Pre Author's Notes:
Kept you waiting, huh? Yeah, sorry, nothing I can really say except that life gets busy, and as much as I enjoy writing, life is kind of more important. That being said, I've been working on and off this chapter for quite awhile now, and I think it came out pretty good.
Gate: In the Company of Shadows
Chapter 22
Deathwish Diplomacy
KOJI SUGAWARA - THIRD RECON JSDF
IMPERIAL GARDENS, FALMART
IMPERIAL CALENDAR 687 - 11:00:00
Koji Sugawara, a bureaucrat for Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, knew all about handling political matters. He knew that there were two ways to go about them. The first, being through diplomacy, and the second, being through force. Though he was no stranger to the latter, he was definitely much more experienced in the former. He had dedicated a decent portion of his life to studying his country's foreign policy and international relations just to become a civil servant. He had shaken hands with other like-minded foreign affairs ministers and attended countless summit meetings.
It's what his studies had prepared him for.
What they didn't prepare him for, was a mysterious dimensional portal suddenly appearing in the Ginza district, before what could only be described as an alternate version of an ancient Roman army from a fantasy world came through and started slaughtering innocent Japanese citizens in the streets.
Thankfully, the Japanese Self-Defense Force mobilized quickly to counter the threat and protect its citizens. The military employed its expertise in combat and defense strategies, adapting them to confront a fantastical enemy with unknown abilities. The equipment, though slightly outdated compared to the other nations, was more than enough to effectively neutralize most of the invaders, coercing many of them to surrender. The survivors that were left anyway...
Once the action and confusion had died down though, he realized that he had a new problem on his hands.
He'd have to be the one to act as the main diplomat to the people of this new world…
It's precisely why he was dressed in ancient robes, standing behind the railing of a gazebo on the water, with Princess Pina Co Lada, leader of the Rose-Order of Knights, standing by his side. He couldn't help but feel out of place. The ancient robes he wore were a stark contrast to his usual attire as a modern diplomat - that being a finely pressed and tailored suit and tie.
Indeed, Koji Sugawara found himself in a completely unfamiliar situation. To say he was out of his element would be an understatement. He was working closely with the JSDF Third Deep Recon and Surveillance team, led by the 'Hero of Ginza', First Lieutenant Yoji Itami, to ensure that terms of peace were established between Japan and the Saderan Empire.
The same Empire that Japan was still currently at war with…
Sugawara slightly shifted his shoulder, adjusting the toga draped over him as he took a deep breath, reminding himself of his extensive knowledge in diplomacy and his experience in handling political matters. While this may be an extraordinary circumstance, he knew that the principles of diplomacy still applied. Building bridges, fostering understanding, and finding common ground were key to resolving conflicts, even in this fantastical context.
"I have to say, I'm impressed with your idea and its execution," Pina spoke up beside him. "You've hosted a splendid affair, inviting the entire family and the whole of the tribe as well. Quite generous of you if I do say so myself. Perhaps I should start hosting similar events for my band of knights as well."
He glanced at her, noticing as her rose red eyes surveyed the scene in front of them. Located on the outskirts of the Imperial Capital, the Imperial Gardens, lush with vibrant flora and meticulously manicured landscapes, provided a serene backdrop to their conversation. A diverse crowd of noble relatives of the senators and the relative's relatives could be seen enjoying each other's company, relaxing as they stood side by side in clusters, engaging in friendly discussions.
The atmosphere was peaceful, despite the faint, looming dread of a devastating war for the Empire on the horizon.
"Ah, this is nothing," he responded, waving off her praise as he awkwardly rubbed the back of his neck. "Besides, you can thank the head maid from Italica for lending some of her servant staff to us. Without her, this little get together probably wouldn't be so… well, put together."
"Oh, Kaine?" Pina asked, tilting her head slightly as she recalled the name from memory. "Did you ask her for them?"
"At first, not directly. It was brought up in passing at the local tavern at Alnus. One of the demi-human girls, who was apparently sent by the Formal Clan, had overheard, and offered to pass the word along to Kaine. Eventually, I got a meeting with her and the Count, and here we are now."
"Hm, yes. The Count definitely has no shortage of exotic demi-human women at his disposal," Pina commented, letting out a slightly exasperated sigh as she swirled the wine in her cup. Although a moment later, a tiny hint of an amused smirk could be seen tugging at the corner of her lips for some reason.
Sugawara had a feeling he knew why, but chose not to comment on it.
"Right… Anyways, speaking of demi-human women, I couldn't help but notice that the only maids sent to us have been human." Sugawara glanced back at the party, eyeing the servants that roamed around. Kaine could be seen slapping the hand of one of the maids, giving the servant a stern and disapproving look, chastising the girl after having caught her attempting to sneakily reach for some of the food on one of the serving platters. "Not exactly the make-up I remember back in the Formal estate."
Princess Pina kept a straight face at Sugawara's observation. "You have quite the keen eye, Sir Sugawara. Indeed, the maids provided are all human, and though that in and of itself isn't quite so strange, it is rather unusual for the Formal Clan. The count is known for his preference for exotic demi-human women, as you mentioned earlier. But, the Count's reasoning for selecting human maids for this particular occasion aren't unfounded."
Sugawara raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "And that specific reasoning is…?"
"A precautionary measure in regards to cultural sensitivity," Pina responded, before taking a sip of her wine. "Demi-humans and humans 'coexist' in the Empire, but most humans, especially Imperial nobles, see their counterparts as inferior and beneath them, save for some people like Count Formal. By sending human maids instead of demi-human ones, the Count is likely trying to avoid causing any unintentional offense. That, and making sure that the demi-human side of his staff are treated fairly."
Sugawara nodded, understanding the rationale behind the decision. "I see. It's a wise choice, considering the delicate situation we find ourselves in. We wouldn't want any misunderstandings to escalate tensions further."
"Yes, misunderstandings and escalations…" Pina's gaze turned contemplative, and she leaned against the railing of the gazebo, looking down at her reflection in the sparkling, crystal clear water.
Sugawara noticed the change in Pina's demeanor and approached her with a gentle smile. "Is everything alright, Princess?"
She sighed softly, her gaze still fixed on the water. "I'd like to think so, Sir Sugawara, but I can't help but let my mind wander to the possible consequences of the Empire's actions. We're technically still at war with each other, and the lives of countless people hang in the balance, depending entirely on these negotiations going through. It weighs heavily on my heart."
Sugawara placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "I understand your concerns, Princess. The path we are on is undoubtedly challenging, but we must remember why we're both here. We are here to find a way to peace, to bridge the gap between our nations and prevent further bloodshed. It won't be easy, but we must persevere. For the good of both of our worlds."
Pina looked up at him, offering him a gentle smile, although her eyes were still filled with a bit of apprehension. "You have quite a way with words, don't you, Sir Sugawara? I can see now why you're a diplomat."
Sugawara chuckled softly. "Please, Princess. Words are just that… words, meant to build up trust and foster a sense of cooperation. They're one half of diplomacy. The other half is action, and as the saying goes, actions speak louder than words. It's through our actions that we can truly make a difference in forging a path to our desired lasting peace. It's crucial we show the people of both our worlds that we are committed to reconciling, so that we can coexist together harmoniously, in a new golden age of prosperity."
Princess Pina raised a brow up at him from behind her cup of wine. "And you've just proven my previous observation correct. You sound as if you're trying to sell me on something at the market."
"Is it working?" He asked with a small smirk.
"Well I am standing beside you right now, am I not?"
At that, the two shared a lighthearted laugh. Sugawara glanced around the Imperial Gardens, observing the guests mingling and engaging in conversations, their voices carrying snippets of laughter and animated discussions. The scene provided a momentary distraction from the weight of their mission.
