later, later. This is getting interesting."
Time: Later
Place: Communications
"Ah . . .officer Mel?"
"Yeah?"
"A communication for you."
"Okay . . .put it into my private line."
"There you go."
"Thanks. Hello?"
"Hello nii-chan." Sonja said in a sing-song way.
"Oh . . .Sonja."
"You're doing a good job fouling up daddy."
"I know . . .but I haven't done a thing since."
"That's the point. I've been giving him fake Intel, since I know how unreliable you are."
". . .hmph."
"Anyway . . .Gabe and Gary are ready to take on your friends . . .you need to get ready too . . ."
"But . . .I don't want to hurt them . . ."
"True . . .but you'll still have to do something about it."
"Huh . . .we'll see . . ."
"Anyway . . .how's Sami faring?"
"Just fine. She's a lot happier now."
"Good to hear."
"Well . . .anything else to ask me?"
"Could you knock them out for me?"
". . .whuh?"
"Well . . .later . . .later." Sonja said.
". . .uh . . .okay . . ."
"It's just that you're entering White Sun jurisdiction soon."
"Oh."
"Have fun then nii-chan. See you later."
"Right. Later Sonja-chan." Mel said hanging up.
"Hmm . . .who was that Mel?" Sami asked walking in.
"Oh just Sonja."
"How is she?"
"Just fine."
"Okay then." Sami said. "Andy's just about to finish it off."
"Oh . . .good."
"Now then . . .where's our next target?"
"I dunno . . .but . . .well . . .we'll see."
"Okay!" She smiled. "Let's hope with your help we'll win for sure!"
"Yeah . . .I hope so . . ." 'With my help . . .huh . . .you guys might lose . . .'
'Ooh . . .that Sonja's a sharp one.'
'What do you want now!?'
'Nothing really. Just to control your body.'
'WHAT!?'
"You heard me, I wanna take control.'
'HOW!?'
'You'll see . . .'
'Grr . . .'
'And you can't stop me. Heh.' The voice snickered.
'Really now? It's my body after all.'
'Oh you'll see. You'll see.'
'Hmm . . .whatever. You can't take over.'
'Fine . . .be that way.' The voice shut it self up again. 'Fool.'
". . .hmm."
". . .are you okay Mel?"
"Huh . . .yeah . . .I am . . .I guess." He said shaking his head.
". . .don't over do it . . ."
"I won't . . .don't worry about me."
"All right then Mel."
"Woo! We've won! We've won!"
"Oh, that's good." Mel said looking up at the screen showing Andy giving the 'Victory' sign.
"Now then . . .we're off now eh?" The boy asked.
"Yeah . . .well . . .no . . .not yet."
"Why?"
"We might as well take a break . . ."
"Oh! Sweet! Sounds like a plan!"
"All right then, all personnel to be off duty as of tomorrow." Mel ordered. 'Is this a . . .what the . . .I didn't want . . . – urk!'
'All right Mel, I told you I'd take control.'
'Who . . .who are you!?'
'Just this once . . .and remember it. The name is . . .Dark.' The voice said sinisterly, as he overwhelmed Mel's will and took over.
"Now then . . .time to take a break." 'Mel' said.
Time: That night
Place: Orange Star HQ
"All is planned Sonja . . ."
"Very well nii-chan. Proceed in utilizing the knock out gas."
"You heard her you two. Get to it."
"All right Mel." Gabe nodded. "Everything's been set up. Our men are outside ready to move everybody to the specified locations."
"Like ninja-man said." Gary said looking at a clipboard, "Everything's going as planned Miss Sonja."
"Okay then. Now be careful. We can't have any slip-ups. You three are going to beat Orange Star into a pulp so that our mystery foe will be lulled into a false sense of security."
". . .are you sure beating them is the best idea?" Mel asked.
"But of course . . .considering that you three are almost incapable of defeat . . ."
". . .hmm. All right Sonja, if you say so. All White Sun personnel, outside, now." Mel said as the three of them crept out of the HQ.
"All right . . .we're out."
"Release the gas devices."
"Releasing." Gary said, as the sound of gas hissing filled the night air.
"Now then . . .send in the men to take all the personnel and officers."
"Okay . . ."
"Another thing though . . ."
"What?"
"Leave Sami to me." Mel said.
"Okay Mel . . ." Gary nodded.
". . ."
'Damn you!'
'Sorry Mel, but an order's an order.'
'Dammit! Give me control of my body!'
'Not yet . . .not until we finish this . . .'
'This what!?'
'This scheme to lure out our hidden foe . . .'
'Whose side are you on anyway!? I can't hurt my friends!'
'You're not going to.'
'Oh good . . .'
'I am. Now be quiet.' Dark smiled darkly. (A/N . . .okay . . .that was bad) "Everyone . . .prepare for battle. This'll be fun."
'Dark! Damn it! Dark! Gah . . .it's no use . . .I'll have to fight my way back then.'
Place: Mel's . . .mind!?
Mel stood in a darkness which could only be identified as the recesses of his own conscience.
". . .well then . . .this'll be some hell of a fight . . .best get to work . . .and . . ." He pinched himself. ". . .nothing. I guess I won't be able to feel anything while in . . .my own mind. Good . . .that means I don't need to eat or sleep . . .well . . .let's go." He started running ahead into the darkness . . .
End of Chapter