Chapter 84:
Landmines in the Masquerade
December 5th. Around 11 AM.
(Yuuko's Office.)
[Yuuko]
Sighing with a vengeance, I sit on my chair and he remains standing. A few fingers clasp onto my chin, I spin for a second before facing the immutable expression directly. Chief Yoroi has remained oddly quiet since Pyatkh found him making his way to the office, thanks to Yashiro's warning. In his usual attire, hands in his pockets, he stands only a few steps from the desk. The small smile never changing, the hidden arrow never leaving his eyes.
"…So what is this about? Surely you didn't bring any odd souvenirs for the inspection teams, did you?"
"Oh, don't worry. I left the dodo plushy in Takeru Shirogane's hands. However, if you were wanting to get your own, I could easily-"
"Chief, get to the point. I'm terribly busy today."
"…So the dodos aren't important, huh? I wonder, when was the last time you showed me a smile for my services?" He laments, gesturing as if to wipe a non-existent tear from his desert dry cheek.
So I narrow my eyes, resting both hands on the wood along a warning of an incoming gavel. "If you don't want to be Hayase's punching bag for the next hour, start talking. I am busy, Chief. You should know why."
"Well, I was told that someone saw a few odd people following a certain group since a few days ago," he mentions undisturbed while tipping his hat downwards, losing the smile, gaining a lingering acid to his words.
"…I see. How does that relate to Alt IV?" I did expect some people to notice, but for him to come personally… Which is it? On which side are you and Her Purpleness on?
"I can understand why they would be curious," he smiles again, waving his hand as if trying to send a breeze to himself. "It seems that there was someone who had become a regular at a sushi shop in the Capital as of late. I do recall telling you of this new establishment, of how their Golden Rolls were culinary works of art."
"Oh, really? What is it with that regular?" I ask while sinking back onto my chair, not lifting my stare.
"You see, he was truly upset that the new business wasn't favored, that the rest preferred to go to the rotating kind of establishments. He often expressed that said practice was against the spirit of sushi, that has to be eaten as it's served," he nods at the end of his slow telling.
I slowly narrow my eyes as I sigh, beginning to spin on my chair. "You don't say. So that regular was upset people weren't following the traditions? Quite the tantrum for a grown man."
"No, he was upset that everyone seemed to think rotating sushi bars were the only alternative left for the business to flourish, all to please the foreigners who saw traditional sushi bars as boring and bare-bones," he couldn't hide the extra pressure of a fingertip onto the hat, acid surfacing again despite the smile never leaving. "I do agree to some extent with the proposition, waiting until the right sushi reaches my seat only to see it taken away by someone else is truly infuriating, won't you agree?"
"If I want something, I go and get it myself. If the rotary equipment has a determined serving place, I'd sit near it to not have to wait. Complaining about the system in such a way is truly childish." Barely answering, I lean on my palm as I send a side glance at him. His brows moved for a second, smile shuffling backwards.
"Well, I rather keep my inner child alive for as long as I can," he chuckles heartily, looking undaunted by my glare. I'm at my wits' end here, so hurry up and get to the damn point. "Also, one could end up eating more than what one plans to in the rotary sushi bars. Temptation is a cruel, bewitching mistress after all."
"…So, what does this has to do with Alt IV?" Stopping spinning, I let go of the chain of my face, now frowning at him and his attempts at making me trip.
He coughs, sobering up. "As I was saying, the old regulars were very upset, I'll have you know. However, after the CCSE, as sudden as a May affair, most of their movements were halted and I haven't heard them complaining as much as they used to."
"…What do you mean?" That's not what my informants have told me. Sagiri was still readying himself and his group, awaiting a spark to light up a blaze.
"So you were not involved in that negotiation?" For a second I was about to retort to his accusation, I manage to clamp my lips and tighten my hands, staring in silence. He immediately raises his hands, regaining that small, insufferable smile. "Please don't shoot the messenger. I'm merely passing the question to you."
Sighing hard, I spin slowly to lift the congestion of aggravations that wish to fly away to his ears. Shaking my head, looking at the red and white mug, I brush the pungency away and lock onto the certain trails I know of.
I have confirmed Sagiri is only a pawn, he lacks the backbone to truly perform a coup only with his loyal men. Their radical group could, theoretically, swarm the Edo Palace and that's it. As soon as the rest of the IJA starts to move, they're done for. Perhaps, killing the Prime Minister and making themselves be heard is all they're truly after. If so, their naivety is only second to their narrow-sightedness.
Still, tragedy begets opportunity. And certainly, this is a chance few would let go off. Both from within and outside our borders. Only with support from… an outside source could Sagiri get his hands on all the map charts he would need, or the man power to actually take over the Capital and fight off the Royal Guard to get to Her Highness. All relies on her accepting an audience with him, and surely he and his group already have ideas in case she were to leave the Capital.
…And something tells me I'm staring at the main piece of charcoal that's lighting up this fire. Are his words to be trusted, however?
Knowingly going through the coup despite the risks, Sagiri must have been fed up with the status quo of the other world Shirogane went through. So, despite all the differences this world has, how Shirogane confirmed it hoists a stronger nationalist ideal, as well as the possibility of a leak granting him dreams of whatever happened after Alt IV was lost in other worlds, Sagiri as of now 'seems to be quiet'?
"…I was concerned about Sagiri, yes. I do not need any accidents to happen while we're in Sadogashima. I only had him under vigilance, that's all. What's this about halted affairs?"
Chief Yoroi slowly gets closer, leaning forward and producing a small notebook from his suit, with a pencil slotted on the side of it. He quickly scribbles something and passes me the page after folding it up. A finger goes to his lips as I took the paper. Eyes only, huh?
…
Someone put pressure to enhance the agitation that was being instigated to send Sagiri towards a coup. Part of it came from a sector from the UN's Japan Branch, who are not entirely aligned with me, the same assholes that thought I'd welcome the notion of executing Shirogane for the mess of a CCSE they brought out. The other… coming from a certain extremist group, one of the core backers of the rushing of Alt V and the raid on the Original Hive. Huh, now this is interesting… So you're already moving out for blood. I chuckle for a moment, since this is unexpected as a simple program eating up all my ram. Not that such a case hasn't presented itself in my time in charge of Alt IV, but the point still stands.
