Chapter 44: Underlying Shadows
November 30th. 07:44 PM.
(PX.)
[Takeru]
The base had gone back to normal, some more soldiers doing patrols outside as the sole difference. While some whispers filled the busy hallways, no one really knew what had happened in detail. And as the afterglow faded into dusk, the gazes of many curious onlookers rested on our shoulders since they had heard Sensei's call for us during the alarm.
Luckily enough, we were given the rest of the day free while the other soldiers had to remain on standby, and due to Sensei's permission I also was allowed to join in the PX, as an extraordinary exception due to the events that transpired.
We were all sitting on our usual table, us six being the only ones on the PX save for the kitchen staff that was prepping up the dinner for the soon-to-come horde of famished soldiers. Kyozuka-san brought dinner for the girls, giving them a smile and making chitchat about their trainings. Sadly, I had to make due with what I had in the paper bag, because obviously all I got from her was a scowl as if she were smelling rotten food. Sigh…
Tama coughed after we ate for a while, hesitating on taking her eyes off her plate. She said that she wanted to explain her situation to us, and is why we made sure to come here now that no one else is in the PX. Resting her chopsticks on the rim of her tray, she finally looks up.
"Um… So, about me and my family. You all know how the ranks work, right? Well, the Tamase family was always one linked to archery. We had our own dojo and all back in Osaka. We were of Tozama rank, and every generation we had to undergo a trial to keep our status. I, well, never had the chance to take part in that test."
We all waited for her to gather her thoughts, and after a short while she spoke up again.
"My family was close to the Koubuin House, due to our same values about how one should fight and maintain the lineage's honor. Even when guns became the norm, archery was preserved as a symbol of our traditions and as such my family was one of the few that was directly assigned under the command of the Koubuin family, despite being of Tozama rank, and it's why we eventually were given a dojo in the first place. I heard that was because my grandfather reached the highest honor rank in archery in the whole Empire."
The rest's eyes pop up like a full balloon, in whatever comes after shocked. I remember her dad was in the second of those ranks back in my world, so maybe that's also the same here.
"So due to that honor, we were placed under their orders. I suppose we were kinda like an anomaly, I think?" She tilts her head, looking at Meiya for confirmation.
"Well, that is not inaccurate." She says, nodding. "While it isn't common, it also is not odd for either Tozamas or inductees to be appointed under the direct command of a Regent." More gazes of surprise go to Tama, who loses her sight in her plate's depths despite it being mostly empty.
"Is that so? Meiya-san, is that something weird in the hierarchy?" Mikoto tilts her head, scratching a cheek.
"No, not in the slightest. However, I was referring to the placement of the individual who represents a House. While all those who belong to a fellowship are under the command of one of the Regents, there are those who are appointed to serve under the Head's direct orders, either in the Main House or wherever they are handpicked to work in. Or at the very least, that's how it used to be before the invasion." Deflating much, she sighs. "Such an honor is a rare one, only given to trustworthy fellows. Few are the Tozamas, and even less the inductees, that are given this treatment by a Regent. Therefore, it isn't odd at all, it is merely an uncommon practice since few are those who are bestowed said privilege."
"So what it means is that Tama's family was seen as very important fellows by the Koubuins, to the point of taking orders directly from the leader?" Meiya nods to my words, Tama also does as she looks down while scratching her head.
"Yes, it used to be like that, I think." Still unable to smile as usual, Tama keeps looking down. "When I was little, there were times when I accompanied my parents to pay a visit to the Koubuin Main House. But, for some reason, we were looked at very badly by some of the other servants. Papa was never a warrior, he always preferred to settle things with words, so I could hear some people calling him a coward behind our backs." Tama's voice creaked as she remembered that, her gaze trailed off the table, her figure clearly distraught with the memory she had recalled.
"…Such improper behavior. Tamase, you shouldn't feel ashamed of your origins. Be it by the sword or the pen, I am convinced your Father certainly worked much for our nation." Meiya firmly stared at Tama, who finally gave us a small smile and nodded.
"Well, things weren't so good with the last Head of the Koubuin House, since he wanted to be part of the vanguard in the war against the BETA, from what I heard from Papa. So when he tried to negotiate peacefully, it seems they argued about it. When…" Closing her eyes, taking a deep breath, turbulence comes to her breathing. "…the capital was attacked by terrorists on the 97, we had just gone to visit them and…"
Tama paused for a while, breathing deep through her nose as she closed her eyes. Squinting my eyes, felt as if I had been shot in the gut to see her wringing her hands so tightly.
"…W-Well, Papa got into an argument with the Head, and he ended up taking me back home in a hurry."
She shot out in a hurry, eyes tightly closed. She's obviously keeping stuff in, but to have her this hurt… Just what the hell happened to her then? No, wait…
Their parents used to always go together to the Koubuin House… And there was a terrorist attack… She said only her dad took her back home… And she said… that the flowers… reminded her of…
…
Oh God…
The rest also grimaced, unable to lift a word, sharing the silence as we waited for her to continue or call it quits.
"…I learned later that he resigned his title and decided to go work for the UN and the Parliament." Catching back her regular breathing, she finally looked up.
"Huh? But why would he… I mean…" Chizuru hugged herself with one hand as she looked at Tama.
