Holy shit, fifth chapter
I'm not even sure I'm a co-writer, I mean... just, read this. Tempest35 is awesome and he should feel awesome.
Infinite Stratos
-The Mirror Universe-
Disclaimer:
Izuru Yumizuru
And everyone else!
Chapter 03: Summer and Hilarity Final Part
High above the Pacific Ocean, a trio of Infinite Stratos units soared across the sky at Mach 1.8. All three shared similarly built, sharp-angled humanoid frames and large main thrusters; their differences lay in their color schemes and special equipment on their backs.
The silver-platinum colored one has large, two pairs of semi-transparent wings, which is rather unusual (and fragile looking). Its entire frame laced with green lining and black markings. A set of black colored Kanji stamped on its prominent left side gauntlet read as [Fujin] – Wind God.
The gold-plated one adorned with various fins sticking out at the shoulders, forearm protectors, hips and knees also came with rather solid backpack implements. Blue trimming and the occasional red splash of color complement the frame nicely. On both its shoulders, red kanji have been engraved on each of them - [Rai] and [Jin] – Lightning God.
In the center, a decidedly aqua blue-shaded unit sported a trio of metallic tubes that looked hollow at first glance. Compared to the other units, this particular unit looked sleeker and more streamlined than its counterparts. Its entire body is outfitted with various pods and armor plating, made its presence prominent and more solidly built compared to the other two. The kanji on this unit was engraved with blue crystal-like material on each leg, read as [Sui] and [Jin] respectively – Sea God.
"[Suijin is really faster than I expected,]" Ikkun marveled at the IS next to him in flight. "[Isn't it supposed to be an aquatic I.S.?]"
"[Indeed,]" Kanzashi replied, secretly happy to discuss some of the particulars with someone. "[Although I have yet to field test it, Suijin is engineered to compensate for sustaining the water pressure, extra payload and other equipment. Though, you can't really expect it to move as well outside water.]"
"[Thus the improved shielding,]" Icchan added.
"[Right,]" Kanzashi nodded. She glanced at her display. "[Our target is 15 kilometers away, prepare to engage.]"
"[Roger.]"
Three hours of constant combat simulations later, three teenagers walked out, feeling rather exhausted from the simulator. The simulators itself were intended to emulate the effect of real I.S. use and mental strain on the pilot. Between the required synchronicity of the trainee and the complexity of a real core system, the entire simulation system was not some small device that could fit inside a closet, but could easily fit inside a small building.
As soon as they walked outside, a couple of specialists surrounded them like bees to flowers. Ikkun could say with certainty that he really wasn't accustomed to this level of attention, especially since all of the techs and specialists were women.
Due to the stipulation that I.S. would only activate for females, most if not all people working in the field of Infinite Stratos were that of female gender.
The few exceptions to the rule were men who made a breakthrough in reverse engineering the science and technology of Infinite Stratuo and applied them to other fields entirely, or those from mega-corporations handling the development and production of I.S. itself. This is partly the reason why he's interested in Genetic Engineering rather than Mechanical.
Bombarded with questions that sometimes flew over his head, Ikkun couldn't help but sighed.
"It's really hard to catch up, eh," he muttered.
"Well, ya shouldn't get cocky. Even Lingyin has some problems with this part despite having six months of accelerated, simplified training," Icchan said bluntly whilst crossing her arms.
"I won't, but they keep treating me as if I'm equal to both of you," he complained to her. "I am not a cadet rep, and they shouldn't expect me to be on par with you guys."
Kanzashi glanced aside to hide her amusement.
"But you can fight Kanzashi to a standstill; discrediting your ability like that is the same as looking down at her." Icchan reprimanded him. Honestly, as talented as he was, he still had that habit of downplaying his skills.
"But the machine type is already-"
"Even then that doesn't mean anything -"
"The theoretical side of things-"
"Experience and Activation time aside, this is-"
"Here we go again" Kanzashi huffed at them. These two, this… 'couple', could get along really well about 94% of the time but once they got into an argument, it'll take up to several HOURS to resolve.
She genuinely felt like she was the third wheel sometimes, but at the same time, lacking Chifuyu's presence around meant SOMEONE had to stop their stubborn bickering. And since no one else really cared for it, Kanzashi had to step up.
"Aren't you two going to the festival tonight?"
"Ah!" The both of them suddenly blinked comically in the exact same manner.
"You better go prepare yourself then." She waved her hand, "I'm going to shower first, unless you want to join."
