Author's Notes
I'm taking advantage of the snow days to get this up :D (Only have had one day of school open for the kids for the last two weeks.)
We pick up right where we left off for the last chapter. This chapter I struggled with because I was originally planning to have it cover more events. I realized that 1. I hadn't properly accounted for everything that's happening and needed to expand on some things 2. the flow would be better if I drew out Zero's distressing situation a bit longer :) So, I chopped and transferred some parts to the next chap. This one's still fairly long (I apologize).
Content Warning: There is no character death in this chapter, but there is a brief moment when the villain has some cruel fun. I don't think it'll make anyone upset, because it's only a few words, but I wanted to let you know just in case. Skim over the first few paragraphs if you think you might get uncomfortable.
Disclaimer
SD Gundam Force is produced by Sunrise and Bandai. My OCs presented or mentioned in this chapter are Aleda, Titan, Mary Vaughn, and Via Vaughn. All other characters and names belong to Sunrise and Bandai.
Chapter 22: Panic at the SDG
"Zero!" Aleda cried.
The Winged Knight gasped in pain as he futilely grasped at the lance impaling him.
"Uncomfortable, Winged Knight? How about a little twist?" Tallgeese sneered, giving a tug on his weapon. Zero croaked.
"Tenk-yo-ken!" A blazing line severed Tallgeese's hold on the lance. Bakunetsumaru charged in, one arm limp and one sword aflame in preparation for another slice, with angry fire in his eyes to match. Tallgeese, clutching his crispy hand, flew away as fast as if the devil himself chased him.
Mercurius leapt out of Captain's reach, whizzed by to snatch his brother, and followed Tallgeese. "Tenkyoken!" Baku shouted again, sending his flames in pursuit. The air exploded, but when the cloud settled, their foes were still flying. The samurai, panting, screeched to a halt and yelled after them, "I'll kill you!"
"I'll be back, for that one!" Tallgeese declared, casting a glare at Aleda across the wide expanse. She recoiled and shuddered under the leering look, before Tallgeese turned away and vanished into the distance.
The lance inside Zero disappeared into whatever magic realm it had come from, leaving behind a gaping hole next to his GunSoul. A jerk rocked him. His lady caught him as he began to collapse. "Zero! Zero!" He sank slowly to his knees in her tight hold. "Are you okay?! Say something!" Aleda cried, peering into the knight's pain-stricken face as tears began to build in her eyescreens.
"Are…you alright…Little Wing?" Zero breathed weakly. "He…didn't…hurt you?"
Aleda's GunSoul twisted. "I'm fine, Zero. Not a scratch on me. Hold on, I'll heal you!"
"I…I want to…lie down…" Zero wheezed out. He winced as another shudder tore through his body.
Aleda obediently, and gently, lowered him on his side. "Hold on, Zero! I'll seal it up for you!" She reached, and the magic of her touch capped the sparking wire ends visible inside his wound. "The pain should be gone, now," she said. But, Zero's frame no longer moved. "Zero?"
No answer.
"Zero?!" She pressed her face to the ground to peer under the visor and found the eyes unlit. "Zero! Zero!"
The rest of the Gundam Force, panting, reached their Lacroan comrades. Titan limped forward, dropped, and touched Zero's GunSoul. "The leaks have been stopped, but the circuits have not yet reconnected." When Aleda closed her eyes and willed the glow in her hand to return, Titan grabbed her. "Don't, you'll make it worse!" he said. "He has lost too much energy! His systems are seizing up! Casting the healing magic now would hasten the freeze of his vital units!"
"What do I do?!"
"We need a different healing spell. A better one than either of us know."
Captain knelt down, his green visor sliding over his eye.
"Can we save him?" Baku asked Captain softly as the Neotopian studied their fallen comrade.
Captain's visor retracted, and he met his friends' worried gazes. "He's still alive. It missed his GunSoul by only 4.02 centimeters. There are many ongoing major disruptions to his systems. We need to get him back to White Base, immediately. If he does not receive compatible supplemental energy, the projected calculations say that he will cease all functions within the hour."
Aleda whimpered and hugged Zero's helmeted head, fighting the cries that tried to escape her. But they were slipping out, in spite of her efforts. Titan hesitantly hovered his uninjured hand over her shaking shoulder.
Shute crouched beside her. "Don't worry. He'll make it. Zero's tough."
"How much of a chance is there?" Baku asked Captain over the Gundamess's tears.
"There is only a 30% chance that we will save him," Captain said sadly.
Baku recoiled as if his own GunSoul had been pierced. "What?!"
"We may or may not have a compatible energy source. Neotopians and Lacroans run on different energy types. They may be able to give some of theirs," Captain said, gesturing to the fretful Knight Gundam and the tearful Gundamess, the latter beginning to stroke Zero's face. "The next choice would be yours. But if no one's energies are compatible, then we'll have to try energy conversion. And that has a slim chance of success."
Baku shook his head in distress. "Please, don't tell me the numbers."
...
