AN: Here is the third chapter! Please take the time to review, your thoughts will greatly help me raise the quality of this fic!
A bit about the chapter itself: Yes, not much action happening here, but we are close. Next chapter will have some goodies, and for those of you who remember the TTGL anime, around this time we get to see our favorite mecha in action.
For those of you who are a bit confused by the progression of the story: Muv-Luv, especially Alternative, is heavy on exposition and world building. It helps establish the setting and its surroundings. However, it is not necessary here since those who read this story already read Muv-Luv Alternative and do not need this build up. Also, I am attempting to mimic the pace of Gurren Lagann a bit while also keeping up with exposition. Think of it as a mash of their overall pacing. Do tell if I am doing this right or not.
All said and done, enjoy the chapter!
Kouzuki Yuuko could only sigh in exhaustion as she slumped in her chair in her office. She had to deal with far too much this day, between being briefed about the coup, briefing the cadets, and setting up everything so the Americans can be welcomed to the base. The day being mentally tiring was an understatement at this point, but she knew that she had done all she can in order to make her plan a complete success. Powering on her laptop, she began the usual routine of updating her reports on the events on the day. It was a chore, all these formal documentations of every day on the base that she had to send back to the UN headquarters so they could see and understand their operations. Of course, as the head of the Alternative IV plan, she also had the responsibility of updating any sort of progress she had on the plan and send it back to her superiors as well. In all honesty, she wished that she could cut her relations to them completely. Despite the world's situation, humans still had the gull to be greedy politicians and seek power for their own personal use. It was the reason she was not surprised of the emergence of a rebellion. As a Japanese citizen, she understood the motivations behind such a coup. But as a scientist aiming for the salvation of the world, she could not be more disappointed. Throwing away their lives fighting other humans was preposterous. Every single Eishi and soldier that fell in battle again humans was one Eishi or soldier less that they had to fight the BETA. With the BETA's population on Earth already exceeding humanity's, they didn't have people to spare at all.
Hearing Sagiri's speech earlier that day was irritating to say the least. He spoke of putting the country back on its right path. He spoke and revealed the true nature behind the operation to rescue the people of Mt. Tengen, which turned out to be closer to a kidnapping than an evacuation. He spoke of how the government disregarded the wants and rights of the people despite it being an area waiting for a disaster. He spoke of the horrible ways the evacuees were treated, like criminals. And he spoke of how such selfish actions will break the Shogun's heart, and how he and his colleagues would right the wrong done to the people.
His speech was a beautiful one. It would very easily sway people to his side. People who could not see beyond their own comfort zone and only care about one single country in the midst of all others, despite some countries having ceased to exist as the result of the BETA. For the common Japanese populace, such a man was a godsend, someone who could liberate them from their cruel reality and deliver them to a better future. But such a man could only protect them from other humans. What would he say when in the future, his efforts would all be for nothing as the BETA will sweep through Japan, murdering its people and reducing the once proud empire to a kingdom of rubble.
These were the thoughts that ran in Yuuko's mind. She, above all others, put the majority above the minority. She knew that in order to defeat the BETA, many people will die; some perhaps even close to her. She had steeled her heart and defiled her own soul in order to make sure humanity will live on. She put everything she had into the success of Alternative IV, deriving herself of sleep and food in order to bring everything together. The godsend that was Shirogane Takeru only helped speed up the process tremendously, even perhaps salvaging the Plan entirely. The equation he had brought back from his won world was the key. With it, she could finally complete the 00 Unit.
Having finished typing her formal report for the UN, Yuuko accessed her top secret files: the records of Gurren. Every time she read these records she could only be more intrigued as to how it worked, where it came from, and what could it mean for humanity. She skimmed through the records again, verifying that she indeed did not make any sort of mistake in her plans. As she read through her files, she noticed in the corner of her eye a very slight movement on the far side of her lab. Not bothering to raise her head or stop typing, she called out calmly "You already know I hate it when you sneak up like that out of nowhere. The next time you do it I will not hesitate to just shoot you."
Chuckling slightly, the shadowy figure moved towards her, revealing itself as it stepped into the light. "My, my. Perhaps it would not be so bad to die at the hands of a beautiful woman such as yourself, Professor Kouzuki."
Yuuko gave a slight shrug. "Flattery will get you nowhere."