"After that… Most of our fellows started calling us traitors, saying that we should be exiled… Since then, I… Well, many of my friends started shunning me out, and the ones who remained close were also secluded during school." Looking at the girls in the eye, her tone still deflated, the cracks beginning to widen. "That's why I don't like seeing you fight, why I always try to have us all get along. I'm used to being ignored by now, and I know I'm not that smart either, that's why I always do my best and try to stay positive. Because that's… that's all I'm good for."
Kei got closer and, hiding how tightly she was biting her lips a second ago, pet her head, causing Tama to look up. Her quivering eyes soon relax as she sees us smiling at her.
"That ain't true. You're a great squadmate." To say she flinched or twitched at Kei's word would be like comparing a hill with Mt. Fuji, tightening her lips as she tried, pointlessly at that, to prevent a few runaway tears to come out.
"Tamase, you're no burden." Chizuru spoke softly, looking tenderly at her. "And nobody here thinks you're a traitor, your Father is still working for the good of the Empire, just as we're doing now." I mean, she may relate to it after what she went through, since she's still trying to do her part while being on the UN, and while her Father is the Prime Minister.
"Really? You don't think I'm… dead weight? That I'm in the way?" Her downcast eyes looked at us, ready to recoil off a wall. All of us smiled at her again, making a sliver of tears appear.
"Miki-san, you're really good for so many more things you don't even notice! I mean, outside of your gun skills, you're always the one who notices when we forget something in the changing room or when we're moving wrong in the sim." Mikoto joined her hands and did little jumps in her seat, which made Tama laugh a bit.
"Yoroi speaks the truth." Meiya nodded to Mikoto, then to Tama. "Your attention to those little details is a most remarkable trait. And your positivity has always been an invaluable asset, you're the one who always keeps the peace between Sakaki and Ayamine, after all."
"Yup, without you these two would be at each other's throat all the time." Kei and Chizuru both narrow their eyes at me in perfect synchrony.
"That's not true…" Tama looked down again. And as if in sync…
"Pure slander."
"I wouldn't go causing us problems so often. While it's true that Tamase helps in keeping Ayamine in check, I am not so childish to-"
"Sassaki."
"What was that?! I'm just trying to-"
"See? So quick to anger." Kei smirks at her, Tama and Mikoto again stare at them worriedly, Meiya sighs. So harshly thoughtful as always.
"Grr… Why, you…"
"Please do not start again." Chizuru chills down at Meiya's words. "Tamase, none of us see you as a burden. You're our precious comrade, so please do not be so distraught."
"Good girl, you're really brave." Kei started petting her again, but more softly this time.
"I am glad you think me trustworthy enough to tell me of this, and as the rest, I apologize for the times where I talked down to you." Tapping her glasses, she then also gives Tama a bow. "Let's keep doing our best together from now on, Tamase." Both nod at each other, this time throwing Tama's stiffness far beyond the horizon.
"Man, I… I didn't knew you went through so much on your own. You should be more proud of yourself, Tama. It takes a lot of guts to turn your back and do what you think is right in a situation like that." I smile at her, but she drops her gaze again.
"I didn't really have a choice. I mean, not matter what I did everyone kept treating me like an outsider and pushing me away." Meiya and Chizuru's eyes tense up, they can't meet Tama's gaze.
Holding part of their uniforms roughly, moving their closed lips around. Considering how they acted towards me and how Tama tried to defend me from time to time… Maybe they said something hurtful to her?
"But you're with us now." Mikoto beamed again as she dove into her eyes. "So, uh, I have a completely new image of you now, Miki-san. Not just because of the shot with the cannon, but… I agree with Takeru, you were really brave. Sorry, for those times I ignored you."
"N-No, don't apologize, please!" As sweet as usual, despite everything.
"I would have to agree. You should not feel shame, Tamase. Your daily displays are proof enough of the type of person you are, and I am grateful to have a squadmate such as you with me." Meiya folded her arms, smiling brightly at Tama. Coming from her, after what Tama told us, has to hit differently.
"No, I'm just doing my best… I will try to not disappoint you." As if she were being scolded, she looked down as she grabbed her ribbon and slowly pulled it from side to side.
"You never did, Tama." She twitches as she hears me, again looking up. I give her a thumbs up, as does Kei, and she nods back, this time clearly quivering.
"Thank you… Really… I'll do my best to not drag you down anymore." She quivered a little, but she rubbed her eyes and then returned a bright gaze to us. "Well, that's the reason why I joined the UN, and why I always tried so hard to keep the peace. I didn't feel welcome where I was, that trying to reclaim my title would be the same as leaving Papa alone, and anyways most people there hated me. So I decided that I would try to help him, even if I couldn't do much. I'm sure he was just trying to see whether I was telling the truth on my letters with his cheerful act today. I'm sorry, he didn't mean any of the bad things he said about you all." And again, she gives us a deep bow.
"Don't worry, Miki-san. It's nothing, he even saw through our facade." Placing a hand on her shoulder, Mikoto smiled back at Tama.
"And after what you told us, I can understand why he'd choose to go along our play." Drawing circles on the air, she sighs. "It's okay, water under the bridge." Tama sighs, smiling a bit. "But I have to ask, if he was just testing if you truly were pleased in the squad, what did you actually write in the letters?"
"Eh?" Oh God, she's tilted again. "Awawa… S-Sorry, I can't tell you!"
"But… Just what did you even-"
"Sakaki-kun, don't make trouble for the Squad Leader." Smirking much, Kei chuckles as Chizuru groans at her.