"You should wait until your body cool down, going directly to the shower is bad for your health," both Ichika said, in almost teacher-like voice, made Kanzashi twitch in response.
"I. DON'T. CARE." Kanzashi stuck her tongue and left in a huff, leaving the two super-dense teenagers dumbfounded.
~333~
*SHINK*
The sword cut effortlessly through the air, delivering a powerful yet elegant strike to the tatami mat, cutting it midway down the length.
"HAA-UP!" Two more strikes followed in quick succession to the first, splitting the separated piece even further as it fell to the mat, splitting apart on impact.
"You've get even faster than before, Houki-chan."
Drawing the sword over the scabbard, she calmly sheathed the blade. "Ah, yes, Yukiko-Obaasan," Houki nodded as her aunty passed her.
She looked at the other sword hanging on her waist, the memento of her father, probably the only men she ever paid true respect. Hard working and always calm no matter what, even during the crisis ten years ago, social transition after it, as well as impossibly selfish daughter, he still have his soul as a warrior.
For a while, Houki had lost sight of her true path to become the inheritor of the Shinonono style of Swordplay. For a warrior, courage and power are necessity, but patience is a virtue.
If not for Ichika's skill and control, the mission probably should end in a failure.
For a while, Houki wanted to reconsider such a position, but Chifuyu-san reminded her (i.e. bashed it into her head) that to become a master is not an easy path. As such, Houki cannot give up solely because of a single mistake; such as losing herself in flames of wrath.
"When swinging swords, the edge should never touch other weapons. Also, a fatal blow must be dealt while the sword is close," she repeated to herself
"One must draw the sword faster than the enemy, and the first hit must kill the enemy immediately."
"Akaru Giyou," a male voice gently noted, causing Houki to reflexively react and turn around.
"Ah," she glanced at the now familiar faces at the doorway.
It was Icchan and Ikkun…
"You know this as well," Houki spoke in a subdued manner.
"Just remembered recently," he shrugged.
"Well, unless you use Yukihira it's impossible to fully utilize the ancient Giyou-ken like that in I.S. combat" Houki sighed. "Anyway, sorry for asking you so early. The festival won't begin until dusk."
"It's okay, I want to meet Yukiko-obaasan as well," Icchan gave a smile like a mischievous cat, which Houki decided as a sign of her being overexcited (not the first time, definitely).
"I also need to introduce this Ichika to her," she tilted her head at her male companion.
"To introduce him as your boyfriend," Houki held her mouth to avoid laughing too hard. "She will be happy for sure."
"If you still have enough energy to joke around like that, you didn't train hard enough," the much taller girl slapped Houki on her back uncaringly. Houki felt like retaliating but refrained from doing so, besides, it wouldn't matter since he was also equally as dense if his head-tilting reaction was any indication.
"Yukiko-Obaasan is in the back of the temple," the brunette smiled. "Go and greet her already."
"Alright, let's go, c'mon," Icchan grabbed his wrist and tugged him along with an eager expression on her face.
Houki watched them go, deciding to continue her training for a little while longer. Letting the summer breeze wash the fatigue and discomfort off her body, however, she felt her mind was being plagued by something… Something that she had thought had forgotten long ago…
Ah, it was that after all…
Spirit of a warrior… The urge to compete… The desire of challenge and to be challenged.
Houki want to test him; swordsman can communicate through their sword because their swords are the extension of their souls. Cutting the final target without hesitation, Houki went to polish and clean her sword.
…
"Obaasan~!"
"Ah, Icchan, long time no see," the 40 year-old woman smiled, before pulling her sleeve to avoid possible dirt or any other filth from attaching themselves as she carried a bucket of water. "My, you've grown taller again don't you?"
"Hee-hee" the brunette tomboy smiled, letting go of Ichika's wrist and putting her hand behind her head.
"Don't go overboard with your I.S. training dear, when Houki of all people show her concern, I almost had a heart attack."
"Don't worry, I won't," Icchan nodded. "Anyway, I think you haven't meet Ikkun directly, haven't you?" She stepped aside to let her see him fully.
"A pleasure to meet you, ma'am," he bowed respectfully.
The woman set her gaze upon him, her eyes tracing over his appearance before breaking into a soft chuckle. "My, my, what a handsome young man you have here, Icchan. My name is Shinonono Yukiko. It is my pleasure to meet you."
Both Ichika just tilted their heads inward causing them to accidentally head-butting and flinched whilst holding their heads in a comical fashion.