"So he just… got quiet all of a sudden after being fed some intel? He isn't trying to do something on his own?"
"Indeed, what an odd occurrence, wouldn't you agree?"
"Odd? Yes. Unimportant for Alt IV's goals? Also yes."
"Hahaha… What a cruel rose you are, Professor. Certainly, such an oddity deserves more than a passing glance?"
"Not like you aren't the one passing around folders."
"Well, that is true, yet one cannot deny that a small spark is all that's required at times to start a fire."
"…I am going to send support to the relief efforts, personally. Make that clear to Her Highness and her devotees."
A slow raise of a brow, tension in the string, arrow raising. "Oh? Really, now? I was under the impression you were rather short staffed? In any case, Her Highness will be pleased with the news," he tips his hat, giving half a smile. "Still, that's only patchwork. I doubt you'd be… satisfied with such a solution," it turns into a smirk as our stares crash.
"No other accidents will occur, be sure of it Chief."
"Perhaps, what has already occurred will instead fuel this engine to life. Perhaps, it is merely biding its time. Neither of us would welcome anyone disturbing that bar, after all," he chuckles, stopping as I forward a glare.
"…I suppose you're here because you think this has something to do with Shirogane?"
"Oh, what has made you bring up his name here?" He raises a brow, a hand on his chin as he leans forward, smiling like a clown, playing his part to the tune. Whose tune, that's the question.
"Please, anyone could see where this was going. Sagiri was already aware of Ayamine's presence here, and I doubt he either knows or cares about Tamase, Sakaki, or your daughter. And there's no way he knows of Mitsurugi's real identity. So, if your own scouts say he suddenly grew cautious after being given a push, which I assume was something related to the CCSE," I stare, he returns a nod in sobriety, lips shrinking, "then I suppose he saw Shirogane's name, and that has something to do with his newfound over-caution?"
"…You know, as of late I've been unable to surprise people with my reports," he once more laments, bringing his hat to his chest, expression falling to pieces. If I didn't knew him, I'd think he truly was at the verge of tears.
"Are you losing your edge, Chief?"
"Oh, that might be the case. Even Takeru Shirogane saw through my plushy with ease," he smiles, nodding once. Seeming pleased for some odd reason as he returns to normal.
Sigh… Why did he give the plushy to Shirogane? He usually leaves the things here only to make our teams work on them pointlessly because they never have bugs. Perhaps… Trying to spur a memory to surface? Testing if Shirogane is truly himself?
…For which side? You wouldn't be thinking on harming Shirogane now, would you Chief? Would Sagiri raise in arms at the threat of Shirogane being alive once more? No, think. Was the intel on the CCSE sent due to what occurred to Ayamine? To try and spur him into defiance to the UN? Or, maybe, those who wish Shirogane to be removed from the squad wanted to put pressure to fit their goals? The Chief seemed slightly distraught at my mention of the CCSE. Meaning, the data was sent. And he was not related to that, much less pleased in the outcome.
"…So, what is your real reason to be here? What does Her Highness require of me now?"
"No, this time Her Highness isn't the one directing my moves," he returns my gaze fully, slowly tipping his hat, quietly coming closer, briefly curving the edge of his lips. "So long as Alt IV is successful, I believe Sagiri could be pacified if everything goes according to plan when Sadogashima is reclaimed. While it is true some in the IJA do not favor the UN, I doubt they would act based solely on that feeling."
"I see… So he had already gotten quieter before 'they' reinforced the pressure?"
"Indeed. I do not discard that someone sent word to spark up the hostilities in light of your announcements during the last meeting, yet I doubt that faction would simply give in so willingly."
"…Which means, one of them was in the retinues that came with the Undersecretary, and probably also present during my announcements as well. I suppose you want a list of the people that came, don't you?"
He smiles and nods, again tapping his hat. "Thanks for making my work easier, Professor. It is good to work with someone who gets to the point quickly."
"Sigh… What do I get out of this favor?" I could investigate on my own, though it makes it easier on me if he wants to lend a hand.
"Well… I can feed false intel of your choosing to certain parties, in case you wished to hide Takeru Shirogane while he remained serving the UN. As well as aid you in keeping an eye on the sushi bar, to not have your men stand out in the streets. Of course," he lowers his hat and tone, jaw tightening ever so slightly, "if you would desire to place your own spark upon the establishment, I suppose I could acquiesce."
"…I guess this works for our mutual benefit. I'll have Pyatkh give you the list before you leave, and I'll contact you when I wish to have you keep your end of the deal," I tell, hand on my chin, as I stare. He nods, placing the hat on his chest as he then makes a small bow.
"Thank you kindly, Professor. However, there is one matter that must be addressed to raise the coming operation's chances of success to a degree many will be comfortable with."
"…And that is?"
"The cases of BETA appearing in the mainland. According to my informants, there were some… victims to these stray appearances after the last mission, thanks to some high ranking officers not sending the right support when it was needed," he gives a short, fleeting sigh, I roll my eyes as I also do. Shirogane won't let me hear the end of this if he finds out. Great. Wait…
I never told him of the BETA attacking isolated settlements, did I? I wonder if he knows anything… He did mention the BETA attacked the base, how they surfaced almost by our defenses' side in the mails he sent me about the Sadogashima mission of his last loop. Yet he has not mentioned anything about this incident. Dammit, I should have asked him about this before. No matter, we're still safe. If Sadogashima goes better and we don't lose Model B this attack will be thwarted with ease and minimal losses.
I still would like you to be completely open with me, Shirogane. But we'll talk at large tonight, don't worry.
"You seem… to be pondering something important, Professor." I look at him again, still smiling as his ballista readied itself, tensing his brows before shooting. "For such thorns to raise in threat, what could be troubling our one and only Professor Kouzuki? Do you happen to possess any intel you would be willing to share?"
