Darling in the Franxx: Alternate Core

by StrikeForceHeroeTeller

In a world where most of humanity is no longer what it was, how valuable are the values of the Old? Unknown to APE, a secret elite group of scientist and military broke off from their doctrine and founded the 'Restoration Front'. Their goal? To restore their home under the values of true humanity. What will happen when their pilots cross paths with Squad 13? Pray for answer...

9. Chapter 9

Darling in the Franxx: Alternate Core

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Chapter 9: Rescue and goodwill: Delphinium's trial.

Chapter 9! This will involve the introduction of two OC's that I was given permission to use by the talented hand of Xelku9! Go check him on deviantart! His AU of DitF is one of the reasons I was inspired to write mine! It will also introduce the mysterious klaxosaur from last chapter and reveal MANY things to Squad 13 both about their mentors and about the enemy they had been told so many times about...

On with the show!

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Practice yard between the Cerasus and the Oletros. 1 week and 3 days after the match...

Delphinium: - Are you sure this is something we are ready for? -

Arthur: - In my opinion, after seeing the progress you had made, I think it was about time you received this. It will increase your effectiveness by a lot. -

Argentea: - Oh man! I can't wait to use them! -

Arthur: - Obviously, don't let it get over your head or you will be digging your way to the grave very easily. -

Argentea: - Um... sure... -

Today was the day that Squad 13 would receive and test their new PA and Zandatsu modules. The idea of having a self-regenerating shield that can absorb most klaxosaur projectiles and some of the trauma force behind their melee attacks meant that they were excited about it. However, as Orion said, abusing both systems are one of the most common mistakes rookie pilots perform in their careers so they were going to receive proper mentorship about it...

They were all waiting for the package with the modules to arrive and soon enough, the same helicopter that transported their mentors appeared from the Oletros' hangars carrying a package that looked like one of the service stations they had used at the Reaper battle. The helicopter soon lowered it into the ground and returned while Skylark set it up. It soon opened up and showed a similar service station.

Arthur: - Alright, just like before, one franxx at a time will step on the station and let the machine do the work, okay? Who goes first? -

Strelizia spoke: - I think it is fair that our leader gets hers first. -

Everyone was surprised at her, Strelizia looking out for somebody else instead of her for once?

Delphinium: - Uh... thank you! After me, you can go next. -

Wow, it seems that miracles could be worked after all. Before anyone else said anything else, Delphinium walked towards the station and stood still as it activated its scanners...

Station A.I: - Subject identified. Auxiliary Delphinium... starting installation of PA and Zandatsu modules... -

The machine sprang to life as many robotic multi-tool arms started to appear and carefully work around Delphinium's frame and 'Envy Shop' weapons. Everyone saw that the machine installed circular ring pieces that shined of white and blue colors similar to Delphinium's on her weapons while a blue gemstone was set on the center of her head-crest alongside a cyan blue mask that covered her mouth. Both modules shined as they were installed and synchronized with her system. Eventually, the machine was done after adding one final touch...

Station A.I: - Installation complete... -

At that moment, the modules stopped shining and Delphinium's mask receded into the lower parts of her chin.

Chlorophytum: - How are you feeling guys? -

Delphinium: - To be fair, nothing much has changed... -

Arthur: - We're about to correct that... okey, the PA needs manual activation so concentrate and think about a force field surrounding your franxx to do so. The system will do the rest... -

Delphinium's pilots focused and as they did, everyone around them saw that golden particles appear little by little until they became continuously shifting around the mech. Eventually, the shield vanished.

Argentea: - Um... is it supposed to do that? -

Arthur: - Yes, the shield only becomes visible when it takes damage or when its restarting. -

Genista: - Restarting? -

Arthur: - The shield will NOT always stay active. It can be 'broken' if it takes too much damage and you will need to do this everytime it happens which consumes time and makes it dangerous in the battlefield. What we usually do when this happens or if is about to, is to usually step out of combat and let the system automatically restart it. As we said before, it regenerates itself but it takes time to do so until it reaches full capacity. There are some modifications that can be done though. -

Eventually, Delphinium soon said: - Ok, I'm done. Now... wait, what is this? -

She was pointing at a particular symbol that was added to her chest, one everyone was now familiar with...

Orion: - Even if you're still under APE jurisdiction... my squad has agreed that we already consider you all as part of our own. So wear it with pride kids. -

It was the SMC logo, with an 'A' added in front and the message brought a smile on everyone after hearing it.

Delphinium: - Thanks sensei, what's the 'A' for though? -

White Glint: - It is short for the word 'Auxiliary'. We use them on rescued APE pilots while they go through trials and tests before they are allowed to fully serve independently with our forces. Anyways... Strelizia, you're up next. -

Delphinium stepped aside as the ace franxx eagerly stepped into the machine. Soon enough, the process started anew with the difference being that one of her modules was set as a crimson red plate around the base of her horn and the that the circular ring piece set on her 'Queen Pike' weapon was golden with red highlights. There was also an extra module installed in the front of her shield with the form of the SMC logo. She soon repeated the process to activate hers before saying: - Hum, it isn't that hard... also, nice touch with the one on the shield. -

Skylark: - You're welcome, we were in charge of adding them. -

Strelizia simply shrugged before stepping off as Argentea took her place.

Argentea: - My turn! -

Argentea's modules were in the form of a pair of retractable lens that were located on each side of her face. (MGRR Raiden lenses FTW bois!) Her gauntlets were now equipped with the white and pink rings, each with the SMC logo inscribed on them as if they were buckles for each one. Once she was done with her synchronization, everyone could tell they were amazed with the new gadgets.

Argentea: - This is cool! How do I look with these? -

At that moment, the lenses unfolded and set in front of her, revealing they were a key lime color (I hate the fact that I need to name what sort of color is it...) and to be honest, they looked very cool.

Johnny: - They look rad kid... -

Everybody else simply gave her a thumbs up as next one in line was Chlorophytum. Her modules were installed in the form two additional purple gemstones installed on her arms, 2 purple rings in each leg and a golden ring at the tip of her head antennae that had a SMC 'hairclip'.

Naomi: - They look good on your franxx Ikuno! -

Chlorophytum: - Thank you Naomi... -

Finally, Genista was the last one and hers was a black visor that deployed from her helmet while her Zandatsu module manifested in the form a of a green ring on the stock of her cannon 'Rook Sparrow'. Once she was done, Arthur shut off the station and made it re-pack itself. Her SMC auxiliary logo was printed in the helmet.

Arthur: - Alright! Now that everyone officially has their PA, I think is time we tell you that each one has unique abilities and modifications according to your roles. -

Mitsuru: - Really? For example? -

Arthur: - I will start with the easiest and that is Delphinium's. Delphinium, your PA module not only gives you a shield but it also expels an aura. -

Delphinium: - A what? -

Arthur: - Let me show you, can your squadmates stay close to you for now? -

Squad 13 did so and once they were close enough to her, Arthur then said: - Okay, stamens, there should be a new indicator line on the paracapacitator screen that reads 'PA system link', do you see it? -

Stamens: - We do! -

Arthur: - Good, select it and click 'finalize'... -

They did so and soon enough, the HUD changed its format to accomodate the new system on the readings in both the cabin and paracapacitator HUD.

Goro: - Well, something did change! -

Arthur: - Good, then everything is in order! From this point on, you can read the status of your PA, alongside the status of your Franxx and other stuff that you will learn on the way. Right now though, let's focus on Delphinium's. Goro, Ichigo, do you see an option that says 'activate aura'? -

Both: - We do! -

Arthur: - Activate it! Everybody else, close attention to the PA and unit status! -

As soon as Delphinium activated it, everyone saw her gemstone shine and then became surprised when everyone's PA's went above the maximum limit! Not only that, but everyone felt a rush of sudden welfare on themselves!

Argentea: - Woah! What is this? -

Arthur: - That's Delphinium's unique ability! Being the leader of the group, she is the one responsible to make sure the whole squad keeps fighting so we fit her with an aura resonator that allows allies PA's and statistics to become much better temporarily. It also enhances Delphinium's own stats but in a permanent basis. -

Delphinium: - Wow, that's very helpful actually! I see how it works, it rewards everyone for working close and together! This could be very useful when teaming up against big klaxosaurs! -

Arthur: - Correct! You're getting the hand of this! -

Strelizia: - Alright, so what does mine do sensei? -

Arthur: - You're gonna like yours... I have seen some combat footage of yours and seeing as you like to take lots of hits, I decided you needed an extra. The module on your shield absorbs part of the force received and lets it accumulate until it is used or it reaches the limit. -

Strelizia: - Until it is used? -

Arthur: - Here, let Hotsteel give you a demostration... Hotsteel! -

Hotsteel: - SMASH! -

Strelizia was surprised that Hotsteel went charging at her and put her shield on guard! A Blam! was heard as she sled off from the force of the punch, her shield taking the blow...

Delphinium: - Are you crazy!? What was that?! -

Arthur: - The demo! Look at her shield now! -

Everyone did so and were surprised to see it glowing! Strelizia soon had an idea on what it could be used for. She activated her thrusters and rushed towards Hotsteel, whom activated his barrier beams just as she connected her shield against him. A big Boom! was heard as it was Hotsteel's turn to sled away from her as Strelizia's shield released a shockwave!

