26th Shot: Eyes of Science
Expected the unexpected–everything could happen at every occasion possible, meaning there's no guarantee that arrangement would go smoothly as planned. Many things served as different factors could either hinder or increase the process or even the outcome itself–besides, life is an unpredictable mistress, fate is full of unmentioned secrets, journey only has clear start but vague endings and even more vague terrain. To handle it, it lies in human's instinct to prepare for such things coming out of blue–at least, it wouldn't struck so heavily like lightning nor rendered someone beyond despair.
However, there lies another quaint matter looming up ahead–even after so many meticulous preparations, so much cautiousness being put upfront, people could somehow still be caught off guard. Expected the unexpected is a difficult, nearly impossible term to fulfill–one must think thoroughly over more than a thousand scenarios and followed up each to estimate tolerable or wished goal. Sometimes, even those thousand scenarios to be think of missed the mark completely.
Human could plan but the universe has a lot more strings to pull.
This is one of those. The worst Shinko could think of would be yet another horrible maelstrom suddenly struck, unsteady waves intending to crash their boat to smithereens, or even some malfunctions in the engine. Maybe they would need to hold on onto dear life and treat the boat as their lifeline going through it, however they'll live thanks for the life vest. In the end, all of it were proven not happening. Yet, they receive the most unpredictable and the poorest event never could be thought of.
The radio kept crackling with the same interval, same message being sent over and over again to them intentionally and specifically. Not by mistake nor by some nature error, it's artificial which means it's sent by someone–or something. Only a single word bringing so much terror and threat Shinko almost felt the temperature dropped drastically–maybe it did at some point and the ice crawling on her skin wasn't a hallucination.
It's natural for them to start coming up with different questions when they're facing an abnormal situation. If they, or it, have questions then she's in the same wavelength.
Why?
Why now?
Why them?
Everything was in silence for these past year–no signs, no abnormalities, nothing. Could be whatever being it is didn't notice their existence until now? More questions began flooding in Shinko's mind in a more unrestrained pace like a broken dam, instantly rendered everything as steady ringing of white noise.
Who or what sent it?
How?
What will happen next?
Are they and everyone on danger?
Shinko felt her breath hitch, her throat closing up–it felt raw and hurt. Danger–they and everyone in the village could possibly be in danger at any time, at any moment. Everyone–Yuzuriha, Suika, Mirai, Nikki, Minami, Ruri, Taiju, Kaseki, Francois, Kohaku, the villagers, their comrades. All of them have the same looming threat as them who's out in the sea currently.
Senku was here, which means they're basically defenseless when it comes to throughout plans and diving stations–which the scientist do the best out of all of them. Kohaku and the others could manage, but would their number be enough? How big is it? How fast? How many? Only a few of them could be counted as warriors with fighting experience, if sheer number was to come then without a doubt they would be overwhelmed. They wouldn't stand a chance and nowhere to hide.
Everyone is in danger.
All of them would be killed.
There would be deaths.
Danger. Danger. Danger. Danger. Danger–
"Shinko!"
Clarity–that call was clarity cutting clean, straight, and through into the thick haze suffocating in her mind. Breathe, Shinko finally could breathe–she didn't even notice she stopped doing the most basic thing in human biological function in a normal pace. She forgot how long, she didn't even realize–at least she understood it happened for some time seeing how inky black threatening to swallow her vision whole and her head felt like being stuffed with cotton. Extremely uncomfortable feeling churning deep in the pit of her stomach–it was ready to throw everything it has, Shinko had to clenched her jaw and wishing for it to vanish.
Tight grip on her hand helped pulling her mind back into reality. Stiffly, Shinko glanced at the larger hand–all blurry, engulfing her smaller one. It felt warm against her ice cold one. The silhouette was clear enough for her mind to comprehend.
"It's alright, Shinko." Voice so gentle coming through, forcing itself be heard through the roaring heartbeat pounding in her eardrums. Sounded so far away, but at the same time it's not. "Everyone is fine. Nothing happens. All of us are safe, okay? Everything is alright, First Name]."
It held assurance, something she needed the most–still, it was hard to let herself fall into the bliss of security when they're still out in the open with literally nothing to defend themselves. The thought almost threw her normal senses back to haywire, however the hand ever so patient made itself known before it happened–another tight yet gentle grip tugging her back to the surface.
"It's alright, Shinko. I'm here. Everything's fine. Breathe with me, okay?"
Hazy yellow–it was close, it obscured their intertwined hand but for once, it's fine. Then there was tender hand running through her hair which instinctively made her shoulders loosened. It gently pushed her head to finally rest onto something–it's warm and Shinko instantly wanted to bury her face in it, closed her eyes, and forget the everything. Familiar scent tickled her nose, steady thrumming of heartbeat, rise and fall breathing patterns which she learned to follow.
"That's it. Everyone's okay. You're okay."