"…No, I am merely reviewing my moves to ensure Operation 21st succeeds. Moreover, the UN doesn't have authorization to move out in the western side of the Empire and doing so might upset some of the more avid loyalists in the IJA. Furthermore, the crew of Yokosuka should be the one dealing with the scouting."
"Still, perhaps the A-01 could aid in these endeavors?" He tilts his head, the glint of the bolt openly visible in his eyes.
"They're readying themselves for the mission full time. I don't do charity, Chief."
"Well, perhaps, you could send them undercover along the pigeons to the relief-"
"I don't do requests, Chief. You should be grateful I haven't deported Shirogane and accepted to aid the relief efforts, after all the mess of the last few days," I remain composed, my voice level and my expression neutral, a rampart of dry ice.
I don't know what caused him to be suddenly suspicious, but I can't, I won't show him anything. You made me trip multiple times since we met, I'm not going to keep letting you gain intel from me in the same way.
"…Surely you can't risk the BETA suddenly surfacing in Niigata while the Sadogashima operation is on-going?" He suggests, slow.
"I can manage just fine, thank you. I am making plans to counter any and all setbacks that might present themselves." And if Shirogane starts cooperating, then we're all set.
I narrow my eyes, fingers joining as I rest my elbows on the desk. He holds my gaze, bolts and arrows ready to come out yet restrained for now. If he insisted on solely the relief efforts, I could understand. But aiming his shots at the stray BETA… Warning or threat? Still, he does have a point in that I can't overlook this situation.
According to Shirogane's notes of his past experience, the BETA attacked the base after Op 21st coming straight from Gunma, hiding under the ground, and using our tactics to boot, possessing knowledge of how to deactivate an S-11. While we tested that the Reactor hasn't transferred our intel to the BETA yet, the Sadogashima Hive's tunnels can reach the mainland now so we have to take it down as soon as possible before they launch an invasion behind our defenses, even if Shirogane affirmed nothing like that happened in his first loops after Iceberg, despite refusing to elaborate on what actually happened until I give him an answer. And the possibility of them launching an attack as of now, after we're having the 00 Unit connect to the Reactor and after all the tests I did to guarantee that no data was leaked, is a certain threat.
A threat I can use to my advantage. So long as the BETA are breathing down our necks, Sagiri won't be foolish enough to do a coup, I believe. And come next year Alt IV will be showing off results left and right, giving the Empire more recognition and lifting the burden of the tight defense lines from their shoulders. Once the situation for the general population improves, he won't have most of his current backers within the IJA. If Alt IV proves itself superior, America might openly accept it as the best plan and thus Sagiri's lifelines will vanish into thin air.
Of course, I do not believe the other players will remain idling by. It's a matter on what is best in the long term. Gaining the IRG's support would mean much, more so if somehow power is restored to the Shogunate. Simply saving Her Purpleness should be enough to gain her blessing, what with Shirogane's-
Oh.
Right. Shit… Could I somehow convince him to stay despite the coup? I have not had any dreams nor odd feelings creeping into me yet. Despite my pressure, he remained steadfast in the four options he forwarded. Without him… I still can go through the coup, gain the Empire's support. Yoroi here would truly be on my side then. Taking cards to prevent this, to counter the people Shirogane desires to strike down… if linked back to me, it could easily backfire. Not to mention, the ripples we'd have to deal with afterwards.
"…You seem to be pondering the state of things very thoroughly," he notes, sober and lacking any tint to his tone. "I had thought you to already be aware of the terrain's look. Please, those bladed thorns are ruining your complexion, Professor."
"I'm merely weighing my options, Chief. Much rides on the Sadogashima mission."
"And precisely because of that, I believe that it would be in your best interests to solve this issue now, with all due respect," he affirms, clashing his gaze with mine with the habitual inexpressive mask he wears off.
"I think it's quite fair to affirm that moving carelessly could, and will, cause a domino effect. I highly doubt Sagiri is what we are both truly concerned about," I scoff, shaking my head as he starts to chuckle.
"Ahaha, you're truly a sharp, cruel rose. However, it would be a shame if all the efforts you've put into gaining Her Highness' favor were to crumble due to a sudden paradigm shift."
"…Surely you wouldn't be trying to use me for your own agenda, would you Chief?" I accuse, tone slowing down.
"Perish the thought. I merely find the timing of this deceleration odd, and very perplexing."
Ge again smiles, slowly waving a hand as if it were a candle's flame, gazing at the maps on the wall, to what in the east lies.
"If anyone wanted to strike at your project, now would be the most opportune time. Yet, everything seems to be rather… calm, eerily so, compared to how everything looked in the field but moments ago. And if anything could reignite the tension, that is the stray BETA that randomly appear after an attack."
Tipping his hat, hiding his eyes, he leans on the wall as his telling slow downs, drenched in acid.
"The IJA will claim the defense lines were useless, that cramping the population within the shelters was meaningless, that the UN was deceiving them. Maybe then they'll release the reports of the destroyed villages in the radios or through a broadcast, claiming the UN was pressuring them to keep quiet and that Sakaki's cabinet was in league with these efforts."
Quite the elaborate description for what could occur, huh.
"So, you're saying they could rally their troops against us despite the fact that the BETA might still attack during this… petty infighting?" I inquire, causing tension and animosity to well up. The lower lip seemed to be forced to retreat within as he relents a nod. "Well, while the warning is appreciated, there is little we can do against that, can we? If Sagiri do desires, they can and will use the stray BETA as a spark and no report will deter them." After all, if the BETA threat did not stop them during Shirogane's last experience, it certainly won't in this world. "There is one thing you can be sure of, Chief. No rebel will stop Alt IV from starting," I affirm, smirking.
"However, if said unrest made its way to the UN's Security Council-"
"Stop beating around the bush, Chief. What are you truly after? My help in… suppressing these soldiers before they act? You know that we can't take an open political position."
