Chapter 16: Muddy Water/Moody Hearts
November 17th. 3:11 PM.
(Yokohama Base. Runway 1.)
[Yuuko]
"Raise rifles! Fire!" One of the officers gave the order and several gunshots were heard.
All the staff present were saluting the three flags that represented the losses of our members during the Niigata Incident. Of course, we couldn't say they died during that so officially they died during a test run.
Eiko Higurashi, Ayu Daikuuji, Mayu Tamano. We lost three valuable members of the A-01 squad, I cannot imagine what would have happened if I hadn't sent Shirogane along with them. Thankfully he's out there making sure we get Squad 207B ready to join Squad A-01, but still…
I only hope you don't let your guard down. The CCSE's obstacles were decided a month ago so there was next to nothing I could do to aid Shirogane. I suppose I should trust in him overcoming this if he is to play the role I need him for. After all, High Command was suffering a lot of pressure this time so there was little room for modifications to the plan. Considering your warning of Alt. V and the elections next year I'm not surprised they're trying to keep the pigeons inside the cage.
Don't do anything reckless, Shirogane. If I had warned him, I'm sure he would have tried to take some weapon with him. Even if it goes against what I promised him, I have to leave him in the dark to avoid people to get suspicious of him. Even if Shirogane is supposed to be my bodyguard, he's still a trainee according to the records so he shouldn't have access to this kind of intel. Furthermore, if he for some reason were to fail, I can still assign him as my assistant anyways and have him fight as the Viking.
The ceremony is finished, and all personnel returns to their duties. I take one last look at the flags, squinting my eyes one last time the faces and voices that no longer were with us, before I exhaled through my nose and slowly turned around. The Valkyries slowly came towards me, most of them still hanging their heads.
"Vice Commander, should we go to the briefing room immediately?" Isumi addresses me with no longer a hint of sadness in her tone.
"Yes, I know your squad is not on top form but we still need to start this project. I'll be waiting." I quickly make my way to our briefing room.
It's time we start the testing of the XM3, I'll use the Valkyries as additional samples to gather data. Since I'll be focused on these theories for the foreseeable future I need to take care of this now, especially now that I have to rely on her for the second one.
Once I reach the room, Piatiff comes up to me.
"Vice Commander, I received word from Y about the matters you discussed." Finally, it took your sweet time to answer my call.
"Alright, let's go inside. You can tell me in detail there." We enter the room and I sit down. It's rare for Chief Yoroi to take so long to answer, let's see what I got. "Tell me, what did he answer to my petitions?"
"He said he found no intel about Cadet Shirogane and refused to divulge anything about Captain Takamura."
"So he refused. Not unexpected, but more straightforward than I thought he'd be. Any word on their reactions to the testing the Blood squad has been doing?"
"He said that the Shogun was most pleased with the results she heard from them, and Her Highness would like to make a formal agreement for the licensing and producing rights." Fast as always, damn royalty. For all I know, Takamura might even take the railgun with her by force once we finish it.
"Remind me, the Blood squad was testing the F-4J variations of our new tech right?"
"Yes, ma'am. Engine 0460-NE-TH3, Jump Units 311-ZEU-I0, and radars and sensors V-C834-URI." Ugh, she had to use the codenames. I gave them nicknames for a reason, we made so many prototypes and diagrams that I no longer remember which is which.
"Then we'll make a deal for those models only. The improved variations that were used on Shirogane's F-15J will be released as a different batch, and will be out of our deal. Of course, the new armor and antenna designs are also out of the deal." I won't show them all my cards, if he refused to give me any intel whatsoever under the pretense that she's a noble is all I needed to hear. Time to put up the firewall.
"Yes, ma'am. Allow me to inform you that the revised OS has already been installed on all the TSFs of the A-01 STF. According to the checks it should be working flawlessly."
"Perfect. Has Shirogane's F-15J been repaired already?"
"Yes, it's back to full functionality."
"We'll use the data on its computer along the spare parts I got to make a whole new TSF. I already gave the orders to the engineering team, but make sure that they stay in Hangar 90 during the process. I obtained all the data I could get on the Active Eagle, so I'll leave the Chief Engineer on charge of this. I want a daily report at 7 PM about the progress of this project."
"Yes, ma'am!" Since she's a foreigner I know she won't betray me to the Empire or America. At least I have some people I can rely on here.
We already have the tech tested to make a trial for mass production, with this all the F-4J and F-15J on the base will get a great boost in performance and will gain some stealth. Once we roll out the XM3 our firepower will be at its highest level. This will make some people happy, but now with this Takamura's arrival in a few days and Yoroi's answers I'm convinced the Shogun is only using us. The days where the UN and the Empire cooperated with each other seem to be at an end.
So, if I can develop our own brand of the F-15 using Shirogane's data, I'm sure the UN will give me much more support than before. Especially since most of the units that are fighting on Africa and on the Far East Frontline are F-15 variations, aside from the soviet machines of course.
Hopefully that will be enough to placate Her Purpleness, since all these new toys will be recorded as Japanese inventions. Doubt she will start a frontal assault on us, but with the Royal Guard behind her… If they come at us with all their Type-00 we won't be able to hold the line. Thanks to their policies, we can't have any TSF that isn't made in Japan. How would I like to get some Typhoons or even some Super Hornets, but I'm stuck with Shiranuis for my best squad. The only 3rd Gen TSF that is incompatible with any and all other pieces of hardware.
I believe that Shirogane's F-15 will end up being better than the Shiranuis we have, even with the XM3 he had there's no argument that his mech was still more nimble thanks to the upgraded parts. If the Empire would have given me some Type-00C I wouldn't be complaining, but thanks to their backwards way of thinking they refuse to give even one to anyone.
Isumi and the rest of the squad arrive. All of them salute me, how many times do I have to tell them to drop the formalities with me?
"Valkyries, let's get right to the point. From now on, during the evening, you will be testing a new OS for TSFs that has been in the works for some time now. Its prototype was used on the F-15J that joined you on the Niigata Invasion. I want you all to do your best during these testings. You will also have some special training on some new simulators I developed, in which you'll take some other training aside from the new OS's testing. Isumi, you'll be in charge of the drills. 1st Lt. Suzumiya, I want a daily report at 7 PM. The rest, break it down as much as you want. The more bugs and issues you find, the better. Of course, this is a secret mission. Not a single word gets out to anyone other than me, not even to the CO or High Command. Any questions?" 2nd Lt. Suzumiya quickly raises her hand and I nod her way.
"Vice Commander, will the pilot of the F-15 join us for the testings?" Oho, looks like you got yourself a fan Shirogane.
"No, the Viking currently undergoing a different mission. As I said before, that pilot is my personal bodyguard so do not expect the Viking to join this unit, in the short term at the least. Anything else?" Isumi raise her hand this time.
"Vice Commander, I have two questions. First, what kind of trainings do you wish us to perform?"
"All kinds. From urban fights, to infiltrations, to hive missions. I want a complete testing of this OS. Of course, in due time we will do some live tests with it. As for the new sims, just use them and get a feel on them. You'll have to go to the underground for these tests, but I expect you to be pleasantly surprised by them." If only those girls had agreed to train with Shirogane. Well, it's their loss. I want some data on that, and I want to see if the Valkyries can get as good as Shirogane by playing that 'Valgern-On' game.