Then another hand rested on her shoulder, firmly gripping on–another gesture trying to anchor her.
It's rough on the edges, but served its purpose with unwavering assurance. That's when Shinko really believed that everything is fine. Soon enough, things started to get clearer and her mind straightened itself–her head didn't feel uncomfortably light nor her chest didn't feel starting to burst from the lack of sufficient air, her tunneling vision finally widened.
"Are you back with us now?" That voice was no longer miles away, in fact it whispered gently right beside her ear. Shinko nodded in affirmation against Ukyo's neck–the gentle pat on the back of her head still present and she wished to just curled up against his sturdy figure longer.
Ukyo never failed to give her the right sense of security and feeling of safety–having it done as if it was easy as breathing. He knew the right gesture, the right action to take–the ex-sonarman probably understood her better than herself at this point.
But they didn't have any luxury in staying still–Shinko refused to indulge herself. Lifting her head, it was magical that sunlight didn't pierce into her eyes and rendered her blind even for a split second–everything was still blue and calm without any sorts of unwanted disturbance besides the on-going Morse Code. The sky was azure clear and no enormous waves ready to crash onto them. No physical threat so far and Shinko could exhaled slowly in relief.
Ukyo loosened his embrace but never letting go of their intertwined hand–same with the hand which wasn't moving an inch from her left shoulder.
Craning her neck, she was met with Senku's solemn look. For once, there's no mirth, mischief, and amusement dancing in those eyes like it usually did when his gaze met with hers. It's unfamiliar but welcomed, especially knowing it was him showing concern when he's having a hard time doing so. Shinko felt her figure truly loosened and finally relaxed.
Opening her mouth, words immediately flew from her tongue without her permission. "…I'm sorry."
There were a lot of things to apologize for–losing composure, being such an insightful person, being a damn hindrance in the middle of their short voyage. Of all things, she let herself drowned in her mind rather than staying with head above water during most crucial times. An utter embarrassment and disappointment.
"Why did you say that? You did nothing." Ukyo stated, deep frown marred his face and instead, Shinko had a hard time understanding why was he displeased by her apology. "You're scared, Shinko. It's normal to be scared."
It is normal, until you lose control of yourself, spiraling in the most inappropriate time, and turned yourself to a baggage who needs to be taken care of.
"Do you always speak language of nonsense." This time it was Senku. His tone made her instinctively swallowed–he's sounded extremely serious to the borderline of pissed off. Ishigami Senku was pissed and Shinko didn't realize she had the ability to make him feel so. For the first time, the archer had a hard time keeping her gaze on the scientist–tongue heavy in her mouth to reply.
"Anyways, glad that you're alright, Shinko-chan," Gen, sensing the heaviness seeping between them, quickly went to action. His rather cheerful tone served as an ice-breaker and said young woman was grateful for it.
"Thank you, Gen-san." Finally, she mustered up a courage to speak–complementing it with a wry smile.
For once, there's no yells of excitement from Chrome. The brunette spoke quietly instead. "Should we head back? I don't think we should continue-"
"No, it's alright."
Maybe everyone could hear her desperation, but Shinko was less worried about that even though she knew it's rude to suddenly cut Chrome off–he tried to look after her, damnit and currently all she did was being ungrateful.
No. They couldn't possibly halt this whole ordeal for just some irrelevant hitch along the way–it's not important when they have a bigger hurdle upon them. "I'm sorry, Chrome-san, but I'm okay now."
I have to and it won't happen again, Shinko vowed internally.
It didn't cost anything now but who knows what it would do in the future?
Ryusui was abnormally silent as well which made Shinko shifted on her seat restlessly–how would she face him after this? Maybe after witnessing this condition, he would think twice about letting her into the crew for their voyage. Despite being self-proclaimed as the greediest man in the universe, Ryusui never seconded anyone's condition both physically and psychologically. Being so desirous never blinded his moral compass as he strives for the best for him and for everyone.
Crackle!
A second later, rather loud crackling sound could be heard through crashing of waves around them–successfully diverted their attention towards the phone sitting innocently on Senku's seat whilst the scientist was on his feet.
It served as a reminder that they have a more urgent matter at hand, and they had to move on quickly–no time for dawdling nor sitting in silence.
Shinko breathed shakily. "It's still going,"
It indeed was, with no intention of stopping anytime soon.
"What in the world is this?" Ukyo muttered underneath his breath in disbelief, teal eyes widened in horror. "All of the sudden… Where's this coming from? We're being blasted with Morse Code on some super strong radio waves."
"What the hell are they saying!?" Chrome's yell of annoyance almost made Shinko jumped in her seat. However, it was such a relief to see Chrome reverted to his usual self–loud, brave, and extremely upfront. "Who the hell are they!? All this 'why' is irritating! BE A MAN AND SHOW YOURSELF!"
"You're the irritating one, Chrome!" Ryusui shouted as a reply, not liking the loudness of the brunette.