"That being said, when I initially met you, I couldn't have imagined that a diplomat from another world would play such a significant role in our affairs, especially after what Japan has done to the Empire in retaliation. But I must admit, your conviction eases my concerns just a bit. It's a refreshing perspective amidst the echo chamber of warmongering hawks calling for this fruitless war to continue."
Sugawara's smile widened, and he felt a tinge of pride at Pina's words. "Thank you for your kind words, Princess Pina, but please, at least give yourself some credit. Remember, this is a joint effort. We're partners in this endeavor, and I rely on your insights and knowledge of your world to help guide me. I'm still just an outsider here after all."
The princess straightened her back and allowed her expression to shift from an easy smile to something more akin to a disappointed frown. For a moment, he believed he had said something wrong to have offended her. At least, that's what he thought at first. It wasn't until the next words that came out of her mouth that he understood the sudden shift.
"Yes, you are indeed an outsider… and I've had no shortage in dealing with plenty of them."
Sugawara's brows furrowed slightly as he processed Pina's remark. It didn't take a genius to know what she was referring to. He was one of the first to be made acutely aware of Shadow Company after the unexpected appearance of some of their contractors at his private meeting with the princess. Then, everyone else was made aware of their presence in the Special Region, right after the company's CEO and commander, Phillip Graves, had so brazenly challenged the rest of his world live on national television at the Diet meeting.
That's when he knew his job was only going to get more complicated from then on…
Unlike other countries or nations that he could study and research, he was just as clueless as the rest of the world was as to the true nature of Shadow Company. All he knew about them was what everyone else already knew.
Shadow Company was a covert, tier one, private military company, made up of professional ex-special operations veterans; they specialized in providing environment security, asset recovery, client protection, and rapid interdiction services; and they were equipped with top of the line and cutting edge next generation equipment to field test, like drones - apparently supplied by reputable defense engineering and manufacturing companies - allowing for real time threat assessment and analysis through surveillance to gain an asymmetric edge over their adversaries.
And that was it… that was the entire extent of his knowledge.
A basic and unrevealing summary of the company through the 'about', 'services', and 'capabilities' tabs from their website - all nothing but worthless business and marketing speak. There was absolutely nothing further that they could dig up from the rest of the website. Not even anything about the company's obscure history or its equally enigmatic leader. They were simply just a shadow - pun not intended - content on fading into the background.
He understood what Pina was getting at. Both the JSDF and Shadow Company were outsiders, thrust into a foreign world and tasked with navigating its complexities. However, the implications of her statement suggested something more.
"Princess Pina, please forgive me if I'm mistaken, but it sounds like there's more to your mention of Shadow Company than just a comparison. Is there something I should be aware of?"
Pina took a moment, her gaze shifting towards the crowd of patricians, as if contemplating her words. Eventually, she turned her attention back to Sugawara, her expression even more serious now. "Unfortunately, as you saw back in Japan, I've had the chance to interact with members of Shadow Company ever since their time here in our world. They possess a certain... feel, I guess, that sets them apart."
Sugawara nodded, his curiosity growing. "I see… and how does that relate to our current situation?" He asked, trying to gauge Pina's intentions.
Pina looked at him intently, her eyes searching his face for a moment, before she took a deep breath. "Forgive me for being blunt, Sir Sugawara, but this 'war' has brought significant losses on the Empire's side. A good portion of the senate are starting to favor the anti-war sentiment. They want to restrict the power of the Emperor who started this reckless conflict by taking command of the army away from him, and forming a militia controlled by the senate instead. It's obvious to those who are smart enough that the outcome of this skirmish, should it continue, will lead to nothing but the downfall of the Empire, and they only want peace now."
She looked down at the wine in her cup, swirling the liquid inside once more.
"Japan is providing that opportunity for peace… But what about Shadow Company? What's their role in all this? The existence of a secretive military, the way they handle things, and their continued presence here, can't help but make many wonder about Japan's true intentions."
Sugawara understood her concern now. Shadow Company's secrecy concerning their operations in the Special Region had left many people suspicious of their motives, but it was clear that they had neo-colonial objectives of some sort that involved profiting off the new land.
Although it would be a bit hypocritical for him to point out such a thing…
The only thing that the people of the Special Region knew was that the JSDF and Shadow Company were both mysterious and mighty military powers. They both came from a modern world, using similar gear, equipment, military tactics, and modern technology; it made it somewhat difficult for the people of the Special Region to distinguish between the two groups, despite the clear difference in uniforms.
Sugawara knew that trust was a fragile commodity in diplomacy, and their loose 'association' with such a covert group could be seen as a red flag. It wouldn't be long before an incident ended up lumping them together in some sort of major scandal.
"I understand your apprehension, Princess," Sugawara replied, his voice calm and earnest as he chose his words carefully. "The presence of Shadow Company does raise questions, and I assure you, it is a matter of concern for us as well. But unfortunately, their presence in the Special Region isn't up to us. The JSDF's mandate is to protect Japan and its citizens from any threats. I'd like to remind you that Shadow Company is an entirely different entity that operates independently, not just from the Japanese government and the JSDF, but also our own world. Even we have limited knowledge of their true intentions and objectives."
Pina listened attentively, her expression still guarded, but slightly more open. Sugawara's words seemed to resonate with her, but she remained cautious.
"I appreciate your reassurance, Sir Sugawara," she responded, her voice measured. "However, the fact remains that their presence has created uncertainty among many of our people. They are seen as another, less friendly invader, whether intentional or not. And in the current state of affairs, where tensions are high and trust is fragile, perception matters."
Sugawara's gaze softened slightly as he studied the princess. He understood her words, but there was really nothing else he could do to act on them. He had already brought up his concerns about Shadow Company with Taro Kano, the Japanese Minister of Defense and the Minister for Problem Measures of the Special Region. Still busy with dealing with the fiasco that was the Hakone incident, the man seemed to be dodging his questions at every opportunity. Sugawara only relented after Kano promised to bring it up to the Prime Minister the next time the cabinet gathered to meet.
"Trust me, don't worry too much about Shadow Company."
As much as Sugawara didn't like how vague and cryptic the response was, it was the only thing he had to rely on. It seemed as if the politician was shaking hands behind the scenes in order to get things done. Typical, but not entirely unexpected. Though he was somewhat glad that it was Kano dealing with Shadow Company instead of him. The diplomat couldn't imagine sitting face to face with Phillip Graves, locked in a room and surrounded by professional killers.
As Sugawara continued to contemplate the situation, Princess Pina's voice brought him back to the present. "Never mind, forget I said anything about them," she sighed. "I understand that your hands may be tied when it comes to them."
"Trust me, don't worry too much about Shadow Company," he said, rehashing Kano's words as they echoed within his mind. It wasn't the answer he wanted to give, but it would have to suffice for now. Hopefully it would be satisfactory enough for her.
Judging by the pensive expression on her face, it didn't really seem to work.
"I suppose I'll have to take your word for it, Sir Sugawara," she replied, a touch of resignation in her voice as her gaze shifted back to the gardens. "There are enough challenges we face without adding more complications."
Suddenly, the small pitter patter of feet against the stone bridge could be heard behind them, causing the pair to turn around. What greeted them was the sight of a very short girl, likely no older than twelve or thirteen, running towards them. She wore a simple yet elegant pink and white dress adorned with red highlights; a clear symbol of her status. Her light brown hair was tied up into twin tails, bouncing with every step, and her vibrant brown eyes were locked onto him.
"Sir Sugawara!" the girl exclaimed breathlessly as she came to a stop in front of them. Her cheeks flushed with exertion, while she had an upset expression on her face.
Pina and Sugawara exchanged curious glances, intrigued by the girl's urgency. "Young Tyueli?" Princess Pina asked. "Is everything alright?"
