Greetings!. So here is the thing, the original author stopped writing this wonderful story around 2009 but still uploaded 4 more chapters before stop, I find myself I need to finish the remaining chapters for all of you who have been reading this since the beginning. I do hope the original author is ok since it seems it has fallen out of earth O.o
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- Umi, that was truly memorable! Geo - complimented with warm handshake and a bright smile that revealed well-kept teeth - Eagle really was not expecting it, no one really and I totally forgot to take a picture of the face of my commander...
- Geo, don't exaggerate – manage to say the knight between laughs.
- He doesn't - Zazu interceded – I think the poor Eagle will think twice before deciding for you.
- Yes, I'll have to be very careful with you from now on.
The embarrassment of the trio was more than evident and faces of innocence and half apologizes all but similar to the other, were not fooling anyone. Eagle watched them, leaning to one side of the door which Geo usually used for rest and eat candies. Despite the smile on his face, there was something serious in his semblance, which indicated to Umi that her audacity was going to have a high price to pay.
- Geo, I think you still have to check some paperwork from yesterday, and Zazu, could you check the D series of the new combat robots? I think there's a slight lag in the activation of the defense shield.
No sooner had he said that, both the sub-commander and engineer rushed to evacuate the place, leaving the girl all alone to face that pair of golden eyes resting on her. She was a little nervous, but not frightened and frankly she knew that she would repeat her actions a thousand times if necessary.
It was the laugh of the man in front of her which ended up eliminating any negative thoughts. It was his normal laughter, not the one of a man planning a sinister revenge and that reassured enough to confess - You know that talking behind someone's back that way can cause arrhythmias and even heart attacks?
- Really? –ending his laughter – I never have guessed that - said with feigned innocence – Of course I would have never imagine for you to put myself in such a situation without notice.
- What situation? She said with her voice most innocent voice.
- Umi...
Now she was the one laughing - I'm sorry, but you didn't let me other way out – she sat on one of the lounge chairs - Where are they now?
- My father is with them now - breathed with relief.
- Was so terrible? -After releasing a small laugh.
-I would not said it that way, but ... it was somewhat uncomfortable at first - he sat in the chair next to her- Your parents are nice, don't misunderstand me – he had his elbows on his knees and was leaning forward slightly.
- But?
- Don't ever do me something like that – he looked her straight in the eye.
- Understood... - She managed to whisper to the intensity and authority of his gaze.
Seeing her like that, he decided to soften the gaze. After all, he didn't want to scare the friend who had missed so much. Also, he didn't like seeing her intimidated, much less for it.
I know you didn't like for me to decide for you, but I did believing that was the best option at the time. You and the others would have gotten into trouble if you girls didn't return and I didn't want that for you. Also, you have done enough for me. If it wasn't for your quick reaction and you looking for Alcar...
- We will never know – resting her hand on his, but to do so he had to lean towards him - I prefer not to think about that alternative.
- I don't like it me very much either, but it's true. My father liked you a lot, but after that he definitely has you on an altar.
- Very well, if the idea was for me to be ashamed, you did it.
- That was not the original intention, but it's good to know.
- Oh! You are so annoying – she withdrew her hand from his with a gesture of annoyance and turned away from him.
He laughed. Then he stared at her in a way that aroused great curiosity in her. It was almost as if he was meditating something of profound importance, but decided not to give the final conclusion despite having it in front of his nose.
- Are you really just fourteen years old? – He said finally and yet he looked unconvinced.
- Huh? Yes, that's my age – she answered without understanding what had to do with the conversation - but not by much, in three months I turn fifteen.
- Fifteen years ... So young...
- Excuse me?
- Is just that now I come to realize how young you are, merely a child - by the girl's face he could tell how badly the comment had sink on her and quickly added – It has nothing to do with your character, in fact by your maturity anyone could think that you are older. I myself tend to forget that you're the same age as Hikaru.
- What comparison! –She stood up and struck a pose rather defensive and both arms crossed at the front - If you haven't noticed, Hikaru looks much smaller than she really is. I still remember our first time in Cefiro, Fuu and I thought she was no more than twelve.
- Yes, he told me that – trying to avoid his laugh.
