Darling in the Franxx: Alternate Core

Chapter 16: Triangle bomb(s).

The chapter were our bro Goro confessed and got rejected! Obviously, in here I'm going to make some modifications to allow what is essentially called "character development". Ichigo is a great gal and all, but I think that she could use some boosting on her character arc. Also, this will be a great chance to explore the effects of the influence that the SMC mentors are giving to their students for once, some worldbuilding, the debut of the MS of Gundam, and the debut of Squad 13's new mascot! Read and find out what that will be!

Into the show!

At the Cerasus, 1 day after the 2nd trial at night…

Dr. Franxx was seen being hard at work analyzing some data that he had acquired just recently and for a good reason too…

Dr. Franxx: "Papa has been pestering me 24/7 ever since the ark operation for any results about our 'allies' secrets… has he forgotten how delicate these sorts of operations are? One false move and it spells a diplomatic disaster… and after witnessing their combat prowess… I think is best for humanity to avoid more infighting for now…"

A beep was heard as the doctor looked at one of his terminals that displayed the following message: "Deciphering complete."

Dr. Franxx opened the archives and as he read them, he soon smirked with satisfaction: "Fortunately, this information will suffice for now. Thank you for your visit, code 703."

He then downloaded the files and just in time as another beep came from the console indicating that Papa was contacting him again…

Dr. Franxx: "Well, no point in delaying him…"

He opened the comms and soon enough, the pictures of the Seven Sages appeared in his screen…

Papa: - Werner, I hope that today you have a different tale about our 'diplomacy' with our recent allies… -

Dr. Franxx: - You're in luck then… passing you the collected data… -

He did so and explained all the important points that he had discovered during and after his diplomatic trip with the Oletros…

Dr. Franxx: - Unfortunately, I haven't discovered yet their secret source of energy since I couldn't risk provoking a security breach on their system: that secret is heavily safeguarded. The only things we know about it is that it combines Magma and Kojima energy together. –

Marmoset: - A shame, discovering their source and reverse engineering it can finish this war in our favor while reducing severely our losses. –

Tarsier: - I say that we force them to give it up. After all, we are the last true guardians of humanity, and those fools are being led by that traitor of Monkey… -

Gorilla: - Haven't you seen the footages from battle? Infighting between us and the RF will be costly for our side and will give the klaxosaur a big opportunity to attack us. And don't underestimate Monkey, there was a good reason to why he was the only one of us to work on the field rather than up here. –

Marmoset: - A position that in the end allowed him to fall on the lies of the enemy and defect us. And because he knew our tricks very well, that loose end was able to thrive. –

Vice chairman: - Order everyone… yes, the events with Monkey are regrettable and have now come back to bite our plans. But on the other hand, this also presents a big opportunity for our forces. Squad 13's performance has been enhanced exponentially thanks to their mentorship with 'Atlas' squadron, one of their best units in their army. –

Lemur: - What are you suggesting? –

Vice chairman: - I say we extend them a carrot on a stick: the RF seems to still be open to the idea to ally with us as they also seek to defeat the klaxosaurs to defend their Districts and recover more lost land on the planet; such objectives are of the pacifist type, they don't clash with ours, and it is clear that they don't seek what we're after. I propose that we let them support our operations in the future, for every Plantation they rescue is one more Plantation for the final assault. –

Papa: - I see: the carrot being their lifestyle being preserved while the stick being their unconditional support to our forces. A convenient solution for the moment… however, there are some things that require a more personal level of guarantee… *everyone is confused as he then speaks* Werner, what can you tell me about Squad 13's interactions with their mentors? –

Dr. Franxx: - If you're worried that they may get assimilated into their culture, don't worry, the security footage has shown that the mentors are respecting the restrictions. –

Papa: - Good, and what about the two ex-Parasites code 045 and code 703? –

Dr. Franxx: - Those two are one of the mayor pillars for Squad's 13 recent achievements, and so far, haven't done anything that violates the rules. What are you planning for them? –

Papa: - Recent reports state a lot about the battle prowess of those two and their ride "White Glint". I was thinking of asking for a demonstration between them and the 9's once you arrived back to the Garden. –

Dr. Franxx: - Hmmm… an interesting proposal. I will ask them if they're up for it. –

Papa: - Good, and now for the most worrying topic of all: who or what exactly is behind the attacks of your squad and for what reason? –

Dr. Franxx: - I'm afraid that even I and our mentors are on the dark at that one. Captain Orion has theorized that it is very probable that our main enemy has sensed their progress and is trying to stop them before they become too powerful for the assault. As such, she has been sending her personal guards against them… -

Gorilla: - Then that speaks a lot of volumes about your experimental squad doctor. The results are more than satisfactory. Maybe after their mentorship with Squad 13 is over, we can request Atlas squad to train the 9's. –

Papa: - Maybe, but for now, we stick to the plan. Doctor, contact the Garden ASAP to prepare your squad for the final assault and continue your investigations about the secret energy source. Session dismissed. –

But before the doctor logged out, he remembered what Steve had told him and soon said: - Before I leave, can I ask you something Papa? –

Papa sighed but soon said: - Do it quickly. –

Dr. Franxx: - There is a popular event called 'The Alamo Incident' between the SMC forces that states that it was the first and only contact attempt they did towards APE, only to end in disaster for both sides. What exactly happened there? –

Unknown to the doctor, the Council had suddenly tensed up at the mention of the incident before Papa soon answered: - The diplomatic convoy we sent was ambushed by a big pack of klaxosaurs and ended up requesting the SMC forces for aid to help. Unfortunately, none of the two sides survived as they got overwhelmed… -

Dr. Franxx: - Hmm… I see. Well, that was the only question I had. I will be resuming my investigations. Have a good day… -

Once he disconnected however, he showed surprise…

Dr. Franxx: "Steve was right… they have secrets they don't want to share with me… have they been lying to me all this time?"