"Oww, but how can you guess if you haven't saw him yet?"
"A woman's instinct, Icchan," Yukiko just ruffled the girl's hair affectionately. "Eventually you'll know."
~333~
"It's decided then."
"Wait no! Please repeat what you said again!" Ikkun had his hands in the air as if to ward off her words.
"I said I want to challenge you into a sparring," Houki huffed, trying to ignore the fact that she was blushing ever so slightly. "How could you possibly miss that?"
Ikkun was flabbergasted. On one hand, it was very in character of her. The both of them were swordsmen and Houki was really, really good. On the other hand, she's nuts – like really, really nuts. If both Ichikas had to put it into words, Houki was a hardcore battle junkie.
"Of course I don't mean all-out battle, idiot," Houki chided, reading his confused expression. "Swords only, no PIC, shield on."
Ikkun sighed; there was no way he'd run from this. From the moment Icchan offered her hand to him back when he first came to this 'place', he had decided to stand up for himself. To stand up against the perceptions and expectations that was placed upon him by everyone – even his own version of Chifuyu-nee. He never wanted to disappoint her but what's the use if he was disappointed in himself?
And so five minutes after the issued challenge, he stepped into his usual fighting stance as the gold-hilted sword began to materialize in his grasp. Remnants of Yukihira's base design were seen in the blade's curved design that lay between the katana and a European saber. The only thing drastically different was that it was as long as he was tall. His grip instinctively tightened on the blackened hilt. This sword was a memento, a remembrance of his previous life.
"What a unique sword you have there," Houki said, gesturing her arms out to either side. Her two katana were summoned to her outstretched hands. They are a bit larger, both in length and thickness than 'normal' Katana, and their edge gleaming softly.
While most Nito Ryuu had a katana paired with a wakazashi or a short sword, Houki used blades of similar length and weight. This created an early problem for her since most of the twin sword techniques were made with the left-handed blade being shorter than the right but in her own right, Houki was a genius as well. "What is its name," she asked Ichika respectfully. For her, the name of a weapon was the same as the name of a treasured companion – asking for such a thing was not a light matter.
Ichika's eyes lowered to the weapon held in his hand. Yukihira Nigata.
No, not any more. Yukihira Nigata was a power lent by his sister to protect him. The moment the sword reforged and milled into something more than giant slab of metal is the moment he was reborn. To acquire his sister's inheritance was not his goal, but a means to achieve his true goal. The sword no longer belonged to her. This sword is the extension of his soul. He smiled as he glanced upward at Houki again.
"天羽々斬 (-Ame No Habakiri-)," he told her, a quiet light in his eyes. While it was almost blasphemous to name a modern weapon after a revered National Treasure, Ichika, however, decided that he needed to carry the sword with a similar pride.
"Beautiful name for a beautiful sword," Houki nodded respectfully, acknowledging the intricate, majestic design of the blade. "Hopefully you deserve to wield it," she added as she adopted her usual starting stance.
Ikkun nodded, shortly before held his sword in front in a gedan posture variation. He knew the true gamebreaking ability of Houki's swords… and very high chance that she won't use them to honor the fact that this is purely dependent on their skill alone.
"The rule us the first one to have their shield energy fall to '0' lose," Icchan announced, raising a shinai up. She gave both combatants a final glance before drawing in a deep breath. "HAJIME," she cried, bringing the bamboo sword down against the ground, the sharp cracking sound echoed throughout the field like a pistol shot.
To a layman observer who did not have much knowledge, such as the unfortunate old man pushing his cart, both teenagers simply disappeared and reappeared again in the center of the field, sparks flying as three blades clashed violently. Houki retreated slightly, surprised by the force of his strike only for Ikkun to use this chance to brutally grind his sword across in a horizontal swipe, pushing her blades back and cutting at her shield but failing to destroy it.
Houki leaped back out of range to reset herself. "I suppose I underestimated you," Houki gave a smirk before closing her eyes for a moment, her swords lowering in front of her face…and then she charged right for him, her right hand swinging down for the top of his head.
"Tch!" He pulled his sword back in a high defensive posture to guard his head. Even as he did so, his eyes glanced to her left blade just as she began the thrust towards his exposed abdomen… He changed his block into a swing, drawing the handle down and around to perform an inside parry with the sword guard as he stepped out, her blade barely nicking his shield.