Hotsteel: - Hoho! Now that is a good punch! -

Strelizia: - Thank you! -

Atrhur: - Alright, both of you back in line. As you just saw, Strelizia's shield can now use the energy built to either return big hits towards their attackers, or use that energy to restore her own PA or an ally's PA. For that you just need to touch one of your teammates with the shield gently. -

Strelizia: - And to receive it myself? -

Arthur: - Bang your lance over it. It will transfer it through it... -

Strelizia: - Sounds good, a way ot benefit everyone or myself from my role... -

Argentea: - Now me, now me! What does mine do?! -

Arthur: - Hmmm... I don't know if you are gonna like it apart from making you look cool, but your new lenses have multiple visual properties alongside an advanced scanner that allows you to identify weak spots on whatever enemy you stumble upon and share that information automatically with the rest of your teammates. -

Argentea: - That's it? Only those features? -

Arthur: - Sorry kids, but your Franxx is already an excellent scout unit. We just gave you an extra set of tools to exploit it and share with your teammates... -

Zorome: - Oh come on! Couldn't you have given us something better? -

Argentea: - Stop that idiot! As they told Raven once, "beggars can't be choosers". We'll have to settle with this. Thank you sensei. -

Zorome: *Grumbles*

Arthur: "These two remind me of Johnny and Molly and that's uncanny..."

Sally: "Tell me about it..."

Chlorophytum: - So, what does mine do, sensei? -

Arthur: - We have given you two, the gemstones on your arms allow your guns to fuse into one which gives them higher firepower and range at the cost of firing rate. The one ring at your antennae works as a radar and advanced fire control system, a very useful one that, if worked alongside Argentea's scouting, you would be able to shoot down any klaxosaur the moment it appears nearby. -

Chlorophytum: - Really? How would the fusion thing work? -

Arthur: - Hold both of your arms on its weapon-form close to each other... -

She did so and soon saw as the gemstones shined and then the arms basically stuck to each other and the two cannons became one. Chlorophytum then did a firing test and shoot towards one of the nearby mountains. The projectiles that came out were potent and more explosive.

Chlorophytum: - Nice... so how do I separate them again? -

As she said that, the gemstones stopped shining and the guns separated...

Arthur: - You just found out how... the fire control system will allow you to predict more complex movements so that you can aim better. -

Chlorophytum: - Thank you sensei... -

Arthur: - And finally Genista. Your visor has also another fire control system that allows you to predict the trajectory of your projectiles alongside their impact zone and blast radius while also increasing the precision and penetration capabilities of your cannon. It also allows you to predict incoming projectiles so use it to warn your squadmates. -

Genista: - Understood sensei. -

Arthur: - Good, now that we have learned about your new defensive attributes, let's continue with the Zandatsu modules. Do you kids remember when Flamenco cut off that Reaper's arm by swinging his blade like a blur? -

Zorome: - Oh yeah! It was awesome when he... wait, is that what we are going to learn?! -

Arthur: - You're correct! That's what those ring modules in your weapons are for! Before each of you test them however, it is important that you know the basics. The Zandatsu system basically allows any linked mech to them to reach unprecedented speeds in a short period of time, useful to cut vital armored parts on klaxosaurs so that the core is exposed and then retrieved or destroyed. -

Delphinium: - Retrieved? -

Arthur: - That's something that only applies to SMC units. Will explain it later. Anyways, because of the high amount of energy needed to reach such incredible speeds, the Zandatsu modules have a separate energy battery that is not linked to the main frame, otherwise it would drain your fuel faster than I finish speaking these words. -

Strelizia: - If it consumes energy that fast, then for how long can it hold? -

Arthur: - Now that's complicated. I will be sincere with you, high-tier pilots like us, Flamenco or White Glint have a different source of energy that allows us to hold it longer than magma energy. I can't disclose the name of that energy source but I will tell you that, at best, without extension modules we can hold at least 2 minutes. -

Squad 13: "2 minutes of unlimited slashes?! That's quite nice!"

Arthur: - However, in Magma energy units, mostly from our auxiliaries, at best you get 30 seconds... -

Squad 13: "It isn't that bad..."

Chlorophytum: - And is there a way to refill it? You said that it has its own battery so what happens once it runs out? -

Arthur: - Nothing much, you simply can't access Zandatsu mode until it has the minimum required for 5 seconds. And yes, there is a way to refill it... for that White Glint will give us a demostration. Skylark, set the package into dummy mode... -

As White Glint prepared himself, Skylark touched some buttons on the service stations that changed its configuration and soon deployed a couple of holograms, one resembling an standard franxx while the other was that of a conrad klaxosaur that looked like a crab. The children saw with amazement as the holograms materialized and seemed to become real.

Delphinium: - How many more times are you going to surprise us with your technology? -

Andromeda: - Trust us, you're just barely scratching the tip of the iceberg... -

Delphinium: - The what now? -

Andromeda: - Right... forgot that you don't know about... -

Delphinium: - No, we know what an iceberg is... is just about what the phrase means... *Andromeda sends her a picture of an iceberg* wait... Oh! I see... -

Caramel: - Well, seems that Raven is doing a good work oiling your brain... -

Argentea: - Oi! -

White Glint: - Don't start guys... -

Skylark: - Are you ready White Glint? -

White Glint: - Ready... -

He pulled out a handle that when it activated it was revealed to be a white laser blade.

Argentea: - Woah! You never told us you also had a sword! -

White Glint: - Is because I didn't need it till now... -

Arthur: - So, finally excited to use Zandatsu for the first time Raven? -

Naomi: - Wait, what? I thought you already knew how to use it! -

Raven: - Yeaaaaah... I forgot to tell you that Zandatsu is disabled with solo-piloting... and since I have been solo since I rode White Glint. -

Argentea: - Wait, you're telling us that this whole time you never used it?! -

Raven: - Nope... -

Argentea: - Raven, how in Papa's name did you manage to become that powerful then? -

Arthur: - Training and determination. We know his journey because we were alongside him most of the time. -

Delphinium: - So you two actually go way back then? -

Arthur: - Yep, anyways, Naomi, Raven, start when you're ready. -

White Glint thumbs-ed up before standing in front of the Conrad hologram...

Raven: - Okay, you ready Naomi? -

Naomi: - How do we exactly start it? -

Raven: - A trick I was told about for first timers is to look attentively at our objective... close our eyes, try to picture it on our minds... and then open them after 3 seconds... -

Naomi: - Alright... we can do this Raven. I can fly now thanks to you, and I won't let anything ground us again... -

Raven: - Neither will I... -

Both of them then looked attentively as the Conrad stood still and in synchrony closed their eyes. The neural link between the two allowed them to picture their target together...

1...

Raven's memories about swordsmanship flowed into Naomi, as she saw his younger version self training alongside a younger Orion and Sally and an adult whose face was blank for now...

2...

Raven let his memories flow into Naomi, trying his best to teach her the basics of sword fighting. However, seeing once again the face of the one man who opened him the door to life brought a tear on his eye...

3...

Both opened their eyes and when they did, they saw everything around White Glint go into a slow blur. They had done it! Without hesitation, they grabbed the blade and swinged it horizontally. The cut got done and soon changed their posture and made the second one diagonally upwards, then the 3rd downwards, followed by the fourth, the fifth, the sixth, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 and more!

Eventually, the energy of the module ran out and Zandatsu mode ended... once it did, everything went back to normal and the hologram in front of them was soon split in so many fragments that any more would have turn them into dust. As they regained their senses, everybody else was looking at them impressed.

Arthur: - Wow man, if we knew that having a Pistil would give you this boost of power, we would have done this long ago! -

Raven: - Man... I never felt this... alive before! -

Naomi: - It surely is... kind of fun... no wonder you make easy work of many klaxosaurs. -

Arthur: - It is more than that than just slashing at them very fast, ok? But that is for advanced lessons, right now is the basics. So as you just saw, that's how Zandatsu works. Now, you will notice on your HUD's a new bar that says ZKE. It translates into 'Zandatsu Kinetic Energy' and it has mulitple bars that indicate their levels. The minimum level to use it is at the very left of the whole bar, and to fill it up, you need kinetic energy. How do you get it? Simple, White Glint, start attacking the franxx model. -

White Glint: - Alright... -

He soon did so, showing quite the ability with the sword making lots of precise and swift one-handed combos on the hologram. As he did so, everyone saw that the ZKE bar was leveling up until it soon reached the maximum limit.

Arthur: - Alright, you can stop. As you just saw, the ZKE charges up the more you use your melee weapons. Even if it sounds that you can easily get ZKE just with a few swings, take into account that many of your enemies are always moving and can retaliate back if you stay in Zandatsu mode for too long. So monitor your ZKE very wisely! Use it when the klaxosaurs leave an opening you can exploit to deliver insane amounts of damage or if you're lucky, to deliver the finishing blow! -

Squad 13: - Hai! -

Arthur: - Good, now let's test individually each of them. Delphinium, as the leader you will set the example and go first. -

Delphinium: - Understood... any tips about how to use it White Glint? -

White Glint: - Well, there's this one that just worked for us. Look attentively at your objective... close your eyes, try to picture it on your minds... and then open them after 3 seconds. -

Delphinium: - Alright, thank you! -

She went towards the Conrad and after a little while, she entered the process for her 'Zandatsu' mode... but nothing happened as she tried to slash.

