Darling in the Franxx: Alternate Core

Chapter 18: Partner Shuffle done right; the trials of Alstroemeria, Genista, and Chlorophytum.

Chapter 18, the one with heartbreaks and broken promises… in the original of course. In here, thanks to character development, it will be toned down a little on that part, however, that doesn't mean it won't be as exciting as in canon. What will happen in this occasion now? And will our remaining trio of shuffling couples have the skills and trust to overcome the next trial? Read and find out!

Into the show!


Dreamland…

He saw a child version of Mitsuru go through the elixir injection process alongside the many pains it brought and was glad to see that he survived… then he saw his grief as he interacted with Hiro after he had been wiped alongside the consequences it brought and how that caused his unnecessary grudge…

He then saw Pari's past through his mind, his emotions being filled with anger and worry as she was being bullied because of her skin color and this caused her to enter a serious depression… and then he was glad as he soon saw her guiding light through it…

He then saw through Titus' mind this time, his life in isolation as he was pushed away by everyone else because of his 'eccentricities' until he met him, then it fast-forwarded to the point where he and Pari officially became partners and had a decent but lame career on their previous Plantation before cutting off as they sortied into Wolfblade's den…

Then he dived into Zero Two's memories… he did his best to stay strong as he saw everything she suffered and endured all while holding on into the hope that she would reunite again with Hiro… anger and resolve going through him as he then saw how years went by and all her efforts had been fruitless until the day she visited the 'Cerasus'… "And thanks to me, she was rewarded…"

He then looked through the memories of everyone else from Squad 13, surprise and worry filling him as he looked at them against his will…

"What's going on? Am I dreaming? But they feel so realistic… wait, they aren't dreams! They are memories! Why am I looking at everyone's memories without their consent!? How is this even possible?!"

Before his mind went into a panic, he heard a squawk and looked to see a spectral raven looking at him… it then flew away as it went through a cloud of memories that Raven didn't recognize… but for some reason, he felt familiar with the owner…

"They feel… familiar… like I know the owner of them… but why…? Huh…"

He was feeling exhausted and knew that he would soon wake up…

"But… now I have questions… that need answers…"

He unconsciously went through the corridor of the unknown memories, his senses vanishing every step, until he reached the end where the raven was perched over the picture of a familiar mecha…

"White Glint? Wait… that version is from…"

The raven then spoke as he fell unconscious: - Pray for answer to fly, Raven. –

The 'Cerasus', 7:00 am…

Raven woke up startled, that dream was a weird one…

Raven: "But was it really a dream… or a vision? Could it be that it is the LYNX Syndrome?"

LYNX Syndrome was something that happened to the pilots that either couldn't qualify during the tests or had been on the job for quite some time and their body was reaching its limit. It would usually start with hallucinations and lucid dreams before progressing towards dementia and, on some occasions, cause 'vegetative state' on the affected. Fortunately, it is easy to cure, but for many veteran pilots, this usually meant one thing: the start of the end of their careers as LYNX.

Raven: "I'm still way too young to stop… well, to be fair it wouldn't be a bad thing, I was always thinking of… wait, that's for later, I still have a mission here!"

As he tried to get up, he felt a weight on his left side and looked towards Naomi who was waking up because of him…

Naomi: - Hmmm? Is it morning already? –

Raven took a quick look at the clock: - 7:50 actually… -

Naomi: - Why so early today, Raven? It is Saturday… -

Raven: "Damn… she even got that detail about me… should I tell her? *Tries to think of a reason to say no but remembers his promise to her about his burdens…*" - *Sighs* I had a weird dream tonight… remember what I told you about the LYNX Syndrome? –

Naomi: - I do… you said it meant to many… wait *gets alarmed* but you're so young! –

Raven: - Relax, relax! I'm not saying I have it… but what I dreamed of was unnerving… -

He then proceeded to explain her what he had dreamed, how he saw everyone's memories and how in the final moments he saw White Glint in his old version piloted by his mentor… and how that corridor seemed to be filled with memories related to the NEXT…

Raven: - And that's when I woke up… I don't know why but it felt familiar… like I knew about that place before… -

Naomi: - Could it be that it is something that was blocked? Like with Hiro? –

Raven: - No, it cannot be. First, I wasn't wiped, and those symptoms would be headaches, fever, and others that involve the body. The LYNX Syndrome is more about illusions, lucid dreams, hallucinations, and others of the mental nature. This one felt… like neither… -

Naomi: - You think so? Wait, you said you saw everyone's memories… including mine? –

Raven: - Yes… and to be fair, I already saw yours when we first linked together back at the bunker, remember? I just saw them with more detail… -

Naomi: - Oh… I see… -

She looked distracted at this, and Raven soon asked: - Is something wrong? –

Naomi sighed before she cuddled close to him and answered: - Is my 'sense' again… in my dreams too… -

"I was standing on a dark place with blue lights illuminating it in patterns that indicated it was a city in ruins… but it wasn't like any I had seen before. It wasn't in the surface meaning it wasn't made by human hands… and yet the designs I could see in the darkness closely resembled them… then the place went dark and a corridor light up right in front of me, guiding me to a room… as I walked through it, I saw weird contraptions of black and blue that at first looked humanoid but as I progressed through, I saw them deteriorate and becoming more beast-like until I realized that they became klaxosaurs! Klaxosaurs were literally Franxx at the beginning and that meant that SOMEONE had to pilot them! Before I could think more deeply into what I discovered… the lights turned off and the floor moved and that's when I realized that I was on top of one: it was a HUGE snake-like creature and looked intelligent like Wolfblade… and for some reason, I was calm as it took me towards another section of the caverns where I saw a white tree with black leaves… and as I looked at it, all of the leaves started to fall in big numbers until one was left but eventually, that one fell too. For some reason, I was saddened as I felt the tree was dying and that was when the serpent spoke to me through my mind…

Serpent: "The line of the ravens is dying… you two may be the ones that will mark its end… or maybe a new start… the fate of this war of millennia rests upon your wings… Jians… Soon enough, your big trial will come… and the world will judge you worthy of flying…"

They then settled me down into the leaves which gave way and I fell through. As I fell, many of the leaves turned into feathers and each of them had a picture of people that looked similar to what Zero Two is, with everything and horns, but as I fell more and more, those features started to vanish slowly and soon the people in the leaves became humans… and that was when I saw the last one… and it… it… it was…"

Sometime later, at the briefing room…

Orion: - Alright kids, even though your mentorship with us has ended, me and Sally are still monitoring the squad's performance under the permission of Ichigo and the doctor. As such, today we will be doing a general review of your performance now that you're officially considered LYNXs. –

He pulled out a holo-tablet as everyone looked and waited patiently for his verdict…

Orion: - We will start with the kill count of each member ever since the start of your training. In first place we have a tie between Strelizia and White Glint, your kills numbering over 100. –

Raven: - *Whistles* Nice. –

Zero Two: - Awww… what a bummer, I wanted to prove big bro I'm better than him. –

Raven: - *Smirks* Still need more than that sis… -

Zero Two stuck out her tongue to him as Hiro and Naomi sweat dropped at their interaction…

Orion: - Adoptive sibling rivalry aside… both of your general performance is exemplary. Although team Strelizia still has issues using the Zandatsu module, it is clear you compensate for that using your superior characteristics and bond. As for team White Glint… ever since Raven has shared his burden with Naomi, its performance has increased tenfold. Keep at it you 4! –

Both teams went to share high-fives as everybody else simply saw them a little envious…

Orion: - Now we continue with the leader unit. Team Delphinium's kill count is literally 100, impressive! Your squad's performance has skyrocketed as you have proven again and again to be a reliable leader in most of our unexpected ops and because you heeded our advice of going out of your way to improve the squad's bonds and morale. And as you can see, helping everyone become better has the side effect of making you better. Great work! –

The squad gave Ichigo and Goro an applause in congratulations to which both received in a reverence.

Orion: - Now, in third place we got Argentea! With a kill count close to 89, you have proven that sometimes impulsivity and improvisation go a long way in the chaos of battle! There's still room for improvement though and that has to do with upgrading your patience. Trust me, a little bit more makes a LOT of difference too. –

Zorome: - Understood sensei! –

Miku: - It is an improvement, after everything you do… -

Zorome: - Oi! –

Orion chuckled before continuing: - In fourth with 69 (Nice) kills we have Alstroemeria. Pari, Titus, your performance is good for a support unit, but it is clear to me that you're not giving it your maximum yet. You are doing great, but you still have a lot of potential. –

Pari and Titus: - Yes sensei! –

Orion: - Alright, now in fifth, we have Genista with 63 kills. For the role she was designed, that's more than average, but for a LYNX category, that's not enough. Again, as I said before, you have potential. –

Futoshi and Kokoro simply nodded as they heard this as Orion went for the last one…

Orion: - And in last place, we got Chlorophytum, with just 51 kills. It is usually the average number that most rookie LYNX in the SMC get in over a year but in this case, it is not good. You have lot of potential, but it is clear that you aren't tapping into it. –

Mitsuru simply groaned while Ikuno nodded as Raven looked at them with worry: "Come on Mitsuru! At this rate you will be pruned! We talked about this before!"

Orion: - Now, we have an idea on how to solve this issue which me and Sally will be discussing with your caretakers and the doctor while you're busy in the next op. For now, prepare for sortie. Dismissed and pray for answer. –

Everyone: - Pray for answer! –

As everyone leaves, Mitsuru was intercepted by Raven who simply told him: - Mitsuru, we're going to talk after this… -

Mitsuru simply sighed as he expected this: - I know… -

Later, at the S-planning operation…

Argentea: - I wonder what they are digging up here… -

Delphinium: - Sensei told me that this is where they get the frames and materials for future Franxxs. And from what I understand, they are extracted from the corpses of ancient klaxosaurs… -

Everyone (except Strelizia and White Glint): - What?! –

Titus: - You mean we have been using the corpses of our enemies to fight against them?! –

White Glint: - Technically, we're using a "resurrected" version of their corpses… but you know how the saying goes… -

Strelizia: - "Fighting fire with fire". Did I nail it? –

White Glint chuckled as he then said: - You're now stealing my quotes, huh? –

Naomi: - It isn't stealing if I share them with them! –

White Glint: - Et tu, Naomi?! Those quotes are what make me look like the big brother! How could you?! –

Both girls simply chuckled while everyone else listened to their friendly bickering…

Kokoro: - Naomi and Zero Two really are something else to what they were at the beginning… -

Futoshi: - Yeah, and so are we. We have all become stronger together which is the reason we are here now… -

As Kokoro nodded, Futoshi felt himself having some doubts… after what their sensei has told them and what he discovered, he was wondering if his strength and bond with Kokoro was enough… or did he had the potential to make it something more? If so, could it be done with Kokoro… or could it be only accessible with Pari? He was still convinced that his feelings for Kokoro were true and all… but how could he confirm it? That's when an idea came to him… and if what he learned was correct, then this would be the perfect test to see which path he was to choose…

Futoshi: - Hey Kokoro, I have a question for you… -

Kokoro: - Hmmm? –

Futoshi: - I kind of wonder how we can be stronger after what sensei told us… and I think I have an idea… but first I want to know… will you promise me that you will stay as my partner as long as it takes? "If what Pari's diary says is true… then you have to be firm for once Kokoro… I need to know if you really want this…"

Now Kokoro was at a dilemma, she didn't want to hurt Futoshi but after what she had promised to Mitsuru and realizing the situation he was in, she knew that the moment she had dreaded for so long was now… she HAD to make a decision either based on her selfless kindness or her selfish preferences for once… but as she tried to make up her mind and say 'no', she just couldn't get the words out of her mouth…

