A/N: Bit of a shorter interlude chapter this time. Not quite an interconnecting chapter between arcs, but a smaller chapter on the whole. Also technically the first fic of the new year, huzzah~

Do enjoy~

Halo

Chapter 14: Emperor

It had been a day since the raid of the Millennium Elysium base.

Though he had made a grandiose entrance, at least in his opinion, Sensei remained mostly behind the frontline due to his lack of durability compared to the girls, taking only a couple pot-shots at droids to distract them and let the others finish them off. All told though the raid was a success, with yet another batch of scientists and guards rounded up and sent to General Student Council, at least for the time being as Rin worked through them for any useful information.

However while the raid was a 'success', the joy felt was somewhat limited, in part because they found the same things they had at the previous bases. A large metal room with piercing metal arms. A dumping room of corpses, featuring students both familiar and not; some of the bodies weeks old judging by the rot. Documents had been gathered from the base but Elysium wasn't stupid, they didn't leave any convenient blueprints or messages for their bosses, and as such all that remained were notes scribbled by scientists about solutions and mathematical calculations, or guard rotation sheets and notes traded between individuals. All useful, but nothing that they were looking for.

As such, once the girls had rested for a day and had time to celebrate another success, Sensei made a decision.

A decision to go to the source of a nagging problem in his mind.

''Sensei... are you sure this is the best decision?''

''I have to agree with Shiroko here, Sensei...''

Sensei smiled thinly at Shiroko and Aru, the two students flanking him on his left and right respectively. Both were armed, naturally, but had their weapons hung low and unthreateningly – though the grip they maintained on them betrayed their nervousness. Around them voices chattered on and people moved about in droves; a mailman shouted out names and others responded, a group of businessmen discussed some buying strategy and egged on the eldest to 'go talk to him about it', a woman typed away on her phone with a stiff upper lip; the room wasn't one he'd usually find himself in, if only because business wasn't his area of expertise.

It was only to be expected though considering their location – Kaiser Corporation Headquarters. The ground floor was buzzing with countless people eager to get into business deals with various branches of the giant conglomerate, be it their weapons sector, its financing arm or elsewhere; Kaiser had its fingers in every pie and it showed in the swathe of business people meandering about. In comparison the three of them stood out somewhat, but if anyone was bothered they didn't bat an eye, too focused on their own work to really care. He was somewhat glad for that.

''It'll be fine.'' Sensei murmured low enough that only his two students could hear. ''If you wanna back out now...''

Shiroko immediately shook her head. ''We're staying. Just...''

''Unsure.'' Aru finished, glancing about with a bit of trepidation.

Sensei nodded, understanding, but didn't say anything else as they approached the front desk. He waited in line behind two other businessmen, waiting patiently for over a minute as they discussed something regarding a future appointment before finally leaving – allowing him and the girls to approach. ''Hello, I believe we have an appointment with the Director.''

The woman behind the front desk – who honestly didn't look much older than his students – raised a brow at him before glancing at said students. ''I see. Do you have a name or ID that you used when making it...?''

The fact that she asked for a name, not his name, rather blatantly spelled out the fact that Kaiser didn't care if the person getting involved with them was doing so under a pseudonym or not, but he held his tongue on that point and answered. ''It should be under 'Sensei'.''

Nodding the receptionist tapped away at her keyboard, the holographic monitor one-sided and preventing him from seeing exactly what she was looking at. After a few seconds she hummed, then nodded. ''I see you now. Your appointment is due in just a few minutes; please take elevator three up right away, he will be waiting for you in his office.''

''Understood, thanks.'' Giving the nameless woman a nod he nudged his two students, leading them away.

It wasn't hard to find their elevator, though it was a bit odd to see a robot already waiting inside; human in stature but with a T-shaped head, his eyes two blue lines that occasionally 'blinked'. However when they approached the robot turned to face them and dipped his head in a slight bow of acknowledgement, gesturing them inside – and, without even pressing a button or asking where they were going, the elevator doors closed and started to ascend.

As the elevator hummed upwards his thoughts turned to Kaiser. The fact that the drone not only landed in their warehouse, but that Elysium's base was directly underneath their warehouse, could not be a coincidence – Kaiser was many things, but stupid was not one of them; they would've noticed such a thing quickly. He'd gone through the extra effort of looking up the property deeds of the area – courtesy of Arona – and had confirmed that the warehouse had been there for well over a decade, so there was no possibility that it had just been built on top of an existing Elysium base. Assuming Elysium hadn't been active prior to that, of course.