"…I already said I came here on my own, and I do not wish to have you start a fight with the IJA."
So you don't deny that you want the fight to occur, just that you don't want us to be the ones who start it, huh… Seems like Shirogane's notes also apply for this world, Chief Yoroi did leak the plans of Her Highness' escape from the Capital and seemed to be playing as a double agent, to the point that he had to 'vanish' and his daughter was taken in for questioning.
"Then, get to the point before I lose what little remains of my patience." I lean back on my seat, placing a hand on my chin, firing off a glare.
He endures the drizzle, not breaking eye contact. "While I was tasked with delivering a pair of items here, there were another set of reasons for me to take the time to do so now. First, I believe you do need to deal with Sagiri in one way or the other. After the… tensions sparked by the Yukon Incident, I believe we'll both agree that America wishes to stabilize the Far East Frontline."
"Nothing will occur so long as no spark can lift off. And if the stray BETA are revealed, that is something that will affect more than just the Empire." Though, I know a few who would welcome the spreading chaos that would ensue. "Yet, I will not risk the first move. The UN won't involve itself in the Empire's inner matters, even if I were to request an investigation."
He nods, once more smiling. "Precisely. There are some strings you can pull to calm down the regulars of the sushi bar, though."
"For example?"
"Well, I heard they actually dislike natto rolls, very much so. If they were restored to the menu, I'm certain they'd have to do a double take. Not even the snake would dare to reach for the apple, since it dislikes the strong smell of natto."
"…What?"
"Hm? Oh, you don't know? Interesting…"
"Chief, you have two minutes to explain yourself."
He immediately raises both hands in defense, chuckling so erratically, so annoyingly. "I believe you already know what I speak of. But I'll cut to the chase," he straightens his suit, undaunted steel meeting my gaze, "you could send Shirogane to the Capital. His presence alone would be deterrent enough."
"…I am not going to use my protegee in such a way. I assume you are aware of his… ties?"
"A trainee of the Tsukuyomi House, mysteriously returning from Death's door as a UN cadet. The horror tale practically writes itself," he once more lets out a chuckle, that stops short as I begin to, very slowly, tap my papers while glaring. "Ahem… You could mend two issues with this action, in my opinion."
So this is what you're truly after. Quite foolish of you, Chief. Do you think you can try and harm my bodyguard?
"Interesting proposition. Do you think his name would be enough to strike fear in the valiant Sagiri?" I ask, leaning forward along a smile. "Despite how you warned me to dispose of him before?"
"Well, anyone would be shocked to see a dead man walking again," he deadpans, nodding a few times.
"And that could cause quite the commotion, don't you think? This is a delicate issue, that I shall oversee. Shirogane won't be leaving to the Capital any time soon. Furthermore, I don't think he would-"
"Oh, I do believe Takeru Shirogane would welcome the notion to visit the Capital," he tells, a faint smile.
"What makes you affirm that?"
"Because I left a letter in Takeru Shirogane's hands."
"…What? From who?"
"You can speak of it with him, if you're so inclined."
Hitting the desk, standing up, my teeth remain closed for a second, keeping the tidal vulgarities at bay. "…And who authorized you to do as you please in my base? Shirogane is off limits, Chief." He says nothing, doesn't move, and remains returning my gaze as if a statue he were. "Answer me, who sent the letter?"
"…I am not UN, so I simply took my liberties. Also, Her Highness has already expressed her wishes to have Takeru Shirogane regain his memories. I wonder why you're so riled up about this…"
"Hmph… I am concerned, since he might have another shock as before. I'd be foolish to not be taking his mental health into consideration."
"Quite odd, coming from you," he chuckles, slower than before, "who would have said you'd grant a shield of petals to him."
"Who sent the letter? I am not asking again."
"I suggest you to talk about this with Takeru Shirogane, and proceed as you believe is best after hearing his thoughts."
Rough and dry, inflexible as my equations' numbers. Ruthless and cold, without caring a single bit about my needs or position, only caring about the right result. Heh, people can be just as, if not colder, than my research is to me, after all.
"I will remember this little… mischievous act of yours, Chief," I smile as I sit down, resting onto a still tight fist. "If something is wrong with Shirogane after he reads this little letter… I'll make sure you repay me, and him, for your carelessness."
"I shall accept any punishments or requests you place on me. You were the one who taught me not to hesitate when reaching out for my goals, after all," he then chuckles, I cannot help but to mimic him.
Though, our laughter is dry, restrained in our throats. And our smirks, twisted in their edges, are but a wordless confirmation on our dissidence. Of course, his loyalty lies with Her Purpleness after all. No… To the Shogunate would be more accurate.
"Well, the other reason I am here today is this," he takes out a small data pad from his suit, placing it on my desk. "Here is the confirmation of all troops that will take part in the coming operation, as well as the most recent intel on our sightings of the BETA in the mainland and Sadogashima. The IJA will place most of its military might at your service, and both the Navy and the Army are more than ready to lay down their lives to earn humanity's first victory if you gain the approval. Both the Shogunate and the Diet have forwarded their appeals and answers to your prior announcements, expect a formal document to be coming through the official channels shortly."
"…You could have saved valuable time for us both had you had gotten to the point, you know?"
"Haha, what can I say? I love monologuing," once more smiling for a moment, he places both hands within his pockets as a statue he becomes again. "As for my own reason to be here… I am of the opinion that, considering this odd step back that was taken, you should watch your shadow quite carefully. Many are the people pleased with your developments, but many more are those whose expectations have been dashed."
"So, basically, what I was already doing." However, if they gave up on Sagiri, it might mean their catalyst could have changed to fit the new board we created. "And I suppose that you have certain… interests vested in how this is resolved."
"Ahaha… I cannot best your eyes, it seems." So the notes do apply to this world too. Now it's a matter of whether we are on the same side or not. "If you ever require my services, all you need to do is call. Also, I insist on you sending some help to investigate this matter of the stray BETA. Not only for my own wishes, but for yours as well."
"…I'll keep it in mind. Anything else?"