Kokoro: - Futoshi… I… I think… I… I believe that… I… -

Raven: /I hate interrupting a moment like this but next time set your comms to private you two…/

Zorome: /What he said! Be aware next time./

Futoshi/Kokoro: "Damn you Raven…"

On the other hand however, it gave both of them time to reflect about the answer and in some way were glad that Raven had intervened, specially for one Pistil…

Pari: "Thank you Raven… I don't know what I would have done once we heard the response… it would have been the end for me…"

Titus: - Pari, are you alright? I'm… I can understand what you must be feeling right now… -

Pari: *Sighs* - I had been preparing myself for this for some time… but first I need to talk with Kokoro about it… to make peace with it… -

Whatever Titus was going to respond was interrupted as the alarm sounded and blips appeared on everyone's radar…

Delphinium: - We got incoming! 14 Conrads moving in through the west! –

White Glint: - Prepare to intercept everyone! –

Goro: - I wonder if they have a nest nearby… they are becoming more frequent… -

Chlorophytum suddenly made a choking noise as it went into her knees and disconnected…

White Glint: - Chlorophytum! Are you alright? What's going on?! –

Ikuno turned around to see Mitsuru and discovered he was sweating and having trouble staying focused…

Sometime later, 'Cerasus' infirmary…

Orion: - A child fever? –

Sally: - Their own way of addressing the "Psycho-fever". Mitsuru's mental health is bad, and it seems to have been since he was a child in the Garden, both because of genetics and a psychological issue with Hiro apparently… -

Orion: - How did you even get that detail? –

Sally: - Raven confessed it to me. He feels bad for doing so but he knows you will do EVERYTHING to keep him on the team. –

Orion: - He is right on that… but it will be useless UNLESS he decides to do a change for once. *Sighs* And Raven is a key factor for that… of all the times… –

Sally: - Orion, what's wrong? –

Orion: - The SMC has managed to unlock White Glint's FORBIDDEN category of weapons… -

Sally: - You mean… the O.W.? The 'Overed' Weapons?! There was a GOOD reason why Zorran and your father locked those under key! –

Orion: - I know but because of imminent clash we're about to have, high command believes that just having one of them will be more than enough to cover for a backup plan in case the operation doesn't go as expected. As such they sent this one only to be tested… -

He soon showed the holo-blueprint of one of such weapons: it looked like a giant cannon fueled by pure Kojima energy as it contained a generator of such on it. (The Giga-cannon from Armored Core V: Verdict Day)

Orion: - They promised it will be the ONLY weapon they will use out of the whole arsenal and gave us the assurance that it will NOT be used on ACs nor NEXTs. –

Sally: - So just a fixed defensive weapon then? –

Orion: - I think is more than that… you and I have been in this job long enough to know they just don't pull this sort of 'old' technology just to use them as defensive territorial weaponry… -

Sally grumbled as she knew that was true: history has shown that most of the most advanced civilian technology ever created started as military assets for a time before being relegated to civilian use because a better technology appeared later. The 'Overed' weapon category is rumored to be state of the art WMDs developed in secret in APE's R&D facilities as stopgaps while the Franxxs were developed. In the end, the high cost to develop and build their prototypes was more than enough to close the program once Franxx were available. Obviously, once the SMC segregated from APE, they seized most of their abandoned projects and soon found ways to retrofit them into their own designs. The exception to this was the 'Overed' weapons, every attempt to use at least one of them to analyze them always ended in disaster for the test AC alongside the LYNX unlucky enough to pilot it and it was the same story when they tried using them on NEXTs and soon became synonymous to a death sentence for committing capital punishment. However, that soon changed as it was soon recorded that only one NEXT alongside its LYNX were able to fully use 1 of them AND survive the test: White Glint. Even with his former LYNX gone, the NEXT still had the necessary software to connect and use the O.W.s and they still had the parameters used in the experiment. All they needed to do now that the weapon had been unlocked was to connect it the NEXT and ran the test… which was what Orion dreaded… but after all the benefits the SMC had provided him and Atlas squad for their mission, he wasn't in a position to deny them…

Orion: - I just hope Raven and Naomi are ready for this alongside their friends… -

Meanwhile…

Back at the lobby of the Cerasus, as everyone talked about Mitsuru's status and background, Hiro silently listened to the conversation far from everyone at stairs, feeling guilty for it.

Hiro: "Dammit… If I had just recovered that memory earlier than the rest… I would have already apologized to him and helped him move on… but no, I focused a lot on Zero Two that I forgot how much I affected Mitsuru on that day…"

That was how Zero Two and Raven found him as they came down from the attic…

Zero Two: - Something wrong darling? –

Hiro: - Oh, hi you two… and yeah, you could say that… -

Raven: - Let me guess it has to do with our patient at the infirmary… -

Hiro: - Yeah… and in some way I affected him too just like I did to Naomi, Zero Two and you… -

Both sat down as they let him tell his side of what happened…

Raven: "Well, this certainly will help with Mitsuru's therapy…"

Hiro: - And because of that, I feel guilty for the state he is in now… and worst of all, I haven't come up with an idea of apologizing to him yet… -

Raven: - Well have you tried, you know, talking directly to him about it? –

Hiro: - Oh sure! Let me just waltz to him and say, 'Hey Mitsuru, about that promise I made, I know this sounds crazy but…'. He is NOT going to buy it Raven! –

Raven: - You're right, my bad… -

Zero Two: - Then why don't you try doing it through an intermediary? It worked for me with everyone else when Raven arrived here… -

Both realized she was right, thanks to Raven, interaction between the rest of the squad and Zero Two had smoothed progressively during the first weeks of their mentorship. It was logical that he covered the role again for this situation…

Raven: - Sounds good to me… but even with my help, it's a problem you will have to face Hiro… it would be meaningless if you aren't there to prove Mitsuru that he can trust you again… -

Hiro: - I know… but how do I exactly explain to him the whole issue of my memories being wiped when he actively tries to ignore me? –

Raven: - Simple, I will force him to listen… -

Hiro: - Raven… -

Raven: - Fine, fine, I will see if there is a way, I can make him listen… -

His stomach grumbled as he was thinking about it: - Maybe after dinner, I got a long night to think about it. –

So, they all went towards the kitchen room, where dinner was being served…

The next day…

Mitsuru was awake again and stable, meaning that the moment of change was now as everyone was back at the sortie room hearing Orion's suggestion…

Ichigo: - A partner shuffle? –

Orion: - Yep, we believe that switching your partners will help untap your true potential. In this case, Mitsuru and Ikuno are obvious candidates for the switch so for now we need to see with whom they will resonate better… -

Nana: - It's one of the simple options we have available. So, who wants to volunteer for the change? –

Ikuno: - Nana, sensei, if I will participate can I at least try something? –

Orion: - We're all ears… -

Ikuno: - Has the SMC ever tried Pistil-Pistil and Stamen-Stamen connections before? –

Everyone, except those from the SMC, were confused by her question and Orion soon answered, knowing the meaning behind it: - Hmmmm… not really, technically the simulators had shown we can, but it hasn't been tested in the field, and it would imply lots of heavy modifications to the Database of the NEXTs and we simply don't have the time for that right now. –

Ikuno: - Anyways, can I try such connection with Naomi? In case we run into the situation of losing a Stamen… -

Orion: "Cold way of saying 'in case my prideful partner fails hard'" – Hmmm… I guess we can, but if it fails, who will you select as your Stamen partner? –

That was when Titus interfered: - I volunteer to become her partner in that case. –

Everyone looked at him and Nana said: - Have you talked about this to your partner code 345? Has she said something about this? –

Pari: - As a matter of fact, we did. And considering the interactions I observed between him and Ikuno, I believe he will do better with her and vice versa. –

Nana: - Alright, so are you willing to partner up with code 326 for testing? –

Pari: - Yes… but being sincere, I don't think he and I will be more compatible than him with Ikuno… -

Nana: - Well, that will be a problem unless… is anyone else willing to switch? –

Silence reigned until a hand raised up and everyone saw it belonged to Kokoro…

Kokoro: - I… I'm willing to switch up with Pari! I'm willing to try partnering with Mitsuru! –

Everyone was surprised at her gesture, specially Futoshi…

Futoshi: - Kokoro…! But… what about me? –

Kokoro turned to him and bowed apologizing: - I'm sorry Futoshi… I really am. You're a great partner and a great friend… but it just simply doesn't click between us. As sensei has told us, you and I had shown we have potential… but I feel that's the most we will be able to deliver together… but I believe that if I ride with Mitsuru and you with Pari… then I believe we will finally unleash our true selves… I'm sorry. Hate me all you want but please, let me do this! –

Part of Futoshi wanted to scream 'no' and protest with all his strength… but the other side of him felt resigned, like he expected this to happen sooner or later after what he discovered. His mind was in a turmoil as he tried to react… until he suddenly remembered…

Flashback to the previous night…

Goro: - Futoshi, what did we say about bringing snacks to bed? –

Futoshi: - But I made sure to eat on the plate this time! Look, there's not even a crumb! –

Goro: - Futoshi… -

Futoshi sighed: - Fine, fine, I'll take it down and clean it myself… -

Goro: - And don't do this again, alright? –

Futoshi: - Fine! –

He closed the door and soon went downstairs as he heard the sink still running…

Futoshi: "Oh good! Pari and Kokoro are still cleaning the dishes. I'm lucky today!"

As he got closer to the kitchen however, he soon heard that both the girls were talking about something…

Pari: - So… what are you going to do about it? –

Kokoro: - I… I don't know… part of me wants to keep him happy… but I also want to be happy, and I can't do it completely if I stay with him…

Futoshi: "Huh? Who are they talking about?"

Pari: - So, are you going to say 'no'? –

Kokoro: - I… I don't… -

A slam was heard and Futoshi was afraid that one of the utensils broke and then was surprised to hear Pari talk with a strict tone: - Ok, listen here and listen here very well Kokoro because I will only say it to you once: you MUST make your decision TODAY and NOW. If you're thinking about delaying it you're only going to hurt him because he will be holding on and hoping that you will say yes. Just close the damn gate and window for once! –

Both he and Kokoro were surprised at her outburst, and she soon sighed as she sat in the ground: - I'm sorry Kokoro… is just… is just… -

Kokoro kneeled to her and soon said: - You seem to be more attached to Futoshi than me… why is that Pari? –

Pari: - I… I love him, alright? I like him because of who he is: a lovable little dofus, gluttonous, 'bigboned' as he insists, empathetic, optimistic, kind, respectful but most importantly, decisive. Ever since he has been your partner, he has always been decisive on doing his best to pilot with you, his affection towards you shows it… but it is being wasted on you because you want to help Mitsuru improve and I don't blame you on that… I would do the same for Futoshi too if it was him in trouble… -

Kokoro nodded but soon asked: - But why is it that you… 'love' Futoshi? What exactly does that mean, and why him? –

Futoshi was also curious about that. He knew what 'like' meant but 'love' was still a mysterious word for everyone, even after their sensei explained a little about the concept…

Pari: - I know I love him… because even in my darkest days he could always bring happiness to me and pull me through the pain… and I want to repay it to him by doing the same for him: to illuminate his darkest days so he can pull through them too… just like he did back for me at the Garden. –

Kokoro: - At the Garden? –

Pari: - It all happened because of my skin… I was the only one in the nursery to be brown instead of white like everyone else… and because of that I was always bullied. The rest of the kids would always call me 'poop girl' alongside other derogatory names and stay away from me… thinking I carried some sort of curse. It was a hard time for me… I was alone… without friends and without help… I seriously thought about disappearing because nobody wanted me… *tears started to trickle down her cheeks* but then, Futoshi appeared… I was glooming and depressed when he approached me with a pair of sweet bread…

[Futoshi: - Hi, can I seat with you? –

I ignored him, thinking he was going to ridicule me like everyone else but instead he said: - I will take that as a no… I know! Can I sit with you if I give you one half of my food? –

I was surprised that he had insisted so I looked at him… and I saw a kid that wasn't afraid nor disgusted by me, someone who could be a friend of mine… then my stomach grumbled, and I took one of the breads and ate it… I didn't even realize I was that hungry...