"Understood. Then, due to the losses during the Niigata Invasion we no longer have enough Vanguards. How should we modify our formation, in your opinion?" I sense her worry in her voice, even if she is hiding it behind a poker face. The members of Squad 207 that joined the Valkyries just completed their first mission, they're not ready to take the position of Storm Vanguard.
"I know that sending someone on their second mission as a Vanguard is madness, but those are the cards we have been dealt. All members of Squad 207A did a good job, I'll let you decide who the partner of 1st Lt. Hayase will be. Any other questions?" And now Hayase raises her hand. What is today? Why do they have so many questions?
"Vice Commander, I wanted to ask… How did you predict the movements of the BETA? Do we have that technology with us?" Oh, so that's it. I forgot about that with the theories and the negotiations with the Shogunate.
"That's classified intel. And it's not like we predicted all of their movements, we didn't expect the Forts to be so full of the lower strains. Also, it was the first time they had Laser-Class in them. Now, next question. Anyone?"
Now, it seems that nobody has any more questions. I dismiss them and then go to my office, where Yashiro was waiting for me.
"Good afternoon, Professor. The scanning has been done. The list is ready."
"Well done, Yashiro. So did you identify all the spies in the base?"
"I think so. Many people were glancing towards the ceremony, and there were many whispering to try and learn what actually happened. But the ones that wanted that intel not out of curiosity or sadness, but with desire to profit from it… I have them all marked here. They're just ten."
"That's still a lot of people. Well, I'll give the order for them to be… sent on a very cruel mission to the frontlines." Yashiro shuddered at my words as a fearful expression flooded her face.
"What will you do with them?"
"Well, we do need more 'volunteers' for the live testing of the Yellow Dust, right?" She twitched with a horrified look on her eyes, as if a circuit board she was working on gave her a discharge.
"Professor, human experimentation is illegal." I know that already.
"They are going to be executed anyways, what's the harm in making them be useful one last time?"
"That is torture. You shouldn't do it. There's plenty of live BETA to test the chemical on." She was shooting an angry glare at me as she kept moving her ears up and down.
"We still need data on how it affects humans."
"I do know that. However…"
Then, the door to my office opens and… Ugh, her.
"Hi, Yuu-chan. I got the results of the analysis of those Shiranui."
"Motoko-nee, how many times do I have to tell you to not call me that? Also, knock the damn door before entering. And don't bring your smoke in here." I swear, she does it on purpose every damn time. She knows I hate the smell of tobacco, and yet she always comes here with a recently lit cigarette.
"Yeah, whatever. Here's the report, it's now 2% less deadly."
"2%? All our work for months just for a 2%?"
"What did you expect? They were in contact with the gas for around two minutes, it's actually amazing their jump units didn't melt too." I know we are on uncharted territory here, using G-Elements to make chemical weapons, but to see so little progress is disheartening.
"No, you're right. How was the data from the BETA?"
"No changes, they still only get stunned for around five minutes. We would need to concentrate the liquid more to make the effects either last more or be more severe, but if we do that forget about anyone close from surviving."
"We don't even have enough G-Elements to make proper testing in the first place. I'll be handing you some more live samples to test on, remember to be careful with them. Also, tonight I want to have a talk with you, there's some papers I want you to read." I'm sure that the other world's Motoko had a hand in that second theory Shirogane gave me, only her could have helped the other me with all those psychological matters. She is truly an eminence when it comes to the human body, especially the brain.
"I know that, I'll be careful with the dolls. And what are the papers about? Are you going to finally introduce me to that Shirogane?"
"No, how many times do I have to tell you? Shirogane is my bodyguard. I'm not lending him to anyone. You just want to examine his brain, don't you?"
"And his blood, cells, natural immunities. If he is keeping up with you he's someone worth studying." You make it sound as if I were some kind of monster.
"Maybe when he gets back, I might introduce you two if you help me with my problem. I'll go gather the dolls, you go on ahead and ready the chamber."
"Fine, fine. Don't worry, Yuu-chan. We are making progress, so don't stress yourself over this."
"Chief Researcher Kouzuki, please stop calling me that." I try to glare at her, but she only smiles at me. I'll never be able to deal with any of you two.
"Ooh, so scary. Well, Vice Commander Yuu-chan I'll be on my way. Bye!" And with a half-hearted salute she leaves the room.
Seriously, why do they always tease me like that? Sigh… No matter what I do, they always have that attitude towards me. It's good that they haven't changed, but it's still annoying. Especially when I know Motoko-nee is only here to support me, stop teasing me if you know I don't like it.
"Professor… Are you really going to send the spies to the chamber?" Yashiro asked with a trembling voice.
"Technically, they broke their oath to the UN by taking part in multiple political actions. So we are just deciding their punishment. And if you have any mercy for them in your heart, remember that they won't hesitate to kill you or me if they were ordered to do so."
"I know… It's just that…" She hangs her head, clearly conflicted with our current situation.
"It's on my hands, Yashiro. You do not have to tag along if you don't want to." I turn around and leave, towards the Command Room.
Yashiro soon follows with her eyes glued to the ground.
Same Day. 9:16 AM.
(Tokyo. Imperial Palace.)
[Yuuhi]
"So the rumors were true then?"
"Yes, Your Highness. Someone did exert some pressure on both the Minister of Defense and some members of the Parliament for some reason." Maya was making a pained expression.
This is a grave violation to our political accord. I am the only one the Minister of Defense should obey, and the members of the Parliament should not be influenced by members of the other branches of our power.
"I suppose this is connected to what Yoroi had reported? The restart of the railgun project in Yokohama?"
"That's what he concluded, Lt. Colonel Iwaya also had the same thoughts." I'm glad to see some people on the Ministry of Defense are still on my side, even if it only brings hardships their way.
"I see. What amount of funds were taken from the Kyoto Project?"
"Around 20%, however some workers were fired as well."
Sigh… These men will never understand. What are they even trying to accomplish? What could possibly be gained from making our civilian's lives worse and ruining the restoration of the Capital? What could be worth taking such a daunting road as to hamper the restoration, knowing the nobility would certainly inquire into the matter? I am simply at an utter absence of answers.
"Give word to the MDF that I order more patrols in the civilian districts. Their security and wellbeing should be their priority, do not let anyone interfere with the repairs and maintenance or the distribution of food and medicine, even if they are from the Guard." I know that the army is not obligated to follow my orders now, but I hope they can perform this duty for me. It's frustrating, I feel like a puppet with its strings cut, left with no option than to further fall into stillness.
"Y-Your Highness! The Royal Guard would never go against your wishes!"
"Maya, you know that some of them bear quite the strong grudge towards me, for asking help from America during the '99. And that's without taking into account all the grudges they still hold towards Operation Lucifer." I'm truly surprised they still heed my words, to be honest. With how prideful they are, I had assumed they would have been much more dismissive towards my few requests. "Furthermore, it wouldn't surprise me if they began to openly oppose the MDF instead of cooperating with their men, now that the Diet has chosen, or perhaps has been forced, to take this road to gather the much needed funds for our rearmament in such way."
"With all due respect, no one would dare question your position within our ranks, for your efforts are what have maintained our peace thus far."
A frown betraying her facade, small taints began to burn away her composure, the darkening shadow of a paper being burnt atop a candle could very well be her expression as of now, just before it lights up in a blaze. And yet, as slow as the beginnings of a squall, the dam was almost about to overflow, those drops had amassed on her eyes, soon to simply spill away and flood everything around.