"He knew!" She gritted her teeth as she remembered that he had been familiarized with her family dual sword style and techniques. Even so, for him to predict that technique… She received another surprise as he had continued the parry motion until he had captured her left sword against his guard and her right sword point was off-line, giving him a clear shot towards her midsection. She quickly stepped her left foot forward and pushed her left arm across while drawing her right sword back to slash at him, trying to disrupt his thrusting movement.
Her attack caught his sword guard, knocking it offline enough for his thrust to miss its intended target. Using her right arm's momentum, she doubled it back in front, slicing upward, trying to keep Ikkun's sword occupied with her left sword enough to cut at him.
Stepping back, he angled his sword down sharply and made a stab towards the ground to intercept Houki's attack. As he did so, Houki rotated her left wrist in an inward circle, dislodging her left blade from his. Continuing the motion, she brought the sword back around over Ichika's head.
*CLANG!*
To say that Houki was surprised that he had blocked it was definitely an understatement. Gritting her teeth, she brought her right sword up high and slammed it down as well atop of her left and forced her upper body down on top of all three blades. With a resounding *CLAAANG*, Ichika found himself pushed down to a knee. "Haaauh!" She disengaged her left blade and made an upward cut at him from under his guard. Ichika managed to leap back three meters away, his shield suffering a loss from the contact with her blade.
"Seems I underestimated you in return," he took a measured breath to regain his center. This Houki was stronger than the other he had left behind. Was it due to his female counterpart's influence? Could Houki really become this strong? Could he also become as strong…?
Houki gave a smile as she raised her swords again – a real smile that momentarily dazzled Ikkun. "Representing the Shinomono Nitoryuu , Shinomono Houki – Ikimasu!" He raised his blade at her before adopting a low gedan posture himself. "Come!" The second time they clashed again, dust flew everywhere. It was amazing enough that the vendors stop their work just so they can watch the fight.
In Ichika's eyes, Houki was to put it simply, terrifying. Perhaps more than Icchan or even on par with this Chifuyu when it came to a pure sword duel. While Chifuyu, like her name implied, seemed to freeze her opponents with the force of her presence, making them think that they are standing still before her, Houki fought the opposite. Insatiable battle lust, blazing under the scorching sun of the summer, the young samurai continued to pressure him despite his superior strength.
On the other hand, Houki was smiling inside. Most people she fought against, with exception of Chifuyu or Ichika, often chicken out due to the ferocity of her attack. This boy… just continued to fight and fight, as if he already read her moves two step ahead yet unable to react fast enough to compensate. To say that she was impressed was an understatement if not a little excited as well.
The thrill of a battle that did not end quickly was upon her and that spurred her actions faster, her movements became sharper and despite that, he rose to her challenge, parrying and countering faster than their minds could fully register the movements that their bodies performed.
Icchan looked on, truly amazed at the sight of Houki going virtually all-out. It was one thing to see her going against other people and then Chifuyu-nee – the disparity in skills was too great to fully appreciate Houki's skills. Now, against an opponent similar in skill, she was able to see why Houki was such a fearsome kendo competitor. And Ikkun… he was actually keeping up with her.
Ah! She could see it now…they were both the same 'element'. She smiled at the thought of yet another thing she shared in common with Ikkun. To share the same element that could stir up all the other elements and make them even fiercer or suppress them – wind or air. While she saw herself as being a mix of mostly wind with a bit of water for adaptability, Ikkun was definitely a mix of wind and fire. 'Fire of the Sky – Ikazuchi (Lightning), hence [Raijin]. It fits him, Nee-chan.'
The two continued to battle for almost ten minutes, the entire thing looking like one of those old martial arts movies with lots of CG effects until Ikkun suddenly changed his stance mid-counter, and dashed forward. The high voltage surrounding his blade made a buzzing sound with small sparks leaving a faint trail.
"What?!" Houki tried to dash back but with Ikkun suddenly becoming much more aggressive, he managed to stall her unending assault enough to unbalance her. "Shimata-!" This was similar to how Ichika had defeated her! With her momentum broken, it would be hard to get it back, especially under a well formed and calculated assault such as this! Since he activated his sword's ability she should also… No, she could still do this. She could…!
Ichika's blade managed to snake between Houki's blades. With a fierce cry and twist, he dislodged them enough to land another step and push forward. *SNIKT* *CRSSSH*
Houki's barrier shattered, and for a moment, her absolute defense got scratched, taking thirty points out of her energy reserve.
"Alright, ten minutes, twenty five seconds," Icchan waved her shinai and pointed it proudly at her male counterpart. "Ichika – win."