Ukyo chuckled nervously at the two's antics. Hearing him managed to keep being level-headed even in this situation boosted up Shinko's courage a little. "They might be a man, but…"
"Yo." Without waiting for anyone, Senku was one step ahead as always. Tackling the esteemed culprit head on, he spoke confidently through the phone. "Are you the one? The mastermind behind humanity's petrification?-
Automatically, Shinko's tensed at his accusation–whoever or whatever contacted them was the main suspect for humanity's petrification, for the destruction of humanity's long road of modern civilization of 2 million years. Despite the shock it gave her, the hand around hers and the other heavy one settling on her shoulder anchored her–not once did Ukyo let go of her hand and Senku lifting his off her shoulder.
The scientist tightened his grip slightly–it assured her and she understood that he knew what to do.
Cackling in amusement, Senku continued. "We finally met. After 3,700 years, I'm sick of waiting. Isn't this thrilling?"
.
.
They were back–they finally took a step to the dryland soon enough, all in one piece and receiving no injuries or whatsoever.
Senku decided to cut their test short and Shinko understood that it's impossible to continue when they're in a state of emergency. Their plan was to regroup and sharing all the information they had to everyone–it's important to know what kind of condition all of them were into.
Besides, Senku despised disclosing news especially when it's crucial–everyone deserved to know so all of them could prepare for the worst (which Shinko wished would never come). At least, she could finally have her inner peace after witnessing everyone still being busy and lively doing their portion of labor.
Taiju, Yo, and Nikki were hauling logs onto the top for Kingdom of Science's main building–they did so almost without breaking a sweat, even as far as chatting comfortably whilst doing so. Not only them, the villagers and modern people were working together as well–everyone is safe, nothing happened when her and the others were exploring the sea for gasoline test.
Her hands stopped trembling and she was no longer bathing in cold sweat.
"See? Everyone is doing alright." Ukyo, blessed him for his attentiveness, stayed by her side along the way.
She didn't want to be alone at the moment and he understood. Initially, she hesitated to reach out more comfort in his hand, but Ukyo took to himself to had it done–his hand found hers and keeping still even when they're back at the second headquarters.
Usually, Chrome would've thrown a fit at the view (saying something about marriage phase or relationship along the line)–he mentioned nothing. Shinko was thankful.
"Shinko-nee! Welcome back!" Suika was the first one to really greet her, excitedly welcoming her return accompanied by Chalk who barked in glee. The little girl wasted no time–dropping her work for a few seconds to beelined towards the archer and jumped into her arms.
As always, Shinko braced herself ready to catch her–her weight which lightly gave her muscles some pulls giving her sense of calmness. She never had any difficulties in carrying Suika–the young woman wished she do it forever and that Suika stayed the lovely little girl she was. Pulling away from her hug, the little girl asked, "How is it!? Is the ocean fun!? Suika is curious!"
"Yeah," That was the only thing Shinko deemed as the correct and decent answer for Suika. There's no need for her to know how the young woman broke down and became a mess in the middle of it. There's no need for little Suika to burdened herself with such things.
Bringing Suika back into a hug, Shinko remarked. "It was fun. It's big, beautiful, and majestic. You will love it, Suika-chan."
"Suika can't wait to see it!"
The little girl returned the hug–even if she knew Shinko's hug was a little bit tighter than usual, and how Ukyo's eyes never turned away from her figure in a way it wasn't the usual, Suika didn't once questioned it.
.
.
Previous voyagers of the sea did gather around at their main building–a simple structure stood on top of the webbed cliff of the formerly Mori Tower which was once Tsukasa Empire's headquarters. Knowing that they're frequently went back and forth between here and Ishigami Village, the place the established as Kingdom of Science's second base of operation. And it even received an honorary name–Kingdom of Science's Strategy Room, completed with a big letter of S carved from wood on the front along with banner made from same material. Namari and the mangaka did a great job at making it.
"W-w-who is it?" Suika asked shakily as she watched the others were moving out and about to deliver materials for some unfinished structure above. "The one behind those strange words?"
Senku did announced about what they have been through it the ocean–spreading like wildfire eating away dead grass, in just a moment every ears already knew about the ground-breaking news. Considering how their population wasn't increasing from the lack of revival fluid, it wouldn't be a surprise. Still, they went on their merry way as if nothing happened–keeping their hands doing the work while discussing the matter at the same time. No significant visible threat attacking so there's nothing to worry about that much–Shinko found herself jealous, she hoped to remain positive and not crumple under the enormous pressure of worry.
"Could there be another group of survivors far away on the other side of the ocean…?" Ruri tried to guess, putting down the basket of rations in one of the caves.
"Was it a distress signal? A drifting ship could have picked up our radio waves." Yo replied, trying to piece in the most logical explanation he could come up with. A log over his shoulder, he tracked up.
