Chapter 92:

Unnumbered Excuse

December 6th. Near 6 AM.

(Detention Barracks.)

A slow gesture blocks the lips that part by reflex, young Yashiro cannot help but to release a long, elongated yawn. Softly rubbing an eye as she makes her way to the soldier's cell, once more does her mouth betray her will, from her chin to the base of her throat stiffness is followed by pleasant looseness. Even the footsteps which could be drowned by the march of ants sound deafening in the emptiness of the hallway, under the glare of the lightning which bounces off the walls. So she cannot fully open her eyes through the fogginess, her chin lowering inwards, almost meeting her dress as the temptation to nod off tickles her nape. It is, after all, a full hour earlier than her usual waking time. And the prior day had been an arduous one, the ones before all the more demanding on her petite shape. So you'd understand the wobbling advance, the sway of her head as if atop a small boat she were, the third yawn which rebels against her willpower.

And yet, through the shrouded and rather pleasant state of mid-wakefulness something reaches her ears, it makes her limiters bounce up on their own. A moment to blink quickly, a second of blindness as the rebounding light meets her unprepared sight, young Yashiro halts her steps and runs a hand over her face, listening. A slow twitch, a gradual ascent of the bunny ears along a singular brow, she tilts her head at the soft echo with dances from further into the hallway.

Now fully conscious, fully curious, she steps towards the source of the sound in a straight line. Through the concrete she perceives a faint cloud, a tiny and frail nebula as one would see during summer's most intense days. A mirage of yellow with lines that shift into a calm violet red, a slow shuffling of the fluffy shape, a calm downstream river.

And the more she approaches the cell the sounds come from, the one she was aiming to reach as per the scientist's orders, the voice becomes clearer.

"Yo quisiera que supieras… cuanto extraño tu presencia aquí," the soldier sings, low, the evening call of a lone bird during spring's closing days. "Y no puedo, no me atrevo…"

Peeking from the corner of the bars, she sees him lying comfortably on the sorry excuse of a bed available, already dressed in his fatigues. The odd cloud was surrounding his whole being as he continues the song in question, to her consternation with both eyes firmly closed as the safe of the scientist normally would be. Minimal is the movement of the lips, evident the markings of tension in his solidified complexion. The shiver, the warm descent of a feather's tip from her nape drives her curiosity to delve, to stare, to scan. And yet, despite the full focus losing itself in the slow swirling of the fluffy and sunny cloud, she can never truly reach the red core of the spiral nor hear any thoughts. Drowning in a droplet, sudden contraction comes to her body. Desiring to embrace herself, clamping arms and legs together as if needing to drive away snow, the emptiness around her person.

…However, the quietness which surrounds young Yashiro elicits a ring in her ears, obscuring everything else in the overwhelming pull which forces fingers to trace from the wrists to the shoulders, to rest upon her neck.

The lone image that comes up, the trail of smoke and fire that loses itself in the skyline amidst the silence is enough to reverse the motions she was about to make, sending the yawn back the way it came. Even a single shard collapsing from a heart is more than enough to eclipse any and all blasts of engines, as the inner silence which with it comes silences more than the external sounds and sensations of the moment.

"T-Takeru-san?" Young Yashiro asks amidst a small cough, grasping an iron bar and shaking. Not because of the coldness of the material, you'd understand.

The soldier halts his singing, opening a single eye as he barely raises his face. Relenting a smile as he takes a deep breath, both legs curl up before he propels himself off the resting place of the cell. "Hey, Kasumi. Good morning," he nods at her while rolling up an arm as he approaches the barrier separating them.

"…Good morning," she stares, brows almost bumping as the colors in his aura suddenly swirl and become cerulean, calm and at ease yet still showing no thoughts to her ears. "Um, are you feeling well today?"

"Yeah. Save for the shower, you know," he shrugs, giving a wry smile. "So, can you open the door?"

She slowly nods, not lifting her eyes from him as she unlocks the cell and allows him to exit. After closing it again, turning to see how he's stretching both arms upwards, young Yashiro steps closer. "Takeru-san, what were you singing about?"

"Hm? Oh, uh…" he looks up, scratching the back of his head, "nothing, just a song from an anime. Let's be on our way, the XO won't like to be left waiting for too long," he states, starting to direct himself towards the exit.

She paces by his side, saying nothing for some moments, hands joining as she stares yet finds no sounds. "Um, Takeru-san?" He hums, looking her way. "What was the song about? Your aura was… a bit odd to the eye."

Slowly blinking while returning her stare, it takes him a second before he pets her head, playing with the strands of hair, tickling her forehead. "Don't worry about it, okay?" He asks as a sigh escapes along the words.

The collapse of the voice, the switch to a midnight blue hue in his aura rivets nails into young Yashiro's breathing, as if the Mjolnir was employed to fasten them into her slim abdomen.

"Not like I could ever discuss these things with Kasumi of all people," his mind's voice echoes, furthering the piledrive which assails her lungs. Along a dim image, distorted, cut and scratched. Nothing but a slim figure raising a hand towards hers, or his, face. Nothing but the brunt of tackling an iceberg, the hull bruised and bleeding ice inwards.

"That's not true, you can speak of anything with me," she counters, half a step closer to his person, arms almost touching.