Delphinium: - Huh? -

Arthur: - Mmh, weird. Try again... -

Delphinium did so... but again the same results.

Delphinium: - What's going on? -

Skylark: - Hmmm, apparently, your bond is not deep enough. -

Delphinium: - What? -

Skylark: - In order to fully access the power behind the Zandatsu path, two souls have to act and unite as one first. Your bond is powerful enough to reach the limits of your Franxx, but not enough to go over them... -

Delphinium's pilots were confused at this: their bond was good enough to pilot but not enough for Zandatsu? What exactly is that they lack? Their thoughts were interrupted as Arthur soon said: - We can later seek solutions for this but for now, its about testing who can and who can't. Who's next? -

Strelizia: - Can I try? I'm pretty sure me and my darling can do it. -

White Glint: - You need to learn about phrasing because that sounded cruel. -

Strelizia: - *in a mocking tone* Sorry... -

She soon stepped towards the hologram as Delphinium stood back and started the process to access it... but it was swiftly stopped as she suddenly lunged into the hologram and shattered it with an attack from her lance.

Arthur: - Yo! Calm down! The hologram is not a real klaxosaur, what's gotten into you? -

Hiro: *Strained voice* - Sorry... I just got... distracted... -

Raven: - Hiro, you good? You don't sound... -

Hiro: - I'm fine! I'm fine! I just, got a headache, okay? Is not big deal, I just got distracted by it... -

Raven: - You sure? You can take the pain of a big blunt attack of a Gutenberg head on but not that of a headache? -

Strelizia: - Leave it be. Darling said he just got distracted and that's enough. -

Everyone noticed the change on her tone becoming serious for a moment...

Sally: "This... this is one of the symptons of memory suppression resurgence, Orion."

Orion: "I know, I will take note of this later for the personal sessions."

Sally: "Should we talk about this with the rest of the children?"

Orion: "No, not yet... except certain two..."

Arthur: - Seems that you aren't capable for Zandatsu neither for now. We'll try later with you... next! -

Argentea: - My turn, my turn! -

She soon went towards the hologram but soon proved she couldn't either...

Argentea: - Oh come on! -

White Glint: - Maybe if you try to be more patient and take it slowly... -

Zorome: - Ok, ok... -

Both pilots took a deep breath and tried very hard. As a matter of fact, they soon felt the rush!

Argentea: - Yes! We got it! -

Unfortunately it was lost...

Argentea: - Oh COME ON! -

Arthur: - Well, you were the closest out of everyone at least. Next please! -

The pink franxx left fuming as Chlorophytum took her place. It too ended with the same result. Genista soon followed and it too ended the same.

Firefox: - Now this is odd, White Glint managed to enter into Zandatsu mode with Naomi flawlessly and those two have technically the shortest time together. How is that the rest of his friends didn't managed to do the same? -

Lance: - In order to soar through the limits, they need to face first the barriers. Only then, they will unleash themselves. -

Strelizia: "This dude creeps me out every time he talks..."

Delphinium: - But how? What is it that we're missing? -

Naomi: - Probably a resolve... -

Squad 13: - Huh? -

Naomi:- While I was healing and learning of the SMC and the RF... Raven told me that life for rescued Parasites can become complex for they face many things they have never faced before that wasn't fighting for once. He said that to focus on life and move on, to improve ourselves we need to find a resolve: a purpose for ourselves rather than wait for someone else to give it to us. His resolve is to fight on to honor his mentor's teachings and memories, alongside those he had with us at the Garden. It kept him going after all those years he was away... and when I was rescued by him, I created mine: my resolve was to continue the fight for a chance to see you again, and now that I had accomplished that, I now fight so that I would never be separated from you nor him again. -

Everyone's heart was touched by her words...

Chlorophytum: - So all we need is to make our own resolve? - "How will I be able to do it when I secretly like you but you're unaware of it?"

Argentea: - That's simple! We all want to fight for Papa, so that we don't disappoint him! -

It was the first time Squad 13 saw the whole of Atlas make a facepalm in unison, and it wouldn't be the last...

Joshua: - Not that sort of resolve, idiot. -

Raven: - Zorome, that's something that is expected of you. It's not a resolve, is your duty. A resolve has to be more personal, something that you and only you and the closest people to you will know about and maybe lend you a hand into it to complete it. Let's call it like "the one thing that Papa doesn't need but you do". -

Zorome: - But why would I? -

Raven: - Consider it as something to prove yourself you're better than before. The hardest trials out there are those that challenge what you are and what you will become... it doesn't make sense for you now, but trust me, sooner or later you're gonna be facing them. -

He had no idea of how profetic his statement was...

Arthur: - Well, considering that everyone still isn't able to use the Zandatsu mode, I say that we resume with our usual... -

At that moment the alarms on the 'Oletros' started sounding and soon enough a communication was heard from Douglas: - Captain Orion, cancel the training session of today and report back towards hangar 5 of the 'Oletros' alongside your squadron. An urgent operation has emerged. -

Arthur: - Roger, sorry kids but something out there is happening and we have to do our duty. -

Douglas: - Tell commander Hachi to link up their comms, this involves them too... -

Arthur: - Uh, now that's a surprise. Alright everyone, back into the hangars! -

Some minutes later...

Orion: - So what is going on? -

Both squads were in their respective hangars, however they weren't given the order to disembark, meaning they were there just to rearm and refuel before they sortied for real.

Douglas: - Approximately 15 minutes ago we have discovered a distress signal coming from the mountain ranges north of our position by 5 km. The signal is being emitted automatically in different frequencies, as if whoever activated it did so out of desperation. One of the original frequencies belongs to those used by APE. -

Ichigo: - So that means that it is an APE unit that is in trouble? -

Hachi: - Correct and after searching the logs, we have identified the source: plantation 17. Deciphering of their radio broadcasts have revealed that the plantation has been attacked by klaxosaurs hours ago. After discussing it with admiral Dassia, it has been decided this mission will be a joint operation. Your objective will be to link up with the plantation, see if there are survivors and eradicate all klaxosaurs that are nearby. -

Ichigo: - Understood! -

Orion: - Roger! -

SMC maintenance chief: - Atlas squad is ready to go! -

Nana: - Squad 13 is ready for deployment. -

Douglas: - Very good. Everyone, because of his experience in rescue operations it has been decided that Orion will have field command for this mission. -

Squad 13: - Roger! -

Arthur: - Very well, squad 13 and Atlas squad, ON ME! -

Both squads soon left the hangars and went gliding through the plains. The closer they got to the zone of operations the more the terrain changed from being desertic flat into rocky hills. Soon enough, they saw smoke coming from one of the hills.

Arthur: - Skylark, Andromeda and Argentea. Move up and see what you find. If you see klaxos, do not engage until the rest of us arrives. -

Skylark, Andromeda and Argentea: - Roger... -

The three soon went ahead leaving behind everyone else. While on transit, Ichigo thought about what Naomi just said before: "...and when I was rescued by him, I created mine: my resolve was to continue the fight for a chance to see you again, and now that I had accomplished that, I now fight so that I would never be separated from you nor him again."

Ichigo: "What could mine be about that isn't related to my duties?"

She thought first about something obvious and the first thing that came to her head was her crush on Hiro. That made sense... but she saw how happy he was with Zero Two and after her promise with her to try to get to know each other better, she was now in a dilemma: herself or her?

Goro: - You seem tense, are you alright? -

She decided to settle that for later, even if Orion was in command, she was still needed to lead her friends and she couldn't be indecisive right now.

Ichigo: - I'm fine... just thinking about what Naomi said earlier... is it truly her bond deeper than ours is? -

Goro: - Seems to be... she is a lot different now to what she was before. Both after Raven disappeared from the Garden and after she failed to synchronize with Hiro. It seems being with Raven has brought something she wasn't before back into her. -

Ichigo thought about it and found a similarity on that: after Raven went missing, both Hiro and Naomi weren't the same. Could it be that he was somehow linked to what changed them that 'bad week' on the Garden many years ago? She may have something now that could help with her resolve...

Ichigo: - Hey Goro? -

Goro: - What? -

Ichigo: - I never thought about this before for a long time... but you think that Raven has something to do with that 'bad week'? -

Goro was surprised: - Ichigo, that's something we haven't touched in years! -

Ichigo: - I know but as you just said, it seems Naomi is now someone who wasn't for a long time, just like it happened to Hiro. -

Goro: - Hmmmmm... you're right, you think that something happened between the three? -

Ichigo: - It's a suspicion for now but considering this would be the first hint after many years... I think I will try to use it. -

Goro stood silent and soon said: - Well, if you're going to, don't leave me out of this. -

Ichigo: - Goro? -

Goro: - Hiro is my friend too, and seeing him go through this sort of 'revival' of his with Zero Two, it makes me happy for him. Is like the Hiro we knew from the Garden never left... -

Ichigo understood that feeling, it was hard to believe someone like Hiro had become a shadow of his former self duting all those years. She soon found herself feeling a sensation of personal achievement. She and Goro were going to uncover that mystery once and for all.