Nikki, who did the same thing and trailed after the ex-policeman, argued. "If that were true, wouldn't it be 'SOS' or 'hello'? Doesn't barrage of 'why?'s seem more likely to make us think 'why!?'"
Her assumption did make sense–if it's another revived person on the other side of the globe seeking for their help and accidentally have their radio wave frequency lined up with theirs, the universal message would be S.O.S or even a simple 'help' would suffice. On what purpose did they send 'why' as a message? The word didn't fit anywhere in necessity–sounding more ominous and acted more similar to menacing threat rather than anything. Not to mention the torrent of repetition for minutes.
"They did repeat the message over and over again," Shinko couldn't help but commented, fiddling with the strap of her quiver slung on her chest–after that incident, she vowed to keep it as close as possible as well as her bow. It's better to take many precautions. "It was anything other than help."
"Even though I'm worried, I don't have a clue!" Taiju boomed with a wide smile. Although his statement didn't really sound convincing, his following words made up for it. "Let's leave it to Senku and the others and do what we can! NOW OFF TO WORK!"
Francois nodded in agreement. "I wholeheartedly agree, Taiju-sama."
"You're right, Taiju-san," The young man's overwhelming positivity and trust made Shinko's lips quirked up a little. Someone with a personality like Taiju's was definitely needed in this type of situation. "We have to focus on what we can do."
"Yeah, too many cooks spoil the broth," Kohaku's on the boat as well. "Our only option is to rely on the ones meeting. Those present for the actual decision are probably the best of the best in the Kingdom of Science,"
Her blue eyes drifted towards the five people gathering around a single table in the building. Shinko couldn't help but followed her gaze especially when she bore absolute confidence and trust in it. Even though she didn't have to see who it was, her and probably everyone as well, could already guess which people who's the most capable in handling this matter along with its decision making.
"Our five generals!" That's right, Senku, Gen, Chrome, Ukyo, and Ryusui–there's no one more fitting other than five of them.
"Actually, isn't Chrome a bit iffy?" Not even a minute passed, the blonde young woman already questioned said brunette's involvement in this–which incurred Shinko to sputter before trying to withheld the laughter intended to explode. "He's got some brains, but his personality is too simple. Shouldn't it be Shinko instead?"
"I'M NOT SIMPLE!" Chrome defended, head popping out from the doorway give Kohaku a piece of his mind.
"That's what I'm talking about."
"I don't think I fit in this," Shinko held her hands up in surrender and laughed nervously, rejecting Kohaku's suggestion. "Besides, we need to have another insight aside from modern people. Chrome-san is more capable because he's brilliant even without knowing modern civilization."
Kohaku hummed, turning her head to look at the taller young woman standing beside her as they watched their five generals through the doorway. "That's true, but you're quick to catch up in any moment even simplified it for everyone. It's easy to understand your explanation, Shinko."
"Yeah!" Suika cheered, raising her hand up enthusiastically. "Suika thinks so too! Whenever there's hard words, Shinko-nee makes it easier to understand!"
Smiling at the two, Shinko reached out to pat the little girl's head. "I'm more of a follower than leader. I'm not good at decision making and leadership. There's no one more suitable than five of them. But thank you, Kohaku-chan, Suika-chan."
Good people who owned heart of gold, that's what Ishigami villagers are– although some of them have very peculiar personality (Magma and his group along with Ginro for example).
"Since Chrome here doesn't know about that time, how about we clear up the story so far?" Ukyo advised and through his words, the discussion has begun.
"Okay, thanks. I remember most of what I heard before though!" Chrome nodded enthusiastically–Shinko guessed that Senku told him about the life-changing event occurred 3,700 years ago when modern civilization thrived. "On that day, a mysterious beam suddenly rained down upon the earth, turning all of humanity to stone! This was, of course, unprecedented, even for the technology of civilization back then. When Senku was unpetrified by himself, 3,700 years had passed!"
"All of us remember the same thing; green light before we were petrified." Shinko remarked, feeling shiver crawling down her spine–she remembered the day vividly as if it was yesterday; bright green light enveloped every corner of everything. Then all of a sudden, she couldn't move and lost herself to the tugging of fatigue in the back of her–lulling her to endless black void. "Some probably retained their consciousness, but others didn't."
"It sounds terrifying." Kohaku frowned, imagining the moment when the only functioning part of your being is your mind and being trapped in it for the longest time. Keeping yourself sane was nearly an impossible feat.
Ryusui scoffed. "So, we're thinking that the mastermind behind all that is the 'Why Man'!"
Ukyo raised an eyebrow, feeling uncomfortable with the naming. "You're calling them the 'Why Man'?"
"There's no way that they could have kept living for 3,700 years." The captain mused, tone dropped lower and deeper. "Which means, did they also petrify themselves?"
Even if they did, how did they measure when to revive themselves? Even though coincidence exists, it wouldn't line up that precise.