"Come on, now," he shrugs, gradually releasing the last strand of hair his fingers had captured. "You know there's stuff I… can't really discuss with anyone." He then sighs, arms seeking the cover of both pockets, the sole of his boots remaining in contact with the floor for a few seconds more than necessary with each successive step. "No one would really understand, and speaking of this shit would be enough to get me into more trouble anyways…"

"I am your friend," she asserts with a few flaps of her ears, as if attempting to take off the floor. "Even if some matters are secrets you cannot divulge, you can place your trust in me."

"Uhh… You're truly is too good for this world, little bun," he whimpers within, relaxing into a small yet honest smile.

Which causes slight redness to come into young Yashiro's cheeks, the interlocking of her fingers enforced further. "Takeru-san, don't say that. It's embarrassing…"

"Huh? Wait a second… Kasumi?"

"Yes?"

"Are we… talking?"

"Of course we are? Why are you asking?"

"I mean, look at my mouth… It ain't moving, right?"

"Eh? Ah, you're- Wait…"

"Were you reading my mind just now?" He slowly asks, stopping his steps.

"N-No, that wasn't… I didn't notice at all. My apologies," she tries and bow, he chuckles lightly and waves off the gesture with a small smile. "But I… I can rarely establish such close communication with another's mind…" she wonders, brows narrowing, the warm fall of raindrops on her nape continues, the lingering thread of the fluffy cloud still surrounding her person. "Can you hear me, Takeru-san?"

"Yeah, loud and clear," he nods, folding his arms. "I didn't know you could do telepathy."

"I can't. It usually hurts a lot to try and link my mind with others with this clarity," she admits with a sigh, shoulders falling a tiny bit. "Scanning minds isn't truly easier than actually talking, you know."

"Yeah, I know. It's still a bit surprising, though."

"What is?"

"That I keep learning new things about you," he chuckles, his aura brightening slightly. "I thought I knew all about your little tricks, and now we can have mind chats too."

"Um… Do you dislike this, perhaps?"

Patting her head again, he shakes his head. "Nah, it's just a surprise that you could pull this off."

"I don't really know why this is happening, I am not doing this on purpose," she affirms with a nod, a flap of the bunny ears.

"For real? Oh, is this due to that… psychic link phenomenon? The synchrony stuff?"

"Yes, I think… I never really managed to trigger and maintain said ability, so I do not know if this is how it should feel, but it is the most logical explanation."

"Does it hurt you?" He asks, again petting her head in kindness.

She shakes it slowly, leaning into the comfort. "No, which is odd. I usually must focus much to establish a link, and sharing sounds and images is rather taxing as well."

"I see… Anyways, think you can stop it?"

"Um…" she closes her eyes, inhales slowly, focuses on the small, minute pokes in the back of her head. The sensation resembles a full headpat, and there is no thread to cut, to knot to untie, no current to block. Taking some steps back to leave his aura's immediate surroundings does little to nothing, so young Yashiro relents a sigh. "No, I cannot. It's… simply there, your presence."

"Sigh… Well, let's try to not let it impair our work today. Simply tune me out, and don't listen into my thoughts, okay?"

"Yes, but… if you need to talk, all you need to do is ask," she insists, again flapping her ears like a small pigeon which fell into a lake.

He smiles, once more petting her head. "Thanks, Kasumi. But some stuff… You already saw a few as you tried to wake me up, this ain't your burden to carry. I don't mind you trying to talk with me through this link we now have, but don't look too deeply, okay? You already know… well, what disasters lurk in my mind."

"However-"

"And we already lost enough time," he pokes her nose, smirking a bit. "So let's get going before the XO starts looking for us herself."

She nods, he smiles. Yet, as they once more walk to the exit, as she informs him of the time they have left before the retinue arrives, as the elevator descends and the beeping of her communicator interrupts the explanation with a rather bothered voice demanding answers from the other side of the line, young Yashiro's eyes do not lift the downcast posture, the lingering gaze upon the fluffy clouds that were branded in blue. Upon the delayed gestures, the smile that refused to fully open, her own movements imitate the lack of gusto.

"…Why would you still try to bottle everything up, Takeru-san? You were clearly in so much pain in that forest, by the hill too. Just like the Professor… always remaining silent…"

Around an hour and half later.

(Meeting room.)

Clicking noises fill the place, a sizzling image flashes through the large TV screen brought into the place. As large as the stock explosions from the game are the gaping expressions of the suits from the retinue.

"May I ask why would you employ such sharp evasive techniques?" Chairman Daikuuji inquires, threading his slim beard a few times over while admiring the spectacle.

"Easier to gain a vantage point," he answers, lips slightly pursing as his base Kaizer proceeds to slice off a few Strugglers in half, rapid fire sending the few Colossus into a frenzied escape. "By moving in such patterns, I can throw off the radars and auto-aim systems. Then, if the pilot cannot locate me, they're as good as neutralized."

As if to prove his point, his Kaizer dives into the stream of volleys. Facing the pray of the spray, a small smile raises in him. Jumping high, sword set alight far more than the thrusters, a sharp pressure onto the controller causes the Kaizer to shine in blue, to unleash its Break Skill. Blasting through the aggressors like a cannon ball, his air jousting maneuver skewers a few of them. Little but cry and vanish amidst the pixel clouds can they do as the hammer falls.

