Chapter 4: The World Order

November 15, 2001

Anchorage Alaska

Yuuya sat bent over on a bench, his lips slightly parted in a smile at a photo in his hand. All the members of Argos Test Flight, his comrades in arms and friends, all posing for a farewell photo. Yuuya sighed and leaned back, stuffing the picture inside his coat. Reassigned huh? I'm going to japan, to my father's homeland. Are you there right now, Yui? Yuuya remembered the last time he talked to her. After the RLF attack and the shelving of the XFJ Program, she gave him her katana. Yuuya snorted and shook his head. Whatever god was out there must enjoy messing with him. Of course, he wouldn't say he was against going to Japan. But it was only thanks to his time with Yui that he had come to terms with his heritage. Then, after all that, he was being shipped off to Japan? "You gotta be shitting me," Yuuya muttered.

"1st Lieutenant Yuuya Bridges, I assume?"

Yuuya turned his head and immediately got up and saluted the officer before him. The officer saluted the young man and nodded, "at ease, soldier; I am Major Alfred Walken, 66th Tactical 'Hunter' Armored Battalion."

"I assume that means you're my new CO, Sir," Yuuya smiled ruefully.

Alfred sighed, "so it would seem, have you been briefed on your transfer?" Alfred stepped aside, motioning Yuuya to follow.

Yuuya hauled his duffle bag over his shoulder and followed behind. "If by briefed you mean handed my transfer papers, pointed south, and given a smack in the ass on the way out. Then I'd say I'm well briefed."

Alfred cracked a grin and chuckled, "you know what they say about the brass, they ask for an ass to kick, and we ask what cheek they want."

"Ain't that the truth, Sir," Yuuya shrugged his free shoulder.

"Well, you're officially joining Hunter Battalion," Alfred explained as the two men walked through Elmendorf Air Force Base. The two passed security to a helicopter waiting for them on the roof. Outside the Chinook cargo helicopter, a woman in the same Army uniform as them waited at the ramp. Once Yuuya and Alfred walked up to her, she saluted them both. Alfred and Yuuya returned the salute, and Alfred introduced her. "This is 2nd Lieutenant Irma Thesleff; she'll be your wingman."

The blonde woman with kind blue eyes reminded Yuuya of Stella. But, well, she wasn't as endowed as Stella. "Good to meet you, 2nd Lieutenant Thesleff; looking forward to kicking ass with you," Yuuay smiled.

Irma crossed her arms and chuckled, "you're an eager one, aren't you, 1st Lieutenant?"

"Been spinning my wheels at Yukon for the better part of the month," Yuuya chuckled, and they boarded the helicopter. After a few minutes, they took off and made for the 7th fleet TSF Carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt. While in the air, Alfred was called into the cockpit to take a call. Yuuya was left with Irma, and though he felt terrible about it, he pretended to fall asleep almost immediately. The truth was, his mind was a jumbled mess of thoughts and feelings. Cryska, I'm sorry I failed you; I lost Inia. There wasn't a damn thing I could do! Yuuya, with crossed arms, gripped his bicep tightly. God damned commie bastards, when she was unconscious, they swept in and took her! I got fucking taken by MPs.

Yuuya pursed his lips and glared at nothing through closed eyes. Cryska, for what it's worth, I did love you. I only wish I hadn't been such a damn disappointment.

"You seem to be having a bad nightmare, 1st Lieutenant Bridges," Irma commented, watching him.

Yuuya's eyes snapped open, gasping slightly. He rubbed his temples and gave Irma an apologetic smile. "Sorry, just some bad thoughts."

"Feel like sharing?" Irma offered a sympathetic ear.

"Nah," Yuuya shook his head, "just regrets I want to make amends for." Yuuya sighed and spent the remainder of the Flight focusing on the mission ahead. I wonder, will I see Yui again? Yuuya thought of the katana safely stowed in his duffle bag. I guess it wouldn't be the worst thing to see the Princess again. Yuuya smiled to himself.


November 16, 2001

Takeru checked his controls once more before being fully satisfied. "Alright, squad 207B, you've had almost a week with the XM3, but now I want to see how you handle an unstoppable force as a team." Takeru looked at the portraits of all his friends on his display.

"It's 5 against 1, Shirogane," Chizuru frowned, "are you underestimating us?"

"Frankly, it's the other way around right now," Takeru raised a brow at them. "Trust me, I know what I'm doing."

"Shirogane is being cool," Ayamine hummed.

"I get the feeling you don't mean that," Takeru cracked a grin. "But, I will take it anyways, now listen up! Your objective is simple, locate the enemy Command Post and destroy it. Failing that, you are to annihilate all opposing forces."

"Roger!" The girls sounded off.

"This is where your teamwork makes it or breaks it; remember how you passed the CCE, and you'll do fine." Takeru gripped his controllers and readied himself. "Beginning training mission now!"

Just like that, Takeru's radar signature bleeped off the map. Chizuru took a deep breath and let it out. "Tamase, as planned during the briefing, conceal your location and be ready to support."

"Roger!" Tama turned her TSF and jogged down the streets out of sight.

"Meiya, you're our vanguard, Ayamine, and I will back you up. Everyone will move to Shirogane's last known location at NOE flight level."

"Roger!" Meiya sounded off, and Ayamine simply nodded.

"Mikoto, you know what to do, right?" Chizuru grinned at Mikoto

"Leave it to me; I'll find the CP," Mikoto smirked and blasted away from the group.

"Alright, let's move out!" Chizuru pushed her machine forward, and the three girls tore down the main road. Where are you, Shirogane? Chizuru looked left and right, keeping an eye on her sensors.

"I got a ping on seismic sensors," Meiya reported calmly, "baring is northeast 65."

"Roger, intercept!" Chizuru ordered, and the three TSF flew, making a hairpin turn through the remains of a neighborhood. They flew in that direction before reaching a downed Shiranui embedded through an office building. "Keep your eyes peeled, Circle 1 formation."

"…" Ayamine pursed her lips but followed orders.

"Something you want to say?" Chizuru asked while keeping her eyes fixed on the ruins.

"It's too obvious," Ayamine stated, looking around.

"I concur; Takeru wouldn't just announce his presence blindly." Meiya agreed, her finger resting tense on the trigger. "Energy signature detected," Meiya aimed both her autocannons at the ruins before her. Ayamine and Chizurur followed suit.

"Where?" Chizuru looked at the sensor data shared through their data link.

"It says he's right on top of us!" Meiya's voice grew more worried.

"He's next to us! Ayamine turned her TSF, facing Chizuru's. She booster jumped, ignoring the collision warning.

"!" Meiya turned her TSF, and everything played out in slow motion before her. She saw a faint glowing light from the crashed TSF, jump jets roared as the broken TSF lurched forward, and Takeru's TSF shot from behind it. Ayamine crashed into Chizuru and forced her away, just missing Takeru's Type-74 sword meant for Chizuru's cockpit. Meiya raised her autocannons, but with the momentum, Takeru maneuvered his TSF and kicked off Meiya's TSF. "AAAAHH!" Meiya screamed as the sheer force sent her flying back, and Takeru took Flight.

Meiya's TSF crashed into a heap into a building. Ayamine untangled herself from Chizuru and stared up at Takeru's Shiranui. He had drawn both his Type-74s and held them in a reverse grip.

Takeru's Shiranui's looked down at Chizuru, and his back-mounted autocannons swung below his arms, aiming at Chizuru's downed TSF.

"I got you!"

Takeru's TSF jump jets twisted right, and Takeru turned mid-air, dodging a pink paintball.

"I-I missed!" Tama's voice panicked on comms. Takeru's TSF recovered and flew off as another trail of pink bullets forced him to take cover in the city ruins.

"Mitsurugi," Ayamine muttered, watching Meiya's TSF dislodge itself from the building it crashed against. Her autocannon was aimed upward, where she had managed to ward Takeru off.

Finally, Chiruzru, who had understandably been caught unaware, cleared her head and stood back up. "W-what, happened?" she held her head feeling a dull throb emanating from it.

"Shirogane ambushed us," Ayamine said through tight lips.

"I really was underestimating him," Chizuru gritted her teeth, angry at her arrogance. Takeru had been fighting in the front lines while she led her team to failure in the CCE.

"…" Ayamine looked away, keeping her eyes peeled for Takeru.

"Okay, reform on me, arrowhead 1 formation; we're gonna overwhelm him." Chizuru ignited her jump jets and flew to Takeru's last known location. Meiya and Ayamine formed up at her wings, and it wasn't long before Takeru flew out from cover. He put one sword in front of him and the other behind in a combat stance unknown to them.