The two Gunperrys arrived in minutes. "Stabilize the patient!" said a GM as he and two others rushed to Zero. Aleda had to release her knight and watch the mobile citizens lower him onto a stretcher.
"Everyone, load up, quick!" another GM ordered as they worked.
"Captain! Pee-wee! With me!" Gunbike sped up the ramp of one Gunperry, and Captain and Shute ran after him.
The rest preceded Zero's stretcher into the second Gunperry. "This way," a GM waved them over to the side, away from a mountain of wires, screens, and batteries hugging the opposite corner. Within seconds, the GMs set their patient down at the small repair station, and the ramp had closed them all into the crowded space. Aleda braced herself against the wall as the Gunperry rose. Baku maintained balance on his own two feet and stared at his friend as the GMs shone their helmet-mounted lights into Zero's chest hole.
"These should be energy circuits. Connect the battery here!"
They lowered wires with alligator clips on each end into the Knight Gundam. "Don't look at it," Baku said to Aleda, who still watched. When she was slow to turn her wide eyes away, he pulled her shoulders to steer her.
"What are they doing?" Titan asked.
A GM beside them said, "They are applying Zero's emergency energy ration in order to keep his functions operational."
"Emergency energy ration?" Baku repeated.
"Chief Kao Lyn found the limited repair options for the damage you sustained from Ashuramaru unacceptable, so he formulated a more effective response for the next dire situation. All Sola Diorama Gundams in the SDG have had some of their energy siphoned into batteries in case of emergencies."
"...Are you saying he took my life force without asking me?" Baku grumbled.
"I think it a prudent decision," Titan said.
Aleda hugged herself.
"The energy is accepted! Energy level rising by 0.01% every three seconds!"
"Are there still leaks?"
"No leakage detected. Excess energy drain is occurring. Systems are at 23.82% of normal efficiency. Fan speed at approximately 163% of normal rates. Temperature of critical components in excess of 25 degrees above normal."
"Maintain external energy source. Cool the subject to increase efficiency."
Aleda shuttered her optical sensors, but, in spite of how those words yanked at her core, she was too afraid to switch off her audios, lest she suddenly lose Zero without even hearing it.
As the minutes drew on, and as floor fans buzzed, Baku began to pant heavily. "Your shoulder still hurts you," Titan said with a regretful frown.
Aleda blinked open her optics. Baku cradled his shoulder, and his eyes were shut tight in a grimace. Gently, Aleda pried his hand away and touched the shoulderguard, where the blue glow of her magic penetrated the armor and outer frame, seeping down to the joint. Baku's frame relaxed. "Thanks. That's good for now. Wait until we get back."
Aleda nodded.
...
Twenty minutes post-combat, the injured Lacroan knight was lying on an operation table in Kao Lyn's workshop. The low SDG-emblazoned room dividers sectioned off the messy workspace strewn with carts bearing pliers and welding tools, computer screens, bright tripod lamps, and a couple of chairs, so that Kao Lyn and Bell Wood could have privacy with their patient. Zero's helmet had been removed, revealing a mesh-like pattern on the top of his head, and his wound was covered by a thick tarp wrapped around Zero's torso like a bandage. "That's all we'll do until we get some fuel in him," Kao Lyn said, bobbing restlessly by the bed.
"Okay, then, what next?" Bell Wood asked.
"Call in Titan or Aleda. We need to try their energy first: if it works, it'll save us some time, which, I don't have to remind you, is what we need right now."
"Sure thing." Bell Wood jogged through the automatic doors. The Gundam Force waited outside. Near the door, Aleda was raising her hands over Baku's shoulder, while Captain and Titan held him and his limb in place. Baku grimaced but kept himself still for his friends' treatment. Little flecks of grey water damage surrounded Aleda's eyescreens.
Upon seeing Bell Wood emerge, they released Baku and turned expectantly. "He's still alive," Bell Wood said, answering their unspoken inquiry. "But, the emergency reserves are running out, and he could use some more energy. Another Gundam from Lacroa is our best bet."
Aleda immediately came forward. "Take what you need."
"No." Titan released Baku and stepped closer. "Take mine." To Aleda he said, "Keep your strength. Your healing magic is needed." He looked pointedly at Baku.
Aleda frowned but said, "Okay."
Bell Wood waved Titan to follow him. "Come on in; Kao Lyn's already got the machine almost hooked up."
Titan obeyed, and the doors shut.
Aleda sank against the wall. "I know," the samurai beside her said while he rubbed his shoulder. "I wish I could do more, too."
"You both have proved critical in rescuing Zero," Captain chimed in. "You prevented Tallgeese from inflicting further damage, Bakunetsumaru, and Aleda, you stopped the loss of energy. Both of those actions have saved his life thus far."
"And with Titan's energy, he'll be up in no time, right?" Shute said.
"We hope so," Captain said. "In the meantime, there is one other concern that we must deal with. Aleda," he said, focusing his blue eyes on the Gundamess, "Tallgeese seems to have threatened to attempt another assault on you. Chief Haro has increased the number of staff on patrol within the base and surrounding Neotopia in anticipation of a future strike. Within minutes, you will be briefed on how you should conduct yourself in the future in order to maximize safety."