She was already used to Yoroi Sakon's teasing comments. As a master teaser herself, such compliments would never work on her. Hearing him say it a thousand times every time they met only reduced their effectiveness.
Sakon replied playfully. "Now now, I speak only truths after all. In the design of your great plan, I'm sure even a man like myself could have a few uses before he becomes worthless."
Yuuko stopping typing at his words. Clasping her arms ominously on the table, she spoke up. "Of course. Until the machine in the records is completed I won't stop for anything."
For all of his playfulness, Sakon could not help but be worried about what she had in mind. "You are playing a very dangerous game here professor." He said seriously, dropping his ignorant and whimsical persona.
"I know," She answered. "But if everything goes according to plan, then I won't have to worry about a single thing."
"Hoh," he said, his tone questioning. "And how is that?"
She knew he already had the answer to his own question. Deciding to humor him, she replied. "The moment Shirogane Takeru completes it, I will be targeted almost instantly. Those damn old geezers won't just allow a special machine like that to just pass by them without trying to…borrow it from me."
Removing her hands from the table, she twisted in her chair to the side. "It will be my greatest weapon as well as my greatest defense. And even if that fails, any attempts to steal it will be useless since once they are joined, Gurren and Lagann cannot be separated without the presence of Lagann's pilot and the Core Drill."
Chuckling slightly, Sakon complimented her thinking. "You sure have thought this through."
"Like it's any surprise for you." She said, ignoring his innocent tone. "Besides, worst comes to worst I could just say it is a product of Alternative IV and they will drop the case. Only the sharpest of them will even begin suspecting anything else. They have absolutely no idea what they are dealing with."
"Are you sure you know what you are dealing with as well?" he asked her.
"To tell you the truth, no." She answered honestly. "After all, none of the data we have was found by us. All of it existed inside of Gurren's records after all. The only things we have discovered are its original controls. Many of my hypotheses are risky gambles after all." Smirking, she continued. "But I like gambles. You can never get anything done if you do not take the risk in the first place."
Sakon sighed in response. "Those records…sure are magnificent. I could never imagine this would be the result of what we found that day. I sure am glad I tagged along with you back then."
"It's more like you invited yourself. Still, as much as I hate it, your assistance is critical. Pulling strings in the government has never been more useful to me."
"To think the great Kouzuki Yuuko would flatter me. I guess miracles really do happen." He said, putting his hand in his coat pocket.
Yuuko smirked, "Don't get used to it. There is still much we have to do. Right, now we can only sit and wait for results."
Seeing the Gurren in the main hangar caused Takeru to gaze at it wondrously. The idea that Yuuko was using this operation as a measure to remerge Gurren and Lagann could not escape his mind. According to what Yuuko told him, they were indeed supposed to be one machine, but he had his doubts. He figured that sending it into combat would deliver results, but it was far too dangerous. She was taking a huge gamble with a move like this, especially when it came to the fact that Meiya would be the one who will be piloting it. How does Yuuko know it's safe? He could only fear for Meiya at this point. Using a machine that has not been tested on a real battlefield could potentially bring a disaster. They were fighting against other humans, who in the worst case scenario would capture the Gurren and use it against them. There were plenty of people and leaders with personal and political agendas that could bring humanity ruin faster than even the BETA.
But at this point, Takeru could only believe. He had to believe that Yuuko knew what she was doing. She has done incredibly amazing things until now, sending him to his own world even for a few hours is one of them. Yet Takeru always had his doubts.
"It sure is mysterious." A voice behind him said in wonder.
The one who spoke was Chizuru, who noticed his staring at Gurren. "How can the Vice Commander deploy this TSF without combat data is beyond me, but we always knew she was a bit eccentric." She giggled.
"I know," Responded Takeru "She really is…"
Chizuru noticed how Takeru continued to stare at Gurren, not taking his stare off it for a second, his eyes questioning its purpose. "What are you thinking about?" She asked him, leaning to the side to try and catch his attention.
Her question caused him to lower his gaze to the floor. "Will it be alright?" He asked, concern in his voice.
"What do you mean?" She asked him.
He stood in silence for a while, building up his thoughts. "I mean, can we really use these TSFs to…kill people?"