- Why this sudden concern for our age? Don't tell me you doubt our ability as magic knights just for that?
- Just a minute, Miss, I didn't say that – he suddenly become very serious, no more laughter to control.
- But that's what it seems – she turned with his back completely towards him and went to one of the windows. She didn't saw him stand up and go to her, she didn't even heard him, that military training had made his steps very quiet - And anyway, who are you to judge that? Zazu is your machine engineer and he is only a year older than me. You have nineteen and you are already a captain!
- You misunderstood me – the two steps distance that was now between them, made her wince. Eagle noticed, but said nothing about it - I didn't mean to make you feel bad – there was something sweet in the tone of his voice, but annoyed as she was, she didn't notice.
- So what? -She kept her back towards him.
- The situation with your parents was uncomfortable because I didn't knew what reactions expect from them. It is true that I have faced worse things, but always with a lot of information. A battle can be fierce and one to be at a great disadvantage, but believe me the slightest knowledge of what awaits you greatly relieves the burden. And in my particular case, I can see my pros, however few they may be, and improvise.
- Very well, I think it became clear to me that you felt cornered- she said curtly - what I don't understand is what that has to do with me having fourteen.
Eagle sighed - When I am faced with something unexpectedly, I usually try to analyze and contrast it with something I already know - he explained - the closest thing to this was when one of my subordinates have been injured or killed.
- But I'm perfectly! –she had turned by this moment.
And believe me, I'm happy about it, but please let me continue -more than angry, now Umi looked puzzled and somewhat alarmed- Face their families after an accident or death ... I always found it difficult and painful, but I insist that that this was more difficult to handle - His voice, always so sure, now seemed to have trouble getting out of his mouth - At least the family whom I had to deal before, knew to what kind of danger their children were exposed as members of the autozamita army. With your parents the story was very different.
- Eagle ... - forgotten all about her annoyance and watched almost with apprehension.
- So far, I don't know how much you have told them about you being a magic knight. You are energetic and determined, able to fend for yourself and help to those you love, I'm sure they know that and are proud of it. But the truth is that until a few days ago, I doubt they have imagined you as something more than their beloved daughter. Their only daughter, non-less! - It was obvious that this fact still make him feel uncomfortable.
- So much you care about that?
I can't help myself put in their shoe, that's all - no longer looking at her but the ground.
She further shortened the distance between them and removed the few strands that had covered his eyes – Don't think any longer about it. True, were somewhat stunned at first ... - she admitted, in a way that tore a tiny smile at the young man – but they have already gotten over it.
- Are you sure? – He asked somewhat incredulously.
- Yes, sure - she said – We, Ryuzaki overcome quickly to surprises. Also, the stay in Cefiro helped them a lot before coming here. Guru Clef – a slight blush tinged her cheeks - was very kind and patient with them. Well, them and the rest.
- The rest? –he was interested.
- You really didn't thought it was odd than Lantis being so worried about your health, returned to Cefiro so suddenly and for me to had everything ready to go in just one day? She asked playfully.
- What you're saying is that your family was not the only one to hear the news, right?
- Basically- smiled - Poor Lantis, for sure he is still giving explanations to his future in-laws, especially the two younger ones.
- Some friend! He knew all three days before me, and did not say anything!
- He didn't have time, Hikaru told him once we were in Cefiro. Besides I had understood you were in the middle of your treatment.
- Yes, Tatra was with me - he laughed- That Lantis, anyway, I deserve for trying to invade your planet.
With a more relaxed mood and misunderstandings and discomfort resolved, the conversation became lighter and at the end of this the commander did know what happened during the absence of Umi. Eagle willingly laughed when she told him about the adventures of his friend with the brothers Hikaru and although still somewhat resent him for having withheld information, he couldn't help but feel some compassion for the poor Cail.
- I see, they will test him for a while. At least the older one is supporting.
-Satoru is very mature and understanding. On the other hand the others... Anyway, there are good people, just a little over-protective. I am sure that as soon as they realize that Lantis would give his life to protect Hikaru and that he loves her more than anything, they will calm down and will call him brother.
- I will love to torture him when I see him.
- Eagle!
