Muv-Luv Reversal

by Zuoriel

Takeru has been leading a normal life until now. During the summer vacation of his second year in college he's invited by his high school friends to meet up again, to which he agrees. Shirogane doesn't know that this decision would release the nightmares that have been haunting him for some time, nightmares that would be better left forgotten.

11. Sore Point

2nd Arc: Distrust

Chapter 11: Sore Point

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October 31st. 05:42 PM.

(Classroom.)

[Takeru]

---

The sun was already done with today's shift, leaving its post up there. In the same way that the sky is losing its afterglow, the classroom was filling with the quick scribbling of our notes as they muttered our faint complains, that we could not voice out.

A few pages were turned and, without waiting a second, she placed, or almost slammed, a hand on her desk.

"Next question!" Wow, Marimo-chan is not easing up today, huh?

She looks at us, to make sure we were paying attention and were on the right page, and then begins to tackle the next assignment.

"You are stranded on enemy territory, fleeing from an infiltration mission and carrying valuable data with you. Two enemy units located some two hundred meters to your ten and two respectively are stationed on a cliff, and they have a clear aim at you. You all managed to arrive to a safe location behind some trees, where they cannot snipe you."

Still holding the book, she goes to the blackboard and begins to draw in it the images found within the pages using blue chalk to mark our units. When she was done with it she leaves it on top of her desk and then picks up a diluted orange one and begins to press it as she marks the enemies' positions, sending a small piece of chalk flying about.

"However, as you were crossing open terrain, some of your comrades were left behind as the assault from the cliffs scattered you. They cannot move from their current position or the enemy units will snipe them on the spot, and they will surely be either killed or captured if you do nothing. You know that reinforcements will not be arriving for at least ten minutes to extract you from the field, however they'll have to deal with the rest of the hostiles in the area to keep you safe, and the window of time you have to board your ride is very small. You also cannot rule out the possibility that you could also run into other chaser units as you proceed from now on."

She stops drawing and we focus onto the rest of the problem on the book, she holds it up as if she were practicing for a play while eyeing us to make sure we were keeping up. I couldn't help but to arch my brows a bit when she stared at me for a sec too long.

"You're low on ammo, have no sniping rifles or smoke grenades with you, and you are only halfway to the designated escape point. However, those comrades who were left behind had part of the intel you gathered during this mission. Regardless, you cannot rush to their aid or you risk being sniped, and every second matters in the field. Therefore, you must make a decision quickly. Do you proceed to the extraction point and leave your comrades behind; or do you devise a plan to rescue them?" She then lowered the book, giving us some seconds to ponder our answer.

Looking at the map, it's obvious this is a trap. If we try to circle around the cliff, we'll end up without enough time to escape and reach the extraction point. We can't rush out or we'll get killed, and we also don't have any sniping rifles to deal with the units on the cliff. The best option is to leave an element behind while entrusting the intel to the rest, the others then go to the extraction point.

If the element doesn't make it back when the reinforcements arrive, we bail out. Those who escape will be the focus of the enemies on the cliffs, letting the element slowly approach our comrades after some moments even if they have to move further into the trees. Those who go to the extraction point can try to bait the enemy by drawing their attention on purpose too when the reinforcements arrive. It all depends on whether we can avoid the other hostiles in the area, but we don't really have a surefire way to protect those left behind from the snipers. Of course, we could just leave and prioritize the mission.

"Instructor, I have an answer." Chizuru raises her hand, Marimo-chan nods, and, after tapping her glasses, she stands up. "Our whole team could cooperate to rescue our comrades. While we cannot rush out of cover towards their location, we merely need to distract the enemies on the cliffs to allow our allies to move out towards us."

"I see." Marimo-chan crosses her arms but then her eyes squint a bit, making my stomach feel as if it was just hit by a DMP. "However, there are two units on the cliffs. One could easily snipe them as they move."

"They could take a longer trail, using the terrain as cover." She counters, again tapping her glasses.

"Then, how do you deal with the hostiles patrolling the area? What if they surround you all once you rendezvous with your comrades?"

"We can either retaliate or flee towards the escape point."

"The time frame is too tight. Your friendlies might not be able to cover you if you don't arrive in time to their vicinity. You're putting the whole mission at risk, Sakaki." She rises her chin and narrow her eyes, Chizuru seemed to compact her arms onto her sides as she returned the gaze.

"Instructor, leaving our comrades behind also presents a failure. We may lose valuable intel and, if they were captured and took in for questioning, the enemy would attain critical knowledge about our mission's goals. There is also no guarantee that we won't be sniped once we move out from our current location." Chizuru retaliates without backing down.

"Then, what do you do once your time is up, Cadet? The reinforcements won't be able to hold their ground indefinitely."

"In that case, once we confirm our comrades are out of the snipers' range we can also start moving towards the extraction point."

"So, not only you give the enemy time to surround you on your current location, you also guide them to the escape point. And the safety of your comrades is still not secured, and I'm being lenient on any of you not incurring injuries during this distraction. Anyone else got any other proposals?" Chizuru sat down, her brows fusing into one tense V.

"Yes, I do." I rose a hand, the Instructor nodded, and I stood up. I then explained my reasoning. "…And, worst case scenario, we can leave our comrades behind."

"So you're willing to abandon not two but four of your squadmates?"

"We would be buying them as much time as we possibly could. Circling through the cliff would be a waste of time for us and we cannot remain stationary or we risk being surrounded. That would also make it easier for the enemy, since they would already know of our location and they have the advantage of being familiarized with the terrain as well. While time will be against them and they will surely run into hostiles on their way, we cannot remain behind waiting."

I take a second of pause, Marimo-chan still doesn't seem convinced but doesn't ask anything. Again feeling my stomach tense up on its own, I continue.

"The biggest threat are the units on the cliffs, so if we draw their attention as we escape our comrades would have a bigger chance of making it out alive, while not compromising our arrival to the escape point. There's also the matter of the chasers, since we must have assaulted a facility many hostiles are sure to be coming for us. Also, we don't know whether reaching the extraction point will be enough. We don't know if the enemy has anti-air missiles or a way to give chase to our ride. Time is of essence, and escaping with as much time left is the priority. If the situation is too dire, or if we have too little ammo, then perhaps all of us should escape together without leaving anyone else behind. Delivering the intel we have on us is better than risking us and our reinforcements to die on the field. That is all." She holds my gaze, silently judging me.

I know this is a tricky question. There is no right answer, not with so little data. That's what this problem is trying to portray, that orders in the field are not absolute.

A single bullet hitting us from the cliffs would change the game plan completely, leaving us with no choice but to abandon those who were left behind. If those same comrades managed to avoid all pursuers or maybe ambush them, they would make it in time if we give them cover. There are many pitfalls here, and this is not really a problem that requires an answer. I remember Marimo-chan used this as a small debate in my past loops, not as a questioning. It was actually fun during my first time around, it was like a puzzle game. Only after getting commissioned the first time around I learned that 'game theory' was used in military simulations and exercises.

"May I ask why are you choosing to leave your comrades behind with such ease?" Marimo-chan asked, a hand on her chin and a brow curved slightly.

"I mean, the images on the book have barely no info on how the terrain is. That is realistic, I guess. But there is no 'right' answer, there isn't a 'correct' solution in my opinion. In which case, we gotta rush the win condition. You can't fight what you don't know, and there's a lot of unknown details in this mission while there's a heavy responsibility on our shoulders. I believe we should focus on what we can feasibly accomplish, Instructor."

And trying to save some might lead to many more dying. That's… something I know well. But, hey, maybe my logic isn't that good. Those two years back home and the guilt of what happened might have screwed up my compass.

"…That was a well formulated answer, Shirogane." She smirks for a moment. "However, your organization's standing could be put at risk if your comrades are captured. And the intel they have could be more important than the one you possess. So, any other answers?" I sat down and looked at the rest. They avoided my gaze, looking down. "I see. Well, let's debate on this matter for a moment. Turn the page, the enemy positions and possible outcomes are listed there."

The rest of the class went by as we discussed what could have happened on this mission. For some reason, Chizuru was being extra contrarian now. Eyes squinted, brows low and arched, the edge of her lips twisted and twirled when I tried to debate with her. Meiya was also rather cold, using short sentences and all.

"Well, that will be all for today. Do remember to read the following pages, we're tackling the next chapter starting tomorrow. Dismissed!"

"Salute!" We all stood up and saluted. Marimo-chan returned the gesture and left. "Sigh… These last few questions were too abstract." Tapping her glasses, she begins to put her books in her bag.

"I agree." Meiya sighed as she crossed her arms. "It is most frustrating to be left with so little data to formulate a plan. There was a very large room for error in that last question."

"I think that's the whole point." I grabbed my books and put them into my little bag. "It's supposed to show how volatile the battlefield can be."

"I think so too, Shirogane-san. Even so, you formulated a good answer very quickly." Tama smiled as usual as she put her own bag on her back.

"Yeah, 'good answer' Special-kun."

"Hey, what's with that leering?"

"Nothing." Kei turns around and walks to the door.

"Well, let us go leave our books in our quarters." In answer to Meiya's words we all left the classroom.

"But anyways, I still think this is going too fast."

"Yeah, that's right. We're already starting another chapter tomorrow." Tama sighed and scratched one of her ears softly.

"Well, you still got the best answer so you're doing good." Chizuru said as she walked in front of me, sour as lemons.