She eyed him with concern. Blinking once, she gazed upon the crimson visage of Gurren as well. "If we are forced to." She began, deciding to be blunt. "They…killed my father after all. They did not have the mercy to show to their fellow humans, even though we should all be together in this conflict against the BETA. Yet they focus on supposedly 'weeding out' the corrupt from the country. It boggles my mind as much as it boggles yours. I don't like the concept of killing myself, yet if this is what we must do to save humanity, then…"
Takeru could only clench his fists in response. He knew this answer already. Such useless killings and conflicts can only take. They would never gain anything worthwhile from killing their fellow man. It was an ideal that Takeru took upon himself a long time ago, even though he could not remember when. Killing humans was out of the question. But…if they got in the way of humanity's safety, if they got in the way of the success of Alternative IV, then he perhaps cast his own humanity away.
Before Chizuru could continue speaking, the two heard a loud dragging sound in the hangar below them. Distracted, they could only look over the railing down to see its source.
Takeru could only go wide-eyed at what he saw. Being dragged slowly by cables on the floor of the hangar was Lagann. Several mechanics crowded around it as it approached one of the TSF hangars, stopping right next to one of the Fubuki's foot. The cables were released and more mechanics crowded to it as they began working. Takeru could only stare in awe, not noticing the person walking behind him.
"Surprised?" the voice said arrogantly. Takeru recognized the voice. It was the voice of the one person who would dare pull this off. Turning around to confirm his suspicion, Takeru stood face to face with Kouzuki Yuuko. He began to feel irritated when he noticed the arrogant grin adorning her face. He figured she knew he would run straight to her when he saw Lagann being brought to the hangar, so she saved herself some time and energy by coming to the hangar herself.
"Yuuko-sensei, what…" He began to ask when she interrupted him. "Cadet Sakaki," she began, her voice taking on its commanding tone.
"Yes, ma'am?" Chizuru asked her. "Please go find Mitsurugi so I can give her instructions on the use of Gurren." Yuuko commanded her.
"Ah, yes. Right away ma'am." Chizuru said, obeying the order. Looking back at Takeru curiously, she left the hangar to find Meiya, leaving Takeru and Yuuko alone on the bridge in the hangar.
"Before you even start talking I'll explain what you just saw." Yuuko said, folding her arms below her breasts. "Lagann is going to be deployed along with Gurren," She began, eliciting a shocked look from Takeru. This woman was just pulling more and more crazy stunts on me without telling me this in advance. "What we are going to do is strap Lagann to your Fubuki. You will be deployed inside the Fubuki on your mission. Make sure that Lagann makes it back in one piece, got it?"
Takeru opened his mouth to say what was on his mind, but he figured that calling her crazy was a redundant move. Opting to instead get to the point, he spoke up. "Why?
Smiling again, Yuuko replied "You already know the answer to that Shirogane."
Gritting his teeth in irritation, he spoke up bluntly. "This is too dangerous! What if your idea fails? We will lose our lives, we will lose Gurren and Lagann, and we'll lose any chance of Alternative IV working! Why takes these unnecessary risks?!"
"It's because they are necessary," she answered calmly. "Gurren and Lagann could perhaps become humanity's strongest weapon against the BETA. We have to get to them fuse back together so we can actually use them. For all of Gurren's toughness and Lagann's mobility, they would stand no chance against the bigger and more dangerous BETA classes. Listen well, Shirogane. I have accessed Gurren's records already in the past and let me tell you that it is absolutely necessary you succeed. The power that could be obtained is immeasurable. We have to make use of it against the BETA while we can. I am afraid that if this fails, we will almost certainly face extinction."
Takeru grit his teeth. For all he wanted to argue, he knew she was right. It is an opportunity that they just cannot pass up. Obtaining such a trump card for humanity will raise their chances of survival by huge numbers. Yet he could not agree completely, because of one simple word she had said.
"You said that immeasurable power could be obtained" he said. Yuuko nodded her head in confirmation, telling him she was listening. "But how can I know it will be used for humanity's benefit? I have seen myself what happened at the end of the world. The only true conflict humans had was against themselves. How can I know that the power that we obtain from fusing Gurren and Lagann will actually be used for humanity? How can I know it will not cause a meaningless incident like the one we are being deployed to right now?"
Yuuko was quiet at his question. It was a good question after all. At present, Takeru was the only one who can pilot Lagann. Should she lose his cooperation then she loses Lagann as well, and she does not know if there will ever be another human being that will be able to activate it. But even so, she was the one in charge here. She could not allow a high school boy to cause her resolve to waver. She had decided a long time ago to cast away her feelings and adapt a calculating persona in order to be able to focus on Alternative IV. "There are no guarantees, Shirogane." She answered bluntly. "But you can be certain that I will do whatever it takes to make sure it will protect humanity, from the BETA, and even itself. I take it since you have already met me in the past you can count on my words, am I correct?"