Futoshi: - Huh, you also have an appetite like me! –

We both sat there eating peacefully even though I was nervous… what if he was simply being nice because of a deal or a dare? Because of his own benefit?

Futoshi: - You know… many children told me you were cursed because of your brown skin… -

My heart stopped at that moment, and I braced myself for whatever insult he would throw at me…

Futoshi: - But I think it looks nice on you! You remind me of chocolate, my favorite dessert! Think we can be chocolate buddies? Here, I have one for you if you want to! –

He gave me a bar of chocolate which I ate crying of joy… for I knew I had made a true friend that day…]

Eventually, I also learned that he was in the same boat as me because he was bigger than everybody else… so it was us against the rest until we met Raven, who turned everything around for us. But during the time it was only him and me, I realized it may have been the hardest, but it was also the greatest time I had for the first time as a child… and I'm grateful to him for that…

Kokoro was amazed at learning this: - Then, why didn't you stay with him when we were assigned our partners? –

Pari: - I tried, but unfortunately Titus and I didn't qualify for Dr. Franxx's squad, so we had to be assigned somewhere else… -

Kokoro: - You should have told me sooner! I would have traded my spot with you in that case! Then… -

Pari silenced her and then told her: - No Kokoro… this must be done for YOUR sake, not mine. I already gave it my all in trying to gain his affection but if it isn't enough then it means I'm not worthy of it. If he wants, you and only you… then I will respect his decision. But if such decision depends on you… all I ask you is that you decide firmly once and for all… -

That was when she walked towards the stairs and Futoshi had no choice but to leave the plate on one of the nightstands and run away towards the men's bathroom, where he stayed there for some time, just thinking on what he heard…

Back to the present…

He could easily blame it on Pari for Kokoro's decision but after everything he read and heard about her affection to her, it all finally clicked: Pari loved him unconditionally and to turn her emotions away for any longer would be the most disgusting thing he would have ever done after starting it all up… so he silenced his jealous side for once and answered: - Fine… Kokoro, you can go with Mitsuru. I agree to the swap. –

Everyone was surprised at how he calmly accepted the swap without even protesting… specially Kokoro who seemed to be glad as she said: - R-really? You-you mean it? –

Futoshi: - Well… there's no point trying to resist the change in the end. So yeah… you can go Kokoro. But first! –

He walked straight towards Mitsuru with firm steps and with a strength nobody remembered he had (probably because he was actually big boned and his fat hid it well), he grabbed Mitsuru from his shirt with both his hand and talked to him with a serious tone: - Mitsuru, Kokoro is trusting you AND herself to help you stay with us and I will not go against her wishes… BUT if you dare do something STUPID that endangers her life more than the usual… I. WILL. BEAT. YOU. UP! –

Mitsuru would usually dismiss this sort of threats but after seeing Futoshi actually LETTING GO of Kokoro and acting… mature about the switch… he was doing an exception to that as he was genuinely shocked to how different he was acting… which also made him realize another thing: "Dammit! Even Futoshi can change!? That means that I'm literally the only one that hasn't changed at all since the start! Dammit!" At last, he was realizing late that his grudge was making getting him stuck in the past and he SERIOUSLY needed to let it go soon enough or the risk of being pruned would become real…

Orion: - Futoshi! Let him go now! –

Futoshi did so and bowed to Orion: - Apologies sensei… just getting the point out… -

Orion: - You got balls, I respect that. –

The seriousness of the situation was again, averted as nobody understood what he meant.

Raven: - *Sighs* He means you are brave Futoshi. Brave for both threatening Mitsuru and doing so in front of the adults all for the sake of Kokoro. –

Everyone soon sighed once they understood as Futoshi thought: "Well, I have to be. It is my last gift to her after everything… I just want her safe even if it's not with me… *he then looked at Pari who was watching him totally surprised with what he did* because I will soon have to pour all of my efforts into becoming the best partner for Pari…"

Ichigo: - Right… well, as we can see Nana, the new partnerships are now sortied out. –

Nana: - Understood, we will update the database as soon as we can. But before we continue, captain Orion has an announcement for Raven and Naomi. –

Everyone was now curious as Sally and Orion looked serious at the two…

Raven: "Now what's the problem?"

Naomi: - What's the matter? Did we do something bad? –

Orion: - No… but it is more in the lines that you will be forced to do so… -

Raven: - What happened? Now what did the big coats of High Command ordered us to do? –

Orion: - Raven, they managed to unlock another of the 'Overed' weapons. They want to test it on White Glint. –

Everyone soon got the gist that it wasn't something good when Raven paled at the mention of them and took a step back before stammering: - T-the 'Overed' weapons? The ones who are supposed to be UNDER LOCK BECAUSE THEY'RE ALL CLASSIFIED AS WMD'S!? –

Orion: - Yes… specifically the Giga-Cannon… -

Raven: - THE GIGA-CANNON!? THE ONE THAT LITERALLY USES KOJIMA ENERGY AS ITS MAIN PAYLOAD!? ARE THEY CRAZY!? AND THEY WANT ME AND NAOMI TO BECOME THE GUINEA PIGS!? –

Now Squad 13 was in a panic… specifically Zero Two and Hiro who understand what he meant based on their experience…

Titus: - Are they really that bad to use? –

Raven: - LITERALLY HUNDREDS OF LYNXS DIED WHEN TESTING ONLY ONE OF THE WEAPONS! They are simply too powerful for even a NEXT to handle! –

Orion: - All except one… White Glint. –

Even so, everyone's response was unanimous…

Squad 13: - THEY CAN'T DO THAT! –

Ichigo: - Sensei, with all the respect I can muster, I refuse that…! –

Orion: - I'm afraid that there's no other choice. This is a direct order from the SMC High Command alongside the District Council. Raven and Naomi CANNOT disobey this time, or they will be considered traitors and dealt accordingly. –

Now everyone was shocked… their friends were basically being forced now! They simply had no other choice but to obey to be subjected to such a high-risk test…

Naomi: - We-we don't have a say? Is that what you mean? -

Orion: - I'm sorry… even I don't like this idea but there's no other way. This is something that LYNXs are supposed to be prepared for… even if the chances are very small… I'm afraid that you will have to face this head on, there's no sugarcoating it. –

Naomi and Raven stood silent alongside everyone else… they could lose their friends here and by the own hand of the organization that trained them and gave them hope!

Zero Two: - So that's it?! After all of what big brother has done for you and the SMC, he is just going to be tossed like a used tool?! –

Orion: - We're not dropping him into the deepest part of the lake without precautions, Zero Two! The same guys that unlocked the weapon already designed and produced restrictor and limiter software, hardware, and many other equipment that will optimize Raven and Naomi's chances! –

Hiro: *Serious* - By how much? –

Orion: - The original survival rate was located at 10%... with this safety equipment it will be boosted to 35%. –

Hiro: "That's not enough, there's literally more than 1 in a 2 chance that both Naomi and Raven will perish!"

Goro: - That isn't enough! –

Orion: - I know, but that's only the equipment bonus, the procedure will also give another bonus… -

Raven: - How? –

Orion: - You are not going to shoot the weapon Raven. Orders are to literally activate it and keep it active for at least 60 seconds. NO shooting. This boosts your survival rate another 15%. –

Naomi: - So 45% only? It is almost a 1 in 2 chance… -

Orion: - It's the best we can do… the weapon right now is being installed in White Glint as we speak. We will use the next sortie to test it, meaning that on the next mission squad 13 will have to participate without White Glint. Dismissed! –

Zero Two wanted to protest but knew it would be useless. Orion was comprehensive but also strict and when there was no room for protest, he would ignore all complaints from that point on. Eventually, Raven and Naomi left alongside Orion and Sally leaving everyone in a sour mood, now realizing that the 2 friends that made it possible to all of them to become an elite squad had a good chance of dying. This was new for everyone… they had faced death innumerable times but never felt this feeling of dread because they always believed (and in some way knew) that they would always return home alive… well, everyone but one…

Mitsuru: "I have to talk with Raven… now before it's too late."

Sometime later…

Hachi: - Chlorophytum's levels are non-existent. You have already timed-out… -

Both Naomi and Ikuno were at the simulator chamber trying to perform a connection, with Naomi taking the Stamen seat while Ikuno was the Pistil…

Naomi sighed as she answered: - Roger… well we tried Ikuno, but it simply didn't work… -

Ikuno: "Dammit, I was so sure it would!" – I was being serious about trying… -

Before Naomi could ask what, she meant, she stepped of the console and go out of the simulator. Naomi soon followed as they waited for the results of the other two…

Hachi: - Genista and Alstroemeria levels are stable… you both are cleared to pilot. –

Nana: - They are bigger than their initial ones. Maybe this was the correct course of action… -

Hachi: - Alright, code 196, switch to your Pistil suit and prepare to connect with code 345. –

Ikuno was already changing the moment the message broadcasted and as she exited the changing room, she found Titus already waiting for her alongside Mitsuru…

Ikuno: - You can laugh if you must… it was… -

Mitsuru: - I don't blame you for trying… Titus explained to me that it matters to you… -

Ikuno looked surprised at both, Titus giving her a wink as he added: - He also knows about me too and I may and may have not threatened him by saying that if he goes wild, then Raven and Futoshi will have their way with him… -

Ikuno: - Huh, so it turns out you can express emotions in the end, it suits you. –

Mitsuru grumbled but nevertheless didn't deny the fact that he felt 'truer' with himself when opening a little…

Eventually, Naomi soon came out and said: - Alright, are you two ready? –

Titus: - More than never… -

Ikuno: - Yes… -

Naomi: - Alright… good luck at the simulator… I will go back to the board house… -

Mitsuru: - Mind if I accompany you? –

Naomi: - Um… sure… -

They soon split their ways and as they walked, Naomi soon said: - Alright, what's the matter now Mitsuru? You usually… -

Mitsuru: - I know, listen I need to talk with Raven and you're the best way to find him… it is important… -

Naomi: - Haven't you thought of asking Haro? –

Mitsuru: - I don't know where he is… also, how can you be so calm considering that soon you're going to…? –

Naomi: - There's no point in letting the dread overshadow me Mitsuru. I'm still alive and as such, I will still live how I want to live. –

Mitsuru: "Totally different to how you were acting when both you and Hiro failed and were to be sent to the Orphanage… you truly have changed…"

Naomi: - Anyways… I can only accompany you to the board house. If Raven isn't there, you will have to find him alone. I have to find a way to make sure Zero Two doesn't do anything crazy. –

Mitsuru: - Why? It kind of fits her sometimes… -

Naomi: - Yeah… but considering what she just heard, she may become restless because she will worry for Raven. –