"There was no right answer. That was just what I thought was best."

"…I see."

Hey, what's wrong with them? I know they've been kinda overwhelmed since this new regime started, but I didn't do anything to upset them. I know they kinda got upset at Kasumi thanks to how cold she was when she came to pick me up, but I did apologize to them about it.

We arrived at the barracks and after leaving our stuff in our rooms, we went to the PX. Bustling with yells, chatter, and complains as always at this hour, we got in line, without saying anything. We got our food and went to our usual table. As we ate, we debated over the exercises and lectures but…

"I'm only saying it was the most effective way to deal with the mission, with what little data we had on hand."

"Huh, I see." Chizuru took a moment to drink some miso, then glanced at me with lowered eyelids. "Then, would your answer be the same if you were the one left behind?"

"Of course. If I'm a hazard to you, you should cut your losses and prioritize your own wellbeing."

I rather die myself than see any of you die or get injured because of my carelessness. It would be hard for me to leave one of you behind, sure. But if it's that or putting everyone at risk, I would… shoulder the decision myself. I already forced you all to sacrifice yourselves more than enough times. That's not happening here.

"Such a team player, asking us to leave the dead weight behind." Kei, who was sitting to my left, narrowed her eyes at me as her tone was a like branch hitting the window during a storm, catching me completely off guard in its aggressive vibe.

"Hey, I'm just giving you my opinion. And it's just a debate. No need to get upset."

"Whatever." She gulped down her miso and stood up, lifting her tray with a bit too much force. "Later." And she left the PX as quickly as if she were a blue hedgehog.

"Sheesh, what got into her?" I know Kei doesn't like abandoning people or retreating thanks to all that business with her dad, but still, I think this is too much.

"I wonder." Chizuru again averted her eyes, her brows were still tense in a V. She only looks like that when she's really upset, if my memory of our relationship isn't wrong. "Well, I'll be going too." She also stood up and left swiftly.

"Um… I want to review some stuff, so I'll be going too."

"Okay, later Tama." She did smile as she got up, and said her goodbyes to me and Meiya with a waving hand.

Sigh… I wonder why they're so upset. I know I've been doing better than them despite their best efforts, but I'm just trying to help you guys out. If only you listened to my advice instead of getting like this. You won't be able to save everyone… Sometimes shit just hits the fan, and there's nothing to be done about it. All you can do sometimes… is just take the fall in stride, and move on from then. I know it's kind of weird coming from me, the guy who keeps going back to the past, but life's a bitch sometimes and won't hesitate to sucker punch your kidney like a bastard when you least expect it. They should know that better than me, since they've lived their whole lives in this world.

"Shirogane, might I ask you something?" Meiya looked at me as she put down her chopsticks.

"Sure, what's up?"

"Would you truly forsake your comrades if you were placed in a similar situation to the mission that was described in our last question?"

"…Yes. Even if that meant that I could be the one left behind. Trying to save a few can end up causing the death of many more, but above all, you can't fight the unknown. It would be too risky to compromise the mission."

"…I see." She looked down, slowly picking some more food as her shoulders lowered a bit.

"Hey, I'm not saying we should abandon anyone without trying, it's just-"

"No, it is alright. That is your opinion and you already explained your reasoning."

"Okay… So, hey, sorry about Kasumi. I know I already said it, but she really can be too cold without meaning to sometimes."

"There is no problem. You have made yourself clear already."

It feels as if I had knocked a wall of glass. Hmm… Knowing how she is, she surely took offense with my comment about the mission.

"So, Meiya…"

"Yes?"

"I really am not saying we should abandon our squadmates without a second thought. But sometimes… things will get tough and you won't have a way to save everyone."

"…I know that well. You do not need to justify yourself to me. I can… see your point of view. There is no need to keep debating over this. Also, isn't that Yashiro?"

"Hm? Oh, you're right." I turned towards the entrance and saw Kasumi staring, moving her bunny ears really slow once we made eye contact. Sigh… Deadlines are a scary thing, indeed. "Well, I'll be going. Oh, and take a look at the graph on page 68 if you can."

"Why?" Meiya raises a brow.

"Well, I skimmed through the pages before leaving the classroom and it seemed to have a lot of useful stuff for next class. I would have liked to talk about it with the rest but, well…"

"Do not worry, we can manage on our own." She looks away, returning to her food. "You shouldn't keep Yashiro waiting, since you promised to spend time with her."

"Yeah, later." I pick up my tray and leave the table.

Why was she so upset? Sigh… I know I'm cruising through this while you all struggle, but that's no reason to give me the cold shoulder like that. Also, is it me or is Meiya cross towards Kasumi? I mean, the bunny has been real rude to her when she came to ask me for help these last few days. I know I have been ignoring Meiya and the rest for a short while thanks to the testing of the consoles and the XM3, but I've been trying to help during class. Eh, I'll just do my best to not be so obnoxious. Maybe I shouldn't be so insistent on my own answers? Yeah, I should let them form their own words instead of being so pushy.

Well, I'm sure this little thing will go away once they get some more good results in their belts. Also, Mikoto is sure to help them regain their cheer.

---

Same Day. A bit past 9 PM.

(Takeru's Room.)

---

"So, what do you think? Should we accept the deal?" Sensei asked me on the other side of the line.

"This just might be a stroke of good luck for us, Sensei. If you think it's safe, go for it. But make sure we can also record their data, I'm sure it'll be useful for the XM3."

"Alright, we'll discuss that later. That's all." And she hanged up.

So, in exchange for clearing my records and fixing my profiles, the Shogunate wants to have early access to the stealth tech and the other stuff Sensei made, as well as letting Tsukuyomi-san's squad be the testers.

This is truly convenient for us. I remember that despite all the fighting she and her squad did during the defense of our base, their Takemikazuchis were still in good condition after it. They lasted quite nicely during the Kashgar Raid, too. I don't know if that's because of the TSF itself, but their skill should be a great thing to analyze. If by looking at their control logs and combat data we can somehow figure out how they make their weapons and TSFs last so much, we would get a serious boost in our performance. The less our TSFs and swords wear out, the less supplies we need on the field. This came with such good timing, perhaps this is fate throwing me a present after all my efforts.

The consoles are more than ready, the XM3 is shaping up to be even better than last time. All the stuff I brought ended up being useful to Sensei. We're all green on that front.

On the other however…

During this week the training became even harder in all fronts. I can now call it training, but the girls are being driven to their limits. The lectures, the fighting exercises, the practice in the range field, the running, everything is overwhelming them. They're certainly getting better than how they were in my past loop, but Marimo-chan is not letting up.

Since I've been busy with the consoles and the XM3's testing I haven't had the time to help them train much, and somehow I feel like there's a wall between us now. I know they might be upset at me, going by our talks after today's lecture, but still…

When it was the other way around you guys didn't give up on me, despite your complains and teasing. So surely you won't hold it against me now, right? I won't give up on you, so you should rely on me a bit more you know. Well, tomorrow Mikoto comes back so she should help me lighten the mood between us.

"Sigh… I'll just do what I can. Let's keep practicing." I grab the Minaru Kamui and start swinging again.

I've been doing some practice with it at night when I have the time. I don't have much room to move here, but it's better than nothing and it's also a nice way to train for any time where I'm surrounded or stuck. I did promise Maya-san I'd keep improving myself, and since not even Meiya can give me a good challenge in her current form, having some mental battles with myself is the best method I have to at least not lose my edge.

Also, holding the sword with the ribbon has been a great help to keep my resolve these days, since honestly I feel like crying sometimes. I have been making a conscious effort to be nice and try to help the girls, but I'm getting shot down faster than aircraft on the range of a Laser class. I know I shouldn't expect them to be nice and intimate with me, but being treated so coldly despite my best attempts at not being a jerk hurts. A lot.

So having our sword with me helps me remember why I'm here. The oath I made, to protect them no matter the cost. So long as some of them survive this hell and can find peace and happiness, I can keep on fighting. Even if I'm apart of them forever. I rather end up alone by their choice than having to be alone because all of them are dead. I wouldn't be able to endure it, not again.

Once I was done training, I carefully stash the Minaru Kamui in the closet, wash my face on the sink, rinse my mouth, and then hit I the sack.

---

Some odd minutes before 6 AM.

---

"Ugh…" I stir under the bed, supporting me with one arm as I stood up. Rubbing my forehead, I blink as the grogginess leaves me.

I just had a dream about the time when I ran away to my world, dammit. Ugh, I thought I had these things under control… but they're getting more and more vivid.

It still hurts like hell to remember that. How Marimo-chan died, how Meiya forgot all about me in a few seconds, how Sumika forgot me and got crushed at the gym…

I breath in, clearing the mist in my eyes. I take my feet off the bed, resting my arms on my knees. I again inhale deeply with my nose, eyes closed.

…That is not gonna happen again. They're alive, t-they're still alive.

Sniff… I can prevent that. Yeah, I can do it. Wipe those tears, man. No one's dying like that.

Come on, breathe in. Exhale… Breathe in… Hic…

"C'mon, get your shit together. Hic… Stop crying, dammit."

I stand up and go to the sink, wiping my nose. A splash of cold water always helps. Hell straight, I'm wide awake now. I inhale sharply, returning my reflection's stare.

No one dies here this time. I can and will lead them to a better future, no matter what. Remember what you caused the last time you doubted, remember Sensei's words. Focus on attaining victory… and you'll attract a solution to your problems.