Unknown to him, the Council was also worried…

Marmoset: - It seems that Monkey is again playing his games to obtain the doctor's support, just like last time. –

Papa: - Indeed, seems he never changed his foolish ways in the end. –

Tarsier: - Should we quarantine the children of Squad 13? They did contact him and is possible they had been "contaminated" by him. –

Papa: - No… the security feed indicates that their interactions were merely political and even if he did, the children would be ignorant of those habits as they had shown loyalty to us repeatedly… -

Tarsier: - But what about the two ex-Parasites? It is known that code 045 was the student of the 'Last Raven'. Don't you think he might be one of them? –

Papa seemed to ponder about this until he said: - No… even if he has their name, it is clear he is as ignorant of his mentor's true status and will remain so. He is not a threat, the line of the 'Ravens' ended with Zorran. –

Everyone seemed to agree until Marmoset then said: - Unfortunately, it seems for every threat neutralized another one takes its place. We had been receiving reports from the Eastern sectors about Plantations and squadrons being destroyed or damaged beyond repair, and not from the klaxosaurs nor our recent acquaintances. –

Papa: - What is it this time? –

Marmoset: - Footage recovered has shown us that it is them again… the Disavowed. –

Gorilla: - Those rebellious criminals again?! How could they have survived on the Steppes of Blue?! –

Tarsier: - I highly suggest we send a punitive expedition against them! Their rampage has already claimed the lives of multiple Parasites and adults in the cities! –

Papa sighed as he analyzed the situation: it seems that no matter their actions, APE's enemies and rivals seemed to be one step ahead of them. But no matter, in the end they will persevere and complete their objective soon enough…

Papa: - Vice. Take care of the situation with the Disavowed, you're allowed to use any resource at your disposal. –

Vice-chairman: - I'll see what I can do. Should I send the 9's or test the waters first? –

Papa: - The latter, they're still needed for a quick maintenance, and I don't want to spend a valuable resource like them if possible. Just make sure they don't interfere anymore… –

He looked at the file reports of the attacks and one of the pictures showed another mecha that was different to those of the SMC. Its design was similar to a cyclops with armored shoulder spikes, the main weapon being what looked like a large magma axe carried with one hand, and the decorations and patterns in the armor indicated that it was possibly the commander… and said commander was looking directly at the camera…

(Ladies and gentlemen, it is official, I included the Zaku II Melee Custom… and alongside it, the start of the apparitions of the MS!)

A week later, at the lake…

This time, his memories took him towards a tree trunk, where he could see himself and the pink-haired child cuddling together for warmth as they sat under the tree while looking around the snowy forest. He then saw as his younger self pulled out a candy and gave it to the girl, who once tasted it started to giggle and shake excitedly, no doubt liking the sweet treat. He couldn't hear what they were talking about but just as the vision started to fade so that he could wake up, he heard one line that he felt so familiar with: "Dah'ling!"

And just like that, Hiro woke up from his nap and calmly sat on the sofa that Sally had provided him for today's therapy session, the nurse scribbling on her notebook before looking at him…

Sally: - So, what did you see this time? –

Hiro: - This one was different for once; I was sitting underneath a tree trunk alongside the girl as both of us cuddled together for warmth. And we didn't look miserable, more like we were enjoying it. Then I pulled out some pieces of candy that I shared with her, and she looked beyond happy once she tasted them… -

Sally: - Hmmh… and then? –

Hiro: - And then I woke up… that's all I remembered… -

Sally: - Well, we can't ask for the whole pie when we still have the slice. That will be all for today's session Hiro. You can go now, your dino girlfriend is waiting for you… -

Zero Two: - *From outside* I told you to not call me that! –

Sally: - Then next time respect our privacy, dino girl! –

Hiro simply chuckled as he exited the tent and soon walked alongside Zero Two back towards the board house, stumbling upon Raven and Naomi, the former carrying a box.

Zero Two: - Hi big bro! Hi Naomi! –

Raven: - Hi lil sis! Hi Hiro! –

Naomi: - Hey! –

They all waved at each other before Zero Two asked: - What are you carrying in that box, brother? –

Raven: - Oh, some old stuff that I had used when I was younger. I just realized that Zorran store them as memoirs rather than throw them away and for that I'm glad. There are so many things in this box that bring me good memories. I was planning to show them to everyone inside. –

The other 3 were now curious about the contents inside the box, and just as they reached the door, they soon heard Futoshi shout: - Everyone! Come to the lounge, the presents are here! –

As they reached the lounge, they saw everyone opening and checking their presents and that was when Naomi said: - Wait, today's Present day? –

Raven: - THAT IS TODAY?! F***! I ALMOST FORGOT! –

He then went out sprinting back towards the forest, leaving behind the box and making everyone look…

Goro: - Did he forgot something? –

Hiro: - It seems like… anyways, what did you get guys? –

As everyone showed their spoils, Naomi saw that the lid of the box was open, so she decided to have a little peak at it. What she saw first was a worn-out plushie of a Chibi raven that looked cute despite being old. She took it out and was inspecting it before Zero Two surprised her…

Zero Two: - What you got there? –

Naomi: - Eeep! Zero Two! –

Zero Two simply smiled before looking at the plushie: - Huh, that's kind of cute. Just like his name… -

Naomi: - Yeah… and it looks like he used it a lot… - "I wonder if…"

That was when the box suddenly shook and out of it came flying a round green drone flapping its 'ears' like wings! (It's H.A.R.O.!) The drone ended up surprising everyone…

Haro: - Haro online! Haro Hello! –

Miku: - What is that?! It looks cute! –

Naomi: - I think I remember… ah right! It is his personal droid helper, H.A.R.O.! –

Haro: - Haro hello! Haro hello! –

The droid went flying around the lobby and then landed on top of Naomi's head.