"Takeru," Meiya's TSF arm barely moved an inch before Takeru flew at them at full tilt. All three sprayed him with paintballs. Takeru jerked left, planting himself against an office building. He surface jumped off the building and then to the next in a zigzag pattern.

"We can't pin him, scatter!" Chizuru fired her jump jets and boosted up above the city line. Meiya followed suit, but Ayamine rushed forward, drawing her BP Knife. Sparks flashed as Takeru slashed by, blades scraping together. As he passed, he immediately fired his back-mounted autocannons, forcing Ayamine up to rejoin her team.

"Ayamine, don't engage him alone!" Chizuru shouted. "We need to force him here where Tama can support us!"

"…" Ayamine only intensified her glare.

"He's coming!" Meiya cut their brewing argument short as Takeru flew up. Yet again, Takeru was going straight for Chizuru. Ayamine's TSF flew after him, and she aimed.

FRIENDLY FIRE WARNING

Ayamine clicked her tongue; Takeru's trajectory put him where a stray shot could hit Chizuru. Takeru, how are you so good at fighting humans.

"Tamase!" Chizuru fired her autocannon and began a retreat.

"I've relocated; get clear!" Tamase reported. Her TSF knelt atop a skyscraper 100 meters from their fight. She took aim, and Takeru's TSF was in the open as he rushed Chizuru. Tamase planned the trajectory and squeezed the trigger.

Takeru instantly flipped his boosters forward, firing his afterburners and lurching to a stop. Tamase's shot flew past him just meters from his cockpit. The girls all gasped, even with a fortified suit; the G-force of a sudden stop was no joke. Takeru's TSF hovered for a few seconds as he admittedly felt his vision blur from the sudden stop. Ayamine was the first to capitalize and fired at Takeru's back, friendly fire be damned. But, their shock allowed Takeru enough time to recover, and strafe left. The shots trailed past and splattered against Chizururs autocannon.

"Ayamine!" Chizuru barked and dropped the rifle.

"Too slow," Ayamine responded, flying after Takeru.

"Wait, Ayamine!" Chizuru shouted, and she and Meiya flew after them.

"I can't lock on; Takeru is using Ayamine as a shield!" Meiya bared her teeth in frustration.

Me neither, and I'm down to my back-mounted autocannons!" Chizuru griped.

Mikoto's portrait flashed up in Chizurur's display, "Sakaki-san, I couldn't find the CP moving to plan B; I'll set up an ambush; I'll let you know when I'm ready!"

"Roger!" Chizuru cut the transmission, but another transmission came from Marimo, acting as the Command Post. Chizuru gritted her teeth as she realized it was an encrypted channel. She set it to audio-only and listened.

"Ayamine!" Meiya shouted their comrade's name in disbelief at what happened next.

Takeru jerked left, then up as Ayamine fired, trying to tag him. She pushed her TSF further, getting closer until suddenly Takeru flew up and turned his jump jets off. He backflipped mid-air and fired his jump jets in a Kubitz maneuver. "Gah!" Ayamine tried to turn, but Takeru splattered the back of her TSF with green paint.

"Ayamine, critical damage to power supply and cockpit, eliminated." Marimo came over the radio.

"Damn," Chizuru gritted her teeth.

Takeru's TSF turned to face the remaining girls. Though this was all a training exercise, Takeru pulled zero punches. Here and now, Takeru was living up to the name he earned from the French Canadian Alliance forces. Before them now flew the terror of the skies and the salt flatlands. Takeru became known as The Dragon of the West, with the most confirmed kills in a single operation. TSF generally worked in an element, but Takeru had been known to leave his squadron behind and dive straight into enemy formations. Of course, the thing that had earned such infamy was also the fact he engaged human targets in CQC. As far as anyone knew of Takeru, his style was unheard of. Most simply feared a purple Takemikazuchi wielding two type-74 swords, two back-mounted 36mm Type-87 Assault autocannons, and two Type-65 BP Knives.

"Tamase," Chizuru finally broke the silence that gripped them.

"Y-you're in the way; please move, Sakaki-san," Tama watched Chizuru's TSF tilt right, moving slowly. Tamase didn't blame her; she felt it even at 100 meters away. Like they were dealing with a deadly predator, sudden movements would only set it off. "Almost," Tamase sighed and admitted it was hard to imagine Takeru guiding her hand on the controls. Especially when it was Takeru himself, they were fighting. But, as Chizuru moved and Takeru's Shiranui peeked. Tamase would lie if she didn't say she squeaked when Takeru's Shiranui's head turned to look precisely where she was located.

As if reading Tamase's mind, Takeru slowly drifted, keeping pace with Chizuru and firmly blocking Tamase's line of sight. "H-he knows where I am!" Tamase warned, and like a gazelle who alerted the herd of a lion's presence, Meiya and Chizuru fired on Takeru. Takeru boosted forward, zigzagging, making him hard to target.

"Everyone, I'm ready. Just lure Takeru to me, updating the data link!" Mikoto's location blipped into the girl's radar.

"Mitsurugi-san, Takeru has only been targeting me; I'll be the bait." Chizuru turned and flew down to spring their ambush on Takeru. "Let's go!"

"Roger!" Meiya fired on Takeru, who dodged before putting himself between Meiya and Chizuru and using his back-mounted autocannons to keep Meiya at bay. Chizuru turned, and fired her jump jets, slowing her down but keeping her in flight mode. Chizuru blocked her cockpit with her supplemental armor and drew her BP Knife secretly behind it.

"I got him!" Tamase said and fired again; Takeru fired his jump jets, forcing him into the sky. But, a second shot from the window of an office tagged Takeru's right jump jet mid-jump.

"2nd Lieutenant, huh?" Marimo gasped as the paint tagged his jump jet. Takeru ejected it. Then, relying solely on his remaining jump jet, Takeru boosted down to Chizuru. "S-safe ejection of jump unit before detonation, no TSF damage." Marimo finally snapped out of her shock. Shirogane, just where did you learn to be such a good Eishi?

Takeru's TSF landed but slid along the ground. Takeru brought his left sword, dragged it against the ground, and threw dust into Chizurur's TSF visor. It was a split second, but it was all Takeru needed. He booster jumped over Chizuru to get behind her. Chizuru swung her supplemental armor and hit the air. "!" Chzirur gasped; Takeru had left a clear berth. He knew from the start she would turn to catch him. With her arm swung out, Takeru dashed forward and swung at her exposed cockpit.

"Sakaki!" Meiya came to Takeru's left but was instantly splattered with green paint from his back-mounted autocannon.

"Mitsurugi, critical damage to cockpit block and head, eliminated," Mairimo announced.

"Not yet!" Mikoto flew out between two buildings with her BP Knife and stabbed at Takeru's power supply. Takeru turned his other sword, and it slid against Mikoto's cockpit. Metal screeched; Takeru dropped a sword, grabbed Chizrur's supplemental armor, and put it before him.

Pink paint splattered against the armor, and Marimo's voice came alive on the radio. "Sakaki, stab through the cockpit, critical damage eliminated. Yoroi, stab through the cockpit, critical damage eliminated. Tamase, you are no longer an effective combat force, retreat immediately out of the combat zone at NOE flight; the mission has failed."

Everyone was silent before Takeru finally broke it, "oh man, that was intense; you almost had me, Tama!" Just like that, the spell was broken, and everyone felt immense relief. Because for a moment, they got a taste of what a real battle against a human opponent entailed. The BETA were straightforward, but humans were clever and capable of changing strategy. But, more importantly, the Takeru they knew and cared for was there. He never once spoke to them during the exercise, and his aggression, despite knowing they wouldn't die, put some fear in them all. His words at the beginning of their exercise replayed in everyone's mind.

I want to see how you handle an unstoppable force as a team.

To squad 207B and even Marimo, Takeru was just that. He was a force of nature.


Briefing Room A

Takeru stepped up to the room where Marimo was waiting for him. She gave him a wry smile as he approached and saluted him. Takeru sighed and did as expected of him, "come on, Marimo-chan, we don't need to be so formal."

"Sargeant Jinguuji, 2nd Lieutenant Shirogane," Marimo glared at him, sighing exasperatedly.

"S-sorry," Takeru rubbed the back of his head and smiled apologetically. "Anyways," Takeru cleared his throat, "how are they looking there?"

"What do you think?" Marimo raised a brow at him.

"Fair; who would be happy getting their ass handed to them at a 1v5." Takeru crossed his arms and thought of how best to approach the situation.

"2nd Lieutenant Shirogane, I agreed to let you help me because I believe in you," Marimo broke through his thoughts.

"Huh?" Takeru turned to her.