Aleda bit her lip behind her facemask. "Okay."
"Don't worry. We'll watch him for you," Shute assured her. "We'll come get you right away if anything changes."
"Thanks."
Soon, Captain escorted Aleda into Chief Haro's office. The chief saluted them as they entered, which they returned. "At ease," Chief Haro said, lowering his hand. "Captain Gundam, please remain while I brief Aleda. I want to ask you some questions, too."
"Yes, sir."
"Aleda." The bulbous green mask angled its eyes for the Gundamess. "During the last battle, Tallgeese specifically threatened to target you in another attack. Do you know why?"
Aleda shook her head, saying, "No, sir."
"Did anything happen during the battle that could give a clue as to what he wants?"
"He kept looking at me, and then he tried to—" She shivered and coiled inward. "—to get me. That's all I know."
"Did you notice anything out of the ordinary, Captain?" Chief Haro asked.
"Zero and Tallgeese shouted at each other, and their line of vision returned frequently to Aleda," Captain said. "It seemed to me that they were having an altercation concerning her."
"Could you hear what they said?"
"Some of the audio recorded in my databanks is audible, sir."
Chief Haro nodded. "That's all for now, Captain. We'll analyze the recording. But, until Tallgeese is neutralized," he continued, "Aleda, you are restricted to the confines of White Base at all times, and you will have at least one personnel guarding you at any given moment."
Aleda blinked her glassy eyes.
"Our goal is to keep you hidden and protected. We suspect that Tallgeese has a way to track his targets, which is why he was able to ambush the Gundam Force during Fenn's relocation and, today, to surprise you and Zero. We have to assume that Tallgeese is capable of tracing you here," Chief Haro stated carefully. "We are preparing for every possible scenario. Dr. Bell Wood will pause development of the Dimensional Transport Device in order to create a dampener that can cover the energy signatures of Gundams. Patrols are increased, and Zero will also be watched 24/7." He tapped his thumb against his knuckles. "I hope you understand the gravity of the situation."
"Yeah, I do..."
Chief Haro stepped closer to lay a hand on Aleda's shoulder, which temporarily brought her focus to his face. "You are a target, now, so watch your back and stay in our sights. Be ready to fight for your life at a moment's notice." His yellow-blinking eyes bore into her green ones. "I know that you are concerned for Zero, but make sure you keep up your strength. In the worst case, you will need it." He gave her a squeeze. "Do you understand, Aleda?"
The Gundamess numbly bobbed her head. "Yes, sir..."
"Good. You are dismissed. You may return to Chief Kao Lyn's workroom in order to wait for a status update on Zero, if you wish. Captain, escort her."
"Yes, sir!" With a quick salute, Captain turned to Aleda and followed her slow drift out of the Chief's office.
...
Aleda planted herself beside the doorway, again. Chief Haro's words swam in her head like carnival goldfish that dodged away whenever her net dipped in: full comprehension eluded her in her anguish. Baku pat her on the shoulder consolingly. "It'll be fine."
"Chief Kao Lyn has not had any other news?" Captain asked.
"No. But, still, it'll be fine."
Several minutes later, Kao Lyn poked his head out of the doorway with a smile. "Good news!"
Five faces lifted.
"Titan's energy seems to be working!"
"So, he's...?" Baku began.
"His vital systems are all receiving energy. Everything's patched up or replaced. Temporarily, of course," Kao Lyn elaborated. "His nanites hopefully will repair the circuitry so it'll hold. I'm not sure how well his body will take to the welding, or the wires we put in as replacements—they're not exactly made of the same stuff. I don't even know if we could reduce his pain. But give him a bit, and hopefully his nanites will repair him."
"So he'll…recover?" Aleda asked with baited breath.
"There's a good chance, woo-yah!" Kao Lyn said, celebrating with a karate kick.
"That's the Zero I know!" Baku said with a grin, "Never giving up without a fight!"
Joyful tears welled up in Aleda's eyes, and she smiled. When she found her voice, again, she murmured, "…Thank you, Kao Lyn." She quickly began wiping away her tears before they could slip down her cheeks.
"He's not out of the woods, yet! But, he's got a good chance," Kao Lyn repeated.
"Can we see him?" Shute asked.
"Yes! Come on in!"
Aleda, Bakunetsumaru, Captain, and Shute swarmed into the lab. In the dim room, a battery box was tethered to Titan, and the wires of another slid up under the tarp covering Zero's wound. The group bunched close to their injured friend. "Careful, don't touch anything!" Kao Lyn warned. "If anything comes out, then he'll be in trouble!"
Baku warily backed away.
"You took his helmet off," Shute observed, bending down to pick up the Romanesque armor piece off the floor. "Woah, it's heavier than I thought!" he said as he lifted it. "I didn't even know his could come off."
"In Ark and Lacroa, everyone's helmet can come off," Baku said. "We just don't do that, often."