Ichigo: - Then how about this? We will make our resolve to help our friends in ours squad in as many ways as we can, either by helping them with some of their secrets and their problems or uncovering some things we missed in the past. -

Goro: - Isn't that your role as a leader? That's what Orion says always. -

Ichigo: - Yes it is... but I want to help them more not because of duty, but because they're my friends. And I promised Zero Two I would try to know her better and I'll be sincere, if you are there with me, it will be easier to cope with the... uneasiness she gives off. -

Goro chuckled before answering: - You know you can count on me for anything... -

Ichigo: - Thanks Goro... -

Unknown to both of them, they had laid the seeds of what would deepen their bond and it would became vital for their survival much earlier than anticipated.

Skylark: - Arthur, we have visual of the plantation... its an orange mess, you're needed here ASAP. -

Arthur: - Understood Skylark. Stay out of trouble. Everyone, lets pace it up! -

Everyone accelerated their mechs, soon arriving towards a hill were their friends were looking over. Once they reached the top, it was when they saw the carnage. Plantation 17 was destroyed, the city lights were off and flames could still be seen inside the smoldered remains of the golden city. The dome alongside many other places of the Plantation were non-existent and lots and lots of magma fuel was dispersed all around the area. It was very unlikely that anybody survived that...

Genista: - Oh no... -

Argentea: - By Papa... -

Strelizia: - Tch... -

Chlorophytum: - It can't be... -

Delphinium: - No... did we arrive too late? -

Arthur: - It seems to be... this is one of the awful realities of war kids, you can't save everyone... -

Squad 13 was depressed by this: how many lives were lost in this? Did at least some of the 1 million people living inside survived?

Arthur: - Commander Hachi, first officer Douglas, we have arrived at the destination. It is a wreck, there's a probability that it is ground zero, no signs of life. -

Hachi: - Understood, proceed to check the remains and try to link with the plantation commander if they are still alive. -

Douglas: - Keep your eyes open for survivors and trouble. -

Arthur: - Roger. -

Skylark: - The distress signal is still active and now kicking stronger, but its origin is away from the plantation... coming directly from the mountains... -

Delphinium: - Wait, that means someone may have survived. -

Firefox: - Could be, or could be not. Just don't get your hopes very high kids... -

Arthur: - We'll do what we can... Andromeda, I want you to fly up and search for the signal, alert us if you find any traces or a particular increase on it. -

Andromeda: - You got it. -

She started flying and going towards the mountains.

Arthur: - Atlas squad, patrol around the outskirts and alert us if you see or sense activity. -

Firefox, Caramel, Hotsteel and Skylark: - Roger. -

Arthur: - Squad 13, you're with me, we're going inside... -

Squad 13: - Understood... -

(Play 'Fallout 1 Soundtrack - Desert Wind (The Wasteland)')

As Atlas squad walked around the plantation outskirts, squad 13 went directly into the ruined city itself.

Arthur: - Everyone, use your scanners and set it to 'bio activity sensitivity', we need to find people to rescue alive... -

They all did so and set to work. However, they got more anxious the longer they searched around only for the readings to come as negative all the time. After a long time exploring, they all reunited nearby the entrance to the command center that had relatively minor damage.

Argentea: - Nothing so far, are you sure these googles are well calibrated sensei? -

Arthur: - So now you're going to blame the state of the art lenses? -

Argentea: - No! It's just... is impossible there's no one left alive! -

Arthur: - I understand your frustration kids but please have hope, there's still the command center to check... -

Standing in front of one of the walls that give direct access to it, after scanning and seeing no one in the other side, Arthur punched the well to make an opening and soon said: - Me and Sally are disembarking to investigate, please cover our backs. -

Strelizia: - Wait, how are you planning to get past the security systems and the doors? -

Orion: - We make our own paths... -

He said pointing to a backpack that he and Sally pulled out from a compartment as they opened the cabin and walked above Arthur's arm into the structure.

Strelizia: - Show offs... -

Delphinium: - So now you know how it feels... -

While they waited, both Orion and Sally were now taking the elevator towards the command center...

Sally: - Do you have an idea of what they were doing here? This place is one of the few areas that are off-limits to APE patrols because is way too dangerous for them. -

Orion: - No clue, and that's what bothers me. Let's hope that the consoles of the Plantation are still intact, it would give us valuable data. -

The elevator soon stopped and both stepped out when the doors opened. Walking through the intact corridors, they soon reached the access to the command center and it was in disrepair...

Orion: - Well that makes our job easier... -

They entered the room and soon saw it was mostly covered in debris and broken glass...

Sally: - Found them... -

They saw a hand sticking out of the fallen debris and Orion went to check it... no pulse.

Orion: - Nothing we can do for them. At least I hope their souls rest in peace. *proceeds to loot the id chip* -

Sally: - Kind of ironic that you do that, doesn't it? -

Orion: - Their sacrifice means more lives saved if we use their info correctly, now let's see what orders he had... -

As they hacked the terminal, outside the Parasites were reflecting about their experience so far... it was depressing to see what once was a great city now laying dead and in ruins and with no signs of the Parasites of Plantation 17, they started to fear something...

Genista: - Guys, what if whatever destroyed this plantation suddenly went for ours? -

Chlorophytum: - Commander Hachi would alert us and we would still have time to return to defend it. -

Genista: - Still, to think a plantation like ours ends up like this... -

Argentea: - How could the Parasites stationed here let it happen? -

Delphinium: - I don't know... -

Strelizia: - That's because they weren't here... -

Everyone: - Huh? -

Strelizia: - We haven't heard our mentors reporting destroyed Franxx's around the plantation nor in the surrounding terrain, meaning that the Parasites were somewhere else as the attack happened. -

Genista: - But where could have they been? -

Strelizia: - Beats me... -

Delphinium: - Hey guys, can I ask you all a favour? -

Everyone: - Umm? -

Delphinium: - It is depressing to see how a city filled with 1 million adults ends up when everything falls down. Can you imagine what will happen in a city with 50 millions? Like the ark? -

Everyone, including Zero Two, paled at that implication. It was already harsh to look at the ruins of Plantation 17 so they didn't want to imagine how horrible it would be with a city of 50 million. -

Genista: - It's horrifying to even think about it, Delphinium. -

Delphinium: - Which is why I want us to do our best. Our mentors will be in the frontlines facing against the strongest klaxosaurs to ever exist but in the case that a few manage to break through... let's all do our best to repel them. They believe in us and we will reward them with our efforts. Can I count on you for this guys? -

Genista: - I will try to do my best! -

Chlorophytum: - We will make sure it doesn't happen. -

Argentea: - I'm with you in this captain! -

Strelizia: - I'm in, I like how you're becoming more and more confident and bold. -

Delphinium smiled just as Arthur came back online...

Arthur: - We're back, did we miss anything? -

Delphinium: - Not much, just a promise between ourselves. What did you find? -

Whatever Arthur was about to say, they were interrupted as the radio came alive...

Andromeda: - Captain, I found traces of possible survivors, about 1 kilometer into the mountains, marking the location now. -

Arthur: - Understood! Okey everyone! Rendezvous at the location! -

Atlas squad: - Roger! -

Arthur: - Let's go kids... -

(Stop the track)

After a few minutes of gliding towards the point, everyone soon saw that Andromeda had landed near the entrance of a cave.

Andromeda: - The distress call is coming from here, and is strong enough that I finally deciphered it. -

Arthur: - Let's hear it. -

She soon played the audio clip: - Hello? Anyone? This is stamen code 345 alongside pistil code 467. We have been separated from our squad, squad 17. And... oh dear Papa... there was too many too handle... I think we're the only ones who managed to escape... we could still hear the roars and the screams... please, we need help! We're running low on energy and provisions... please, somebody!... -

White Glint: - BOTH OF THEM ARE STILL ALIVE!? -

Everyone was surprised at White Glint's outburst...

Arthur: - You know them?! -

Ikuno: - Not only them, me and Futoshi know them too! -

Futoshi: - We do? Wait, are they the red-haired boy alongside the dark skin girl back at the Garden?! -

White Glint and Ikuno: - They are! -

Futoshi: - We have to help them! They were our friends in our nursery! -

Arthur: - Very well, this makes just makes it easier to accomplish. Andromeda, you, Hotsteel and Firefox will stay here and guard the entrance, the rest of you follow me! Commander, we're entering a cave system to rescue a pair of Parasites, communication may be cut. -

Hachi: - Understood, be careful down there and extract the Parasites as soon as you can. -

Arthur: - Alright everyone, let's go! -

Leaving behind the three mentioned NEXTs, the platoon soon entered into the cave taking care with their steps as they moved deeper and deeper into the darkness. Soon enough, they reached and intersection.