Kneeling in petrification, as if surrounded by barbed wires, she barely restrained her desire to look down, away from me, away from what she was recalling regarding that mission, those days, those so distant, so darkening, so sorrowful days were… we simply lost what we cherished oh so dearly.
She gulps, taking a moment to tap her glasses. I slowly sigh, entwining my fingers. That simple thought was plentiful enough, bountiful enough to force me to sheathe my smile.
I wonder when it this began, that thinking about you brought this pause to my heart. How a simple word made me abhor this nothingness all around me, how a mere thought could oh so easily enhance the solitude of this palace on my shoulders.
"…I appreciate your words, however, we both know what repercussions those days, and that particular operation, had in our fellows. It is most foolish to not take into account the possibility that, perhaps, my words have a listener no longer within the Regency Council."
"As much as it brought us shame what had to be done before and after that operation, you only had the wellbeing of the people in mind. I assure you, no one would dare to question your authority!"
"I appreciate your loyalty, truly I do, however that is no longer the state of affairs within our force." Yet again, I sigh. Yet again, she frowns. "By the way, how have those tests on Yokohama been proceeding? Has Mana sent her report already?" Giving her a smile, to change the air between us, she then taps her glasses and nods, her eyes not entirely satisfied with the end of this trail.
"…Yes, she is most impressed with the machines. Just with a few modifications and upgrades, the F-4J gained an admirable mobility and speed. If those parts are mass produced, our fleet of Gekishins, and perhaps of Zuikakus as well, would gain a few years of reliable usage. According to her report, Mana believes it possible that they could be deployed to the frontlines under this new block."
Impressing. For Mana to give such praise they must be truly amazing. I do wonder why no word was given until so recently, it is odd this went unnoticed for so long… and it is worrying to ponder that the UN could be hiding much under Yokohama's veil.
"Did Kouzuki mention anything regarding doing a similar refurbishing plan for the F-15J or other armaments?"
"No, so far Mana has received no word of any more developments from her. However, she did ask about Takamura to Chief Yoroi. She seems suspicious of her."
"Is that so? She is a member of the Fudai, with how the nobility has treated Kouzuki I'm not surprised she is doubting her. Did my envelope reach Takamura already?"
"Yes, Your Highness. Yoroi delivered it to Lt. Col. Iwaya, so it is a matter of time before we receive an answer."
That is good to hear. Now, I think I know how I can prove to Kouzuki that I'm different from the rest of the nobles, so long as she is willing to listen.
"Then… Once Kouzuki sees for herself that Takamura is someone that can be trusted I want her to notify me, I have a message I myself want to give to the Vice Commander." Maya looks slightly troubled by my words but still nods at me.
"Understood."
"Maya, how many spare Type-00C do we have here?"
"How many? I think around… ten, perhaps? We still have not filled all the vacant positions with recruits. I apologize for the delay, it has been a tall ordeal to find people worthy of our trust." She bows down, I sigh as I slowly shake my head at her refusal to loosen her facade.
"Do not apologize. However, do not worry about recruiting more people. Please tell our mechanics to get those Type-00C in prime condition as soon as they can."
"What is the matter, Your Highness? …Have you found recruits by yourself?"
"No, I wish to give some Type-00Cs to Yokohama Base as a sign of friendship." Maya seems to be appalled by my words, for her to widen her eyes so, for her mouth to also follow suit, for the expression to last more than what a frail moment.
"Your Highness, please reconsider! If you do so, the other Regent Houses will not remain quiet, and that will assuredly brew animosity towards your person. All variants of the Type-00 are the Royal Guard's prized weapon, to lend it to foreigners is-"
"I will not simply lend it. Officially, it'll be a test for export purposes. We are in grave need of more funds, and we have a very capable TSF at our disposal. With our current resources we cannot produce many of them, however if we manage to ignite interest on their services the Empire could then proceed to make an appealing deal. It is a nice business opportunity we cannot miss, if I say so myself."
"H-However… to give our most prized weapon to foreigners… Our trade secrets would get exposed! This won't be welcomed by the population or the rest of the Guard. Please, do not act on the belief that you are-"
"Sadly, that is the board we face today, Maya. And this is as little as I can do, to not upset the frail balance of power that has kept us afloat during these tempestuous years."
"However… Even if Kouzuki would be on your side, we cannot trust in the UN. Gifting our most advanced craft, our greatest domestic weapon, to the foreign powers so easily will-"
"By those standards, shouldn't we dispose of all of our F-4J and F-15J since they're originally foreign tech?"
"N-No, I was not referring to-"
"Also, under that same mindset, we should discard the Zuikaku as well since it is no more than a clone of an American TSF, a foul amalgamation of prized Imperial tech and foreign developments."
"No, I never-"
"By that logic then, we also should destroy all of our A-6s as well as all of our ships that were procured outside of the Empire with the aid of COSEAN, since they aren't produced domestically. The same should then apply to the tanks, helicopters, building materials, food, and so on. Maya, do you truly think a nation can be self-sufficient in this day and age?" She lowers her head to the ground hastily, perhaps I let my irritation make it seems as if I were reprimanding her when I had no such intention.
"My apologies! I did not meant to criticize your judgment, I will accept any punishment you give me."
Why do always have to be so extreme? There's no need to be like that with me when we're alone. Maya you're like an older sister for me, and you should know that already.
…Takeru would be making fun of you for being like this right now. Sigh… I look backwards for a moment, to where he always used to stand, and am met with absolute absence. How much do I miss his optimism and smile, even if they had also vanished during our last months together.
"It is alright, raise Maya. I have taken no offense, so, if you understood my wishes, please relay the message to our mechanic crew. I'll have a talk with the other leaders, I am convinced we can reach an agreement."
"How can you be so sure of this, Your Highness?"
"Because they need my approval for the transfer of these next batch of Shiranui-1C to the Fuji Corps, even if only as a formality. The IJA won't welcome them unless I bequeath my blessing to this arrangement." Soft as it might be, it is the power I still hold today. And I have an obligation to wield it as best as I'm able, to ensure no more swords have to be broken. "I'm confident that I can make them agree to my terms after some cups of tea."
"Understood. I'll go right away to deliver this message. However, before I take my leave, there is one last matter I must inform you of." She then looks down, eyelids descending as softly as leaves during Autumn, the most chilling view of a desolated forest at dusk, the lack of habitual sounds and tells, the forced neutral facade in her face forebode ill matters.
"…Whatever is the matter?"
"…After hearing the project of the food plant had been rejected, Raiko-sama has requested an audience with you. She also let me know she was desiring to discuss other… matters, regarding your refusal to continue the operations of-"
"I believe I have made myself clear enough on this matter. Inform her my stance hasn't changed, and do thank her for the patience she has showed during these trying times for the project. Also… request a report from her, regarding the matter of the food plant. That shall be all."
"…You do not wish to grant her an audience then?"
"…No, there is no need. Has her squadron remained stationed as I requested of her?"
"But of course, Your Highness. Raiko-sama's Chain Squadron has been sending constant reports to us on their surveillance of the Capital. Please rest assured, the Amato House has remained loyal to your wishes. I myself have confirmed she has followed your commands to the letter, despite her… strong opinions against your posture, which I must admit I share to some degree."
"…Is that truly so?" I inhale slowly, feeling a small twister form on the base of my neck.
It rotates, trying to spur back those days once again. What was lingering in my mind after our prior talk was drawn to the twister, biting my lips I swallowed all that vile down. All those words, all those images, all of it is taken to its tail, clogging my mind and stagnating my breathing for a moment.