Marimo cocked her hip and rested her fist against it, "You've come to know them, and you've proven yourself a capable leader. So go in there and remind them this isn't a daycare. " Marimo smirked.

Takeru blinked and then laughed, "you're right, thank you, Marimo-chan; I mean instructor, er, Sargeant Jinguuji!" Takeru shook his head and straightened at attention.

"Haah," Mairmo sighed, "you're hopeless 2nd Lieutenant, now get in there already." She walked up behind him and pushed him into the door.

"H-hey!" Takeru protested as the door slid open, and he stumbled inside.

"Salute!" Chizuru and all the girls stood up in a crisp salute.

"At ease," Takeru gave them a salute and motioned for everyone to sit. Takeru stood before them and put his hands in his flight jacket's pockets. He gave everyone a once-over, and there was clear tension in the room. The obvious culprits were seated at opposite ends of each other. Ayamine and Chizuru. What was that I said again about causality and spirals? Takeru crossed his arms and then lifted a finger. "I'll start simple, Cadet Sakaki; tell me what you all did wrong." Takeru made sure the 'all' was emphasized.

"Sir, I believe our strategy wasn't lacking, but some didn't adhere to it entirely." Chizuru stood with her hands behind her back, "I bare full responsibility for not getting my unit in proper order."

"What elements failed to follow your command?" Takeru asked simply. Everyone in the room tensed.

"It was me," Ayamine stepped up and folded her hands behind her back again.

"Cadet Ayamine, why did you not follow your Flight leader's orders," Takeru turned his cool stare on her.

"Her orders weren't working," Ayamine gave Chizuru a side stare.

"…" Chizuru said nothing but balled her hands into fists behind her back.

"Give me your reasoning," Takeru nodded to Ayamine.

"You targeted our weakest pilot, and she didn't realize it sooner," Ayamine stared ahead of her.

Takeru's eyes shifted to Chizuru, her face tight, clearly wanting to speak out. "Cadet Ayamine, on what facts do you base this conclusion?"

"She led us to an ambush and failed to notice your presence fast enough," Ayamine closed her eyes.

"Were you aware I was waiting for you, Cadet Ayamine?" Takeru raised a brow.

"No, but I knew the trap was sprung faster than Flight Leader Sakaki," Ayamine clarified.

"I see; from your perspective, these are solid arguments," Takeru uncrossed his arms and rested his fist on his hip. "Cadet Sakaki, state full mission objectives."

"Sir?" Chizuru looked at him.

"All of them," Takeru nodded.

"Sir," Chizuru nodded. "The search and destruction of the enemy Command Post, failing to locate the Command Post, the operation was to shift to eliminating all opposing forces." Chizuru finished.

"What were the mission failure parameters," Takeru looked to Ayamine, but the question was still addressed to Chizuru.

"Total annihilation of the unit, or the loss of enough units to render the remainder combat ineffective." Chizuru pursed her lips.

"Were you aware of these conditions, Cadet Ayamine?"

"Yes, Sir," Ayamine nodded.

"Cadet Sakaki, inform Cadet Aayimen of the information she wasn't privy to," Takeru gestured with his free hand.

"During the combat operation, I received an update from the Command Post. The enemy had sent their elite unit to the field, as we had inadvertently exposed a gap in their defensive line. However, our data link could not connect outside our immediate combat zone due to area-wide ECM. Command Post suggested that the enemy was aware of this and was targeting the Flight Commander to eliminate the data leak." Chizuru finished.

"Correct; why did you neglect to tell your Squadron this information." Takeru followed up.

"Per your orders, I was to maintain strict operational secrecy and to reveal only what was necessary to accomplish the mission," Chizuru answered.

Ayamine stiffened visibly and looked away from Takeru. He took a step back and addressed the whole of 207B. "That's right, you can't be expected to have all the information at all times on any battlefield. Sometimes information trickles down as needed to complete the mission. A wise woman once told me, what is the point of revealing anything to an immature boy who couldn't even help." Takeru smiled lightly, thinking of Yuuko and her Cheshire cat grin.

"Ayamine, I don't know why you have such a problem with authority or if it's Sakaki specifically you have a problem against. But regardless, the matter can only be resolved one way. So next week, I have an exercise planned for all of you." Takeru looked at Ayamine and Chizuru, "I will be separating you all into two Flights; Flight A will consist of myself, Yoroi, and Tamase. Flight B will consist of Mitsurugi, Sakaki, and Ayamine. For this exercise, Cadet Mitsurugi will be Flight Leader."

"Huh?" Chizuru blinked, surprised.

"Any objections?" While Takeru didn't glare, he gave the full weight of his stare at Ayamine and Chizuru.

"No, Sir!" They all replied in unison.

"Good, with all that serious business out of the way. Everyone's dismissed for lunch," Takeru clapped his hands. "Also, for what it's worth, I think everyone did better than my initial estimate."

"R-really?" Chizuru held her arm and gave Takeru an incredulous look.

"You have some kinks to work out, but I'm confident you can work them out until the next exercise. I expect you all to frequently meet the rest of the week and work on a strategy." Takeru gave them a thumbs up, and the girls visibly perked up.

"Alright, I'll catch you guys later," Takeru turned and started to leave.

"Huh? You're not joining us, Takeru?" Mikoto frowned.

"Sorry, no rest for the wicked; I got to go over the planned exercise with Ma-er, I mean Sargeant Jinguuji." Takeru corrected himself and felt somewhat proud about catching himself. The girls nodded and left, except for Meiya, who hung back and waited for everyone else to leave her alone with Takeru.

Meiya approached him and grabbed his arm."Ah, Takeru, would you happen to be busy tonight?"

"No, can't say that I am," Takeru thought about it. Yuuko said she'd be working on something with Kasumi, so his night was clear.

"A-ah, that's good; after our nightly run, do you mind coming to my room?" Meiya smiled, relieved, and crossed her arms.

"Sure, though, why for?" Takeru raised a brow.

"O-oh, well, there's something I wanted to do. I think it's long overdue, so please make sure you come. Oh, and please bring a change of clothes." Meiya's blush deepened, and she tried hiding it by looking away.

Takeru felt his body temperature rise, something she wanted to do that was overdue? But, wait, a change of clothes!? Takeru swallowed a lump in his throat and shook his head. "Sure, no problem; I'll see you tonight for our run, then we can head right over. Sound good?"

"Y-yes, well then, until tonight, Takeru," Meiya said quickly and walked briskly out of the room.

Takeru watched her go, her blue hair swaying behind her. He put his hand over his hammering heart and willed himself to calm down. This could be anything; hell, it was probably about her assignment as Flight leader for the exercise! Yeah, that must be it. But what was that about a change of clothes? Takeru sighed mentally and made to meet with Marimo.


Classroom 2B

Takeru slid the door to the classroom open and found Marimo waiting for him. She was looking over some papers and eating from a food tray. Opposite her was a covered tray and chair, "this for me?" Takeru pointed at himself as he walked to sit down.

"I figured you probably came straight here without eating," Marimo smiled knowingly.

"Ah, thank you very much, Sargeant Jinguuji!" Takeru took his seat, opened the tray, and dug in.

"So, how did your first teaching moment go, 2nd Lieutenant?" Marimo asked after a few minutes.

"Ah!" Takeru dropped his head on his desk, "it was so hard! I feel like I just pulled something out of my ass!" Takeru sat up and rested his cheek on his closed fist, "I don't know how you do it, Marimo-chan." Takeru didn't even bother to correct himself.

Marimo sighed and shook her head, "2nd Lieutenant, if that were true, I don't think you would have made Ayamine and Sakaki work together afterward."

"Really?" Takeru perked and smiled broadly.

He looks like a puppy with a bone, Marimo laughed internally. "When I was picking up our food, I saw them all talking in the PX. Ayamine, and Chizuru, in particular, looked to be having a heart-to-heart."

"Alright!" Takeru stood and threw his arms up. "Man, I can't believe I'm doing it; I'm making a difference, after all!" Takeru's eyes watered slightly. He had changed the future already at Niigata, but this somehow felt more personal; his friends were on the path to becoming better surface pilots.

"You really care about them, don't you, 2nd Lieutenant?" Marimo smiled, it was a kind smile, and Takeru felt the warmth of it spread across his chest.

"Of course I do; I want to prepare them for what's outside this base." The future he had lived through would not come to pass, but that meant whatever lay beyond them was a mystery to him. The only thing he could do now was prepared them for whatever the world threw at them. "I feel like you're one of the few who understand me, Marimo-chan." Takeru sighed

"2nd Lieutenant!" Marimo admonished, then sighed, "you know what, how about this?" Marimo pointed her fork at Takeru. "If your plan works and Ayamine really pull their weight in the next exercise, I will allow you to call me that."