The girl took a moment to catch her breath, before suddenly moving forward and daringly clinging onto the diplomat's arm, completely ignoring Princess Pina. She looked up at him with pleading eyes
To say Sugawara was taken aback by the girl's boldness was an understatement. The most physical interaction that he had done throughout his career was professional handshakes with other adults.
He wasn't at all expecting to have a little girl suddenly clinging onto his arm.
It was kind of awkward, but he didn't just immediately shake her off. He wouldn't exactly be a good diplomat if he didn't know how to handle situations like this. But he had been in the presence of powerful political figures before. Dealing with young children should be an easy cake walk.
Sugawara gently disentangled his arm from her grasp and crouched down to her level, maintaining a calm demeanor. "Easy now," he said softly, his voice soothing. "What seems to be the matter? What's got you so upset, miss...?"
"Sherry, Sherry Tyueli," she offered, giving a small curtsy alongside the introduction. "And it's my stupid cousin! She won't stop bragging about her stupid jewelry and showing it off!" She complained, her voice carrying an obvious tone of frustration as she stamped her foot on the ground. "Great, so she has a pearl necklace, but who cares? It's so annoying, annoying, annoying, and it's making it quite difficult to enjoy your party!"
So that's what this is about? Simple jealousy? He thought to himself. Of course it is! What else would it be?
Sugawara couldn't help but crack a small smile at the girl's outburst, finding her honesty refreshing amidst the setting of the party. Children, so naive and... well, childish. He somewhat envied them. To be young and innocent, not having to worry about the responsibilities that came with adult life.
He patted her on the head gently, trying to alleviate her frustration. "Oh I understand how you feel, Sherry," he said sympathetically. "It can be quite bothersome when someone constantly brags about their possessions. But everyone is different, and sometimes, people will use their belongings to gain attention or feel important. It doesn't diminish who you are or what you have to offer."
The girl looked up at him, her expression softening slightly as she considered his words. "But it's still annoying," she muttered, crossing her arms and pouting.
Sugawara chuckled softly. "Well, I won't deny that, but instead of letting it ruin your enjoyment of the party, why not focus on the other things that could make you happy? Maybe there's a game you can play or a treat you can indulge in. Have you tried the ice cream that the maids are serving? I promise, it's the sweetest thing you'll ever taste."
Sherry's pout slowly transformed into a curious expression as she considered Sugawara's suggestion. "Ice cream?" she asked, her eyes lighting up with interest as she tilted her head in confusion.
Sugawara nodded with a playful smile. "Oh yes, ice cream. It's a special treat that comes from Japan. Trust me, it's worth trying."
"Hmmm, okay…"
"Sherry!" A voice called out from nearby.
The trio turned their heads towards the voice to see a young man and woman, likely in their late twenties, briskly walking towards them. The pair held a similar resemblance to Sherry, with the man having the same hair color, and the woman, the same eye color, indicating that they were related somehow; they were most likely her parents. They both wore a worried expression on their faces, and seemed slightly out of breath, as if they had been constantly on the move.
The woman approached them, giving a polite - if strained - smile on her face, before eyeing the young girl with a disapproving look. "Sherry, there you are! We've been looking all over for you," she said, gently chastising her daughter. A moment later, she turned to Sugawara and the princess, before offering a slight bow. "Your Highness Pina, Sir Sugawara, I apologize, please forgive the discourteousness of my daughter. I hope she hasn't troubled either of you too much."
Sugawara stood up from his crouched position and returned the bow with a polite smile. "Not at all. Sherry simply needed someone to listen to her. We were just discussing ways to make the party more enjoyable for her."
Sherry's mother sighed, a mix of relief and mild frustration evident on her face. "Thank you for understanding. Behind her seemingly innocent demeanor, Sherry has a strong personality, and sometimes she can be quite... vocal about her feelings."
Princess Pina stepped forward, her expression nostalgic. "It's quite alright. Why, I remember being just like her myself back when I was younger."
Mrs. Tyueli's gaze softened as she looked at Sherry, who was now standing beside her, her previous frustration replaced by a mixture of curiosity and shyness. "Sherry, I don't believe this! You should know better than to run off like that! Now leave the other adults alone, it's time to rejoin the rest of the party."
Sherry glanced at Sugawara, and then back at her mother. "Okay, mother," she said reluctantly, realizing that her momentary disappearance had caused some worry. "...Can we get some ice cream?"
"Ice cream, huh?" Sherry's father looked down at her, a hint of amusement in his eyes. "I thought you were too distracted by your cousin for such a thing?" He asked, before looking back up and eyeing the maid manning the serving cart. "Well, I suppose we can indulge in a little treat before rejoining the rest of the party. What do you say, dear?"
"You're just saying that because you want seconds," Sherry's mother sighed, but there was a new softness detected in her voice. "Alright you two, fine… let's go get some ice cream."
With that, Sugawara stepped back, silently watching on as he allowed the Tyueli family to continue on their way back towards the gathering of other guests.
"So, Princess…" he began. "You've introduced me to a lot of guests here, all except for that family. Any idea who they are?"
Princess Pina, who had been silently observing the interaction, glanced at Sugawara with a small smile. "That was the Tyueli family. They have a close relationship with Marquis Casel."
Marquis Casel? The same Marquis Casel that was the leader of the Imperial senate, and by extension, all of Imperial politics? To the Japanese government, that meant that they needed channels to such a key player at any cost. Naturally, the diplomat in Sugawara came out immediately after such information was revealed.
"Ah, hold on! Please, wait a moment!" Sugawara suddenly called out, gaining the attention of the departing family. They turned back towards Sugawara, their expressions curious and slightly puzzled as he approached them with a respectful bow. "I'd like a word with your daughter, if that's no trouble at all."
The two parents glanced at each other, before Sherry's mother gently pushed her forward. "No, it's no trouble at all."
Sherry's parents stepped back slightly, allowing Sugawara to have a conversation with their daughter. The young girl looked back up at Sugawara with a mixture of curiosity and apprehension.
Sugawara smiled warmly at Sherry as he crouched down to her level once more. "Milady Sherry, I just wanted to let you know that I found your openness quite refreshing today. It takes courage to express your feelings the way you did in a setting such as this, and I admire that."
Sherry blinked up at him, slightly surprised by the refined man's words. "You really think so?" she asked.
"I know so," he said, gently resting a hand on her shoulder. "And as for your cousin? Well, could you imagine the look on her face if she were to see you decorated with your own, beautiful, Japanese pearl necklace? She would be most jealous, wouldn't she?"
Sherry's eyes widened at Sugawara's suggestion, a hint of excitement crossing her face. "You mean… I could have my own pearl necklace? Like the one she has?!"
Sugawara nodded, his smile widening. "Absolutely, Sherry. In fact, I daresay that the pearls from Japan would be much more exquisite than the ones she has currently. I can send you a necklace that suits your style and personality. They'd be a unique piece, one that symbolizes elegance and grace, a reflection of your own beauty and individuality."
Sherry's parents exchanged glances, clearly noticing the man's honeyed words, but still intrigued by his offer. Sherry herself seemed to be caught in a whirlwind of possibilities, her eyes shining with anticipation.
"Sir Sugawara," Sherry's father spoke up, a hint of curiosity in his voice. "Are you suggesting that you could acquire a pearl necklace for our daughter?"
"Indeed, Mr. Tyueli. As a diplomat representing Japan, I have connections to artisans and craftsmen who specialize in creating exquisite jewelry. I can ensure that Sherry receives a pearl necklace of the highest quality, one that will truly be her own."
Sherry's mother looked at Sugawara, her gaze softening. "We appreciate your offer, Sir Sugawara. It's a generous gesture, and I'm sure it would mean a lot to our daughter. However, we wouldn't want to impose on you or your responsibilities as a diplomat."