"…Let's get ready, last thing I want is to miss roll call."

Today, Marimo-chan told us we have lectures on how to assemble rifles. Again. Only this time it's also a competition, the two last ones have to run ten klicks. I wonder how good I am at zeroing a gun now, that is one thing I haven't practiced.

I took some minutes to get my shit together in my room before going to the PX, and when I got there the girls weren't at the table. I ate quickly and made my way to our classroom before I suffered the wrath of Marimo-chan. Luckily for me, I arrived at the door of the classroom and hear all the girls talking inside. So everyone is already here, first time I'm the last one to arrive. But I got here before the Instructor, so that's a win in my eyes.

"Yo, good morning!" I try to sound cheerful as I enter, to hide how shaken I still am from my nightmare today.

"Good morning, Shirogane-san." Tama is the only one who answers. She wasn't particularly happy as usual.

I take my seat, and not a single word was said. I can't help to feel something crawling up on my neck, licking my lips as I throw a glance at them. I bet they didn't want me hearing whatever they were talking about. Sigh… I need to find a way to get things back on track.

"Good morning, Squad." The Instructor enters while pushing the box with the rifles into the room.

"Salute!"

"Alright. You already know how this goes. I'll scatter the pieces of the rifle on your desk and put a blindfold on you, then you assemble the gun. We're doing this twice, one for a normal rifle and another for a sniping rifle. After all have finished, we'll go to the firing range. The ones that misses the most, or the ones who takes the less accurate shots, have to run ten klicks. Understood?"

"Yes, Instructor!"

The pieces get scattered, and all of us are blindfolded. After Marimo-chan's shout we all started to assemble our rifles.

Let's see… this goes here… And this is… no, this is for after I… And this thing here is the bolt… Now, I put you there. And now this goes… You get in place, and I just gotta…

"Instructor, I'm done." I say without removing the blindfold.

"What? But… Let me see… Hmm, yes… Nice work, Shirogane. I'll bring the next one."

I lift the cloth a bit, the girls weren't even close to finishing theirs. Oh well, can't start to pull my punches now. The sniping rifle is scattered this time, blindfold back on place. Let's do this.

This one is the… Then this goes… The handle goes with this… and here's the scope… Put this here, some pressure over here and…

"I'm done." This is child's play to me by now.

"Already? Let me check… Another fine job. Now, wait until everybody else finishes." I take off the blindfold and hand it to Marimo-chan.

The girls had just started with the sniping rifle. Meiya just finished the first one, she looked at me as I was staring at her and immediately avoided my gaze, looking bothered. What did I even do? Is she that envious of me?

We made our way to the firing range after everybody finished, without sharing a single word yet again. We get three shots with each rifle, with the first one towards the 300M target, and towards the 1100M with the sniper one.

Aight, let's see if I got any better at this. We all go into position, locking on our targets.

"Fire!"

First rounds blow off. Let's see… Second inner circle after the bullseye. Not bad.

Next shot, some centimeters off the center of the inner circle around the bullseye, third shot… near the bullseye, but still not dead center. Still can't do it, crazy how I have things to improve after all this time.

"Change rifles!" We get the sniping rifle, now let's see how I hold up. "Fire!"

First shot… On target, on the middle circle. Second shot… just on the line between the first circle around the bullseye and the next one. Now, last one… No dice, still not on the inner circle. Dammit, I got better no doubt but I'm still nowhere near Tama's level. Eh, I think this is fine, to finally show a not so awesome side of myself.

"Ayamine, Sakaki! Ten klicks on the track field!"

And off they go. Didn't expect Chizuru to have to run. So Meiya surpassed her? Way to go, girl.

"…Shirogane-san." Tama called out to me. She wasn't smiling and her brows were lowered, this is so not like her.

"What's up, Tama?"

"Why did you hold back?"

"Huh?" Tama being angry during training. This is a new one.

"Y-You heard me. Why did you hold back today? You could have scored a shot to the bullseye if you were trying seriously." Where the hell did this come from? She was the one who WASN'T mad at me yesterday.

"I wasn't holding back. I'm not so good at zeroing a gun. I can assemble them easily, but adjusting them manually is not something I'm good at."

"Not good at?" One of Meiya's brow rose as her lips plucked. "You almost managed to land a certain hit to the bullseye in both ranges, you're not fooling anyone Shirogane." Her every word hitting like one of her slashes, I can't do more than scratch my head. Last time they weren't so envious of my skill, even if I did hold back.

"Hey, I wasn't holding back, and I told you I don't like to brag. Look at Tama, she got two hits to the bullseye of the second target."

"Shirogane-san, if you were serious I'm sure you could have done that too." Her gaze falls down like my history grades, again looking dejected for real.

No Tama, I can't be as good as you. I've been trying for… I feel like Lonk on the Magorea's Mask game now, always going back in time to save the town.

"What do you think I am, a super elite soldier? I have flaws too, just that I trained a lot to polish them."

I probably trained for more than a lifetime in total. It's scary when I think about it, I'm like one of those prepromoted units of CryRing Saga since my 'growth' is capped. Wait… Does that mean they're gonna bench me in the late game? …I mean, I did end up sitting in the XG firing missiles last time.

"Making excuses? Do you not feel motivated to do your best against us, perhaps?" Seriously Meiya, why are you so angry at me?

"Why don't you believe me? Just because I'm good with many things doesn't mean I'm good at everything."

"However, your performance has been excellent since you arrived. You were always several steps ahead of us in all you did. Why would your performance on the morning practice suddenly drop yesterday and today?" Because I'm tired and having horrible nightmares? Because your attitude is making me really sad? Not like I can be honest with you.

"…You know I have that little project with Kasumi, and I also get tired. I'm a human too. I have peaks and valleys."

"But you have showed us your aim is much better than that. And you don't look sleep deprived, your movements do not denote exhaustion."

"Mitsurugi-san is right, you can always hit the 1500M target's inner circle even if it's on the outer rim during practice."

"Yes, but that's thanks to all the practice I got in my old squad. I was really pushed to my limits, that's why I'm so good now." I mean, I really put some effort in improving myself before coming back here. All the lessons with Tama also helped me out much to even be remotely decent at it, to begin with. I'd be nothing without her training from my first loops.

"Really? And why would you have received such harsh training regarding your gun skills, I wonder?" Meiya, stop with that glare. I guess I could be somewhat serious with them if it makes them drop the cold act.

"It's not that the squad got that training, I wanted to take a harsher course. I just… wanted to be better."

"Eh? Shirogane-san, you chose to take a harder training?" She stared at me curiously as if I were some weird animal.

"Don't you guys want to get as good as you can?" They share a look, looking down.

"Well, of course we do." She folds her arms and groans a bit. "But you're on Tamase's level, and she is a great sniper. You also possess very good skills in CQC and you never fail a question in the lectures. You're telling me you attained your current skill through independent training alone?" She again narrows her eyes at me, sending purple flares through her gaze.

I dunno why they're so mad at me, so… let's be honest with them.

"What would you have done if you lost someone important to you?"

"Huh?"

"I told you guys before. I… got someone killed. I do not want that to happen again, ever. That's why I pretty much spent the last months before coming here training myself, from dawn to the evening. That's why I'm so good." Meiya's eyes relax a bit as she caresses the top of her head, Tama looks down as her eyes almost close while holding one of her elbows real tight.

"…I see. However, why have you been holding back?" Meiya asks, eyes still not entirely losing their edge. Sigh… So there lies the root of the suspicions.

"Are you sure you want me to be serious against you?"

"Of course I do! Why would I not want for you to- Ah!" I stepped towards her in a flash, aiming one finger towards the base of her neck. I poked her, making her squeal and fall back.

"If you can't dodge that, you won't be able to keep up. And anyways, I wasn't holding back today. This is the best result I've ever gotten zeroing a gun myself." I push my chest out, since that is no lie.

"Why did you touch my neck?!" Aww, you look so cute when you're embarrassed.

"You wanted me to be serious against you, I showed you my speed. So, look, I know you're all taking this very seriously and that it's important to you all. So, from now on, I'll be serious against you, using all I've learned so far. So can you stop being so cold with me, Meiya?" I smile at her, but…

"Mitsurugi." A harsh tone together with an aggressive stare.

"What?"

"Stop calling me by my name. Call me Mitsurugi from now on, Shirogane. I will take you on and defeat you, don't think I'll let you ridicule me further." And she leaves for the classroom. Shit, she took it the wrong way.

"Hey, wait a sec! I wasn't making fun of you. I'm sorry, can we-"

BAM!

Ugh, that hurt! Why did she punch me?!

"Who do you think you are, grabbing my shoulder like that?!"

"Hey, what's going- Shirogane! Your nose is bleeding!" Marimo-chan sounded furious. Great, just what I needed. "Mitsurugi, you better have a good reason to explain whatever happened."

"Cadet Shirogane tried to grab my shoulder quite forcefully, so I defended myself."

"I was just trying to apologize! Seriously, what the hell is wrong with all of you today?!"

"That's enough. Mitsurugi, two laps on the track field. Shirogane, go to the infirmary and get something to stop the bleeding. We're continuing the lesson in a short while. I expect you two to be on your best behavior for the rest of the day."

Deluxe, this is the best thing ever. Is she really so pissed off at me being better than her? I just offered to be serious too, I don't know why she's so mad. Standing up again while the Instructor goes alongside Meiya to the track field, I rub my nose a bit.