"Not from me. I suppose Takeru Shirogane will come with the news in due time," he chuckles, until I frown and lean forward. "All I'll say is, solving the issues of his citizenship should be your priority, regardless of how you'd favor to deal with the sparks."
"You say he has enemies that are coming after us?" How odd, they never revealed much about him. What is it with him now? "Out with it, who is it?"
"…It's the opposite, actually," scratching his head, he chuckles, dryly. "I heard your talks with the General and Her Highness weren't exactly smooth sailing?" I sigh, shaking my head as I roll my eyes. "Ahaha… I don't think anyone will insist on him leaving the base as before, so rest assured in that. Her Highness does not oppose him working for the UN."
"Well, that is a good bit of news." Didn't seem like she was on board with that idea, at all, however.
"Yet, there are some that desire to see him, confirm for themselves he truly is alive and that he indeed is who he claims to be. Oh, and do not worry. We are working to keep trouble away from your horizon, Professor. No one wants such a beautiful rose squinting her eyes so," he affirms, again with that insufferable smile as he gives a small bow.
"Siiigh… Is Her Highness asking for another meeting, then?"
"…No, but not everyone is as patient as Her Highness or the Tsukuyomis, nor do many see you in such a good light as her."
"…Is that so?" The feeling is mutual, then.
If the Guard keeps pressuring us, Shirogane might react negatively. If he favored their aid, then he'd have welcomed the notion, suggested that to me. And yet, he hasn't said anything. Perhaps, because he's still waiting on my answer. In any case, I need to know what was in that letter and who wants to see him. He's… a too valuable asset to be hindered by these fools. Much less now that the 00 Unit is ready to be tuned, even if it overloaded itself again on our first test. I need him… operating at his full capabilities, so I cannot let anything burden Shirogane any more.
"Shirogane is currently required to stay here, focused on the missions. He isn't leaving anywhere, and he won't be meeting anyone from the Guard besides Her Highness or the ones watching over him. Feel free to tell that to whoever sent you to deliver the letter," I smirk, leaning forward, "and don't dare to repeat this, Chief. My patience only lasts so long."
"…I believe I might not want to push further." And you chose right, Chief. "By the way, might I ask about that device he has on his head?"
"…It's there to help him keep his migraines in check, that's all." I stand up, going to make me some coffee, grabbing a small cupcake.
"I see. So, regarding the matter of-"
"I'll send some scouts, if I can spare them and our aid is welcomed. Preparing for Sadogashima is my priority, as should be yours."
"…Indeed. Oh, before leaving, I'll leave you a-"
"Bring out another stuffed bird or a weird rock and I'm calling the Valkyries," I lunge for my communicator with the haste of Yashiro's running speed when faced with carrots.
"Ahaha… I have nothing on me. Please drop the comms, Professor," he requests, voice lowering as does his head, both hands once more up and trying to appease. I do so slowly as I narrow my eyes, he softly sighs, placing a lone finger over the rim of his hat as he looks at nowhere. "Ahem… Simply allow me to give you a bit of advice. She can be very stubborn, and I believe she won't stop insisting until you allow her to visit the base."
"…Who are you talking about?"
"The woman that sent a letter to Takeru Shirogane. Watch out for her, she also has a short temper as you do and it would be a shame if the relations with the Guard worsened all of a sudden."
"…That was a threat," I affirm, giving a chomp to the cupcake.
"No, it wasn't. If he truly is Takeru Shirogane…" his eyes gradually close, massaging his chin he exhales through his nose, "then, you should have nothing to worry about. He should know the truth, it won't do him good to remain in the dark for so long, especially if you desire to have the pigeons graduate and take part in Op 21st."
"That is for me to decide," I glare at him squinting my eyes, "as his current tutor," I add a second later. "Shirogane hasn't said he wants to learn of his past, and so, I see no reason to force the situation when it could backfire."
"Is that so? I wonder, why have you left the rumors unchecked then?"
His eyes look right into mine for a moment, that same coldness, that same harshness, that same arrow aimed right at my throat. I return the glare, slowly eating the cupcake and silently retaliating towards his wordless accusation.
"…I'll call Pyatkh to escort you out, and to give you the list you were wanting. I expect to hear back from you if you find anything suspicious about anyone."
He strongly places both hands on his suit as he straightens it up, gives a smile, tips his hat with a single finger and bows to me, departing without his traditional wordplay. I call Pyatkh and relay the orders to her as he leaves, sitting down and swallowing what was left of the cupcake as I start to spin.
…So, someone big is coming after Shirogane and the Chief still doubts that he's their Shirogane while also thinking I'm keeping him from the truth. I assume, someone was not very pleased with Her Purpleness' answer to let him stay here. Sigh… Nothing I can do, save for preparing for whoever it is that wants to poke their nose where they shouldn't, to try and take him off my side. And more loyalists to boot, great.
I assume, must be someone tied to his old squadron in the Guard. Someone from the Koubuin fellowship, that probably took part in Lucifer. Quickly flaring my PC to life, flashing past pointless reports and pop ups, I begin my search. Option one is the other Tsukuyomi, the one that came to deliver spare parts to the Blood squad. However, she has been serving Ikaruga since a few years before the invasion. Chances are, she's not on Shirogane's side. The females from the Kisaragi that could have met Shirogane are all dead, the ones from the Guren family are stuck in offices. They do not strike me as the type that would challenge me, going by what my crew says of the meetings. So that leaves-
"…The leader of the Strike Force," I say as the profile comes up, inhaling sharply and tasting iron.
Raiho Amato, leader of the Chain Squadron. I believe, she was in charge of some food plant project the UN wanted a piece of during the invasion. She stalwartly refused any cooperation, and to her credit the deals she has secured do seem to be on their way to fruition. I don't… have a particularly pleasant view of the woman, however. If I recall correctly, she was one of the strongest opposing voices to my directives during the invasion, to take the defense lines further back, to have the IRG work alongside the UN and IJA.
…And if my sources don't lie, she was behind the fall of-
…
"No… You gotta be kidding me."