"Nonsense," Sugawara said, politely shaking his head. "Please, consider it my personal commitment to fostering stronger relationships between our nations. It would be an honor for me to assist in such a meaningful way."
Sherry's parents exchanged glances once more, silently communicating their thoughts. They weren't stupid. It was clear from the diplomat's words that the generous offer was meant to 'get his foot in the door', so to speak. Most likely so that he could reach Marquis Casel through them…
"In that case, we accept your generous offer, Sir Sugawara."
And like usual, it seems to have worked, judging by the wide smile playing on the lips of Sherry's father. If a soldier's main weapon was their rifle, then a diplomat's main weapon was their gifts.
Sugawara bowed respectfully, gratitude evident in his eyes. "Thank you for the opportunity, Mr. Tyueli. I will make arrangements to ensure Sherry receives a pearl necklace that she can cherish. I hope this will not only be a cultural exchange between us, but also, a symbol of friendship."
At that moment, Sherry could be seen beaming with barely restrained excitement, her eyes shimmering with anticipation. It appeared that the idea of owning her own pearl necklace, one that would outrival her cousin's, filled her with a newfound sense of pride and joy that caused her to forget all about her earlier soured mood. The girl gave one last curtsy towards him, before rushing off to rejoin the party with her family.
As he watched them walk away, Sugawara couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment and anticipation. The potential opportunity to establish connections with Marquis Casel would have far-reaching implications for diplomatic relations between Japan and the Saderan Empire.
"You truly are a dedicated diplomat, aren't you, Sir Sugawara?" Princess Pina approached him once more, giving him a smirk of mild amusement as she handed him his cup. "Always on the lookout for new connections and seizing opportunities. I have no doubt that your efforts will be instrumental in forging stronger ties between our worlds."
"Eh, I'm just doing my duty, Princess." He said, before raising the cup to his lips and taking a sip.
Pina turned back to observe the lively atmosphere of the party, her gaze thoughtful as she scanned the crowds. "So… I take it that you wish to court the Tyueli family's daughter?"
Sugawara's eyes widened as the wine he had just sipped suddenly went down the wrong way, causing him to briefly cough and sputter. After the rather embarrassing coughing fit, he took a moment to compose himself, his face flushed slightly as he cleared his throat before responding to Pina's question.
"Princess... I must clarify that my intentions are purely professional," Sugawara replied, his voice slightly strained from the coughing. "My priority is to focus on fostering diplomatic relations and strengthening the ties between our nations. Any personal interest would be secondary to my duties. Not that there is any in the first place."
"Why not? You've clearly gotten into their good graces with the gift offering, and I'm fairly certain that you've gotten little Sherry's attention now as well."
Sugawara turned back towards the party, spotting the girl in front of the serving cart with a cup of ice cream. Judging by the spoon hanging in her mouth and the giddy expression on her face, she had enjoyed the frozen dessert. Her attention seemed fully captivated by the sweet treat, at least until she sensed that someone was looking at her, and she turned her gaze to meet Sugawara's. He chuckled softly, offering her a warm smile of acknowledgement as she smiled back and waved, before returning his attention to Pina.
Yes, he did indeed have the girl's attention. But it was in a wholesome way, damnit! How the princess saw it as anything else was beyond baffling. Was it just one of those things where women silently understood each other?
"Sherry is a delightful young girl, and I'm glad to have made her happy with the promise of a pearl necklace. That being said, she's not really the right one for me."
"Oh? Then what is the 'right one' for you, Sir Sugawara?"
"Older and legal, most likely around my age?" He suggested, glancing awkwardly to the side as he let out a small cough. "Listen, I get that this world is not quite as 'up-to-date' as mine, even going so far as to continue the old tradition of arranged marriages between different families, but we've got laws in place for these sorts of things."
"Well then you should do your best to convey the relationship as nothing more than platonic the next time you meet with the Tyueli family. Though I do wonder how little Sherry will feel about having her heart broken?"
Sugawara couldn't hide his expression of cringe at her words.
"Look, young boys and girls always get strange adult crushes. If she has one forming for me, which I'm fairly certain she doesn't, then she'll eventually grow out of it. Besides, even if she doesn't, I'm certain that there won't be any sort of extraneous circumstances that would call for us to be betrothed to one another. And if it ever gets to that point, then maybe we can contract Shadow Company to do something about that situation…" he joked dryly, although the thought wasn't as amusing as he had wanted it to be. "But that's an entirely different can of worms that I'd rather not open anytime soon…"
Princess Pina briefly raised an eyebrow at the foreign turn of phrase. A moment later, she shook her head, her look of confusion replaced instead with mischief twinkling in her eyes as she giggled softly behind a hand. "Oh, come now, Sir Sugawara. I'm merely jesting with you. I understand your dedication to your role and the importance of maintaining professional boundaries in such a line of work. Though I'm afraid you'll have to forgive me for the bit of teasing at your expense."
Sugawara chuckled, a mix of relief and embarrassment. "There's nothing to forgive, Princess. It was just an unexpected turn of conversation stemming from a difference in cultures, that's all."
With their conversation coming to a close, Sugawara and the princess returned their attention to the lively party.
"Well, I don't think any more new guests should be showing up at this point," Pina said, eyeing everyone in attendance. "Why don't we head back to the garden and join everyone else, see if everything is going swimmingly?"
Sugawara nodded in agreement. "Certainly, Princess."
The two of them made their way down the bridge and through the garden, exchanging greetings and pleasantries with the attendees that noticed them. The soft music playing in the background created a serene atmosphere, while people engaged in friendly conversations, laughing, and enjoying the various refreshments and entertainment provided. Perfect for him to insert himself and mingle with the others.
As they neared the center of the garden, Sugawara noticed as Pina suddenly sniffed the air, her expression turning curious.
"Oh my… do you smell that, Sir Sugawara?" she asked, her voice laced with intrigue. "It seems like there's something delicious being prepared."
Following her lead, Sugawara also took a deep breath, trying to identify the source of the tantalizing scent that wafted through the air. What his nose led him to was a large white canopy spread over one corner of the garden. Below it, master chefs were barbecuing various meats over grills, making use of high quality spices. The smell alone was enough to make even him drool, and he was used to it, being such a high standing figure that attended fancy dinners all the time.
"Ah, that would be the A5 rated wagyu beef, imported directly from Japan. It's known for its exquisite marbling and melt-in-your-mouth texture." Sugawara replied, before eyeing the rest of the party attendees, who were also flocking closer at the smell. "It also appears that we're not the only ones interested in it."
As they approached the canopy, Sugawara and Pina joined the growing crowd, the latter eagerly awaiting her turn to sample the succulent meats. The chefs skillfully grilled the marbled cuts, coaxing out the rich flavors and rendering the meat tender and juicy.
"I don't recognize this new master chef behind the grill cooking the beef, so I'm assuming they're Japanese… Any idea who it is?"
"That would be Hitoshi Furuta, a member of Itami's Third Recon Team," Sugawara informed her. "I questioned him about his presence here at the party earlier, but apparently, he was working at a first class restaurant back in Japan, before enlisting with the JSDF."
"I could tell. This food smells leagues better than any scent I have ever come across, even when compared to the fancy kitchens of rich patricians…" Pina trailed off, her gaze sweeping over the crowd of attendees with a thoughtful look. "Speaking of Sir Itami, where is he anyway? I haven't seen him mingling amongst the crowd here at all."
"Last I recall, Lieutenant Itami mentioned that one of his objectives was to showcase the capabilities of modern technology to the noble senators. I believe he's overseeing the demonstration and ensuring everything runs smoothly."
"Is that so?" Pina asked, her eyes gleaming with curiosity. "I'd like to witness this demonstration for myself. You don't mind taking me to Itami and the senators, do you?"