"Phew…" he circles his wrists as the golden glimmer appears in the screen. "And as you can see, even such line-piercing maneuvers can be taught through the software."

"Hmm… Indeed, it is a most surprising training method," the Chairman notes, relenting a small smile. "Still, it is rather concerning, the application of such a doctrine. The adaptation might not be as smooth as you would claim, cadet."

"Actually," the scientist interjects, returning the small smile, a few thorns in the stare, "there is no need for such concerns, Chairman. Allow me to show you," she quickly types something into her terminal, another recording starts being played in the other monitor as the soldier mutes the TV he was using.

In the new display, footage of some of his trainings started to be shown to the group, some of them already losing grip on the masks of their complexions. And if such a reaction was born when witnessing the failed mock battle between him and his other two squadmates, further did the walls bend as the training he took after regaining consciousness began to play. Low movements, hushed whispers soon follow, as well as narrowed yet puzzled stares towards the unassuming soldier.

"By the by," the scientist whispers, leaning closer to him, "Takeru, why did you employ such moves during that training?"

"Just testing my endurance after waking up, XO. Nothing more," he simply says, taking a step away from her, not meeting her eyes.

Grasping her chin, she edges closer again. "So is this your best performance?"

He again slightly turns away, giving a sharp nod. "Indeed, that is correct, XO, ma'am."

"Excuse me, XO?" The Chairman asks for her attention, coughing softly.

Dulling the cross her brows desired to engage in, she brushes her hair as she faces the retinue one again. "What is it?"

"Ahem… Regarding the footage provided, why would the cadet be partaking in such courses? I did not believe Sgt Jinguuji to favor this kind of practices," he nods, never losing the small welcoming smile.

"Cadet Shirogane's own piloting quirks are what gave birth to both these programs and the maneuvers shown in his training. Due to coming from another base, it is expected some of his tendencies do not align with ours. Shirogane, if you would," she looks back at her soldier, receiving a short nod and the indifference of the silence as the answer.

He steps forward without making eye contact, clearing his throat and standing in attention again, while she simply folds her arms, stares into his neutral facade while her eyelids slightly narrow. He once more begins to explain the reasoning behind his piloting, sharing opinions with the team from Daikuuji Corp on the impact his methods have on the craft as the suits procure notepads and begin to scribble at mach speeds which would leave their TSFs jealous, the soldier apologizes internally to two of the members of the retinue, that he already had a similar meeting with back in his world, before regaining himself. As he navigates the inquiries while never losing his tone or momentum, never leaving a dead trail lingering in the air with the use of some eccentric words on his end to spark further inquiries and interest into the little sims and his own piloting quirks, Chairman Daikuuji remains staring at the soldier while twirling and caressing his beard.

While the words and explanations were as satisfying as the rumbling of a successful launch, the admiration towards a beautiful and bright ignition, what spurred a gleam in his sight, full focus onto the soldier's features was not due to what he was in the middle of explaining about his rather reckless aerial charges.

There was a certain lack of air, of distance between the dark of his jacket and the white of her lab coat. Even before, as the meeting started, the Chairman noticed the lack of delay in the soldier's movements, the minute gazes which she shared with him only to be followed by the actions, no words required. The simple presence of the cadet was already cause of befuddlement, the shift in the displays as the scientist proceeded to present the little machines and her other announcements would indicate the cadet was more than familiar with what he was doing. If not for his stoic gaze, for the unfaltering stance and wording he employs amidst the stream of inquiries and curious counterquestions, the Chairman would have believed it all to be mere coincidence.

He cannot help but to remain smiling and relent a nod as the soldier finishes tending to the retinue's curiosity. "The explanation was greatly appreciated, cadet. I admit, of all the programs you've showcased thus far, this Valgern-On software would seem to possess great promise. However, we will review the available documentation first before giving our final answer. XO, I assume the HC is already on board with the decision?"

She nods, brushing her bangs. "Yes, the HC would favor having a clear deal at the ready before the official announcement. Thus, I would welcome a rapid answer, if at all possible. Shirogane, Yashiro," she didn't finish the words that both were already on the way to deliver the folders with the respective papers, eliciting a simple but pleased smile in her. As she nods back at them, they each return a customary gesture. The impregnable mask in his features dull her own, sight lingering on him as he walks past her to stand in attention once more. "Ahem… Shirogane, could you proceed to present the next topic?" She requests, staring.

And receiving another nod, another frozen expression hewn into his face. "Yes, ma'am. Well, if I may have your attention… Now then, as I've already explained, my own frustrations with the shock countermeasures is what drove me towards my current eccentric form of piloting. However, XO Kouzuki took an interest in said patterns and ideas," he says, giving her a minute bow, "which then spawned another project to try and adapt said maneuvers into a formal doctrine. Allow me to present to you," he gives a court bow with a large and dramatic sway of a hand, smiling a bit as young Yashiro forwards the correct images to the display behind him, "a new operating system for our TSFs, the XM3."