"Ah," Houki nodded, bending her knee, panting slightly.
"Ah damn it," Ikkun growled, stabbing his sword into the ground in agitation. "I lost myself in the heat of battle and cheated - I'm sorry."
"Huh," Houki blinked "Cheating?"
"You didn't use your sword's special abilities," he noted "It was unfair; I'd probably lose to you if you had."
"Well," Houki said dejectedly, a little ashamed at herself since she actually did think to use it but her pride didn't allow it. "I was too overconfident and should have used it the moment you use yours, I hope you don't feel insulted."
"A test of character," Icchan frowned disapprovingly at Ikkun. "If it was a real fight; everything would have been resolved much faster. And I can safely say you have no chance, Ichika."
"Yeah, true," Ikkun nodded. Even if he did last long here, he had no delusions of winning against this Houki so easily.
Houki clenched her fist, mentally noting the skill and adaptability of the male Ichika. "If he could last against me for so long in CQC… I think he'll obliterate me in I.S. combat, no exception."
It was not as if Houki didn't know the extent of her piloting abilities. She knew she had a LOT to do to catch up with Ichika and everyone else. The Silver Gospel mission proved that even the strongest I.S. in the world can only do so much in the hand of a total newbie like Houki.
"It's not the weapon, but the person with the skill to wield."
...
Kanzashi yawned.
Today's training was quite exhausting for sure, but if she wanted to stay RELEVANT, she had to do it. Being physically frailer, at least compared to the rest of cadet rep, was no excuse. Yet she had her analytical mind, the one asset that she was always proud of. If she had neither strength nor skill, she would compensate for it with knowledge.
While her body wanted her to just drop half dead and take a nap, she decided to stay awake and took her alone time to shop around. The first stop is, of course, book shop. "The new Infinite Knight volume is out" she muttered, face flushed for some reason.
Several girls already stood on the front pile, checking the contents of the book. Satisfied, Kanzashi went to the cashier ASAP, paid for it, and spend the rest of her time walking around without real aim. Until her brilliant mind betrayed her when her eyes stumbled on a simple corner store…
'Cos-chan Desu'
*Ba-dum-tish*
Despite trying her hardest to ignore the temptation, she gave up and went in.
It's not that she liked to cosplay, per see. Instead, she liked to see the costumes themselves, to silently praise every single detail made and the exquisiteness of the design. To put it simply, each and every single of them are piece of art that has to be appreciated.
She inadvertently called up memories of when she had dolled up Icchan so much to the point that she was barely recognizable. It's not that Ichika wasn't beautiful in the getup; it's just that she looked 'unnatural'. Icchan and thick, heavy makeup just don't mix, like, AT ALL.
She managed to distract herself away from the strange image in her memory when she saw a familiar face that was also perusing through the store.
"Charlotte-s-"
Wait, no, it was not Charlotte.
Sure, they share similarly colored hair, rounded cheek, and even the purple eyes are similar. But when Kanzashi squinted, she can saw the difference. First of all, it was a boy. Kanzashi could easily see it from the body proportions.
Kanzashi tried to dismiss it as coincidence, but as they got closer and closer, Kanzashi can't help but mentally scream, "This is not anime, and it's just a coincidence!"
Their eyes met.
She then realized that his eyes seem to lack the radiance Charlotte always have, or any other people for that matter. Like the eyes of a dead man. Maybe she's exaggerating, but still… she had no other way of explaining 'an absence of life'.
"Excuse me, Miss," one of the staff asked, caused Kanzashi to startle and shrieked a bit.
"S-s-sumimasen," Kanzashi bowed preemptively, knowing that she's at fault. "I was lost in thought."
"Ah, that is fine Miss. Please enjoy your visit then."
The boy had already left with, bags full of clothes, oblivious about what just happened.
Meanwhile, Kanzashi walked out of the shop with a new hairband and choker. Looking at her reflection in a random glass plane, she sighed. She looked like someone out of magical girl anime, or harem fantasy, for that matter.
"What I am doing? They look good but…whatever," the moment she saw them, she couldn't get her mind away. Glancing at the clock she sighed again. It was still three hours until the sun set.
She contemplated whether to go in a yukata or not.
~333~
Chifuyu sat solemnly at a table filed with various kinds of firearms and cleaning tools required to maintain them. As for why she needed enough firearms to equip an entire police precinct, she had a reason, a very good reason. It might have been a little freaky from normal person's view but Chifuyu Orimura was anything but normal.