"Do you still refuse to give her your blessing, Your Highness?"
"…I have made myself clear already. No more words are required between that woman and me."
"However, in light of recent events, perhaps it would-"
"Do tell her I am most thankful for her support and that I desire to maintain the peace we enjoy today, as he would have wished. No more blades need to be broken. Would that be clear enough?"
"…Yes, Your Highness." She nods, stands up, and after a deep bow she leaves uttering no further words.
I waited some moments, making sure no one would come in after she left. And once I gained that confirmation…
"…Sigh." I should apologize to Maya once the night is over for me.
I inhale through my nose, looking towards the balcony. I stand up and walk up to it, taking in the view, sighing yet again.
Grabbing onto the cold fence, those days return. Placing a hand on the base of my neck, I begin to take deep breaths, to reiterate my forgiveness towards him, to reaffirm my pledge towards peace, letting the twister run its course, letting it be drained away.
And yet, the absence around me only makes those echoes all the more unbearable on my ears.
"…It is no surprise, that you still remain trapped in those days. I do not believe myself capable of ever leading you, Raiko-san."
For I am not a warrior, my ways of fighting are different than what she holds dear. Yet, those days are over and I cannot let them return. Thinking twice, I should be requesting Daizaburou-sama's counsel for this matter. I am certain he should know how to quell her frustration, justified as it is. Our plans have all met with dead ends, and I cannot yet tell her of these accords with Kouzuki. While I… certainly appreciate her fervent devotion, there is no more need… for such hostile stances to remain in our code.
Peace… I shall tackle those matters at a latter time. Until then, I shall focus on what little it is I can do without tipping the scales. Tis a harshest trial I am facing, yet these are the cards I've been dealt with.
Now that I think about it… Meiya must be about to begin her own trial as of now. I wonder, how is she faring as of late? Hopefully you can brave through whatever obstacles lay in your path, sister. Mana did report that she managed to endure her harsher training regime, and even said there was a new recruit on the team. Thinking back on it, Mana didn't report much about her, not even her name. What kind of girl could this sixth member be? A foreigner, perhaps? I only hope she's getting along with Meiya. I should ask Mana for more details next time.
"In any case, I hope the tailwinds remain at your back, Meiya. Please remain strong during these days." Closing my eyes and interlocking my fingers, I send a prayer to the skies. May you fare well in this trial of-
"…Your Highness, the president of the council of maintenance workers has arrived. Should I tell him to come in?" The Grand Chamberlain notifies me of my next meeting, breaking my concentration.
"Yes, it is alright." She bows and swiftly exits the room once more.
Sigh… I can't even have a minute for myself. Am I not even allowed to daydream for a moment? I wish I could contact Meiya from time to time, but even that is seen as 'taboo'.
Takeru, you were right. The Empire's traditions and customs are not upheld by anyone and are just twisted to the convenience of the powerful. I wanted to believe that there were more honorable people within our ranks, but most of the nobles only work for their own house's interests as opposed to doing so for our people, and our politicians only wish to retain their seats. They rejected all the laws and projects I sent without much explanation, and suddenly they approve such a big increase in the budget of the production for the Type-94? Preposterous, how they think I'll be beguiled by such balderdash.
You must be laughing at me in Heaven. I never thought I would be chosen as the Shogun, but it's my duty and I will fulfill my role. I won't let your death be in vain when you took my place in Operation Lucifer, I'll fix this nation even if I have to go against all the other Regent Houses. I already know only the Kujo house is on my side, so I need to be careful around them.
However, it is no wonder how powerless I am now after the hardships that came after Lucifer despite your efforts to aid me. However, I cannot see how you would have taken these two years. I doubt you would have enjoyed this state of affairs.
"Hehe, you would have lost your temper many moons ago, assuredly." I caress my fringe, smiling. Even so, placating your anger would have been far more pleasant than it is enduring the void you left on my side.
The door opens and the man in question enters the room. This will be another endless day of reunions, I suppose.
[?]
"Are you absolutely sure of this?"
"Yes, I'm being serious. I must be careful about this, any odd movement they notice would get me in prison. Just… If it's possible, I'd like you all to consider my offer."
"I assure you, we are more than willing to agree to your plan and I might be able to convince them. But this eventually falls on you, we cannot involve ourselves unless there's definitive proof."
"I know that. I'll try to gather any intel I can on my end, and for the record I'm not asking you to rush in here and kill them all. I just wish that, if the situation escalates, and your end is secured, you can lend me a hand. I assure you your help will be rewarded quite gracefully." I hear him laugh on the other end.
"Your initial offering was good enough already, if you assure us we can get in there, I will definitely get the approval to deploy them. I shall await that intel, in the meantime I'll start the talks on my side to get things done. But I promise nothing, you know we are also on a very complicated position." Of course I know, I was there too. That's why I can't let this chance pass me by. It is my obligation to do this!
"Thanks, I'll end the call here. And worry not, the support for the Sakhalin front is already on the way. Godspeed." Hanging up, I quickly survey my surroundings to catch any possible eavesdroppers. I can only hope this went well and the call didn't get spied upon.
Luckily there's no one at this hour moving through the hallways. With this, the worst case scenario has been avoided. If they agree to help, I'll be able to stop all resistance before things escalate out of control. If I can bring the Royal Guard down, the rest should be over quickly.
And if I do die, may this blood of mine serve as the fuel that will spark up our soul's fire back. I won't let the Empire continue on it's current way, even if I'm seen as a heretic. I'm honor-bound to follow this path, no matter what awaits me at the end of the road. Nothing shall hinder my plans this time.
Is there anything else I can do? If I want to stay unnoticed I better leave it for today. Tomorrow, however…
There are a couple of people I'd like to call. The Captain of the 1st Regimen, Naoya Sagiri, and the Captain of the 2nd Regimen, Takako Saito. Of course I'll have to lie a bit, or a lot to be more accurate, but I need to confirm on whose side they are.
Maybe this is a too bold move, but I can't move my bishops before moving my pawns. Is there anyone else I should try to contact? Hmm… I should get one of those jamming devices to cover my voice before though. Last thing I want is they reporting me to the authorities. I'll try to be more careful from now on. There seems to be quite a commotion on the palace as of late.
Hahaha, what a fool I am. Of course there's a commotion, with Alt. IV standing on its last legs. Well, let's take one step a time. With some luck, the BETA will attack again and give me a window to act to my leisure here. Seriousness above everything, failure is not an option. I do need to get some more intel to get them to act, so let's be discreet about this. Only I can perform this duty, it's my responsibility to put a stop to this.
November 17th. 1st Day of the CCSE.
(Island. Around 6 AM.)
[Takeru]
"Alright. Squad, let's march to the rendezvous point!" Chizuru shouted as we finished burying the torpedoes in which we got sent here. I had forgotten how much this thing shakes.
The way here was pretty awkward. The submarine was so small we were all basically pushing against each other the whole time. Thank God I was the last one to enter and took my spot against a wall, I only had to deal with Mikoto's comments about how jacked I was. Honestly, she's always in her own world.
The sun started peeking through the horizon as we moved, eventually making it to the place where we meet up with the Instructor, however Sensei wasn't here sunbathing this time.
"Good day, squad. As of now, your second CCSE is in motion. Squad leader, here are your orders. Your supplies and equipment are in that box over there. Once all of you are ready I'll start the explanation."
"Roger!"