Takeru stared into her eyes, attempting to find malice. Smiling to himself, he let go of his tension. Experiencing a whole lot of political infighting between humans can make anyone a bit suspicious of a person's motives, but she was right. If there was anyone in the world he could trust wholeheartedly in, it was Kouzuki Yuuko, the genius scientist with the formula to save the world. Seeing him smile, Yuuko put on a warm smile herself.
If anyone else had been watching the two, they would assume they were about to come to blows. Yet, that was not the case. Wordlessly, the two reached an agreement.
They were snapped out of their stupor by a sudden call from the elevator. "Commander Kouzuki!" the voice called out. Hearing the sound of feet tapping quickly on the ground, he turned his head to the source to see Meiya running towards them. Stopping as soon as she was within range, Meiya saluted Yuuko. "Cadet Mitsurugi reporting Ma'am!"
"I said to drop the formalities." Yuuko said sadly, sighing in mock despair. She was saddened by the fact that nobody seemed to remember her telling them to stop saluting her. She is not military personnel so why do they keep on doing it. "Well then Shirogane, I better get Mitsurugi up to speed."
"I see," he replied. "See you later then."
He watched as Yuuko walked away with Meiya towards the elevator and right to Gurren. Takeru then found his attention caught by his own Fubuki, and he watched as Lagann was forklifted high up, then connected to cables. Lagann was then raised slowly up until it was in height of the TSF's back, and pinned in place by large metal straps, making it appear like a strange backpack. Takeru chuckled at the sight. It looked completely ridiculous from where he was standing. In fact, the entire situation was absolutely ridiculous from the very beginning. He still didn't process completely the events of the last few days. From him finding Lagann and to Yuuko showing him Gurren to the announcement of the coup d'état. All of a sudden the realization dawned on him that it was a truly amazing situation, even if it is a sad one. He dearly wished that Yuuko's plan would truly bear fruit.
Finding himself alone on the bridge in the hangar, Takeru decided to head outside. It took him some time to navigate the many corridors and hallways of the base, but eventually he arrived at the main courtyard at of the base. As soon as he stepped outside, his jaw dropped. Stationed around the base were TSFs, Type F-4 Phantoms and F-15 Eagles to be exact, probably from the American Army. Takeru took the scene in awe as he looked around, studying the various TSFs stationed around the base. In the middle of the courtyard, sticking out like a sore thumb were four Type-00 Takemikazuchi, one a blood red color and 3 other pure white. Tracing down the height of the machines, Takeru's sight fell on their feet, where he spotted four too familiar figures. Meeting his eyes, the figures advanced towards him.
"Shirogane Takeru." Said the leader of the figures, disdain in her voice.
"Tsukuyomi…" Takeru answered softly. He could not forget his first meeting with Tsukuyomi in this world. In his own, she was the main caretaker of Meiya, and as a result was part of the group that always hung around his house, taking care of the cooking and the cleaning of his house and the huge mansion Meiya built in his neighborhood. She was a stern, yet warm person that had always acted in Meiya's best interests and always made sure everyone was welcome. Yet in this world she was the exact opposite in her personality. Here she was stern and stiff, being a member of the Japanese Royal Guard, and walked with a certain military graced that made people wary of her immediately. While still acting in Meiya's best interests, she was far from warm. In fact, their first meeting ended with much hostility and her calling Takeru a "dead man". Even in the last timeline he didn't ever figure out what she meant by that. Accompanying her were her three direct subordinates: Ebisu Minagi, Tomoe Yukino, and Kamiyo Tastumi. In his world, the three were total idiots, nicknamed as such, and would always cause mayhem and trouble whenever Tsukuyomi wasn't looking. They were silly, yet fun to be around when one feels down. Yet like Tsukuyomi, in this world they were a complete flip. They are now dignified, competent, and no-nonsense women of great power, by far exceeding his own. The four of them being stationed here was a complete surprise to him. Why would the Imperial Guard send troops to Yokohama base when they could send more backup to suppress the coup? The mere thought angered him greatly. It was the reason why humanity was losing to the BETA. Wasting their time in pointless conflict instead of seeing the greater picture is only putting victory further away from their grasp.