Aleda stilled as she beheld the graceful curve of her knight's face. Awe, momentarily, erased the worry in her eyes, and longing mixed with the dull ache in her GunSoul. She touched her sore gem. He's beautiful. His handsome face had been a constant reassurance to her since the day they'd met. Her voicebox tightened, squeezed by the fear of losing her cherished protector.
"His condition is not anywhere near full recovery," Captain noted with disappointment.
Baku peered back at the Gundamess hovering near the rear of the group. "You can come closer, you know," he said.
"O-Oh." Blushing, Aleda weaved through and pulled a chair next to the table to sit. The knight's eyes were still lifeless and dark. "Will he wake up soon?" she asked.
"Not sure. Could be any time from three hours to three days," Bell Wood admitted.
"Woo!" Kao Lyn exclaimed, arching backwards to stretch his muscles. "I'm feeling tired and hungry. Bell Wood, set up the monitoring system to make my watch go off if Zero's status changes. I'm going to get a snack." The scientist bounded out of the lab before Bell Wood could protest.
The teenage genius groaned. "Of course! Leave the broken Gundam with the physicist!" After a minute of muttering and pushing little levers and knobs on the machine, he stomped behind one of the huge walls of partition mats dividing Zero from the rest of Kao Lyn's projects. The Gundam Force heard a heavy smack and slide, presumably as the young scientist threw his back against the divider and sulked.
"I will patrol this block of White Base for any signs of intruders," Captain said. "Titan, I know that you have some injuries that require rest, but I request that you remain with Aleda until my return."
Titan grunted his assent.
Aleda continued to gaze at her sleeping knight. "Okay. I'll stay here with Zero for a while."
"You look really tired," Shute said. "Is there something I can get for you to make you feel better?"
"My sketchbook would be nice. It's in the top drawer of my dresser, the one with the flowers."
"Uh…I don't know your password…?" Shute said, scratching his head uncomfortably.
"Oh, yeah. It's 8958."
"Okay. Anything else?"
"No. But, uhm…don't look in the sketchbook, please."
Baku laughed. "Have something private in there?
"Don't worry, I won't look at it," Shute promised. "See you in a minute!" He turned and walked with Captain through the sliding doors.
"I'm sticking around here," Baku said, striding to the thick table where his friend lay. He sat at the base and leaned back against its solid side.
Aleda placed her white hand on Zero's and waited.
...
Captain's V-fin flashed, and the Neotopian Gundam paused. "Captain Gundam, Chief Haro requests Bakunetsumaru to his office for a debrief. We do not want to disturb those in Chief Kao Lyn's laboratory. Could you notify Bakunetsumaru?" came Juli's voice.
"Roger." Captain marched back to the lab and stepped in. The occupants looked up. "Bakunetsumaru," Captain called. "You are requested."
The Musha Gundam smoothly climbed to his feet. "For how long?"
"I do not believe it will be more than 5.4832 minutes."
"Good. I'll be back, soon, guys." He waved at Aleda as he strode toward Captain. "Hey, take good care of him."
The Gundamess flushed. "Uh, o-okay."
Once the doors closed behind them, Captain said to Baku, "Chief Haro wishes to speak with you for a debrief."
"Sure thing." Baku stepped past him to continue on while the Neotopian lingered at the door.
"Bakunetsumaru," Captain began, catching his step. "I believe that Chief Haro will soon discuss this information with you, but as a friend to Zero and to Aleda, I feel that I must speak with you about the exchange I overhead between Zero and Tallgeese."
Baku slowed. "Overheard?"
"Zero had defeated Mercurius, so I had fewer stimuli competing for my focus." Captain neared his friend so he could lower his voice to a conversational volume. "Tallgeese believes that Aleda has a Summon Spirit."
Baku gaped. "A Summon Spirit? You mean like Fenn?"
Captain nodded. "Yes."
"Why does he think that?"
"That, I did not hear."
"Do you think he's right?"
"The probability is only 9.73%. I have observed no characteristics or behaviors indicating the presence of another being within Aleda or anywhere else on the premises."
"But, still, he's going to come after her."
"That is the best assumption."
Baku, glowering, punched a fist into his palm. "When he tries, I'll roast him! He's not getting away with what he's done!"
"Remember that a defensive posture would be more effective than an offensive one."
"The way I see it, if there's no Tallgeese, then he can't do anything else to Aleda or Zero." Baku puffed out his chest. "That's my goal!"
"A valid point. I will continue to scan for any enemy magic activity." The Neotopian Gundam started off down another hall as he added, "Go ahead to meet Chief Haro."
"Right. I'll be back, soon!" Baku jogged the other way.
...
Bell Wood's distant mutters drifted over the side of the partition, but besides that soft din, Titan and Aleda were alone. "Milady," Titan began after a few moments of silence. "I must say something, while there is time to say it."
She turned her green eyes attentively to him.
"Tallgeese has declared that he will return to attack you, again." Titan shifted with a creak to partially sit up on the table so he could face her. "You are no longer safe here, Lady Aleda."
"I don't want to leave." Aleda gripped Zero's hand tighter with both of hers. "It was an accident. Zero and I won't go out alone, again. It'll be fine." Behind her mouthguard, she bit her lip. "Besides, I promised myself I'd stay and help."