Skepticism is thawed, melted into shock and whatever comes afterwards as his words and the graphs that Yashiro forwards. The nods and the mini smirk the scientist gives with a small tilt of her head, playing with her hair is enough to affirm the intel provided. One could equal the current expressions of most of the retinue as kitties falling upon the booming roar of thunders.

Except for the Chairman that, despite never losing his smile, never letting ripples bring blight to his lake, is now resting a hand under his chin. "It is most gracious of you to present such intel, XO. However, one could say it is almost to good to be true, haha. Certainly, there is a catch involved?"

"Oh, no, there is none, Chairman," she affirms, the devil surfacing, the little horns shining below her strands of hair. "I do comprehend your reticence to accept the veracity of the given explanation, however if it is clear results you'd be desiring to be presented with…" the smile enlarges, her eyes sharpen, merely the tip of the iceberg indulging in the threat, in the minute shiver of most guests in the room, "I would be more than willing to give you a live show."

"Is that so?" The Chairman nods, clamping his lips not to laugh. Instead he merely limits himself to sigh from his nose and rest his weight onto the cushioning of the seat. It had been, after all, many, many moons since he had seen such cheer in the scientist's eyes. "Would the Valkyries be at the ready to present us the boons of the OS?"

"That will come too, in due time. For the moment, you'll have to be satisfied with Shirogane's display," she ascertains with a strong nod.

And causes the mask to crack, the soldier's brows to interject. "…Huh? Me?"

"Hm? What? You've a mock battle scheduled for the morning training, don't you? Your Gekishin has been outfitted with the XM3 to serve as a demonstrator of what one could expect of a cadet learning under the new OS should resemble. Didn't I tell you?" She says, dripping a few droplets of acid, as she looks away and ruffles her hair. Only to lightly chuckle at the small sigh he releases, the relaxation into gestures she is used to seeing.

"Understood. I shall try my best, XO, ma'am," he salutes, giving a firm nod. Which bolts equal seriousness into her features, a momentary narrowing of her eyes and lips.

The retinue begins to inquire about the matters spawning the decision to have the soldier as the demonstrator, and she deflects the questions with enough ease. Giving a nod to her soldier, she waves and dismisses him. With one slow and court bow towards the guests, he turns around and aims for the door.

"Excuse me, cadet," until the Chairman calls for him, approaching the soldier with slow steps.

"Yes, Chairman?" He asks, stopping and standing in attention.

The old man pulls and straightens his dark suit, slowly as his tone are his steps. Giving the soldier a good once over, he smiles up at the poker face. "It has been most surprising, the news you've delivered. Could we expect a similar performance to come in this training?"

"I shall try not to disappoint, sir," he affirms, giving a nod.

"Is that so? I know it might be out of place however, have you considered pursuing a career as a test pilot?"

"…Sadly, while that avenue has been suggested to me already," his sight veers towards the scientist, that is again indulging, reveling in the incredulity soon to be smashed to pieces, "my place is in this base, sir," he states, returning the gaze and another nod, tightening his hands.

As opposed to his expectations, the Chairman smiles and returns the nod. "I see… Frankly, this answer is also good to hear, cadet. It is a blessing to see a fresh cadet holding onto such composure during a meeting such as this one, to show such grit while being under the direct orders of the XO." It truly is a blessing, to see someone who can stand behind her in such tranquility, he relents within, again fiddling with his beard.

Yet, the soldier's expression tightens slightly, looking down. "I am merely following orders, sir."

"Still, one would be remiss not to acknowledge the value of your presentation, regardless of the circumstances that have removed your name from the simulator's documents. Certain I am you will… prove to be a valuable ally for the XO."

"…XO Kouzuki does not indulge in charity, this is nothing but the expected results I have to deliver after all the setbacks my presence has given her. Otherwise," grimacing slightly, coughing, he returns his hands to the seams, stillness to both breathing and features, "the moment I am no longer usefulshe'll discard this useless jester away,"he concludes, looking back at her for a moment before shaking his head. "After all, she did say she'd only aid me 'so long as I help her'," he repines inside, foolishly blinding himself once again. "There is no way Yuuko would truly allow herself to show such emotion as she did yesterday, she's just manipulating me into opening up to her by pulling at my strings, knowing what another her meant for me. Not that she could really understand… how I felt at the end of it all… how it felt to feel you vanishing from my hold."

"I see, I concur your situation is rather delicate," the man gives a nod, yet remains smiling. "By the by cadet Shirogane, do you favor card games?"

"Huh? I mean, yes, some of them I do. Why do you ask, sir?"

"Oh, it's merely that I found your words slightly concerning, you see," he looks back, back at the chuckles of the scientist in the midst of a debate, allowing a sigh to finally escape yet never losing the smile. "You see cadet, the jester is usually it is seen as a worthless card in most games."

"…What? Oh, you mean how it isn't allowed in some games?" He asks, raising a brow at the unexpected curve ball.

"Indeed, that is one motive. Even when it isn't exiled from the deck it could be employed as a penalty in many games. In a way, the jester is made to suffer the brunt of the punishments, branded as a card of ill omen," he says, low, before turning to face the soldier once again. This time, his features light up as he takes a singular step closer, leaving the docility of the smile, brandishing the inner edge of a blade in the stare. "However, there are other games in which the jester is allowed to reside in the deck alongside all the other cards in equal footing, and then it is that the its true strength shines through. As the figure who is always joking besides the king, no one pays much mind to the joker. Almost as if it were an ornament, a piece of furniture in the background. And it is why no one can ascertain the joker's true strength, why the joker can seize up all other members of the court and speak truths others wouldn't dare to bring to the king's attention."