"Not at all. Just follow me, Princess."
YOJI ITAMI - THIRD RECON JSDF
IMPERIAL GARDENS, FALMART
IMPERIAL CALENDAR 687 - 11:20:00
First Lieutenant Yoji Itami couldn't help but let out a small yawn as he stood by, arms professionally folded behind his back and his posture straight while he supervised the demonstration currently underway. As an expeditionary recon team, their main expertise was in gathering intelligence and conducting reconnaissance missions in potentially hazardous environments. Such opportunities were starting to become more infrequent, and Itami found that they weren't really going on many new expeditions or doing much recon. But unlike a certain boisterous Sergeant First Class of his, he certainly wouldn't complain about the lack of action. It allowed for his mind to briefly wander, and he couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment with the relative calmness of their current situation.
The demonstration that he was supervising involved some of his subordinates showcasing their proficiency in using modern day military equipment, and their target audience at the garden party were the guests.
More specifically, the senators and the young men who would likely become future senators.
While the Foreign Affairs Bureaucrat attached to his Third Recon Team, Koji Sugawara, worked on representing diplomacy through friendliness, it was Itami's responsibility to represent diplomacy from the other side of the coin.
Through fear...
The situation was quite ironic when he really thought about it; a task like that is something he'd most likely associate with Shadow Company - the ones seemingly always looking for a fight - rather than the JSDF.
Regardless, the JSDF had set up a temporary shooting range for the senators to witness the power of the weaponry that Japan possessed, to help them understand what the Empire would be up against, and to hopefully sway those that were on the fence about Japan to stand behind the JSDF and support them. That was the main reason for organizing this garden party in the first place.
The Empire was still an enemy that posed a threat to Japan's national security, and it was his duty to make sure the less pragmatic senators understood the consequences of underestimating their defense capabilities.
And what better way to do that than by instilling a sense of rational fear and hesitancy?
There were about twelve senators in attendance, along with three members from Princess Pina's Rose-Order of Knights; Grey Co Aldo, Hamilton Uno Ror, and Norma Co Igloo, the last of which he recalled briefly speaking to after having entered Italica with his team. Funny… It felt like forever ago when his convoy first rolled into that city, when in reality, it was probably only a month at most.
The audience was huddled together in a small group, with Pina's knights standing on guard nearby. Seeing that everyone was assembled and ready, Itami stepped forward to address them, causing the hushed whispers to begin settling down. He cleared his throat and began speaking, ensuring his voice was heard clearly to everyone.
"Esteemed senators and honorable thorns of the Rose-Order of Knights, I welcome you to this demonstration of the Japanese Self-Defense Force's capabilities. Today, we stand before you, not only as representatives of our nation's military, but also as guardians of its peace, security, and sovereignty." He paused briefly, allowing his words to carry a sense of significance as he let them sink in. To be truthful, he had no idea what he was really saying, as like usual, he was just making this up on the spot… "How do we ensure the security of our nation? How do we protect our cherished values and uphold the ideals that define Japan? How do we defend our people against those who threaten our peaceful way of life? These are all questions that are at the heart of our mission, guiding our actions as service members of the JSDF; today, we offer you a glimpse into the answers."
After his words, Itami turned his head to Kuribayashi, before giving her a quick nod. The sergeant, clearly getting his message, stepped forward a moment later, before holding her arms out and showcasing the weapon in her hands. One hand rested under the handguard while the other hand rested under the stock, allowing the audience to get a fully unobstructed view of the rifle.
"Senators and knights of the Rose-Order, I present to you one of the primary weapons of the Japanese Self-Defense Force… a gun… or more specifically, the Type 89 assault rifle."
Kuribayashi's voice rang out with confidence as she spoke, introducing the weapon to the audience. Itami watched with a small sense of relief as she took the lead, speaking in his place and allowing the guests to observe its features and design. He silently commended Kuribayashi for her seamless delivery. The emphasize on her professionalism would help separate the JSDF from the image of 'brainless barbarians' that the war hawks in the senate apparently liked to paint them as.
"Manufactured by Howa Machinery, the rifle is made out of forged aluminum, molded thermoset plastics, and durable stamped steel, ensuring that it can withstand the rigors of combat and operate reliably and efficiently in high-pressure situations. For its ammunition, it's chambered in the NATO standard of 5.56 by 45 millimeter, with thirty rounds loaded into every STANAG magazine."
For a better visual demonstration, Kuribayashi pulled the flap of one of her pouches open, before pulling out a mag. She held the mag out, ensuring that the audience saw the bullets resting in their brass casings inside the lightweight aluminum box, a glint of sunlight from above reflecting off the ammunition and adding to its authenticity. A second later, she smoothly inserted the magazine into the rifle, before pulling the bolt back and releasing it, the distinct sound of the weapon chambering a round resonated in the air as she finished demonstrating the user-friendly design. Itami watched with a sense of satisfaction as she flawlessly showcased the weapon's features, ensuring the audience gained a clear understanding of its capabilities.
Then again, she didn't really need to put in much effort, judging by the hyper focused expressions on the senators and knights as they absorbed every detail.
"The rifle possesses the necessary firepower to engage multiple targets effectively, whether that be in close quarters combat or precisely engaging them from a distance; the thirty round mag capacity provides our soldiers with ample ammunition to sustain engagements and maintain battlefield superiority at all times, even when severely outnumbered."
After having delved deep into the details of the weapon in her hands, one of the senator's eventually cleared his throat, before speaking up in a bored tone. "Yes, all of these details do indeed sound very impressive… except for the fact that most of these details aren't making very much sense to any of us…" He trailed off, before crossing his arms and directing an impatient look over to Itami. "Sir Itami, I mean no disrespect, but you said that this was a demonstration, did you not? We still have yet to see this 'assault rifle' in action."
Itami maintained his stoic demeanor as he listened to the senator's skepticism. He really wasn't expecting to be rushed, but he imagined that the senator merely wanted to head back to the main party. Itami couldn't really blame him. He wanted to go back and relax too.
He nodded in acknowledgement of the senator's comment before responding. "Senator, I understand you have your doubts and reservations, and you do indeed raise a valid point. From your words, I believe the saying 'show, don't tell' comes to mind," Itami replied, his tone measured and respectful. "I apologize for the oversight in not immediately showcasing our weapon's capabilities. Please, allow us to rectify that."
Itami turned his attention to Kuribayashi, silently signaling her to proceed with the live fire demonstration. The sergeant understood the cue and confidently stepped toward the firing line, rifle in hand.
"You're having the woman do it?"
In an instant, the sergeant paused mid step as her head whipped back to the senator who had asked the question, shooting him the iciest glare he had ever seen in his life. It was so icy in fact, that Itami swore that the temperature in the vicinity seemed to drop by a few degrees, despite them all being underneath the sun. From the corner of his vision, he could also spot Kurokawa and Pina's knight, Hamilton, narrowing their eyes at the senator. At their reactions, Itami couldn't help but let a small wince briefly appear on his face.
If there was one thing that everyone back at FOB Alnus knew, it was that Shino Kuribayashi was not one to be underestimated or taken lightly. She had proven herself time and time again as ferocious in the field, displaying exceptional skill and dedication to her role. Everyone also knew that she had an infamously short temper, and was quick to anger when someone got on her nerves.
He could trust the other two to maintain their composure and remain professional… But Kuribayashi? Being seen as inferior was one of the few things that absolutely infuriated her, and Itami was aware that her response might not be pleasant. However, he also understood that sexism was an unfortunate byproduct of the time, and the senator's passing question likely stemmed from a traditional and outdated perception of gender roles.
Knowing that he had to handle the situation carefully, Itami quickly stepped forward, intercepting his subordinate before things could escalate.