Naomi: "He is kind of cute…"

Zorome: - Hey, why does Raven have a box? –

Naomi: - Some old stuff he used but no longer needs. Rather than throw it away, he decided to keep them as memoirs. –

Zorome: - Really? That's weird, why keep them if he no longer uses them? –

He then went towards the box and rummaged through it until finding a comic book…

Zorome: - "Asterix and Obelix"? Who are those? –

Seeing it had colors, he took a quick glance at the first pages and before everyone knew it, he was having fun reading it. This made everybody else curious as they soon started looking at the box just as Raven returned…

Raven: *Breathing heavily* - Okey… I'm back! Did I… *phew* miss…? Oi! *Everyone tries to return the objects, but he stops them…* It's alright… it's alright… but next time please ask… -

Naomi: - That would be my fault Raven… I started it… -

Raven: - Well Naomi you're a special case to me so… aw! You found mr. Feathers! And… HARO?! I thought I lost you! –

He gently took the plushie from her and inspected it before returning it to her while he also patted Haro on her head: - Those two were my greatest partners during my first nights at the Federation. Zorran gave mr. Feathers to me once he found out I had lots of nightmares about my rescue. He then gifted me Haro on my first day of school. They are special to me so take good care of them, alright? –

Naomi smiled as she nodded before she saw Raven had a bag on his right hand: - What's that? –

Raven: - Ah right! The reason I ran. Listen, because you and me are no longer with APE, I forgot that we won't receive gifts for Present Day. So, I went ahead and asked Orion to deliver me these… -

He soon pulled out two wrapped boxes and presented one to Naomi: - This one is for you… -

Then he gave the other one to Zero Two: - And this one for you sis. –

Both were surprised at his gesture and soon unwrapped their gifts. Naomi's was an elegant silver ring decorated with the head of a Raven, with both of its eyes being brown gemstones and carrying a diamond on its beak. Zero Two's meanwhile, was a jar of sweets from the RF and a book about the Old-World myths and legends…

Naomi: - Woah… -

Raven: - Something to allow you to remember me everytime I'm away… and for my little sis who likes sweet things, the best sweets of the Federation alongside a book about the Old-World lore…

Zero Two: - Ooh, thanks bro! Although Naomi's looks way better than mine… –

Raven: - Hey, she is my darling and as such, I have the responsibility to give her prettier gifts. No offense to everybody else. If you want a pretty gift like hers just talk to your darling. –

As such, Zero Two went on to give a teasing look to Hiro about it whom stuttered about it: - Well… I… I genuinely need help in that area Raven. You know more about it than me… -

Raven sighed before answering: - Fine… but just this once, heh? Next time ask her and investigate what she likes… -

Hiro: - Will do… so Zero Two, what do you want? –

Raven: "You're lucky that you were raised here Hiro, otherwise any other girl at the Federation would dump you because of that…"

Zero Two: - Well… I genuinely don't know… this is the first time I do this… -

Naomi: - Wait, you mean that you never once had been given a gift on your life? –

Zero Two denied with her head which made everyone feel sorry for her…

Raven: - Well that's about to change now! *Goes to Hiro and grabs him by the shirt* Hiro, I will only tell you this once: every single year on this same date, make sure to always, ALWAYS, give her a present! If you don't… *Cracks his knuckles* Capish? –

Hiro nervously nodded while everybody else found it funny with exception of Ichigo: "Even Raven seems to favor those two together…" For the first time in her life, Ichigo was starting to feel the effects of being friend zoned, but such were interrupted as Zero Two looked at the box and said: - Ara ara, what's this big bro? –

She pulled out a set of papers that had big pictures on their covers… but before everyone could even get a glimpse of them, Raven hurriedly went towards her and snatch them away from her hand…

Raven: *Panicked* - Nope! Nothing to see here! Nope, nope-nope-nope-nope-nope, so much NOPE! –

He then went towards the fireplace where he threw them in and let the flames consume them. It was only after they became ashes that he breathed again…

Raven: "Man, that was close. DAMN YOU FATHER! YOU ALSO STORED THOSE DIRTY MAGAZINES OF YOURS IN MY BOX!?" – Let's just say that was confidential, alright? Don't even ask about it… -

Titus: - But… -

Raven: - DON'T. EVEN. ASK… -

After that, everyone decided to look at the rest of his stuff just as Zorome spotted something…

Zorome: - Hey look, there's a card in there. –

Raven: - Weird… it is unsealed. –

He went to retrieve it and found out that the card had a seal… the seal of his mentor. And it was glued to another unopened box… he decided to set it back inside…

Naomi: - Raven? What is it? –

Raven: - It is from Zorran… and I don't think I'm ready to open it… -

Mitsuru: - From your fallen mentor? Maybe a last goodbye or something? –

Raven: - Maybe… but for now it will stay sealed… at least until I feel I'm ready… -

Everyone respected his decision on the matter, and Raven soon got into a better mood as he pulled out something else…

Raven: - My old beyblades! I used to play a LOT with them! –

Nighttime, almost close to curfew…

Naomi was on the attic alongside Zero Two, both females sharing a special bond ever since the day Raven did the Viking funeral. Zero Two considered the NEXT Pistil to be open and quite confident to express the many new emotions and concepts that she learned daily from her partner even though she was still a little timid about it; Naomi meanwhile considered Zero Two lively and with a similar approach on life to that of Hiro and Raven although her form of expressing it was… "suggestive" sometimes.

Zero Two: - That's a nice ring he got for you… -

Naomi: - I know… I still can't believe something this beautiful can exist… -

She had been hypnotized by the ring without knowing why exactly, some of the rings she had found on the ruined village had more exotic designs and gems and this one looked simple in comparison, but for some reason, the one Raven had gifted him was the one she treasured the most… and she was pretty sure she knew why…

Naomi: "Is crazy to believe that love can change our perspective of things…"

Zero Two: - So… when will big bro expect a similar gift from you? –

Naomi sighed: - That's the problem… he knows a lot more about the 'Old-World' than me which will make it hard for me… -

Zero Two snickered as she soon whispered into her ear: - You can always use your body too, you know? –

Naomi blushed at the suggestion: - Wh-what? I-I mean, I guess I could but… well I don't know, do I look good enough?! –

Zero Two used this to attack: - Oh, don't you feel bad for your body Naomi… see? *Grabs gently the bottom of her breasts* They are already quite round, just give them a few more months and Raven will have his eyes glued to them… -

Naomi: - Eeep! Zero Two! –

A knock on the door to their room was Naomi's savior as she quickly got free from her grasp and rushed to open it…

Naomi: - Coming! –

Zero Two: "Awww, there goes the fun…"

She soon opened the door and saw that it was Ichigo wearing slippers and her nightgown…

Naomi: - Ichigo? What do you need at this time? It's almost curfew. –

Ichigo: - I know… listen Naomi, I need to talk with you privately. It's something personal. –

Naomi: - Umm… alright… just hang on a second… *Turns around to Zero Two* Hey Zero Two, I'll be back in a few minutes, alright? –

Zero Two: - Fine! –

She soon went out of the room and closed the door behind her while asking Ichigo: - So, what is it? –