Additionally, and far more incriminating, was the fact of the drone itself. Kotama had followed through on her promise and had tracked the Millennium drone – and where else did it end up, but near Kaiser PMC Headquarters? She lost the signal when it got near, probably due to the building's own electronic defences, but considering the storm ceased pretty much next to the building there was no denying that it was suspicious. A slam-dunk case of guilt? No.

But there was a lot of smoke for there to be no fire.

A ding snapped Sensei out of his thoughts, gaze lifting as the elevator doors slid open. The robot-man gestured ahead with a polite greeting and he thanked it, paying it little more than a glance as he marched down the narrow corridor before him. Some plants and portraits lined the walls alongside the occasional chair for waiting but he didn't slow near them, walking straight up to the set of double doors waiting at the end of the corridor; rapping his knuckles upon them.

Only a second passed before a voice came through an unseen speaker. ''You may enter.''

Obliging he grasped the pushed the rightmost door open. Beyond it laid the lavish office befitting an executive; the high ceiling matched only by the equally-tall windows that lined the back and sides of the office, granting an awe-inspiring view of the cities beyond – belonging to the autonomous territories of Trinity and Gehenna, with the building situated directly between both. With how high up the office was everything from the urban residential areas to the populated commercial areas was visible; from the Gehenna Mountains to the Trinity Church, the land laid itself out in a beautiful, nigh-picturesque view.

However Sensei's attention wasn't on the view, not for long. Instead it was on the man sat behind the desk across the room – the Director. He was a hulking behemoth of a man, easily six foot and a half if not taller and very broad-shouldered. His black-and-red suit was somewhat baggy and hid his true form but the metallic head betrayed the amount of modifications he must've made to himself over time, assuming he wasn't a sentient robot from the beginning.

He certainly had the cold, calculated ruthlessness of a robot, that was for sure.

''Sensei.'' The Director greeted lightly, arms spreading out in greeting. ''I do believe this is the first time we've met. Face-to-face like this, at least. How has you stay in Kivotos treated you?''

''Well. I've grown quite fond of the place.'' Sensei didn't need to lie at that, though kept his guard up. ''Have you heard of a place called Del Monte, in Trinity? Quite a nice little café I frequent; does some lovely cakes.''

''I'll be sure to visit it then next time I'm there.'' The Director dipped his head in a slight nod, face plates shifting to mimic a smile. ''Enough pleasantries though, I'm sure you're a very busy man. What brings you to request a meeting with me?''

Sensei approached the large man's desk. ''Recently there's been a slew of student kidnappings. I'll spare the grisly details, but only a tiny handful of those taken have been saved before it was too late, mostly thanks to Schale's intervention. The group behind this have underground bases around Kivotos and we've been tracking and raiding each one.''

''I see.'' The Director hummed, easing himself into his chair once more; metal plates shifting to make his brows furrowed. ''That's tragic to hear. So many lives, snuffed out so soon...''

''That's not all.''

''I didn't think it would be. You wouldn't be here if it was.'' The Director answered, glowing red eyes like unblinking visors.

''The kidnappers used optical camouflage to hide when taking the students – ambushing them in alleys, buildings, possibly even in public when nobody was looking.'' Sensei intoned sharply, unable to quite keep the accusation out of his tone. ''I checked with Trinity and they confirmed that Kaiser PMC made such devices. Additionally, the base we raided in Millennium was built underneath a Kaiser PMC warehouse – and the drone that was transferring something from the underground base was last seen right next to your HQ before its signal disappeared.''

There was a moment of heavy silence.

''You're accusing me and my company of being responsible of the deaths of an unknown amount of students.'' The Director repeatedly slowly, as if to confirm.

Sensei didn't respond, not daring to. He knew full well that treading on the toes of the Kaiser Corporation was a dangerous move, not because of whatever firepower they had but the sheer number of places they had their fingers in, both legal and not. Was he afraid for his life? Somewhat, he supposed; a creeping sense of anxiety bundling in his throat and making his stomach twist into knots, but he quashed such sensations as best he could.

After a long moment The Director hummed. ''That's a bold accusation, Sensei, as I'm sure you're aware. That said, neither I nor my company are in any way responsible, I'm afraid. We sell weapons and technology, we don't guarantee that they'll be used safely. It's in our product guarantee and company memo.''