"It won't end well."
"Zero can protect me."
"Yes, he can. And it does this to him." Titan gestured to Zero's damaged body.
Aleda winced.
"It is as I said, milady. It is best that he has no distractions."
The door hissed open, and Shute jogged in with a wide, square object. "I have your sketchbook!" he called. Then, seeing beads of moisture in the corners of Aleda's eyescreens, he slowed, saying, "Hey, did something happen?"
Aleda shook her head. "No..."
Shute, swallowing back his curiosity, laid the sketchbook into Aleda's lap. "Well, here you go, Aleda."
"Thanks, Shute."
"No problem." Shute flashed her a sympathetic smile. "Just don't worry too much, okay? Everything will be fine." He pat Zero on the shoulderplate. "Get better soon, okay, Zero?" he said to the unconscious 'bot. Looking at the conscious Gundams in the room, he continued regretfully, "I have to go for now. Chief Haro says it's time for me to go home. I'll see you tomorrow."
Forcing a brave smile, Aleda said, "See you."
"Farewell, young one," Titan said.
The boy gave a last wave to them before slipping beyond the sliding doors.
Titan laid back on the table, again, patiently waiting for their conversation to resume.
Aleda pulled her chair closer to Zero's table and spread open her sketchbook. A mechanical pencil popped into her hand, and she deliberately traced a new line.
When the waiting yielded no response, Titan spoke, "What are your thoughts, milady?"
The pencil's dance slowed. "I'm staying right here," she said firmly. "I'm not moving until he wakes up." The traces resumed, and Titan kept his silence.
...
"So, you haven't noticed anything unusual?" Chief Haro asked the Musha Gundam.
"Nothing we didn't already know," Baku said. "But, Titan could probably tell you more about that. And Zero, once he wakes up."
"I hope so." Chief Haro shifted. "Aleda, I know, has always been self-conscious about differences from her peers. Another unknown of this magnitude, depending on its true nature, could negatively impact her morale—even more than the current circumstances. I would like to know everything I can before I decide how to approach her." He raised his masked head. "Go bring Titan for me. And don't say anything about this to Aleda."
Baku bowed. "I understand, sir."
...
Baku sauntered in to find Bell Wood staring at a monitor of Zero's vitals and Kao Lyn spinning around Titan. "You're ready to go get some rest in a real bed," Kao Lyn said, beaming, to the bulky knight. "Your frame can easily repair the rest of the damages."
"Thank you." Titan lifted himself from the table with his flight boosters. "I will."
"Make sure to take it easy!"
"Hey!" Baku called out in greeting.
Aleda paused her sketch to offer him a small smile. "Hi, Baku." A hill and trees had taken shape on the page.
Titan lowered his heavy feet softly to the floor. "You should come and eat, milady," he said to the Lady Gundamess.
"Can I eat here, Chief Kao Lyn?" she immediately asked.
"I see no reason why not," the scientist answered.
"I'll bring you something to eat!" Baku offered.
"Thanks, Baku."
Titan huffed. "Hmph. Then, I shall remain, as well."
"You can't, because you have a debrief as an SDG member," Baku objected.
So it was with a protest and a frustrated growl that Titan reluctantly followed the Blazing Samurai out of Aleda's presence.
Aleda sighed into her hands once the door closed.
"He's very protective of you, isn't he?" Kao Lyn laughed as he flipped through Zero's vitals readouts on a touch screen.
"It kind of scares me."
"Really? He treats you as if you were his little sister," Kao Lyn's bobbing form said. "Why would that be scary?"
Aleda blinked between her fingers. "Like a sister?"
Bell Wood scoffed. "C'mon, you've got older siblings, right? Don't they look after ya, too?"
She raised her head. "They can be protective, but Titan's a little..." Her tired sideways glance told the rest for her.
Bell Wood shrugged, tapped a few buttons on the console, and then spun around on his heels. "Well, I'm outta here, Chief! I need some food, too! I'm gonna get myself an ice-cream sandwich!"
"Sure thing!" Kao Lyn beamed as the teen genius stalked out. He leaned over to Aleda and whispered, "He could use the extra weight."
In spite of herself, the Gundamess giggled.
...
"Why does Chief Haro wish to speak with me now?" Titan demanded as he stomped beside Baku. "Should I not guard Lady Aleda?"
"Captain's watching her. He doesn't know much about Lacroa or Ark, but he can see magic things. You can trust him to take care of her," Baku said.
"I will return after the briefing, then."
"If you want."
"No measure is too great when we face one who can summon a Sacred Beast of Lacroa."
"Spirits... Oh!" Baku pivoted as his brown eyes suddenly stirred with remembrance. "During the battle, Tallgeese was saying something to Zero about Summon Spirits!"
"Summon Spirits?"
"Yeah. He seems to think Aleda has a Summon Spirit.=!" At Baku's words, Titan jolted, causing the ceiling lights to catch a few green nodes within his worried eyes. "Captain overheard something like that. Do you know why?"