Arthur: - Skylark, which direction? -

Skylark: - The signals are coming from the right and look at the ground... -

As everyone did so they saw a trail of magma fuel going towards the cave...

Arthur: - They should be nearby, a leak like that is bound to leave them dry very soon. Argentea, do your lenses and sensors detect anything? -

Argentea: - Nothing for now sensei. -

Arthur: - Good, we're in the clear for now, Argentea, Chlorophytum and Delphinium with me at the front, Skylark, Caramel, Strelizia and Genista, you cover our backs. -

Everyone: - Roger. -

They entered the cave and cautiously moved forward, making sure to follow the trail which grew thinner and thinner until it stopped... right in front of a standard model Franxx leaning on the wall.

Arthur: - Visual confirmed on the survivors. It seems that their franxx is disabled... -

He was shut up as the machine suddenly sprang to life with difficulty and used her damaged magma spear to keep herself standing. Soon enough, their HUDs received a video call from the survivors, and once they opened it, it showed a red-haired boy with deep blue eyes and freckles around his nose alongside his partner, a dark haired, brown skinned girl with cyan eyes...

(They are both the OC's of Xelku9. Thanks for lending them to me for this story man!)

Code 345: - You! Identify... yourselves... -

Delphinium: - Let me handle it... I'm Ichigo, code 015, leader of squad 13 stationed at plantation 13. We heard your distress call code 345... -

Code 345: - By Papa... It's, it's you! The legendary squad 13! You came for us...! *That was when he noticed the knight NEXT* Is... is that...? -

Arthur: - Greetings kid, captain Orion from Atlas squadron, commonly known as the 'White Knight' -

Code 345: - I can't believe it... so the rumours were true... -

Code 467: - They came... Ungh! -

Their franxx suddenly dropped to its knees, causing Genista and Chlorophytum to reach it.

Code 467: - Dammit... I'm getting tired... -

Futoshi: - Hang in there guys! It's us, code 196 and code 214! -

Code 467 and code 345 seemed to revive as they heard those numbers...

Code 467: - It's... really you guys? -

Code 345: - You're still alive! After all this time! -

They were interrupted as the franxx stumble again and an alarm was heard from its systems: - Magma fuel levels critical! Magma fuel levels critical! Life support system failure imminent! Please contact the nearest hangar for repairs and refuel. -

Arthur: - There's no time to waste guys. Genista, Chlorophytum, help the franxx stand and carry it between you two. The rest of us will cover you... -

Firefox: - Arthur! We have contacts at the entrance! Counting 25 bandits! You better hurry! -

Bullets and explosions were heard echoing through the cave as the 3 NEXTs engaged.

Arthur: - Dammit! Okey, let's get going! Commander Hachi, this is Arthur, we have... -

He suddenly stopped, then pulled out his sword and swiftly swung it upwards just as a klaxosaur fell on top of him!

Arthur: - AMBUSH! -

Just then, more klaxosaurs dropped from the ceiling! Argentea then got a notification within her lenses and saw that 3 of them were about to drop directly on top of Genista! She rushed towards them as she yelled: - DUCK! -

The three did so even as they were confused and Argentea leaped over them, her lenses indicating her to swipe both of her claws horizontally. She did so and was surprised to see her attack very effectively split the klaxosaurs! She then flipped and landed on her feet as the klaxosaurs dropped dead over her friends, now out of danger.

Zorome: - Woah! Okay, I retract what I said about the lenses! -

The rest of the team was fighting off the rest of the ambushers, which seemed to be a dozen. Caramel and Strelizia were making short work of a group of 5 as 2 of them went for the bear NEXT only for her to do a surprising split punch that stunned both of them. She then grabbed one of the Conrads, hugging it close to her as she fired her super canon, letting the klaxosaur free and sending it against its buddy, both of them then flew towards the wall were they impacted hard enough to bury themselves into it. Then Strelizia used her lance to impale through the remaining 3 and then launched them towards the same wall. Meanwhile, Delphinium was busy with two klaxosaur that tried to team up on her only to be repelled each one by her blades as she spinned around in place, both klaxosaurs carrying too much momentum to stop and were cut down easily before she stopped and then plunged at their cores, shattering them. The final 5, seeing their numbers diminish, tried to get the damaged franxx only to be stopped by Arthur whom charged and sliced easily through two of them. The remaining 3 soon turned tail and ran away with Skylark following them close behind.

Code 345: - Woah... you managed to scare them off... -

Arthur: - You can thanks us later... we have to go now! On me! -

Everyone soon followed him as fast as they could, which wasn't a lot considering that they had to carefully carry the surviving franxx of plantation 17. They then heard Skylark said: - There's more klaxosaurs coming from the other cave! We need support! -

Arthur: - I'm on it! Delphinium! Take everybody else outside, we will be right behind you! Caramel, with me! -

Delphinium: - Understood! Let's go squad! -

Squad 13: - Roger! -

As they reached the intersection, they saw Skylark trying to contain a bigger pack coming from the opposite cave, with a few of them getting through and going for the rest. Delphinium blocked their way and made quick work of them as Arthur and Caramel rushed to help Skylark while Strelizia and Argentea covered Genista and Chlorophytum, swatting away any klaxosaur that attempted to get near the two.

Firefox: - There's more incoming! You better get out here or we will be overrun soon! -

Delphinium: - Damn, Strelizia, Argentea, go towards the entrance and help them, I will stay with everybody else. Be careful out there! -

Argentea: - Okay captain! -

Strelizia: - Sure! -

Both franxx rushed towards the exit where they saw Hotsteel plumming one klaxosaur after another as they rushed him while Firefox was on a nearby hill raining bullets and missiles into the incoming enemies alongside Andromeda's arrows and MOABs. Even with many falling to them, the attackers seemed to keep coming out of anywhere and would soon obstruct their only way out...

Firefox: - Until you finally show up! Where's the rest?! -

Argentea: - Soon coming out of the cave! You guys doing alright? -

Joshua: - If by alright you mean "barely holding the line" then yes we are! Red one! You and Hotsteel start punching and stabbing our way out! Pink one! With me, defend the entrance! -

Strelizia: - Alright! -

Hotsteel: - Finally! Time to unleash havoc! -

Argentea: - Really? You couldn't bother with learning our names at least? -

Firefox: - Gardening isn't his forte... but now I know how to punish him later... -

Joshua: - Ooooh... I like the way you say it... -

Argentea: - Eh? -

Ying: - SHUT IT YOU PERV! Ignore that kids! -

Strelizia and Hotsteel went wild, clearing the way just as Delphinium and the rest came out of the cave.

Hotsteel: - Way clear! -

Arthur: - Go now! We will be behind you! Caramel! Shoot at the roof! -

Firefox:- You heard the captain! Let's go! Hotsteel, carry the franxx! -

Hotsteel: - Like sack or like princess? -

Firefox: - Whatever works! -

Hotsteel settled with the bride style as everyone glided down the mountain just as an explosion was heard behind them. Delphinium looked behind to see Arthur, Skylark and Caramel rush out as the cave collapsed on itself and soon catched up to the rest.

Arthur: - Origin 1 to the Cerasus, mission complete! We have extracted the survivors and...! -

Douglas: - Don't celebrate yet captain! Lot's of signatures right in front of you! -

Arthur: - What do you mean right in front of... WOAH! -

He stopped alongside everyone else as they soon saw a WHOLE ARMY of klaxosaurs right in front of them! There were so many that they were even using the ruins to make space and there were also big ones too!

Arthur: - Dammit, we have to go around! Let's... -

Just as he looked back, he saw more klaxosaurs coming from the hills! Soon something became clear...

Andromeda: - We're surrounded captain... only a sea of blue everywhere... -

Arthur: - Dammit... Andromeda, I need you to fly towards the Oletros and... -

Genista suddenly saw a warning on her visor, a projectile was heading for the angel NEXT!

Genista: - Andromeda, look out! -

The warning came in time as Andromeda managed to maneuver just in time to avoid a big projectile from damaging her frame... unfortunately, it managed to hit one of the engines!

Andromeda: - Dammit! -

She soon deactivated it and glided down with the rest...

Andromeda: - How bad is it? -

Skylark: - A field repair won't do it. You're grounded. -

Andromeda: - Dammit... captain? -

Arthur was silent as the klaxosaur pack circled around the platoon, getting closer and closer...

Arthur: - Origin 1 to the Oletros. Any ideas? -

Douglas: - The only thing we can recommend you is to prepare yourselves. If you manage to move 1 kilometer south of your position, you will be in range for fire support. -

Arthur: - 1 kilometer... it's a long shot but the only one we got... -

He pulled out his sword and everyone else soon followed by preparing their weapons, as the pack circled closer and closer...

Code 467: - No... no... nonononono... not like this... not like this... -

Code 345: - It's happening again... just like with the mission... we're doomed... we're doomed! -

Hotsteel: - Hey, calm yourselves in there! We have faced worse odds than this! It will be a progulka po parku! -

White Glint: - Whenever you command it Orion. We will be behind you! -

Strelizia: - Alright, bring it on! -

Delphinium: - You really think we have a chance sensei? -

Arthur: - We won't know until we try... that's a fact. -

The klaxosaur were now within leaping distance, showing their fangs and growling hard at the NEXTs and franxxs... and then, just as the ones at the front stopped and prepared to pounce...