- What? Can't I playing innocents pranks to my friends? - He asked in his best "good boy" face.
- Yes, but you ... – Sigh - Just don't overdo it.
Commander word – he touched his heart.
Umi sighed again. At nineteen, with a charisma that earned him the affection and confidence of his subordinates and peers, and the brain of a consummate politician and military strategist, he could behave like a real child at times. And yet it was this naughty child with easy and honest talk, he had missed so much. She felt that she could talk about anything with him. Unconsciously, she smiled at the thought.
- I think I have no choice but believe you – she told him like saying "God help me"
- Hey!
- We have talked a lot about me and Cefiro - without paying the slightest attention to him - now I want to hear from you and Autozam. Nothing that I can consider interesting?
- Well now that you mention it ... You'll never guess who begins to greatly care for all that has to do with a certain princess.
- Anyone interested in Tatra? Romantically? Do Say?
- I could not be secure yet - began thoughtfully and walk around the room with his eyes closed and both arms behind his back - Is too recent but with the right push ... Who knows where it could end the feelings of some sub-commander- he stopped and I glanced sideways at a very stunned Umi.
- Geo! - cried when she was finally able to react - Geo is in lo ...! Eagle quickly put his hand in her mouth to prevent any other sound.
- Shhhh! Not so hard - his voice was firm, but barely a whisper - I don't think he would like the whole planet to know -released her and seeing her embarrassed by his reaction, smiled to restore her confidence - Like I said, I can't say, but I can tell you that she likes and feels a strong admiration for his nature.
She is an excellent person- he said with some pride.
- And also a great warrior.
- Did you see her fight? - she was surprised - but she never fights unless necessary.
It's not that we had seen her in combat, at least not the first time -he said, as if that were obvious from the personality of the young princess - but we did saw an impressive display of speed, precision and agility, I was not impressed with someone since the first time I fought against Lantis.
- Would you kindly explain what happened? Said the anxious and terribly impatient Umi.
- It happened after one of our sessions, - he began - Although it significantly reduced my stress after it, the truth is that I was not quite right at the end - Umi declined to comment, but for the look of her eyes and the sudden rigidity of her lips, he could tell that she was not happy to hear that – I am all right, you have nothing of worry about. I have made progress since you were gone.
- Are you sure you aren't saying this just to calm me down? She asked, recalling his inclination to ignore his own problems.
- I do not blame you for thinking that, but I'm fine, really - he said with conviction - Where was I? Ah, yes! Tatra didn't like seeing me in that state. I tried to convince her that all that I needed was some rest, but she refused to leave me alone. She said the atmosphere of the room ended full after my emotional therapy and that if I really wanted to rest it was best to go for a walk. And so, before I knew it, I was in an elevator with her and Geo, walking to one of the recreational areas.
- Also Geo?
- He said that we needed a tour guide.
Umi laughed naturally without intention of being discrete - With the sense of direction she has and all the information you gave us about the surroundings of the presidential palace, to me, It seems that actually she called Geo to ensure you will not escape plus making you feel better.
- Do you think I didn't know that? The point is that I let myself be carried away by these two and the truth is that I do not regret it - seeing his face lit by memories, she didn't have a doubt about that - Geo made sure that we were going to a place I had not been before.
- I thought you knew all around.
- That area was just under construction when I went with my fleet to Cefiro. They didn't take long to enable it and make it lively for everyone, but because of my coma and then my recovery, I was unable to saw it until that day.
- I see that you like it.
- Yes ... Maybe I will take you there later on - added excitedly - Anyway, we were a long time wandering around the place, the atmosphere there is very nice, with all those kids running around and the authentic nature ... Soon I felt much better and I started to enjoy without thinking about anything else.
- You were relaxed then.
- Geo got hungry and ended up inviting us some takeout, she looked at him with a face of "Why am I not surprised?" – he only replied "What? There is nothing wrong with eating the trick is not let it go off hand."
- Aha ... Well, what happened after he invited you guys?
- We sat down to eat and talk under a tree in the center of the green areas. We had shared a lot when we heard screams and saw some people very anxious and then running.
- What happened? She seemed restless.