Mitsuru reflected on that and soon said: - I hate saying this… but that… girl has really changed… a lot. "And I'm still the same… how ironic…" –

Naomi: - Yeah… from being clingy to Hiro to now being clingy to me, him, and Raven… -

Mitsuru: "It wasn't what I meant… but I guess she is right…"

Meanwhile at the board house…

Futoshi: - Man… it sucks… *ñam* even if I agreed to it… it still hurts… *ñom* -

Haro: - Futoshi need more snacks? –

Our friend zoned fella was stress-eating back at the boy's dorm while being comforted by the rest of his friends and Haro. Turns out that the little robot helper could carry food and was using Raven's personal storage to supply Futoshi's appetite. Even so, he was careful on not giving him too much…

Futoshi: - What exactly does Kokoro see in Mitsuru? –

Goro: - Maybe she is like Orion and sees his potential but on a different perspective. I mean, even me and Ichigo can see it too, the problem being his attitude. –

Futoshi: - That still doesn't explain it! *Ñom* -

Zorome: - There, there big guy… you better calm down soon or otherwise Raven is going to throw a fit for his snacks… -

Futoshi: - That doesn't help! *ñom ñom* -

As he continued to eat, they all heard the door open and soon saw it was Mitsuru. He looked like he was in a hurry and as he looked around the room, he seemed disappointed…

Mitsuru: - He is not here… -

Futoshi: - Hey! You! –

Mitsuru looked at him a little annoyed: - Now what? –

Futoshi: - Do you have the slightest idea of how I'm feeling right now because of you? *Ñom* -

Mitsuru was about to throw him an insult but calmed himself down remembering his objective and said: - Look, I know you don't feel good but right now I'm in a hurry and can't discuss this. Has anyone seen Raven? –

It was Hiro who responded: - He went to the lake with Zero Two… something to calm her down after today's announcement… I can take you with them. –

Mitsuru: "Great, just what I needed…"

He wasn't in the mood to confront the reason of his actual status, so he soon denied him and said: - No thanks… I will find my way… -

Hiro: - Mitsuru please, I can help you with… -

Mitsuru: - I said no! I'll do it myself! –

He then left slamming on the door…

Goro: - What has gotten into him? –

Futoshi: - This makes me worry more for Kokoro… -

Hiro: - Don't be… it is clear he needs some moments alone like Zero Two… - "Apologizing to him is going to be harder than I expected…"

Meanwhile, at the lake…

Raven was fishing or at least trying to as no fish was being caught in the hook and his mind seemed to always think on what happened earlier… and there was also the fact that his little sister wasn't helping improve the mood…

Zero Two: - This is boring… my way of fishing is way better and faster… -

Raven: - I don't blame you there… it was the first one we learned before we used sticks and rope for fishing rods… -

He sighed as he reeled the hook and put his fishing rod on the ground, giving up on the activity…

Zero Two: - Brother, do you really have to do this? –

Raven: - There's no alternative sis… better to have it done at once and prepare myself for it… -

Zero Two: - There is an alternative! You have served them for years and I know they value your opinion more than ours in here! You can refuse in other ways! –

Raven: - Zero Two… -

Zero Two: - You can simply mount White Glint and flee away until they get the message, or maybe even destroy that weapon if it brings that much trouble, or even… -

Raven: - Zero Two, that's enough! –

His tone was serious and Zero Two realized that he wasn't leaving room for arguments: - But why? Why would you even consider doing this? –

Raven: - It's my duty as a LYNX, Zero Two. It is what me and Naomi signed up for… -

Zero Two: - But why? I don't understand, this "duty" you speak of will kill you! And I… and I… -

Raven went towards her and patted her head: - Zero Two… I understand you are looking for mine and Naomi's wellbeing… -

Zero Two: - After what you did for me and my darling to reunite us and recover his memories… is the least I could do… I really like being your little sister Raven… and I'm afraid that… -

Raven: - I understand… but let's say that in the end me and Naomi do refuse and, by some miracle, we don't receive any sort of consequence for it… but do you really think that it will stop there? *As she weakly denies with her head, he continues…* That's right, it won't. Just like what APE did to you, the SMC will do the same with another couple. And just like APE wouldn't stop sending stamens to their deaths just to get Strelizia at full capacity, the SMC will do the same until they get the data they want for. That's more than enough reason for me to at least try, so that I can spare those future pilots from all those hardships… -

Zero Two: - But… what if it isn't enough? What if you die for nothing? –

Raven: - Then I'll make sure to die with a bonus… if everything comes down to worse, I'll overload the weapon and make sure it goes down with me… -

Zero Two hugged him really tight and he reciprocated the hug: - I'm really worried for you… what if it becomes our last day together? –

Raven: - Then let's make the best of it… *Remembers something* Oh, I just remembered. In that case, I have a gift I wanted to give you and Hiro for the next Present Day, but it seems like… -

He was interrupted as the sirens started blasting the alarm. Soon enough, both left the lake and rushed back towards the board house…

A few moments earlier…

Mitsuru: "Me and my stupid pride… I couldn't even find the correct lake…"

After fruitlessly exploring the woods nearby, Mitsuru gave up as he didn't know which lake Raven usually frequented, so he returned towards the board house and on his way, he passed through the green house to which she heard Kokoro say something to someone… confused he entered to check on her and saw that she was talking to… an holo-screen? And she was also carrying a doll…

Kokoro: - And in here we have jasmines! They're as white as your father's hair and little Lily favorites too! See? –

She then used her arms to make it look like the doll was hugging the flowers which was when Mitsuru interrupted…

Mitsuru: - What are you doing? –

Kokoro: - Eeep! –

She was surprised enough to drop the doll and for a book to fall out from her pocket. Mitsuru could only get a glimpse of it before she hurriedly picked it up and put it back into her pocket.

Mitsuru: "'Your first baby'? What sort of book is that? I will have to ask sensei later… might as well help her…"

He went and picked up her doll: - Here… -

Kokoro was blushing as she recovered it: - Thank you… -

Mitsuru: - What is it that you were doing? –

Kokoro: - I… I… I was simply… recording a video about the greenhouse… for little Aurora. –

Mitsuru: - For Aurora? But she is in the… -

Kokoro: - I know, but she likes to hear from me, and her parents gave me their "e-mail" so that I could write her electronic letters and just recently I realized I could also send pictures and videos through it, so I had been lately sending her little tours around the board house. –

He noted how she smiled warmly as she talked about it, seemingly proud of bringing entertainment to the little child…

Mitsuru decided to inquire a little: - Since when are you that interested on her? She is Boris and Olivia's responsibility… -

Kokoro: - I know… but… there's something deep inside me that feels obligated to also… help her with her happiness… because I know that in some way, her happiness is also my happiness too… -

Mitsuru reflected on what she meant and found some wisdom on her words: in the few times he met the little girl, he saw that she was quite similar to how he was back in the Garden… and for some reason he felt an awful dread whenever he thought of her suffering the same hardship, he had on that day Hiro broke his promise…

Mitsuru: "Wait why am I even bothering to understand her feelings? She is not my responsibility! … But that doesn't stop Kokoro… does that mean?" – So, that's why you volunteered to ride with me? Because you see my happiness as yours? –

Kokoro blushed but smiled warmly as she nodded…

Mitsuru felt something in his chest at her confirmation… something that he didn't know how to react… it felt like a sting but at the same time it didn't hurt… something… unique…

Mitsuru: "What exactly is this feeling…?"

Before he could think more about it, the alarm blasted off, and both ran towards the lobby…

Minutes later, at the hangars…

Hachi: /A Gutenberg klaxosaur unit is on route towards the S-planning site! You're to intercept before it reaches the drills!/

Everyone was in the process of boarding their Franxx when Futoshi yelled at Mitsuru as they were about to step in…

Futoshi: - Mitsuru! Remember what I told you! Take good care of Kokoro or else! –

Mitsuru was at his limit tolerating Futoshi's rants and before Kokoro could stop him, he yelled: - You really think I'm that heartless?! How about you?! Have you and Pari talked with each other to consolidate your bond?! –

Needless to say, all 4 of them didn't expect that to hear that…

Futoshi: "Dammit, he is right! I haven't even say a word to her!"

Pari: "Couldn't this have waited AFTER the operation?"

Mitsuru: "Why did I say that?! I was thinking of another phrase!"

Kokoro: "Can't you all behave like adults for once?!"

Then they heard Titus shout from Chlorophytum's access…

Titus: - HEY! I know that right now things are tense between you 4 but we got a duty to fulfill! So, stow up whatever comments you have and save them for later or sensei will have your asses! –

His message got the desired effect as they didn't want to be disciplined again and entered their franxxs.

Ikuno: - Huh, who would have thought that you had it in you… -

Titus: - Raven and Naomi need to be relaxed for the test, and for that we have to avoid infighting and total focus on the battlefield. Anyways, ready to unleash our potential? –

Ikuno: - Sure. –

Meanwhile, Raven and Naomi were near Strelizia as they were watching Zero Two and Hiro board the franxx…

Zero Two: - It's a shame you won't fight with us today… -

Raven: - The installation of the O.W. isn't done yet. As such, White Glint cannot deploy with you this time… -

Hiro: - I think is for the best, you will need all your skills and wits for the upcoming test… -

Raven: - Yeah, I guess you're right… -

Naomi: - Stay safe you two! Remember that even without us, you can do this! –

Raven: - Pray for answer… -

Zero Two and Hiro: - Pray for answer… -

Soon enough, squad 13 deployed and were ready to receive the enemy…

Argentea: - Eyes on the target! It's coming in fast! –

Delphinium: - Alright, this is the plan! Argentea, me, and Strelizia will be striking the beast. Alstroemeria, you will be the backup in case things go astray! Chlorophytum, Genista, you will provide covering fire and strike from afar! Got it everyone? –

Squad 13: - Roger! –

The klaxosaur was soon in range, and the vanguard sprinted into action, Strelizia taking the lead…

Delphinium: - Woah, why the rush now Stre? –

Strelizia: - I need to release some steam, alright?! You know why! –

Delphinium: "Right, the test…" – Alright, but don't let yourself be clouded by it! If I tell you an order, I expect you to follow! –

Strelizia: - Why do you have to be so bossy?! – *Jumps and stabs at the upper back of the klaxosaur creating a big hole on it.*

Delphinium: - Is what Raven would do too! And you know why! –

Both she and Argentea leaped towards the front legs and injured them enough to slow down the klaxosaur…

Delphinium: - It is open, light it up! –

Chlorophytum and Genista soon opened fire at the hole that Strelizia made, and all shots rang true, splitting in two the creature and leaving the core wide open! Strelizia tried to jump towards it, only to be surprised as the Gutenberg seemed to split itself into the same Conrads that attacked earlier!

Strelizia: - What the hell?! –

Alstroemeria soon swept in and hooked her out of trouble: - How? I thought klaxosaurs where all simple individuals! –

Orion: /Some of them are conformed by a union of lesser category klaxos! This one is one of them! Watch it!/

Raven: /Careful, these ones have a hive mind, meaning they're smarter!/

The little Conrads used their numbers to force Strelizia away from the core. She was soon overwhelmed by the quantity and couldn't slay them fast enough to get a clear shot…

Strelizia: - The core is right there! –

Hiro: - Genista, Chlorophytum, this is your chance! –

Chlorophytum: - I can't aim at it directly, Genista will have to do this! –

Naomi: /You can do it!/

Orion: /Let's see if you learned well enough about ballistics! Remember the configurations, Kokoro!/

Genista: - Roger! –

The green franxx deployed its visor and a large bipod deployed from the middle section of the Rook Sparrow while the butt extended, and soon enough Genista had changed into artillery configuration…

Genista: - Switch completed, one K.W.S. (Kojima Warhead Shell) coming up! –

She loaded the shell into a secondary port inside the main chamber and aimed…

Genista: - Calibration almost complete… firing in 3… 2… 1… -

But just as she was about to pull the trigger, her face shut down and the green mech collapsed on her knees!