"You have guts showing your face here, Shirogane Takeru." Tsukuyomi said sternly. The four Royal Guard members were dressed in their exo-suits, their colors matching their TSFs. It seems they arrived not long ago.
Sensing the hostility in her voice, Takeru gulped once. "What do you mean by that?" He asked her.
"I have heard of the situation Meiya-sama has been placed in. Being forced to pilot an experimental TSF with no guarantee of success. Such occurrences could only be caused by one such as you." She answered back aggressively. Takeru's eyes widened at what she said. How did she already discover Meiya is piloting Gurren? That is not possible. It is confidential information of the highest order. Could the Imperial Army have spies inside of the base?
"Give me one good reason not to execute you on the spot." She finished. Takeru could feel the killer instinct rising from her hateful eyes. However, he did not falter. Standing his ground, he stared back into her eyes. For outsiders, it would seem like they would soon come to blows.
"That is far enough."
Takeru and Tsukuyomi were pulled out of their stupor by the commanding voice. Turning around, he saw Meiya approaching them quickly.
"Meiya-sama!" Tsukuyomi called out to her. As Meiya joined them, Tsukuyomi pleaded to her. "Meiya-sama, you must withdraw from the mission! There is no reason for you to pilot an untested TSF! It is far too dangerous!"
Folding her arms, Meiya answered strongly. "Tsukuyomi, the decision to pilot it was mine and mine alone. I volunteered for this role by own will. As for that matter, I demand you tell me why you are here. Why are you not protecting the Shogun?"
"Guarding Meiya-sama is…A task the Shogun has bestowed upon us herself."
"Do not speak such nonsense!" Meiya raised her voice. "You know of the danger the Shogun is in!
Answering sadly, Tsukuyomi did not relent. "And that is precisely why…I cannot leave your side Meiya-sama. Your protection has been entrusted to me by the Shogun herself. I cannot allow you to throw away your life for such foolishness." Gritting her teeth, she continued. "Even if you order me to, I cannot leave your side. I must eliminate all threats to your person, regardless of the source."
"And because of that you have the audacity to threaten my squad mate? Such an act is too low for one of your stature."
Tsukuyomi tensed. "I would have looked the other way if you had been piloting a regular TSF, but to use an untested prototype in such a delicate assignment is nothing short of suicide!"
Meiya looked down on the ground sadly. "Do you really…have such little trust in me?"
Her words struck a chord in Tsukuyomi and her attendants. Finding herself at a loss for words, Tsukuyomi attempted to correct her when Tomoe began speaking. "Meiya-sama, that is not the case at all! Tsukuyomi-sama is concerned for the wellbeing of the Shogun as much as you are!"
"Tomoe, stand down!" Tsukuyomi commanded.
"She is right!" Kamiyo interrupted. "We are all torn apart by this situation! Please Meiya-sama, try and understand how Tsukuyomi-sama feels!"
"We cannot abandon our role!" Ebisu added. "We were named your attendants by her Highness!"
"That's enough." Meiya interrupted them, shutting the three up. Looking sadly at Tsukuyomi, she continued. "I apologize, Tsukuyomi. I do not know what came over me."
"Meiya-sama…"
"However," Meiya said sternly. "Regardless of how you feel, if the task to protect me was given to you by the Shogun, then I likewise cannot go against my orders. I volunteered for this role knowing full well the dangers involved. I request that you trust my judgment."
Tsukuyomi thought in silence. The look in Meiya's eyes showed her conviction. As much as she wanted to, Tsukuyomi knew that trying to convince her anymore would be a futile attempt. The pregnant silence created an uneasy atmosphere around the two women. Breaking the silence, Takeru asked. "First Lieutenant, is her Highness safe?"
The abrupt question caused Tsukuyomi to widen her eyes. Looking at Meiya, she found her staring into her eyes, pleading for a response. Blinking once to calm herself, Tsukuyomi answered. "Yes, she is safe. You have nothing to worry about. The 2nd Battalion, the elite of the elite, is guarding her as we speak."
A wave of relief swept over Meiya. Hearing that the Shogun is safe lifted her spirits in these harsh times of conflict.
"I see, that is good." Meiya said happily. "I thank you Tsukuyomi for giving me these news. Come Takeru, we must be ready for the briefing."