"I agree, let us simply leave this behind." Meiya nods, Tama sighs. "However, I cannot deny I am curious as to why he said nothing about my person."
"He was afraid you'd cut him in half, Meiya."
"Wh- I-I would do no such thing!" Purple fire? Check. Folded arms? Check. Slight pout? Check. We've got bingo.
"Haha, but Meiya-san does look really scary from time to time." Mikoto giggles, Meiya's glare intensifies on me.
"That is not true."
"Awawa… Sorry, but I really can't tell you. It's too embarrassing…"
"Got it. No more questions." Kei again pats her head, the rest of us nod at her, and Tama finally sighs, coming back to her usual smile.
"Well, in any case, we are more than happy to have you onboard, Tamase." Tapping her glasses, crossing her arms, she gives Tama another nod. "Let's do our best effort to earn our commission, all together from now on."
"Yes, let's! Thank you all, for hearing me out."
"What are you saying, Miki-san? That's what comrades are for, we rely on each other when things get tough. And you saved the base, we should be thanking you."
"Saving the base… Awawawa…."
"And here we go again." Can't help but to chuckle at her usual nervousness.
"I always knew you were great." Kei gives her a nod with a thumbs up, she mumbles a thank as she fidgets.
"Indeed. I relish the challenge of facing such a fierce opponent from now on." Meiya's wide smile melted away Tama's stiffness as she also returned to her usual happy look. "It is an honor to be able to spar against someone as skilled as you, Tamase." And now she made Tama blush.
"And it isn't as if we didn't have a weirdo in the team. At least someone can shoot down Takeru now."
"Watch it, Mikoto. I won't cover you next time we fight." I fake a pout and look away. Everybody starts to laugh, except Kei who simply smiled faintly.
"Well, it will truly be a challenge to face you from now on." Chizuru says, before giving Tama another bow. "And I promise to make an effort as a leader, to not pressure you as I did before the CCSE, or as I've been doing with my fights with Ayamine."
"No, don't apologize. I didn't… I'm not holding that against you, Sakaki-san. So let's leave that behind, and start looking forward as a team, yes?" She truly is what brings this squad together when things go south. Her cheerful and honest smile melts the ice that had made its way into the other three's eyes, leaving nothing but a warm light within.
"That's right. In the end, Kei-san protected us from the soldiers, and you two helped Takeru finish the CCSE. And you've been trying to change your attitude, I can see you three are trying your best to mend that stuff. So no more bringing that up!" Mikoto points a finger at them and they let out a little chuckle, as me and Tama also do.
It's truly a blessing… to have mended the bridge. It truly is nice… just to sit with you, laughing at the most little things. Sighing away, feeling as if I had unloaded a backpack full of jagged rocks piking at me, I took in the view of these passing seconds, of all of us just laughing in the PX.
"Well, if we can leave that behind us, then let's do so. So don't be afraid of speaking up when you feel you have to." Tama gives a nod to Chizuru, leaving the traces of shadow behind.
"Thank you, everybody. Let's do our best in the mock battles, and let's get commissioned as fast as possible. As a team." Tama said with small flames in her eyes. Shame she doesn't know the 'FWOOOH!' here, she could use a battle cry to pump herself up.
"Yeah!" Mikoto raised her hand and, after a second of hesitation on Tama's side, both did a high five. Kei smiled at them, while the other two drank some water.
"Well guys, I can't really stay here, so I'm going back to my cell. Good night." I stand and wave at them, taking the paper bag to my pockets.
"Ah! Shirogane-san!"
"Hm? What's up, Tama?" Her eyes swayed away and without looking at me she again tugged at her ribbon.
"F-Forgive me for hitting and screaming at you. You were just trying to cheer me up and I… I…"
"It's cool, I was kinda pushy back there. I'm the one that should apologize." Tama looks at me and gives me a smile. Glad to see she didn't got all negative with how I pushed her. I mean, with all the shit she's gone through I'm lucky she doesn't hate my guts. You're too sweet to be true, Tama.
"Takeru, what did you do?" Meiya looked at me, scanning my face real slow.
"Nothing much, I was just being my usual obnoxious self." I shrug but Tama jumps in, protesting against my words.
"That's not true. He was just trying to get me out of myself. I ended up screaming at him when he only was trying to give me courage." She looks down as some clouds dull the sunshine of her eyes.
"Don't be so down. You ended up rising up on your own, that's what matters. You saved us today Tama, there's nothing to forgive. So stop being so mopey and give us a smile!"
"Huh, so Shirogane-kun can be kind when he wants to." Chizuru gestured towards me, as if she had seen some surreal thing happen in front of her.
"Hey!"
"The end is near." Kei, you're lucky you're so endearing.
"It is a relief to hear you can be considerate and tactful, Takeru." Meiya regains her smile, burying the premature signs of doubts.
"You're making it sound as if you thought I was some kind of brute." I give her a side glace, she then folds her arms and nods.
"Well, you always were a great hurdle to overcome. And I myself saw firsthand your resolve, so I know how determined you are. It is merely surprising to see that you could also aid Tamase back then, considering the pressure she must have felt. To see you are capable of such tactfulness is a welcome surprise." Giving me a small smile, I can't help but to narrow my eyes at her.
"Yes, that's true. He was truly formidable yesterday morning, and didn't mince words with us when he snapped." Again, she traces circles in the air.
"Monster-kun ripped us a new ear, such a savage." Kei then gives me a side glance, smirking. I know you want to cheer Tama up, but don't use me as fodder, dammit.