Takeru slapped his hands on the table and leaned forward, his face inches from Marimo's. "You mean it!?"

His eyes, they're like the color of honey. Marimo shook her head and leaned back, light pink dusting her cheeks. "Y-yes, don't need to get so excited 2nd Lieutenant."

"Then, also, you have to call me Takeru!" He grinned, pumping his fist.

Marimo blinked as a memory from long ago resurfaced.

Marimo sat in her room, listening to the radio drama playing on her old boombox. "Huh?" The heroine gasped.

"If you don't allow me to call you by your first name, that means you really care about me."

"T-that's," the heroine stuttered.

"Then, call me Yozora, and I'll know your feelings are true if you do."

"C-calling a boy by his first name?" Marimo crushed her pillow to her chest, her cheeks crimson. "I don't know if I could be that bold, especially if I liked him!"

The door opened, and a purple-haired girl peeked in, "Marimo, are you listening to those mushy radio dramas again?"

Marimo jumped and smashed her hand over the off button on her boombox. "Y-Yuuko! It's polite to knock before entering someone's room!" Marimo covered her beet-red face.

"Haaa?" Yuuko gave her a cat-like grin, "But how would I catch you doing something lewd with a boy?"

"Y-Yuuko!" Marimo threw her pillow at Yuuko.

Yuuko ducked out, the pillow hitting the door as she laughed. "Come on, we're gonna be late for school if you don't hurry up!"

The memory cleared, and Marimo turned on her chair and even turned her head away for good measure. "Shirogane!" She said, concealing her red face. There's no way I can call him by his first name! That be admitting I somehow like him!

"T-Takeru?" He tried earnestly.

"Shirogane!" Marimo insisted, peeking over her shoulder.

"Haa," Takeru sat back down and sighed, accepting the partial victory.

"A-anyway," Marimo cleared her throat and turned back. "let's talk about next week's exercise."

"Right, right," Takeru leaned back on his chair, folding his arms behind his head.


Barracks later that night

"Please come in," Meiya opened the door to her room and stepped inside.

"Thanks for having me," Takeru walked in as Meiya closed the door behind them.

"So, what's up?" Takeru moved to lean on the desk at the far end of the room next to the bed.

"Right, but before we do that, do you want to shower?" Meiya crossed her arms, looking away.

"O-oh, yeah, guess we're all sweaty," Takeru nodded and went into the bathroom. He stripped and entered the shower, all the while his mind racing a mile a minute. Calm down, Shirogane, don't jump to conclusions. Remember, you can't force things; this Meiya doesn't feel the same as the one from before! You have to play it cool and build up to what you had before! Takeru put his hand against his hammering heart, it was easy to think that, but his body didn't seem to agree. He looked down and glared at his offending body. Then, he slapped his cheeks and turned the warm water to cold! "Woo!" Takeru shivered instantly.

"T-Takeru, are you okay in there?"

"Y-yeah, be out soon!" Takeru said through clattering teeth and showered as fast as he could. After ten minutes, Takeru finished his shower, dressed in fresh clothes, and exited the bathroom. "All yours," Takeru jabbed his thumb behind him and walked past Meiya.

"Right," Meiya nodded and briskly walked into the bathroom. Takeru sat on Meiya's bed, tapping his foot, doing his best to keep his cool. "Just think of something else, Takeru," he muttered. "Yeah, let's think about TSFs!" Takeru crossed his arms, thinking of the machines he's piloted. From his humble Fubuki to a Shiranui and the mighty Takemikazuchi. Come to think of it, he never piloted any American TSF before. I wonder if their cockpits are roomier? Takeru thought, stroking his chin. Yeah, I mean, Meiya and me fit in a simulator! Takeru shook his head, blushing. Damn it, bad Takeru, don't think about that!

The door opened, letting steam out, "Takeru, are you ready?" Meiya said from behind the door still.

Takeru felt his heart beat against his chest, "Y-yeah!" Takeru stiffened.

Meiya finally pushed the door open, and there she stood, fully clothed. "Okay, I believe it's time to fulfill my promise." Meiya walked to her desk and grabbed the wooden Shogi box set. "I recall saying I would school you in humility," Meiya smirked.

Takeru let out a long sigh, "yeah, so you did!" Takeru rubbed the back of his head, feeling silly, if a bit disappointed. Though he attributed that last part to his teenage hormones.

"Huh? You almost sound disappointed, Takeru?" Meiya raised a brow.

"Well, what can I say? I wasn't expecting to defeat you twice in one day," Takeru smirked.

"I believe that's what the Americans call fighting words, Takeru." Meiya grinned as she placed two pillows on the ground and set the shogi table between them.

Takeru removed his boots and took his seat, which immediately contrasted Meiya'sproper feet tucked beneath her and straight back traditional position. Takeru just sat back, one leg curled and resting his arm on his bent knee. "Alright, let's get this started."

"Please," Meiya smiled, then jumped in surprise. "Oh, I forgot. Would you like some tea Takeru?"

"I think the PX is closed at this hour," Takeru raised a brow.

"I have my own tea if that's alright with you," Meiya nodded.

"Then I'd love some," Takeru nodded back.

Meiya stood up and moved to her desk. She opened a drawer and pulled everything from a heating pan to a personal tea set. She put some water in the tea kettle from the sink and set it on the heating pan. "Alright, let's play while the water boils."

Takeru made the first move playing the black pieces. "By your leave Daimyo Mitsurugi," Takeru grinned.

"Heh," Meiya chuckled and moved next. "Takeru, may I ask for your advice?"

"If it's to ask for a strategy to defeat me, I'm afraid I can't oblige, even to the famed beautiful Daimyo Meiya Mitsurugi." Takeru stroked an imaginary beard and nodded sagely.

Meiya blushed and looked down, folding her hands over her lap. "You tease too much, Takeru." Meiya, though could not deny how her heart fluttered. "Though, in essence, you are not wrong, I do wish to ask you about how to defeat you. But I ask because I don't know how to help Ayamine and Sakaki."

"Hmm," Takeru thought about it and remembered when he ended up on a team with the two girls. "Well, if you want my advice, nothing helps more than being forced to share a space."

Meiya raised a brow and looked over the board. "I don't believe I understand your meaning Takeru." She picked up a pawn and advanced forward.

"Hoo, I see the beautiful Daimyo Mitsurugi wishes to sally forth and meet the bandit King Shirogane Takeru!" He grinned mischievously. "As for what I mean, you girls have been sheltered from the reality of most training bases. Most bases don't have the luxury of private rooms; a squadron would live in a barracks with zero privacy. The gender boundaries don't exist in the front lines; squadrons eat, bathe, and sometimes use the bathroom together."

"Use the bathroom together?" Meiya looked understandably uncomfortable.

"What I mean is there are no dividers or doors. It's just a row of toilets," Takeru shrugged and made his move. Same for the showers; everyone bathes together, and being naked starts to mean nothing." Takeru thought about his time before Operation Iceberg; everyone was so casual with one another. One time Takeru had walked into two Surface Pilots going at it in the shower. Takeru just remembered being annoyed and asking them to hurry up; he had to shower before the morning call.

"So you suggest Sakaki, Ayamine, and I should live in the same room for the next week?" Meiya hummed in thought.

"Yep, you guys can talk, argue, fight all you want, and get your issues out of your system." Takeru nodded, watching Meiya move and take one of his pawns.

The kettle whistled, and Meiya stood up to prepare the tea. "It's green tea; I hope that is okay."

"Fine by me, my dear Daimyo Mitsurugi," Takeru winked at her.

Meiya sighed and shook her head at Takeru's antics. "Very well, I shall ask them to do as such. I only hope all three of us show up alive to the exercise." Meiya looked back over her shoulder, smiling ruefully.

"I have full confidence in your ability Meiya; you'll straighten those two out." Takeru crossed his arms and looked at the board. Crap, Meiya is just as good as Yuuhi at this. Meiya returned with their teas, and Takeru took his tea, "Thanks."

"You're quite welcome," Meiya took a sip of hers and sighed blissfully. She looked at the board as Takeru moved his Rook forward and took a pawn of Meiya's.

Takeru sipped from his tea, and his eyes widened. He looked at the cup wide-eyed, "it's not synthetic!" He exclaimed excitedly.

Meiya smiled, pleased with herself at Takeru's reaction. "It was a gift from Tsukuyomi; she gave me the set and tea before I came to Yokohoma." Meiya picked up her Knight and advanced to Takeru's center.

"Well, look at that," Takeru sighed and reflected on the tea. "Tea, Shogi, and a good conversation? Meiya, I'm sure you'd make the perfect wife." Takeru grinned and lifted his tea in thanks. Sorry Meiya, but if I don't find a way to distract you, you're gonna make mince meat out of me in this game.