Ichigo: - Not here… in the stairs please… -

Naomi: - Alright… -

Both girls went towards the stairs at the lobby and once they were at the bottom, Ichigo soon spilled the beans: - Alright… *Breathes in deeply* Naomi, when Raven disappeared from the Garden all those years ago… how did you stayed strong after that event? –

Naomi was surprised by that sort of question, and she soon started to worry: - Ichigo, why would you ask me that out of nowhere? Is someone in the squad sick? Wait, is someone leaving?! –

Ichigo: - No! No, no! No one is in trouble nor leaving! I should have phrased that better… -

Naomi: - You should have… *Breathes in relief* well, to answer your question, it was thanks to Pari, Titus and Ikuno being there when he ran away that I still had strength to go on. We all thought that to honor him we would fight as hard as we could once we became Parasites. Thankfully, we can do that now alongside him… -

Ichigo smiled as Naomi's joy was understandable before she sighed and continued: - I may require that strength Naomi… -

Naomi: - What happened to you? Did something bad really happened? –

Ichigo: - I… I don't know… *sighs* you are aware that for some time now I had feelings for Hiro… right? –

Naomi: - You mean… as in a crush like me with Raven? –

Ichigo blushed before saying: - Um… yes. I have a "crush" on him, as you say… but lately I think it is for naught… ever since Zero Two arrived… -

That was when Naomi's brain lighted up like a light bulb: - Aaaaah! Now I get it… you're trying to seek guidance on how to get rid of your feelings for him? –

Ichigo slowly nodded as she then said: - Ever since he rode with Zero Two… it seems those two clicked or something as they soon become too close with each other. At first I thought it was because of something she did to enrapture him so that she could use him and because of my feelings, I first accused her of being a monster… but then Raven and our sensei arrived and after the time spent with them learning, hearing and seeing how some of the interactions she did were considered "normal" back at the SMC… I realized that maybe she genuinely cared for her. And as time went on and we learned about Hiro's 'condition', it confirmed me that his bond with her is too strong and sincere… and considering that Zero Two is now a genuine friend with all of us… I decided to let her have him once and for all. –

Naomi: - You're basically sacrificing your happiness with him so that he and Zero Two can be happy? That's very noble of you Ichigo. *Pats her on the back* And don't worry, sensei always says that good actions are always rewarded when we least expect them, I'm very sure that one day the universe will send you someone that will love you and you will love back. –

Ichigo felt a great burden being released after confessing, but then another voice surprised them both…

Zero Two: - Well, there is the blonde one that has always been behind you every time… -

Both looked in panic at her as she was going down the stairs…

Naomi: - Zero Two! How much did you hear?! –

Zero Two: - All of it… I have better hearing, remember? And before any of you say anything else… -

Sliding down fast the stairs, she walked up towards Ichigo and surprised her as she hugged her.

Zero Two: - Thank you… I really mean it Ichigo. –

Ichigo was at first shocked but seeing as Zero Two was actually holding her tight… that meant she was being sincere. She was a little confused as to why though but soon decided to ask about it later: - Listen, as long as you promise me that you won't hurt him in anyway… -

Zero Two: - I promise… I swear. "Especially now that he is making progress with his memories… once he has them back, I will tell you everything." –

Naomi smiled as what were once bitter nemesis were now acting as best friends. She let them had a moment before she spoke: - So, you said that Goro seems to also have a crush on Ichigo? –

Ichigo: - Eh? *Blushes* –

Zero Two: *Breaks free from the hug* - Of course! Haven't you seen how he looks and reacts to her smiles and talks? I'm pretty sure you're familiar with those interactions. –

Naomi: - Of course I do! That's how Pari acts whenever she is near Futoshi! –

Ichigo: - EH? *Gets redder*–

Zero Two: - And what about you and Raven, huh? Must assess the elephant in the room, you know? –

Naomi: - The same I would say to you and Hiro, but as for me and Raven, well, we have a right to do so since I'm his girlfriend and he… *covers her mouth realizing she spoke too much…* -

Ichigo and Zero Two: - EHHH?! –

Zero Two: - You two become an official couple!? Since when?! Why neither of you told us about it!? –

For once in her lifetime, Ichigo got to see the enthusiastic side of Zero Two as she shook Naomi trying to extract answers from her, which was kind of fun until she noticed her turning a little green so she decided to rescue her…

Ichigo: *goes towards Zero Two and pulls her away* - Calm down Zero Two… you're going to make her puke on you… -

Zero Two: - Oh! Sorry… -

Naomi: - It's… *glup* Alright… -

Zero Two: - Still, when did it happened?! –

Naomi: - On the last night on the beach… he and I kissed… for real after a long talk about it… and so we confessed and decided to become a couple on the RF terms. –

Ichigo: - But why did you kept it secret from us? On a side note, you did very well while at it… -

Naomi: "One of the advantages of knowing more about the 'Old-World' habits" – Because according to Raven, this could get everyone in "hot water" if APE knew about it. Even if he and I are now with the SMC, some of APE rules prohibit this sort of interactions between Parasites… and the consequences can be harsh… -

Ichigo: - How harsh? –

Naomi looked insecure about it as she looked at every direction before she finally answered: - Hiro's 'condition' is an example… Raven has theorized that whatever he did back at the Garden landed him into a lot of trouble that he had to be… 'wiped'. –

Ichigo was confused but judging Zero Two's grim reaction to the info, she suspected it was no good: - What does that mean? –

Naomi went towards her and whispered the meaning to her: - It means that they modified his memories about the event, trying to make him forget… but the human brain is way more complex than that and, in the end, affected him as a whole… -

Ichigo was shocked to learn that information, they could make Parasites forget their memories!?

Ichigo: "What!? How could that even be…?! Wait… that explains it! The 'bad week' at the Garden! It was Hiro suffering from being wiped! I have to tell Goro about this!"