"Do you have enough or do you require more, Orimura-san," the uniformed adjunct inquired respectfully.
"This is enough, thank you very much," Chifuyu replied coolly, dismissing the adjunct.
She inspected a large caliber handgun along with a couple of magazines, and a pile of ammunition boxes. She had never been a fan of firearms, and being a prideful swordswoman was just one of various factors that formed that mindset. Yet even Chifuyu realized early on that sometimes guns were necessary in this day and age.
And when he explicitly asked for long range combat training, she can't find any real excuse to hold him back.
Actually, he thought she would. She wasn't surprised he thought so. Considering how passive and half-assed he seemed to be at first, she would be worried too.
But meeting with her sister changed everything… a newfound determination to recover from the brink of despair had forced him to grow, standing on his own legs unsupported. She felt that determination resonate with herself and a feeling not unlike pride began to well up within her. It wasn't the same as with her sister but nonetheless, Chifuyu refused to betray his honest and sincere efforts, and if he can pass the 14 days evaluation, this one would be a piece of cake.
As her mind returned to the present, she realized that it was close to sunset. Between the (lack of) alcohol and workload, she had the tendency to space out as of recently. She really needed a drink or two… or three… or four…
"I should just sleep early… or something," she muttered, throwing the empty can of soda to the thrash basket. If it was the weekend, she could at least look forward to both beer and home-cooked meals. No matter what, having two high-quality chefs at the house was something worth bragging about. Alas, no weekend in sight. She was thinking of visiting the Shinonono shrine, but she can always do it later. Funny, she always seemed to think about the shrine when…
Her feet stopped when someone appeared from the bushes a few meters ahead of her.
"CHIIIII~CHAAAAAAN~"
High pitched greeting is what immediately followed; the person in question is a woman in mid twenties, but dressed 15 years too late. Between the bright blue dress with white apron -straight out of fairy tale- and a pair of bunny ears pointing up from a hairband, it's a bizarre sight for anyone to see.
But it was something very familiar (and even more annoying) for Chifuyu.
"What do you want, Tabane," Chifuyu asked coldly, perhaps a little too cold, even.
"Mou, 'why so serious'? This is your dearest childhood friend here," she pouted cutely as usual. Deliberate or not, she often ignored people's expression in favor of her own interpretation of them.
Chifuyu didn't say anything in reply, merely looking at her with her usual stoic gaze.
"I'm just taking a look at the city," she chuckled, stepping back and giving a twirl. "And I see you have united Japan's Infinite Stratos industry behind the public's back. As expected of my Chi~chan~."
Indeed, while it appeared as if the usual rivalries were going on normally, in truth those things were fabricated to keep pretenses of a 'free market' and such going among the unknowing public. And it is all thanks to male Ichika's arrival; using both his mysterious appearance and IS Core, Chifuyu was able to steer the entire situation back under her thumb. Well while it was an arrogant and certainly exaggerated claim, but at the very least things were working toward her favor. Having one privately owned core is one thing, having two of them? Even better, especially in this absurdly high-stakes game she found herself in – one she did not want to be in in the first place.
"Fujin is basically ByakuShiki with its flaws 100% removed… and Suijin is built into original ByakuShiki's chassis, configured to the requirement of its pilot, however," the bunny-eared woman smirked. "It's the third unit that made me interested - just where did that one come from?"
"You sure it's the unit that you're interested in and not the boy holding the leash," Chifuyu's snide remark only incited an even wider grin from the self-proclaimed genius.
"Ho, I actually don't know which is more interesting," cheerfully, the woman muttered. "I'm just curious, naturally."
And jealous, Chifuyu mentally added.
Tabane put a finger to her lip, tapping it lightly. "Although, it's not like I care about him," turned her back to her friend, "should I?"
At first, Chifuyu didn't care for him either, this 'copy' of her real sister that showed up suddenly without warning, until she saw how he brought Icchan out of her shell. That aside, knowing Tabane, her behavior was as if she had found a new toy to play with. And from personal experience, Chifuyu knew that was dangerous.
"Strange, I thought you sent him to spy on us. Only you would think of something like this," Chifuyu said with amused tone. But actually, she was totally serious. He knew so much about her, about Icchan – about them all. And more than that, he also had a personal I.S. with him. She wasn't one to believe too much in the old science fiction novels of her childhood but…
Only Tabane has the capability to build one by her own, as proven by Houki's [AkaTsubaki].