Titan blinked and shook his thick head to rid his confusion. "I don't understand. I have guarded her for fifteen years, and I have never seen any hint of a Summon Spirit."
"Could she have one?"
"No. It is impossible." Titan folded his arms. "Her magical capacity is too small."
Baku scratched a branch of the antler-like maedate on his helmet. "Then why...?"
Titan scanned the floor for his answer. "Perhaps if he detected something..."
"Well, you should talk to Chief Haro about it. He's waiting for you."
"Yes, yes," Titan murmured distractedly. "I suppose I'll speak with Lady Aleda and Captain Gundam after, as well."
"No!" Baku hissed sharply. "You can't talk to Aleda about it!"
"Why not?"
"She has a lot on her mind, already." Baku waved his hand agitatedly—and instantly flinched and rubbed his shoulder.
"I see," Titan said. Then, peering at the Musha Gundam, he said, "Bakunetsumaru, I'll bring food to Lady Aleda after my briefing. You seem to require rest."
"I'm okay."
"Musha Gundams heal best through food and sleep, do they not? Take a rest. If Sir Zero's condition changes, then we will not forget to wake you."
Baku raised a digital eyebrow. "Alright, but I think she's getting tired of you hovering around her like a ga."
"'Ga'?" Titan echoed.
"Those winged night bugs that throw themselves into lamps." Baku waved his hands dismissively while he turned.
"...Did you just compare me to a moth?"
The selectively deaf Musha Gundam strolled towards the living quarters. "I'm gonna take a nap. I'm exhausted."
...
Captain Gundam exited the lab for another check on the block surrounding his charge. He walked, his scanners searching every wavelength to catch even the slightest irregularity. The only unusual thing he saw, though, was Kao Lyn rushing out of the lab. Captain stepped aside of the hasty scientist's path and watched him jump into a restroom. "Perhaps he is feeling ill," the Gundam commented after the door slammed shut.
Then, a low magical hum caught Captain's radar, and he rotated to see big-framed Titan floating towards the lab with a bag of bread, oranges, and apples in hand.
The energy readings matched those typical for Titan, so Captain prepared to turn again to his patrol, but Titan called out, "Captain Gundam!"
Captain paused. "Hm?"
Titan drifted his way. "I wanted to speak with you about Aleda."
"What is your specific inquiry?" Captain said, turning fully.
The Knight Gundam lowered onto the floor. "I have been informed that Tallgeese is targeting her because he believes that she has a Summon Spirit."
Without a blink, Captain said, "Yes, that is what I conclude from his own statements."
"It makes no sense that she would have a Summon Spirit, but it is even more ludicrous to suspect such a thing without some obvious sign." Titan's piercing eyes implored him. "Captain, you can detect magical energy. What do Lady Aleda's energy signatures reveal?"
"Her energy signature bears many similarities to those of Zero and yourself, because she also has magical capabilities. The differences I've attributed to the fact that she is a female."
"Is there any resemblance to the energy signature of a Spirit?"
"Yes, some. But, I have only observed Mmn, the Spirit Griffon, and the Feather Dragon. It is not enough to draw any definite correlations, and, since both Spirits and Lacroan Gundams originate from the Spirit Tree, some energy signature resemblance is to be expected."
"I see."
"None of my observations or readings have indicated that there is a separate entity accompanying Aleda," Captain said. "I do not know why Tallgeese has the impression that she has a Summon Spirit."
"And neither do I." The plastic bag slid down Titan's wrist as he cross his arms.
"I will continue to patrol for signs of intrusion until I need relief for recharge," Captain said. "Guneagle and the Gundivers 1 through 4 have been posted at other locations within the base, too, and GM patrols are increased. Tallgeese should not be able to enter unnoticed."
Titan raised an eyebrow. "Can you maintain your focus until nightfall?"
"Loss of focus due to boredom is not a problem for me. My wiring does not allow for that weakness."
"I see."
"Shute will return soon, too, so I will not be bored, either." Captain switched his eyescreens momentarily to a happy expression of two arched lines. "You should go see Aleda," he continued. "Her body is likely running low on energy, by now."
Titan bowed his head. "Then, please excuse me."
...
Buoyant Kao Lyn twirled around Zero like a fluttering ga. He bent over to peer at his patient's motionless form. "No change from our sleeping beauty," he observed. At the droop of Aleda's wings, he quickly amended, "Which means he hasn't gotten any worse! He's refueling and repairing!"
A listless nod answered him.
"Well," Kao Lyn said, wiggling between the table and a nearby divider wall, "I guess there's nothing left to do but to—" A loud abdominal rumble stopped him short. Aleda watched, with curiosity teetering on terror, as the scientist's belly shook like an angry beehive.
Kao Lyn chuckled embarrassedly. "Sorry! I'll be back!" And he bolted out the lab.
I guess he's worried, too, Aleda mused.
A bleep from her wing decal interrupted her thoughts. Before she had even considered whether she wanted to take the call, her finger had pressed the switch.
"Hi," Aleda began.
"Aleda?" came the concerned, soft voice of her mother.
"Hi, Mom."
