Author's Note: I'm finally back again with a new chapter! But don't fret, this chapter is more like a setup for Mukuro's next mission. But more importantly, I included a new character in my story. And BTW, I really enjoyed the Danganronpa 3 anime, especially the dub. Heck, it has a lot of twists and turns from both arcs. Not to mention the latest episode of the Future arc; I was so damn happy that Komaru and Toko made an appearance! :D
Well, enough of that. Anyway, here's chapter 4 ofAct I.
Still, I never owned Danganronpa and Metal Gear Solid.
Chapter 4: Shadow Rabbit
Two days later
900 miles from Diamond Dogs Mother Base
Seychelles waters
7:45 in the morning
*Mukuro's POV*
I finally wake up when the rays of the sun hits my eyes from the window of the chopper.
"Ugh, morning already...?"
After looking around, I looked at my watch and it says fifteen minutes before eight in the morning.
"It's been two days…." I said. Actually, seems I'm the only operative who is going back to Mother Base. And if you ask me where's Snake? Well...
FLASHBACK
Two days ago
LZ 500 miles near Da Shago Kallai
Northern Kabul, Afghanistan
6:15 in the evening
The helicopter is now landing on the designated LZ and as of now, Mukuro is puzzled about the shrapnel-clad merc is doing.
"Boss, are you sure about this?" the girl asked.
"Yes." Snake answered. "I got some things to do. You go back to Mother Base."
"But-"
"Don't worry, kid. I can take care of myself." Snake told the girl with a smile, assuring that everything is alright. "It doesn't matter how long, but I'll be fine."
When Mukuro heard this, she nodded instead. "Okay, just… be careful down there."
"Hey, that's my line!" Pequod interjected through the radio.
"Thanks, Ikusaba." Snake chuckled. "At least that makes the pressure go off a bit. See you around."
*Mukuro's POV*
He said that he'll need some extra missions to do. I dunno what it is, but... he said that he'll be okay. But I began to wonder how and what makes Big Boss a legend... about what makes him so special? But that question will be on later.
"Fenrir, fifteen minutes before approaching to Mother Base." Pequod reminded me. "Just take your R&R for now, kid. I have no idea what Ocelot told you, but it seems important."
Command Platform
Diamond Dogs Mother Base
Seychelles waters
8:00 in the morning
*Mukuro's POV*
The chopper landed in the helipad and I got out. I took a deep breath and thought to myself: it's indeed a beautiful morning. And it was.
As I walked forward I saw three soldiers are having target practice, with Ocelot observing. Seems it's another shooting drill, but as I am moving closer, I can't help but to watch.
As Ocelot walked observing, I saw the two mercs had their basic stance where they hold their handguns with their two hands. But as I look on the third guy, it seems he had an unusual stance and quickly draws his gun and shoots the target at a rapid succession; three shots. And he puts back his gun in his holster
The cowboy-clad instructor went into the said guy and told him, "Again."
Same routine: he quickly drew his handgun and fired, trying to do the same thing yet the handgun was jammed; seems that the case of the bullet was stuck. I saw that he tried to shake it off but to no avail.
Ocelot motioned to give the jammed handgun to him; he unloads the cartridge and gave it to the merc.
"You see that in the movies?" Ocelot implied as he take off the case from the handgun by loading the gun. Ocelot began to speak to the men as he carried the said gun.
"That's an automatic – don't bother trying to dampen the recoil. You do that with a revolver."
As I am watching right now putting my right hand into my hip, I can't help but to smile because this is another lecture from Instructor Ocelot.
"We Diamond Dogs... are now a force to be reckoned with. We've got the world's attention. We're not some tribal militia. So don't act like one."
And then he continued. "You will learn how a real soldier fights. You will forget everything Hollywood taught you. And if I caught you doing something else... you'll know it."
He walked towards the third merc and it seems he shows him something; I looked at the gun and it had... engravings. Such a good design if you ask me.
"Engravings... give you no tactical advantage whatsoever."
Yeah, I agree about that. And what he said afterwards gives me some good vibes. In other words, Ocelot complemented him.
"But that was some fancy shooting. Pretty good."
And then Ocelot saw me. Then he called out to his men.
"Alright, that's it for today. Dismissed!"
As the three mercs dispersed and they returned to their jobs, Ocelot approached me. He spoke first. "You've been watching all this time, huh?"
"No sir." I saluted him and turned down. "Actually I arrived here 5 minutes ago." I answered.