"Senator, Sergeant Kuribayashi is an experienced and highly skilled member of my team. She has undergone the same extensive training as every other service member of the JSDF, and is more than qualified to demonstrate the capabilities of our weaponry," Itami responded, his voice calm but firm as he spoke in her defense. "I assure you, her gender has no bearing on her expertise or ability to handle the task at hand. Besides, I believe you will find her demonstration to be quite impressive."
Kuribayashi opened her mouth to complain, likely something along the lines of, "I can speak for myself!" or "If he wants it so badly, then let me give this asshole a real demonstration!", but the quick wink Itami sent her way caused any fiery remarks on her tongue to be quenched instantly. Instead, she raised a singular brow up at the lieutenant, before begrudgingly backing down.
Itami was met with a momentary silence, as his words seemed to have caught the senator off guard. The noble man seemed to notice the awkwardness that his inquiry brought, as he shifted uncomfortably under the gaze of the audience, realizing the potential faux pas he had made. Itami meanwhile, maintained a neutral expression, giving the senator a chance to collect himself.
After a moment, the senator cleared his throat and spoke again, his tone more apologetic this time. "I... I apologize if my comment came across as disrespectful. It was not my intention to offend. Please, proceed with the demonstration, Sergeant."
Kuribayashi could only roll her eyes in response as she let out a small huff. Itami discreetly breathed a sigh of relief to himself, thankful that the situation had been defused.
With that near disaster averted, the sergeant resumed positioning herself with a proper stance, maintaining a clear line of sight towards the designated firing range.
Itami's team had taken meticulous measures to ensure safety with their demonstration, with suitable backstops and the team's combat medic, Kurokawa, standing nearby just in case. In order to ensure that any bullets wouldn't go astray, they set their targets up in front of a large grass berm, and the targets in question were cheap pots of fired clay; the standard shields and armor of Imperial foot soldiers; and some anatomically correct ballistic gel dummies, which he had to reassure the senators were not, in fact, the remains of actual human bodies and organs. The senators seemed visibly relieved and slightly fascinated at that, but still kept a wary eye at the targets. Itami couldn't help but find some amusement in how easily they were deceived, but he maintained his stoic expression, projecting an air of professionalism.
He didn't want to laugh in their faces.
Everyone watched as Kuribayashi flicked the safety off and raised the rifle downrange, before taking a deep breath and aiming down the iron sights, exuding an air of unwavering focus as she steadied her aim. Her body's posture was solid, and her gloved hands displayed her confident and firm grip. In one fluid motion, the finger that was resting on the trigger pulled back with a gentle squeeze, and a spray of bullets fired out from the end of her barrel.
The sharp sound of gunfire echoed through the garden, momentarily startling some of the attendees. Each shot was punctuated by an orange muzzle flash and a distinct crack that reverberated through the air as the rifle's recoil kicked back into her shoulder. The full auto mag dump lasted for less than three whole seconds before the rifle ran dry, clicking empty as the bolt locked to the rear.
As the final shot echoed, Kuribayashi released the empty magazine from the rifle, carefully clearing the weapon and ensuring it was safe, before lowering it and allowing the scene to sink in. the sergeant turned back towards the audience, a faint smile tugging at the corner of her lips.
Despite firing in full auto, Kuribayashi maintained excellent accuracy and stability, hitting the targets - or rather, target, in this case - with precision. The ballistic gel dummy that she had singled out was designed to simulate accurate human anatomy, and it had done just that, reacting convincingly as it absorbed the impacts, with the bullets visibly creating cavities and tearing through the gel. Fake blood painted the front of the dummy, squeezing out from the myriad of newly formed bullet holes and dripping down the torso.
Itami watched with satisfaction as the demonstration achieved its intended impact, with many of those in attendance flabbergasted at the level of lethality they had just witnessed from one infantry weapon.
"That was very good, Sergeant. I especially liked the rather tight grouping you displayed…" Itami complimented, giving her a nod of approval as she allowed a satisfied smirk to grace her features. "However, that being said, thirty rounds on one target is just a little bit overkill, don't ya think? Would you care to demonstrate the weapon's precision, preferably on semi-auto, please?"
Her smirk widened into a sadistic grin at Itami's words, clearly more than eager to cut loose. Without a word, she reloaded the rifle with a fresh magazine, this time flicking the fire selector to semi-auto as per Itami's request.
Taking a moment to readjust her stance and focus her gaze, Kuribayashi aimed at the ballistic dummy again, while the audience watched attentively, intrigued by the prospect of witnessing the rifle's accuracy in a more controlled manner.
After a moment, she pulled the trigger once more, sending a single round downrange. The gunshot broke the silence, the sound of the shot resonating through the field, but this time, everyone was prepared for - and expecting - the loud noise. Kuribayashi's aim was on point, as everyone witnessed the dummy's head recoiling back, the bullet striking the forehead with precision, ripping through the gel and wobbling it as the round pierced the synthetic skull.
The sight caused his mind to momentarily drift back to his time before today, where he had witnessed the devastating effects of modern warfare firsthand, of what it could to the human body.
Shattered spears, shields, and armor littered the landscape outside the Alnus gate; pieces of charred bodies were being picked at by carrion birds outside the walls of Italica; and the acrid stench of decay and voided bowels seemingly seeped into the rain and blood-soaked soil of Hakone...
His mind suddenly conjured up an image of the Shadow that stood over the field of bodies, leisurely rolling them over with his boot, before double tapping them and further disfiguring their faces. He repeated the process like many others, who all easily went about such a task like it was just any other day at the office. Suppressed shots rang out, echoing in the cold, damp, and empty forest, before the contractor looked up from his final dead check and stared directly back at him.
Ever since that night, every once in a while, Itami would think back to that one specific moment. That moment where he tried to get a read on the man, but simply couldn't, on account of the dark-tinted ballistic goggles and balaclava masking his features.
Why did he want to do such a thing?
Because for some reason, he wanted to somehow relate to the stranger; to confirm if he was indeed just some regular guy like him, rather than some professional, cold-blooded, contract killer with a body count that went through the roof. Unfortunately, that led him to another worrying thought.
How high was his body count?
Are your hands clean, 'Hero of Ginza'?
Suddenly, Itami felt a wave of unease wash over him, and he found that he didn't really want to relate to the Shadow in any way anymore…
"Itami!"
Hearing his name being called, Itami immediately shook his head, trying to clear the disturbing thoughts that had intruded upon his mind. A moment later, his head snapped in the direction of the voice that had called his name, only to find that it was just Kuribayashi, giving him a worried look as she finally got his attention. Behind her, the ballistic dummy she had shot at now had several newly bleeding holes in its face, while nearby, the clay pots were shattered on their table beside the shields and armor, which showed clear signs of penetration and damage. Seeing that his focus was on the range, she loudly cleared her throat, before purposefully flickering her eyes over to the audience nearby.
The senators and Pina's knights could be seen watching him intently, expectedly waiting for him to continue.
Itami quickly composed himself, realizing that he had momentarily drifted into his own thoughts and became distracted. He forced an apologetic smile and nodded at Kuribayashi, acknowledging her concern. He turned back to the audience and stepping forward once again, capitalizing on the attention he had gained.
"Thank you, Sergeant Kuribayashi, for that impressive demonstration of the rifle's precision," Itami said, easily projecting a mask of confidence and professionalism. "As you can see, the Type 89 assault rifle is not only capable of delivering a high rate of fire, but it also offers exceptional accuracy in its semi-auto mode, thanks to its fire selector switch, which allows for our soldiers to adapt to ever-changing combat scenarios."
He gestured towards the damaged targets, the evidence of Kuribayashi's precise marksmanship.
"Our soldiers are trained to exercise control and engage targets with utmost precision when required, ensuring minimal collateral damage and maximizing effectiveness in every round fired."