I ended up with the worn down one again, I make sure to apply the tobacco spray on it. Then I tear a bit of the broken belt and make a strong knot. I don't know how to knit so this is the best I can do, at least the belt won't break on me and I did the knot as tight as I could. After we all got ready the Instructor started the briefing.
And to my surprise, it's the same mission on the same island. Which means that there's gonna be more traps than before.
"If you are to separate, each team has to take one map and one radio with them. You have three of each, so be careful to not lose or damage them. You have 144 hours to complete the test. If anyone gets left behind and part of the team arrives at the evacuation point, we will give the rest one day more to finish, unless the remaining time is less than that. That is all. Synchronize your watches with me. Three, two, one… Start!"
…
"Alright, given the size of the island and how far apart are all targets from one another, I think the best way for us to rack up as many points as we can is by splitting up from the start in three groups." Chizuru said as she looked at the map. Just as before.
"Um… Can I take Point A? Since it's closer to the shore my stamina won't be so much of an issue if I travel through low ground." Tama pointed to the target to the west of our current position.
"I see. Shirogane since you're faster and have more stamina than us, can you take care of Point B?" It's like I'm fated to go there.
"Sure, I got it." I'm gonna get that fuel just in case. For all I know, the traps might be so brutal that escaping on the boat might be the faster and safer way to… Wait, what if they put traps on the sea too? Ugh, now I don't know if it's such a good idea.
"Then let's arrange the rest accordingly. Mitsurugi will go with Tamase, Shirogane with me, and Yoroi and Ayamine will take care of Point C. Any objections?" Surprisingly, Meiya raised her hand in protest.
"Yes. Why don't I go with Shirogane? I have more stamina than you, and our physical strength isn't that different. You could support Tamase well, and I would be able to keep up with Shirogane without hindering him."
"Yes, but if you go with him he'll have to use any long range weapons you find, nullifying his CQC strength. I believe I should be the one accompanying him." Chizuru was being insistent on this. She still doesn't trust me apparently.
Meiya sent a look my way, as if to gauge my reaction. Chizuru also looked at me narrowing her eyes, I just shrugged.
"Sigh… If Shirogane doesn't mind, what about you Tamase?"
"I also don't mind. I think Mitsurugi-san is right though. They are the ones with the better stamina after all." Chizuru drops her shoulders, clearly dejected.
"Understood, then let's go with that. I will go with you and Mitsurugi with Shirogane. Is that alright?" We nodded at her.
"Where do we regroup?" Mikoto had one map on her as she looked around. "How about that hill over there? It seems to be the highest place of the island." Meiya and Chizuru looked at the map and then to our surroundings.
"Let's do that. We'll rendezvous atop the hill. Anything else anyone wants to say before we depart?" Chizuru looked around us. Nobody said a word.
Then each team took one map and one radio. Me, Chizuru and Mikoto are the ones who carry them.
"Squad! March on! We'll wait until the third day on the hill before departing for the evac point, so do not waste time. Let's clear this!"
"Roger!"
…
…This is harder than I thought it would be. Granted, I'm not having problems with it, but the amount of traps is just insane. Every five steps I have to either stop to cut a cable, trigger a net or take a turn to avoid a pitfall. These bastards went all out this time. Luckily for me, Meiya hasn't said anything and is focusing on clearing the traps to our right.
It feels as if we weren't moving at all, with how much we are stopping. Wait, I kind of can take care of these traps by myself right? So I should do what Mikoto did for me the first time around, I'll take the vanguard and dispatch most of the traps so that we can advance faster.
"Mitsurugi, I'll take the lead and dispatch as many traps as I can, we're not making progress if we keep stopping so much." Anger I can feel you. She stops and rearranges her hair.
"Are you saying I'm a bother to you, by any chance?"
"No, I said that I can clear the traps faster by myself, while you cover the flanks."
"But what if you fall in a pitfall? We would lose valuable time, and you could get hurt."
"I'm not so careless, and anyways you have my back, so if anything happens you can help me out. We're moving too slowly at this point." She seems to be considering it, arms folded. "The heat is just going to wears us down if we do this slowly, we gotta push forward without stopping every half a minute." She wipes the sweat of her forehead, her whole body is glistening with sweat right now, and I'm no different.
"Even so, there's the chance that either of us gets stuck in a trap, or hurt gravely. We should be careful, mind our pace, and advance together." No, we should… Whatever, I'll just do it and deal with it.
I turn my back and move forward faster, well not fast, but compared to slowly walking and stopping every minute anything seems faster. Oh, a net to the left. Well hidden too.
"Hey, come back here! Where do you think you're going?!"
"I told you already. Stick to the traps to my sides, I'll clear the front."
"You are no one to order me around, I did not agree to-"
Click
I react to the sound and throw Meiya to the ground as a barrage of bullets pass right above us. What the actual hell? They hid a machinegun with rubber bullets in the bushes, if that had hit us it would have hurt like hell! What are they thinking?!
"Shirogane… Could you… get off me already?" Huh?
I was on top of Meiya, like the time I… Ugh, F you brain. Why do have to remind me of that, now of all times?! It's not like I wanted to force myself onto her. I was just… Forget it. Let it go.
I move away, looking at our surroundings to make sure there's no more little cables hidden in the vicinity.
"…Thanks."
"Don't mention it. Be more careful, alright?" She nods, looking away.
We resume our march with me at the front, now without complains, and start moving a bit faster. Now we're making some progress!
…
Damn, the sun is going down already. I can't believe I'm making less progress than last time. Well, in my defense, there's ten times more traps and I'm traveling with Meiya, who is really slow when it comes to disabling them.
"Shirogane, should we set up camp? We won't be able to see anything once it gets dark."
"Hmm… Wait, this place is… It should be…"
"Shirogane? Are you… ignoring me, perhaps?"
I know it was close by, I recognize these trees. This is where we set up camp all the previous times, so the thing should… Oh, I think that's it. Behind some trees I could see the entrance that was built into the mountain. I feel a hand in my shoulders.
"Wha… Don't scare me like that, Mitsurugi." Why does she look so annoyed?
"Shirogane, I do not like to be ignored. I'd like it if we could… get along for the duration of the test. So, help me set up camp already before it gets dark."
"First, I wasn't ignoring you. Second, we're not setting up camp here." Now she's angry. She really likes to fold her arms when she gets upset for some reason.
"Why? It's getting dark, we won't be able to see anything if we continue to march. Explain yourself."
"The objective is right there, so we should get a bit closer today. That way we can destroy it at dawn when we wake up."
"What? Do not lie to me! There's no way-"
"Look over there." And her eyes go wide as her mouth hangs open.
"How did we make it to the target in a single day?!"
"You did count the amount of traps we dispatched, right? We walked without stopping all day long, save to eat and drink. It wouldn't surprise me if Tama's team is going to destroy their target tonight." You all gained a lot of stamina compared to the other loops. Even when we had to move slower this time we still made it in our first night.
"Be serious! There's no way… It has to be a diversion, how can you be so sure that is our target?"
"Look at the map, going by how much we walked it wouldn't be weird. C'mon, it's still far but we can close some distance before we lose all light."
"…You're serious? We made it… in one day?" Her tone relaxed as a smile made its way onto her face.
"See? So, come on, let's try to get a bit closer before it gets dark."
"Fine. Let's keep going."
"You're so much more nice to be around when you're not paranoid." I smile at Meiya, causing her to purse her lips as she puts her hands on her waist.
"Watch it, Shirogane. I do not like to be made fun of."