Hachi: /Genista's synchronization collapsed!/

Everyone: - ARE YOU SERIOUS!? –

Raven: /FOR F***'S SAKE MITSURU! YOU HAD IT! HOW?!/

Strelizia: - MITSURU, YOU DAMN HYPOCRITE! YOU COMPLAINED ALL THIS TIME AGAINST MY DARLING BEING UNABLE TO PULL HIS WEIGHT AND LOOK AT THE IRONY NOW! –

Delphinium: - Mitsuru, Kokoro! What the hell happened there?! –

Alstroemeria: - Look out! –

It seemed that the Conrads sensed the weak link from the group as all of them started to rush towards the green franxx, with Chlorophytum trying her best to shoot them down…

Chlorophytum: - We are in trouble! I cannot outgun them all! –

Alstroemeria: - Hang in there! –

The yellow franxx rushed forward and dispatched a lot of the Connies in tandem with Chlorophytum and soon yelled: - Are you coming to help, or should we take care of this alone?! -

Delphinium: - We're on our way! Just let us… -

A roar forced the vanguard to look back at the original creature as to their horror, the two halves reformed themselves into two independent klaxosaurs!

Raven: /Another hydra unit!? This is bad, you got now two to take care of!/

No sooner he said this, one of the reformed klaxosaurs attacked the vanguard units who managed to dodge in time… but it soon became clear that it had a vendetta with them and went on the offensive…

Argentea: - Woah! This one is mad! –

Delphinium: - We can't support our friends with this guy nipping at our heels! We have to defeat it first! –

Strelizia: - I can use my speed! Just stall it for… -

She was interrupted as the second klaxosaur tried slapping her away with its tail only for Hiro to barely dodge it…

Strelizia: - Hnnnngh! –

The high g-force maneuver did leave Strelizia a little dizzy…

Strelizia: - Darling! Careful next time! –

Hiro: - Sorry! –

Argentea: - Look out! –

She managed to force Strelizia down on the ground just as the klaxosaur tried to finish off the red franxx with a swipe. Both franxx's soon made the logic decision of regrouping with Delphinium…

Delphinium: - This is bad… we cannot reach our friends with these two in front of us… we have to try taking one at a time… -

Argentea and Strelizia: - Roger! –

Delphinium: - Alstroemeria, Chlorophytum! Stick to Genista until she reboots! We will buy time for you! –

Alstroemeria and Chlorophytum: - Alright! –

Delphinium: - Mitsuru! I should have told you this a long time ago, maybe ever since we were in the Garden… but GET. OVER. YOUR. GRUDGE. WITH. HIRO! Today you hit bottom isolating yourself from us because of it! –

And while this happened, back at the hangar both Raven and Naomi were looking worried at the situation…

Raven: - They're split and unable to support each other… the vanguard needs the fire support to finish off the Gutenbergs and the rearguard needs their melee capabilities to beat off the horde of Connies… -

Naomi: - But they will be able to beat it, right? They have to do so at some point… we won't be there always to help them Raven and considering we're getting closer to the Garden… -

Raven: - I know… but I still feel that they aren't ready to go alone… and I feel justified on that… -

He said this just as he saw the Conrads fused into another Gutenberg as both Chlorophytum and Alstroemeria were effective at containing them and soon charged at them. Both Chlorophytum and Alstroemeria did their best to hold it off, but the Gutenberg was gaining ground… then Genista got in all fours and was activating her Stampede mode which then made him mad…

Raven: "For HELL's sake!" *Grabs White Glint's intercom and shouts…* - MITSURU! YOU BETTER PUSH OFF KOKORO FROM THE PISTIL SEAT OR ELSE…! –

His fury was calmed when he saw the green franxx stop mid-transformation and soon turned into happiness as he then saw Genista reactivate and Mitsuru soon say out loud: - We're back… sorry for the delay… let's finish this! –

And to his great joy, Genista's performance skyrocketed as she fired the K.W.S. into the Gutenberg's mouth… and it was powerful enough to blow up its face and expose its core long enough for Alstroemeria to use her Thorn Stingers to hook her way at it and slash it off!

Orion: /One Gutenberg down! Mitsuru, we WILL be having a BIG talk once you return… focus now on assisting your friends with the second one!/

Raven turned towards Naomi in happiness: - I will be giving him a piece of my mind but I'm glad that… -

However, when he saw that she wasn't smiling, he got worried…

Raven: - Naomi? –

Naomi: - Raven… I… I had that feeling again… a "premonition" of something bad to come… -

Raven got into alert as she said this and when he grabbed her hand to ask about it, both suddenly felt a flash go through as their minds seemed to suddenly connect as the 'premonition' was seen by both…

Raven and Naomi: "W-what is this? How are we watching this?! Wait… is… is this related… to the dreams we had?"

They would dwell later on that as what they "saw" wasn't pretty: it showed their friends struggling against a different klaxosaur that they easily recognized… and it ended with the beast clearly snapping its jaws against them, the implications very clear… and that was when both snapped back into the present…

Naomi: - Raven… does this mean? –

She was about to enter a panic attack but soon Raven calmed her and said: - It does… but it doesn't mean it will happen… not if we do something about it… -

He said that as she and him looked at White Glint… a resolve pushing them on…

Naomi: - So… I guess this means it could be our last sortie… -

Raven: - At least we will be able to shoot down two birds with one stone… -

At the battlefield…

The Gutenbergs were laying now dead, Squad 13 just barely being able to pull it together thanks to Genista's intervention at the last minute… which was why everyone was basically unleashing all their frustration on her, or more specifically on her Stamen…

Delphinium: - Mitsuru! You have crossed the line this time! Not only did your flaw made us ALMOST lose but you also endangered Kokoro by allowing her to try entering Stampede mode! Do you have anything to say for yourself?! –

They were all surprised when he did respond: - I do… I know I'm at fault for everything that went bad today… I was prideful, careless, and a hazard to everyone in the team today… and I don't deserve to be forgiven for what I caused… if you want me out of the squad then… -

Ichigo: - Stop! That's enough Mitsuru… *Sighs* All I'm saying is that you will be punished severely when we return… I'm just glad that you moved on late better than never… -

Mitsuru smiled while everyone else soon expressed their own opinions on him, most of them reprimanding him…

Futoshi: - I swear that if both of you end up irreversibly injured because of your shenanigans, I'm making sure to add one more to you Mitsuru! We could have ended in a worse position thanks to you! –

Pari: "Well… it's a progress seeing him worry more equally with us instead of favoring Kokoro now…"

Zorome: - You created more trouble than what me and Miku sometimes do, Mitsuru! Not cool! –

Miku: - I agree! And that says a LOT! –

Titus: - If you're going to pull this spiel every time, I might as well ask Pari to use her Thorn Stingers to tie you up to a post while we do the job… -

And so on and so on went until Hiro took his turn…

Hiro: - Mitsuru… can I finally speak to you now? –

Considering all of what happened, he finally decided to let the inevitable occur: - What do you need? –

Hiro: - There's a lot I need to talk about with you… and it has to do with what happened back then… when I made that promise. –

Mitsuru: "Wait, what? But didn't he said that he didn't remember it?! What the hell?!" *Even so, he sighed and decided to listen to him* - Fine… but only if I can bring Kokoro alongside me… -

Hiro: - I will also bring Raven and Zero Two… they're needed for it… -

Whatever Mitsuru was about to answer, he was interrupted as the alarms blared on their franxx's and Orion shouted into the intercom…

Orion: /GET OUT OF THERE NOW!/

Having learned to not hesitate when he gave an order, the whole squad just managed to evade as the ground below their previous spot break open and out of it a GIANT klaxosaur appeared! It looked like a freaking worm, bigger than the ones they had previously encountered and it looked DEADLY as it showed it had a dragon face!

Orion: /A Reaper wyrm! This one is bad! Squad 13, do NOT engage! I repeat! Do NOT engage and retreat towards the Plantations! Atlas squad will take care of this one!/

Delphinium: - Roger! Let's get out of here everyone! –

Unfortunately, they didn't get that far as the wyrm instantly made a ring around them and trapped them inside!

(Play "Contact with you" from Armored Core VI Fires of Rubicon)

Delphinium: - We're trapped! Argentea, Strelizia, cut us a way out of here! The rest of you, help me contain the big guy! –

Squad 13: - Roger! –

Strelizia and Argentea soon charged and slashed and hacked with all their might as the other 4 shoot and distracted the wyrm from attacking them… but it was soon clear that the skin of the creature was too thick to destroy and soon became worse, as the scales revealed to have 'eyes' that could shoot lasers!

Argentea: - Is no use! Whatever damage we do to it, it regenerates instantly! And those lasers are eating our PA! –

Strelizia: - Boss! Our only option left is to escape! We have to jump over! –

Delphinium: *Dodging a laser spray* "Dammit! This creature is insufferable!" - There's no other choice, everyone, we have to run! –

They activated their busters but just as they jumped, the wyrm lunged forward at them!

Strelizia: - LOOK OUT! –

She maneuvered mid-air and tried to block its lunge by stabbing it on the eye! Unfortunately, it only deviated its strike and infuriated the beast! The impact forced all 6 franxx's away into the its scales, impacting HARD that it broke their PA's!

Squad 13: - AAAARGH! –

The one who took the worst was Strelizia, as she impacted so hard against the scaly wall that it forced a disconnection! Zero Two and Hiro felt intense pain on their backs and were having trouble staying conscious…

Hiro: - Uuugh… Zero Two… are you… alright? –

Zero Two: - Darling… my… back… grrrrrrr… -

Hiro: - We... we have to… get back… up… -

As both regained their senses, they soon saw in horror that the wyrm was directly in front of them. And it was angry…

Zero Two/Hiro: - SH**! –

The wyrm then used its head to SLAM Strelizia into the wall and started to apply pressure on her, intent on crushing her!

Zero Two: - Aaaaaargh! –

Hiro: - No, no, NO! HELP! –

The creature ignored their cries alongside those of their friends as they tried to stand up…

Delphinium: - Hiro! Zero Two! –

Argentea: - NOOOO! –

Genista, Alstroemeria, and Chlorophytum: - STRELIZIA! –

FWOOOOSH!

To everyone's surprise, a fast projectile collided with the back of the wyrm's head, lifting it as it roared in pain before being pestered by a barrage of similar ones!

White Glint: - LEAVE… MY… SISTER… ALONE! –

The White mech flew by, gaining the wyrm's attention as it continued shooting from his laser shotguns!

Squad 13: - WHITE GLINT! –

Orion: /Raven, Naomi, what are you two doing?!/

White Glint: - Our duty! –

The wyrm then lunged at the NEXT, only for this one to fly away, luring him away from the recovering squad 13… this left a window in which Delphinium used to aid Strelizia…

Delphinium: - Hiro, Zero Two! Please respond! Are you both alright?! –

Zero Two was coughing as she recovered while Hiro used the moment to give her some first aid in the form of painkillers.