"Chi-chan is so cruel, I wouldn't go that far," she blew a raspberry back at Chifuyu, who didn't believe it for a second. WK incident proved just how far she was willing to go, the Gospel incident was just icing on the cake.
Tabane is a bad liar. She often hid the full truth for her own amusement, but she never lied. But at the same time, Tabane is a master of manipulation. Pulling the strings of everyone by manipulating half-baked information and breeding confusion amongst the crowds was a previously unknown forte of hers.
That's the reason why Raijin was constructed in secret; even Tabane would have a very hard time to find out info about it. Originally, Chifuyu intended to use Raijin herself if things go sour thanks to her actual I.S. being unusable at this present time.
"But come to think of it, where did he come from, do you ever wonder about it?" Tabane inquired as they walked side by side.
"Beats me," Chifuyu replied uncaringly. Of course, Tabane knew that. For Chifuyu, someone's origin or past lives is not important, what's important is whether they're trustworthy or not, simple as that.
…
Kanzashi, by sheer coincidence actually met up with Charlotte and Laura, who were shopping for Laura's supply of clothes. To put it simply, Laura and Kanzashi did not see eye to eye. Yet being socially awkward and silent, as well as sharing similar body issues, they found that they actually related well with each other in a relative short time. Their only basic contrast was that Laura iss very tense and serious, while Kanzashi is rather shy.
And so Kanzashi knew that Laura had all the fashion sense and girly things in general in the negatives, and if Laura claimed she knew, it turns out that those things were… very twisted versions or misconceptions so intense that even a nerd like Kanzashi was left confused, to say nothing about the rest of the girls.
Laura had been apparently corrupted by her second-in- command, who seemed to be a foreigner fujoshi. Clarissa or something along that line, if she's right.
And having Charlotte with her means the French student was currently helping her, as well as teaching Laura about such things as they wore jackets with cat ears placed on their hoods.
"Ah, Kanzashi-san," Charlotte waved. "What a coincidence."
"Indeed," Kanzashi replied with a polite smile. Laura just looked at her and nodded in acknowledgment of her presence. "Ummm…New sweater?"
"Ahahaha, I couldn't help it. It was sooo cute – I just had to buy it…" Charlotte scratched her head, feeling embarrassed. Fingering her new headband Kanzashi thought: "Perhaps summer and cosplay mix all too well."
Kanzashi asked another question. "… So anyone go to the festival?"
"Should I?" Laura tilted her head.
"Well, have you ever been to one?" Charlotte asked. "Do you want to go?"
"Hmm…. Let's go for it then." Laura shown a bit of enthusiasm, much like several days ago when the topic of 'Twister' was brought up.
"Do you have set of yukata with you?"
Laura shook her head but raised her wallet as way of a response, but Charlotte just placed her hand atop of Laura's and pushed it down. "We can just enjoy the festival as it is," she smiled. "No one is going to bother you too badly about it."
"But blending in with the locals is important," Laura recited with a touch of pleading in her voice. Her lower lip had the barest quiver in them as well. Kanzashi could almost see Charlotte's hit points decreasing rapidly.
"D-don't give me that face, Laura," Charlotte tried to stave off the mental attack. "I said no!"
"What are you, her mother," Kazanshi thought.
"…rats, I need to practice this some more…" Laura muttered under her breath.
...
Meanwhile at the Shinonono residence, which comprised of the Shinto shrine, a dojo, and a series of traditional Japanese houses, people already gathered to celebrate the upcoming O-bon.
In the context of the shrine itself, the people were busy beyond belief.
In case of Houki, she's preparing herself for the Kagura Dance, which is more or less a symbolic opening for the festival itself.
That kind of dance is to worship the spirits who return to this world as well as the gods who take them here, and at the same time it's also the reason why the 'Shinonono School' evolved into swordsmanship in the past.
Though the exact historical records had disappeared because of the wars, and the cause wasn't clear, but it seemed that there were women who could use swords in this shrine, and moreover, adding to the mystic air about the place, it was a place of 'ancient lore'.
After Houki moved to the Academy, her relatives took over the management.
"Father," she murmured, "If you're here, what would you say to me?"
The image of her father and mother was still in her mind…
And her big sister…
It was when Houki was so young that she barely remembered the exact details but certain feelings were associated with those few images in her head. A happy family, a completely intact family undisturbed by the influence of outside world.
And then she…Tabane…
Her sister climbed so fast that she stood out with no equal, screaming to the world about her vision.