Meiya felt her heart hammer against her chest, "T-Takeru, you tease me too much; I don't think I'd make such a great wife." Meiya gripped her teacup and looked down, her face beet red. Then, she picked up a pawn and moved without thinking.

Already working! Takeru cackled evilly in his mind, fluster her; Takeru, it's your only chance! "I mean it; if you tell me you can cook, I don't see why you wouldn't be." Takeru made a move and began his counteroffensive.

Meiya fidgeted in her spot, "T-Takeru, do you like girls that can cook?" Meiya whispered.

Takeru, however, was oblivious; he was celebrating his victory in his mind as Meiya made another move creating an opening. "Yeah, sure, sure," Takeru answered absently.

Meiya swallowed hard, looked at the board, and moved again. "Then, I wouldn't mind learning, f-for you, Takeru." Meiya stuttered quietly.

Takeru decided to gloat in a moment of self-indulgence, believing he had gotten the proper upper hand. "I guess you can say I have a thing for a traditional Japanese woman. Of course, she'd also have to beat me in Shogi."

At that, Meiya perked up; she looked at the board, analyzed the situation, and moved. "Understood!" If Takeru likes a traditional Japanese woman, I have the advantage in this battle!

Twenty minutes later, Takeru fell flat on his back. "I lost!" Takeru sighed, thinking his strategy had actually worked! Wonder if this would have worked on Yuuhi? Nah, Meiya and her are too similar for it to have worked. Takeru sat up and was about to congratulate Meiya, but she was positively glowing, looking at the board very proud of herself. Hell, I can't bring myself to feel that bad about it. Seeing Meiya smile is one of the small pleasures in life, after all.

They played a couple more games, and Takeru scored a single victory. "Well, I think it's time I hit the sack." Takeru stood up and stretched.

"Yes, I will implement your suggestion tomorrow," Meiya smiled and picked up her tea cup.

"Here, let me help," Takeru grabbed his own cup and helped her put the shogi pieces away. Meiya took the two tea cups and put them in her sink. Takeru dusted himself off and grabbed the pillows leaving them atop Meiya's bed. "Alright, I'll see you tomorrow." Takeru walked to the door and opened it.

"Ah, wait, Takeru!" Meiya stepped up to him.

"Yeah?" Takeru turned and blinked as Meiya leaned in.

Her impossibly soft lips brushed against Takeru's cheek. "Thank you for the advice and the games of Shogi." Meiya stepped back, hands folded neatly before her, and bowed.

"Y-yeah, sure, no problem." Takeru stepped back and allowed Meiya to close the door. Then, Takeru turned to his room and started his trudge there. As he did, there was a spring to his step, and Takeru touched his cheek, feeling his heart beat a mile a minute.

Meiya, after closing the door, turned and pressed her back against it. She looked up, her face still red from her actions. She smiled and slid down to a sitting position. "I've made my first real move!" She said to herself, and somehow all the girls whose intentions for Takeru were romantic felt a jolt up their spines. In an event equal to the arrival of a causality conductor, all these women had the same thought.

I won't lose to her!

Tsukuyomi Mana stopped mid-brush stroke; she was before her vanity in the officer's quarters provided for her. She put her hairbrush down and wrapped her arms around her. Why did I suddenly feel a chill, like many enemies were nearby? She shook her head and shrugged. She was probably just imagining things.


November 19, 2001

North Pacific Sea

Yuuya grabbed his katana, closed his locker, and straightened his uniform. Satisfied with his appearance, he made to leave. But before he could, one of his unit members spoke up. "1st Lieutenant, what's with the katana? You a samurai or something?" John Dimaggio, an Italian American refugee, cracked a grin at him.

"Big talk the from the slick hair back guido. You gonna cooka da pasta?" Yuuya exagerated his italian accent.

"Hah," John laughed, "keep talking, tough guy; friendly fire can happen, you know?"

"Shit, with how you aim, Dimaggio, you'd miss a fucking Fortress Class in front of you." Arthur Morgan, American born and bred, from the midwest no less, piped up coming out of the shower.

"You boys play nice with the 1st Lieutenant now," Irma, naked as the day she was born, walked up next to Yuuya, drying her hair.

"Oi," Yuuya muttered and turned away from her. "I know it doesn't mean shit out on the field, but you could have worn a towel, 2nd Lieutenant."

"Haha, hear that, Irma; I think that means the 1st Lieutenant likes you." John cackled.

"Oh, 1st Lieutenant, that's embarrassing to have seen me naked, and you haven't even invited me to dinner." Irma put her hand to her cheek in mock worry. "What would my mother think?"

Yuuya clicked his tongue and sighed, "never mind, forget I said anything." Yuuya waved at them and started walking away.

"Oh, 1st Lieutenant, we're going to grab dinner at the mess; care to join us?" Irma asked as she opened her locker.

"You guys go ahead; I'm gonna catch some fresh salty air," Yuuya waved them goodbye and made for the flight deck.

With Yuuya gone, Irma looked at his closed locker and laughed. John looked at her and raised a brow, "don't tell me you actually like him, Irma?"

"Who knows?" Irma grinned, slipping her underwear on. "I happen to like shy men." She winked at John and Arthur and gave both men a pointed stare, "not shameless perverts who stare."

"Hooo!" John and Arthur said simultaneously as both quickly found the ceiling of the carrier a lot more interesting. John was the first to grin and bend backward, "just stretching Irma."

"Checking the ceiling for loose bolts!" Arthur grinned. The three then shared a laugh, and Irma thanked god once again she found a second family in Hunter Battalion.

Yuuya exited outside, feeling the breeze of the ocean hit his face. He walked to the nearby solid rail and leaned on it. Though the deck was well-lit, this deep out at sea, Yuuya could see the ocean of stars above. Yui, I realize I never got to ask you this. But if I get to see you, I want you to show me the Japan you love.

"Ah, 1st Lieutenant Bridges, there you are."

Yuuya turned to the voice and instantly saluted, "Major Walken, Sir!"

Walken saluted back, "at ease," he nodded and leaned on the railing next to Yuuya. "2nd Lieutenant Thesleff told me you'd be out here."

"What can I do for you, Major Walken?" Yuuya nodded.

"Ah, nothing so formal; first things first, how did it feel to step inside a Raptor again?" Alfred jerked his head to the right. Yuuya leaned back and saw a Raptor on deck on patrol.

"Like putting on an old pair of 66 billion dollar shoes," Yuuya chuckled.

"Hah," Alfred laughed, shaking his head. "I'm glad you didn't go rusty after being benched for so long."

"Thanks, but JIVES doesn't feel the same when you're inside a stationary TSF." Yuuta scratched the back of his head.

"Hm, no, but we have planned an exercise when we hit Sagami Bay." Alfred nodded, "that ought to clear the cobwebs."

"Thank god for that," Yuuya was aching to fly for real. A Surface Pilot kept in his cage for too long made them mad. While everyone who becomes a Surface Pilot has their own reasons for doing so, some simply love being a Surface Pilot. The idea of flying a million-dollar war machine at fast speeds was enough to get anyone's blood racing. Yuuya was definitely one of those. He wasn't a thrill-seeking junkie or anything, but being a Surface Pilot was a calling to him.

"Do you mind if I ask you a personal question, 1st Lieutenant Bridges?" Alfred looked out to the sea.

"By all means, Major," Yuuya nodded.

"As a half-Japanese, what are your feelings towards America?" Alfred kept looking forward.

"Huh," Yuuya thought of his life and how hard he tried to be an American. How hard he used to distance himself from his father and second nationality. Not to mention how he was treated as a pariah by other kids. They didn't care that he was half-American; they called him Jap. But for a brief moment in his life, he had Sharon, as American as they came. She treated him like any other guy, and there was also his old CO, Rick Sven. The man had been a mentor to Yuuya, and if things hadn't gone south, Yuuya almost called him a second father. Still, America had many problems, but point to any country that doesn't, and Yuuya would tell you, you were full of shit. With that in mind, Yuuya smiled, "I fucking love my country." Yuuya shifted his eyes to Alfred, "when my mom died, I remember thinking all I have left is the military."

"I'm sorry to hear about your loss, 1st Lieutenant Bridges."

"Don't be," Yuuya shook his head. "I loved my mom; she did her best with a brat like me. I got a lot of shit for being half-Japanese in Texas. But when I joined the Army, I only had myself to blame for my fuck ups with the people around me." Yuuya sighed. "I can't blame everything on other people; that isn't what a real man does." Yuuya looked on at the stretching endless dark sea. "I wish I'd learned that sooner."