"Hey Tama, do you know why Meiya was so mad?"

"Um… You should stop calling her in that way. But, um, is this really your best result so far?" She eyed me sideways, with small shadows creeping within her gaze.

"Yeah. I practiced a lot to get this good with a gun. Don't be so cold with me please. I just didn't want to overwhelm you guys, I'm not ridiculing you or anything." I bow to her, hopefully she'll see that I'm being serious.

"Oh, sorry. I wasn't trying to… Well, I know they are very prideful, so please be more tactful from now on. I'll try to talk with them, I don't like this at all." She holds her hands close to he chest, looking down.

"Thanks, Tama. Really."

The rest of the class went by normally, except for the cotton on my nose being bothersome. Chizuru and Kei didn't even ask me what happened. Meiya did not apologize, didn't even look at me. I guess this is on me for being an idiot and poking her.

Class ends and the three storm out of the classroom again, like they have been doing for awhile. Marimo-chan looks at them, but chooses to say nothing and leaves too. Tama looked at me clearly at a loss, I wave at her and she leaves after giving me a bow. You're too sweet Tama, I can't get you in trouble because of my stupidity.

I'm not as dense as I used to be, so I know that going to the PX with them right now is not a good idea. Pushing them for answers won't give me anything good in return. Let's give them some space, I'm sure Tama will tell them that I didn't mean anything bad.

"Sigh… I guess I'll take my lunch and go eat somewhere else."

As I made my way to the PX after waiting a while I saw Mikoto going towards the barracks. Right, she's going to see Marimo-chan. Maybe she can help me get out of whatever the hell is happening here.

I grab a tray and ask for yakisoba and some bread. I ask them to make a sandwich, leaving the tray I go to the track field while eating the thing.

I think I screwed up, I alienated them. Whatever, so long as we pass the CCSE and they get better than before I'm happy. Yeah, that's my goal. So long as they get to live a better life here that's enough for me. I shouldn't get so down, dammit.

…It's not like I'm all alone, anyways. I'm sure they'll chill in a few days. It's just a matter of time, and of me being tactful.

What did we have this afternoon? First Aid? Didn't I bring a book about that? If I try to change my attitude they'll get offended like this morning when I showed them that I honestly am not perfect, so let's do all I can.

I go back to my room and after a little searching I found the book in question. Taking a short shower, then putting some cream on my nose afterwards, I go to class. As I approach the classroom, a conversation reaches my ears.

"…He's truly amazing, I tell you. And never brags or anything." Tama was describing someone. Probably me.

"He randomly uses our names to address us. He knows much about tactics, he's good- no, great in every type of combat." Chizuru sounds somewhat displeased, like when she complained about my eating habits back in my world when we got together. Only with more fire in her words.

"And he's basically the perfect soldier. I do not know why he is even here." Meiya… Why do you… sound so angry?

"Special-kun is too good to be here."

"Oh, so that's how the new guy is?" Mikoto was there.

"Yes, he is excellent in every aspect as a soldier. But I honestly can't bring myself to trust him." W-What? Why did Chizuru say that?

"It's rare enough that he was scouted despite being so adept, it is even more odd considering he was in another country. And to make matters worse, he's playing around with us. He doesn't even take us seriously." Meiya's tone gave out a vibe of aggressiveness I've very rarely felt from her.

"So he's like a super soldier?" Mikoto, are you like them too?

"Shirogane-san is amazing no matter how you look at him, and he did say he wasn't looking down on us. But it makes you wonder, why was he scouted?" Tama was the only one that still tried to sound calm and friendly.

"Special-kun is toying with us. He should get bent."

"Ayamine-san, don't say that! He's one of us!" Tama tried to defend me, but…

"Tamase, we both know where he comes from. Only an American can be so adept with a gun, only one of them would propose such a solution to yesterday's debate. You're telling me to trust an American?" Chizuru's venom was crystal clear.

Tama tried to argue, but Chizuru remarked that Americans are not to be trusted. Meiya agreed, and they told Mikoto to be wary of me. I clenched my fists so hard it started to hurt, it felt as if I had butterflies in my stomach. Alongside a bonfire, that is.

Why did things turn out like this? What did I even do to you? I was just training alongside you, doing my best, giving you advice, preparing the consoles so that you got even better than before. I came here to save you.

…

…To save them? Or to save the memory of the other world's versions of them?

That's right, they're not the same people I remember. This is a different world after all, it wouldn't be rare for them to be completely different people here.

But even so… I gotta do something. I can't let our relationship take a nosedive here. Even if they're different, even if they're suspicious of me, it's up to me to clear the air. I did this to myself, I gotta fix this shit! Different or not I need them to win this war, and I want them to live.

"Cadet Shirogane, what are you doing there?" The Instructor addressed me as she got close. Right, this isn't Marimo-chan. This angry woman is different. I wonder why she turned out like this?

"Just taking some air, giving the girls space to catch up on stuff with Yoroi."

"That's really tactful of you. Now, go inside that the class will start."

Stepping into the classroom, they looked both startled and angered. They probably hadn't noticed I was listening on them, and only realized when Mari- …when the Instructor called out to me.

"Hey guys." I wave at them as I sit. They avoid my gaze, clearly uncomfortable as oil mixed with water.

"Are you all here? Yes, you are." The Instructor goes to her desk, clearing her throat before continuing. "As you know, today and tomorrow you have First Aid practice during the afternoon. I'm sure I don't have to tell you, but if anyone punches someone without a very good reason they're going to get a reaaally nice punishment. Now, I'll trust in you today and leave you on your own. Do not make me regret this decision."

We all salute and she leaves. She obviously was warning Meiya to not do something stupid again. Knowing her that's not going to stop her if she wants to punch me again. She is really stubborn.

"Hey, you're the new guy? Takeru Shirogane, was it?"

"Huh? Oh, yes. I'm the new guy." Mikoto stares at me from top to bottom, a finger on her lips. Is she… also like the rest?

"Hello! I'm Mikoto Yoroi, nice to meet you."

"Likewise." She smiles like she always does. So… Which is it?

"So, hey, I'm just gonna throw this out there, but are you as much of a jerk as they say you are?"

"Excuse me?"

"Yeah you see, everybody was like super mad about you! He's so perfect, he's been conscripted, he's an alien!"

"Wait, what did they-" Mikoto keeps talking on her own. As usual.

"But you don't look so bad! You even kinda look a bit goofy."

"Goofy? What do you-" I'll never be able to reach her when she gets like this, am I?

"Anyways, I was in the medical bay for awhile, so I need to catch up super fast guys!" Mikoto now addresses the girls, who look even more lost than me.

"Yoroi, you… You shouldn't speak of matters we discuss in pri-" Meiya also didn't get to finish.

"Oh, I remembered! I met a really nice soldier when I was in the bay, he gave me all kinds of advice for the CCSE and for when we get to ride TSFs!"

"Yoroi-san, please hear us out. Everybody is really tense now, so ple-" Much less Tama.

"I also read a lot of books! There's this novel I just know you're gonna love, Chizuru-san."

"Yoroi, we're trying to-" Not even Chizuru can stand up to Mikoto, it seems.

"I know we're going to get along Takeru, it's good to have you on the team."

"Sure thing." I have to hold a chuckle, seeing her doing her usual bullshit. Mikoto is still Mikoto. "Uh… How should I call you?"

"Mikoto's fine. Can I call you Takeru?"

"Sure." The girls wince upon hearing our exchange. They really do hate me in this world, huh?

"Deal then!" She doesn't seem to care, though. "You see Takeru, I'm really good at medical stuff."

"So I've been told."

"All right, how about I do a simple summary as a refresher for all of us?" She offers while going to the blackboard. "Hey Takeru, what's that book you're holding?"

"Oh, just a book on First Aid. Thought I'll bring it to not get anything mixed up."

"Hmm, haven't seen this one. Gaman Editorial? Don't know about this one. This book look really nice, though. The cover, the pages, it's almost new, isn't it?"

"Yes, Professor Kouzuki gave me some books to cover the knowledge I was lacking when I came here." I made up that excuse some minutes ago, I think it's not half bad.

"The Professor? Wow, so this must be… Hmm, what is… Hmm… " Eyes glued to the pages, she gets engrossed in the book.

"Yoroi, is it really so interesting?" Chizuru leans over Mikoto's shoulder to peek at the book.

"So it's not so important to use it, since the risk of death from bleeding out is too big… Yes, that's it. I knew I wasn't wrong about that."

"Yoroi? Hey, Yoroi!" Chizuru is literally yelling in her ear right now.

"Say Takeru, could you lend me this book? You finished reading it yet?"

"Yeah, you can take it. I already read through it." Back in my world when I had the time.

"Yay! Thank you!" She jumps at me and hugs me. Typical Mikoto. The rest look really uncomfortable right now.

"Uhh… Mikoto? You don't have to be so happy about it, it's just a book." Also please let me go, I can't take you being so sweet now of all times.

"No, this one has a lot of interesting things going by the summary. Really, thanks a lot!" At least someone is still the same here.

Unlike the others who are staring with a mix of surprise, towards Mikoto, and annoyance towards me.

"So you even know about medicine? Is there something you don't know, Shirogane?" Meiya asks in a mocking tone, brows surrounded by wrinkles.