"Doesn't matter, kid." Ocelot chuckled.
"What's with that gun?" I pointed out on the gun he's holding.
"Oh this?" Ocelot gave the gun to me. "It's more like a specially customized AM D114 pistol, with engravings and that."
Then something clicked into my mind. "Sir, I remember what you've said about the fact that engravings can't give you any advantage on the battlefield, right?"
"What are you getting at, Fenrir?" Ocelot inquired.
"I agree on what you've said." I answered. "But if you ask me, I don't give a damn about engravings or whatnot..."
I began to do the basic stance as I eyed on the target, while holding the engraved handgun.
"What matters is how someone can use a gun. You are in a disadvantage if you are scared. But if you have focus and shaking off any fear you had, then you have a lot of chances to make it count."
"Heh, very military-minded; despite of your age." Ocelot chuckled as I give the gun back to him. "It was no mistake why the Boss took you in here." Then he changed the topic. "Anyway, congratulations on your first mission, and it's a success."
"Thanks, sir."
"Oh, that reminds me." Ocelot reached on his pocket and he gave something to me.
"A cassette tape?" I asked.
"Yes." he nodded. "The details on your next mission AND the person you're going to meet are in there."
Then I heard my stomach grumble. It tells me one thing: I'm hungry.
"Seems you need to eat a grub, kid." he chuckled. "Why don't you eat some breakfast at mess hall and go with that later, ok?"
"Right. Thank you, sir." I saluted and he nodded. And now I'm on my way into the mess hall. Man, I'm starved. But what really sparked my curiosity... is this tape.
What's really in store for me?
The cowboy-clad instructor pinched an earpiece as if he is trying to contact someone...
"I gave her the tape. Yeah, it's all in you now. Hm, I know you can't wait to see her again. Make most of your time, kid."
Ocelot ended the call.
Mukuro's Quarters, Room 212
Diamond Dogs' Mother Base
Seychelles Waters
Command Platform
8:55 in the morning
*Mukuro's POV*
After finished eating breakfast back into the mess hall, I sat on my bed after taking a shower a few minutes ago. So as of now, I'm wearing shorts and a t-shirt. And afterwards I took the tape and looked down into it; then it caught my attention as I saw something that is written on the tape:
"What's up, Doc?"
What? Did this reference a cartoon character or something?
Shrugging it off, I went to the Walkman on my desk. Back in my world, we are using MP3s, iPods, smartphones and other portable media devices to listen some music or even listening to radio. But you can't help to appreciate most of the oldie stuff, particularly this cassette tape.
How can I put this? The cassette tape was invented in 1962 and it became one of the most commonly used formats for prerecorded music and it still stands even the CD player came into existence... in a span of 40 years. Even it was introduced in the 60's, it was the 70's and 80's that brought the cassette tape its cultural moment. Stereo players and the boom boxes are a fad back then since they are the most sought products. And here it is; another great invention in its time: the Walkman.
Before MP3s, iPods, and smartphones came into existence, there's the Walkman. Japanese company Sony (yes, the same company that gave you the PlayStation consoles that you, the readers, are currently enjoying right now!) released the Walkman in 1979, and it became one of the prominent things in pop culture from the 80's and the 90's. But someone even told me that a PMC named 'Militaires Sans Frontieres' (which is, the predecessor of Diamond Dogs 9 years ago. Telling all of that would be very long story) used devices that are identical to the Walkman in their missions. It's kinda weird, but... that really tells me that there are some people who are using Walkman prototypes 5 years prior to its public release. But, err, whatever.
As I opened the Walkman, I insert the cassette, closed and began to play it. Moments later, I heard a voice.
It was male, probably in his teens.
"Hey, what's up? Upon the recording of this tape, I need your ears open. If you want to have some details on your next mission, meet me at my room inside the Intel Platform. The code number is INT-13SR, my workplace. I want to meet you in person... after all these years. But I warn you: when you enter my turf, you won't find me. Instead, I will find you. See you around... Mukuro Ikusaba."
And that's where the conversation ends as I eject the tape from my portable Walkman. I knew that I'm still a new girl here but... who is this guy? How does he know me? Why is he the only guy who had the mission details and not the XO, or Ocelot, or even Snake himself?
One way to find out...
In the vicinity of the Intel Platform
Diamond Dogs' Mother Base
Seychelles Waters
10:00 in the morning
*Mukuro's POV*
Back at my full uniform, I finally made into the Intel Platform. And how did I make there?