"Awawa… Don't say that! Shirogane-san has always been helping us out. And back then he didn't get angry, and he remained calm, a-and… and he kept encouraging me. Don't say bad things about him, please. Not even as a joke." Tama's soft and polite, but firm, tone made the other three drop their teasing smiles.
"Yeah, Takeru has always been giving us advice, hasn't he?" Mikoto nods, drinking some water. "Talking about the training and what's to come, how are we gonna fight in our mock battles? I mean, now we have two aces to look out for."
"How? The Instructor is the one that will decide that." Chizuru replied as she started to eat.
"But what if she puts us against both Takeru and Miki-san?" She asks, Tama scratches her head, not used to the praise, and the others got tilted hard.
"…We're dead, plain and simple." Kei answers, a solemn tone as passed her thumb across her neck.
"C-Come on, I'm not that good…" Poking at her plate, she blushes again.
"I for one hope for a chance to spar against you, Takeru. And if it also places me against Tamase, I couldn't possibly ask for better challenge." Meiya says with glee. Look at you, you think you can beat me. How cute.
"Someone wants to keep losing, it seems." I return a tease and she purses her lips at me.
"I will not lose! I'll make you kiss the ground this time." More of those determined, blazing purple embers appeared in those eyes of hers, the fire that I'm got used to seeing here. But now, they're no longer hateful. None of their eyes are.
"We'll see. I gotta go, later guys." Waving at them, they return it as I leave.
Finally… Finally, we're back as it always should have been. It took a lot… but now we're back to being a cohesive team, in the making at least.
It's nice to see that Tama got out of that gloom mood she was in, despite all the shit she had to go through. Makes me feel like shit for never trying to have a serious talk with her about family when we were together… But I can start by being more supportive from now on.
And it's also nice to see that we've left behind those tense days. Hopefully we can keep the peace for a little while longer. Now… for that to happen… I gotta keep Yuuhi at bay…
"Cadet Shirogane."
"Oh?" 2nd Lt. Pyatkh called out, we shared a salute as I stopped. "Good evening. What is it, 2nd Lieutenant?"
"The XO is calling for you, to the usual office."
"Understood, I've received my orders." Again saluting each other, I then turn and keep going to the stairs, but now directing myself to the elevator.
Same Day. An hour or so ago.
(Yuuko's Office.)
[Yuuko]
"Then, you have been making certain progress?" The Undersecretary asked, reading the bare bones report I cooked up for him.
"Indeed. So tell the Security Council Alt. IV is progressing at fine speed."
"Is the petition for a mission to Sadogashima so soon… well…" Choosing to instead drink some more coffee, I spin on my chair as I chuckle.
"Yes, it's very much serious. I also would like to have a talk with the UN's HC and our patrons of the Empire soon about my… developments in the recent months. Could you perhaps arrange the meeting?"
"Of course, I'm sure it won't take long, what with how curious they are growing about what's brewing here. However… There is one matter I must inquire about." Resting his cup on the table, tracing his mustache with a finger, his eyes took aim at mine. "Do you have any intel regarding the matter of the aggressors sent to the CCSE?"
"No, I haven't been able to find much from here." Not anything I'd like to share with the UN, in any case. "Were the soldiers released as per the agreement?"
"Sigh… Sadly, yes. Everything will be kept under wraps in the end. However, many are wondering why you'd… agree to pay for the treatment of the soldiers."
"Besides the fact that the UN needs the matter from remaining secret? After all, the HC was the one who insisted on sending the aggressors. I don't recall having much veto power regarding who was sent…" He twitches, suddenly chuckling.
"No, I know that well. However, well, they don't buy you're oblivious to what transpired. I mean, I am going to keep quiet about it, and yet you were completely prepared for this little accident."
"Well, what can I say? Things are surely going to become more interesting in the short term for us." Grinning much as I spin, he again chuckles.
"Haha, as expected of someone like you. Ah, well, I'll try to keep them at bay, however…" Again furrowing his brows, he leaned forward, covering his mouth. "Do you believe there are sleeper agents of that faction in this base?"
"No, at all. I merely received a… tip, let's call it, from a trustworthy source. That's why I was well prepared for this. And in any case, I am sure you also were aware of what could happen during this visit."
"Well…" Going back, he straightens his suit. "What can I say? The rumors have been brewing, and as impartial as I have to be, I am a father as well. Let's just say I decided to take a bet when seeing the hasty manner in which this visit was requested."
"I see… I suppose you were pleased with it?" Leaning on one of my palms, he again chuckles.
"More than pleased." Standing up, this time his eyes without any of the hesitation of our prior meetings, he offers me handshake. "Even if some will be displeased at the news, I shall arrange the meetings. Best of luck Professor, and keep up your guard."
"I will, be assured. Is there anything you think is dire enough to tell me in advance?"
"Well… I'm sure you must have heard of that radical group…" Such a grimace, far more biased than it should be. "Hopefully you manage to deliver results before the tensions escalate further."
"…That I will do. I'll be looking forward to the meeting." Smirking back at him, ending our handshake, he gives me one last bow before leaving, Pyatkh already waiting outside the room to guide him to his ride.
And once the door is locked, I crash onto my seat. Sigh… I guess that warning is what Shirogane told me about, the third accident that has to be prevented no matter what. Still, I'm glad this went well enough. Not only I gained data on the OTH, the Undersecretary is also now clearly on my side as well. Those lobbying bastards will have to swallow their buckets of cash, soon they'll be jobless.