"What about your father?" Alfred hummed, "if you don't mind me asking."

"Fuck him," Yuuya said simply. "Mom never talked about him, but I felt the parting wasn't entirely his fault. Still, my mom said he was a good man." Yuuya frowned. "A good man wouldn't have left his son. Or should have at least married the woman he fathered a child with."

"I see," Alfred nodded and didn't try to take a side either way. Yuuya appreciated that. He let Yuuya have his own feelings and didn't try to impose his own. Alfred looked down at the blackness below the carrier. "Did you know who he was?"

"Nah, not till my mom's funeral," Yuuya reached into his back pocket, pulled out his wallet, and took out a folded picture. "That's my mom, Mira Bridges," Yuuya showed Alfred. Mira had blond hair and steely blue eyes and a sharp stare, a far contrast to the motherly eyes she had when he was growing up.

"She seemed like a fine woman," Alfred smiled slightly, "may I?" Alfred motioned to the picture. Yuuya nodded, and Alfred unfolded the photo's right side. His eyes widened slightly, and he looked at Yuuya. "Is this man in yellow your father?"

Yuuya looked at him, a wry smile on his lips. "Wouldn't that have been a scandal? Can you imagine me? the brat of some Samurai?" Yuuya laughed.

Alfred unfolded the other side, where he could make out two more men. One in a blue suit and a man most Americans who followed TSF development knew, Frank Heinemann. Then there was the man in black Royal Guard drab. "So this man is your father?"

"That's him. I only found out who he was after my mom passed." Yuuya reached out, and Alfred returned the photo to the young man. "I couldn't bring myself to tear the picture; I don't have many pictures of her." Yuuya folded the picture and put it back in his wallet. "Iwaya Eiji, is his name. Tracked some info about him when I was still angry and wanted to lash out. Got a letter from the brass that boiled down to stop looking or else." Yuuya sighed, turned, and leaned on the rail crossing his arms. "Hope I never meet him," Yuuya said, "cuz I'll probably cause an international incident when I punch his teeth out."

"Yeah, I'm going to have to ask you to restrain yourself, 1st Lieutenant Bridges," Alfred laughed, then sighed and gave him a pitiable look. "Command wants you front and center if we have to interact with the government."

"Great," Yuuy hung his head low. "Well, for you, Major, I'll keep my hands behind my back at all times."

"Much appreciate it; now try to get some rest, 1st Lieutenant Bridges; we'll be in Japan in a few days."

"Yes, Sir," Yuuya pushed off the rail and saluted Alfred goodbye. Yuuya was once again left alone with his thoughts. Yui, I hope we get to see one another again soon.


November 23, 2001

Takeru looked at the letter in his hands and pursed his lips. It started innocently enough; Ayamine wasn't present with Meiya and Chizuru, so Takeru told them to go on, and he went to find her. He bumped into her, and Ayamine seemed like a world away. Which is saying something, given her aloof nature. But, when Takeru tried talking to her, she stared past him and walked off. Then he stepped on the offending letter in his hands. He should have been polite and not read it. It was some kind of poem or a god damn suicide note promising retribution in death. Takeru sighed and took the letter to Ayamine's room. He left it on her desk as he found it. He had other things to worry about. He needed to warn Yuuko about the HSST incident coming up. Sometime at the end of November, a destroyer shuttle would attempt a suicide run on Yokohoma Base.

With that immediate threat in mind, Takeru left the clearly illegally smuggled letter of Ayamine's for another time. So when Takeru rounded the corner and found Kasumi exiting the brain room, he was able to smile a little. "Kasumi, you're going to see Yuuko Sensei too?"

"…" Kasumi nodded.

"Come on then, let's see her together," Takeru patted her head, and her bunny ear accessories twitched. The door slid open, and the room was dark. Takeru fumbled for the light switch by the wall and flicked the lights on.

"Oh? It's rude to come in unannounced, don't you know?"

Takeru raised a brow; a man he had never met before stood by Yuuko's desk. He wore a trench coat and a wide-brim hat. Takeru instantly stepped between the mystery man Kasumi. "Ruder than breaking and entering?"

"Hohoho, you do have a point, I suppose. Who might you be?"

"You first," Takeru reached behind him to the knife strapped to his belt on his lower back. Carrying guns if you're off duty is strictly prohibited. But, a combat knife was allowed, and Takeru learned early on to always be armed after Babylon.

"Oh? I was under the impression the host had to go first? Or is that the other way around? Hohoho," the man laughed and had this coy smile that eerily reminded Takeru of someone.

"Shirogane Takeru, 2nd Lieutenant UN 11th Forces." Takeru gripped the knife and nudged Kasumi to the door. "So I'll ask again, old man, who are you?"

"Ho?" the old man stepped up to Takeru; Takeru took one step back and drew his knife. Then, he lowered his stance, placing the knife directly before him.

"Keep your distance," Takeru threatened.

"Hohoho, Shirogane Takeru, that's a scary face; that's some quality work." He raised his hands to show himself unarmed. But Takeru knew that killing with one's bare hands wasn't hard.

"This is just a standard issue combat-knife pops," Takeru glared.

"But I was talking about the quality work of your face Shirogane-chan." His lips pulled back in a thin smirk.

"Oi, who calls another man chan?" Takeru frowned. Wait, not the damn point. "So, gonna introduce yourself, old man? Or should I pickpocket some ID off your tacky suit?"

"Hm?" The mystery man looked at his suit over, "tacky? I am quite proud of this suit; the material is hard to get. Very expensive; want to come to get a feel for it?"

"Pass. Now give me a name, or I'm hauling your ass into a cell." Takeru got into a combat stance.

"Setsuna."

"Huh?" Takeru blinked.

"That's a good name for a boy or a girl, don't you think? Hohoho," He stroked his chin.

"Alright, old man, you asked for it," Takeru slid one foot forward, keeping his combat stance firm.

"Hoo, I don't believe you'll be able to touch me, I'm afraid. Hohoho," The old man put his hands in his pockets and grinned. "After all, how is a dead man able to touch things? He must be a ghost, right Shirogane-kun?"

Takeru narrowed his eyes further; this guy knows I'm supposed to be dead too. But he's clearly Japanese; could he be from the government? "I see, given your spy shtick, and you know about me. I'm gonna throw a guess and say you're from the Imperial Ministry of Intelligence."

"Hoo, you're a clever one, Shirogane-kun," the man clapped his hands.

"So you are then," Takeru raised a brow.

"No."

"I guess expecting a straight answer at this point says more about me than you." Takeru sighed; this guy was really something else. Also, he couldn't help it, but damn it felt familiar trying to talk to him like an average person.

"Hohoho, how many spies do you know to admit to being spies?" The old man gave him a confused stare before he went back to smiling coyly.

"Fair point, counterpoint; I'm the one with the knife," Takeru gripped his weapon tighter.

"Well, when you put it that way," the man raised his hands again, "oh, how is my son, by the way? He's such a tomgirl, isn't he? Hohoho."

"Dude, I have no idea who you're talking about," Takeru was getting really annoyed now.

"Oh, sorry, it's my daughter, who is tomboyish, that's it! Hohoho," he laughed at his own apparent slip-up. "My mistake; I always wanted a son, you see; call it a Freudian slip. But Mikoto says such nice things about you. She must be quite smitten."

"Mikoto? Wait, you're him; you're her dad!" Takeru felt utterly incredulous. He had never once met the man, even in his old world!

"Yes, and he's here uninvited…again."

Takeru looked past Mikoto's dad to see Yuuko Sensei walk up to them. Takeru looked at her briefly and got out of his combat stance, putting his knife back. "Now, what do you want again, Yoroi?" Yuuko crossed her arms, glaring at the man.

"Ah, Professor Kouzuki, lovely seeing you again. So this is really Shirogane Takeru, right, not some robot?" The man reached for Takeru's face.

Takeru snagged Yoroi's hand inches from his face. "hey, keep your hands to yourself. I only like mature curvy women touching me."

"Hohoho, an interesting taste Shirogane-kun." Yoroi pulled his hand back, smirking. "I didn't think you had a thing for younger men, Professor Kouzuki; I must admit to being heartbroken."

"Please, I'm a very busy woman; I don't have time for these frivolities." Yuuko once more glared at the man. "Speak your piece or get out."

"Hoo, I'm here about our friends in the west," Yoroi adjusted his trench coat. "It seems your continued success has them concerned."

"What? They don't want to give me the GX?" Yuuko rolled her eyes, "I was under the impression this was but a simple transaction. Then again, the fact a third party mediator is involved shows the Americans oh so great support of the UN."