Quickly typing, smashing the keys in a flurry, the result of the search voids me of air. There is a blank in her squadron's formation. I'm sure Shirogane is this missing member of the Chains. But then, that means… he was involved in the fall of Mogami?
…Chief Yoroi warned me of possible enemies, of how his presence could work as a deterrent. After all… that squadron was said to show neither justice nor mercy to the wicked. If Sagiri is the smokescreen, and the Chief chose to be frontal about it then, what lies in between the lines? Wait, the snake and the apple. Are you telling me-
"…Is EDEN trying to worm their way back into the Empire? Damn it all," I hit the keyboard, exiting the window, causing something unrelated to come to the front. I already have enough with the softer side of the cult, this is-
Could this be a mirror, a parallel to the events of another world? If I could gain even some small memory, regardless of how small, I could try and adapt the landscape. And yet, I find myself slumping onto my seat.
"No matter how much I try, I've no idea who could have written that dumb poem. Siiigh… I haven't noticed anything odd, my absorption of radiation hasn't changed either."
That being said, where is Shirogane? Why didn't he contact me about this letter? Let's see… my inbox doesn't have anything from him or Yashiro. He… wouldn't be thinking on meeting this woman, would he? No, what was he doing until now? Considering this threat… Why have you not come to me already?!
No, that doesn't matter. I inhale deeply, feeling the smell of the coffee before I drink it as I slowly sit down. I'll send him on a special mission if things look bad. I cannot lose such an important… resource, without him I can't tune the 00 Unit. The Guard can't be so idiotic to do something against me now when the mission is so close, even if Her Purpleness gets all riled up about how I'm handling 'her stepbrother'. Once the waters are calm, I'm certain they'll welcome a proposal to ensure no further outside interference can strike back at the project.
However, Shirogane did say something interesting about regarding their relation… A difference between 'Yuuhi' and 'Her Highness'. Perhaps, that is the reason why they're insisting so much. I can only wait until he comes and tells me of what the letter said. Still, I need to give him an answer soon… and if EDEN is in the picture, then I should try and bring stability sooner rather than later. To allow an intervention would be suicide, even if the US begins to support my project. Not to mention, I can only parley so much with what few Alt IV supporters, or Alt V decriers to be exact, I still have in the US.
Finishing my coffee and eating another cupcake, I spin in my chair, spinning and spinning, closing my eyes and fully resting my neck onto the cushioning.
"…You sure do like leaving me in wait as of late, Shirogane."
Same Day. Around the same time.
(Office. Camp Ichigaya, Tokyo.)
[Naoya]
Straightening the papers, I sort today's report before stashing it within a folder. Sigh… It is so disgusting, how they shift the blame onto the delivery services when we never receive enough supplies. Oh, but the 'favored' bases get their shipments in time. And of course the high political class has all their necessities covered. Is it so hard to give just a tiny more support to our people?
"Worst of all is, if the Capital Defense Regiment is in such state, what is left for the rest?"
What of our fellows in Kyushu? Of those holding the line near the possible attack lines coming from Sadogashima?
I walk to the window, basking in the incoming sunlight, in the busy streets of Tokyo. From here, it's almost as if there were no war. People are still working, walking to their everyday jobs, holding the line in our capital. Be it those who tend to the food centers, the shelters, the schools, the toll is beginning to show. Is there truly no other way… than to risk their lives in rebellion?
…What good is a blade that so simply surrenders to violence? Am I lacking resolve, perhaps? To merely live on in this monotonous dread would be equal to death, and yet… Can I so easily surrender their future, risk it all in hellfire and smoke? I will most certainly perish, yet those I leave behind… Will the melting snow serve to breathe new life onto our soil? Will it mingle and mix with the spilled blood into an amorphous corruption instead? Regardless, if this emergency evacuation we've heard about does come to pass, the shelters won't be able to hold out. To leave the people in meager excuses for tents, out at the elements' mercy…
"…Is there truly so little empathy left in your soul, Prime Minister?"
At the very least, I should reserve my judgment until Her Highness has spoken. We have a duty to ensure her conference proceeds smoothly, and cleansing my mind of clouds should be my-
"Captain," I hear her voice alongside a knock on my door.
"Enter," The figure of my second-in-command, 1st Lt Sayoko Komaki, takes some steps into my office, giving me a salute and standing in attention. "At ease. What is the matter?"
Not altering her firm posture, she takes a few steps forward. "I have come with two reports for you, sir. First, our contact in America has brought some papers for you," she holds up two dark gray envelopes in offering, which I take and start breezing through. "And second, our informants have confirmed that the UN will be lending their troops for the relief efforts."
"What? Are they… planning to forcefully remove our fellows from their rightful land?"
She shakes her head, immutable despite the small pursing of her lips. "We do not have confirmation on their intent. However, our sources seem to indicate that they're willing to send a few TSFs to the mission."
"I see… I can only hope some meager decency remains in those halls. Do we know from where the aid comes?"
"No, my apologies, sir," Sayoko bows down, tightly veiling her sight. "We were unable to receive a conclusive answer."
I pat her shoulder, giving a smile. "Such oppression in not deserved, you hold no blame, 2nd Lt Komaki," I affirm, she straightens once more and nods. "However, that does not equal we can relax just yet. Even if they're lending us a hand, it's the method which makes the madness. Our scouts are still vigilant, I assume?"
"Of course, sir. In that regard, I wish to inform you of something that caught my attention."
"What is it?"
"There were some people snooping around the perimeter of the base, as well as the sushi bar our fellows frequent while on leave," she notes, further tension to her already serious expression, arms bolted to her sides. "It is not a rare sight for some of the civvies that still choose to live nearby to come near the base, but these two individuals remained staring at the building, and from different places too as they moved around. I believe someone sent them to monitor our moves."
"Do you think our real intentions were leaked?"
"No, I doubt anyone in this base would betray you, sir. However, it is clear someone is wary of us," she looks down, tapping her glasses, "perhaps, due to the slowness of our movements of late."