?: - STOP! *HOWLING ROAR!* -

To the surprise of everyone, the pack seemed to stop! They still growled but their posture had changed from pouncing to just staying in guard nearby them... and then, to add more surprise, they saw many of them pull away from them as it seemed they were allowing something to pass... and it soon became clear what it was...

Walking towards them was a big, as big as hotsteel, klaxosaur with lupine characteristics, all of its claws very sharp, with a long smooth tail that had 4 tips, one of them bigger than the rest and looking like a blade while the other 3 were smaller but still looked deadly. The most unique feature of the klaxosaur was that it had a singular white mark: three scratches that looked like a claw on his forehead...

Code 467: - It... it... it... it... its... -

Code 345: - No... nonononono, not him... not him! -

Futoshi:- Guys, what's wrong!? -

Code 467: - Its him! *She starts to panic* its him... the leader! The one who killed our squad! *Starts to sob* -

Code 345: *Panicking* - We're doomed, we're doomed, we're doomed, we're doomed! -

White Glint went towards them and SLAPPED them! Even with the damaged franxx, the two Parasites felt it.

Code 467 and 345: - OWWW! -

White Glint: - Keep it together! We're getting out of here ALIVE! If you continue to act like this then you will die by your own hand! So keep it together and calm down or I will do so myself! -

Both did calm down but the fear was still present in them, specially when the leader walked towards Arthur... and then sat.

Squad 13: - Wha... what? -

Then the biggest surprise came to them... it SPOKE!

Alpha: - Master... it's been a long time... -

Squad 13: - WHAT?! -

Delphinium: - IT TALKS?! -

Code 467 and 345: - Ma... ma... master? -

And to add fuel to the fire...

Arthur: - Wolfblade... old friend... -

And then both klaxosaur and NEXT HUGGED!

Squad 13: - WHAAAAAAAAAT?! -

Naomi: - ORION, WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON!? -

Raven: - Ow! My ears... -

Arthur didn't respond as he started scratching and rubbing Wolfblade alongside its chin and saying things an owner would tell to its dog: - Who's a good boy? Who's a good boy? Yes, you are, yes you are! - In response, the klaxosaur started scratching itself and even dropped and turned to receive belly rubs!

The children, including Zero Two, were BAFFLED. Here was their mentor, a veteran slayer of klaxosaurs, their worst enemy and the ones responsible for the destruction of Plantation 17, interacting with one as if it was a harmless creature! And for some reason, Atlas squadron was NOT even commenting anything!

Hotsteel: - Captain... can we pet the volk? -

He got his response in the form of a tail whip to his hand, courtesy of the 'volk'.

Hotsteel: - Ouch! Cyka blyat! -

Arthur: - Sorry, Wolfblade is quite prideful and only allows me and Raven to pet him. -

That was when everyone heard a sound similar to glass breaking and it was coming from White Glint...

Naomi: - Raven... -

Everyone soon noticed that her toned screamed one thing: DANGER!

Raven: - Y-yes Naomi? -

That was when he was suddenly grabbed by her and she started shaking him!

Naomi: - MIND... TELLING... ME... WHY... YOU... NEVER... MENTIONED... YOU... HAD... A... KLAXOSAUR... PET!? -

Because they haven't unlinked themselves from White Glint, the NEXT was shaking erradicaly as she said that and to be fair, made everyone be more afraid of her than to Wolfblade... even the klaxosaurs near the NEXT stepped back from it...

Squad 13, Atlas squadron and some klaxosaurs: "Scary..."

Raven: - Cap-tain... pleea-se- help! -

Wolfblade: - Master... did Raven finally got a mate? -

That word was more than enough to make Naomi stop as she went from being red of anger to being red of embarrasment...

Naomi: - M-m-m-m-m-mate? -

Arthur: - Emmm... not quite boy... -

Wolfblade: - Ah... so they're courting then... -

Raven: *blushing* - We're NOT! Yet at least...! *turns to Naomi* Right...? -

Naomi stood silent, babbling until...

Naomi: - KYAAAAAAAAAAAAAH! -

SLAP!

Everyone felt that and felt sorry for Raven...

Wolfblade: - I guess that answers my question... -

That was when Naomi dropped another bombshell: - ORION! YOU BETTER TELL US NOW WHAT EXACTLY IS THE MEANING OF THIS! OTHERWISE, I SWEAR TO WHATEVER IS OUT THERE THAT I WILL FORCE RAVEN OUT OF THE LYNK SO THAT I CAN SOLO PILOT AND THEN KICK YOUR BUTT SO HARD IT WILL BECOME PART OF THE DESERT SAND! -

Everyone stayed silent at her sudden rant... until Wolfblade talked: - Whipped. *Simulates the whip crack sound with his tail* -

After he said that, Atlas squadron lost it and started laughing at him!

*TF2 laughing noises*

Arthur: - No comment... we deserved that... -

Sally: - Wow, long time since someone has shut you up like that, eh Orion? -

Orion: - That girl has my respect, 100%. -

Zero Two: "Maybe bonding with this group wasn't a bad idea at all. Naomi seems to have something the others lack... just like the rest seem to have something unique on them... and this is quite a surprise to know about..."

Hiro was silent as the laughs seemed to trigger something inside him: another vision happened, but this time he saw a younger Ichigo and Goro laughing with him in a peculiar moment in the garden... something that for some reason seemed familiar to him... and it ended again with the vision of white plates and blue lights and red horns...

Hiro: "That was... no, gotta focus now..."

The laughing calmed down and soon Arthur answered: - Yeah, I guess answers are in order. This is Wolfblade, a klaxosaur that me, Sally and Raven raised together when we were younger. He came from a klaxosaur egg, one that was smaller than most. Did we knew it was a klaxosaur egg when we found him? No... were we dumb enough to hatch it? Yes. Do we regret it? ABSOLUTELY NOT. *Pets Wolfblade* This boy has been a great friend of ours during those sweet days of innocence... -

Naomi: - And why is he here? Why wasn't he with you then after all this time? -

Arthur: - Even with our best intentions, Wolfblade couldn't stay with us forever. As he grew up, and he did so very fast, he yearned for freedom. He couldn't stay enclosed in one area for the rest of his life, and we couldn't force him to stay either. In the end, after 6 years together, we let him go... -

Memories came flooding, as he remembered that day. Him, Sally and Raven, in their tweens, crying as they had to see one of their best friends leave. His stay had come to an end and he was tall and strong enough to be on his own. But saying goodbye to a companion you had seen come to the world, you had personally nurtured, educated and played with for 6 wonderful years full of innocence, discovery and adventure, was the one of the most hurtful of their lives...

Orion: - Will we see you again one day, Wolfblade? -

Wolfblade: - I do not know master. But if it happens, will you recognize me? -

Orion: - Of course I will do! Even if you're blue like all others, I will know it will be you! You carry our mark! -

He said as he pointed to the white three clawed he, Raven and Sally had painted on him as a goodbye gift.

Wolfblade: - Then so will I... no matter how far... -

After one final hug, Wolfblade jumped and galloped away into the green hills of the District and into the wasteland, towards his destiny, never forgetting his greatest allies between his enemies...

Arthur: - Is great to see you again buddy. I wish it was in better circumstances though... -

Wolfblade: - So do I... for there is a sin to pay... from them... -

He aimed his tail at the damaged franxx...

White Glint: - What? But they are already beaten! And you already took away their plantation! Isn't that enough to settle the debt man? -

Wolfblade: - They killed... one of our sons... my son. -

Stunned silence reigned in... until White Glint said: - Explain please... -

Code 345: - Oh come on! You're gonna make us now the bad ones because...? -

White Glint: - Just tell us how! We're in a war, things like this happen... we won't blame you for it. -

Code 467: - During the ambush... we made a run for it... and one of them followed us... we tried to escape but it catched up to us... I could still feel its claws and teeth on us... it hurt so much... I acted on instict... I tried to get it off me, I swear! I just wanted the pain to stop! -

White Glint: - But what happened? -

Code 345: - I aimed at the ceiling, right underneath a sharp rock... it gave way and fell on it. -

Arthut: "Environmental kill, those two know how to improvise..."