"Hoo, quite the contrary, your success has the right people very eager, but the Alt V's are getting desperate." Yoroi pocketed his hands again. "The Americans want in and want to contribute as much as possible."

"So they can say they were all aboard if Alternative IV succeeds, and they tried their all if it fails." Takeru crossed his arms; he wasn't exactly working with the whole picture. But the moment Yoroi mentioned Alternative V supporters, the gears started turning. Like always, some assholes have to play the political game while their people are being eaten by fucking alien crabs.

"I care very little for reasons; just come out and say, what is it you want?" Yuuko said, dismissive of the Yoroi's words.

"Dinner for two and a show."

"Not interested," Yuuko crossed her arms and looked past Yoroi.

"Then perhaps, I should say what my handlers want." Yoroi grinned mischievously. "You see, there seem to be rumblings of a clandestine operation that occurred on November 11, 2001. More so, these rumors compile with some illicit communications with the Imperial forces at the Niigata Defense Line." Yoroi shifted his eyes at Takeru, "As it happens, a Battalion of BETA seemed to have penetrated the Niigata Defense Line, and that same Battalion was annihilated near the Gunma Prefecture border. In addition, they found two wrecked Shiranui brunt to crisp and missing black boxes."

"Hoo, they got you sniffing this out?" Yuuko smirked, "my, what a thing to worry about considering other rumblings I've heard."

Yoroi shrugged, "the Diet is concerned their international partners might be grazing on the wrong field."

"Shame indeed," Yuuko waved the implied accusation away. "Now, is that all?"

"Ho, there is one more thing you might find interesting," Yoroi straightened his trench coat. "Did you know the Dodo bird?"

"Pass," Yuuko glared at him.

"Shame, but perhaps this is more to your taste. Certain militaristic minds in the Ministry of Defense have reared their heads." Yoroi tipped his hat, "they whisper the old name Ayamine."

"!" Takeru's eyes widened.

"Oh, that was a very visceral reaction Shirogane-kun; something you'd like to share?" Yoroi gave him a side stare.

"Only if you tell me about the dodo bird," Takeru clicked his tongue.

"Hohoho, perhaps another time Shirogane-kun, but these individuals formed the Special Tactics Studies Group." Yoroi lifted a finger, "perhaps, more importantly, a man within the Defense Ministry who is holding the fort, sort of speak. Iwaya Eiji, he's trying to reel in the group."

"All of this hardly matters to me," Yuuko rolled her eyes.

"Perhaps, but if the militant faction were to rise, do you believe they would not take more hardline measures to a UN operation mere kilometers outside Tokyo?" Yoroi pocketed his hands again. "Suffice it to say, my handlers wish to know when the die is cast if Professor Kouzuki will remember her prominent supporters."

"I feel you're talking about the Imperial Diet, given their not-so-secret reliance on foreign aid." Once, he was ignorant, but thanks to Yuuhi, ignorant, he was no more. Thanks to shady backroom deals like this, humanity had dug its own grave. Takeru knew sooner or later he'd have to deal with this. Powers beyond his own tripping themselves over on a theoretical tomorrow without bloody making sure it happens first.

"Who's to say?" Yoroi shrugged with a smirk.

"Hey, old man, how about a favor for me?" Takeru crossed his arms.

"Hm?" Yoroi raised a brow.

"Get this message to Prime Minister Sakaki," Takeru crossed his arms. "If he truly believes in the idea that is Japan, then remember leaders should preserve themselves for the sake of the people. Dying for ideals doesn't solve the problem. Only leaves it in the hands of others."

"Hoo, interesting words, Shirogane-kun, but I don't see why I should deliver this message?" Yoroi's eyes shone with curiosity.

"I guess because you strike me as the kind of man who hates the waste of life that could be put to better use." Takeru shrugged, "or maybe because I train his daughter, and training accidents are terrible."

"Hohoho, very well, Shirogane-kun, you seem like an interesting guy. I will deliver your message with your name attached." Yoroi tipped his hat, "well, I suppose I should get going then." Yoroi walked to the door. With Kasumi still hiding behind him, Takeru gently nudged her aside, keeping himself firmly between Yoroi and her. "Oh, one last thing, please expect to entertain company. I dare say there's a reunion in the works, and the right people in the right places can stand to gain a great deal, hohoho." Yoroi left the office, where a security team was waiting for him.

"Please ensure Mr. Yoroi makes it safely out of the Base," Yuuko then made a dismissive shooing motion. The man looked once over his shoulder and gave them a coy smile. The door shut, and Yuuko and Takeru were quiet for a moment.

"I never expected you to have this side of you, Shirogane." Yuuko sat on one of the couches crossing her leg over the other.

"I learned after Babylon that this cloak and dagger bs is a necessary evil." Takeru clenched his fist, anger boiling in him.

"Yes, and the threat you made?" Yuuko raised a brow.

"A bluff, and a bad one at that; better Yoroi thinks I'm fumbling about than actually know what I'm doing." Takeru sighed and took a sit on the opposite couch. Kasumi hopped up next to him.

"So, you came down here for a reason?" Yuuko leaned back and rubbed her temples.

"Two," Takeru raised two fingers. "First, Mount Tengen will erupt tomorrow, and the Diet will ask for our help. I hate to admit it, but it's a waste of time. Just have the people forcefully evacuated." Takeru could pinpoint that was where his feelings for Meiya truly manifested in this world. But that was an utterly selfish reason to let the event happen. He hated doing this to that old woman, but Takeru couldn't afford a distraction when December was right around the corner. "Second, the Undersecretary will visit Tama on November 30; simultaneously, a rogue destroyer will be launched and set on a crash intercept with Yokohoma Base. We are saved by Tama, who uses an Over the Horizon Rifle to destroy the shuttle."

"Do you know who launches this shuttle?" Yuuko pinched her chin in thought.

"Best guess? Alternative V agents," Takeru threw his arms up.

"Curious because the Undersecretary is coming, of that I am aware. However, his visit is scheduled for December 5th." Yuuko frowned.

"Then this is a ripple," Takeru muttered.

"Hm?" Yuuko looked up at him.

"The changes we've already made, this ripple of the Undersecretary coming in a few days later. This is just the beginning, isn't it?"

"So it would seem, but it matters little. I will alert our Space Forces and have the Imperial Army evacuate those people at Mount Tengen forcefully." Yuuko stood up, "since you're here, it saves me the trouble of having Kasumi find you. I've told Marimo to take over your role in the exercise today. Follow me; you have a more pressing matter to attend to."

"Huh?" Takeru blinked, surprised.

Yuuko got up and walked to the door behind her desk. Takeru and Kasumi followed to a lab. At the center was a machine that looked like a gyroscope with a metal ball in the middle. "I've hit another dead end, and it's become quite clear I won't be able to finish Alternative IV without the rest of that equation."

"Shit," Takeru muttered.

"Yes, that's why I built this machine; I've been working on it for the better part of the month." She started the machine up, and the room lit up.

"What is this, Sensei? Takeru swallowed a lump in his throat.

"This, in layman's terms, is a Causality Engine. I will use it to get you back to your old world." Yuuko finished typing something on the computer, grabbed a CD in a case, and tossed it to Takeru.

Takeru caught the CD, "to do what exactly?"

"You're going to ask the other me to download the entire equation into that disk," Yuuko explained as a matter of fact.

Takeru tensed up and felt his heart hammering against his chest. "You're serious, aren't you?"

"Have I ever not been Shirogane?" Yuuko returned to the computer and continued to type away on the keyboard.

"Then, that day when you asked me if I wanted to go home again?" Takeru pursed his lips.

"As I said, it wasn't a test; I do not doubt your conviction to save our world. But, I had already encountered a slowdown with only part of the equation. So, I started working on this as a backup." Yuuko finished her work and turned to Takeru once more. "So, still have that drive and force of will to remain in this world?"

Takeru took a deep calming breath and stuffed the CD in his pocket. "Alright, do it, Sensei; send me back."


November 25, 2001

Takamura Yui entered her private quarters in the Shogun's residence. Another day of meetings and more bloody arguments she could shake a stick at. She closed the door behind her, walked to her bed, and plopped face-first into it. Her only support in the Defense Ministry was her uncle, and nobody admitted it, but the opposition to restarting the XFJ was being influenced by Lord Ikaruga. Yui couldn't understand why a Daimyo, especially Lord Ikaruga, was so interested in shelving this project. She'd call it national pride if it wasn't for the fact Lord Ikaruga was upfront about cooperation with the UN forces. Really, she was at a loss for words about this.