Sighing, I face the window, meeting the dejection of the reflection. "…I cannot deny that," after all, we are merely pieces on the board. If it's not us, it will be another. "I trust in your instincts Komaki, so have some of ours perform a few surveillance patrols around the terrain every now and then. Don't do it all the time, we must not let them know we're suspicious of anyone."
"Yes, sir!"
"Also, did we already receive any news of the next budget?"
"Yes, it does seem like the Prime Minister will once more cut part of the Restoration Project, to use the money to rearm the western front," she informs, trying to remain composed, failing to tame her brows and lips.
"Heh, using some of their own money is out of the equation."
It's always the same. No matter the face, all of them are corrupt to the core. Just like how Shukaku-san was betrayed by politicians, those same corrupts are thriving on our suffering, leeching off our resources. But if I don't time my moves… the BETA will eradicate us. If another large herd comes our way while we fight, that which we desire to safeguard will fall. And that, that will be nothing but the toll of the final bell. Is this all I can accomplish?
"…When it is time for actions and not words, you should force the clouds to part with your own damn hands. If you ain't got the balls to do what's necessary, kindly fuck off the battlefield and go back to the reports, 1st Lt Sagiri."
The adusted voice returns, the pressure of the blaze. With war as its cloak, thriving amidst the carnage, that echo still resides within my ears. A frown is hewn into my features once more, carved deep into my soul.
"Sir, with all due respect," Sayoko calls, a hesitant and slow step forward, her eyes unable to rise and meet mine, "isn't this the most appropriate time to launch our offensive? The BETA's last attack in Niigata proved the frailty of our defenses, and now this evacuation only confirms our suspicions. We could easily-"
"And risk having another Shura's Dance?!" A shout left me, fueled by cinders of days past. Her lips clamp shut, she hastily dives into a deep bow in apology. "Raise Komaki, I didn't meant to let my woes to affect my voice." Sighing, I take off my glasses, rub my eyes for a moment. "I understand your feelings, but we must never underestimate the BETA. And if we start our plan now, the people won't take our side. It will seem as if we were kicking the government when they're weak, we'll be giving them a chance to victimize themselves, to seek support from the UN and the US. And I think I know what's in these folders…"
If that name from the new recruit was no mistake… Did you make a deal with the Devil? Or perhaps, your sins were so grave you were even denied the eternity of nothingness?
Shaking my head, I pace to my seat. "We might be playing as their pawns, but that doesn't mean we will follow their moves to the letter. Patience is key, Komaki. We must execute the valor that is discretion, until the time is right."
"Yes, forgive my rudeness, Captain," and again, Sayoko bows in apology.
"Please… It is alright. You may leave."
"Isn't there anything else you require of me? I could aid you sort these new reports, if you so wish," she proposes in a hushed tone, locking her gaze with mine.
"Sigh… Sit down, let's take a look at these documents together. Two heads think better than one." I nod and walk up to the other end of the room, preparing some coffee for the both of us.
As we drank, we discussed the data Sauber had sent us. It's clear he is not entirely false in his words, as what he tells aligns with our own intel. Even if this insistence is also born out of interest, I don't believe his words about desiring to offer honest aid. We are, truly, nothing but pieces on a board, but even so there is some merit to being a pawn. At the least, we can endeavor to athwart their plotting. It's all a matter of whether Her Highness will welcome the chance to free herself we shall offer.
As me and Komaki plan possible routes to surround the new Capital, brainstorming possible scenarios and double checking our allies' positions on a map, a page on the second folder cautches my attention.
Or, to be more precise, halts my heartbeat for a moment. I felt my throat twist on itself as the shock jolted my insides. A request for a report on someone Sauber didn't have any data on, couldn't find anything about.
"Captain? What is the matter?"
I quickly type the name into the databases and a profile shows up. Once more, my breathing halts as I stare, not believing what pops up on the screen. I take my glasses off, rub my eyes and look at the screen again. The writing does not change.
So you're truly back from the grave… Now of all times, this cannot be a coincidence. Why must you reappear at this moment, Black Fire?
"Captain, whatever is the problem?" Komaki's shoulders grew smaller as she gazes at me, seeming to be holding her breath. She rarely shows her inner feelings, so I take a deep breath to calm myself down and shake my head.
"I simply saw… someone I hadn't seen in a long time." I say, ripping the page apart, closing the site in my PC. "I'll handle the second folder on my own, 2nd Lt Komaki. It would be suspicious if you were to stay too long in my presence from the eyes of the few unaware ones here."
"…Yes, Captain," she immediately stands and salutes me, not inquiring about my sudden decision, and leaves after bowing by the door. Sigh… What would I do without her, really.
But, then again, what is the meaning of this? Why is a dead man walking? And why you, of all people?
"Takeru Shirogane… You truly are a revenant, I suppose," I cannot help but to chuckle at the state of affairs.
Quickly reopening his profile, only minimal intel remains in the report. Alaska, huh. Was he truly overseas or is this all lies? The beast that destroyed Mogami Base in a single night, the Black Fire that which surges after the Red Lightning. Shirogane, Chain Three, despite being of common descent was perhaps the most dreadful member of the Strike Force.
Does this mean… the UN is against us? I doubt I could get any insight on him without drawing eyes onto me, and I cannot do that. I already risk myself by sending those letters to Kei… Wait, that's it! According to this data, he's stationed at Yokohama. As a cadet, for some unexplainable reason. Well, he always favored the shadows, that much is true. I could at the least warn Kei of him, try and keep her safe. But does this mean the UN is cooperating with Shirogane?
Wait… A sudden approval to send aid to the relief efforts, despite the rather lack of cooperation between the UN and our forces of late. Is this your doing? Did he gave up on struggling from the inside? Or, on the contrary, is he operating in the UN for his own gains? Predicting his moves is a futile effort, that much is true.