Using a cardboard box.
Yes.
That. Cardboard. Box.
Back then a merc told me that there are times that the 'Boss' used a cardboard box and stepped into a small yellow platform, which is, a delivery point. The said merc had an advice: why don't I try it.
How can I put this? Well, I equipped the cardboard box, went into the delivery point. While in there, I took out my iDroid and I saw a number of delivery points at the said platforms. I select the delivery point of the Intel Platform. Moments later, I heard the sound of a truck coming and... Probably some of you here know what happens next: I made it here.
Seeing an open door right there, I began to enter inside. On the other hand, I entered into the main building once where the radio dome is located inside. However here, it's a series of doors that led to each Intel agent's designated workplace. As I walked forward, I entered into one of its rooms, a large one. But it's more than just a main hall...
This is more like a war room.
Communications equipment left and right; I saw them. And in the center is a world map. And most of the staff here is doing their designated jobs at best. Hm, so this is how the Intel Unit works.
As I look into my right eastward, I saw a steel door where it reads "INT-13SR". And on the right side near the door is a placard that says 'Authorized Personnel Only'.
Is this it? According to the tape it says that the person I should meet in this room was located there. I reached the door and stared at it.
With a calm yet determined look, I pushed the red button and the sliding door opened.
Presently, I'm now inside of the said room. By the looks of it, the size and length is somewhat big for a living room as I also saw a balcony with some radio and comms equipment. And way down is a desk with some radio and comms equipment as well Walkman and a boombox... and some bag of food. I don't know what that is.
I also saw a map attached to the steel wall; it's a map of Afghanistan. And on my right I saw a cabinet, a bed, a table, a fridge and a handful of chairs. And I heard some music once I was inside this room. It's more like it's a new wave, synthpop song, which it has an upbeat tone. That's 80s music, mind you.
But... I still can't find that guy that I should meet.
"Cool beat, eh?"
A voice; it was male.
"Secret Agent by Robin Gibb, one-third of the British pop music group Bee Gees; released in 1984. It is also the same year his solo album was released; and THIS is also the time period we both are now in. Oh, and about the song? Heh, that is perfect for an Intel guy like me."
'Secret Agent'? Wait a sec, it sounds familiar...
As I look around trying to find the source of that voice... all I feel is... it's just me. Alone. And the upbeat song that keeps on playing from the boom box.
"Where are you?" growing impatient and starting to get a bit irritated, I called out, "Show yourself!"
"Did I warn you back through the tape Ocelot gave you? I told you that you won't find me. Instead... I. will. FIND YOU."
Damn it. What is this, some kind of a joke!?
I quickly drew my handgun as I looked around to find that guy. I don't know why, but why I keep on sensing danger? Yet...
"Don't move."
I widened my eyes. I can feel that a gun is aiming at me... at the back of my head! And I could tell that the barrel is inches from my head. Shit, what now?
"I told you that I will find you, instead of you finding me." the mysterious young man said in a snarky tone.
How can I get out from this?
At a moment's notice seems I hatched an idea.
Using my speed and reflexes, I used my right elbow to strike him as I make a turn. However, the young man back away, evading my strike, and we aim our guns on each other, resulting a standoff. As I take a good look on the young man who tried to attack me...
He's like wearing an officer's uniform, complete with boots, gloves, a necktie, and a gun holster. He is pointing a revolver at me. The young man also had brown hair, dark brown eyes, and his appearance? He looks like the same age as I am, more like an older teen. And he had a Diamond Dogs armband on his left arm.
The revolver-wielding young man spoke to me. "Just as expected, you hadn't lost your touch, Ikusaba... after all these years."
I was a bit surprised about what he said: 'after all these years'...?
"Proficient with a wide array of firearms and weapons, excellent hand-to-hand combatant, can enter a kind of 'battle trance' when pushed to the limit, where your speed and reflexes increase to nigh-superhuman levels. No wonder why you managed to become highly proficient in CQC during your three-week training period. You're such a fast learner, as I expected from the girl whose previous title is Super High School Level Soldier."
I narrowed my eyes as I stared at him; not to mention that he also knows my previous title when I was in Hope's Peak. "So you know about me..."
"Of course, that's what Intel guys do." He twirled his revolver and put it back on his gun holster. Seeing this, I also put back my gun into my own holster. He continued as he walked into the table and grabbed the bag of food.