"Of course. I'm not a surface pilot yet, so there's lot of stuff I don't know."

"Really now? And what kind of subjects are you not proficient in, if I may ask?"

"Repairs, for example."

Mostly thanks to how much I trashed my TSFs I rarely got to work on them, since they were so bent out of shape the mechanics had to personally deal with them last loop. And I also didn't get much beyond the basics then, with you… with them throwing wrenches at me as if they were freaking tomahawks. During my first loops I was never deployed until Iceberg, so I haven't had to handle a damaged TSF on my own so far.

"Special-kun, you can't do repairs?"

"I didn't have much practice with that, I focused more on combat. I'd like to believe I'm not bad, but I'm not awesome or anything." Kei stared at me for awhile, then looked away. Her eyes told me she believed me, since she did relax them a tiny bit.

"So let's start the class! Miki-san, what is the first thing you have to do when you encounter someone collapsed?"

"Huh?! I… Erm, you gotta…" Startled by the sudden question, she struggled to find an answer.

This went just as I remembered, with Mikoto shooting random questions towards us. Only this time I got all the answers right.

"…So, when you use a tourniquet, after which time is it safe to remove it?"

"You don't have to. It would be the same as if you hadn't even used it, so you gotta take the patient to a medic as soon as possible, before the necrosis starts."

"Right again! You're so smart, Takeru. Alright, now let's see… why don't we practice some CPR? Takeru, would you mind to lay down?" Sigh. I won't be able to avoid this, will I?

"Ok, laying down."

"Now, stay still. Here we…"

And this happened again. She's pinching my nose again, how long does she plan to do this? Well, at least the class is going on without incident.

"…And that's more or less how you do it." She says as she releases my nose, standing up. "Now, let's move on to how to stop bleeding injuries. Takeru, raise your arm."

"Like this?"

"Yes, so we already reviewed the others in the questions, but just in case you have to use a tourniquet here's what you need to do. You need to get a cord or something around the limb, and then tie it really tight. Then you put a stick right here if it's still rather loose… And if it's one of the hands you gotta raise it above the heart, like this."

I can hear my bones creaking a bit. This still hurts dammit! Why do I always have to be the dummy?! Mikoto, please stop! My arm doesn't bend that way!

"Okay, t-that's enough of it, right?" She arches a brow, but then lets go of my arm. Sigh… It's always the same with you, haha.

"So even Shirogane-san can't deal with this kind of stuff?" Tama don't tease me! At least the others seem to have loosened up a bit after seeing these simple practices.

"Yeah, that's pretty much all about it."

Mikoto put both hands behind her back, her right brow lower than her left one. So she got pissed I didn't let her finish the explanation? Haha, she really doesn't like it when she gets interrupted.

"Now, there's one last thing you have to take care of." She aimed a finger around, then finishing by pointing it at me, probably because she's a bit mad. "That's the patients mental state, since they can go into shock. You need to reassure them, lay them down gently if their head isn't injured and slowly loosen their clothes off, also don't forget to keep them warm. Remember to cheer them up, since they will surely get anxious. Now, Takeru could you lay down again?"

Last time she laid down, so if I can avoid that embarrassment again I'll do it. Let's just get this day over with. I sit down on the floor, then slowly lay on my back.

"Is this fine?"

"Hmm… Could you take off your jacket first?"

"Huh? Well, fine." Why would she want me to do that, though? "Anything else?"

"No, that's all. Now, if you'll excuse me." She knelt by my side and pulled up my shirt. But she got it stuck on my head, and now I can't see shit.

"Mikoto, I can't see anything."

"That's part of the plan! You need to feel anxious after all."

"Why?"

"Otherwise it's not much of a training. By the way, do you exercise much? Because we could grind meat on your chest." Great, now I'm getting embarrassed. Nothing ever goes my way when it comes to you, you always march at your own tempo.

"Can we continue with the practice?"

"Sure, sure! Now, don't you worry." She started speaking in a small, sweet voice as if she were reading a book to a child before bed. "Everything's gonna be fine. You just need some bandages and that's that. You just lay down and let me take care of you."

…This is not helping. Brain, quiet. No flashbacks of that right now. Go away, first CCSE! Damn snake… I'm boiling it this time around. Mikoto, hurry up already!

"Say Takeru, what are these scars from?" She suddenly asked in her normal tone, a hand of hers tracing one of my sides. It kinda tickles.

"Scars?"

"Awawa, Shirogane-san! Where did you get hurt like that?!" Why is Tama making such a fuss? What are they talking abou…

Oh right, the scars from the terrorist attack. I forgot about them.

"You have this reeeaaaallyyy big scar on the left side of your chest." She says as her fingers trace it slowly. "Did you get hurt when fighting with Kei-san, perhaps?"

The left? Oh, that's the scar of when I took a metal bat trying to shield one of the professors, I think my back is also full of those small marks too.

Wait a second… How do I even justify this? They were getting super paranoid about me being an American, about me being conscripted… Seeing the scars… is only gonna make this worse. Dammit… Life, when I called you a bitch that sucker punches people, I didn't actually mean it, you know. There was no need to lay it down on me like this. Sigh… Goddammit.

"Let me see, move a bit to the…" As I was lost in thought, Mikoto moved me to a side. I could only shut my throat up as she gasped when seeing my back, probably. "Uwah, even your back is full of these! Did Meiya-san beat you up during sword practice? All that talk about you being super strong was just a joke, right?"

"Uuh… Not exactly." Shit… I screwed it all up, didn't I?

She returns me to my position, and after putting some paper over my scar and continuing to reassure me for awhile, she declared the exercise finished and I can finally pull my shirt back where it should be. I remain sitting on the ground, unable to lift my face, while I put my jacket back on.

"But really, you all had me with the talk of him being special. Just look how much you beat him up, you shouldn't be so mean to the newbie!" She threw an accusing finger towards the girls, who were clearly lacking words after seeing my scars.

"Yoroi, that's not what happened. He truly-" Meiya again got interrupted.

"Man, don't I wanna hit the PX right now! Wanna go grab some grub, Takeru?"

"…Sure, that's a wrap for today." I take my chance to end this day, the sooner I get to bed the better. I need some time to think how to approach them from now on. I can't strain our relationships any more.

Me and Mikoto made our way to the PX, and shortly after the rest arrived. Nothing much was said on the line, they were again ignoring me as Mikoto kept rambling on and on. We went to the usual table, me trying to not make eye contact with any of 'em.

"Hey everyone, lemme tell you about that thing I saw on TV the other day!" Mikoto started telling them of the news of the dog that got lost and made his way back to it's owner,.

Everybody reacted like last time, then she started to tell them about how Chop-kun's show was still being aired. However, Meiya and Chizuru were staring at me. Their expressions are a mystery to me, as if they were juggling conflicting emotions behind those cold eyes. Meanwhile, I finished my food quickly. There's nothing for me to say now, since they might take it the wrong way. They might not even want to train using the consoles going by their attitude, and even less now that they might suspect me even more thanks to the scars. All that work for nothing.

Wait one second…

"Say guys, can I ask you something?" They all look at me. Life's a gamble, so let's roll that dice. Let's just hope she's not pissed anymore and sends me three ones in a row.

"What is it, Shirogane?" Chizuru placed her chopsticks on the table and looked straight at me. The rest also stared intently.

"Can any of you lend me hand? I've been asked something for my special mission, but I can't do it alone." Let's make it sound as if I was the one asking for help, maybe that will make them more willing to listen. If they're curious… let's use that to my advantage, even if only to make you all be better.

"Shirogane, you said to me once you always performed your missions alone." Meiya gave me a side glance as she kept eating. "What could have compelled such a change, now of all times?" Can't say I didn't expect her to give me the cold shoulder now.

…It still hurts, though.

"Whenever I needed help Kasumi would come to give me a hand, but she's busy for the time being and I can't do this alone. I need someone else to spar against." Brain, thanks for that wording. Their eyes sparked up as the word 'spar' left my lips. I just know this is the best bait I can use right now. Or so I think.

"Takeru, what are you doing? What's this about a mission?" Mikoto stared at me, lost as a penguin in a desert.

"Oh right, Yoroi doesn't know." Meiya folds her arms and coughs before speaking up again. "Shirogane is usually tasked to perform certain special missions for the Professor. He calls her Sensei for this reason, since he learns many a great deal of valuable lessons from them."

"Mitsurugi, you knew of that?!" Chizuru looks at both of us quite surprised. Right, I only ever told Meiya that I call Sensei that way.

"Yes, he mentioned it to me once. Anyways, that's the gist of it." Mikoto nods at her words.

"Huh. So Takeru, are you doing some fighting training?"

"Something like that. I can't tell you the details, but tomorrow I won't be there for the First Aid class. So, can any of you lend me a hand?" I give them a small bow while scratching the back of my head.

Meiya and Chizuru exchange a glance. I see their lips tense up, they must want to say yes but since they think I'm an 'American' for some reason they-

"I'm in! I'm really curious to see whether you're as good as they said you are."

"I owe you one, Mikoto. Thanks a bunch."

"U-Um… Shirogane-san? Could I maybe tag along as well?"

"Sure, the more the better. If you want to come too, just tell me. I'll tell Sensei when I go report today, and she'll tell the Instructor."

"Then, would it be okay for me to help out too?" Don't ask me so timidly, Tama. I don't bite.

"Of course! It'll be a great help." I beam at her and she smiles shyly.