Hiro: - Still alive… but Zero Two took a big hit… -

Delphinium: - Alright. Argentea, help me carry her! We have to return now! –

Argentea soon did so and both franxx soon carried the downed red franxx while they finally escaped the imprisonment as White Glint continued to lure away the wyrm. Once at a safe distance, Delphinium soon said: - White Glint, we're clear! You can return now! –

Orion: /Follow her Raven, Atlas squad is ready to deploy, we will…/

White Glint: - No… -

Delphinium/Orion: - What?! –

White Glint: - We're finishing two birds with one stone… you wanted data chief? Here's the chance… -

That was when everyone suddenly realized what Raven meant as the O.W. gear started unfolding!

Orion: /Raven! Abort! The safety equipment is not installed yet! ABORT!/

Delphinium: - Raven, don't do this! We just made it a lesson to not put your partner in peril! –

Naomi: - We know… I'm doing this too… -

Ikuno: - But Naomi… this could KILL YOU BOTH! –

Naomi smiled and said: - We know… it is a risk we're willing to take… -

Zero Two seemed to get a rush of adrenaline as she lunged at the screen: - Please, don't do this! Please! I… I can't lose you two! Please! –

Raven: - Sorry sis… but it's to give a message to everyone… -

Zero Two: - Brother please! What sort of message to risk yourselves like this?! –

Raven: - That we will do our best to fulfill our duty… that being first towards the family I created… don't worry… we will return… -

That was when the O.W. gear connected to the main system and the A.I. went batshit!

A.I: - Un̵knowu̴n̵i̶t̵̷h̶a̷s̴̵c̴o̷n̷n̵ec̷te̶d̴.̴.̵.̴̵s̶y̷s̷t̴e̷m̶i̷n̶j̷eo̷p̷ar̴d̶y̶,̵̵re̴co̷m̵m̴en̷d̵i̴m̶me̷d̵i̷a̷t̵e̷̷t̶e̵r̴m̵i̴n̵a̴t̷i̷o̵n̴̶o̷f̴̴u̴s̵e̴.̵.̵. -

Raven/Naomi: - GGGGGRRRRRRRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHH! –

It felt like they were taking THOUSANDS of stabs throughout all their nervous system! They soon started to see red as their bodies instantly protested the toll the weapon was taking on them! This made their friends panic as they saw them in extreme pain and their NEXT starting to act in a frenzy too!

Orion: - ABORT RAVEN! THAT IS AN ORDER!

Zero Two: - RAVEN! BIG BROTHER! –

Ichigo: - STOP THIS MADNESS! PLEASE, STOP! –

Squad 13: - RAVEN! NAOMI! –

But they both ignored them, and they soon saw the NEXT stopping as it loaded the weapon while the wyrm was charging head on at him! However, to their surprise, it stopped as it seemed to sense what was about to follow!

White Glint: - É̷͎a̷̦̋t̶̳͗.̶̣́..̴̵̥̪͐̕t̵͚̀h̶̙͊i̴͓̇s!̵̻̃!-

(Stop the music…)

Then, a brilliant flash happened that forced everyone to close their eyes as a sonic boom followed soon after… and as soon as everyone adjusted to the sudden brightness, they all saw something that shocked them to the core… the klaxosaur… was disintegrating! The weapon had left such a clean hole throughout its body and the leftover energy was eating it atom by atom! Soon enough, the head disappeared followed by the neck, then the upper body and soon the rest…

Orion: - Mother of mercy… this… this is beyond a WMD… - "Now we are all irredeemable sinners… destroyer of worlds… DAMN HIGH COMMAND!"

He soon got a notification inside his holo-watch as it announced: /Data retrieval successful. Compilation compressed in folder…/

He then took it off from him and threw it angrily into the floor of Arthur's platform as he soon shouted: - Sally, we have to get out there NOW! Atlas squad, emergency deployment! Haro, come with us! –

Sally: - Alright… -

Haro: - Haro reporting! –

As Arthur exited the hangar, the watch was soon picked up…

Dr. Franxx: - Now I wonder what I should do with this… -

And as this happened, the shock from earlier vanished as Squad 13 saw White Glint collapse on the ground after the shot, its frame surrounded by heavy amounts of a green fog and steam…

White Glint's A.I: - Heavy overheating detected… switching to 'idle' mode… opening emergency ventilation ports… Kojima radiation detected… sealing cabin… -

The Giga-Cannon went back into its folded configuration as White Glint released LOTS of steam and the plates on the 'face' sealed shut. Strelizia was the first one to rush at the NEXT, possessed by desperation…

Strelizia: - BROTHER! –

Hiro: - Naomi! Raven! Are you still alive?! RESPOND! –

Arthur: - STAY AWAY! –

The knight NEXT forced the red franxx away as Atlas squad soon stood between the white NEXT and the rest of the squad…

Strelizia: - LET ME THROUGH! I HAVE TO…! –

Arthur: - LISTEN! IT'S DANGEROUS, HE COULD BE CONTAMINATED WITH KOJIMA RADIATION! –

Delphinium: - What do you mean?! –

Arthur: - I will explain but stay put! Skylark! Use your drones and start an emergency decontamination system! –

Skylark: - Understood… -

She sent Talon towards White Glint and the eagle drone started absorbing part of the Kojima remnants into him before flying away to release them and then returning to repeat. While this happened, Orion soon explained: - Listen, Kojima radiation is deadly, like very deadly in comparison to that of nuclear energy for its effects are felt faster than normal radiation. And as you have just seen, the amount used by White Glint is more than enough to DISINTEGRATE a Reaper class. For your safety, you MUST stay clear from White Glint! –

Chlorophytum: - But what about Raven and Naomi?! They're inside the EPICENTER of it! –

Arthur: - We know! That's why every single NEXT cabin is equipped with NBC cabins and equipment! Right now, White Glint's cabin is sealed shut to avoid the radiation filtering in! We won't be able to extract them until the radiation levels drop low enough! –

Skylark: - Contamination clearance achieved… Talon secured the way sir. –

Everyone looked at the holographic eagle who seemed to make a smug face before returning to its owner and Arthur soon going towards White Glint…

Arthur: - Haro! Get in the external port access and assess White Glint! –

Haro soon came out through a compartment at the top and flew towards the NEXT, where he settled upon an external port at the top…

Haro: - Scanning… scanning… assessment complete, Haro! –

He soon shared it all with everyone as they read it with tense… and soon released it as they saw an image file of the cabin of Raven flipping them off alongside Naomi who had a thumbs up… the file also said: "We lived b***es." Both looked EXTREMELY tired though…

Orion: - Even after forcing his body to the limits, still finds the energy to amuse us… -

Zero Two felt a giant wave of relief upon her mixed with melancholy as she thought: "Brother… Naomi… you two would really go that far… just to keep your promise?"

Delphinium: *Sighs* - I guess we should return now… -

Arthur: - Actually, this time it will be different… we will be taking White Glint with us with Naomi and Raven too. –

Delphinium: - What? Why? –

Arthur: - Remember that the NEXT and their LYNXs are still under SMC jurisdiction and only us can repair it and protocol states that the pilots must be in the same location in which their unit is parked while deployed. Also, we have more experience treating pilots with Kojima overdoses. –

Whatever protest the Parasites wanted to say, was interrupted as an alert appeared on their screens…

Admiral Dassia: /Heads up Arthur! Another Reaper is headed your way! Energy signatures are similar to the previous one!/

Arthur: "This world is really cruel…" – You heard her Atlas squad! Prepare to receive! Delphinium! Take White Glint towards the Cerasus and stay there alongside your squad until it is clear! Don't intervene this time! –

Not in the mood to repeat what happened earlier, everyone agreed…

Delphinium: - Yes sensei! Squad 13, on me! Stre! Help me carry your brother! –

The red Franxx soon did so and once squad 13 was on the way back, everyone soon heard the next transmission: /The signals… they're coming from above! They are… they are splitting apart?!/

That was when the sound of thrusters was heard followed by an impact right in front of Squad 13 that forced them to stop. Once the smoke cleared, they saw that there were two new guests in there, both colored in klaxosaur livery. One of them was a giant AC-like unit surrounded by a ring around its main frame and LOTS of DEADLY equipment on the back… ('Balteus' from Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon)

However, it was the other unit that really set everyone on guard… this one had a female frame that looked similar to that of the Shepherdess but taller and looking more martial…

?: - As expected of the disciple of the 'Last Raven'. Taking head on the burden of his comrades without considering the consequences upon himself and his partner… -

She walked towards the APE squad while her companion flew between it and Atlas squad, blocking the latter's way.

Delphinium: - Who are you? Wait… let me guess… are you friends with that brute called… what was his name? –

?: - Jormungandr? Please, that brute already has grudges with me being his working companion. He and I simply work for the same boss… name is Devi by the way. -

Delphinium: "So that means that she is here for us too… not good…" – And why are you here? What have we done to your boss that they consider us a threat? Is it because of the war against your kin? Is it because your companion got his ass kicked? Or is it because of what just recently happened? –

Devi: - You're observant, I'll give you that. As for the reason… it is him. –

She was pointing towards White Glint, which made the group tense up and Strelizia growl…

Delphinium: - Why? Is it because of the Reaper he took down? He did that only to save us! –

Devi: - It isn't because of that… I'm here because he committed the crime of using one of the forbidden weapons of our enemies… -

Squad 13: "The Giga-cannon! Apart from the obvious, what does she mean with that?"

Argentea: - How can it be forbidden? I mean, I now know why, but it doesn't make sense that the SMC would create and develop something like this just to not use it! –

Chlorophytum: - Didn't sensei said that this weapon was locked up before alongside others? –

Mitsuru: - That basically means that they found these weapons and took their time to research them. They never mentioned who made them though… -

Devi: "Interesting… they are more aware of the situation than I believed…" – Tell me… how much do you know about our conflict between my kin and your false masters? –

Delphinium: "Again with that way of referring to Papa…" – Not much… we now know that some of your kin aren't as aggressive and feral as we believed. And that it is even possible to coexist with them… -

Devi: - You have been taught well… but that is just covering the part of the iceberg that is above the water. You are aware that the klaxosaurs where asleep underground until humans started digging up Magma energy? *The squad nods* There is a big reason for that… they sensed a little late that you were killing the planet, their home before it was yours… –

Delphinium: - That's something we already know… -

Devi: - But have you ever wondered why APE is continuing to do so while the SMC is actually doing efforts to reforest the planet? Why aren't they following their methods instead on continuing with this nonsense? Since you have learned that not all klaxosaurs are hostile, then why are they dead set on eliminating them all? –

The squad tried to answer the question only for everyone's mind to stay blank. Even those that were already suspicious about it didn't knew entirely the reason why…

Ichigo: "Just as I suspected long ago… why are we still fighting them for more than 100 years if the RF and SMC were able to do more than APE could in only 20 years?"

Ikuno: "She has a good point… why are hostilities still high with them if 100 years went by and from what our sensei and Raven taught us, many of them are just being territorial about their homes?"

Titus: "Is she implying that this conflict has deeper roots than just protecting what is left of humanity? If that is the case… no, that would be crazy… but could it be?"

The rest were having similar thoughts and it was Argentea who voiced them: - What are you saying? –

Devi: - Your so called "Master of humanity" Papa is just using humanity as a medium to achieve a bigger goal that he won't share with anyone until it is too late… he could easily stop this war alongside the Seven Sages if they just followed the example of the RF. But they aren't and won't be in the future for they already sacrificed lots of resources for their cause… more than you will ever understand… -

Argentea: - What you're saying doesn't make sense at all! You're lying! –

Devi: - I am not… after all haven't you even wondered why the… girl you call "Zero Two" ever existed different to you in the first place? –

Delphinium: - We don't care what her origins are! She has proven to be a great friend after the initial hardships and has a kind heart just like us! So be careful what you call her!