"So that's the true power of a gun?" Cicero asked in disbelief, glancing nervously back at what was left of the targets downrange. "Would it be too much to ask for you to teach us how they're made, or for you to sell them to us?"
Upon hearing the senator's request, Itami let a small frown grace his features. "I apologize, but I'm not a manufacturer, and I wouldn't have the slightest clue of where to even begin making a gun myself. As for selling them? Well, Japan has an export ban in place for military hardware outside of the country. Only the JSDF are allowed to be equipped with such gear."
"Only the JSDF, you say?" Pina's knight, Norma, suddenly spoke up, eyeing the weapon hanging from Kuribayashi's sling. "And how many of those in the JSDF are equipped with such armaments?"
Itami paused for a moment, pretending to consider Norma's question. Of course, he didn't have any specific numbers off the top of his head, but acting like he needed to think about being transparent would help to reinforce that they were more than well-equipped as a self-defense force. "Well, it's issued to airborne soldiers, tankers, recon soldiers, and armored infantry soldiers… So I guess just about every service member in the JSDF gets one."
Itami's response sparked a mixture of surprise and intrigue among the audience. The senators and Pina's knights exchanged glances amongst themselves, their curiosity piqued by the widespread distribution of such an advanced weapon - to them at least - within the JSDF.
Marquis Ducie, still fascinated by the rifle's capabilities, voiced his thoughts. "E-Every service member in the JSDF? That's quite a significant deployment…"
"What about the men in black?"
The question caused everyone to turn and look at the man who had posed the question, Grey Co Aldo, Pina's most loyal, veteran knight. Itami raised an eyebrow at the seasoned fighter. "Shadow Company?" he asked, gesturing for him to elaborate further as he sought clarification. "What about them?"
"I couldn't help but notice that despite being a different military, Shadow Company fought alongside the JSDF at the city of Italica, using similarly advanced equipment to effectively defend it. I also couldn't help but notice that they seemed to operate with a higher level of secrecy and specialization compared to your transparency."
Itami wasn't too surprised by the name drop. He was aware that Shadow Company was starting to gain the reputation of being a covert organization, which was true, considering that they had been rather quiet in their operations recently, save for the villa raid they had conducted earlier in the week. Something was clearly happening behind the scenes... but it wasn't his job to pull the curtains back and find out what.
He already had is own suspicions...
"Well it's like you said, Shadow Company is a different military entirely separate from the JSDF - a private military. While I cannot divulge specific details about their equipment, it's safe to assume that they're equipped with state-of-the-art weaponry tailored to their specific operational requirements."
"Is that why the guns and the attachments they carried seemed to vary amongst each of their individual soldiers?"
Itami nodded, acknowledging Grey's astute observation. "Yes, Shadow Company operates with a higher level of autonomy and specialization, allowing their contractors to have more flexibility in personally procuring their individual firearms and attachments. Their operations often require a certain level of adaptability and discretion, which is reflected in the diversity of their equipment. You'll see different scopes, lights, and grips added onto their weaponry-"
"So what you're saying is that their weapons are better than Japan's?"
Itami found himself caught off guard by the bluntness of Grey's question. While he understood Grey's curiosity, the implications of that statement were obvious, and comparing the equipment of a Self-Defense Force to a multinational private military wasn't a straightforward matter. He needed to address the question without undermining their own capabilities.
Truly, this was a delicate situation.
"Uh, the JSDF's equipment is carefully selected and standardized to ensure interoperability, logistical efficiency, and the ability to operate cohesively," Itami said, choosing his words carefully. "Our focus is on maintaining a well-rounded and capable force that can fulfill our defense responsibilities effectively. While Shadow Company may have different equipment and operate under different circumstances, it doesn't necessarily mean their equipment is 'better' or 'worse' than the JSDF's… It's simply a matter of different priorities and operational requirements."
Grey didn't look completely satisfied with the vague answer that he was given, and Cicero spoke up again, following up the knight's previous question with another, even more, blunt question.
"Would they be willing to sell some to us?"
Would the shadowy private military be willing to sell modern firearms to the inhabitants of this fantasy realm that they were at war with? The thought never crossed his mind, on account of how far-fetched and absurd the idea was. But the most worrying thing about it was…
He wasn't entirely sure if they wouldn't…
Sure, Shadow Company was working against the Empire just like the JSDF, but unlike Shadow Company, the JSDF served to protect Japan and its citizens. Meanwhile, the company wasn't tied down by loyalty to a flag, or a country, or any set of ideals. They couldn't care less about Japan, making no effort to hide the fact that they worked for whoever the highest bidder was in the private sector. It wasn't surprising; given their status as a private military, they were obviously driven by profit rather than national defense.
And nothing was more profitable than an escalation of arms.
He couldn't even begin to fathom the major political ramifications if Shadow Company got involved in their talks through such an act…
Geez, talk about complications!
Maintaining his composure, Itami cleared his throat, before addressing the senator with caution. "Senator, I understand the interest in acquiring advanced weaponry, but it's important to consider the broader implications of such a decision. Getting Shadow Company involved in selling weapons to external parties could have severe consequences for everyone. It could endanger many of our people, possibly destabilize the region, and undermine our diplomatic efforts. These are all risks that should be considered very carefully…" he warned with an uncharacteristically hardened tone.
The senators and knights exchanged glances, seemingly deep in thought. It appeared Itami's words were enough to give them pause, causing the group to fall into a contemplative silence as the weight of the discussion settled upon them.
Itami took the moment of silence as his cue to move on, ordering for some of his soldiers to set up new targets downrange. Next on display was the Type 06 rifle grenades, and then after that, the mortars. In Itami's opinion, such armaments were a bit overkill for such a display, but it was most likely so that they could really hammer in the JSDF's power.
After the demonstration was finished, Cicero had noticed that Pina and Sugawara arrived, and were watching them nearby.
"Marquis Ducie, look over there," he spoke up in a hushed whisper, getting his fellow senator's attention. "Remember, Sir Sugawara is an emissary sent by Japan, the same nation that has members of our respective families held prisoner behind the gate."
"Yes, yes, I haven't forgotten," Ducie whispered back, before approaching the two newcomers. "Sir Sugawara, please forgive me, but I feel that I have to ask… why is Japan seeking to sign peace treaties? Surely you understand that if you fight, you'd win any battle against the Empire…"
"Because Japan isn't looking for a fight, Marquis Ducie," Sugawara responded gently. "Our goal is to establish peaceful relations with the people of this world. We believe that dialogue, understanding, and cooperation are the keys to a stable and prosperous future for both our peoples."
Ducie seemed skeptical, his brows furrowing. "But why? Why do you care? Why seek peace when you have the upper hand? It just doesn't make any sense."
Upon hearing the man's skepticism, Sugawara's expression softened. "Marquis Ducie, the people of Japan have witnessed the horrors of war ourselves; we understand the devastating consequences it brings. We have lost loved ones, seen cities in ruins, and experienced the pain and suffering that conflict inflicts on innocent civilians. We do not wish to see the same fate befall the people of this world. We just want a peaceful coexistence."
Pina, who had been listening to the conversation, stepped forward and added her own perspective. "Marquis Ducie, I have come to know the people of Japan and Lieutenant Itami personally. I believe they are honorable and compassionate individuals who genuinely care about the well-being of all. Please, consider their commitment to peace not as a sign of weakness or deception, but of strength and wisdom."
Ducie seemed to ponder their words, a contemplative expression crossing his face. "Well, I suppose… there is some merit in your approach." He said, casually downplaying just how much merit the suggestion actually held.
Meanwhile, Itami breathed a sigh of relief as he watched the interaction unfold nearby. Kuribayashi stepped up beside him, her gaze fixed on the ongoing conversation between the senators, Sugawara, and Pina. She leaned in slightly and whispered to Itami, her voice just audible enough for them alone.