Beginning to spin slowly, resting my head on the seat, my eyelids begin to close as I look up.
Sigh… Everything is under control… Another accident prevented… The meetings are going to also go well with… these developments. The request for a mission to Sadogashima… should be a good enough sign.
My elbows lodging themselves on my sides, the armrest welcoming my arms dock in, the spinning and spinning continues. With eyes closed I sigh, simply enjoying the motion.
The cadets will also probably join the Valkyries… The 00 Unit's new protocol is progressing… just fine… The XM3 is ready for mass production… And the memories of…
Drowning a yawn, rubbing my eyes, resting my chin on my shoulder, I continue spinning for a moment. Until my last trail of thought made my eyes shoot wide open.
"Wait, I didn't read… the last report… Ah… Ah… Yaaaawn…"
All the tension in me comes crumbling all at once, a few tears on my eyes as I stretch my back, hearing something crack. My legs feeling numb, a jolt comes through my ankles as I moved them.
"Ugh… When was… the last time I slept, again? Yawn… Dammit. Hmm?" I look at my watch, for some reason it seems half an hour passed already.
Did I… almost pass out? Urgh… I can't… I have to…
Thundering away from my seat, leaning on my desk until my legs rebooted, I then go up to the coffee machine and pour more into my cup, to the brim. Two fingers run a loop on my forehead, yet no matter how slowly I try to drink, a sudden hoarseness is left imprinted on my throat.
I cough a bit, rubbing it, and yet nothing can seem to ease this heaviness. Another yawn tears my mouth wide open against my wishes, my head lowers and lowers.
"No… It's too early to go to sleep. There's some… Ahem… Quite some matters left unattended." Breathing into the smell of the coffee, pinching the bridge of my nose, whatever was clogging me is sent back in for now.
Sitting again, opening my mail, it would seem the orders I sent are already taken care of. The Valkyries reported that no one suspicious was nearby, nothing happened during the visits besides from the HSST, the customary bureaucratic mails from the retinue are also flooding my inbox, and since nothing has come to my attention I suppose everything is as always.
Sigh… Good enough. Now, Motoko-nee seemed to have done some more tests today… And she believes the hardware is as ready as it'll ever be. I suppose it's time for the final trial run… Inhaling sharply as the image of my prior failures comes back up, I send word to her to ready the prototypes for a final test tomorrow.
I'll delegate to the CO the arrangement of the patrols and whatnot, and the other officials can handle the bureaucrats and their mutual sharing of empty pleasantries. I should also send word to Radhabinod regarding the mission for Sadogashima, so that he can review it and offer his hindsight. I wonder if I should speak with Shirogane about it… In time, I don't want to craft a perfect plan only to garner any unwanted attention.
Speaking of… Now that everything else is over and done with… What hour is it now? Around 7:40? He should have come already to my presence, what on Earth is he doing? No… What if he came while I was asleep?
Checking the cameras on my laptop's screen, he isn't with Yashiro. Actually, she also isn't in the cylinder's room or in our work aisle, and he isn't there either. Where is Shirogane now? Clicking to switch the view, a brow began to arch as I couldn't find him, my clicks began to lose delay between each of them.
Not in the hallway or anywhere in this floor, not in the elevator, neither on his cell or on the way to it… Where the hell are you?! He couldn't have- Oh, he's in the PX. I suppose… I could let him eat in peace, I did give my agreement just for today. But it's been an hour since the Undersecretary left. I explicitly said that the cadets were free for the rest of the day… Sigh…
By the way, I also didn't see Yashiro anywhere. Where is she? Hmm… On a blind spot of a camera? No, perhaps she already went to sleep. I'll check up on her later, to make sure she's fine.
"Nothing to be done, then. Let's read up on the last report of the memory business." I do wonder where she is, but I suppose she also is close by. I'd have been notified if anything had happened to her.
Now, the report should be… This one should be it. So, what do we have here? Opening the file, drinking slowly while taking my time to scour the intel provided, what figments of tiredness where in me faded away.
…
Saw the subject when she was little… This world's him seemed to get along just fine with her… Decent progress, I suppose. Now, let's bring up the data of the headband here…
"…How interesting. So the delay in the surfacing is lessening with each session…" So Yashiro is having an easier time with the process, and he is no longer feeling as burdened by the toll of an ESPer… This lines up perfectly with my plans.
Alright, enough is enough. Let's call him here.
A few minutes afterwards…
"Yeah, everything went as well as before." He nods, drinking some coffee. "All okay on your end?"
"Of course. I arranged some meetings to gain authorization for the XM3's test as well as all the tech we're making, but for now we should remain on our guard. Until I see the sign on the papers I won't believe HC is completely on Alt. IV's side."
"Well, I'm sure that at the least we may be able to keep the Empire on our side once we roll out the Kagerou's new parts and the Shin too. Once it's made know we gave the Empire a stealth system, I'm sure many important people will stop seeing you with the evil eyes." He says, not a hint of doubt in his voice or in his shiny eyes.
Of course that they'll be happy. But I still gave them the toned down versions of the radars and sensors. I'm keeping the real deal for my use exclusively, no way in hell I'll hand the Empire this work of art.
"So, how was Tamase? Did she have a breakdown or something?" He smiles at me as he chuckles.