Wolfblade: - It doesn't change anything... you came here for the sake of hurting my pack... we defended our territory, we defended ourselves. -

He walked closer towards the franxx that killed his kin: - My duty as the leader of this pack... is to protect them from all threats... sometimes alone, sometimes with the assistance of those who follow me... After your failure... I discovered his body... my son... my own flesh... I had protected everyone save for him... I had failed... in doing what my masters had done for me... -

He then impaled his tail blade into the ground as he then used it to slice through it: - I took my rage against your Plantation, for the pain you had inflicted me... wouldn't be satisfied with its destruction... the pack helped me... for they know I would always think of their good over my own... for their good was that of my son too... and with him gone... there's only one way to pay... a life for a life... the life of the killers who took him! -

White Glint: - Woah! Calm down Wolfblade! They had already paid as it is! The place they called home is destroyed, 1 million lives had already been paid by their sin! There's no more need for revenge! You already made justice! -

He was silenced as Wolfblade put his blade between him and White Glint: - Master... don't interfere... this is a conflict between me and them... not you nor your squad... -

White Glint: - But Wolfblade! -

Arthur: - Let it be Raven... we can't do much to stop him. Klaxosaurs are an enigma to us and Wolfblade belongs to them. They follow their own laws and him being the alpha of the pack, means that he IS their law now... -

Argentea: - You mean that you can't find a way to stop him?! -

Arthur: - Not without making everything worse than it is... have you seen around us? If we even do something similar to foul play, his pack will not stop until we all die! Is thanks to his friendship with us that they are holding... and after 6 years away, I can't hold that much influence over what he does now... -

Genista: - But we can't let our friends die! We came here all the way to save them! -

Arthur: - Unless you want to challenge him personally, I can't do much! -

Wolfblade: - Enough wasting words... I will now claim the debt of their sins... -

He prepared his tail blade, as spikes appeared on the other 3 and just when he was about to throw them...

Deplhinium: - WAIT! -

She sled directly in front of him, blocking his line of fire...

Delphinium: - What would it take to clear their sin without them losing their lives? They don't deserve this ending after witnessing everything they had being taken away from them! It's not fair! You lost a son and I won't deny that I can't understand how that must feel! But I understand the pain you have and how it could cloud your judgement as a leader... I almost lost someone dear to me too... and almost got my team killed because of it! But you, you have your pack with you! You still have someone to help you with it! I don't know if this will change your mind! But I won't let them die! -

Everyone was amazed at her courage and it seemed her speech did something as Wolfblade growled but did not attack...

Wolfblade: - So... you... as the leader... are willing to take their sin upon your shoulders? -

Delphinium: - If it means saving them as well as saving one of my squad... I will. -

Wolfblade: - Then it's a challenge... fight me for their right to live alongside yours. - He then roared a command and at that moment a group of klaxosaurs used their tentacles to wrap them around the damaged franxx and took it away from the group!

Code 345: - No, no! -

Code 467: - HELP US! -

Chlorophytum/Genista: - Code 467/345! -

They tried to go and rescue them but they were stopped by White Glint and Hotsteel...

Both: - What are you doing?! -

White Glint: - DON'T! That's breaking the rules of the challenge! Their fate now rests in Delphinium and only her! She has to defeat Wolfblade on her own! -

Strelizia: - This is dumb... why are we even negotiating with these beasts that had taken millions of lives before? -

Wolfblade: - You opinion is useless... for what would you... the red devil... know about the burdens of a leader... when all you do... is abandon all in that blind quest of yours?-

Strelizia got angry at that: - Why you...! -

Delphinium: - Strelitzia! DON'T SCREW THIS NOW! This is my fight to do! Understand that?! -

Zero Two growled... but at the same time her admiration for Ichigo leveled up... she was really willing to risk herself for the sake of two Parasites that will soon become statistics? She decided... for once have faith on someone else...

Strelitzia: - Fine. Just make sure you hit him hard. -

Delphinium smiled at that and soon turned towards Wolfblade: - So... when do we begin? -

Wolfblade simply roared another command as the pack soon made space for a circular arena for the two of them, away from her squad...

Wolfblade: - No harm will happen... as long as the fight endures... and as long... as it stays fair and square... you go first... -

Delphinium nodded and walked towards the circle. Once she reached the center, the klaxosaurs closed her way out.

Arthur: - Wolfblade? -

Wolfblade: - Yes? -

Arthur: - No matter what happens... I will still consider you my friend... -

Wolfblade nodded then said: - Enough talking... let's begin this... FIGHT OR DIE! -

*Play "I'm my Own Master Now" instrumental (extended)*

Wolfblade jumped towards the circle and once he landed he looked at Delphinium, whom prepared herself...

Ichigo: - Ready Goro? -

Goro: - Ready as always... let's save our friends' lives! -

She stood ready, her new mask deploying as Wolfblade launched a big roar to the sky! Once he was done, he lunged at her with his frontal claws!

Delphinium barely managed to block his attack, and soon realized that the lupine klaxosaur had strong attacks...

Delphinium: "Ok, make sure to block each of his attacks or I will have a bad time..."

She was then surprised when he stepped back and suddenly started spinning like a buzzsaw!

Delphinium: - What the...? -

He then charged at her!

Goro: - We can't block this! Move! -

Delphinium managed to evade just in the nick of time, only to be surprised as he continued spinning and turned towards her again!

Delphinium: - What?! -

She evaded again and then again and again as Wolfblade turned easily and was relentless. Finally, after one more dodge, he jumped and attacked from above, uncurling himself in the air and plunging towards her extremely fast!

Delphinium: - Woah! -

She barely managed to block his attack, and ended up pinned into the ground as his blade was stopped by her swords! Both were now on a deadlock and it was clear Wolfblade had the advantage.

Wolfblade: - A life for a life! Is this all you can do?! -

Delphinium struggled hard to keep the blade away from her, getting closer inch by inch... until she used her legs to kick Wolfblade hard on his stomach, getting him off her!

Delphinium: - Grrr... -

Goro: - That attack did some damage to the Envy Shop... we will have to be careful with that blade... careful! -

Wolfblade had produced spikes on his other 3 smaller tails and sent them towards Delphinium! It was too late to dodge!

Goro: - Ichigo! -

Delphinium: "No... NO! I won't let everyone down! The lives of 2 friends depend on us!"

Suddenly, in its most dire moment, the rings around her blades shined and the flying daggers suddenly slowed down, moments before impact!

Goro: - What? Is this...? -

He took a look towards the ZKE and saw it drop down... they were in Zandatsu mode!

Delphinium: - So this is what Raven and Naomi experienced... no time to waste! -

She slashed at the daggers and easily deflected them away from her! After that, the mode deactivated and the world returned to its normal speed.

Argentea: - Did you all see that?! She managed to deflect them those daggers at the last minute! -

Andromeda: - That's Zandatsu mode! They managed to unlock it right now? Man, you were right captain, this children have potential! -

Wolfblade: - Zandatsu... do my masters trust you... to reveal to you a technique... so heavily guarded by their people? -

Delphinium: - We're not here to answer questions, remember?! -

She charged at him and almost managed to hit him, only for him to block her swords with his tail blade.

Wolfblade: You're right... I start to see... the mantle you carry... -

He parried her attack and slashed at her with her claws... hitting her right on her chest!

Delphinium: - ARGH! -

She managed to backstep swiftly but now she had quite the nasty marks on her chest...

Goro: - Heavy damage received on the main body frame... Ichigo, we have to find a way to attack him without receiving retallation. -

Ichigo: - But how? -

Their thoughts were interrupted as Wolfblade curled himself up and spinned again. Delphinium keep her focus on him as he attacked her just like before... eventually, he soon jumped again and prepared to impale her from above... but this time, Delphinium dodged earlier. Wolfblade's tail got stuck on the ground...

Wolfblade: - Grrrrr... -

Delphinium: "My chance is now!"

Activating Zandatsu, she unleashed a barrage of slashes on Wolfblade's skin, effectively giving the klaxosaur new scars. Once the ZKE read 'low', Delphinium backstepped to safety just as Wolfblade freed his tail and tried slashing her back...

Wolfblade: - Not bad... but it won't be enough... -

He charged at her again and Delphinium dodged, he then did a somersault to try and catch her off guard with his claws, only for his attack to be parried...

Delphinium: - My turn... -

She slashed at him many times on his exposed belly before giving a hard cut on one of his legs...

Wolfblade: - Aurggh! -

He retaliated by spinning his body and damaging Delphinium's left arm in the process!

Delphinium: - AGH! -

Goro: - Dammit, heavy damage on left arm... -

Ichigo was panting heavily...

Goro: - Ichigo... -

Ichigo: - I can do this Goro... -

Chlorophytum: - Look out! -

Delphinium just had time to block another lunge from Wolfblade whom proceeded to try to overpower her. Delphinium was holding her ground though and soon forced him away from her. Wolfblade however, counter-attacked quickly and stabbed her right leg!

Delphinium: - ARRRGH! -

Squad 13: - Ichigo! Goro! -

Wolfblade: - Will you power on through the pain? -

Just as he was about to rev up his blade, Delphinium's answer came as she slashed at it... and cut off his tail!

Wolfblade howled in pain and pulled away as Delphinium stood up...

Delphinium: - WILL YOU?! -

TIME TO LEAVE THEM ALL BEHIIIIIIIND!

Wolfblade: - Grrrr! Now I'm mad and impressed! -

He lunged at her again, both injured leaders getting into a deadlock!

BREAKING OUT OF MY PAIN!

As they try to overpower each other, Wolfblade said: - You're different to those other Parasites we encountered... and I'm not talking of the ones who just paid...

Delphinium: - You claimed more than just them?! -

Wolfblade: - It was for my pack! -

NOTHING VENTURED - NOTHING GAINED!

Both got out of the deadlock only to change posture and get into another one!