"Hi, Aleda! How are you, honey?"
Aleda looked at Zero, and her lip quivered. "I... It's pretty hard, right now."
"Are you still coming home?"
"Huh?"
"Via told us you were on your way home a few days ago, but we never heard from you when you'd be coming."
Aleda blinked. "Oh. I changed my mind. I'm still okay here."
"Oh. Are you sure?"
"Yeah." Aleda closed her optical sensors. "I'm sorry."
"You were saying it's 'hard,' though? Is everything okay?"
Her frown deepened."No. My friend got hurt. But..." Aleda sucked in her breath to steady her tingly body. "I'll be fine. I have to stay here, so..."
"Aleda?"
"I have to go, Mom," Aleda murmured. "I love you." She clicked the trigger on her wing decal before Mary could answer. Somberly, she looked at her wounded knight. His slight breaths whispered in the silence, but otherwise he showed no outward signs of life. She reached out a hand, gently drew it across the side of Zero's face, then unclipped her mouthguard and briefly touched her lips to the side of his faceplate. "Don't go, Zero," she whispered. "I love you."
A waft of magic and the blip of flight boosters caused Aleda to raise her head. Titan stood by the door with a bagful of food. A hand shot to her mouth, and with her other she fumbled for her mouthguard. "O-Oh! Sorry, I didn't notice you!"
"I only came in a moment ago," Titan said. "I have brought you food in place of the Musha Gundam."
Aleda reapplied her mouthpiece, which hid her sigh of relief. "Oh…Well…Thanks for bringing everything. Here, I'll—"
"No need," Titan said as he floated to her. "I am gentleman enough to carry something for a lady."
"Okay…" Aleda reluctantly eased back into her chair.
Titan set the bag in her lap. "Do you need anything else, milady?" he asked.
"No, that's all. Thanks again, Titan."
"It is no trouble, milady."
Rustles echoed in the large room while Aleda extracted an orange and set the bag on the floor.
Titan remained, watching, as the girl pulled an edge of skin. Aleda's green eyes flicked occasionally to her guardian as, piece by piece, the peel fell off into her lap. She plucked a juicy crescent from the fruit core and, again glancing at Titan, pinched both sides of her mouthguard, unclasped it, slid the orange slice in, and chewed. Squish. Squish.
Titan finally blinked. "Oh. I forgot that it's rude to stare."
Aleda swallowed. "It's okay," she said, though with a squirm.
Titan shifted. "...May I keep vigil with you, milady?"
"Sure..."
He moved beside her and, causing a rustle when he pushed the bag and a clank when his leg armor bumped the floor, sat down. His shoulder armor clacked against the edge of a wing segment, which reflexively recoiled. "Sorry."
"It's okay."
The Knight Gundam settled and returned his eyes to the Gundamess, moving them from brown shadows to glimmers of green pixels in the glare of the bright lamps. Aleda continued to gaze at Zero's empty eyescreens while she munched. "You care much for him, don't you?" Titan said.
After another bite, she said softly, "Yeah. He protected me and told me what I am. I feel safe with him." She picked at a few yellowish skin flakes on the orange's surface. "I was always alone and scared, even with my family. I don't know how you stayed alone for fifteen years, without anyone."
"I moved from place to place, and I tried to stay away from most humans, but I spoke with people occasionally. That is how I met Chief Haro and Chief Kao Lyn." Titan brushed a crumb off his armguard. "Otherwise, I would have gone insane."
Aleda gulped down another orange slice, then asked, "Titan? What is Lacroa like?"
"The Winged Knight has told you about it, has he not?"
"Yeah, he did, but I want to hear what you say, too."
Titan rocked back to ease his posture. "I remember it as a beautiful, colorful land, though full of dangers as any other. My teacher August the Wild forbade me to wander out of doors at night, and sometimes knights had to hunt monsters to protect people and livestock."
"Um, I was wondering," Aleda said, "about the names. Zero is called 'the Winged Knight,' the leader of the Royal Knights is 'Rock of the Hot Sands,' and your master is 'August the Wild.' How do they get those names?"
"Titles are given upon knighthood, based upon the peculiar qualities or accomplishments of each knight."
"Oh. What's yours?" Aleda faced him, appearing, with half of the orange cupped in her hands, like an interested squirrel.
Titan smirked dryly. "I have none. My training was incomplete when the portal took us. I was never knighted."
Aleda's wings drooped. "Oh..."
"That is the least of my worries, now."
She raised her eyes shyly. "When you get back to Lacroa, I guess..."
"Perhaps." Titan reached into the bag and fished out an apple. When his mouthguard disappeared without him lifting a digit, Aleda raised an eyebrow.
"I didn't know you could do that," she blurted.
Titan's mouth curled in a grin. "Of course. We have magic." He bit into the apple with a crisp crunch.
Aleda smiled and munched on the next slice.
...
Deep within a forest, miles from the urban center of Neotopia, Tallgeese gazed into a circular, purple-edged display floating in front of a tree. In the midst of the darkened forest lurked Vayeate and Mercurius.