"Ahem… Shirogane, what do you say if the whole squad helps you with this mission of yours?" Chizuru, you just fell into my trap. Thanks.

"I mean, I won't say no, but do you two agree?" I look at Meiya and Kei. Kei returned a blank stare as she devoured her third yakisoba sandwich, while Meiya kept moving her lips as she had her arms folded.

"I'm in. Wanna see you get serious." Kei sends a thumbs up my way as she grabbed yet another sandwich, but her eyes were just a tiny bit narrowed. Anyways, it works for me.

"Thanks Ayamine. What about you, Meiya?" Her brows twitched, more purple fire came out pouring. Oh right, she didn't want me to call her that. Uuh… That's gonna be hard.

"I suppose I should. It would be pointless to be the only one left out. Surely you won't hold back?"

"Hey, no need to be so cold. I'll face you in what I do best, so you better get ready." Their eyes spark up again.

"What you do best? So is it some sort of sword practice?" She leaned forward, the fire intensifying.

"No, it's something I do better than handling a sword." Because Gamer is my middle name, baby.

"B-Better than…"

…Maybe I shouldn't have said that. Now her eyes were wide, shining like a thunderstorm, but with the surprise of a cat after you find it doing trouble in the kitchen.

"Better than your swordsmanship?!" She rose from her seat like an eruption, smacking both hands onto the table.

Some people stopped talking and looked at us, before remembering that they had to mind their own business as they saw who was the one who rose her voice. Still, the silence was apparent as the not so subtle gazes they were giving us.

"Mitsurugi, don't raise your voice!" Chizuru had to grab her tray, because it almost fell as Meiya hit the table.

She looked around while tapping her glasses, her brows tensing into a V again at the sudden silence around our table. Tama lost her gaze into her soup, Mikoto and Kei didn't seem to mind, though they were also looking down.

"Meiya-san, is he really that good?" Mikoto's question only invigorated Meiya's purple flares, sitting down she folded her arms again and shot a glare at me with the intensity of a Heavy's beam.

"Good? No, he's great. Excellent, I dare say. And you're better at whatever this is? I expect you to be telling the truth. Shirogane, this better not be a lie." Sigh… I'm doing my best to fix this bridge, can you stop with the furrowed brow?

"Of course. Well, I gotta go. I'll go get you guys at the classroom in the afternoon after checking everything, see you tomorrow."

"Later, Takeru!" Mikoto and Tama waved at me, Kei kept eating the… How many sandwiches does she have there anyways? Meiya and Chizuru were whispering something, leaning closer to each other.

Well, I can only hope that being serious with them will be enough to mend our relationship. Whatever, I gotta go warn Sensei about the attack on Niigata and to ask her permission for this training.

…I wonder how they'll be from now on. Having seen my scars after voicing their distrust so openly to Mikoto… Just what the hell is wrong with this world?

…It's not too late, right? I can still mend this bridge… right?

Sigh…

As I got out of the PX and made my way towards the stairs in the empty hallway, scratching my head as I felt my stomach empty despite having just eaten, someone called out to me.

"Wait, Shirogane."

"Hm? What's up, Meiya?" Ah…

"Shirogane, I told you to call me-"

"Sorry! I just… Bad habit, not doing it on purpose. So, what can I do for you?"

"I have some questions for you." Please drop that scowl. It's really painful to see her like this, even if she isn't my Meiya.

"Alright. Fire 'em."

"Could you explain me how were you inflicted those scars?" Shit, I don't have an explanation prepared yet. Alright, bullshitting my way outta this one.

"That's classified. I can't talk about my time before coming to this base in detail."

"Whatever is that supposed to mean?"

"That the Professor forbid me from speaking about it."

Her face reminds me of that time me and Tsukuyomi-san argued about the way the Empire did things during the coup and she called me an American sympathizer. Those hateful, predator-like eyes were now in Meiya's face.

"Shirogane, where and how were you inflicted those scars?"

"What about the non-interference policy?"

"…So you refuse to speak of it?"

Sigh… I won't get her to stop asking this, I know how stubborn she is. Once she sets her mind on something, there's no stopping her. And refusing… might actually finish burning the bridge. Let's use her insistence to my advantage.

"…If you tell me what the hell was going on today with you, I might consider answering." She sharpens her eyes once more as she folds her arms.

"Surely you already know. We do not like to be treated so lightly, even if we know you're better than us."

"Again with that? I told you that I wasn't holding back."

"Not just today. When you first came here, you were holding back. And all of these days under the new regime, you constantly showed more and more how good you truly are. Can you blame us for becoming upset? You acted so friendly but you were just mocking us, not even taking us seriously during our training."

"I wasn't mocking you. I was just minding my speed, didn't want to alienate you all."

"Please, do you think me so gullible?"

"Sorry if I offended you, but I had no intention of doing so. I'm being serious, I was just minding my own strength. And honestly, it hurts to be treated so badly despite me trying my best to fit in. I don't want to end up excluded so, can you stop being so cold?" She flinches back, trying to find her words.

I can tell she's somewhat conflicted, but I've never seen Meiya like this, I've no idea what to say to her right now. Not even when we had fights as a couple she looked so clearly angered.

No, wait… I do recall those eyes… For the briefest moment, when she came to talk to me after Marimo-chan died and I screamed at her, right before I tried to rape her. She was making a similar expression to the one she has right now. Which means she's… truly upset, from the bottom of her heart? But I didn't… do anything…

"Say… Why are you this mad? I… didn't do anything to you guys, as far as I'm aware." She sighs and looks to the wall.

"…Look, we all are here for a reason and we cannot fail this coming CCSE, no matter what. If you do not take us seriously, can we truly call you our partner? How can we develop trust between us if you keep fooling around?"

"So, what? Instead of asking me to be serious for once, you all clam up and treat me like an outsider? Why didn't you just ask me to be serious?"

"Because you're not taking us seriously on your own, you seem to be making fun of us."

"I tried answering seriously during yesterday's lecture and you all got really upset. And I told you, I don't like to brag. I'm not that good, really."

"Huh… Then, allow me to ask you. If you are 'not so good' then, what are we in your eyes? What are you trying to say? It's as if you were looking down on us for some reason…" She takes a step towards me, locking her flare-filled eyes with mine.

"Hey, calm down! I'm not picking a fight with you."

"Really now?"

"Mitsurugi, you're my squadmate." I slow down my tone, gulping and meeting her gaze head on, so that she can see I'm not lying. "I believe we formed some trust between us in the brief time we have spent training together. Can you tell me why are you so upset with me? Is it all about me not being serious with you?" She closes her eyes and takes a breath.

"When we asked you to not hold back, you kept fooling around." Folding her arms real tight, a small frown sprouts on. "We asked for your help earnestly and you just toyed with us. And even during the lectures, you answer as if everything was trivial to you, dismissing our efforts and struggles. You have not been as tactful as one would hope. How can we see you as our partner when you treat us so lightly?"

"…I see. I don't know why you chose to not talk it out before, but you must have your reasons. If you want me to be serious from now on, I'll do it. Just… Forgive me if I harm you, when I focus on a fight I tend to strike with all my strength." That wasn't a problem with Maya-sensei since she could dodge and strike back, but I really don't want to harm any of you, since you're still not at your best level.

"You shouldn't concern yourself with that. Pound me to the ground if you must, but stop holding back. I want to know where I stand, I need to get stronger." Locking eyes with her, I give a nod.

"Fine. No more holding back from now on. And I'll also try to not be so… rude when giving you all advice. I wasn't and am not looking down on you guys, for real." She stares for a second before giving me a nod. "Well, I'll be going now. Gotta give my report." I turn around but feel a hand on my shoulder.

"Shirogane, you haven't answered my question yet. How were you inflicted those scars?" I thought I had made her forget about it. Damn it.

"Why do you want to know that so badly?"

"I… I can't see how you could have sustained such injuries." She lets go of my shoulder and looks away, as if she suddenly got embarrassed. This isn't like her, she's usually so straightforward with everything.

"Why?"

"Why? Because you're basically perfect! I can't even fathom how you, who surpasses all the challenges the Instructor throws your way, could be hurt to the extent of leaving such scars! It wasn't just one, your back was littered with them. I saw them clearly when Yoroi moved you around."

"I told you, I'm not perfect. Nobody is."

"Answer me! How… How could you, someone so skilled and strong, be hurt so? If you truly weren't conscripted before, then… How?" Her lips tightening into a small circle, she holds my gaze in place with hers as if she were an angry crab.

On one hand, I don't want to have them assume I'm conscripted already. On the other, why does she idolize me so much? I had thought she was upset at me for being 'an American' but…

Wait, she kind of did the same last time. Yeah, she said I was the squad's pillar of strength and was willing to let me have my way with her to make me get my shit together again. I suppose she must admire my swordsmanship now, she must have noticed the similarities my style has to the Mugen Kidou she uses. And now she saw the scars, right after all of them assuming I'm from America, for some reason. Sigh… What a mess.

"…If I tell you, do you promise to keep it a secret?" Can't exactly let the squad know about this, since it's technically a military secret. But refusing to tell her will only damage our relationship.

"Of course. You have my word." Earnest and sincere as usual. I know she wouldn't taint her honor by lying, so let's trust her.

"I got attacked by terrorists and got hit by a metal bat and several other things."

"…Huh?" Her face slowly contorts in fear as the meaning got to her.