"C'mon, loosen up a little. We're making great time today. Stop being so down." I say as I resume my walk.
"…Fine. Lead the way, I'll follow you."
We walk for awhile more, for maybe two klicks, until I reach a place big enough to settle in. We still have a bit of light.
"Alright, let's set up camp here. I'll go deal with any traps nearby."
"Then I'll light the fire." Meiya says as she slows down, opening part of her beltkit.
All done here… Now, on our way forward for tomorrow… And that's it.
Meiya had hidden the fire very well from view, she was already covered by a sheet above a leaf bed.
I don't know how to make those, so I'll just sleep on the floor covered with the blanket I got with me.
"Shirogane, you stay on that side." Meiya told me as soon as I began taking my blanket out.
"Why? Shouldn't we try to be as close to the fire as possible?"
"Yes, but… You're male." She looks at me sideways, readiness to retaliate in her posture.
"I might be male but I'm not a pervert."
"So, you're not… going to try anything weird when the sun goes down, right?"
"…No, I'm not. I won't touch you, I promise." She seems to relax a bit. After giving me a nod, she opens her rations.
Way to bring down my mood, honey. Thanks for letting me know you see me as a creep. Sigh… I guess… the bridge is truly broken.
I too take out my night's ration. Let's just eat and… Those sons of a bitch! They gave me less than last time! Looking at Meiya, I see that she has even more than what I had in my previous loops. Who's the one in charge of making these things?!
I crunch into a small synth cereal bar that tastes like diluted toothpaste. The mark on the pack says E rank. The synth foods gets rated based on how much percentage it has of organic material and how 'good' said material is. It goes from A as the highest to E as the lowest, so I suppose this is only proteins and vitamins jammed together into some sort of… I was gonna say dough, but I have no idea how this is even made.
Instant ramen would beat the crap out of this thing. To think Mom said microwave food tasted bad, if she took a bite of this she would either faint or start making a ruckus about how could anyone consider this food.
…I wonder how are things over there. Did that world got rewinded too? Or is it still on the same spot in time? I look at the sky, the stars are really pretty. Sadly, they might all be overrun with BETA. Why is it that there's no BETA in my world? Did something happen to those silicon beings before they made them?
"Shirogane, are you not eating?" Meiya's words brought me back from dreamland. I had eaten only half of the rations.
"Yeah, I was just thinking."
"…About what? Are you worried about something?" It feels so weird hearing her voice without knives. It's really nice on my ears to hear her normal tone again.
"It's something personal, I was just lost in thought remembering something." She does not seem satisfied. Moving just a tiny bit closer, she again talks to me.
"Then, what are you be thinking about? We're in the middle of the CCSE, what personal matter could be troubling you? We need to be focused here." She sends a doubtful look at me, I avoid it as fast as I did to my homework back in school.
"No need to glare at me like that. I was just remembering my Mom." I keep eating the… grovel? This tastes like overboiled veggies that got then dried at the sun for a day.
"Your mother? Is she still in America?" A hint of disgust appeared on her tone.
I sigh, taking a moment to answer. What do I even tell her? Anything I say will make her think badly of me anyways… She seems determined to be hostile with me, shouldn't I just shut up?
…But if I do that then, we'll never talk again. We'll never… never again…
Shivering a bit as I bite onto the dough again, feeling as if cold hands were poking my sides, I look up, to not see her rejecting face anymore.
"…I don't know."
"What do you mean by that?"
"That I don't know where she is."
"…Is that so?
Please stop… Don't look at me like that… Just shut up, dammit. Don't… use her voice like that. Just leave me alone, please…
"How could it be that you know not of where your parents are?" Tilting her head back, her eyes narrow a bit.
"Sigh… Look, she was supposed to be here in Japan, but all my data about my time here was wiped from the databases, so I don't know where she is."
Frowning, I return a glare. Holding it, her own seems to ease up as she scans my face. Sigh… Why? Why do you… No, different people, different world. Don't forget that, just shut up and take it.
"My parents might be… dead for years for all I know." At least here that's the truth, and I don't know about the other world. If time reversed, they might still be alive. If not, then… that world is also in ruins until I get Sensei's help.
"…Forgive me for prying. I did it again." She gives a small bow.
"…Don't worry 'bout it."
…
"So… Your mother was supposed to be here?" She isn't letting that go, huh? Refusing her would only make things worse, let's just be honest.
"I thought so. I don't really know much about my life here, after all."
"Huh?! What do you mean?!" Why is she so startled?
"Didn't you read my reports already?"
"Yes, I did. But there was nothing about this. Are you telling me you do not know of your past?"
I mean, lying about it is pointless. If I'm ever asked I'll have to be honest, and frankly, it is almost as if I had amnesia this time, with how different this world is for whatever reason.
"Pretty much. I woke up one day in a hospital without remembering where I was, how I got there, or anything at all. I do remember our culture and traditions, how to write, parts of our history. But I don't really remember anything about my life here, not my family, friends, where I lived or studied. Since no one could find anyone related to me and I didn't have anywhere else to go I was offered to become a UN Cadet to have a place to live in, and that's how I joined the army. This was two years ago."
"You… You're basically all alone." Wow, thanks for the gut punches, honey. Keep 'em coming, who needs some peace of mind anyways?
"…Yeah, you could say that. I at least had my squad with me before but…" I bite into the cereal with too much force, causing part of it to fly away into the grass, as those days, those last days I was with them return to me. "…well, not anymore." At least Mikoto and Tama are still friendly with me and I have Kasumi.
"…Just like me."
"What was that?" She said something in such a small voice that I couldn't hear her at all.
"Nothing. So, does that mean that you do not remember all of our customs?" She moved her bangs out of her way, looking at me again. However, this time her eyes were like the ones of the past Meiyas, she put out the fire for some reason.
"Somewhat. I did have to read up on some stuff that I obviously had forgotten, but there might be some stuff that's common sense here that I forgot about." This also explains my usual weird words and lack of knowledge of this world's specific historic events. "That's all there is to it, for real." So please just let it go. It's cool, you don't like me. I get it and that's fine. Just… don't remind me of it every second.
"…I see." Closing her eyes, folding her arms, she seems placated with my answers.
Sigh… Thank God. I lean on a tree, gulping down what remained of my pitiful excuse of rations. I rub my arms, trying to drive away the coldness that surrounded me all of a sudden. At least we aren't arguing about anything anymo-
"Then, allow me to ask you." Goddammit, Meiya. Now what do you want? "Do you know of the color rankings of the nobility?"
More and more accusations, I guess. But… As I looked back at her, I didn't see the frown, the downwards brows, or even a speck of alertness in her posture. She was squarely gazing at me, awaiting my reply. She's… not upset or anything? She then began to tap her forearms with a finger, a sign she was growing impatient at my silence.
"Uuh… It was white for the vassals, yellow for the nobles, red for the special guardians, blue for the Regent Houses, and purple for the one that's the current Shogun, right?" She nods, too slowly as she still doesn't break her gaze from mine.
"Exactly. It also matches up with the dresses of the Royal Guard, where black is given to those of common descent that are inducted into it. So you did remember that. Then…" She pauses for a second as she shifted her hands around.
Don't just stop like that. I'm already aware of my breathing, feeling my heartbeats as I wait.
I don't know why, but she seems to be less hostile right now. And if she is… let's see if I can fix the bridge a little. But nothing good ever comes when she hesitates like that, so I don't know if I want to pursue this matter. Sigh… Whatever.