"She almost had one, truth be told. But honestly, I'm glad she could do it on her own. I think she will improve a lot from now on." Seeing him honestly relieved is all the proof I needed. Glad my little bet worked out.
Marimo was really worried about both of them, and was why she came up to me after your 'proposition' to have Tamase be the squad leader for a day. Now that she also suffered it herself, she sympathizes with the Undersecretary's plight. To be scorned and treated as a traitor just for joining the UN, even if you're still devoted to your nation. And since she wanted to let them have a happy reunion, I gave the OK for them to fool around a bit. Considering Tamase's display and the effect this will have on her performance going forward, it was a small price to pay. And it's not like I care about formalities anyways.
…After all, who knows if they'll get the chance to see each other again? I do plan to send her to Sadogashima, with her already remarkable sniping abilities, so… it truly was a small compromise compared to the effect this will have on her skills.
"Well, it is good to hear that. And about Tamase's background, don't worry about it. I knew beforehand she and her Father used to be nobles, I thought you knew as well."
"Sigh… This world gets weirder every day. For them to be a Tozama family that served the Koubuin's… Do you think Tama's Dad knew about me?" He crosses his arms as he leans back into the sofa.
"I mean, he didn't seem to recognize you so I don't think so. It's doubtful that each servant of the Shogun knows about every other servant in the House. Remember that they were the lowest rank of nobles, and going by that memory, this world's you was quite close to the Shogun growing up. I don't think Tamase or her father ever got to meet the Shogun when she was little." Otherwise, he'd have asked about you during our talk.
"I see. Well, there's something I've been meaning to ask for while, actually." Resting his cup on his lap, he looks up away from me.
"Hm? What is it?"
"Do you think you could probe for intel on the archives again?"
"…I believe I did tell you that probing more about him won't do us good. Are you not confident on your recovery sessions going well?" I lean forward, drilling my gaze into him. And again, he looks away.
…What does this mean? Perhaps, he is actually still burdened by the constant projection? He did go overboard yesterday morning during his training, after the fight with Takamura no less… However, even if he is tired, he should simply push through this for the good of the project.
And yet, just like the ones in my reflection, those eyebags growing under his eyes won't make this any easier on him… Maybe I should allow him to rest… to avoid the Guard from thinking I'm actually preventing them to meet with him, or gain their animosity once they're deceived. It's also for the good of the project, of course. Shirogane is required in good health once we start up the 00 Unit.
"If you're feeling exhausted, I can authorize you to rest tomorrow."
"Huh? No, I'm not that tired, though."
"Then, why do you want me to look into his data again?"
"No, it's not that… Well…" And again, he looks down, avoiding my eyes, clamping up. Coming up empty and shutting down on me, as my trials have done oh so many times.
"…Shirogane, what is the matter?"
"Sigh…" Finally looking at me, he scratches his head. "Do you think you can look into my parents' data without making much noise?"
…
"…Your parents? Not this world's you?"
"Yeah. I know you must have your reasons to not want to look into that, but-"
"Wait, you remember their names?"
"I always did." Furrowing his brows, he tilts his head.
"…And why didn't you tell me about that?"
"Well… You had already searched throughly on all data about this world's me, and since you didn't ask me to tell you I assumed you couldn't do it for some reason. I mean, you wouldn't let that pass you up."
Just… Sigh… All this time I thought he didn't know, that it was something unique to this world's him… And he was just keeping quiet all this time… when we could have used that intel in the negotiations with the General…
"W-Why are you glaring at me like that?" Narrowing his eyes at me, he then, yet again, looks away.
"Sigh… Doesn't matter. So, why did you want me to inquire into this again? There's no mention of your parents in the reports that… Shirogane?" He grimaced harshly, letting me see for just a second his clenched teeth. Why… would he…
"I saw them in a dream this morning, in a hospital. Couldn't hear very well what was going on, but I don't ever recall my Mom having health problems. I'd like to know what was of them. So, can you look into their profiles?"
…
Leaving aside the fact that he kept quiet about this dream for a whole day… Why is he asking me this? He should know I can handle something as meager as that. Sure, I can't probe into the Guard's archive for the moment to avoid arising suspicions, but the standard databases are not out of my reach.
Leaning further back onto my seat, crossing my arms, I look up,
The real question is, why did he grimace? Why did he hesitate? He should know my reach, and how useful this data is for our plan… And yet, it doesn't align with our prior talks when he was, for some reason I still cannot grasp, putting some space between us. Is he merely saddened then?
"Sensei?"
"Hm? Oh, yes… It's not an issue, you should know that."
"Then, why were you doubting just now?" I don't know, why are you doubting me now?
"It's nothing, I was just pondering something."
"You sure it's okay?"
…
Okay, now what? Why are you giving me that worried gaze? Again casting doubts on me, perhaps?
"…Why do you ask?"
"Well, you look real tired. If you're too busy, it can wait." Again scratching his head, he sighs. No delay on his words, and no intent to escape from my eyes this time.
"…I don't recall saying I was busy, furthermore, this is intel that we would need for you to play your role to deceive the Shogun, Shirogane. Something as simple as this shouldn't pose any trouble to me."
"What about those eyebags, though?"
"Nothing you should concern yourself with." A small frown formed on him, and when I thought he was about to continue pushing he simply sighed and shook his head.
"Okay, if you say so… Just make sure to get enough sleep, Sensei."