That was when she became aware of something… most of the time, he had supported her in many ways throughout their career together: in the Garden, in the ceremony, during the kissing operation, the rescue of Titus and Pari, the Ark defense and so many others. At this point, it was second nature of her to thrust everything to him, from the most trivial things to the most important decisions… and Goro had never once complained nor distrusted her… and after hearing what they just recently talked about… it was like her brain suddenly had a big revelation, big enough to impact her like a klaxosaur ramming into Delphinium which left her a shocked and stuttering blushing mess…

Ichigo: - G-g-g-g-g-g-Goro… l-l-l-l-l-l-l-l-l-l-l-likes me? –

Zero Two and Naomi looked at her as the latter said: - You just barely realized? Well, I don't blame you, we literally had no knowledge about the term during all the time in the Garden… -

Zero Two: - Good thing we got sensei and Raven to enlighten us on that, right? –

Ichigo: - CAN WE FOCUS ON THE POINT HERE?! You're telling me that Goro had a 'crush' on me since we were together in the Garden?! All while I showed I had a 'crush' on Hiro?! –

As Naomi slowly nodded, Ichigo slumped down into the sofa as she held her head between her arms: - I must be the worst partner alive then! I had been ignoring his feelings for me because of my own feelings for Hiro for years! How?! Just how is he still coping with me even as…?! –

Naomi: - Hey! Hey! Breathe! Breathe deeply and calm down alright? Repeat after me… inhale… exhale… -

Ichigo soon did so slowly but surely, and with each breath she calmed down until finally she could make some order to her conflicted thoughts…

Ichigo: - Thank you… I just… I never experienced this before and wasn't expecting it to happen like this… -

Naomi: - So was finding out a new secret faction of people like us, with Raven surviving with them, and gaining to experienced mentors along the way. –

Zero Two: - Not to say about a visit to their city and seeing they are thriving in this arid world. –

Ichigo: - Okey, I get it… you're telling me that I can find a solution to this if we were able to live through all of what happened before… -

Naomi: - You don't have to solve it right now. Give it some time to think of a plan to do so first; maybe you can talk with Goro about it tomorrow? –

Zero Two: - Oh, and make sure to bring out your cutest form so that… -

She was shut up by Naomi's hand as she then added: - Ignore her, she is quite the 'closet pervert', in Raven's words. Her advice doesn't count here… -

Zero Two: - Mhhhhh! –

Ichigo chuckled before saying: - Already learnt that after the whole suits feud… *yawns* Well, I guess it's time to hit the beds then… goodnight girls. –

Naomi: - Night. –

Zero Two: - Hmm. –

And so, all 3 of them left to their rooms, their leader soon making plans to assess the new challenge ahead of her and hoping that it would yield the best results. Unfortunately, it would have to wait…

The next day, briefing room…

Ichigo: - What will this test be about? –

Orion: - Simple, after all the progress you had done, we have decided to let your squad fly with your own wings for this occasion. You will do this next operation alone and will evaluate you depending on how you perform. -

Zero Two: - Will big bro be allowed to participate? –

Orion: - Negative, Raven and Naomi will sit this one out. It's time you learn to fend for yourselves here… -

Zero Two: - Awww… -

Raven: - I know, it's a bummer… -

Ichigo: - Alright, so what are the mission details commander? –

Hachi: - We detected a Gutenberg moving on course towards the Cerasus and the Oletros at about 2,000 kilometers from our position to the northwest. –

Nana: - It is moving slowly but after consulting with the Oletros' database we learnt that the klaxosaur belongs to the "votary" category. –

Ikuno: - "Votary" category? –

Sally: - They are klaxosaurs that are too old and know that are reaching the end of their lives. Because of the hostilities with them, this category of creatures literally fights until the end, basically committed to kamikaze attacks when it is about to be killed, making sure to take down the victors whenever possible. –

Hachi: - And because it's in its way here, it means it plans to fight the Plantations and cause heavy damage. As such, you're ordered to intercept before it reaches the Plantation. Dismissed! –

Everyone: - Hai! –

Orion: - Good luck out there kids and pray for answer. –

Everyone: - Pray for answer! –

Sometime later, at the battleground…

Hachi: /Do you have visual on the target?/

Delphinium: /Negative, the fog obscures most of our vision…/

Raven: /Be careful guys. This one has sticky tentacles that are hard to break free from. It only needs one to render you an easy target so make sure to always keep moving./

Delphinium: /Thanks for the tip Raven./

Soon enough, Argentea announced: - I see it! It's inside the fog! –

They followed her and soon enough the big jellyfish like dino appeared in front of them as the fog dispersed around the creature…

Genista: - Woah, it is bigger than expected… -

Alstroemeria: - And this thing usually blows itself up?! –

Delphinium: - Then let's make sure we blow it away from the Plantation! Form up! –

They all got into an attack formation and soon Delphinium went into command mode: - Argentea, have you scanned the Gutenberg already? –

Argentea: - Still on it boss! Wait a minute… there's the core! –

Updating the data to everyone else, they all soon saw the core being exposed in a central tentacle… way too exposed…

Delphinium: "Alright, this is clearly a trap to lure us in, we should avoid it…"

Argentea: - So is Genista or Chlorophytum going to shoot it? –

Strelizia: - Huh, I believed you would be rushing in already. –

Argentea: - Hey, I may be a blockhead, but I do learn! –

Delphinium: - Good thinking though. Genista! Blast the core away! –

Genista: - Roger! –

She loaded a shell on her Rook Sparrow and fired, hitting cleanly the spot of the core… only for it to disappear as the tentacle retracted into the main body!

Genista: - What?! I hit it dead center! –

Raven: /It's a decoy core! The real one isn't in the tentacles!/

Orion: /Careful kids! This one is smart! It's going to counter-attack!/

The warning came in time as many tentacles appeared below the main body and shoot out towards the squad who managed to dodge them and even cut some of them.

Delphinium: - Argentea quick, scan and find the real core! We'll cover you! –

Argentea: - On it! –

She rushed below the main body, dodging more tentacles while her squad mates distracted them. Soon enough, she hit the jackpot…

Argentea: - Found it! *Realizes something* Oh darn it! It's way too deep inside the main body! –

The footage revealed it was stored on the main body, far away from the external epidermis… that was when Alstroemeria noticed that Argentea was in danger!

Alstroemeria: - Look out! –

She fired her Thorn Stingers, wrapped them around Argentea's waist and pulled her hard just as a bunch of tentacles tried to ambush her.

Argentea: - Thanks for the save! –

Alstroemeria: - No problem! –

Delphinium: - Group up everyone! We have to strategize a way to force the core out! –

Strelizia: - Why not just shoot it? –

Argentea: - It's buried deep within the body! Our projectiles won't reach it! –

Chlorophytum: - Mine can! Remember I have a sniper mode! –

She fused her guns and took aim before shooting. The projectile missed the core but hit the main body, which then caused a huge explosion that made everyone fall!