Takeru watched as Meiya walked away back inside the base. He wondered why Meiya is so concerned for the Shogun. What sort of relationship does she have with her if she herself tasked Tsukuyomi to guard Meiya?
"Shirogane Takeru." Tsukuyomi said to his back, causing him to turn back to face her. "I will apologize for my earlier threats. It was not my place to do so."
A bit confused at her sudden sincerity, he began to speak. "No, it's fine, you were just worried for Meiya and I get it."
"Even so, do not forget my words. I do not trust your words at all at this time. Should Meiya-sama fall to any danger; I will be looking for you for answers."
Takeru knew what she meant by those words. "Let us go. We shall meet again, Shirogane Takeru." Signaling to her companions, the four Honor Guards left the courtyard.
Several hours passed since then. The members of Squad 207 gathered in their classroom as Marimo briefed them on the situation.
"As you can see, our squad is tasked with rearguard duties. Our role is to defend Tougashima Fortress. The area of operation will be in the area of Hakone."
The briefing was one huge mess, Takeru thought. Marimo informed them how the Japanese government had accepted help from the UN and American armies in order to counter the rebel's forces. Takeru knew it was the work of Tamase's father. He had to give it to him for granting them this help. He hoped that it would bring a swift end to this meaningless conflict, regardless of the price of trampling on Japanese pride. In this screwed-up world, such pride could only bring further disaster on humanity.
While the rest of the squad was surprised by the sudden deployment, Takeru was not. After his talk with Yuuko, he knew the true objective of the operation: to merge Gurren and Lagann. If that is the objective, then it he can assume that they will meet the enemy there. He thought about telling the squad, but he realized that if he did, their deployment would most likely be called off and Yuuko's goal would be unfulfilled. She knew it was the best chance they had to accomplish it, so Takeru decided to stay quiet.
"Also, the Imperial Honor Guard's 19th Independent Guard Unit will be accompanying you on this mission."
Takeru could hear the small gasp from Meiya. That unit was Tsukuyomi unit, meaning that she will be joining them. Although Takeru bore no ill will towards Tsukuyomi, he still felt uneasy. Her being with them would mean she would keep a close eye on Meiya and himself. Still, Tsukuyomi was skilled, so her help would only make any possible confrontation way easier on the cadets themselves, not including the reinforcements from the American Army that they will receive, according to Marimo.
And so Marimo continued her briefing, explaining to them the route they will take to their objective. Their routes involved taking a major highway, resupplying along its line as they continue their advance. She continued explaining they will split into two separate fire teams with herself as the leader. Takeru was reassured by this fact. Having a commander with experience will alleviate some of their own uneasiness.
"The teams are as follows: Sakaki leading Alpha team with Ayamine and Yoroi, while Mitsurugi will lead Bravo team with Shirogane and Tamase. Since this is the first field test of the Gurren, extra precaution is to be taken for its protection. While I have faith in its durability, we cannot take any chances. If the need arises, I will instruct you to take a circle formation around it. All of you finish tweaking your armaments into the next half hour and meet me in the hangar. Dismissed!"
Saluting their superior officer, the squad turned to leave towards the hangar. As Takeru turned to leave himself, Marimo began speaking. "Mitsurugi, Shirogane, if I may have a word with you two."
Looking at each other in confusion, Meiya and Takeru turned to face Marimo, who walked towards them. She looked at them sadly, concern in her eyes, and spoke. "You two…Be careful. I do not know what we will encounter in this mission, but please watch yourselves. For your own sakes."
Takeru and Meiya looked at each other again for a second, and smiled. Turning back to her, they saluted her "Yes Ma'am! We won't make you worry!"
Smiling back, Marimo relieved them and watched as they scurried to the hangar. Now alone in the classroom, she said softly to herself. "And mine…"
The squad moved forward in the ruins of Hakone. They had deployed a few hours before and had gotten through the highway without and problems. Throughout the walk, Takeru stole a few glanced at Meiya, who was inside the crimson visage of Gurren. It was strange, he thought. Meiya took the opportunity to adjust herself to Gurren's controls, commenting about some of its surprising aspects. From what she had said, Gurren also had anti-movement sickness features, which Takeru did not find very surprising. If Gurren and Lagann were previously one machine, then it's obvious that they would share some key features. Meiya complimented the reaction speed of the controls as well as its bulk, but found its lack of side arms and overall rigidness to be bothersome.