"…Come on, now. What is it?"
"Well, you do know that only the members of the Royal Guard are allowed to wield katanas in the Empire, right?" Wait, really? So that's why she thought I was on the Guard before.
"No, I didn't know that. Is that why you got so suspicious of me?"
"Yes. However, that is not all there is to it." She again stops and looks away. Stop it, nothing good ever comes when you of all people start hesitating like that.
"Mitsurugi you can't just stop there, you know?"
"Do you truly not know? Or are you testing me?" She again meets my gaze, her lips molded into a small circle, her voice again accusatory, and yet… no fire is in her eyes. She's doubting, but why?
"I'm not testing you. I am really curious about why the Guard didn't take offense with me having a sword, so please tell me about it. I think… we both need some answers, right?" Forcing a smile at her, she closes her eyes but nods all the same.
"Then, allow me to satiate my curiosity. What is the color of the hilt of our swords?"
"Blue? Wait… Are you saying it's related to the Regent Houses?" Meiya smiles proudly as she raises her chin.
"Exactly! Most members of the Royal Guard, or those related to the nobility, are given nameless katanas, with their hilt showing the color of their station. However, those who belong to one of the Regent Houses are given a copy of that House's katana. The Minaru Kamui we both have is one of such, given to only the members of one certain Royal House or their most trusted acquaintances. I myself am a servant of a House, and is the reason why I possess it. Each house has a special blade design unique to them. Holding one of them gives one recognition within the Empire. It's as if you were part of said house and gives you authority over their vassals. "
Wait… The sword we both have… Given to only the most trusted people… The royal house Meiya serves… Oh my God… Realizing what that meant sent a shiver down my spine, again feeling cold fingers tap my chest and sides as a face returned to my mind. The Minaru Kamui is… the blue blade of the Koubuin House.
"So… holding our swords is almost like being a noble?"
"Not almost, you are a noble. Someone who is trusted to such length to be given the house's blade, someone who is considered family despite not sharing a blood connection, someone who can stand behind the leader of the house with a weapon at the ready. To give that someone the proper status, that is the meaning of all blue katanas in the Empire." She finishes with a proud nod as she puffs her chest.
Maybe bringing the Minari Kamui wasn't a bad idea. It was a horrible one. How am I going to explain this?! No, forget that. What effects will this have if people learn about it? I'm sure that the number of people that have blue katanas is very low, and all leaders must know of them. If they learn that there's no one who could have given me the sword… They might assume I came with a fake one to take advantage of it. So that's why Meiya was so aggressive towards me that day.
"I didn't knew it was so important. No wonder you got so defensive when you found it." She looks down, clearly bothered by something.
"You were chosen by someone to take their place in service of a Regent House. They must have trusted you much to bestow such an honor to you. I know you possess the skill to be granted a blue blade, however…"
"You can't trust an American with such an important item, am I right?" She winces as she hears me, but nods at my words.
"Exactly. I… Forgive me for bringing this up now of all times, but I still hold doubts towards you. I suppose 1st Lt. Tsukuyomi knew of it, and that's why she called us fellows. But you weren't aware of this. Now that you know, allow me to ask you. Shirogane, what will you do with your blade?"
I didn't expect this. I should have known the sword was related to the Koubuin House. And I have a tickling clock over my head to deal with this issue. I know that she's worried about Yuuhi. She loved her sister a lot, and I know that hasn't changed in this world. Anyone who holds that blade could do some serious damage to the Empire now that she's the Shogun, most people in the Imperial Palace are her vassals. It may even be possible to request an audience with her and kill her during it. Honestly, this is such a stupid method to give 'status' to someone. It's actually surprising this hasn't been exploited in the past. So she will tell Tsukuyomi-san of this if I refuse to return it, and that will be my downfall.
If I'm right about this… having a 'fake' sword of the Shogun's house might be one of the worse crimes here, even worse than treason. It could be seen as an offense against the Empire's order, or the Shogun's integrity. I'm so dead, aren't I?
Can I hide somewhere on the base and fight with my voice distorted like during Niigata? I mean, Sensei might figure something out but that will only give her more trouble. We can't afford to damage our relations with the Empire. If this info gets out, I'm sure Sagiri could use it to spark a conflict.
"The UN had a sword from the House of the Shogun illegally! They were plotting against us!" I can already hear him saying that, this could very well lead to an earlier coup. If Sensei loses the support from the Guard… No, if the anyone from the Empire goes against the UN we can kiss Alt. IV goodbye, even if Yuuhi still supports Sensei. No way in hell that mess won't end in flames in this world.
Unless… I don't think apologizing will cut it, I don't think handing it over would solve this. But… I did this to myself, and since Sensei didn't react at all to the sword when I showed it to her after our talk, this might be a well kept secret of the Shogunate. I gotta deal with this myself, I have to be thankful I learned of this now before it's too late.
"…I think I understand how much damage one could do with it… But still, I'd like to deal with it myself." Reaching out to Tsukuyomi-san on my own is better than having Meiya take me to her, as I hope it'll show her I truly want no problems.
"Why?" Her tone changed, her eyes filled with doubt. Shit, this is what I'm trying to prevent.
"Well, I'm the owner of the sword. Whether I'm recognized or not, it's my responsibility to deal with it."
"Then why not hand it over before more misunderstandings take place?"
"That's what I was thinking about. I'll go talk alone with 1st Lt. Tsukuyomi about this." Meiya furrows her brows again. Now what?
"Why do you wish to go alone? I could aid you in your apology."
"With all you've told me, I think it's best for me to deal with this alone." And I don't want you to learn that… I'm a faker. If she does, any and all feeble hopes of getting along I have will end up in ashes.
"You sound as if you believed that you were going to be punished. Why would you think that?" Her tone and glare, her tightened folding arms, all of her was once more blazing at me. I can only run away and look down, emptiness filling my insides.
"…Well, if I'm not seen as a legitimate owner I might get sent to prison or worse. And I don't know who I was here, what if I end up being a traitor or an exile?" Her accusing doubt is replaced by seriousness, she slowly strokes her bangs as she thinks.
"Hmm… You're right, that is also a possibility. But, well, you will return it, then?"
"No need to look at me like that. I don't want to cause trouble, if me having this blade is a problem, then I have to return it, that's all. I really don't want to part ways with it, but I can't let it be used to spark a conflict. I can't allow the relation of the UN with the Empire be damaged because of me."
"You… You're more serious than I thought you would be about this."
"That was unnecessarily rude. What is it with you now?" I glare at her, mustering some anger to stop these cold, void waters that seeped into my lungs, making every breath hurt the more I look at her, the more those blue eyes creak open the dam of those awful accidents and in they flow, in they come with all the debris and shit mixed in the stream, filling the cold lakes in me.
Seeming to have flinched a bit, she coughs and sends a hand to the air intakes before returning my gaze again, this time having put out the fire once more.
"My apologies, I meant no offense. I didn't think you would… feel so strongly about this matter, since you lived in America for two years and lost most of your memories."
"Hey, I'm still Japanese. I may not be your fellow, but that doesn't mean I'm your enemy." Looking down, I hunch over and massage my shoulders.
I really would like to avoid a fight with Yuuhi. But I doubt the amnesia card will work, even less now that I have to give them the blade. Even if he was a 1st Lt. at such a young age, I doubt he would be related to the Shogun's House, and in the off chance he was for some reason I don't think he would have been given a Minaru Kamui. And when that happens… there won't be much I can do to salvage this mess. Sensei won't let my presence ruin her plans, who knows what she'll do in front of that threat.