"I'll admit, you surprised me, LT. You did pretty well in addressing their concerns," Kuribayashi said, her tone laced with a hint of pride, surprisingly enough. "Seems like your words resonated with them."
Itami nodded in gratitude as he accepted the praise, a small smile playing at the corners of his lips. "Thanks… I just can't wait until the Princess takes us to that lavish home she mentioned after this party's over."
"Of course that's all you care about…" Kuribayashi responded in an unamused tone. "You do know that we'll have even more work to do once we begin the negotiations, right?"
Itami gave a tired chuckle, knowing that she had a point. "Heh, of course. But for now, I'd rather just enjoy the moment and celebrate the progress we've made so far, rather than worry about the future."
"Yeah…" She trailed off, before giving him a look he hadn't ever seen on her before. At least, one that was ever directed at him. "Speaking of worry… are you okay, sir? What the heck was that back there?"
Itami's smile faded slightly as he met Kuribayashi's concerned gaze. She was most definitely referring to his momentary lapse of focus during the demonstration earlier. He knew that it was too late to hide his unease from her, but despite that, he still hoped to act dumb and play it off somehow.
"What? I have no idea what you mean. I'm fine, Sergeant-"
"No, Itami, you're clearly not." She interrupted, narrowing her eyes at him. "I know everyone sees me as a reckless and short tempered girl, but I'm not stupid-"
"Wha… I never said you were-"
"No, you didn't. But you're defaulting to formal military speech and referring to me by my rank, talking to me as if we've just met. You know I'm not stupid, so don't treat me like I'm stupid." She kept her glare up for a few more seconds, before eventually softening her expression. "It's not like you to space out so badly and leave everyone in awkward silence. Kurokawa knows something's up, I know something's up, and you know something's up. What is it?"
Itami opened his mouth to retort back, but found that he had nothing to refute her words. Realizing that his cool facade was torn down so easily and brutally, he let out a tired sigh, before shutting his mouth. There was no point in putting in so much effort to deflect.
He respected her directness and honesty, even if it sometimes caught him off guard.
"You're right, Kuribayashi. I'm sorry," Itami admitted, his voice tinged with sincerity. He had an apologetic expression on his face as he awkwardly rubbed the back of his neck. "I guess… that moment during the demonstration, some memories and thoughts popped up in my mind. Ones I'd rather not dwell on…"
Kuribayashi continued to study him, her eyes searching for any signs of lingering distress.
"Itami, I'm not sure what's going on in that otaku noggin of yours, but I know it's gotta be stressful being the one in command all the time. Now I know we haven't really known each other for too long, and that our 'relationship' is less than ideal, but… if you ever need someone to talk to, don't hesitate to ask or let me know. The same goes for any of the other members of our team, especially Kurokawa. We've been through quite a bit of shit together, and we've all got your back."
Woah, where the heck did that come from?
Itami found himself shocked, openly gaping at Kuribayashi's unexpected offer of support. He hadn't anticipated such warmth and concern from her, especially considering their previous interactions. She was like a real life tsundere!
In a purely platonic sense of course.
Seeing his expression, she glanced to the side with a tiny blush on her cheeks, showing her rarely seen vulnerable side. "Okay, would you please close your mouth and stop staring at me like that? You're making things weird now…"
Itami snapped out of his daze and closed his mouth, a sheepish expression on his face. "Sorry, sorry. It's just... I didn't expect this from you of all people, Kuribayashi," he placed a hand on her shoulder, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "But know that I appreciate the offer, really. It means a lot to me."
Kuribayashi's blush deepened slightly, but she quickly composed herself as she crossed her arms. "Hm, well don't let it get to your head."
Itami chuckled softly at her attempt to maintain her tough exterior. He knew that deep down she genuinely cared about their team and their well-being, even if she didn't always show it openly.
"Wouldn't dream of it," he replied with a grin. "But seriously, thanks. It's good to know that I have people I can rely on. And the same goes for you too, you know. If you ever need someone to talk to or anything like that, we're here for you too. Not that I think you'll ever really need it."
Kuribayashi's expression softened slightly, a hint of appreciation shining in her eyes. "Yeah, yeah, I'll keep that in mind," she said, her tone slightly less brusque than before. "Now let's get through the rest of today, yeah? Hopefully there'll still be some ice cream for us back at the party."
Their moment of downtime was suddenly interrupted by the sound of Itami's radio coming to life.
"Avenger, this is Archer. Come in, Avenger."
Itami and Kuribayashi glanced at each other, before he reached for the PTT on his radio. "Avenger here, send traffic."
"Sorry to interrupt your fun, but we've just spotted a group of men on horseback about to cross the cordon. They don't appear to be guests, but they're also not bandits, judging by how well dressed they are. Interrogative: how would you like us to handle this?"
"Archer, wait one moment," After Itami finished, he turned back to Pina nearby. "Your Highness, I've just received a report that a group of armed men are approaching the gardens on horseback. Would you happen to know anything about it?"
Pina's expression could be seen shifting to confusion as she furrowed her brows at him. "Um, no… I don't…"
"Crap…" Itami muttered, before speaking into his radio again. "Archer, this is Avenger. Stand down, but continue to monitor our new guests. We'll be packing up and moving our VIPs out of sight before making our way back to the party, how copy?"
"Solid copy, Avenger. Archer, out."
Itami turned back to Sugawara, who had heard the communications himself. Understanding what was happening, the Japanese emissary began ushering Pina back. "Come along, Princess. Let's head back to the main party. We can further discuss the terms for peace after we figure out what's happening."
"Kurata, Higashi!" Itami called out, getting the attention of the team's drivers. "Get those engines running, we need the VIPs out of sight now!"
"Yes, sir!"
"Ugh, damnit. We never get it easy out here, do we?" Kuribayashi loudly complained, moving to unfold the leg of one of the nearby tables. Wanting to speed the process up, Itami also joined in, helping the team pack up more efficiently.
"I'd give a cheeky quip back in response to that, but with you being a military fanatic, I'm sure you already know what I'm gonna say."
"Yeah, yeah… something, something, the only easy day was yesterday," she scoffed out, rolling her eyes as she lifted her side of the table. "I doubt that Shadow Company is dealing with the complicated politics that we're putting up with here."
"Probably better that way. I don't think Japan would like Shadow Company to get anywhere close to their politics." He paused for a moment. "Well, anywhere closer."
Kuribayashi grunted in acknowledgment as they lifted the table into the back of one of the empty vehicles. "Sometimes I wish we had the luxury of being like them. You know, free to focus solely on the mission at hand without all the political hoops to jump through. It would make things a lot simpler."
For a split second, Itami considered the idea… before immediately shaking his head and ridding his mind of that thought. While the idea of a simpler, direct approach of dismantling a government and destabilizing the region did have the appeal of making their jobs much easier, he couldn't find it within himself to justify such a thing, nor could he shake off the feeling that doing so would have been wrong in his eyes. He liked to believe that his moral compass was strong enough to ground him into making the right choices.
At least, he hoped it was…
Author's Notes:
"This, is a weapon of terror. It's made to intimidate the enemy. THIS, is a weapon of war. It's made to kill, the enemy." - Jonathan J. O'Neill, Stargate SG-1.
We get to see some of the JSDF's side of things as they continue their path to seeking a peaceful resolution with the Empire in the Special Region. The garden party happens like in original canon, but this time, the good times are happening with the shadow of the company looming in the background. Outside perspectives, like the JSDF, and even some rather important figureheads of the Empire, also bring up their own concerns with the PMC's presence in the realm. It seems that even when they're not physically present, it's like their presence is still felt… mostly through word of mouth. It's as if they're mysterious boogeymen going out and punishing people in the night.
Which, in a way, is sort of true…