"Hey, hold on, hold on." Chrome interjected. "I know I was all worked up earlier, but are we even sure this Why Man is an enemy? Is there a chance they're friendly?"
"It's not impossible, but we wouldn't have to strategize if they turn out not to be an 'enemy'." Senku quoted. There's a possibility Chrome's theory would be true but everything was still grey in all sides. "If they do happen to be friendly, we'll have over-planned, but that would be the end of it."
"Well, I mean, at the very least, things are seriously not looking too good for that outcome," Gen stated, eyes shifting to look at every person in the room nervously. "After all, they ignored Senku-chan's taunting and just like that, the 'WHY' Morse Code signal stopped without any other reply."
They couldn't rule out the chance of them being friendly, however the situation was unlikely going towards that territory–first reason would be the message 'why', it's already illogical on its own. The second one would be cut off contact after Senku's reply, just like Gen mentioned before–if they're truly friendly, the least they would receive another message which was less threatening one. In the end, there was none and all of them were left with even more questions and speculations.
Senku hummed, before turning his gaze outside–when Shinko's stare clashed with his, she automatically stiffened, not expecting the contact.
Particularly when she thought he was still… angry (it wasn't the best term to be honest, maybe it more of a displeased; Shinko had no clue). "What's your take, Huntress?"
Said young woman blinked slowly, not knowing how to respond especially this counted as her sudden involvement in what's supposed to be a private meeting. "I thought this is only between the five of you…?"
"What're you talking about?" Chrome asked in confusion. "You're there too, right? We need more head in this!"
"You worded a few things better than us sometimes," Since when did Ukyo also agree to this too? Giving her a smile, he continued. "A different insight would be helpful."
"Aren't you Senku's advisor? Then, we need your input!"
Shinko deliberately ignored Ryusui's initial question.
"Well…" The young woman went silent for a few seconds, knuckle underneath her chin before finally answering. "After that, I didn't see anything. They're definitely only present via radio waves, aside from that none at all. We know basically nothing; no clear location, no certain source, no direction. They could be anywhere; they could be moving around or staying in one place. We never know."
"It's unclear where they are and where they're going." Ukyo nodded in agreement. Pulling his cap down to cover his eyes, he continued solemnly. "An invisible enemy, right? That's the worst."
An invisible enemy–the most fitting term for whoever or whatever they're currently facing. Without any slightest clue, there's no moving from square one at this rate.
"THAT'S IT!" Shouting in eureka, Senku thrusted his finger to Ukyo who was taken aback by the abrupt gesture.
Then the scientist chuckled, that's when Shinko knew he already had a plan set in his mind–all he needed to do was make it real with his knowledge in science. "In that case, it's simple. We need to 'see' the invisible enemy."
.
.
Trying to see the invisible.
It sounded impossible if it's done only with naked eyes, however through science and technologies based on its principles, human had once overcome the deal. Now, they just need to relieve it in this new stone era using the limited resources they had.
Seeing isn't limited to vision to begin with–before it definitely was, but now it could be in any form. Prescence, waves, signals, sounds, scents, temperature influx and its opposite, and many unmentioned more. The more advance their knowledge, the more they could cover different fields and have more advantage.
Knowing Senku, who always took a hundred steps ahead of them, without a doubt he already had a specific invention in mind–all the scientist had to do was make it present in their hands. Which means, it's time for another science class of modern technologies courtesy of their leader–the results would definitely fry every modern human's mind braincells from sheer shock and bewilderment.
Science Laboratory was the perfect place for cooking up… whatever Senku planned to construct–that's why all of them gathered there.
"Does this size suffice, Senku-san?" Also, the reason why Shinko currently rummaging through the shelves and cupboards for objects required to assist said young man. Spending some time to move flasks, rack of reaction tubes, petri dishes aside, she get her hands on the most important thing Senku needed–an Erlenmeyer flask quite big in size.
The scientist looked over his shoulder whilst he kneeled in front of the material baskets, pondering for a few seconds before nodding in approval. "Yeah, that's enough."
At first, Shinko definitely expected cold-shoulder treatment from him–it would inevitable and she understood if he dismissed her from work to get everything done alone. By then, Shinko would give him the space he needed for a little while before moving on to confrontation after both of them significantly more level-headed.
Nothing was going to be solved through a conversation turmoil of emotion involved–it could turn out worst, similar to how you're pouring fuel to a raging fire.
However, Senku didn't–which resulted a conflicted feeling on her side. Shinko couldn't choose between feeling relief or perplexed beyond measure. Acting as if nothing had ever happened in the first place, the young man approached her in his usual, nonchalant manner and telling her to look for instruments he needed while he gathered the materials himself.
The scientist probably thought the issue was nowhere near serious–it didn't need to stretch longer as he deemed it unimportant and a waste of time, no necessity to brought it up. So, he let it slide, dismissing it with a wave of his hand as if it was a puff of fog obscuring his sight. Like him not wanting to dwell deeper, Shinko decided to follow the flow–promising herself to have a throughout talk with him in the next chance.