"But there is more than that."
He walked a few steps facing me. As he opened the paper bag and picked up something, he throws it on me and I caught it. He gave me a... waffle?
"Hey, don't just stand there. Go and eat. Don't worry; there some drinks in the fridge."
"Uh, sure." I told him as I began to eat the waffle. Oh yeah, this was delicious. I finished eating my waffle afterwards.
"You know, hamburgers are part of the menu at the Mess Hall." I looked back at him and picked up another waffle and ate it. "But during my pastime? I prefer pastries."
Wait, did he say... pastries!?
Earlier he says that I can't 'find' him; so that means he's always good at hiding and since he's good at that, people can forget that someone is watching them.
W-wait.
'Hiding'. 'Secret agent'. 'Pastries'. Putting them all together and-
Crap. Holy crap, it all makes sense now! This guy in front of me is not just good at fighting but also in hiding and sneaking; he also eats pastries and he claims that he's like a 'secret agent'...
Shit!
No doubt. There's only one guy I knew back then with that title! It was him!
"Y-You're... you're Yuto!" I exclaimed. "You're Yuto Kamishiro, aren't you?! The Ultimate Secret Agent!?"
As the young man, who is actually Kamishiro took the last bite of his waffle; he looked back at me as if he caught my attention.
"Correction: it's FORMER." the young man interjected. "And you guessed it right. I AM Yuto Kamishiro. But I go with the codename... 'Shadow Rabbit'. Diamond Dogs Intel Team's Boy Wonder." he finished introducing himself gleefully.
As he placed the bag of waffles in the table, he continued to speak. "I've been waiting for you, Mukuro Ikusaba. Or should I say... 'Fenris Wolf', or 'Fenrir'. You based your codename on the ragtag mercenary group you previously worked with. Back in our world, that is."
"But... how are you alive...? And you're just small guy who loves to eat cakes during our time at Hope's Peak... you've-"
"Changed?" Yuto made a guess. "Yes, I did. I've been through a lot, and here I am." He motioned as if he is showing himself, though.
"While you? You're still the same freckled badass girl." he chuckled. "And even we share the same fate... before we end up here."
Yes, I remember. Back then when my sister uses her 'Ryoko Otonashi' identity, she strangled Yuto to death when her memories began to resurface. And that was before the 'Tragedy', which I am also part of it.
"I don't know if you knew about this but, we have something in common..." I told him as he sat to a chair.
"Hey, take a seat." Yuto said and I do so.
Then I continued. "You were killed by someone, being a pawn of my sister... and I was killed by her as well."
"Hmph. Ryoko Otonashi, no, Junko Enoshima... I should've known back then." he bitterly muttered. "And of course, that man."
"You mean-"
"Yasuke Matsuda, my classmate." the boy recalled. "He's madly in love with that bitch of a sister of yours."
I stared to him in silence. He was right. Yasuke Matsuda, the 'Ultimate Neurologist' is a childhood friend of my sister. He caused Junko's amnesia being an experiment for Junko's plan: the first mutual killing in Hope's Peak.
And as far as I've known, Yasuke killed Yuto due to the latter became suspicious on the former. But in the end, my sister murdered Yasuke once her memories have recovered
"Fate itself has brought us here... but I lived longer than you." Now, Yuto breaks the silence.
"Huh? What do you mean?" I asked.
"Anyhow..." he stood up and as I kept my eyes on him, he went to the fridge and took out two beverage cans. He tossed one and I caught it. "Our personal conversation would save on for later." He opened his can and took a drink.
And he continued while I'm drinking my own cola. "Do you have any idea why I called you here?"
I looked back at Yuto, "You mean the tape?"
"Yeah." He nodded. "My old man told me about you joining this PF. He even made a suggestion that I should give you the info for your next mission, based on my intel."
"Old man?"
"Yep, Instructor Ocelot. He's like a second father to me. A very long story, though." he admitted.
"I see..."
I saw Yuto walked toward his desk... and he carries a file and another cassette tape and place it on the table. I get the file and read it.
"Is this...?"
"Yes. That's my intel report. I'm sure that there is in the file that might surprise you..." said Yuto.
I turned the page upward and... What I saw surprised me.
It was the file of the prisoner who tried to rescue on my first mission, yet she escaped.
"This girl... it's the same prisoner back at Wialo village." I recalled.
"Correct." Yuto affirmed. "And you saw her how she fights, right?"
I nodded.