"Huh… So you're referring to how the joker can be used as a sort of wildcard?" He asks, lost as a penguin in a desert regarding the seriousness, the firmness of the Chairman's stance and the dissonance it has with the rather silly discussion they're having.

The man forwards a few nods, once more grasping his beard and lowering his shoulders. "That's right, the jester has the ability of adapting itself to the hand you require, becoming the key piece to ending the game in victory. I believe this gives the otherwise punished jester an unparalleled power, for it can be a knight or an ace in the hole... or even a king itself in disguise," he says, somber, smirking and showing his fake, pristine white teeth back at the soldier. "Thus, the value of the jester is not in what others see in it or how it's usually treated, but in how skillfully its wielder can play it, for even a punished jester can be used as efficient bait."

"I see…"

"Thus, even if your situation does prove to be perilous indeed, do not lose spirit, cadet Shirogane. You've shown to be able to deliver satisfactory results, after all. I for one am looking forward to hearing about any new ideas you might forward in the future," he smiles and nods, offering a hand to the soldier.

Who takes it and returns a firm handshake, a clear nod. "Thank you, sir. Your words are appreciated."

Yet, as he tries to pull away the Chairman does not end the lock of their hands. Smirking once more, letting small embers reside in his eyes. "I also am looking forward to seeing what kind of jester he turns out to be for the XO, cadet," he whispers, the unblinking stare, the blight in between words enough to spur contraction in the soldier's features. "In any case, I've held you long enough. Best of luck in your training, cadet. We'll be watching you, with great interest."

"…Thank you, sir," he salutes, before slowly turning around and leaving the room, before blasting away down the hallway.

Sitting back, the Chairman douses the inquiries that upon the scientist fall with a wave, smiling at her and young Yashiro, who hides behind the lab coat. "Now then, if I might ask, the Gekishin unit the cadet will be piloting during this training wouldn't happen to be outfitted with the parts you've spoke about before?" He asks, gasps and gaping ensuing in the members of his retinue.

The chuckles from the scientist only enlarge the already comedic shock they were displaying. "My, was it that obvious, Chairman?"

"Haha, you wouldn't allow such a tantalizing opportunity to deliver a royal flush pass you by, XO."

"Well, what can I say? In the meantime, allow me to present to you the project to refurbish some parts of the Gekishin to new standards. Yashiro," she orders, the assistant hurries to her keyboard.

The demolishing performance of a black Gekishin facing off against many others amidst the ruins of the city at night, the testings of the Blood squadron, the drills of the Valkyries thus far, and some meager intel on the expected performance of the new parts devised are forwarded, kitties and thunders all over again.

"…So as you can see, the cadet's training will be both serve as a test for the new Gekishin parts and the XM3. As I've shown you, the XM3 does require certain parts from my own research which is why I am asking for your cooperation in these deals."

"It is understandable," the Chairman relents, nodding as he watches the movements of the dark knight before the Gekishin engages into an Albright Turn. "Of course, we'd be overjoyed to nurture the partnership we've established with Alt IV, XO. However," entwining his fingers, resting his chin onto them, he smiles, "the progress presented isn't decisive enough to warrant a shift to a new OS, much less for us to become the backers of the proposition."

"Well, that much is true," she says, returning the smirk while placing a hand on her waist, looking back at young Yashiro. "Then, allow me to show you a glimpse of what could truly be achieved should you support my proposition."

Replacing the footage of the prior fights, a new setting zooms into the screens. Once more it is nighttime, yet the frames shown leave everyone, even the Chairman, lacking sounds and air for a moment. The valiant yellow trades paint with the walls in an attempt to escape from the savage assault of the midnight blue, slashes that meet, windows that collapse, buildings that are hollowed. It always ends the same, with a struggle of Takamura's Takemikazuchi against the Kagerou of the soldier, almost evenly matched.

"So as you can see," she says with a grand gesture, raising her chin and chest, a smirking devil drowning chuckles, "with the right upgrades, even a base Kagerou could face off against a Type-00."

"XO Kouzuki, this is no jesting, is it?" The Chairman asks, blinking quickly as the Kagerou took reign over the skies, trying to skewer the golden plating from behind in an almost perfect maneuver.

"Of course it is, you should already know not to cast doubt to my statements, Chairman," she asserts, still smirking. Upon the call, young Yashiro goes and delivers the folders with the Kagerou's modified parts' intel. The scientist nods to her assistant, pacing in front of the rather large desk in the place. "Again, if left to my decision, I'd rather have Daikuuji Corp be who manufactures both the sims and the new parts for the Gekishin and Kagerou. The official meeting will be held on the twelfth of the current month, so I admit there is little time left for you to reach a decision. I would like to extend an invitation to the meeting as well, should you welcome this proposition."

A beeping echoes, Yashiro notifies the cadets are already on their respective positions to begin their mock battle. The scientist allows the guests to finish their drinks and rearrange their papers, notebooks, and pens, sharing a smile with the Chairman.