…All I know is, if I don't handle this well they'll definitely ask for my head, or for me to be detained at the least. Sigh… Just what can I do to stop all this shit?
"Forgive me for doubting you." Back in the island, she was giving me a faint bow. "Well… You do not seem to be lying, but even so, allow me to accompany you when you go return it." I know that gaze, she isn't taking a no for an answer.
"Fine, if it makes you believe me. You can come with me, I guess." She smiles faintly at my answer.
"Thanks for agreeing to that. Even so, I wonder why they didn't reach out to you to explain this when you arrived here. Maybe they thought you already knew?"
"Your guess is as good as mine, honestly." I shrug, having finished my rations I lay on the ground looking at the stars, not wanting to speak with her anymore.
Sigh… What can I do? Apologize for not knowing it was a fake blade? No, I mean, it isn't a fake one. What will they think when they see it? And also, I was supposed to be a Royal Guard here. How will Sensei's cover work here? Will they believe I somehow survived without them knowing? If they don't…
…shouldn't I just restart all of this?
No, if I let this stand then, won't this data follow me later? But then, what can I do to stop this whole mess?
"Say Shirogane." She speaks up in a slow tone, laying down on her leaf bed. "What if… What if, when you go return the Minaru Kamui, you are asked whether or not you wish to serve the House it belongs to?"
"No way in hell that'll happen."
"Why do you say that?"
Because they know I'm not 'him', therefore I'm a 'faker' passing as a member of the Guard. And now I have a 'fake' blade of the Shogun's house. Sigh… This is one big, effing mess.
"You really think they would welcome someone like me on the Guard?"
"…I think they would, going by how harshly I was reprimanded the other day."
"The other day? Oh right. Did they got you in the end?" She nods slowly.
"They told me to mind my words with you, to not approach you if you didn't talk to me."
I'm sure that's because they want to protect you, but they can't actually kill me for now. If Tsukuyomi-san doesn't want Meiya to involve herself with me, when she didn't do this in all my other loops, it means she sees me as a threat. And I can already guess how she'll react once I show her the blade, then. Sigh…
"…Maybe they were worried about you being close to an American. Can't trust someone like me, after all." I spit it out, not wanting to hold this shit in anymore.
"Do not be foolish! They… Well, doesn't matter now. Let's leave this talk for when we go back to the base. So, I'll take the first watch. You stay on that side, if you cross-"
"Yeah, I know. I won't put a finger on you, don't worry." She relaxes a bit, which drives another hit to my stomach. She was still doubting me.
"So long as we're clear on that. At what hour should we go towards our target?"
"I dunno. As soon as it starts to light up? We do need to do it early."
"Fine. Let's put the fire out, let's take shifts of three hours. Is that alright?"
"Yeah, sounds good."
I wrap the blanket over me, as I put on the little spray to ward off the bugs and stuff. I lay looking at the stars again. A fine first day, I guess.
I can't believe this. Thank God she mentioned this, otherwise things would have gotten ugly when this came to light. I can only hope the Empire is willing to listen instead of asking for my head immediately.
…Yawn, I'm beat though. I didn't expect so many traps today. That machinegun was totally overkill, dude. Let's hope we don't find any more of those. I curl to a side and close my eyes.
Around 5 AM.
"Shirogane… Shirogane!" Ugh… Shut up, Meiya. I don't wanna go to school today. "Shirogane, the sky is clearing already. We'll lose our window to gain points. Mmgh, give me that blanket!"
Why did she took my sheets off? She shouldn't copy Sumika in this… What is this feeling? Dirt? Why am I…
I open my eyes and find myself in the middle of a jungle, Meiya was staring at me as she smiled but with one of her brows twitching.
"Are we awake now, Shirogane?" A rather gentle tone with a wide smile. But behind it, a really angry pulse was apparent.
"Ugh… Yeah."
"What is it? Did you sleep in a bad position?"
"No… I had… a dream of my family."
"Eh? Oh, I see. Did you remember anything?"
"No, it was just… an everyday scenery, somewhat."
I had a dream about my world. It wasn't anything out of the ordinary, just one of those days where those two would fight over whose lunch I would eat. Heh, I didn't knew how happy I was back then. Compared to her, you…
"Hmm? Is there something on my face?"
I never noticed it, but my world's Meiya had a much more gentle and sweet gaze than this one. Well, considering the differences it's not weird. I guess… I'll never see that sweet gaze again.
"Sigh… Nothing. Let's eat our morning rations."
I again have less than what I should in my pack. One day I'm going to have that feast she made me for the food competition, or that super beef bowl I ordered at the cruise. Yeah man, how nice that one was. Best beef bowl anyone could ever eat.
"Why are you smiling in such a way?" She stared at me, tilting her head a bit and raising a brow.
"I'm just eating. What? I can't smile every now and then?"
"But… You're smiling from ear to ear while eating this tasteless food. What could you possibly be happy about?" She looks genuinely puzzled.
"I'm just thinking that someday I'll have the same food I had with my loved ones instead of this. What? There's no one you'd like to share a dinner with?" She nods slowly, understanding the reason behind my smile. Thanks God she isn't fighting me on this one.
We finish our food and, after getting our bearings in order, make our way to the target. Or so I'd say if this place weren't littered with traps. Thankfully we came here really early, otherwise we might have ended up arriving past noon at the cave. I'm so done with the pitfalls, and the nets, and the random guns. Luckily there's no more machineguns hidden anywhere near.
"So this is the place?" Meiya takes a good look at the hangar from afar.
"Looks like it. I'll check for traps on the right side, can you cover the left one?"
"Leave it to me."
There were some traps that would have scattered little spikes all over but they were obvious to spot. Nothing else here.
"There's nothing on this side, Shirogane."
"Alright, let's move into the hangar. I'll check the right."
"Roger."
No traps here. But what is here is the fuel. Come to papa, oily friend. With this we can use the boat! Like last time when…
Huh? Did we… No, we didn't. But then… Huh? What…
"Shirogane, I found a tarp here!"
"…Oh, cool. There's some barrels with fuel here."
"Fuel?" Meiya gets to my position, her mouth widens as she sees the machine that's near. "Oho, a Humvee? Did you check it?"
"It doesn't have its engine, so it's useless to us." I did check, just in case. But no dice.
"Then, nothing else? It is truly a shame we didn't find a clue about the evac point."
"Yeah, let's make a fuse and blow this place up."
"Would you happen to know how to do so? I am… not particularly proficient on the manual endeavors."
…You don't know how nice it is to see that bashful side of yours again. Sigh… I sound like my Dad, wistfully reminiscing of old things.
"Leave it to me. I'll get it done."
There was nothing new in here. Now, there should be a box with some stuff that I can use to make the fuse right around here in one of these lockers… Oh, here it is. Now let's get this… Huh?
Inside the box there was a paper along the rest of the things. 'After ABC comes W' was written in it. What the hell?
"Hey, Mitsurugi! I found something!"
"What is it?" She came jogging to me. I hand her the paper I found in the box. "After ABC comes W? What does this mean?"
"Maybe it's talking about the targets? Something that comes after the targets, perhaps?"
"So it's a hint of what we have to do after? We should take it with us, the others may have found something similar."
This is a new one. Who knows what this is about? Well, no point in worrying about it. Let's make the fuse.