Her masterpiece, Infinite Stratos - a machine originally started as niche equipment to support space exploration, had been corrupted into weapon of unrivaled power. A power so great that some of the pilot fell into inflated ego syndrome. The Silver Gospel incident proved that for all of her self-imposed independence, Houki still entirely depended on her big sister.
Should Houki feel happy?
No, she couldn't.
She resented her for breaking the family on a whim, resented her for creating Infinite Stratos, resented her for making her parents worry, and for making Houki suffer. But she won't blame her anymore.
In the end, Houki knew she had the power to change - a power entirely separate from what was given to her by other people. It's the heart; the heart within her will always be her true strength. Her family is breaking apart? She'll mend it, eventually.
"Come, it's good, now like this, the preparations are finished."
Wearing the white shirt and dress that were used for the dance, this Houki, decorated with the shrine's golden ornaments looked much more mature than usual. Her body seemed to emit a mysterious aura as befitting a shrine maiden, and she was beautiful enough to make people hold their breath.
"You so look pretty," Icchan said, with starry eyes.
Meanwhile, Ikkun could only give silent yet full hearted appreciation at the sight of 'his' childhood friend for a few moments.
"I am honestly surprised Neesan's old yukata can fit on you," Houki winked at her best friend "I though it might get damaged."
Icchan's cheeks burned hot in embarrassment. "Hey! I didn't even plan to wear one, but Yukiko-obaasan forced me!"
Tabane's bright, sakura-patterned PINK yukata fit so well on Ichika despite being rather tight around the shoulders but helped by the fact that Icchan had a modest chest size. She gave herself twirl, looking at it from all angles.
Looking at the mirror, well… it was passable at least. It also helped that while Icchan disliked long dress, the looseness of a yukata provided impressive cover for her 'unshapely', boyish body.
"Oh hush, Icchan," the middle aged woman who didn't look her age smirked. "It's a festival; It's time for the young ladies to dress themselves and show their inner charm. Isn't that right, Ichika-kun?"
He blinked with a raised eyebrow. "I prefer my head intact thank you," murmured so only she could hear.
Yukiko laughed and patted his back. "Don't say that, straighten your back and tell them how pretty they are, like a man should."
The two girls looked at him wide eyed; the expectation and emotional turmoil radiated by them was impossible to ignore.
He gave a sincere smile. "I'm nor the most sensible man around, but if Dan saw this he'll probably tease me about having a delightful flower on each arm."
Both Houki and Icchan practically steamed, their faces flushed. They should have realized during the 'Truth or Dare' game - he was possibly quite the charmer when he's being honest. That was really dangerous in its own right. The shrine maiden trembled with her hands to her side before averting her eyes and face away from the both of them. "Th-thank you," she stuttered slightly, immediately feeling upset with herself that such words could make her feel like one of those weak-willed women. Though Houki decided to dismiss it as pure courtesy, Icchan couldn't help but take it into her heart and embrace it. After all, she was not commonly praised for her physical beauty.
"Y-you look h-handsome too," Icchan punched him softly on his shoulder before hiding her face against it. It just felt…comfortable there. "I bet a Ramune bottle you'll be surrounded by girls."
"That's cheating," Ikkun laughed as he saw Charlotte waved at his direction, two petite maidens in tow.
~333~
"WHAT?!" Cecilia exclaimed, expressing disbelief about what she just heard in the phone. "How could they possibly-"
"[It's entirely unexpected turn of events, but you're our last hope.]"
"I understand," Cecilia responded more calmly than what she was feeling. "I swear with my own life that Blue Tears will be safe."
"[We're counting on you.]"
Cecilia grasped the phone so hard she almost crushed the casing, but she left the poor electronic device alone soon after.
"[Silent Zephyr] has been stolen and most of our Database has been destroyed. This 'Project BT' needed a major breakthrough…" she sighed.
And they were this close to winning the Ignition Plan. Since France failed to meet the deadline coupled with Germany's blunder months ago caused multiple setbacks and political storms brewing. America's fiasco with the Silver Gospel didn't even need mentioning.
That left only Britain and Italy.
And now her country faced a crisis as well.
Cecilia climbed to the roof, silently watching the fireworks painting the sky with brilliance from there and praying for the safety of her friends. As it stood right now, she knew that there was a figurative cloud looming across the globe, an approaching maelstrom that will change everything.
Tempest35: [Hope you like the changes! Sorry it took so long – I went back and redid the fight scene. ^^; ]