''Yes, but-''

''All the equipment was sold legally.'' The Director cut him off, face plates moving to form a smile. ''So while I understand your concern, Sensei, I assure you that neither I nor my company have done any wrongdoing.''

Sensei didn't admit defeat yet however. ''And will the public feel the same if they were to catch wind that your devices were being used by what amounts to a terrorist group?''

The Director paused at that, then hummed – a deep, thrumming sound that accompanied the man's red eyes narrowing into slits. ''I'm not sure. What I am sure of is that it would be a terrible tragedy if you weren't able to leave the building, Sensei.''

The threat hung in the air. Shiroko and Aru shifted, glancing at the walls, looking for any sort of hidden turret or pipe that could flood the room with gas. They found none, not that it helped settle their nerves – nor Sensei's.

''Is that a threat?'' Sensei asked the obvious.

''Threat? No, I would never threaten, Sensei.'' The Director leaned forth in his chair, his elbows resting upon his desk. ''It is merely an irrefutable statement.''

Glowing red eyes met the cold grey ones of Sensei, their gazes locked.

Until Aru stepped forth. ''I think we could resolve this much more amicably, don't you?''

Sensei blinked in surprise, turning his gaze onto Aru as the Director did the same, a hint of surprise on his face. ''Oh?''

''We don't need to be so hostile, do we?'' Aru said as she glanced at him. ''Kaiser just wants good business, and Sensei here wants to find the students still taken by this mysterious organisation behind it – surely cooperation here would be mutually beneficial for both our groups? I believe Kaiser is aware that their influence has waned somewhat in Trinity as of late, right? Imagine how their opinion might change if word gets out Kaiser has been working with Sensei to catch them!''

By the time she had finished she was smiling brightly,.every bit the businesswoman she tried to portray herself as – and for once Sensei could see her being one.

''Hm... yes, now that you mention it, that would be quite beneficial to us both.'' The Director agreed, all smiles as he leaned back into his chair. ''I'll have a full list of those that purchased out camouflage equipment sent to you then, Sensei. In exchange for good mention of us when you decide to make a public statement regarding this investigation.''

The fact Kaiser didn't imply a contract in that made him wary, but he decided to take it as a token of good faith. ''Right. What about the bases though, and the drone?''

''I'm afraid I don't have the slightest clue.'' The Director shrugged. ''I will be having someone investigate though. Last thing we need is somebody thinking the Kaiser Corporation is involved with their ilk, hm?''

Sensei just hummed, not daring to speak his mind lest he sabotage the peace Aru had managed to hash out, however tentative it was. ''I see. We'll be on our way then.''

''Have a safe trip back, Sensei.'' The hulking beast of a man smiled. ''And for the sake of our agreement, I do hope you find these errant students.''

''Yeah.'' He turned. ''The feeling is mutual.''

No further comments came, and with his students in tow Sensei vacated the office of the stoutly man.

Only when they exited the elevators and were on the ground floor once more, their voices hidden partially by the general thrum of conversation, did Sensei deign to speak. ''Good work Aru.''

''A-Ah, it was nothing, Sensei...'' Aru said a bit shyly.

''I'm serious. I probably would've messed things up there if you'd let me keep talking.'' Sensei said with a rueful smile. ''Negotiations aren't my speciality.''

''I agree.'' Shiroko also piped up, a slight upwards quirk to her lips. ''I'm impressed.''

''W-Well, if you say so...'' The red-haired sniper blushed under the praise, though the way she preened told of her true feelings she tried to dampen. ''A-Anyway! Are we heading back to Schale now, Sensei?''

''Mm. Let's take the next train, should give us the time to grab some lunch for everyone.''

X-x-X

As promised, Kaiser PMC sent over all records involving the optical camouflage tech they'd sold, dating back to the very first models that had been sent to Millennium way back when the tech was first put on the market.

It wasn't a terribly long list, just a dozen pages in total, but each one had to be scrutinised heavily due to the fact none of them were conveniently sent to a 'Elysium Incorporated' or anything blatantly obvious. Instead the majority of sales were either to Trinity or Gehenna, usually upgrading or replacing older models, with various other kits sent to the other autonomous territories as well. Nothing alarming, but he had to cross-reference each one with information he'd gotten from Rin, who in turn had gotten it from the various Student Councils to confirm the purchases.