Argentea: - What the…?! –

Orion: /Dammit! This guy already covered itself in explosive goo! This means any attacks on its body will always provoke controlled explosions! Thread carefully!/

Genista: - That was controlled?! –

Alstroemeria: - Watch out! –

The green Franxx wasn't aware of a group of tentacles going for her, and once she did it was too late to dodge! She braced for impact…

Alstroemeria: - Move! Agh! –

And was shocked when the yellow Franxx pushed her out of harm's way but became trapped by them!

Delphinium: - Titus! Pari! –

Alstroemeria: - We can't move! Help! –

Strelizia: - On my way, hang on! –

She and Argentea tried rescuing her, but as they got close to her…

KABOOM!

Strelizia: - Urgh! –

Argentea: - Argh! –

Alstroemeria: - Kyaaaah! –

Both rescuers fell into the ground as a pair of the tentacles released their hold on the yellow franxx and kamikazed themselves into them! The explosion was strong enough to knock Pari and Titus out!

Delphinium: - Strelizia! Argentea! –

Strelizia: - We're alright! *Grunts* Just save them! –

Alstroemeria was quickly being dragged into the explosive jelly body!

Orion: /Hurry! Once she is inside, rescue will be impossible!/

Delphinium knew that it was now or never, and she had a duty to perform as the leader!

Delphinium: - Genista! Shoot at the roots of the tentacles! Strelizia, I need a boost! –

Genista: - Roger! –

Strelizia: - You got it! –

Genista aimed and fired at the roots with her cannon, hitting a bullseye as the explosion caused the tentacles around Alstroemeria to fall off, making her fall too. Without a moment to lose, Delphinium went towards Strelizia whom looked at Alstroemeria behind her, crouched and made a step with her hands. Once Delphinium stepped on it, she launched her with all her strength towards the yellow Franxx.

This sent Delphinium flying fast towards Alstroemeria and managed to catch her midair, then landed safely… even though the action put her right below the jellyfish klaxosaur main body. Soon enough, lots of tentacles started descending from it…

Ichigo: - Time to run… let's focus Goro! –

Goro: - Very well! –

Delphinium's booster went into overdrive as she started gliding through enemy territory in a similar way to that of her mentors…

Raven: *Whistles* - Look at her go! She really has learned a lot! –

Orion: - She is still not clear yet… I don't know why but I got a bad feeling… -

Naomi: "Me too… please be alright Delphinium…"

Argentea: - Come on boss! You're almost there! –

Strelizia: - Come on! –

Delphinium: "Almost there…"

The captain of the squad was almost clear from the tentacles… but unfortunately, the klaxosaur wasn't keen on letting its prey run away as it fired another set of tentacles into the unconscious Franxx…

Delphinium: - Oh like hell I will…! –

She used her right sword to cut them off, but in the act she left herself exposed, an opportunity that the klaxosaur used…

Delphinium: - Dammit! –

It wasn't long before the creature started to trap her but before it could immobilize her completely…

Delphinium: - Strelizia! Take Alstroemeria and get her out of danger! –

Strelizia: - But captain, we can still…! –

Delphinium: - It's an order! RESCUE her first! –

She used the last of her strength to throw Alstroemeria away into Strelizia's receiving hands before one of the tentacles exploded on the back of her head, knocking her out. The jellyfish soon claimed her as it absorbed her into its body…

Everyone: - CAPTAIN! –

Sometime later…

Ichigo was confused as her eyes were dazzled by a white light as she opened them…

Ichigo: "Where am I? What happened?"

As she recovered her senses and sat up, she soon realized she was at the infirmary of the Cerasus, still dressed on her Pistil suit.

Ichigo: "The infirmary? But last I remembered I was inside Delphinium… with Goro!"

She looked towards the other beds, hoping to see him in one of them, only to be disappointed to only see Titus and Pari but not him…

Ichigo: "Oh no, no,nonononono…"

Before she panicked though, the doors opened to reveal Zorome and Miku still wearing their Parasite suits…

Zorome: - You're awake boss! –

Ichigo didn't waste time: - What happened?! Where is Goro?! –

Miku: - Easy in there Ichigo, you're injured! –

Ichigo: - What happened to Goro!? –

Zorome: - Calm down! He is still alive, calm down! –

Ichigo took a few deep breaths before asking calmly: - What exactly happened? Did we win? –

Miku: - You got knocked out and ejected from Delphinium. Both Titus and Pari are safe but unconscious, and Goro is trapped inside the Franxx and inside the klaxosaur… we were ordered to retreat. Right now, we're trying to come up with a plan to rescue him… -

Ichigo was shocked, Goro was trapped alone inside Delphinium! He sacrificed himself for her! Guilt clenched her heart as she finally understood how deeply he loved her…

Ichigo: "Goro, Goro, GORO! You stupid, loveable idiot!"

With a surprising flow of adrenaline and determination she got up from the bed and went straight back towards the command room, ignoring Argentea's warnings and pleas for her to stay in bed. As soon as she arrived there, she saw that Raven was arguing with Hachi…

Raven: - I'm telling you that we can rescue him! I have been in a lot of rescue operations of similar nature! This one is feasible! –

Hachi: - Protocol states that we must leave him to prioritize the safety of the Plantation… -

Raven: - To hell with that protocol! I already told you we can kill two birds with one stone! We can rescue Goro AND slay the klaxosaur! –

Goro: /You don't have to worry that much about me… as long as all of you are alright…/

That voice!