Yui sighed and sat up. She removed her boots, grabbed the remote from the vanity beside her bed, and turned on the news. She needed a change of pace, and thinking herself in circles wasn't gonna help her anyhow. Yuuya, I hope you and everyone else are doing okay. I asked around to see what you were doing. But the Americans have decided your service record is now a matter of 'national security.' I couldn't even get so much as a peep from the UN, either. Yui sighed and looked at the TV. Prime Minister Sakaki's speech about yesterday's events was playing.

"My fellow Japanese citizens know I did not take this action lightly. These citizens had resettled illegally, and had Mount Tengen not erupted, they could have lived there peacefully. But, when the lives of Japanese citizens were in danger, I believe I had to act despite their wishes," The Prime Minister leaned forward on his podium as if contemplating something. "Dyings for one's ideals never solved any problems. Instead, it leaves it in the hands of others. No, I will burden no one else with this burden. I shall take it upon myself to preserve the lives of our citizens so that we may find a better path forward."

"An interesting sentiment, to be sure." Yui reached into her collar and pulled out her father's pocket watch. "Father, if the people's wishes are adamant, to the point of dying. Does anyone really have the right to deny them this? Yet, is it not the government's job to protect its citizens?" There was no easy answer, Yui knew this, and the entire situation was only exasperated by the grumblings of the so-called Special Tactics Studies Group. Yui put her father's watch on the vanity and started to work on her uniform.

A knock distracted her from her task, and she resisted the urge to sigh again. "One moment please," Yui made herself presentable again and donned her boots. She opened the door and instantly straightened her back. "Your Highness," Yui bowed low before Koubuin Yuuhi, Shogun of Japan.

"1st Lieutenant Takamura, please excuse our intrusion; please rise." Yuuhi bowed her head politely to her retainer.

Our? Yui straightened, and just a few steps behind was Prime Minister Sakaki Korechaki. Yui politely bowed before the Prime Minister. "Please, it is no trouble; come in, Your Highness, Prime Minister Sakaki." Yui stepped aside and allowed Yuuhi and Sakaki to walk inside. Behind them, two Royal Guards flanked the doors, and Yuuhi's personal retainer, Tsukuyomi Maya, entered behind, closing the door and standing in front of it.

"We thank you for your time and promise to make this short. With that said, I'm afraid I will impose on you, 1st Lieutenant Takamura." Yuuhi, with hands folded neatly before her, bowed her head again.

"Indeed, please understand what we do now is for the sake of Japan." Sakaki bowed, and though Yuki was of noble blood, the Prime Minister's bow was dangerously close to what one would reserve only for the Emperor and the Shogun.

"Please, I live to serve at the Shogun's pleasure," Yui straightened at attention. "wield me as you see fit, Your Highness."

"There may be complications in the near future, and steps must be taken to ensure we do not cause our people undue suffering." Yuuhi began. "My station does not allow me to act without the Diet's consent. However, as a member of the Royal Guard, your body is solely subject to mine and the Emperor's will." Yuuhi looked to Maya, who nodded. Maya opened the door, and a Royal Guard walked, holding the Shoguns Katana flat in their palms. "I wish for you to carry this symbol and mine royal words to the commander of the UN 11th Forces at Yokohoma Base."

"Your Highness, Prime Minister, forgive my impertinence, but may I ask why I was chosen?" Yui bowed in submission.

Yuuhi looked at the youngest Takamura and smiled. "My wish, and that of Prime Minister Sakaki, has always been the prosperity of Japan. It is also our wish to protect our people from the enemy of all mankind."

"Yes, though I admit it grates other members of the Diet and me. Pride alone cannot protect Japan from the BETA. We must provide a unified front to survive as a country and species." Prime Minister Sakaki closed his eyes. "1st Lieutenant Takamura, tell me, what were your feelings towards the UN forces that participated in the XFJ project?"

Yuuya. Yui's mind immediately thought of him. The man that had caused her no end of headaches, who was so stubbornly American. The man who was hurting and had lived a life of hardship and prejudice. Yet, that same man still proudly called the United States his country. Yui also thought of all the members of Argos Test Flight. People who had lost their motherlands to the BETA but persevered and fought as one despite cultural differences. A smile spread slowly across Yui's face. "They are brave men and women, some who have lost their homes to the BETA. Yet, each day they stood side by side and fought for mankind."

"What of the Americans?" Sakaki asked next.

"Arrogant," Yui immediately responded. But the smile never left her face. More so, when Sakaki even said Americans, only one came to Yui's mind. "They are loud and curse worse than sailors. They can be stubborn to the point of frustration and voice their opinions about everything!" Yui's smile grew to a full-on grin. "They are also stupidly brave; they fly directly at danger and quote Hollywood movies as they do. They are also touchy, slap each other's backs, and put their arms around total strangers; they only met." Yui brought her hand over her heart, "they practically adopt anyone who stands with them on the field of battle. They risk their lives for anyone who fights with them. They call those who have never even seen the United States brothers and cry tears for the ones they could not save American or not." Yui took a deep breath and let it out. "Americans are not perfect, and they are not saints, but whatever their government's issues may be. American soldiers can be counted on to fight for mankind."

Yuuhi smiled and shared a look with Sakaki. "That is why we chose you, 1st Lieutenant Takamura."

"Yes, it gives my soul peace that should I fall today. The next generation is willing to forgive the actions of men driven to make difficult choices." Sakaki sighed and reached into his coat pocket and produced two letters. One sealed with the official seal of the Imperial Diet Administrative office. The other was a simple envelope sealed with a wax drop. On the simple Envelop, simply read Chizuru.

"Please, 1st Lieutenant Takamura, deliver these words to the Commander of the UN 11th Force. Please, with all due haste, neglect, not the defense of our people. Please send help to the Niigata Defense Line post haste."

Yui pursed her lips and nodded. "It shall be done, Your Highness."

"Here," Sakaki handed her the official letter. "This is a letter containing the official seal of the Imperial Diet. Should hostilities break out, the Empire of Japan formally requests the aid of the UN, and as per the Japan-US Security agreement, we request the aid of any nearby US forces."

Yui took the letter with both hands and bowed politely. "I shall deliver this to the Base Commander personally."

"One more thing, please feel free to decline." Sakaki held the simple envelope in his hand. "Could you deliver this letter to my daughter, Sakaki Chizuru? She's stationed as a cadet at Yokohoma Base."

"Of course, Prime Minister Sakaki," Yui took the letter eagerly. Memories of her father briefly flashed in her mind's eye. Yui looked at both letters and nodded, "very well, I shall carry out my assignment post haste. But may I ask one more question?"

"Please do, 1st Lieutenant Takamura," Yuuhi nodded.

"Do you truly believe the Special Tactics Study Group is capable of staging a coup d'etat?" Yui looked into the Shogun's eyes, hoping this was all just over preparation.

"I wish I could deny this, but we would only take these precautions if we truly thought it inevitable." Yuuhi conceived a slight frown on her lips.

"Then I shall do my duty," Yui bowed.

Maya stepped up and bowed to Yuuhi, who nodded for her to continue."Very well, 1st Lieutenant Takamura, you will report to 1st Lieutenant Tsukuyomi Mana and join her 19th Independent Guard Flight. Once we leave, please make preparations quickly. Your TSF is already being prepared and boarded into a Type-87 Maintenance trailer. You will depart with the trailer as soon as you are able. Are there any further questions?"

"No, Mam!" Yui saluted smartly.

"Very well, good luck, 1st Lieutenant. May the winds of victory be at your back." Maya saluted in return, and everyone left. Once the door closed, Yui sprang into action. Yuuya, it seems no country is without its political spats. I only hope this is not a repeat of Kamchatka.

God damn, longest chapter so far! Anyways, things are afoot, and slowly but surely, were moving to the end of the first act. I also hope I was able to properly represent the man, the myth, the legend himself, Yoroi Sakon. He's always stuck with me as a fascinating character. Also, boom, reversed yall; as I said before, there is no half-blood relation to Yui! Instead, Eiji got busy with Yuuya's mom. Once more, this is for my own personal selfish reasons, but hey, there we go! Hope you guys enjoy reading this monster as much as I enjoyed writing it!

Also, if you guys want a treat? Read the fight between Takeru and the girls while listening to Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown "Archange." I was listening to this song and took inspiration from Mister X himself when writing this fight. A fight between an Ace and a Flight still wet behind their ears. The part when Takeru comes out behind the broken TSF, and he flies up and stares at the girls? When I was writing that, the part of the song where the chorus starts singing fast played. It was so cool in my head. But I digress; thank you all for your continued support; those reviews make my day.

Edit 11/29/2022: This is a bit of an experimental chapter. Please let me know if the length is too much. If so, I will keep em to a 9k limit. It won't be a hard 9k but you know.