"That girl is a member of the Hamid mujahideen. She's at our age yet she's as tough as you are. She goes by the name 'Homa.'"
"'Homa'?"
"'Phoenix', in the Persian language." Yuto noted. "She's a fierce fighter that earned her the ranks among the Hamid. She was widely respected and feared by both the Afghan rebels and the Soviets, despite being young. Until that incident happened at Da Smasei Laman..."
"You mean most of her comrades were wiped out? And as far as I know, it wasn't the Soviets who did that." I recalled my conversation with those three top guys who helped me.
"Seems someone have told you about the Spetsnaz commander." Yuto continued. "Still, we were figuring out about who is behind that incident, but anyway, that girl will be your next mission."
When I heard about it, I turned my attention to Yuto, while holding the file.
Then he continued. "Locate and rescue Homa, and bring her to Mother Base. Not only we will get some info from her, but her talents would be a benefit for a growing organization like Diamond Dogs."
"Is it somewhere in Afghanistan?" I asked.
"Actually, I believe Homa is on his way back to Da Smasei Laman. And by the looks of it, seems that she is now captured." answered Yuto.
"Crap, it's more like she tries to enter into the lion's den and let herself to be slaughtered." I muttered.
"We can't let that happen." Yuto declared as he turned to me. "Alright, that is all I can give you. Take the file and the tape. When you're ready, just call on the chopper."
"Right." I nodded and I took the file and the tape, which I put it into my pocket as stood up. While I am walking towards the door, I stopped and turned to him.
"Yuto? Oh, you are called Shadow Rabbit here. Guess I should call you that often for now on..."
"Be my guest... Fenrir." He answered back.
"Well..." I took a deep breath. "Before I return to my quarters... you better tell me everything, as much as I do the same."
"Is that an interrogation?"
"No. More like a... conversation." I smirked. "When was the last time we spend talking with each other, as classmates?"
I saw Shadow Rabbit, as he was called, puts a finger in his chin. "Hmmm, when was it? I know, at Hope's Peak High School? But as far as I can remember, you're not even open to everyone. Is that right?"
I couldn't even answer.
"Hey, that's fine, Mukuro. There's a lot of time." he said.
Outskirts of the Intel Platform
Diamond Dogs' Mother Base
Seychelles Waters
10:30 in the morning
*Mukuro's POV*
"So you're actually working here?" I said as we keep on walking. Currently, we are outside the building, but still here in the Intel Platform.
"Yeah. After my training under Master Ocelot, I was immediately assigned to the Intel Team. To be honest, the whole Intel Team are family to me, and guys like HUMINDT and SIGINT are more like my brothers. Lemme guess: you're on the Combat Team, right?"
"Well, yes I am." I said. "The Combat Platform is more like my home turf... and my playground."
"So you spend your time in the gym, huh? Or how about target practice?" He tried to guess.
"Correct on both."
"Figures." Yuto nodded.
As we reached on one of the helipads, we stopped for a while. And we look up at the blue sky and feel the breath of fresh air.
"So tell me." I began to speak. "How are you still alive, and how did you end up being here?"
"Same as you." he replied as he turned to me. "When I opened my eyes, I was in a different place. But that was... three years ago."
"Three years? So it makes sense why you've... grown." I said.
"Hey, at least it's not something like, um you know?" he shrugged.
"Hiyoko Saionji?" I guessed. "Yeah, the 'Ultimate Traditional Dancer'; I remember."
"I mean, come on. The first time I saw her she's little. But then half a year, she suddenly became taller and beautiful! Damnit, why doesn't that happen to me back then!?"
You know, I deadpanned when this young Intel guy becoming hysterical. "That's what growth spurts do. But whether you like it or not, Hiyoko is a rare case." I shrugged.
"I concur." Yuto sighed. Moments later, he turned back at me. "Now going back – those three years are the most unforgettable years of my life. Three years of hell yet three years of being refined in the fire; and those three years have shaped me into the young man I have become."
"Now I know what you mean..." I told him with a serious look.
"Three years ago, in 1981, I woke up, gasping for breath. I found out that I was alive, and worse, I am in the middle of the desert..."
FLASHBACK
Three years ago
Somewhere in the desert 500 miles from Spugmay Keep
Northern Kabul, Afghanistan, 1981
2:00 in the afternoon
*Yuto's POV*
I looked around and all I saw is nothing but rocks and sand. Not just I am alive, but this is the first time I am here in the desert. I wander aimlessly and the scorching heat of the sun is killing me; it's more like 'hell on earth'.