Wolfblade: - Your people come here, towards the territory we call home, for the sake of exterminating us! Why shouldn't we fight back! -

Delphinium: - You creatures are the ones responsible for most of the fall of humanity! -

Wolfblade: - And how can you be sure of that?! -

I'M MY OWN MASTER NOW!

Both of them let go of the deadlock, and started circling around, dashing at any chance they got against each other...

Delphinium: - The adults told us! Ever since you appeared, humanity has been in danger because of you! -

Wolfblade: - Because of us, or because of yourselves? Have you ever wondered what did you do that awakened us? -

BEAR THE MARK OF MY SCARS!

In one more rush, both locked up again!

Wolfblade: - Do you really trust that blindly to your masters you don't question what happened between them and us? -

Delphinium: - What are you even saying?! It doesn't make sense! -

Wolfblade: - Your people accuse us of mindless beasts! Yet that's all I see in your people too! -

He let go and then charged strongly against Delphinium, pinning her into the ground!

SHEDDING BLOOD UNDERNEATH THE STARS!

He then tried to chomp her face only for her to block his jaws with her swords... even then, he started chomping on them furiously!

Delphinium: - I don't understand a thing of what you're saying! But I do know one thing! -

BUT I WILL SURVIVE SOMEHOW!

She kicked him off her and back flipped as she prepared to charge!

Delphinium: - Those two that you're trying to kill are friends of my friends... and as their leader... I WILL SAVE THEM! -

Hear me howl!

Wolfblade howled in defiance and charge at her! At the same time, Delphinium charged and both clashed!

To everyone's surprise, Delphinium used her head to stop Wolfblade's attack and stunned him!

Time to leave them all behind~~

Then, in a blur, she went into Zandatsu mode again, as she flew above him, and slashed at his face, his back, and his upper thighs. When she deactivated it, she landed with difficulty while Wolfblade's new injuries made him collapse!

I'm my own master now!

Struggling to stand up, Wolfblade was growling in pain, all the while Delphinium limped towards him. Eventually, she was right in front of him and Wolfblade resigned himself to his fate: - You have beaten me... fair and square... the debt... is paid... -

He roared once more and the klaxosaur holding code 345 and code 467 let their franxx free. Soon enough, Genista and Chlorophytum went there and retrieved their friends safely. Just then, Wolfblade said: - Come on... do it... just as you were told... finish me off... obey your leader Papa...-

Delphinium did not respond... aimed her swords... and trusted them into the ground, just a few inches away of his neck...

Strelizia: - What is she doing? -

Argentea: - Cap? -

Delphinium did not respond but the comms indicated that both Ichigo and Goro were exhausted... after breathing heavily, she finally said...

Delphinium: - My leader... is myself... and our sensei... -

The battle finally took its toll on their pilots and Delphinium collapsed on top of Wolfblade as both her pilots passed out...

Squad 13: - Delphinium! -

Hachi: - Delphinium is offline. Code 015 and 056 vitals are stable though, they are just passed out! Captain Orion, take your wounded and RTB asap! -

Orion: - Understood. -

He went to pickup Delphinium, looking at Wolfblade as he did so. He soon walked towards White Glint and told him: - Take her and everybody back to base... -

White Glint: - Orion? -

Arthur: - I have something to do before I return... Firefox, I pass you command... -

Firefox: - Roger captain. Okey guys, let's go home... -

Atlas Squadron activated their thrusters as the pack opened up and soon sled away, White Glint and Squad 13 following them closely. Arthur simply looked at them before switching to Wolfblade. He went towards him and kneeled as he petted him...

Arthur: - Sorry about that old friend... yet you're still that noble blue guardian wolf that we remembered from our childhood... -

Wolfblade: - And you're still that kid, following the path of tales of old... knight. -

Sally: - The same tales that guide us in the path that APE has forgotten long ago... -

Wolfblade: - And those children... you think you can guide them into it? -

Arthur: - We can't... we WILL... old friend... -

Wolfblade: - Then in that case... you must know something masters... the Queen is calling... the time of the trials is drawing near... and the one that defeated me just passed one... -

Arthur stood silent before speaking again: - Thank you for that info... now, let's see if we can patch you up a little before we leave, will ya? -

Even injured, Wolfblade wagged his tail...

Sometime later, at the Cerasus infirmary...

All code 345 remembered before passing out to exhaustion and hunger was being carried off his damaged franxx by Futoshi, Ikuno and the rest of squad 13 as darkness enveloped around him, only to be waken up by the nightmares of the klaxosaur that eliminated his team...

Code 345: "Why... why should I suffer this?"

He struggled to see around him but soon enough his vision cleared up to see in front of him a very familiar face...

Raven: - I struggle to bring you breakfast only to have it thrown into my face? -

As he regained his senses, Code 345 soon realized that he had thrown off a plate full of food and all of it had landed into Raven's uniform. Even if the sight was hilarious, he was too much in shock to laugh: - Shi... shi... Shijugo... -

Raven: - Surpriiiiiise. I lived... Titus... -

Titus... a name he had long ago forgotten because the one who gave it to him disappeared and didn't made sense to hold it any longer... until now...

Memories of what happened earlier came back to him and that was when he realized something big...

Titus: - Shijugo... you... you were... the rumors say... - He tried to stand up but his body soon protested it...

Raven: - Slow down man... take it easy for now... and yes, I was the White Glint this whole time... -

Titus: - Unbelievable... how did you stumble upon such a fine piece of machinery?! -

Raven: "This... isn't what I expected..." - What? -

Titus: - The design in your mech! It's modules, it's extremities, its frame! It lacks the elegance of Franxx but it carries such a mystical air on it mixed with versatility, toughness... and... -

He stopped as if he suddenly realized something and became depressed: - I got loose ranting again about designs didn't I? -

Raven looked at him before giggling and then it transformed into laughter: - Hahahaha! Even after all these years, you're still the same closet technician I met those days in the Garden. -

Titus: - Stop that... be sincere to me, you think I'm a freak too, don't you? -

Raven:- Titus... I had too many close calls with death itself, made dumb decisions and faced scary odds in the 10 years I had disappeared... seeing you alive is more than enough joy to me to simply care about your flaws. -

He patted him in his back as a friendly gesture: - I'm glad to see you and Pari again... -

Titus: - Thanks Shijugo... wait, sh** PARI! Is she okay?! -

Raven: - Relax! Relax, she is fine! In fact, she should be arriving here about... -

The door opened to reveal Naomi and code 467 'Pari' on the other side...

Raven: - Now... -

Pari: - Titus! You're alive! -

Titus: - Hi Pari... I'm glad you're alive too... and hello to you too Naomi. -

Naomi: - Hello Titus... -

Naomi pushed Pari in as she was bound into a wheelchair because of her injuries... however, just as she was about to close the door behind her...

Futoshi: - Hey! Hold it open please! -

Pari seemed to tense a little when he heard that voice. Soon enough, Futoshi and Ikuno arrived, the former carrying another tray full of food. Pari blushed a little as she looked for a second at him before fidgeting her fingers... this did not went unnoticed by Naomi...

Naomi: "I knew it, I knew it! Wait till Raven hears about this!"

Futoshi: - Titus, Pari! We're so glad to see you again! Even though we wish it could be in better circunstances... -

Titus: - Same... but at least is good to see that you still remember us and also, how do you know our names? -

Ikuno: - Raven told us about it while you recovered. As you two and Naomi were his closest friends, he tried to imitate Hiro in that aspect with you. -

Titus: - Hiro? Code 16 is here too? The legend of the Garden? And who's Raven? -

Raven: - For the first question, yes, he is an official Parasite with Squad 13. As for the second, you're looking directly at him. -

Titus: - Wait what? Shijugo, why would you change your name? -

Raven: - Its a long story, but my new name is something I'm proud of. I will fill you why later... for now, you two have to eat, I'm pretty sure that after being 2 days in a coma you're gonna need it. -

Titus was about to ask about the detail of being in a coma before his stomach and Pari's grumbled for sustenance.

Titus: - Well, I guess you're right... wait, crap! I just realized that I threw my lunch on you! -

Ikuno: - Ah, that explains your dirty uniform Raven. -

Raven: - I don't blame him. -

Futoshi: - Don't worry! I didn't know what you two would like for food so I brought a lot just in case! -

He settled down the tray and he wasn't kidding, he had brought enough food for 6 people in that tray.

Pari: - Tha- thank you Futoshi. -

Futoshi simply smiled at her which caused her to also smile shily.

Raven: - Anyways, if you don't mind, I'm kind of starving, so ITADAKIMASU! -

The rest soon followed his example and started eating, the hospital room being the sanctuary of their long awaited reunion.

---

AAAAAAND DONE!

Boy, was this one a banger and hanger to write! I'm proud of how it turned out even if in the end I had to cut a few things out. Anyways, I hoped you liked the training, the rescue operation and the duel! It was hard to write it as I pictured it (that and also Blade Wolf's fight in MGRR is kind of short). Oh, and Xelku9, I hope you like the way I portrayed your OC's here in their debut! Thanks again for letting me use them! Anyways, next chapter will come out much later because of the burnout this one cost me. See ya next chapter!

...

...

...

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

...One trial... has been answered...