And unfortunately, everything matched up. It was just as the Director had said; everything was done completely legally... and, as such, there was nothing incriminating or anything included. He could rule out the risk of the Director not putting some on the list; every purchase from the schools was accounted for. Which, more worryingly, opened the door to another possibility – that someone at one of the schools had ordered the camouflage tech but used it for their own purposes, whether that be giving it to Elysium or just selling it off on the black market. Such a thing was rare, but not unheard of. With enough money you could buy practically anything there.

Sighing Sensei leaned back into his chair, staring at the ceiling of the recreation room. The others were gathered sporadically around it, some lounging on couches whilst others remained by the windows, peering out and making small talk with one another. With his office still being repaired due to the broken windows he had to do his work elsewhere. He was already missing the familiar comfort of his desk.

''What's wrong, Sensei?'' The murmured words of Aru drew his gaze over to her. She was sat in the chair next to him, the remains of her to-go dinner on the floor by her feet as she looked over her own set of documents, helping him paint a picture of the various transactions.

''I think we've got a dead end.'' The raven-haired man responded softly, grimacing. ''It wasn't a useless trip, but... I had hoped for more leads than zero.''

Aru frowned and nodded slightly, gazing at her documents for only a few moments before she glanced over at him. ''Erm... what was with your reaction to the Director, if I may ask? You're not one to lose your head so easily Sensei. I was worried you'd start yelling with how tense you were.''

Sensei sighed, tucking the documents into the gap between the cushion and the arm of the chair; freeing his hands. ''Let's just say Kaiser hasn't exactly endeared themselves to me. The situation with Abydos is pretty much the biggest reason though.''

''With Abydos...?'' Aru trailed off, confused.

Ayane, who was sat nearby scrolling through her tablet, glanced over and piped up. ''Kaiser has been buying up land in Abydos for some time now. At first we weren't really concerned, assuming they wanted it for developmental purposes, and sold it off without much protest – we need the money to pay for the loans we owe Kaiser. Over time though they've bought up so much that our school is pretty much one of the few remaining parcels not under their control. We don't know why they want Abydos, but it's our home, so we've not sold it.''

''Doesn't help that Kaiser keeps upping the amount of interest owed.'' Sensei noted with displeasure. He withheld his more critical opinions for his student's benefit, but he couldn't deny that the blatant injustice angered him.

Alas, there was little that could be done. Much like what the Director had said earlier, what they did was technically legal. Unethical and immoral? Sure. But perfectly legal.

''I see...'' Aru trailed off, visibly bothered by the information.

Ayane just smiled slightly and returned back to her tablet, flicking through weather reports and news websites with methodical efficiency. Sensei on the other hand glanced up at the clock, noting it was now ticking over to seven at night – too early for bed, but the girls had been doing a lot of work as of late and so had he. Sleep came easily, especially since they woke early to make use of as much daylight as possible.

''I think tomorrow we should investigate Abydos.'' Aru suddenly spoke, drawing a surprised gaze from him. ''A-All of us, I mean. That way we can cover the most ground possible, right?''

''Hm...'' He paused to consider, scratching his chin. ''You've got a point there. Abydos has a lot of desert, and it'd probably be best to bring everyone rather than divide our forces. Especially if Elysium's other bases are going to be as well-defended as the one in Millennium was.''

''Why the heck was it anyway?'' Hoshino yawned from her position on Nonomi's lap, dozing after dinner. ''Think they saw us coming?''

''Perhaps.'' Sensei didn't rule the possibility out. ''It could be because of their base being in Millennium; it made sense to implement androids for defence, and they would have an easier time shipping them there with how prevalent they are in Millennium's districts. On the other hand, it could also be because Elysium has caught wind of our raids and are actively reinforcing their current defences.''

''Either way we'll have to be cautious.'' Nonomi added her two cents.

''Right.'' Sensei nodded, then again more firmly. ''Ayane, mind looking up some camping gear? We can swing by the store in the morning and grab them on the way to the station to save time.''

''We already have some at the school.'' Ayane said lightly. ''We could use those? They're still in good condition and there's enough for all of us, presuming we share.''

''That can work. I'll go inform Rin – Aru, can you help carry these documents? We'll just stuff them in my room for now.''

''A-Ah, yes!''

The evening continued with some more small talk before everyone eventually retired to bed – Aru sharing a room with Sensei to make sure he stayed safe – and come the morning, all would be refreshed and ready.

For in Abydos, the heat was not the only thing they had to worry about – of that, they were sure.

[END]

A/N: Aru saves the day~ For once~

See you all in Chapter 15: Abydos~