I continued walking forward; even my clothes are tattered by the dirt. I even took off my clothes just to cope up with the heat, but the heat of the sun is too much. Until I reached into a rocky cliff, filled with pillars and debris; and this is where I find shelter. That place is Spugmay Keep.
I stayed there for days, and I have no food to eat or water to drink. What was the damn point of being alive again when I'm dying again this time around? For me, hope is all lost and I will drown myself into my own despair...
But... I found hope.
Someone found me.
And as I looked up, it was a middle aged man, who wears a coat and carried some water.
"You okay, boy?" the mysterious man asked me. Since I am too tired to speak, he carried me and poured out some water in my mouth. Then afterwards, I took the water and drink it. Then the man took out something from his bag and it was a piece of bread. He broke it and handed the piece of bread to. Then I took and eat it. After this, I'm back in full strength, thanks to the man who saved me.
"Hey, looks like your fine now."
"Thank you..." I said weakly.
"Can you tell me where your parents are? Maybe you should go home, kid..." the man told me.
"But... I have no parents and... I have nowhere to go..."
"So you are wandering around here in the desert?" he asked me and I answered with a nod.
"Well, guess I have no choice."
"Huh?"
"Since you said that you have nowhere to go... I'll take you in. Come on."
I was riding in his horse later on. But he asked me something, "Kid, where are you from...?"
I couldn't even answer but I still do. "I wasn't from here. All I know is that I am lying down in the middle of the desert."
"So you're an outcast? A wanderer?"
"Umm..."
I heard him sigh and said to me, "Don't worry, I'll take you to Mother Base."
"M-Mother... Base?"
"Right. Our journey back there would be a bit long, but you'll be fine. Trust me."
PRESENT DAY
*Mukuro's POV*
"And that man was... Instructor Ocelot?" I turned back to Yuto when I said it.
"Yeah." he answered as he turned to me. "The man, who was also known as 'Shalashaska', is the one who saved me and took me in here. You were saved by a Snake; I was saved by an Ocelot. Small world, isn't it?"
I remained silent as he continued. "When we arrived here at Mother Base, I was under care by the medics and helped me back in shape. Then a week later, that was the day I made my decision: that decision of mine changed my life...
FLASHBACK
A week later
Diamond Dogs Mother Base
Seychelles Waters, 1981
11:00 in the morning
Three years ago
*Yuto's POV*
"Sorry, kid. But I can't take you in."
"But why?"
I was even shocked when Ocelot said that to me. I even told him about everything: I was in a different world, I was a student in a special school called Hope's Peak Academy, where the brightest and most talented young people are gathered and studied there. And of course, about my talent being the 'Ultimate Secret Agent', which I was very good at hiding and such.
"'Ultimate Secret Agent?' You must be joking, kid. I've been with a LOT of weird stuff, but I didn't bring you here just to make fun. I brought you here just to help you up and leave." Ocelot berated me.
I tried to argue, though. "But... I have nowhere to go, like I said earlier. But I heard from someone that you were part of the 'Intel Team'. Um, maybe I could join in. I can work as a spy!"
"A spy? You?" Master Ocelot gave me a serious look as he walked towards me. "Do you have any idea what are you talking about?"
"Huh?" I gulped.
"You think about being a spy is being a child's play?" I remember Master Ocelot looked me into the eye. "Being a spy is not about girls and champagne like you see in some James Bond film."
I stared at him, a bit scared as he continued.
"Each and every day, your life is on the line. You always work in secret, not even knowing what's gonna happen next. When you get caught, either you're in behind bars or in a body bag. You will get yourself killed if you do that, kid. More like you're signing a death warrant."
PRESENT DAY
*Mukuro's POV*
"The words Master Ocelot said to me made me shiver. He told me that he is also a spy working for this PF. I realized that being a spy is dangerous and each and every day, it's more like a walk to my grave; very different from those spy movies I have watched back then. I was thinking back then how stupid and naive I was. But... something happened."
"And what's that?" I asked but I noticed that he smirked at me.
"Something unexpected." said Yuto.
"You mean-?"
"Yep. Guess what, I showed him what I am capable of."
FLASHBACK
"So a piece of advice: if you value your life, it's better for you to st-"
Ocelot tried to look at the whimpering boy and... the boy was gone.
"Where did he go?"