"Well, why don't we simply let actions do the talking for some minutes?" She suggests, walking away from the screens as Yashiro sends the correct feedback into each TV.

Sadly for the scientist, she just overshot the duration of the mock battle by several orders of magnitude, you'd understand.

Around two hours later.

(Yuuko's Office.)

[Yuuko]

"So such performance is commonplace for the cadet, huh," Chairman Daikuuji nods, still threading his beard as his features lower and lower.

"Impressive, isn't it," so I chuckle back. "I believe it is quite fair to affirm that if a single cadet could overpower its comrades in such manner through the XM3 despite the technological gap between a Gekishin and a Fubuki, the elites and veterans will undoubtedly pay back gracious dividends in the battlefield under this OS."

…Still, way to break the stage, Takeru. I told you to best your squadmates, not to ravage their composure, for fuck's sake. I do admit, the silent admiration of the retinue was fun to see, yes, but I think I'm gonna need to tone down your 'best efforts' from now on. I don't need Marimo sending me double digit calls every time I require you to provide a show of might, thank you very much. I know you said you desired to force your squad to improve further by showing your full skill under the XM3, but there is a difference between winning in moderation and an unadulterated massacre.

…Guess I should have seen that coming from the leader of the feared ghosts of the Empire. Neither mercy nor justice for the wicked, right Captain Takeru?

Doing a short spin and finishing my coffee, biting onto a muffin afterwards, I smirk towards him as I lean and rest onto the desk. "While Shirogane's tactics are not what one would normally expect, I believe that the results he is providing us with under the Reaper's harshest course yet are proof enough of the worth his ideas possess."

"I am not objecting to it in any way, Yuuko-kun," he lightly laughs, waving a hand about. "I would appreciate it if you ceased to try and send the jaws of my fellows to the floor with each and every presentation you hoist."

"Oh, but where's the fun in that? If I'm not cause of shock, then I'm doing something wrong. And… You do deserve the show of might, after all that has happened in this year. The support you've shown to Alt IV amidst the pressure will be repaid tenfold, I assure you of that."

"Don't, it is unnecessary," he sighs while waving a single finger, shaking his head, complexion dulling. "You've endured much on your own, more so with whatever was stymieing your research. I'm merely playing my part to support the project from my position, nothing else. Although, I shall relent that I am quite flabbergasted at this new pawn you've acquired," he takes a slow sip, holding her gaze from beyond the rim. "Who would have said you'd favor such offensive methodologies, Yuuko-kun?"

"…Sometimes, the threat of aggression is more effective than violence itself. If Shirogane trouncing all obstacles I throw his way serves as a deterrent and a pillar upon which to base my developments, I see no issues with granting him the approval to continue to pilot as he does."

"I see… Haha, I admit the cadet was an unexpected but welcome surprise. However, those new weapons were, how to say it… quite unorthodox," he admits, a cloth wiping the side of his forehead. "I never thought I'd read the phrase 'chainsaw-gun' and see it actually work…"

"Well, Shirogane is kind of crazy, to be honest," I chuckle, spinning slowly, giving small bites to the sweetness of the muffin. "The weapons do require some revisions, and while he insisted on the idea of the gun I believe there might be a better usage for the vial system he came up with. Would you be interested in forwarding a bid for the rights of either the weapons, the sims, or the Shin Kagerou project?"

"Haha, if it were only up to me, I would try and aim to hoard all which you've presented today," he smiles, finishing his coffee. "I will admit, with our current manpower, I can only aid you with the XM3's processing units, the new simulators, and some of the simpler weapons designs," nodding back and staring, he holds my gaze.

So I return a nod, a smile. "That is plenty enough, Chairman. Your support is much appreciated."

"Please, Yuuko-kun. There is no need for such formality."

"Oh, really? Well, anyways, things are going to start getting interesting from now on. It's nice to have you on board with the plans, Daikuuji-san."

"Haha, every time you proclaim anything with such impulse, lighting up your eyes in ignition, most complex situations end up befalling me… So," he clears his throat, crossing both legs and arms, gulping slowly and drying his mouth while leaving a cloak of silence lingering for a few moments, a few seconds, "I assume your project is ready to start its final phase?"

"Well, what do you think?" I smile, playing with my hair.

"Oh dear, this explains the gusto you've shown during the meeting," he laughs weakly. "Were the negotiations for the XG line successful?"

Shrugging, I shake my head as I go for another spin. "Of course not, they refused for the umpteenth time. This little test with the cadet was but a prelude to see if he could achieve a decent performance to convince others of the XM3's prowess. I'd like to believe America won't remain in opposition after an honest showing from my end, but I am not as naive as to simply hope for the best. So, any news about your project?"

Hunching over as he leans back into the sofa, his eyes gradually close, markings claiming his forehead as he shakes his head. "No, we've obtained no progress on the G-Sun. The attempts of the R&D team to enhance the chipsets you handed us have been met with failure."

"How large a failure are we speaking of?"

"They can't manage to start up either of the three units," he relents with a heavy and short sigh, folding the cloth after wiping his lips. "Perhaps, the XM3 and your new core design could allow us to bypass the taxing system requirements to operate the machines."