She bared her weapons in a threatening matter followed by the rest of the squad, it made Hiro and Zero Two's heart happy…

Strelizia: "Thank you… all of you… but her argument makes a lot of sense considering what they did to us… but still…" – But what does all of what you said have to do with my brother?! –

Devi: "So it is true… the bastard has really bonded herself to the 'Lost Raven' and his friends…" – Your so called 'brother' used a powerful weapon that was developed by our nemesis and SURVIVED. Do you even realize what it implicates? If your superiors get wind of this, they will no doubt use him just as they are using you all… but worse than what they did to you, 'red bastard'. –

Now it was Zero Two and Hiro's turn to be in shock as they knew what that meant: Naomi and Raven had literally just put big targets on their backs because of this… and after knowing all they're capable of doing…

Hiro: "The danger of them being kidnapped and being subjected to APE's treatment is real…"

Zero Two: "No, NO! I can't allow that to happen to them!"

Everyone noticed that Strelizia tensed up at that and Ichigo, having a fair suspicion that it didn't mean anything good, soon answered: - I don't understand what you're implying but Naomi and Raven are under SMC jurisdiction: whatever APE tries to do with them will not be well received by our allies. I don't think that's something we can risk… -

Devi: - And since when do you think APE cares about formalities? The moment an opportunity appears, they will take it to tie up loose ends, just like they did before in the 'Alamo Incident'. –

Now everyone was confused, what exactly did she meant by that? Wasn't the whole incident an unfortunate event? Hiro and Zero Two however, knew what she meant and felt dread wash over them…

Hiro: "If they are even mentioned the true events of the 'Alamo Incident', they will be in great danger!"

Alstroemeria: - What do you mean? The event happened because the APE convoy got intercepted by klaxosaurs and those continued their rampage against the SMC convoy. –

Zero Two: "No, DON'T!"

Devi: - That's what you believe… but on that day, APE… -

Bang!

Everyone was shocked seeing White Glint reactivate briefly just to shut up the newcomer by firing one of his handguns! The shot was well aimed but it did little damage, and it was more of a nuisance rather than a danger (the HG-003 Coquillet pistol) for the klaxo-warrior.

White Glint: - Don't… tell… them… they run… a great danger… once they… discover… the… truth… -

The machine then deactivated as everyone heard Raven coughing pretty bad that even some blood came out… it put the squad in a panic, and decided to investigate the issue later…

Delphinium: - Listen, we don't understand all of what you talked about but right now we need to take our friends urgently for medical assistance! –

Devi: "Even after being left in this state, you're still fighting on to protect your comrades… you would have put a lot of Ravens to shame young one…" – Well, you're in for a rude awakening… -

Everyone then saw her pull out a spear from her frame and, to their amazement, also pull out 4 extra arms! The main arms carried a klaxosaur variant of a kali each, while the middle arms pulled out hand cannons and both bottom arms split the spear and transform them into laser lances! Then she pointed towards Atlas squad and said: - Balteus, keep them busy… I got to teach these brats a lesson about loyalty… -

The machine then hovered towards Atlas squad and unleashed HELL upon them in the form of a rain of missiles!

Arthur: - Magma warheads! Evade! –

They managed to dodge most of them but that was enough for the machine to generate a force field that imprisoned both the squad and itself…

Firefox: - Dammit! They have us trapped! –

Caramel and Hotsteel tried forcing their way out only to be for naught…

Caramel: - It resists my shells! –

Hotsteel: - And my punches too! –

Andromeda: - Move! –

Both just managed to evade the giant mech rushing at them before regrouping with the squad and realizing something…

Chuck: - The machine is holding the force field active… we have to destroy it to get out! –

Atlas: "Dammit, not this again!" – For f***'s sake… kids, JUST SURVIVE! ON ME! –

The squad charged against Balteus while their graduates prepared themselves against Devi…

Delphinium: - Everyone! Me and Strelizia will stay with White Glint… keep her away! –

Squad 13: - Roger! –

(Play 'A stranger I remain' – extended version)

Devi: - Let's see how much you last before I take your friend away… -

Her visor then came down, she aimed with her cannons towards the group and fired. Strelizia made the correct decision of tanking the explosive shots, the smoke created by the explosions giving the perfect coverage for the rest of the squad to charge at the warrior. Argentea went first as she zig-zagged around Devi and tried ambushing her from behind, only for the warrior to use her lances to stop her attempt…

Devi: - You know how to do your stuff but that won't be enough… -

Argentea: - I know! Why do you think I went first? –

That was when Genista and Chlorophytum coordinated their shots at her. She soon dodged with Argentea chasing her closely trying to use the opening…

Argentea: - Take this! –

She lunged at her only for Devi to dodge last second and revealing Alstroemeria in front of her!

Argentea: "Ugh! Not this again!"

Alstroemeria: - Look out! –

She braced herself for the impact but was surprised as Argentea used Zandatsu to dig one of her claws into the ground and turn herself around using the momentum.

Argentea: - We learnt a few tricks! Focus on the fight! –

The group of 4 regrouped and went back to fighting, Genista and Chlorophytum trying their best to shoot at Devi only for their shots to miss while Argentea and Alstroemeria tried their best to catch her in a pincer maneuver…

Devi: - You're good, but not good enough… -

She aimed at the purple and green franxx and shot again, both mechs just barely dodging the shots. The recoil of such forced her to stop which gave both melee franxx's a chance…

Argentea: - Now Alstro! –

Alstro: - On it! –

Both put their boosters to the maximum and soon rushed towards Devi from her flanks thinking they had her as they swinged… only to be surprised as she caught their attacks flawlessly!

Devi: - You will need more than that… -

She then expertly deflected their strikes before making hers with her lances, forcing her attackers away!

Argentea/Alstroemeria: - AGGGH!-

Genista: - Are you two alright?! –

Argentea: - NO! *Sees Devi rush towards White Glint…* Watch out captain! –

Delphinium saw her rushing towards her group and prepared herself to intercept when they were all surprised to see her vanish…

Delphinium: "Huh? Where did she…?"

She was startled when she suddenly appeared RIGHT IN FRONT OF HER and aiming her cannons at her point blank!

Delphinium: "WHAT?!"

It was too late to do anything as she took the full force of the shot and sent her flying into Strelizia, who managed to just barely catch her with all the momentum she had. She then realized that the shot had been powerful enough to break her AP…

Strelizia: - Captain! –

She hurriedly touched her with her shield, transferring just enough energy to restore the PA as she helped her up…

Strelizia: - Are you alright?! –

Delphinium: - Thank you but stay close to White Glint! –

She nodded just before she saw Devi rushing at them and vanishing again… this time however, Strelizia had a good idea of what to expect… she boosted towards White Glint and just managed to catch Devi off-guard, both in a blade lock…

Devi: - As expected of you, red bastard. You managed to sense me before the blow… -

Strelizia: - It isn't that hard after being witness to it a lot of times… -

Argentea: - How the hell is she that fast?! –

Delphinium: - Because she is using Zandatsu like us! –

Squad 13: - What?! –

Chlorophytum: - This is bad… half of us don't even have that feature unlocked yet! –

Delphinium didn't hesitate, she activated hers and aimed swiftly for the kill… but as expected, Devi easily parried her attack…

Devi: - I was trained to win in fights where the odds are against me long before your group even existed human… -

She easily used her kalis to hold Delphinium's blades before she twisted her body in such a way that disarmed her and then kicked her away effortlessly. To everyone around them, it all happened in a blur, but Strelizia's pilots knew better than to let their guard down as they still remember some useful tips from their mentors…

Orion: - Using Zandatsu against other Zandatsu opponents is tricky but it can be done. One of the key factors to win is to aim and disable the opponent's module, but that is easier said than done. You will have to first find a way to force them to exhaust their ZKE first so that you can use yours and then use the little window of time to identify the module and then come up with the best way to disable it. Word of advice though? Sometimes, their greatest strength is their main weakness… -

Soon enough, Strelizia used Delphinium's distraction to thrust her lance into Devi just as she pulled out of her Zandatsu mode. The strike almost took out one of her arms if it wasn't for her fast reflexes, but it gave Strelizia the confirmation she needed when she saw her flinch: her main weakness was her arms.

Before she could report it to her teammates though, Devi came at her as she slashed all of her blades upon her such a swift rhythm that forced Strelizia into the defensive as she tried blocking everything with her shield.

Strelizia: - A little help here! –

Everybody else did not hesitate and soon used the opportunity to gang up on Devi. Argentea went first as she slashed at Devi, forcing her to let go of her assault and dodge. Alstroemeria followed soon after using her Thorn Stingers to propel herself towards her swiftly, and attempted to kick her, only for Devi to dodge using Zandatsu. Before she could counter her, Delphinium used hers and slashed at her open leg, forcing Devi to dodge. Unfortunately for her, the action consumed her ZKE that it forced her out of the mode, leaving her wide open for Chlorophytum whom slashed at her with her right leg only to be blocked but then she surprised her as she unleashed a quick volley from her guns, effectively staggering her! This gave Genista the chance to aim and shoot at point blank against her, the shell scoring a direct hit!

Strelizia: - She's open! Let's finish this! –

Everyone then leaped towards her stunned mech as everyone went for the final blow… but then…

Devi: - Enough of this! –

To everyone's shock, her core started to shine brighter and brighter, unleashing electrical arcs alongside a blue colored aura! Delphinium soon realized what was about to happen!

Delphinium: - FALL BACK! –

But it was too late, as the core soon released all that energy in a shockwave similar to White Glint's and everyone was soon caught on it!

Squad 13: - ARRRRRRRGH! –

Pain went through everyone as the shockwave pierced through their PA and the protection of their cabins and electricity coursed through everyone! The shocks were enough to force everyone to disconnect from their rides as they all breathed heavily because of the damage received…

Devi: - You got the spirit and the will of warriors but unfortunately still lack the experience and power to overwhelm proper ones… -

Arthur: - Kids! Squad 13! Are you alright?! –

Ichigo: - A… alive… please… rescue… White Glint…. –

Firefox: - We can't, Balteus is giving us a hard time! –

Zero Two: "Dammit… DAMMIT! NO!"

She tried to do something, but even her hybrid features weren't enough to help as she watched Devi walk towards White Glint…

Devi: - You don't seem to be aware of many things young Raven… but after all of what I witnessed, your mentor made the mistake of never telling you his origins denying you of the duty you must uphold… that's something that will change once I take you and your partner away with the queen… -

White Glint: - What… do you… even mean…? –

Squad 13 was wondering the same…

Devi: - Your mentor belonged to an ancient line of special warriors that played a huge role in the times before the klaxosaurs were what they are today. But such powerful line is almost extinct, almost wiped out by our enemies and millennia of hiding in the shadows… and you are the last one with the potential to resume it before it is sniffed out completely. –

Raven didn't understand but he felt Naomi grip his hand as she then said between heavy breaths: - Raven… the dream… that tree… and the last leaf… -

Raven had the feeling that somehow, his and Naomi's visions were all connected to the klaxosaurs but he didn't expect it to be that deep of a connection. What did Devi meant with his mentor being the descendant of a line of warriors that existed BEFORE the klaxosaurs? Did that meant that there was an ancient civilization before humanity appeared? And from what Naomi explained from her dreams… did that meant that the klaxosaurs were the remnants of such civilization?