"…In any case, your parents' names are…" He then tells me their names, with the proper kanji and everything. "Hmm… Easy enough. I'll have it done by tomorrow."
"Cool. So, in the meantime, can I go do another recovery session? I'd like to see something about them today."
"…Might I ask why? You can leave this on my hands, if you're that curious about their lives in this world. I believe you should focus on regaining memories that could be used to convince the Shogun of your identity." Pursing his lips, he holds my gaze without receding.
"Well, that's true… But still, I'd like to try that out today."
…And he then remains quiet, going for another sip. Refusing to tell me why, dismissing my offer without missing a heartbeat. Why is he still… No, in any case, whatever he sees Yashiro will tell me about it. And to continue to pressure him won't do me any good. While I could order him to focus on something else, if he wants to see this so badly… I suppose I can allow it, just this once. After all, I do get more data from the sessions, and that will help in the final stretch to tune the ESP protocol for the 00 Unit. A small reward for allowing me to deal with today's accident without issues, nothing more.
"Alright, I'll allow it. But just for today, I expect you to again focus on Her Purpleness from tomorrow on."
"Roger. Well, I'll be going to Kasumi."
"…Wait, Shirogane. Do you know where is Yashiro?" He freezes as he gets up, furrowing his brows at me.
"What do you mean? Isn't she in Sumika's room?"
"No, I sent her along Marimo to greet the Undersecretary but she never came back."
"Wait, so where is she then?" It seems like he doesn't know, but wasn't she with them when the alarm rang?
"That's what I want to know. You don't know where she is?"
"How could I… Ah." He opens his eyes wide as if he had closed a window without saving the doc he was working on.
One trip to the bathrooms later…
"Seriously, why do you always agree to that?" Shirogane questioned Yashiro as she ate her dinner. He looked really conflicted for some reason.
"She looked like she wanted to impress her Dad. So I helped." She smiles, causing him to sigh. Hehe, when you're with Yashiro you do make very amusing faces.
"Shirogane, did Yashiro do this before?"
"All the time." He raises both hands to the air while rolling his eyes before sitting on his sofa. "I haven't seen her refuse that order even once." Hehehe… So you go back to normal when around her, huh.
"Well, let's get back on track. Shirogane, while she eats, let me inform you that I have a mission for you this Sunday."
"A mission?" He straightens up, his eyes become focused on me.
"I want you to start training Yashiro to pilot."
"Wait, what? You want Kasumi to pilot?" He seemed surprised, he took a look at her and she gave a smile.
"So I said. She does have a personal TSF that only she can use to its full capabilities, and I know no better pilot to teach her than you. Not like she'll listen to anyone else." She then nods. Shirogane scratches his head, closing his eyes tightly.
"That's another difference to the list. So, why can't we have her ride a Type-00 or a modified Kagerou?"
"Because that TSF has many special sensors that were made especially for it. Even if we can't use it for its original purpose, I belive that it would prove useful during a Hive infiltration or during a crowded fight."
I did remember we had it when he asked me to put sensors on the swords. Even if its specs are outdated, it's nothing we can't improve with our current developments. Furthermore, if he is enduring the toll of an ESPer now, he just might be able to allow her to reach her top performance in the future if they work well together.
"And why can't we make new versions of those things for the Kagerou? Or for the Shin?" Pointing a finger up, he raises a brow.
…Wait, he's right. I do have new tech now, thanks to him. Asking for the license wouldn't be a problem with my current standing… Actually, it would work to my favor, to engage that company in my 'development's as well. They might even begin to fully support me if they get a nice slice of the cake…
And we need a test pilot for the Shin, and Yashiro's previous numbers are actually decent… It would require some modifications to the Shin's frame…
But I could definitely do this, it isn't out of my reach. And by doing this, by having more parts requiring my architecture and programs… Looking forward, this would ensure the UN will need to stay on my good side for the years to come… Without talking of the opportunities to gain further influence on-
"Sensei, you hearing?" And he apparently got fed up with me keeping quiet and raised his voice. You just can't sit still for a minute, huh.
"Yes, yes. I admit you proposed a good idea, and it isn't out of our reach. But we would have to modify the Shin Kagerou for it to work properly, and we don't yet know if it would work smoothly. For the time being, Yashiro will keep using the Mindseeker until we confirm whether we can replicate the ESP sensors."
"The Mindseeker?"
"It's my machine." Yashiro looks downwards as her eyes tremble a bit. "I was supposed to pilot it with… one of my sisters. But since Alt. III was scrapped, we never got deployed."
"Okay, hold up. Kasumi has sisters?"
"You didn't knew that? I thought I had informed you about Alt. III in the other worlds, going by your explanation." He groans as he takes another sip of his coffee.
"I knew Kasumi was involved in Alt. III due to being an ESPer, but I didn't knew she had sisters. I suppose she's talking about the other ESPers, right?" He looks at her and she nods, staring at him. Not a single change in her complexion, which means Shirogane doesn't think of them as witches or anything. It is a relief to have someone that Yashiro can open up to.
"Yes, I was told that ESPers were going to be piloting together, if Alt. III hadn't been cancelled."
"Huh. So, this Mindseeker can be piloted by two people at the same time?" He seems really interested in that, the minute furrowing of his brows as whenever he gets fired up.
"Yes, it's a variant of the F-14. I acquired one when Alt. IV started, when Yashiro was assigned under me. We're keeping it under wraps on Hangar 78, on B22F. If you accept, I'll transfer it to Hangar 90 under your care, Chief." I smile at him, causing him to blush. It's so fun to see him get all bashful.