"The place I was in before coming here got attacked by a bunch of terrorists. I helped the officers that were there deal with them, but I couldn't do much." Not a lie, this did happen. But I probably can't lie without her noticing, and I also can't have her telling this to the others.

"How many were they?"

"Thirty something where I was when it started." Her eyes go wide in surprise. "So we protected the people, or at least tried to. I got some cuts and got hit by bats and other stuff more times than I could count. That was… some months ago."

"You fought against terrorists? I can't…" Shit, her eyes are now filled with a weird glow. I think I just made her think even higher of me.

"So that's how I got my scars, that all?"

"Did you manage to protect the people?" She eyes now draw a downwards arc, she must be feeling bad for me.

"No. The bastards… They just didn't care and attacked everyone. Two of my friends… They died that day." Technically, my squad got wiped out according to my cover, so maybe I can link this with that somehow.

But repeating these words bring forth the memories, brings back the cold hands to my shoulders. The explosion comes back to my eyes. The wings of fire, their scorched bodies, how Sumika was gone when I came back, how my world's Meiya told me of their deaths when we met. And how later she too…

If only I hadn't waited…

"Shirogane? Are you alright?"

"Eh? Y-Yeah, I'm fine."

"You're crying. Forgive me, for making you remember such awful memories." She gives me a small bow, not meeting my eye.

I hadn't noticed the tears falling through my cheeks. Shit, I can't… F this shit, I'm out. I can't keep talking to her or I might end up saying something stupid.

"I'm busy, so I'll be leaving. See you tomorrow, Mitsurugi."

"Yes, see you tomorrow."

I turn around and resume my walk, turning it into almost jogging after a couple of steps.

I slow down after a while, wiping my face. Once I got my shit together again, I took the stairs and went towards the elevator on B5F. After arriving at usual the floor, I walk up to the office and knock twice, waiting for Sensei's voice.

"Come in." The door is unlocked, and inside I go. She spun around in her chair to face me, holding some papers in her hand.

"Good evening, Sensei."

"You sure it's good? I saw through the cameras your little argument with Mitsurugi." She strokes her bangs as she begins to spin in her chair.

"Of course you did. Can't do much about that, I did what I could." Couldn't even muster any strength to say it, I sigh as I sit down.

"Any idea why they're acting like this?"

"I alienated them, training with all I had. They think I'm conscripted, and now that they saw my scars they're probably convinced of it."

"In that case don't worry too much. When the time came for you to train on a TSF alongside them it would become obvious you had experience."

"Yeah, I guess. But that's not the only thing I came to talk about today."

"Really? Then, what is it? Want me to comfort you tonight?" She stops spinning, her devilish smile appearing again along her playful tone, placing a finger on her chin.

"Thanks for the offer, but we have some serious problem coming at us."

"A serious problem? Out with it, what's going on?"

Then, I give her all the data I remembered about the invasion of Niigata.

"…And that's all. What do you think we should do, Sensei?"

"Let's see… I could give them some warning, to watch their sonars more carefully, perhaps convince them to move out if they already had some faint readings. What did I do last time?"

"You sent a warning to them, though you never told me what exactly. You also sent the Valkyries to capture some live BETA."

"So I had the same ideas this time. So, should we go with the same plan?"

"Yes, but this time I want to go there too." Sensei's brows lower, her face suddenly resembling the gaze of a basilisk.

"No, I won't allow it."

"Why not? It'll be a perfect opportunity to test the OS in real combat without having eyes upon me, and I could prevent you from bringing too many Laser Class."

"No is no. You're too important an asset to risk you in a little side quest. I can't lose you this early in our plan. You're staying here, that's an order." Facing me with a poker face, her voice was cold as snow.

Wow, I didn't think Sensei would go so far to keep me by her side. Last time she never really showed me any kind of real praise or worry until the very end.

"You won't let me go?"

"No."

"Even if I give you the theories?" Her eyes grow wide, and I can tell she is wavering despite returning to her poker face.

"You'll give me the theories? What about our deal?"

"The deal was for you to complete the XM3 and let me help you in your problems. If I test that the OS works as it should during the battle, you'll be clearing both conditions at once. The OS will have been completed, even if we can keep improving it, and you'll prove to me that you don't see me as just an expendable pawn this time."

"You are not a pawn. You're more like… a tower. Perhaps, would you like to be the Queen?" She smiles again as she brings a finger to her cheek. You never change, really.

"No more teasing, Sensei. If you want me to be the Queen piece in your chessboard, prove me that you trust in me. Let me show you what I and the XM3 can do against the BETA."

We stare firmly at each other, saying nothing for a little while. Eventually, her serious expression reveals a smile.

"Alright. I'll let you go, but you'll have to follow my orders to the letter. No selfish stunts, got it?"

"Yes, Sensei."

"Well, we don't have any Shiranui you could use. I'll arrange an F-15 to be modified with the OS and the new tech we're developing right now. It'll be another nice batch of data for when the Empire asks for results."

"Alright. By the way, how did the talks go?"

"Fine, I guess. They still have to answer my counter-offer, since they didn't expect me to want access to their data while they were testing the stuff. Really, how stupid can they be?"

"But does everything looks on the right track?"

"Yeah, they were willing to alter the databases, so this time I won't have to hide you under a rock all the time someone important comes to the base I guess. Now we have to wait until I can clear your old records and replace them with the fake ones I made up. However, let me tell you that they seemed really interested in our inventions, given the Empire's position I expected as much. I'm sure I can use this to mend the relations with the UN a bit, gaining the favor of both sides while turning some other heads towards me."

"I can see how the Empire and the UN would welcome the aid right now. If it's the UN offering the help, they might be more inclined to accept it. This will make them a bit less paranoid about us with some luck, and since these things were developed with Japanese tech the UN can even suck up to the Empire with them. Pretty sure you'll get many favors in exchange to have the brand new stealth system and all the new engines and stuff be recognized as a Japanese invention." Sensei smiles at me.

"Exactly. And I'm sure the Americans will surely be intrigued by all these babies. I wonder what they will do. So don't worry about the negotiations, you go out there and bring me more useful data without getting harmed. With data on both the Gekishin and Kagerou I'll be able to properly devise a new improvement plan for both models, using all the stuff you brought here."

"Good to know I'm helping. So, I'll be sorting with the Valkyries?"

"Yes, we'll decide your callsign later. And, by the by, what are you going to do with the consoles?" Let's hope she allows me to do this.

"Can I use tomorrow's afternoon class to introduce the things? I kind of told them I needed help for my mission and all of them agreed to aid me."

"Tomorrow? Fine, I can arrange that. I'll inform Marimo about it so that she can keep things under control. Now, why don't you go spend some time with Yashiro? I'm sure you need something to take your mind off things with how much you two have been working as of late."

"Yeah, I'll do that. Good night, Sensei."

---

Around the same time.

(PX.)

[Chizuru]

---

"But he seemed really normal, you know?"

"Yoroi, I'm telling the truth. He excels at everything he does, he was just playing around with us. And those scars? He is definitely a conscripted soldier."

"Agree. Special-kun is super duper good, no way he's a Cadet." I'm agreeing with Ayamine a lot lately. The end of the world is coming closer.

"Um, are you guys sure you're not just jealous?" She still doesn't believe us, huh?

"How could we not be? All we do, all the effort we put in everyday is trampled over by this 'special protegee'. Why did he even need to take the course?" As a Squad Leader I should be ashamed. But as a person, I just can't stand it. He's so good, I don't believe he failed a CCSE.

"Shirogane-san had… trouble with his last unit, right? So he needs to take the CCSE-"

"Tamase, he comes from a foreign unit. Why couldn't he finish his training abroad? Why did the XO personally scout him?"

"…I'm also curious about it. But he's our squadmate now, whatever he did in the past, if he is here to help us, shouldn't we try to be nice to him?"

"Working with an American? I'll pass." I can't believe I'm agreeing with Ayamine yet again. Who could trust an outsider? All they want is to use us to do their bidding.

"Kei-san, that's just cruel. There are a lot of foreigners in the base, they're our comrades too." Yoroi, you're too naive.

They're here to keep this base under the control of America. We can't let our guard down around them. They'll retreat again when it's no longer convenient for them to be here.

"But didn't you all… welcome him just fine when he arrived?" Tamase's gaze sinks in her plate.

"I though he got fed up with the outsider's way of doing things and decided to come back to his roots. After all, if he got taken to another country as a kid he had no say in it, as a child he couldn't disobey his parents." I know that very well, that's why I sympathized with him at first. "But he showed us that not only he is well trained, but he knows much about the foreigners' way of training and thinks they're better than our methods." Even if they're indeed good, we can't… We are not inferior to them. Japan can stand firm by its own might.

"But we can't just leave him alone, the Instructor will rip our heads off." Yoroi says, seriously for once.

"Even so, we have to be careful. I also don't want to seclude him, but we must make sure he truly is our ally and not some traitorous American." And going by his answer to the debate… I have my doubts regarding whether we can place our trust in Shirogane or not.

"So what do you suggest we do, Sakaki?" Mitsurugi said as she approached the table, coming back. She looked conflicted as she slowly walked to her place, a hand caressing her hair.

"So, how did it go? Did you find out where those scars came from?"

"Yes, apparently he received them while defending some people."

"Huh? Defending them from what?" Tamase cocked her head as Mitsurugi sat down.