Within the magical image loomed Deathscythe's crackly, wispy face. "We are still searching for the Feather Dragon in Lacroa," the ethereal being stated. "There is nothing unusual to report, Lord Tallgeese—well, that is, unless you consider the antics of your stubborn pet."
"What has Miku done, this time?" Tallgeese inquired. "You confiscated another weapon?"
"No, sire. She attempted to escape."
"Did she?" Tallgeese hummed dangerously. "That is disappointing. Keep an eye on her until I return."
"Yes, Lord Tallgeese."
Vayeate took a step forward. "Lord Tallgeese, are you going to—?"
"Vayeate," Tallgeese snapped, "I didn't say you could interrupt me!"
The aqua-blue Knight of Storms ducked into the shadows again with a quick "Apologies, milord."
Tallgeese returned to the magic screen. "Deathscythe," he uttered. "What do we know of the Four Sacred Beasts of Lacroa? Where are they?"
"The Griffon is with you, Lord Tallgeese, as you know. Aside from that, the other Four have gone into hiding since the battle at Lacroa Castle two years ago. I have searched for them, but Jormungandr, Unicorn, and Phoenix have not been found."
"None of them have made a contract with a warrior?" Tallgeese pressed. "Not even Phoenix?"
"The Phoenix became the Summon Spirit of Rock, Knight of the Hot Sands, during an attack on Lacroa Castle over twenty years ago. She has not been seen since. The greater concern is Feather Dragon, Zero the Winged Knight's Summon Spirit, which is at large in Lacroa."
Tallgeese shook his head. "The Phoenix is here, and I need another Summon Spirit in order to capture the Feather Dragon and to end all of my enemies' plans to retake Lacroa! I must find the enemy stronghold and snatch Phoenix from under their noses!"
Deathscythe's beady eyes blinked. "Are you saying you've seen the Sacred Beast Phoenix in Neotopia?"
"Indeed. When I merged with Griffon, my heightened senses allowed me to detect Spirit energy within a Gundamess, and Griffon recognized her particular scent for the Phoenix."
"But, that is impossible, my lord! My detection spells sense that she and the remaining Sacred Beasts are hidden in Lacroa."
"And yet, she is here." Tallgeese waved his hand, and the purple surface of the screen rippled and then smoothed to show Aleda's gold-edged form. "With this Gundamess. But, the Gundamess is inexperienced in combat. She should be easy to snatch up, if only I can get close enough!"
"With all due respect, Lord Tallgeese, even the Griffon and the Phoenix together could not stand against the might of the Feather Dragon."
"Well, then, what do you suggest?!" Tallgeese growled.
"There are two ways to overpower an enemy. One is with force, and the other with cunning."
Tallgeese turned his head for a birdlike sideways glance. "You have another way to capture Feather Dragon?"
"The Feather Dragon may show itself if lured out by the presence of someone familiar," Deathscythe said.
"Who do you have in mind as bait?"
"Zero would be ideal, but he is most likely terminated. Your Spirit-Gundamess, though..." A moving image of a white-and-gold Gundamess cradling a fluffy round Spirit shimmered in the circle. "This is a memory I extracted from one of my Pawn Leo scouts that I sent to Neotopia. Besides Zero, the Feather Dragon seemed most comfortable with that Lady Gundamess."
"I like that idea," Tallgeese purred.
Author's Notes
The first time I wrote this fic, I just added the new OCs appearing in this latter half of the story as I went. I would come to a point where I said to myself "I need a new character(s)" and then just whipped one up. Same with Miku. Her first mention originally was during her first meeting with a main character. I've tried to be more conscientious this time around to make it more fun to discover the new OCs. Unfortunately, I could only fit Miku in that much during this chapter, but I hope to bring her in fully, soon.
I enjoyed writing those little awkward moments between Titan and Aleda, especially the last one. :3 That aspect of Titan's background-him not achieving knighthood before being kidnapped-is something I've had in my head for a while, which is why I tried to avoid calling him a "knight" in previous chapters. Calling him a "Knight Gundam" I was more comfortable with, though, because I consider that a species/race name rather than a title.
Gundam biology note: I figure the cooling system makes the most sense as a mix of air cooling and liquid cooling. The breathing cools part of the components in a Gundam and the liquid coolant, so that the liquid coolant can then cool the parts that the air can't reach. I haven't explicitly described coolant leakage in the fic because the show only ever showed sparks, and my policy is to aim to show what is needed, not to aim to make the audience squirm. (Though that was borderline at the beginning of the chapter, wasn't it?) I myself am squeamish ("Does that meat have bones?" "Yes, it's a chicken leg." "Then, no thank you."), so I try to be sensitive.
I tried to make Zero's condition mesh with real electronics. Let me know if you noticed anything off.
I apologize if this chapter title is bad XD I had a better one picked out until I had to cut out the latter half. I'm open to suggestions to replace it.
Next chapter will likely be up late February or early March. I guess it depends on if there are more snow days XD
Thank you to everyone who's given me feedback/comments/reviews so far! I love hearing from you! :)
-Penelopi