"An Erlenmeyer flask?" Ukyo questioned, referring to the familiar glass object in her hand but not familiar with its use this time. With the help of the others, they successfully move a large wooden table outside in order to put equipment for this science endeavor–others were already arranged, only the flask and the materials left.
Shrugging sheepishly, Shinko replied, "To be honest, I also don't have any clue on what it will be needed for."
"We can see the enemy with this?" Kohaku reached out for it in curiosity and Shinko let her–she held it close to her face, her blue eye peering into the inside through the opening.
Gen laughed nervously. "No, that's not it."
"Actually, yeah?" Senku remarked as he stepped out with a clay tray on hand, sounding as if it was the most obvious thing human could observe.
"I WAS RIGHT!?" Kohaku shouted in disbelief.
"You've got a job, Power Team!" Once the scientist called out, both Nikki and Taiju's head perked up–them being members of said exclusive team. Referring to the strange, multicolored rock with rough and rather glossy surface on the tray, he picked one up. "Chrome found a ton of minerals in the caves. This lovely Sphalerite-"
Chrome blinked before finally recognizing said stone. "Oh, yeah! I did pick that up!"
"Needs to be turned into a very fine-" Apparently, the Power Team didn't need any further instruction to understood–Senku wasn't even finish with his request when said mineral already been demolished into soft powder in a blink of an eye. Taiju and Magma both taking the bigger chunk and smashed to pieces in a big basin, Kohaku and Nikki then ground it in a bowl into a finer consistency.
One stray flying gravel even planted on his face from sheer speed and manpower the team displayed.
"INSTANTLY SMASHED!" Gen shrieked in utter disbelief when Nikki presented with bowl of said request.
"It's extremely instant almost like sorcery," Shinko muttered and laughed nervously, passing a beaker glass filled with water to Senku.
The fine powder then poured into the beaker glass with internal measurement the scientist deemed the best one–quickly Senku stirred to get it evenly mixed. Amazingly, the liquid did mix and when Senku poured the mixture it into the flask, it went completely still on the bottom–forming a layer rather than sloshing around. "Once we dissolved it in water and pour it into the Erlenmeyer flask, it clings to the bottom on its own. It's fluorescent paint!"
Shinko blinked, staring at the bright colored paint. "I never thought making fluorescent paint would be this simple,"
"Once you have the resources, you're in for surprises, Huntress." Senku remarked and passed the flask to Kaseki, who's ready with his own preparation and tools.
"Then comes the usual crafting." The elder hummed whilst his hand was tinkering. "Basically, we need to make a giant vacuum tube from the Erlenmeyer flask, right? Ohohoho, that's too easy~ It's the little ones of those that are hard."
He must be referring to the vacuum tubes as their phone's components.
"Hmph, we've come this far, but I still have no idea what it is." Ryusui commented with his eyebrows furrowed in confusion–and most of them shared the same thought. Bright neon color paint, vacuum tube, connected with source of energy, all of it were nowhere near their comprehension. And unlike its usual position, the flask was placed on its side with the bottom facing them.
"The only one who knows is Senku," Ukyo remarked.
"Once the switch is on, you'll probably get it!" Suika suggested, finger pressing the switch on with a resounding click.
Studying the unusual position, the completely doffed bottom, the power source on the other end, Shinko arranged the existing clues slowly in her head in order. When realization dawned on her, her eyes widened in shock. "Projection… Is this a screen?"
"Ten billion points for you, Huntress!" Senku exclaimed, grinning widely. "When vacuum tube is evenly heated, the rush of heated electrons are sped up by the electrode! And once they hit the bottom of the flask, the fluorescent paint lights up. It's the birth of the display screen!"
Ukyo laughed breathlessly, hand reaching out to pat her head. "It's amazing you can piece everything up so quickly, Shinko."
He wore that certain smile–the smile she noticed radiate something similar to proud. Still gentle and warm, but seemingly brighter than the usual one. The particular smile which rendered her speechless with heat began crawling to her face–catching her off guard completely.
The lack of respond or reply did make Ukyo confused, before Shinko saw concern began marring his face–the hand which was previously on her head moved to her back. "Wait, you're a little warm, are you sick?"
"N-no, I'm fine, Ukyo-san," Her reply started by stuttering didn't sound convincing at all, the young woman cursed herself internally.
"Really? Is it the sun? It's kind of bright and it's quite hot. Let's move somewhere with more shade." Seriously, how kinder could this man be? Countless time it showed and Shinko could only become even more awe each time it happened–Saionji Ukyo is truly a blessing, she wanted to scream so loud until the world knows.
Forgetting her initial fluster, the young woman replied to his worries with a grin. Stepping closer and decreasing the space between them, Shinko choose to be bold in her own way–leaning her forehead on his shoulder. Of course, he didn't even flinch–instead his hand was back to caress her head.