"Sorry, I promised I wouldn't say."

"So he doesn't want us to know? See? We can't trust in him, he's still keeping things from us."

"I… don't think that's the case." Mitsurugi says as she folds her arms.

"What do you mean?" She avoids my gaze as she tugs at her elbows.

"He seemed truly saddened when he spoke of the matter, he even let out some tears out, so I do not think he was lying. He asked me not to divulge the matter, but he is not a conscripted soldier at the least."

"But… that still doesn't make him any less suspicious. Why can't he tell us about that?" If the XO ordered this, why is she preventing him from speaking? Because it'll confirm that he's an American through and through?

"Chizuru-san, you're being paranoid. Why can't you trust him?" Yoroi joins her hands, eyes downcast.

"Because he arrived at the most perfect time." Mitsurugi answers for me before I could. What is your position regarding Shirogane, I wonder? Are with or against him?

"What do you mean, Meiya-san?"

"He came just before our training became harsher, as if to warn us that we had to improve ourselves even further." She places an elbow onto the table, looking down at nowhere. "He had many words of advice for us, and not a single complain about our performance. Never bragged, never made fun of us, always smiling and being friendly. He's truly an impeccable example, too good to be true. Isn't it odd? What would have we done if not for him taking all the difficult questions and putting the Instructor in a good mood everyday?"

"…You're right, it can't be a coincidence." It aligns to well to be a mere coincidence. Even if he had trouble in his last squad, why would he be so considerate towards us? Even when we argued with him, to never grow upset… to never raise his voice and always be so patient… It is odd.

"…We'd have been so dead." Ayamine says, leaning back and looking up as her lips twist in.

"Also, the fact that he came here under the personal orders of the Vice Commander is another reason to suspect him. What reason could the XO have to add him to our squad a mere month before the CCSE?" I'm glad to have him on the team, but I'd like to know where his loyalty lies. I can't work with an American in good conscience, who knows what he'll do in the CCSE?

"Shirogane-san has to take it to be able to become a surface pilot. Even if he's so talented, if he doesn't graduate it doesn't matter."

"Tamase, you are too kind." Mitsurugi says. "He could have easily graduated anywhere with his skills, it's actually hard to believe that he was allowed to come here. Who would give away such a talented soldier? I wouldn't have let him slip out of my grasp if I were the commander of his former base."

"Mitsurugi is right yet again. I want you all to think about what we'll do during the CCSE, in case he decides to go against us. Let's try to get along, to avoid enraging the Instructor, and let's see how he acts from today on." I look at all of them in the eye, as a leader I have to transmit my resolve to them. Otherwise they'll just go and tell him everything.

"Chizuru-san, you're too cold." Yoroi's eyes almost close as she looks down into her plate.

"No, I just don't want to fail again. If there is anything that might get in my squad's way it's up to me to bring the matter to the table, so that we can decide what to do as a team."

"Then shouldn't we ask Shirogane-san about this?" Tamase, you truly are too naive. Surely you know what the word 'betrayal' means, right?

"You think he'll talk?" It's really weird how much we agree these days.

"Exactly. Even if we ask him, he'll just say again that he isn't perfect and that he wasn't conscripted."

"Actually…" Mitsurugi caressed her ponytail, looking up. "Shirogane did seem pretty shaken about our attitude today. He did ask me to not be so cold towards him, to not leave him out of the squad. He told me he was going to be serious from now on. I believe we should refrain from making a judgment until we see if he truly shows us his true colors."

"He did? Well then, I suppose we can give him a second chance. But Mitsurugi, what do you suggest we do if he turns out to be influenced by the American Way?"

"…I suppose we can only grit our teeth and work with him until we get commissioned. I'll be going back to my room. Good night." Mitsurugi stands up to leave, and we all soon follow.

I can't let this chance go away, I have to pass the CCSE. Even if it's in the UN, after two years of service I'll be able to request to be transferred to the MDF. Even if my father disowns me, I rather die fighting under my nation's flag than live on as a dog of America.

Shirogane, I don't know who you are or why you're here but I won't let you ruin this. The squad is already quite hard to control, I don't need another reason to fight between us. I thought you would be a good addition, but you're a giant mystery. All that skill with guns must have come from America. No way in hell I'll trust an American soldier. Not after what America did.

I know, I'll go check his records. I wonder if I can find from where he got transferred. Yeah, he is Japanese. I'm sure he must have his reasons. I shouldn't judge him because he was forced to live in America.

I sigh, shaking my head. Moving my neck in circles, I crack my knuckles as I speed up in the hallways towards the library, since it's almost lights out.

The clerk lets me in, reminding me I have less than an hour to be here before he has to close it down. The dim yellow lights partially illuminate the library's rows of bookshelves, the farthest part of it being blocked by shadows. I walk to the open space to the left, where some PCs were placed on rows, separated by small walls into cubicles. I sit down and swipe my ID Card, putting my Rank and name in the confirmation box that appears on the screen.

The PC is unlocked, bringing me to the black screen with just a few icons. We Cadets only have S1 level of clearance, but this should be enough to look at his summarized personal data. Let's go to the records…

"Cadet Squad 207th… Members… Shirogane… What?!" I could only gape at what the error message said.

I blinked, it didn't change. I took my glasses off and rubbed my eyes. But the message didn't change. I closed my eyes and sighed, exiting the window. I then tried again. But the message didn't change.

There's an S5 lock on Shirogane's personal data, I can't even access the screen pop up. What is this? Why does he have such a high security lock? Who are you supposed to be? Even if you're the XO's special boy, this is just unacceptable. Not even Mitsurugi or me have such a lock, even if I suppose her profile is as bare bones as my own.

Wait, let's check the public databases of the Shogunate. At least some info should turn up there. How was the address again? Let's see in the book of useful links… Here it is.

Now, I don't know anything about Shirogane other than his name so I hope there aren't many Shiroganes with the same name. Let's sort it by age… Hmm… This one should be his profile, going by how old he looks. There are no other Takeru Shirogane profiles in the right age range anyways. Why does it only has his name on it? The rest of the columns are all blank. Well, doesn't matter. Let's see here…

But, again, an error message popped up on the screen.

…What does this mean? Access Denied?! Why would his public profile be blocked as well? Did he… hack the database? This is illegal. No, scratch that, it's impossible. No civilian should have this kind of privilege.

"What can I… Mitsurugi! She is the only one that can know for sure." With her resources I'm sure she'll be able to find out more about him.

I rush out of the library, towards Mitsurugi's room. If there's anyone who could find out the meaning of this it's her. There's no justification for his data to be blocked. But… what if… he's an undercover agent? That would explain his skill. But from which faction? From Japan to spy the UN; or someone sent to spy us?

No… He got sent to our squad so suddenly… Considering mine, Mitsurugi's and Ayamine's backgrounds, even if I do not know of Tamase's and Yoroi's, this could only be one of two possibilities. He's here to watch over us, or… And with his skill with guns, coming possibly from America… He's here to make sure we fail the CCSE.

I reach the barracks, slowing down as I feel my boots' grip ease up on the floor, and go knock on Mitsurugi's door. I hope she didn't go to sleep yet.

"Mitsurugi? Are you still awake?" A short while after I knocked the door opens.

"Sakaki? I was about to go do some jogging, why did you knock so hard? It's not that late yet for me to be asleep." She looked surprised as she stroked her long ponytail.

"I have a favor to ask of you. Could you come with me to the library?"

"The library? What is this about?"

"I think I found out… a lead on Shirogane's background." Her gaze grows sharper as she raises her chin, I had forgotten how imposing she can be.

"Is this true?"

"Yes, and only you can obtain this information. I know it goes against our non-interference policy, and that you dislike using your influence without good reason, but we cannot ignore this. Could you please come with me?"

"…Understood. Let us go."

---

[?]

---

"Hmm… A most interesting development indeed."

"All leads on the matter make us believe that your suspicions were correct." The soldier said. Truly unexpected, but a welcome surprise.

"I see. Then regarding our deal…"

"It will be done. If everything goes according to plan, they will get the approval to send the project there."

"Do you think you can convince that fox?"

"Professor Kouzuki is a very hard to approach woman, but given her current position she won't be able to reject the proposal, in my opinion."

"And what if she does?"

"We can always resort to them. I'm sure they also have the same wishes as you do regarding this business." Yes, despite our differences this is a matter in which we think alike.

"Then you have my support. I expect good news soon. I'll give the orders to my fellows once you confirm the deal on the other end. I suppose they won't mind this arrangement, what do you think?"

"No, they seem mostly pleased with this deal. If they can get their hands on those Type-94 you promised them they will be satisfied. So long as they keep the 1Cs that will be produced under their grasp, I believe they'll be satisfied."

"A reasonable demand. By the by, did you acquire any intel on that new cadet on Squad 207?"

The man looks down, coughing once.

"…I'm afraid not. Any info on him is under a heavy lock."

Damn you, Kouzuki. Just what are you doing now? You've stopped giving reports on your research and now this. On whose side are you?

"Alright. Let's not push our luck in that matter. I'll be awaiting your call."

"Very well. Have a good day." After a small bow he turns around and leaves.

I wasn't expecting the pieces to fall down with such ease in this lineup. Be as it may, I have little choice but to leave the 1C on their hands. However, with their support, I'm sure Kouzuki will find herself unable to refuse our terms.

Now all that's left is dealing with this 'Shirogane'. How should we off him?