"It will be our backup plan if the negotiations break down again," I sigh, emptiness in my stomach. "I suppose I can count on your support to contact Lockweed so that they begin to lobby for the proposition to be accepted?"

"I will do what I can within my boundaries," he returns a firm nod.

"…Also, do you think we could obtain even a single unit of the produced Rapiers along the XGs?" I ask, leaning forward.

He blinks in quick succession, slightly moving backwards, readjusting his posture. "Why would you desire that, Yuuko-kun? Those TSFs are untested prototypes, and outdated by current standards."

"Well, that might be so, but they do have a few nice tricks built into their frames, if my intel isn't mistaken. Do you think we can gain the agreement?"

He groans, hiding his lips as he looks down. "It would be… arduous to gain both lines from the Hi-MAERF Project. If they would welcome the notion, I sincerely doubt they'd bestow you with more than a pair of Rapiers," he admits, posture falling down.

That is plentiful enough, I only have two pilots in mind to be in charge of the XF-108. And if Takeru thought it important enough to bring to my attention, it's worth a shot. We already have the negative so inquiring and showing interest in the Rapier is but a small matter that just maybe might play in my favor.

"In any case, it is good to see you in proper form once again, Yuuko-kun," he says, again smiling. "Perhaps, procuring yourself a new assistant has aided your spirits?"

"Huh? Oh, well, Shirogane is nothing but another pawn. A useful piece, is all," I affirm, holding his gaze, narrowing mine into his.

Yet there is no constriction, no hesitation as he once more laughs. "There is no need for you to raise thorns in defense. I am merely surprised that you'd bestow such leeway to a mere cadet, to allow him to stand so close to your person."

"I am merely ensuring he does not cause further issues, that's all. Shirogane is but another grunt, a promising one yes, but nothing but a pawn at the end of the day."

"…Is that so?" Once more interlocking his fingers, a thin smile, a firm stare he forwards as silence lingers for a second. "I believe the roughness in his eyes, the stoic demeanor he can endow in while in your presence is proof enough that… this new cadet is more than he appears to be at first glance. It is also odd that you'd give him credit over these developments, when there was nothing stopping you from coercing the lowly cadet into relinquishing his spoils to Alt IV."

"…I'm merely keeping our relation in mind, it does me no good to gain the animosity of a future subordinate. There is no need for a leader to impose such restrictions onto its followers, one must be gracious while at the peak. Is that what you've taught me all those years ago?" I rest my chin onto a hand, smirking back.

"Oh, yes, indeed I did," he returns another small chuckle, quickly clouding over his features as a finger courses through his beard. "It is still surprising to see. One would expect the fabled XO Kouzuki to show no second chances to anyone, much less to keep the problem person so close to herself…" Eyes narrow as I hold my breath, arms folding. He again chuckles, not lifting the cheer back to his face. "I won't divulge the presence of the cadet nor will I inquire any more into his situation. However, I'd be remiss not to warn you. The other side will strike back at your project in an attempt to halt your victory, sooner or later. Leaving loose ends and open wounds for them to prey upon is unwise."

"Thanks for the forewarning, Chairman. But rest assured, Shirogane won't become a cause of concern."

"I see… Were you planning to discard the jester once his uses run out?"

"…Pardon?"

He dares, dares to chuckle. "Oh, you see, the cadet seemed rather… reticent to welcome the notion of his prolonged stay in the base as I gave some parting words to him. He described himself as a 'useless jester' as far as your plans are concerned, Yuuko-kun." He coughs, sobriety returning to his features, clear as a lake or the sky as of now. "I know not what arrangement nor plans you have in wait for the cadet, however certainly some concise show of support would be welcomed? I admit, it would be most regretful to see such a promising mind caught in the middle of the warring factions of the Alt Plans."

"…Excuse me, he called himself as a… A useless jester, you say?"

What the actual fucking hell? What does that even mean? I… I was more than clear already to you, wasn't I? No, could this be some sort of pouty act on his end? Did… my kiss upset him to such lengths? Why?! I… thought we were on the same page, desiring the aid and support of the other?

…And after seeing his repeated, and slightly pathetic, attempts at reaching me in Sendai. Seriously, I never thought I'd be saying this but how glad I am he knows when to end his arguments. To almost start a fight with the guards in the complex… all to give me some pie Kyozuka-san made, another drawing from Yashiro, a letter from Marimo…

I cannot fully recall everything, it's all just bits and pieces, fuzzy and distorted. But his attitude was like that one night when he forced me back into my room. Dealing with that on a daily basis… Sigh… I suppose, Takeru does deserve more credit than I usually give him. Not exactly much, mind you, but still.

"I don't desire to delve deeper than I should, however, if you require a place to send the cadet to if his position in the base places you in a compromising position, I could-"

"Shirogane will be staying here, Chairman. He might be… a bit more trouble than he's worth, but I am certain that he'll pay back the chips placed on his back tenfold."

"Oho… It is odd, to see you ascertain such a thing with a resounding a tone," he says, holding my stare, undisturbed. "I suppose, you desire to hold onto your current hand?"

"Indeed. The cadet won't be cause of distress to my project, I assure you of that," I state, returning the gaze fully.

"…I see, that is reassuring to hear."