Ichigo: - Goro! –

Everyone looked at her as they just noticed her awake…

Goro: - Ichigo? Thank goodness! You came to! -

Ichigo: - You idiot! What were you thinking, getting yourself swallowed whole ALONE?! Why do you always put yourself second like this? How are you going to get out of there without me? *her voice cracked and some tears appeared on her eyes*You've always been like this! Always making selfish decisions, and always coming back hurt! Why don't you lean on me a little? I'll save you... I'll save you no matter what... So, wait for me! –

Goro: - It's all right, Ichigo. I came up with a plan. I'm going to kill this thing and come home to you. So don't worry… -

Raven: - OH HELL NO! I KNOW WHAT YOU'RE THINKING AND I ORDER YOU NOT TO DO IT MAN! WE WILL RESCUE YOU! –

Goro simply chuckled and said: - Either way, I'm having it ready just in case. I trust you… but you know how it is… I'm cutting communications now… -

Ichigo: - Just wait for me! I will come to you! –

That was the last communication before Goro's went offline. Everybody now knew they were on borrowed time…

Raven: - Alright, everybody, any ideas? Have you seen anything on the klaxosaur that can be use as an access? –

Zero Two: - I do! I remember seeing a hole at the top, a sort of exhaust port for the creature. We can try inserting Ichigo through there. –

Raven: - Is better than nothing. Cap, are you ready to try it? –

Ichigo: - I will do it… just get me there… -

Raven: - Very well, alright this is the plan guys! –

Some minutes later, at the hangar…

White Glint: - White Glint, ready! –

As the NEXT activated, Ichigo waited on a platform carrying Haro with her.

Ichigo: - Are you sure Haro will help me get to him? –

White Glint: - Damn sure I am! Haro was my personal helper when I was training under Zorran. He has a lot of functions and data stored inside him… -

Haro: - Haro! Helping! –

White Glint: - Also, how can you say no to someone as cute and round as him?! –

Naomi: - Raven, focus on the rescue first! –

White Glint: - Right… anyways, you ready cap? –

The white NEXT soon extended his hand towards her and she soon stepped on it…

Ichigo: - More than ready… -

White Glint: - Very well, let's get Goro back! –

The squad soon sortied out again and went directly towards the creature which was still getting closer to the Plantations. Soon enough, White Glint went towards Strelizia and passed Ichigo to her…

White Glint: - Take her safely up there. I will distract the beast… -

Strelizia: - Be careful… -

The NEXT soon started firing and distracting the klaxosaur while Strelizia was launched by Argentea upwards into the exhaust hole…

Strelizia: - Are you ready cap? –

Ichigo: - Hang on… Haro, can you transform into something that can help me move fast inside the fluids? –

Haro responded as two propellers appeared on his bottom and said: - Haro! Transform complete! –

Ichigo smiled and soon said: - Send me in. –

Her hood then covered her face before she was inserted into the matrix full of fluids. Soon enough, Haro started using its propellers to move forward with surprising speed, Ichigo almost let go. Fortunately, she didn't but her hair clip did…

Some minutes later…

White Glint: - Any sign of them!? –

Argentea: - Not yet! –

White Glint: "This is not good. I don't know for how long we can delay this thing before it crosses the safety line."

Argentea: - Wait! I see something coming out! –

That was when Delphinium came out from the body and landed in the ground below!

Delphinium: - Pick me up and hurry! Our Magma energy reserve is inside it and set up to blow! –

Argentea: - On my way! –

White Glint: - Right behind you! –

White Glint kept Argentea clear from the tentacles as she retrieved Delphinium and soon both rushed towards safety but there was one more problem…

Strelizia: - Brother, above you! –

White Glint pilots realized that big chunk of the explosive body was going to fall right in front of their path, so he did the responsible thing that was boosting Argentea and Delphinium out of danger but at the cost of his escape route being blocked off…

Strelizia: - Brother! –

White Glint: -We're alright, we'll find a way around! –

Putting his thrusters into overdrive alongside the afterburn, White Glint zoomed around the chunk and proceeded to escape the danger zone. However, the blue dino wasn't going to let him get away easily, and soon a barrage of tentacles descended upon the NEXT. He gracefully dodged them as he got closer and closer to the safe zone…

White Glint: "Almost there!"

Chlorophytum: - Above you! –

The LYNXS looked up to see another big explosive chunk of the creature falling down into their path!

White Glint: "It is too late to apply the brakes! And we're going at maximum speed! We won't be able too…"

They were interrupted as they suddenly felt something wrapped around the NEXT that pulled it HARD to the side, just barely grazing the scalding hot goo that was reacting to set off another explosion!

White Glint: - Grrrrrmphhf! –

An explosion followed and everyone was afraid that it had gotten the white NEXT… only for it to appear seconds later as it came flying and then crashing into the ground!

Strelizia/Genista/Chlorophytum: - White Glint! –

White Glint: - We're alive! But hurt! –

Alstroemeria: - I got you! –

Everyone was surprised to see the yellow franxx there! And upon closer inspection, they saw that she had used her Thorn Stingers to pull White Glint out of danger!

White Glint: - Titus! Pari! We owe you one… BIG time! –

Alstroemeria: - Then we're even! We owe it to our leader Delphinium here! –

Soon both reunited with the rest of the squad just as the Magma reserve detonated, making the whole klaxosaur explode!

White Glint: - Cerasus, mission accomplished! –

Hachi: /Understood. Standby while we initiate safety docking procedures…/

Delphinium: - How did we do, sensei? –

Orion: - I will tell your results later… for now focus on recovering. You deserve it. –

As they all waited, Ichigo and Goro exited Delphinium and as Ichigo bandaged Goro's wounds, the latter finally decided to say everything, but noticed something was missing from her…

Goro: - Hey, where's your hairclip? –

Ichigo: - Eh? *Tries to reach it only to realize it was gone* Ah, dammit. It must have fallen as I was guided by Haro inside the fluid matrix… -

Haro: - Haro sorry! –

Ichigo: - Don't be, you helped me save Goro… someone more important than a hairclip. –

She petted the round drone ball that seemed happy to be praised as it shook its 'ears'. Goro then pulled out the hairclip he had wanted to gift her for so long…

Goro: - Here, you can have this. I had been trying to give it to you for a long time, but you already had one. –

Ichigo took the hairclip and soon put it on: "I wonder how does it look?"

Haro was the one who answered: - Matches eyes! Matches eyes! –

Goro: - He is right on that, it matches well with your eyes. –

Ichigo smiled and that was Goro's queue…

Goro: - Ichigo… I love you… for a long time… -

Ichigo at first was shocked, but after all the hints that the girls had told her about the night before, she soon smiled in appreciation…

Ichigo: "I see it now then… so this is how Naomi feels like… it's weird, and complex… but also worthwhile…"

Ichigo: - I see… thank you Goro. And… a small part of me does so too… -

Now it was Goro's turn to be shocked!

Goro: "Wait, WHAT?!"