Apparently, he tried to find the said boy but to no avail as he looked around.
"Hmph. The kid learned his lesson, alright. Good for him..." Ocelot snorted.
Yet suddenly...
"HYAAAAH!"
The boy with the childlike face tried to attack the white-haired man, using his fist. It caught the man by surprise .However, Ocelot, using his instincts, caught his fist and made a throwing move that brought the boy down. Of course, it hurts.
"Nice try. You caught me off guard on this one, but I'm sorry. It's still a no." Ocelot said.
But the boy tried to get up. "No... it's not... over."
"Stubborn kid..." he sighed. On the other hand, Ocelot saw something from the boy.
His eyes. And something from his neck: the scars.
The boy's eyes full of determination and resolve, despite of his childlike face. And the scar on his neck, implying that he was strangled to death.
Ocelot walked toward the kid and asked him, "Hey, you said that you came from a different world, right?"
Looking back at Ocelot, the boy's mood changed from being angry to curious, and he nodded.
"Those scars... where did you get those?"
"I-I don't know where. But all I remember is that... that..." suddenly, tears began to swell in his eyes.
"Hm?"
"I- I was caught in the neck. Someone strangled me. And then... and then-"
"You're dead."
The boy heard those words as he looked up to Ocelot.
"I saw the scars on your neck. That means someone strangled you and snapped it. Then you died."
It's a slap in the face to the boy. 'I died?' he thought to himself. How can this be? It's impossible! But another question pondered in his mind and came up with these words:
"Why am I alive?"
Ocelot looked down on the boy as put his hand on the boy's shoulder. "I can't give you the best answer, kid. But perhaps... fate has given you a second chance."
"Second... chance...?" the boy muttered.
"That's right." Ocelot nodded.
As the boy continued to cry, he suddenly hugged the white-haired man; this took Ocelot by surprise as he started the pity the boy. So, like a father, he hugged him back.
"Easy now, kid; easy now... let it all out..." Ocelot comforted the boy.
After the tears dried for the childlike boy, the cowboy-clad man let off the hug and looked down on him.
"You know, boy, I saw your eyes when you stared at me, trying to stand up."
"What?" the boy pondered.
"I saw your own resolve. And... What you did back there, it caught me off a little bit. It takes more of a bit... practice. Well, not bad." the man complemented little Yuto.
The boy couldn't even speak about what he heard. A mix of emotions swirled inside his heart. He wasn't sure what it is or anything, but one thing is for sure:
The boy earned the man's praise.
As Ocelot stood up, he said to the boy, "You want to be a spy? I told you before; it's not as easy as you think. It's the dirtiest job in the world, much dirtier than being a soldier. What do you say? You're still gonna do it?"
The boy looked again at the cowboy-clad man. And suddenly, something entered into the boy's mind as he widened his eyes...
Memories. The memories concerning his death, including his dying moments; but above all, he finally knew the killer, the one who caused his demise:
A tall, young man with long-shoulder length messy black hair and pale blue eyes; for instance, he knew that he was the killer that caused his demise. However, another figure showed up… and it scared him.
A tall, young girl who sports dark red hair... and changes into strawberry blonde. And along with her glowing red eyes, the figure made a menacing smile. More like a face that wreaks... despair.
However, he hold on with a little bit of courage as he closed his eyes, took a deep breath and he faced the man once again.
"I have made my decision. I am ready."
The man raised an eyebrow as the boy continued to speak.
"Sir, I was described of being a kid because of my looks. So I am very good at hiding and easily forgotten by other people. I don't like being treated like this. But I believe that these traits can make me become a secret agent.
"But there's more than that: I remember everything, including the fact of how I died and who killed me. But... I don't care. No matter what happens, I want to stay! I want to have a reason to live! I was given a second chance and I don't want to throw it away!" the boy declared.
The boy's declaration had caught off Ocelot. Yes, this is a kid, in front of him. And because of the boy's resolve, he made his decision as he walked towards little Yuto.
"Kid, you can stay here. I'll take you in and... I'm going to train you."
"Huh? Really!?" it caught Yuto by surprise as his eyes are now brimming with hope.
"Not so fast." Ocelot said. "Are you really sure about this? There's no turning back when you made your choice, but..."
He gave the childlike boy a smile.
"That's also part of growing up."
Then Yuto joyfully replied. "Yes, sir!"
"Good." Ocelot nodded. "So... what's your name, kid?"