Takeru knew Yuuko as monitoring them from the base. She had said so herself before they had deployed after all. Constantly checking on their life signs as well as control logs, she cited that she wanted as much data about their operation as possible. For now, he figured she was monitoring primarily the Gurren, as Lagann, still strapped to his own Fubuki, and was currently inactive. Fumbling with the drill around his neck, Takeru felt a strange connection. It was as if he could feel the very slight humming of Lagann, as if it was waiting for his orders. It was such a strange feeling, yet a very pleasant one. He felt as if he was being protected, as if it cared for his wellbeing. He would have to ask Yuuko about this when they returned to the base.
The group continued forward in their formation towards the fortress. Marimo opened a channel and explained that no enemies have been sighted in the area. As no changes in the plan took place, could continue at their leisure to their destination. Still, Takeru felt uneasy. Other than Meiya mechanically commenting on Gurren, no one else said anything. He figured that the possibility of dying frightened them as much as it did him. While they all had the resolve to do what's necessary, it was still an unfamiliar feeling to them.
It bothered Takeru more than it should have. While thinking about the other timeline, he found his memory to be fragmented. He recalled many memories from that time, but one simple, yet extremely important memory was missing: Any sort of confrontation with the BETA. It bothered him that he could not recall fighting the BETA since he could recall fighting humans. He knew the tension of battle and the uneasy feeling that accompanied it, which was why he was fairly calm in this situation, yet could not understand the feeling of fighting BETA. It felt like something he had never experienced, even though he was 100% sure it should have been.
As they passed through Hakone, Takeru felt some fond memories coming up to his consciousness. He remembered Hakone very clearly. It was the place where they all went as a group back in his home world, where they had fun like never before and had drunken misadventures. He missed that warm feeling. He missed seeing his friends with smiles on their faces.
As he was going down memory lane, Marimo suddenly came up in the comm, arresting his attention. "This is 00 to all units. Fighting has broken out in the capital. It is unconfirmed, but it seems a foot soldier opened fired on the Honor Guard in the palace."
Takeru felt his pulse rise. "Captain Sagiri attempted to call for a ceasefire, but could not get the situation under control. This situation however does not change our initial plans. We will separate into our designated teams and continue the mission. 00 out."
"01, copy that." "02, copy that."
The group continued to walk in silence through the mountain. Takeru thought about trying to lift their spirits, but he realized it wasn't a good idea. He wasn't the only one feeling the tension, so trying to lift everyone's spirits could only backfire on him and cause Marimo to yell at him.
Eventually, they reached the fortress, creating a circle formation in order to guard from enemies and take a rest. Pointing their nozzles outside of the circle, they waited patiently and silently. Suddenly, Takeru noticed snow began to fall around them, painting the area with an eerie yet calming atmosphere. He watched the snow fall, mentally chuckling at the irony of its beauty. Choosing to arrive at such a moment? What bad timing. It was beautiful no doubt, yet saddening as well. Takeru knew that people were fighting in the capital, yet they could not hear the sound of gunshots nor see flashing nozzles. They could only see this beautiful snowfall.
Hearing a beeping in his right ear, Takeru watched as Meiya's face filled his screen, taking note of the unauthorized use of an encrypted channel. It probably meant she wanted to talk only to him. It didn't surprise him, seeing as in the previous timeline, when they had been stuck in Mt. Tengen Meiya did this as well. It seems like she has a knack for breaking regulations.
"Takeru," she said softly over the comm. "I wish to speak with you."
Noticing the small hesitation in her voice, Takeru touched a different subject. "Hey Meiya, how are you doing in there?"
Surprised by his changing of the subject, she decided to indulge him a bit. "I'm fine. It's still a bit strange to pilot, but I think I got the most of it for now. It's quite a piece of work."
Takeru smiled. He figured smiling would make it easier for her to talk about whatever it is she wanted to talk about.
"Takeru, I have a question." She said after a small silence. When she noticed he didn't speak, she allowed herself to continue. "What do you think of what the rebels are thinking?"
Her question took Takeru by surprise. He didn't think she would ask him about that. If she wanted to, she would bring it up while they were speaking with Tsukuyomi, so why bring it up now? Is it because of their now only the two of them could hear each other's words?