Ichigo: - Zero Two and Naomi talked with me about your "crush" on me. *Sighs* And to be fair, I find it incomprehensible to understand why you would continue to love me after ignoring you for so long as I tried to do the same to Hiro… but it became clear to me that he is happy with Zero Two and she is happy with him too… and my feelings are right now a mess as I try to learn to let him go… but I promise you that as soon as I get them in order, I will properly respond to you. *She smiled as she gets close to him* Thank you for being there for me for a long time. –

She then kissed him in the forehead and Goro instantly became a blushing red mess as he didn't expect such confession from her!

Goro: - I… I… I… -

Haro: - Speechless! Speechless! –

Goro: - Oh shut up please! –

He lightly pushed the round companion away, but it seemed it was enough to make it cry: - Rude! Rude! –

It then went to take refuge on Ichigo's hood as he kept mocking Goro: - Brute! Brute! –

Goro: - Oi! –

Ichigo simply smiled and laughed as she hugged Haro before going to Goro and hugging him too…

Ichigo: - You wouldn't mind if we stayed like this for a little, right you two? –

Goro and Haro had a moment of the 'code bro' and said: - No, go ahead/No! Like it! –

Goro: "What is the outlook for tomorrow? Right now, you're impossible to forecast. But I guess it will be finally in our favor…"

That night, at APE's Eastern Sectors…

A normal Franxx could be seen trying to stand up again, only to reveal one of its legs had been cut, making it difficult. Alas, it never got a chance as a pink light went through its torso, cutting it in half…

?: - Hmph, "designated as punishers" my ass. –

The mysterious figure revealed to be a red and white mecha carrying a pink beam laser that worked like a sword on his right hand. On his left he was carrying a crimson shield. The symbol on the shield had the APE logo on it but with a big crack crossing it diagonally alongside three claw marks.

(The GM, Gundam Evolution model.)

The mecha then turned around and bashed another franxx with his shield as it tried to ambush it from behind. It then sheathed his beam saber and pulled a pistol gun that shot more beams at its attacker, two of them hitting the chest and the head, knocking it out…

GM: - This is what happens when quality goes over quantity. –

At his right, another unlucky franxx was being strangled by a BIG red mecha with his left hand connected to a sophisticated shield and his right hand carrying a weapon that looked like a shotgun. There were also 2 other Franxxs trying to help their friend only to being mowed down by funnel drones that shoot them mercilessly.

(Sazabi! The 'Red Comet')

Sazabi: - More like, this is what happens when their outdated policy about survivors comes back to bite them in the ass… -

The mech had enough and aimed the shotgun at his victim and pulled the trigger. The franxx flew away a few feet before landing with the cockpit destroyed and some blood and gore spread on it. He then turned to see a blue mech laying waste to a whole squadron as he stabbed, shoot, and punched them into oblivion, seemingly in a rampage…

(Kampfer model)

Sazabi: - Seems that Alexander is at it again… -

GM: - Can you blame him? He is trying so hard to find his missing son… -

Sazabi: - Kassandra should have kept the information of him not being with the punitive expedition. –

GM: - Speaking of the queen… -

Another mech appeared in front of the Kampfer and made Alexander stop his rampage. This one was the one that appeared in the photo from the recovered footage meaning Kassandra was the feared leader of the Disavowed.

Kassandra: - Alright, that's enough Alexander, remember the deal we have with the SMC. –

Alexander: - Hmph… I don't know why they invest on these scum… -

Kassandra: - They are children like the one they took away from you, Alex. If you go on like this, you will risk losing him too and by your OWN hand. –

Alexander: - Tsk… fine. –

He soon fell back in line as Kassandra went towards the Sazabi and the GM.

Kassandra: - Char, how did it go with the new recruits? –

Char (Sazabi (Why not?)): - Thomas here handled himself very well, as for Euanthe… -

Bang! Soon after, another Franxx fell near the group as another mech appeared nearby its wreckage. This one carried a big version of a sniper rifle.

(GM sniper II)

Euanthe: - You missed one. And 4 stragglers… -

Char: - Well, there's your answer. –

Kassandra: - Excellent… alright this should be enough to send a message to those 7 boomers that they need better hunting material, or their hunters will become the prey. –

Thomas: - You think this will finally call the attention of the 9's? –

Kassandra: - It will, but unfortunately, they won't come anytime soon. My contact has told me that they're heading for their HQ, the "Garden" for maintenance. –

Euanthe: - They claimed themselves to be perfect but still act like any other human. This "maintenance" of theirs is just a hoax playing on their minds. –

Kassandra: - I know, I know, I also can't wait to knock them down from their pedestal, but we have to be patient for a little longer. Operation "Cinder" is officially active, and the SMC is preparing their forces for it. –

Alexander: - Huh, finally. At least I can finally avenge my brother's death. –

Thomas: - You and your obsession with revenge… can't you just do as the boss and let…? –

He was suddenly grabbed by Sazabi as he pulled his GM out of the way and blocked Kampfer's attempt to grab him…

Alexander: - YOU DON'T HAVE A RIGHT TO SAY ANYTHING ABOUT IT! I swear that if you…! –

Kassandra: - THAT'S ENOUGH! Both of you stand down! –

Thomas: - Sorry boss… -

Alexander simply grumbled before Kassandra sighed but then they all received a communication…

Kassandra: - What is it, Amuro? –

Amuro: - Commander, I think Alexander will like this… -

He soon passed some data through the channel and as the present there read it, they all soon become surprised at what it meant…

Alexander: - Is it true? –

Kassandra: - The data speaks true… Alexander, we found your son. –

And that's a wrap! Oh boy, a lot has been revealed today in this chapter! We got now ANOTHER faction out there and one of their members seems to be on a personal quest to rescue somebody in APE! Who is the lost son? And what will our squad do now that they have a new pet? Stay tuned for next chapter!

On a sad note, my favorite game, Gundam Evolution, is being disconnected after just one year of service. I know it wasn't the best game, but dammit! It is fun! And at the end of this year it is going to be discontinued. Awww man, it's thanks to this game that I finally convinced myself to add Gundams into the fic. Godspeed you magnificent game…

So, with those notes out of the way, till next time!

...

...

...

...

... pray... for answer...

... Two trials had been answered...

… a lost raven shares his burden…

… and the dove shares her wings…