"Sigh… This threat completely changes the landscape. The smallest push, the faintest spark… if he's showing himself openly again, it can only mean one thing," I shudder, frozen slugs spilling through my back, dripping all over me. The icy pain of the cold shower I endured during the invasion's worst days, the desire to curl up assails me.
Back before the invasion was fully repelled, I was tasked many 'favors' to cover Kei's trails. And of those, the ones I loath the most are the ones regarding you, Shirogane. Those first months of '99, having to 'cover' your missions…
…The instinct to puke comes up again when remembering how his squad even attacked some of my comrades, saying they were traitors involved in backroom deals. I knew those people better than them, there was no way anything of the sort happened! The Lt Col of Mogami Base was a very respected man, framing him with charges of selling and producing illegal drugs was nothing but the lowest a warrior could do. And according to some, there were some more awful charges pressed onto him.
I do agree with some of his targets, but to execute our fellows without trial… to use the cruelty of war for his own ends…
"Don't make me waste my time. It's clear as day, these bastards were involved in illegal acts that amount to treason towards our nation."
Always the same answer. 'Treason to the Empire', the perfect excuse no one could argue against without bringing about a brand upon oneself. And when pressed for clarification-
"I have no reason to tell you the specifics, soldier. I'd suggest you to open your eyes and take a clear look at who stands by your side, but you have to wear glasses to even see…"
Gulping what was left of my coffee, I again stand and open the window, feel the breeze rustle and wash over me as I light a cigarette. Simply standing, I look at the sky, at the clouds which threaten with covering it all again.
I concede some people were not worth my trust. But for someone so young, so ruthless, to be given such power… Why? A casualty of the war that only furthers the chain of pain, that's what he was. Even if his searing wrath cleansed a path forward, there is much regret left in the ashes.
And yet, standing here, watching at the city, at what we managed to protect, I realize that, perhaps, you were just like me, trying to brave the despair. If results are absolute, I suppose the future generations are to decide if our struggles were worth it or not. And yet, is there someone who can truly judge right from wrong within the desperation of carnage?
"And when our guard was down, we both did see eye to eye. Suffering only begets suffering, it is a venom that corrupts the mind, erodes the soul. More so in these times, where even the smallest elevation another may enjoy gives plentiful reasons for spite to fester like a disease."
A disease there is no cure for, a bewitching whisper which one cannot ignore at times. The desire to strike back, to lash out. Every time we hold a meeting, this meager office is barely able to hold all that mire within its four walls. It overflows, it sinks its fangs through the flesh, straight at the heart. Discontent which morphs to anger, anger which evolves to hatred. Had I not been taught under Shukaku-san I, too, would have fallen to such a cesspit. A cesspit you employed as a fuel source at times, Black Fire.
"And yet, looking at our current dilemmas… Perhaps, it simply has to be this way. I've carved my own path, you followed your wrath, and yet we met the same dead ends," letting out a puff of smoke then closing the window, I drag my feet back to the report, the request for intel Sauber forwarded. "If this is the landscape you fought against, maybe… we are far more similar than I thought."
To ensure yesterday never becomes tomorrow. That is what he always said whenever I pressed for answers.
Under that hope, perhaps I could eternally rest under the bloodstained snow. Would marching for my ideals despite the risks find some meaning? On which side would you stand if I raise a banner to war? Or is bloodshed all you desire to bring about?
Ring! Ring!
Hm? I wasn't expecting a call at this hour…
"Hello, Captain Sagiri speaking."
"Good afternoon, Captain. Might I borrow some of your time?" A small voice resonates from the other side of the line, I straighten up instinctively.
"Of course, 1st Lt Kobayashi. What is the matter?"
"We of the Royal Guard stationed here in Hibiya have been ordered to move out to assist the western front for the time being. Thus, there will be some shuffling of patrols near the Palace during the press conference. A report should be arriving to Ichigaya to update you on the IRG's positions. Considering how short staffed we already are, I decided to inform you ahead of time, so that you can hasten the commands."
"I see. Thanks for the intel, 1st Lt. Best of luck in your coming endeavors."
"Yes, likewise."
"If I may, what has caused this last minute arrangement? It is odd to hear such an important matter relayed in such haste, mere hours before the conference."
"Apologies, Captain. As you perhaps already know, the UN's aid has given us some… leeway to deal with certain pressing matters, is all," she says, composed and stable. "By the way, Captain," she asks, lowering her tone ever so slightly, "a bird told me someone rather suspicious presented itself at your base's gate at dawn break. Do you know anything about it?" Is she… suspecting me? I suppose the Royal Guard does want to avoid any kind of infighting after all. Also, damn you, Sauber. Be more careful next time.
"No, I was not aware of such happenings. I will ask around, just to make sure nothing is wrong in the base. Thanks for the tip, 1st Lt Kobayashi."
"It is nothing. It will be much appreciated if you can find out what was that about. Now then, until another time, Captain," She cut the call, without changing her sharp yet kind sounding tone.
If the Guard were watching over me… Does that mean you want to neutralize me, Shirogane? If he is the one behind this- No, he's in the UN as of now. Furtheemore, he knows no moderation. If I were in his sights, there would be no words left to speak. Yet, this sudden movement from the Chains is extremely suspicious. Not to mention, there has been some other oddities after the Defense of Niigata.
I might need to call Saito for intel and hope that mysterious caller contacts me again. For the time being, patience is my ally. I cannot show weakness, I must ensure my fellows remain composed in front of the adversity. Faltering isn't an option, not with the threat of the Black Fire on the horizon and the Red Lightning on the loose.
…And whatever lies buried in Kitanomaru as well.
A/N: Answering MonkeTitan's question, while Alt III is top secret, remember that the Pickles were part of the Swordbreakers, which are like the Valkyries of the Imperial Guard. Besides that, even if her status as an ESPer is not know, this world is more discriminatory than canon and Kasumi is Russian. So while not everyone treats her badly, prejudice is still there.
Also, no, Keru does not need a haircut. Long hair Takeru looks better.
Anyways, this was more of a transition chap not much action here. See you next time, thanks for reading. Stay safe.
Zuoriel