"Stop calling me Chief. Well, if Kasumi is alright with it I'll do it. I mean, she's been exhausted these days, with the memory thing and all. You sure you can handle it?" Looking at her, a tint of concern grafted on his tone.
You really overworry about just everything. That's because she's also helping me with some programming for the 00 Unit. And yet, despite you being tired as well, you worry about her first, huh.
"I can do it." She moves her bunny ears up and down a few times, locking her eyes with him. He then gives a nod.
"Alright. Then I'll train you. But who is she going to pilot with? You did say the Mindseeker was a two-pilot TSF."
"You, of course."
"Huh? Oh, so I'll tag along with her to show her my movements on action. I get it."
"You'll be under the Viking callsign again. You're Viking 1 and she's Viking 2. I'll have you spar against the Valkyries this time. I already installed the XM3 onto the Mindseeker, so don't worry about it."
"Pfft…" He holds his mouth as he laughs. Yashiro pouts at him, then she starts lightly chopping his shoulder.
"Shirogane, what's the problem?"
"S-Sorry, I just imagined Kasumi wearing a viking helmet and waving an axe around. I couldn't contain myself, sorry about that." He chuckles a bit as Yashiro keeps chopping his shoulder. Can't help but to chuckle at this.
"Sigh… You're awfully relaxed, as always. Well, in any case, I'll have to see if Yashiro can eventually pilot by herself. If she does, I'll start making a second Shin Kagerou for her. You two can go to do another memory recovery now, just don't exhaust yourselves."
"Yeah, I know. Tomorrow I do start with the mock battles. By the by, I left a report on how things are going on the usual folder." I nod at him with a smile, now that he finally seems to be willing to send me reports on a daily basis.
"I'll do my best." She moves her bunny ears again, then she stands up and takes her empty plate to a shelve, wiping it clean herself. She's so diligent, as usual.
"Good. Now then, off you go."
"Yes, yes. But you do look real tired though, so don't stay up too late, Sensei. Everything should be fine for a while." Smiling again, he nods at me.
"…Shut up. Didn't you want to go do that recovery session really badly?"
"Sigh… Just take care of yourself, okay?" Mmgh… What's with him all of a sudden? "Well, let's go Kasumi. Good night, Sensei." Waving as he had always done before, he leaves the office with Yashiro right behind him.
So when you're around her you smile, but when she isn't you freeze over… Well, in any case, it's good that Yashiro has a partner again.
Standing up, drowning another yawn as I left my cup on its usual shelve, I then sent word to the crew on Hangar 78, to send the machine to Hangar 90 for the final touches on its maintenance for the mock battle, and so that they made sure the limiter of the ESP sensors was still working well. I do think they can handle it… and Yashiro wouldn't lose more than a day on the bed… but I can't risk his safety. In case the Guards try to inquire about the matter, and to ensure he can be ready for when the 00 Unit is started.
"Sigh… Yes, it's just to make sure the pawn reaches to other end… To get myself another Queen." Sitting back, spinning for a moment, my sight grew blurry as I couldn't help but to squint my eyes.
It's not like I enjoy seeing Yashiro turning into that silent puppet, but I was curious the first times. The sheer power of the Mindseeker when she activated a psychic link was unmatched, I can't even begin to understand what could be achieved if she could go into Prafka if we had another ESPer on the base.
However, no pilot could withstand the pressure of the psychic link. And no one could become a stable trigger for her either. I believe Shirogane might be able to endure the strain from the link, even if he isn't an ESPer. Of course, it would have been better if we could have gotten Yashiro's sister with her too. Even so, she'll be a good addition to our forces if she can copy Shirogane's style, and on the off chance that he can withstand the effects of the psychic link we could have an unstoppable duo.
But that's only if Shirogane can successfully link with Yashiro, and honestly I don't want to risk any damage to their psyche to test that out.
Though it's surprising I forgot about the Mindseeker. I can't keep everything in my head all the time, but I suppose… letting Shirogane oversee Yashiro's training, and the possible second prototype of the Shin Kagerou, is the right choice.
I lean back on my seat, crossing my arms, spinning a bit more slowly.
Now, I'll get to test those Type-00C the Valkyries have been training with this week and Yashiro's abilities… It's a shame the Shin isn't ready yet, but we'll get there eventually… And they'll be gathering more data about the Nucleus too…
Closing my eyes, inhaling until my lungs are full, one leg crosses over the other.
I just gotta look into his parents' profiles later… Yeah, that's easy as pie…
Hmm… How long has it been since I ate pie, again?
"…W-Wait, I can't… Yaaawn…"
Again, my eyes watered, my head began to fall down as if I had a brick tied on it. Swaying a bit, yet again my mouth disobeyed and teared itself open to yawn, a shiver running through my sides.
"D-Dammit… I should write down a memo to look into his parents' data… for tomorrow… Yaaawn…"
…I also need to put an alarm so that I don't oversleep, prep up the machinery so that Yashiro can ease up in case the recovery session is taxing on her, organize Motoko-nee's reports to read up on them before the tests… make another memo for the speech I need for the meetings as well as to look into the footage I asked to be prepared… and I'll also have to free my schedule to have time to read the CO's comments about the Sadogashima plan I should be sending him… I also need to stay on the lookout for what the Guards do from now on…
…Yaaaawn.