"I'm fine because you're here, Ukyo-san."
There's no one she admired the most more than Saionji Ukyo.
.
.
Nothing good lasts forever and refusing to be the main target for bizarre things (read: Minami and the girls), both of them pulled away from each other. Ukyo wanted it to be longer, however he found trying to explain certain things was much too tiring, along with eyes threatened to burn holes through them beginning to make its presence known. Still, he kept a hand rested on Shinko's back (he swore he could hear Minami squealing from the distance, but chose to ignored it).
Senku was in the middle of explaining how display screen works–completely immersed with his lecture. "When the dot's beam starts whirling around, it forms an image. With precise speed, left to right, up to down. Because of that, it projects a picture on the entire screen. That's the good-old cathode ray tube television."
"At a precise speed…?" Chrome wondered, his tone sounded unsure.
"But how do we get the beam to move at a precise speed?" This time, it was Shinko who asked.
"With a magic stone!" Ukyo was real close in doubting his ears. He didn't just hear Senku, the most scientific and logical being to ever walk on earth, choosing magic stone as an answer. Maybe the heat was really getting to him. "Using the power of a crystal!"
"He said he's gonna use a crystal ball to see his enemies or something," And Yo wasn't exactly trying to subtle with his whispers to Gen about possibilities Senku losing his mind. "He's going crazy after all, isn't he?"
"Yeah, but I'm not senile yet." Said scientist jumped into the conversation with ease was the proof, scoffing in amusement. Raising a certain mineral on his hand, it glittered against the sunlight–a crystal it its raw form. "Within the crystal, there really is some magic power!"
"I thought Senku-san is possessed by something." Shinko blurted and her blatant words made Ukyo sputtered instinctively before laughing.
"Same here. Magic and Senku is never meant to be in one sentence." Ukyo couldn't help but agree, especially knowing how the scientist was displeased with anything that couldn't be explained logically. Hearing said person mentioned magic so confidently was like a douse of cold water.
"Huh? Are we talking about science?" Gen asked, his confusion apparent. Peeking a little closer, the mentalist watched as Senku chipped the crystal into small squares with Suika's help.
"It's ten billion percent about science." The scientist replied without giving Gen so much a glance. "When we send electricity through the crystal plate, it shakes at a ridiculously consistent tempo. And electrical waves are made from that magically beautiful crystal's super consistent shaking. We make a sandwich out of two plates! Then, the electron beam that passes through the gap curves beautifully…"
Something amazing expected to happen and it did–the previously small and unmoving dot turned into a straight line, clearly seen on the fluorescent paint.
"The dot is going left to right…!" Kohaku, who had a superhuman eyesight could probably see the movement, gasped in awe.
"It finally moved and became a perfect line!" Suika added, also amazed with just a little additional adjustment could produce such drastic outcome.
"Whoa! I don't get it, but is this crystal a TV?" Mirai asked, tugging onto Ukyo and Shinko's arm excitedly.
Shinko giggled and patted her the little girl's head, "Senku-san did say it works the same as old TVs."
"The final touch is a longitudinal curve," Again, said scientist referred to some element they couldn't comprehend. He rearranged the set-up and hooking it to other components. "Once we hook up the radio antenna to the longitudinal sandwich from before…"
After Senku was finished with his addition, the former straight line moved–forming various size of curves and dips in a constant speed. Everyone did gasp in awe and amazement from the apparent change whilst Ukyo stood frozen on his feet.
At the moment he was lost for words–it would be impossible not to. Ukyo instantly recognized the device yet his mind had the most difficult time comprehending its existence–he almost believed himself to hallucinate this event.
Before this life, it's always there in front of his eyes, hours of everyday. For a brief second, he was back–sitting in a dim-lit space, multiple glowing screens and equipment with various switches. He could feel the phantom fabric of his uniform clinging onto his skin, the slight additional weight of connected headpiece against his ears, the familiar silence as he waited for the tiniest sound to present itself.
"Ukyo-san," Shinko's call brought him back to reality–her hand grabbing his upper arm. Diverting his eyes to her, Ukyo clearly saw excitement dancing in it–maybe it even rivaled his own. He replied with a grin so wide he felt his cheeks strained.
"Yeah, that's it. This is…" He found himself laughing breathlessly when he accepted that this was indeed as real as it could be. "Wouldn't it be awful for me, the sonarman, if I'm not the first one to recognize this?"
Being able to see invisible enemies. The eyes of science.
"IT'S A RADAR!" Ryusui shouted, snapping his fingers.
.
.
Acquiring radar meant they could finally detect the unseen. Senku moved fast–he immediately attached the radar to their motorboat even adding more gear to it. Changing the antenna at the access point to a mic, they also got sonar on the lower side of the boat. GPS, radar, and sonar–their boat was fully equipped and turned into proper science vessel. All of them were crucial components for their ship, this was just a small example of it.