"Hm? Why? Do you… have some motive to desire Shirogane to remain here?" I lean forward, frosting my own tone. I did not think the Chairman could be related to Takeru in any way, however…

"Oh, no, nothing of the sort," he again laughs, finally relaxing and going for another sip. "I'm merely relieved to see you've found someone you'd welcome to stand besides you, even if it is only a mere pawn."

"Wh- Chairman, Shirogane is nothing but a cadet. While he has provided decent results thus far, he is nothing but another pawn in the large scheme of things," I affirm, giving a light slap on a pile of papers.

"That might be so, but it is has been arduous for you to find personnel that would work in your shadow with such efficiency," he remains smiling, finishing his drink. "In any case, so long as you forward a convincing enough appeal, my fellows should be able to work their expertise to allowing the XGs to finally stop collecting dust." He stands, sighs, and once more gives a nod my way. "I trust that this XM3 you've produced will show spectacular results during this coming meeting, so I shall endeavor to bring good news to you soon after."

"That will be much appreciated… after all, this vital piece reached completion in part due to the final exploits of 2nd Lt Daikuuji in her last sortie."

"Yuuko-kun, you need not tell me anything," he winces, waving a hand, shaking his head with even more apathy. "Ayu chose to lead her own life, to live alongside those she considered her fellows and conquer her own battlefield until the final curtain fell, I'm certain. While many words shall forever remain unspoken in my chest now that she departed earlier than me, if your project bears fruit then… then that is all that I could ever ask of you, not as the Chairman but as a father."

"…I will deliver, Chairman Daikuuji," I nod firmly, holding his gaze, a hand outwards. We share a handshake, he barely regains the prior smile.

"If and when the XGs arrive, my fellows are at your disposal, XO," he affirms, back to business once the handshake ends. Coughing and straightening his suit, he once more nods back. "And if you ever desire to attain a few more bottles of quality alcohol, please don't hesitate to call."

"Ha, I might be contacting you sooner than I thought then," I return the chuckling as I press the button and unlock the door.

"I see, I shall be readying myself in that case. Regardless, this visit has been a most welcome surprise, XO. I certainly hope the coming meeting measures favorably against today."

"Oh, believe me, it will."

"Haha… You truly do enjoy flaunting your advantages whenever you can, Yuuko-kun… Still, I shall be looking forward to what you've brewing," he says as he gives a small nod, starting to walk towards the exit, "as well as for what you have planned for this special cadet."

"I said, he's nothing but-"

"Nothing but a jester," he looks back, smirking. "A card you've chosen to keep close to your grip. While I won't divulge anything, I advise you to keep the boy under watch, so that the card doesn't get… confiscated away."

"…What are we speaking about here?"

"Oh, nothing much. I merely hope this one jester does bring auspicious boons to you," he sighs, relaxing his shoulders, giving me a small, honest smile. "I am not blind, Yuuko-kun. Your shortage of reports, these new developments, the brand new OS, it all started near the end of October. A birdie told me that could be when he arrived to the base. So, in all honesty, I simply wish this unexpected ally is able to remain by you. It has been indeed long since I've seen you smile in such shimmering cheer, after all."

"…I'm merely glad I can progress in my research, Chairman. Shirogane has little to nothing to do with that," I say, ruffling my hair, looking away.

"And yet, you allow him to present his own arguments during a crucial meeting," he again smiles, chuckling lightly. "People will notice, Yuuko-kun. Inquiries might even be coming as we speak, if the HC is aware of his involvement in the little simulator's development. You've lost much, and there is little more than I can do in support for the project… So do keep this card close to you, even if you aim to sacrifice it at the most appropriate moment. The cadet is truly a goldmine for you, and even if his eccentric maneuvers do seem hard to replicate, such a champion is what the STF so desperately required. I assume, the Rapiers you desire to acquire are for the boy to pilot?"

"Sigh… I can't truly hide anything from you, huh."

"Haha, one of the advantages I have as your old professor," he nods, lightly hitting his chest. "Thus is why I insist," once more clouding his features, nodding and drilling his gaze into mine, "use this jester to its maximum efficiency. And if there is a… forced play coming towards your plans, do not hesitate to discard it for the benefit of your end board."

"…I see. Is something looming behind the horizon, then?"

"Well, I suppose you've heard of both issues. Of the troublesome sushi bar and the random visitors to settlements beyond the defense lines… We have been hard pressed for spare parts on both ends, and my inquiries met with," he grimaces, scoffing and fuming a prominence, "unpleasant ends. I am glad to see you've procured a fine tool at this stage, I only can dare to hope you need not discard him too early in your plans," he affirms, nodding in dejection, everything in him collapsing. "It truly is good to see someone willing to remain by you in such composure, after all."

"I see. I shall see to these… issues that are arising, do not worry. And as far as Shirogane is concerned, a jester he might be but you should know wildcards are not to be underestimated in the right hands."

"Haha, truly I do. Well then, I shall be taking my leave here, since my fellows should be done with their little tour in Hangar 90 by now. Until the twelfth, XO Kouzuki."

"Until then, Chairman. And worry not, the trial run will be truly an interesting event to witness," I affirm with a smirk, and we both chuckle for a moment before he departs.