The boy gave an answer. "Yuto. Yuto Kamishiro."
PRESENT DAY
*Mukuro's POV*
"So that's it: the start of your new life." I noted.
"Yeah, you're right." Yuto nodded. "Those training regimens are damn hard and rough, but I managed to overcome them. I learned how to fire a gun; I learned how to fight; not to mention the fact that Master Ocelot taught me the art of espionage. Each and every day, I learned and furnished my craft. But as the days go by, we grew closer to each other. He raised me like a son. And now, here I am. I am a part of Diamond Dogs' Intel Team. And as they say, the rest is history."
"From a little kid to a capable young man; I am proud of you... Rabbit." I told him.
"Heh, now you're calling me on my codename, which is fitting to be exact." I saw him smirk.
"Oh, it's almost lunch. I'm hungry." I said as I look the time.
It's 11:30. Thirty minutes before lunch.
But before I started to walk, I turned to the then little guy. "You wanna come at the mess hall?"
"Go ahead, Mukuro." Yuto told me. "I'll catch up. Need things to do."
"Work-related?"
"Isn't it obvious?" he chuckled.
I can't help but to smile and said, "Okay. Later." I waved him as I go on my way to the Mess Hall, along with the file and the tape. But this time, I'll drive a jeep.
"Fenrir!" as Shadow Rabbit called me out, I turned to him and he made a gun gesture, pointing on me...
"See you on your next mission."
...and concluded with a salute.
I smiled back and walked forward. I can't even help to think about this:
'People really change.'
Diamond Dogs' Mother Base
Seychelles Waters
Command Platform
4:07 in the afternoon
Shadow Rabbit is on the balcony, looking down at Mukuro as the latter makes her way into the chopper and enters.
"So she decided to embark on a mission, huh…" Yuto commented.
"Well, she's a soldier. That's her job." Yuto turned and it was none other than Ocelot, along with DD who approached him. "Of course, she can handle it."
"Ah, sir!" Yuto saluted.
"At ease, Rabbit." Ocelot raised his hand as the young Intel guy dropped down the salute. Then the wolf pup barked happily as he ran towards Yuto, which Yuto carried him.
"Hey, DD! How's it going?" Yuto said. The wolf pup barked in response.
"Haha, good boy." the young Intel agent chuckled. Both of them looked at the chopper and from a distance, Mukuro looked at them as she waved goodbye.
Then the former Super High School Level Secret Agent called out, "Hey, be careful!"
Then Mukuro called back. "Don't worry! I'll be back!"
And the chopper went off its way.
"So, how's your little chit-chat?" Ocelot asked as Yuto put down DD.
"It turned out well. I gave her the mission details and the briefing tape. But above all… it's more like a talk between former schoolmates." Shadow Rabbit recalled.
As Ocelot stood beside Yuto, he turned to the young man and asked "Remembering your high school days?"
"More than that." Yuto said. "More of our fates, our second chances, and even told my story to her; about how I get here and how I started my new life."
Then the boy turned to his mentor.
"And it's all thanks to you, Master."
Ocelot smiled at Yuto's comment. And it's his turn to speak. "The reason I took you in is that you made your choice. And you proved it to me. Now, you are here; a true 'secret agent' and a Diamond Dog."
The young agent smiled in response. "Thanks, old man."
As the white-haired man walked away along with DD, he called out Yuto. "Let's go to the comm room; you're joining with us along with XO Miller. Follow me, son."
"Right behind you, sir!" Yuto soon followed.
CHAPTER END
Author's Note: And that's the end of chapter 3.
I dunno what it is, but I think writing this chapter is a tough one, but at the same time, it was fun.
I actually planned to include Yuto Kamishiro in this fic because of his talent (too bad he got killed in Danganronpa: Zero), with Revolver Ocelot as his mentor and father figure. However, I thought it can work because Ocelot is also a spy. And if you guys are familiar with Peace Walker, the character Paz, who introduced herself as a schoolgirl from Costa Rica, is actually a spy named Pacifica Ocean working for the covert intelligence agency Cipher, which is in turn, a precursor to the Patriots. Not to mention that Paz was orphaned and raised by Cipher. So I asked myself, 'Why not?'
And I played the song "Secret Agent" while writing Yuto's introduction so it really helped me out.
And about a number of characters, who knows, maybe I can include a 'blacksmith' or a 'pharmacist' later on in this story. But we'll see.
My readers, please read and review. Blessings to all.