After making sure the gears properly functioned and safely attached to the boat, their abruptly halted journey out on the open sea finally continued. Except with less member this time.
"I don't think I should go this time." Shinko informed him, placing fishing net into the cargo and arranged until it could fit the tight space.
There was supposed to be a continuation of those statement–however, he felt no need to push her. Ukyo fell silent as he did his own share of work preparing the boat. It was hard for him to come up with a reply–especially when the young woman already knew what exactly he intended to say. She definitely didn't need a repetition or him emphasizing.
"…It's safer for you to stay." It's not the safest answer but Ukyo decided to go with it.
"I know."
Rather heavy silence between them was something the young man learned to dislike–it's rare and even so, Ukyo didn't like it.
"We need room for our haul anyway."
The voice made itself known from its nonchalant manner. Although the sonarman already took a notice of his presence from the particular footsteps, he still turned to look at Senku over his shoulder. From the corner of his eyes, Ukyo knew Shinko did the same.
"We're taking some souvenir along the way, that's why we bring the net along." Cackling mischievously, Senku continued. "We gotta test the sonar and radar and catching fresh food for a trial run. It's hitting two birds with one stone!"
"You're this eager to kick me out, aren't you, Senku-san…" Shinko joked, laughing nervously. Fortunately, it sounded light and Ukyo could sigh in relief.
"That doesn't mean you're on vacation, Huntress." Pulling out several rolls of paper, he approached said young woman and dumped it all on her hands. A lot of them and probably more than Ukyo has ever seen Shinko got a hold onto. "You're holding the fort until we're back. Don't forget to count all the used ones, list the unused ones, and check the conditions."
Humming in understanding, she stacked the papers into a neater one and rolled them together. "Of course."
"And make sure no one is slacking off."
"I think no one would dare to."
Pleased with her acceptance, Senku throw a gaze at Ukyo–which caught said young man off guard, knowing how solemn it was. "Let's go."
"Take care and be careful." Shinko already beat him to it whilst he waited for Ryusui, Chrome, and Gen to be comfortable with their designated seats. It didn't matter where his position would be anyway, Ukyo just wanted to have a little moment longer.
Initially, he thought about staying behind, of course knowing there's possibility Senku understood the basics about radar and sonar. Unfortunately, the only sonar expert around was him and his judgement was critical to develop a more advanced gear. There's no time for him to be selfish–their future voyage needed the most accurate and functional equipment as possible so it wouldn't cost them their life.
Not once the scientist confronted him about this matter–Ukyo assumed Senku already understood his way of thinking and the choice he picked in the end.
His feet felt heavy as if understanding how reluctant he was leaving Shinko. However, the fingers intertwined with his became a push. Throwing him a smile, Shinko tightened her grip slightly which he returned automatically. "It's not that long."
"Yeah, I know." Feeling a little bit lighter, Ukyo nodded. He brought their intertwined hands closed to his chest–feeling the steady thrummed of his heartbeat revibrated. "I'll be going."
"Have a safe trip."
He wouldn't be long–unlike the previous journey searching for Sagara Oil Field that stretched up for days, he would be returning just in a matter of hours. Besides, Shinko wouldn't be alone–the girls always watch out for her in his stead, she's in good hands. The sooner he went, the sooner he would be back.
Soon, they departed indeed–of course with Chrome's excitedly bidding her goodbye, Ryusui shouted that they wouldn't be long, Gen waved at her, and Senku gave her a final nod. Ukyo felt relief none of them decided to brought anything up–they all shared the same sentiment of trying to keep her from dwelling in guilt.
Greeneries and the scent of forest soon changed into endless blue and the lingering smell of and sun. Just like before, in an instant, they're already marching out to the open sea and keep on going. So far, everything went peacefully normal–no sudden super strong radio waves, not even an abnormal crackle from their phone after they turned on the power on.
The easiest way to check how the sonar works would be sending sound waves through the mic beneath the boat. The waves bounced back and the results of whatever object of disturbance would be shown in the radar–which was why Ukyo was ready with a tuning fork in hand.
While his in the middle of clacking the fork to make sound waves, he felt quite a nudge pressing down on his temple. Ukyo looked up, noticing Senku giving him a subtle glance went unnoticed by the rest of the passengers.
The scientist said nothing. Fortunately, Ukyo knew what he's asking through the stare.
"Shinko is alright." He remarked, giving the scientist a smile briefly before continue to focused on his duty. "After knowing everyone is fine, she calmed down. I bet the girls look out for her and your distraction also help."
Shrugging his shoulder in a lazy manner, Senku replied. "No one's used to watch over the construction, assigning new guy who knows nothing is a pain anyway."
"Or because she's your most trusted assistant?"
"Take it as you like."
Ukyo couldn't help but smile at the statement–he was glad that many people cared for Shinko.