Thinking for a bit, Takeru came up with an answer for her. "I…" he began. "I think this entire situation is a waste of time." His response caused Meiya's eyes to widen, apparently believing he would say something else. "What I mean by that is…I think we should be focusing our efforts not on fighting each other, but on fighting the BETA. Every Eishi, every pilot, every soldier we lose fighting each other is one less we have for fighting the BETA. If we can't even get along amongst ourselves, how can we ever unite to beat the BETA?"
It took Meiya a moment to process his answer. Coming up with a response, she asked him. "I see…But can you truly understand how they feel?"
"I can." He answered bluntly. "But that doesn't mean I agree with them. I used to not understand this way of thinking, but something happened that made me understand them better." He recalled Meiya's words from the previous timeline. Yet at the same time he recalled humanity's tragic end. The activation of Alternative V, the bombing of Earth, the meaningless conflicts between humans trying to obtain control of what's left in the midst of the war with the BETA. Such outcomes can only come to pass if humans do not band together.
"Then, Takeru. For what cause are you here?" she asked.
To change the future of course. To change the fate of humanity. To make it so they could survive to see tomorrow. But he couldn't tell her that. She wouldn't understand what he would say. She didn't know about that fate, nor does she have to. He could only work silently towards that goal.
"Because I do not want to lose to the BETA. I want to ensure humanity's victory at all costs."
"I see, so you prioritize humanity's victory over everything else. Even if our goals are the same, as long as we value different things, we will have different methods."
"I know that, but right now what is important for humanity and Japan is to beat the BETA. Everything else should come after that."
"Even if it means losing our humanity?"
Takeru found himself speechless at her question. Obviously that was not what he meant, but for her to take it this far was surprising. Ensuring humanity's victory at all costs…Could it possibly lead to such an outcome?
"Even if humanity wishes for victory, we have been fighting for a long time. Time is passing on, and we are getting weary. The citizens' lives are getting worse by day. Malnutrition, forced relocation, substandard housing, obligatory conscription, and men and women alike are sent to battle. Some people believe they can change that with their own strength. They would all give their lives to improve the people's future. Can you truly say that is not important?"
He could not speak. "If we put these problems on the side, they will continue to get worse. They will get worse and worse until out very humanity will be cast aside. When that happens…who will be left to truly defend us from the BETA?"
Takeru grit his teeth, cursing his lack of retort. Instead, he decided to ask her one question. "And that is something…you'd take upon yourself, right?"
"Yes…it would." She answered softly. "From the very beginning of our fight with the BETA, Japan has been constantly trampled on by others, becoming dependent on other countries, occupied by their armies. The BETA ravaged our lands, and those lands we taken back by ravaging them even more. Yet despite all that, we have not lost our mettle. That is because of the hearts of the people. The very foundation of our country lies with the Shogun and her family. You could say that the Shogun is Japan herself. Should we ever lose what makes us who we are, how can we call ourselves humans anymore? No, you could say some of that was lost already. The government became corrupt, those in charge seeing the Shogun as a puppet to strengthen their own power, and eating away at our foundations. What the rebels are trying to do…is to save what is left. To save Japan, and its humanity, from utter destruction."
Takeru did not respond. Those words…were exactly her own feelings. For her, for Mitsurugi Meiya, those words were absolute truths that she would gladly take upon herself. He knew that is she could, she would join the rebels to save Japan. Yet still, he could not understand such words.
"But even so," He began. "This cannot possibly be what the Shogun wants. This fighting is only putting on a bigger burden on the Japanese and the rest of the world. The UN, the Americans, all countries are vying for control of a post-war world that might not exist. What is the point of keeping our humanity…If we will no longer exist to retain it? I want…to save Japan just as much as you…but saving just Japan is meaningless. Such fighting will not convince anyone you are right. The world must get its shit together if we want to ever have a chance at remaining humans."
"That's enough, Takeru." She interrupted. "I don't want to hear it anymore. If you say you cannot understand, then do not condemn it. Just stop."
Obliging her request, Takeru stopped speaking. He realized that there was no point in talking about this anymore. The two of them…could never let go of their ideals. But he had to say one last thing to her.
"But even so Meiya…I will save the world. And I will save Japan."
"I see…You are strong, Takeru."
At her words, Meiya shut off the channel. In that very last moment, Takeru saw it. The very small smile that graced her features. Yet her last words bothered him. Calling him strong…Is that really how he should be described? He was not sure.
Seeing as his shift would be in some time, Takeru closed his eyes, and wandered off to sleep.