- One of the new combat training robots was out of control. Apparently they were taking it to the academy while making some check up on the transport compartment but something went wrong. It gave us a scare.
- When you say combat robot, you mean one like yours, right?
- No. Like I said it was one of training. They are much smaller, although they do are at least five feet tall.
- But I've seen their training robots and are huge!
- You're confusing them with the simulation ones.
- Is not it the same?
- No. A training robot is used to prepare soldiers to direct combat that is when you are beyond machine or vehicle. A simulator instead is used to familiarize them with the devices of the combat robots and as training for tournaments. The first was dysfunctional.
- I think I understand now – she said after processing the information - what did they do then with that thing loose?
- For starters, call Zazu to give notice and sent a squadron of control, and latter, try to divert his attention from civilians and protect them.
- So guys were the decoy.
And it worked pretty well we even make it fall - said with some pride – of course we didn't thought that the laser will start shooting has result of the fall, there is a mechanism to prevent this from happening still, the laser almost hit a child Umi face said a thousand words – it's okay, he's fine. Tatra intervened just in time.
- She put him out of the way?
- She didn't have the time, it was too fast. What she did was shield him.
- WHAT? -Before realized she was practically standing on top of the commander.
- Not with her body, woman! She used a shield! - Said at the edge of laughter because of her reaction.
- You had have told me this before! - Said Umi defensively and with some color on the cheeks, then she let out a sigh of relief - The shield was part of her magic defense, right?
- Yes - without warning he began to laugh with all the force of his lungs leaving a shocked girl – you should have seen my face and Geo's! ... Easily we could have swallowed someone – he coughed a little – To see a princess get out of the blue a shield and protect herself an a helpless child ... – Slowly his laugh began to subside - And that was not all.
- Is there more?
The boy nodded – Yes, the lighting she repelled hit a tree branch, a fairly thick one, but still it was cut – he was back to serious mode – The boy was just saved by the laser hit and now the two were in danger again.
- It can never be simple, right? -Reasoned somewhat dissatisfied.
- No, It rarely is – there was silent for a few seconds, then he continued narrating the facts - Geo was the one who saved the small boy of being crushed, holding onto the branch with his own arms. Even for him was an important effort. His hands got hurt for the friction. It didn't take me long to go help him and the two manage to left the branch on the ground, we make sure that the little boy was okay. But then we heard a scream and it was only then that we realized there was a little girl several feet up hanging over our heads. The girl could barely hold herself and fear did not help much and then she just lost her hold and started falling – by then Eagle had his forehead resting on both hands, with a expression rather grim, for Umi it was very clear that he still felt guilt for what might have happened - if it were not for Tatra ... she had seen her long before us ... she came out of nowhere and doing acrobatics from branch to branch, caught the little girl before she hit the ground.
- Thank god - she said putting her hand on her chest with relief - Apparently she is still as agile and alert as I remember.
- Don't doubt about that - Anyway, after that Geo was really fascinated with her. Like I said, for now it could be nothing more than a great admiration and appreciation, but the truth is that it is very difficult to produce such a profound impact on him.
- I do not blame him, it's hard to imagine someone like her, so relaxed and seemingly distracted taking actions so precise. I wonder who will remember me? - She asked with an amused smile as she looked straight into his eyes with a more than significant look.
They keep talking a good time together, until they were joined by Caldina and the mentioned princess. Both were happy to have Umi again between them. The dancer was somewhat upset because she didn't went directly to see her, but that did not stop her of almost throw both of them it to the floor after a warm hug. At that moment the girl was still trapped in her arms and being a victim of affectionate reproach.
Tatra smiled delighted with the scene. Seeing Umi uncomfortable and fascinated at the same time with someone way of welcoming was something not seen very often. It almost looked like a little girl thrilled to visit a beloved aunt, but at the same time you feel overwhelmed with so much display of affection.
And the commander, he just smiled with satisfaction. Although as Tatra noted, it was a smile much fuller of life than the last ones on the recent days. Not that those smiles have been faked, but the one on his lips at this time surpassed all in warmth. No doubt the change had to do with the positive influence of the bluenette and that did not escape the eyes of the princess, who immediately planned to use that in favor of her patient.