Even so, he set aside all those questions as he soon answered: - Where… does it… say that… I have to… do it? Who… decided that? –

Something coursed through his veins as he gathered whatever strength he had left to activate White Glint in solo mode… and to the surprise of everyone… it was working!

Raven: - Who are… you to decide… which path I… follow?! It is… one of the main reasons… for which… I continue fighting…! To preserve our right… to choose our own path… without interference! Without fear! WITHOUT OPPRESION! FREEDOM FOR ME AND MY FRIENDS! –

Naomi saw in horror as some of Raven's veins started to literally light up in a black color and his face looked feral as the screens in the cabin started to flash red errors all around them as the connection was being forced!

A.I: - Critical error! Critical error! Paracapacity male pulse surpassing safe levels! Overflow detected! Immediate disconnection recommended! –

Naomi had learned enough that at excessive levels, LYNX's could suffer permanent damage and even death when an overflow happened! And to make it worse, she saw the systems go haywire as some sparks went around him! Everyone outside could feel the danger too as they saw White Glint glitch and twitch erratically!

Devi: "What in the name of Ibis?! A Coral surge!? But he is a human! HOW!?"

Zero Two: - BROTHER! STOP, PLEASE! I DON'T WANT YOU TO DIE! –

Hiro: - RAVEN! SNAP OUT OF IT! –

Ichigo: - RAVEN! STOP! NAOMI, DO SOMETHING! –

The shouts from her friends gave her enough adrenaline to gather the remaining strength she had and lunged towards him! The sparks expanded towards her, and she felt pain course through her veins as hers shined white but even then, she screamed with all her voice: - RAVEN! STOP! PLEASE… STOP… MY… LOVE! –

The final word seemed to have the effect as he looked at her, his feral look toning down as she held on to him as she implored him with her eyes to stop this madness… memories of promises made, moments happily lived and a sea of emotions soon calmed him down, the sparks fading away but the pain staying there alongside the shining veins… and as he did, his strength faded and soon collapsed on her embrace…

Raven: - I'm… sorry… I… I… just… want… freedom… for… all of… us… -

Naomi: - I'll always… forgive you… always…

As Raven fainted on her, Naomi felt her own strength disappear and soon said: - Guys… do us a favor… please win… believe in yourselves… just… like… we do… -

It was her last message as darkness soon overcame her…

On the outside, White Glint's shaking ended and the NEXT collapsed into the sand, its systems and link with his friends going dark, meaning that now there was no way of knowing if Raven and Naomi were alright…

Strelizia: - No… no… please no… -

Devi: "I'm losing time here… I have to bring them to the queen ASAP! She needs to know this..."

She tried then to pick the white NEXT up but was caught off guard when Alstroemeria's Thorn Stingers wrapped around her and forced her away!

Devi: - Grrah! –

Alstroemeria: - You're not taking him anywhere! We already lost him once, BUT WE WON'T ALLOW IT TO HAPPEN TWICE! –

Devi grumbled and set herself free soon after but was forced to back away as Chlorophytum pestered her with her shots…

Devi: - You are as stubborn as he is… fine, if eliminating you is the way, so be it! –

She armed herself again just as Genista aimed and fired at her, emptying her whole magazine even though none of the shots hit. It did leave her open and Devi used it to enter Zandatsu…

Devi: "Say goodnight for the last…"

But just as she swung at her with her lance, she was surprised as Genista turned to her and managed to block it with her cannon bayonet!

Devi: "WHAT?!"

The surprise didn't end there as she then deflected the attack and slammed the cannon butt HARD on her chest…

Devi: - oOOOMF! –

She slides back a few meters and saw that Chlorophytum and Alstroemeria rendezvous with Genista which confused her as she saw the rest of their squad still down…

Devi: - How are you 3 still operational? -

Chlorophytum: - That's for us to know and not you! –

Titus: "Is a good thing that the doctor allowed me to install the prototype SAFE modules as a preventive measure for those who would go through the shuffle. They absorbed most of the raw shock of that attack… *checks status of the unit* and unfortunately won't be able to do so again so we have only one shot to save our friends…"

Devi: - Even so, it doesn't change the fact you're in disadvantage. You barely had a chance against me with 6 of you. With half those numbers it will be simply suicide… -

Alstroemeria: - We went through worse odds… so nice try scaring us… -

Devi: - You REALLY believe you can win? –

Genista: - No we don't… but Raven and Naomi do. They believed in us ever since the moment they returned! Even with all our flaws and mistakes that we made, they believed that we could reach more! Unleash our TRUE POTENTIAL! BOTH JUST DID IT TODAY TO SAVE US ALL AND WE WILL RETURN THE FAVOR! –

Devi swore she saw the eyes on the mech shine for a moment and also felt a familiar surge on their pilots: "That is… another surge?! It is small and tiny compared to that of the 'Lost Raven… but it is there! HOW?!"

Even though Strelizia, Delphinium and Argentea were out of the fight, they were still connected to the comms…

Ichigo: - Don't fail us now guys! –

Zorome: - Good luck! You will need it! –

Zero Two: - Listen! Her weakness are her arms! Cut them off one by one and you will be able to overwhelm her! –

She sent the data and soon added: - Just please… win! We have to rescue Raven and Naomi! –

Chlorophytum, Alstroemeria, and Genista: - We WILL! –

Devi smirked and said: - Then give it your best… Parasites. –

I've finally found what I was looking for

The three franxx then charged at her, Alstroemeria going for the front while the other two flanked Devi's sides. Alstroemeria used her Thorn Stingers to close the gap between her and the klaxosaur warrior who simply shrugged and activated her Zandatsu…

A place where I can be without remorse

But she was caught off-guard when Alstroemeria didn't stop!

Devi: - What?! –

Alstroemeria: - You're smart enough to know why! –

The klaxosaur warrior just barely managed to block her spear but that left her open as Alstroemeria recalled her Thorn Stingers and used their momentum to throw them at her face!

Devi: - Auch! –

Because I am a stranger who has found

An even stranger war

The little moment of hesitation was enough for Alstroemeria to spin her spear and chop off her middle right hand!

Devi: - ARRRrgh! –

She was then kneed into her chest and forced out of Zandatsu while also going into a collision course against Chlorophytum who activated hers and slashed the other middle arm with her legs…

Devi: - GGGRRmph! –

This time, Devi reacted by counterattacking with her lances and forced Chlorophytum away…

I've finally found what I was looking for

Devi: - It seems I'm going serious now… congrats to you three, very few manage to do so… -

She seemed to activate something that made her mech glow with energy and the three Franxx soon got ready.

Here I come

Devi banished from their sights and in an instant, all three huddled together with their backs on each other…

Chlorophytum: - You know what to do here, right? –

Genista and Alstroemeria: - Yep. –

All: "Thanks sensei for the lesson…"

Orion: - There will be times where you will have to face an enemy more agile than you all combined, and when that happens remember to put your advantages at full capacity. For example, during your battle against Jormungandr, he made the wise choice of immobilizing everyone in one swoop because he knew that facin would bring him in disadvantage. As such, I will now teach you techniques that can minimize the risk of being isolated while also bringing your numbers to bear… -

The "ring" and "circle" formation was what they learnt that day and today they were putting that knowledge to the test…

La chaleur me dérange

Mais c'est le grincement du bateau qui m'a réveillé

Soon enough, Devi started to blitz around them and striked when they least expected. But the three franxx held their ground and everytime she tried to force one out, the other two would cover the target properly when counterattacking and then rush at her forcing Devi to withdraw. This little dance between the 4 went on for quite a while which was taxing both sides but also making Devi worried of something…

Devi: "If I don't finish them off soon, Balteus will be overrun by their mentors and those guys are the real deal. All or nothing then…"

I sharpen the knife

And look down upon the bay

She rushed at them again but this time, she aimed at the center of their formation and activated her core attack…

Devi: - You won't be able to resist a second one! –

Her plan was simple: force them all apart from each other as they would dodge her attack and once that happened, she would use Zandatsu to finish them off one by one…

For all of my life

Soon enough, it went as expected as her enemies gave her a wide gap to avoid her attack… and once it activated, she went into Zandatsu mode and went for Genista…

Devi: - Better get the weak link first… -

A stranger I remain

Genista: - GOTCHA! –

To her surprise however, Genista suddenly had a sudden surge of power as her helmet and coat dislodged from her and she turned to face her faster than she expected! She then threw both the coat and the helmet at her!

Devi: "WHAT?!"

Blam!

A stranger I remain

Genista: - NOW! –

The coat and the helmet distracted her long enough to become victim of a triple gank. Genista went first by slashing at her legs, forcing Devi to kneel. Then Chlorophytum shot her at the back of her head and then chopped off her two bottom arms before Alstroemeria went next and sliced off the remaining two then wrapped her Thorn Stingers around her and forced her into the ground!

A stranger I remain

As the dust created by the shockwave cleared, it was clear that this time, Squad 13 was the winner again! Unfortunately, it was also clear it was a pyrrhic victory…

Devi: - You… you… bested… me… -

Alstroemeria: - Yes we did! –

In their minds though…

Genista/Alstroemeria/Chlorophytum: "HOLY CRAP, IT ACTUALLY WORKED! WE GOT LUCKY!"

Yeah, turns out they had to improvise… and Devi knew it…

Devi: "Welp… now I know how Jormungandr felt…"

That was when the rest of the squad managed to restart their units and soon reunited with their friends…

Argentea: - You did it guys! –

Delphinium: - Great job everyone… we all live one more day… -

Alstroemeria: - What should we do with her? –

Just when Delphinium was about to answer, they heard their mentor in the radio shout: /Balteus is disengaging and coming towards you! Beware!/

They managed to barely move out of the way as the giant klaxosaur NEXT forced its way in. It went straight for Devi and picked her up before firing up its boosters and flying away from the battle…

Arthur: - Radar indicates that the enemy has fled from the zone. They won't be bothering us for now… -

He thought that the kids would cheer, but they stayed all silent and he knew why. As soon as the coast was clear he soon ordered: - Let's get White Glint and our friends into the bay. Kids. RTB to the Cerasus. We're done here… -

Hotsteel went for the fallen NEXT and soon enough, Atlas squad returned to the 'Oletros' while Squad 13, heavy with worry, returned to their plantation.

Later, at night, on Plantation 13…

Ichigo was talking through her communicator using Haro as a relay to communicate with the 'Oletros' and for a good reason…

Ichigo: - Alright… alright… sure… thanks for everything you done… -

She then hung up and soon turned to talk with everyone in the lobby…

Ichigo: - Okey guys, I got good news and bad news. I will start with what we have been worried about: Naomi and Raven are in the clear now. –

Everyone sighed in relief but soon braced themselves for the hard part…

Ichigo: - And now… the bad news… both him and Naomi are going to be weak for a while because of the radiation and require intensive treatment, meaning that this will probably be the last time we see them before they return to the SMC… -

Now that did leave a salty wound on everyone… Raven's last action for them was saving them all from the wyrm… and now he and Naomi were paying the cost, as they would never be able to say goodbye to them. This was hard on everyone, specially on Zero Two and Hiro and it soon reflected…

Zero Two: - Well… I guess… I'll be at my room… -

She left fast enough before anyone could answer, and they didn't blame her for it. She was very close to Raven and after all he had done to help her… it felt ugly to know she wouldn't have a chance to thank him now…

Everybody else followed her example and left to do their own things… some of them deciding to tie up some loose ends…

Ikuno: - Come on Pari, me and Titus need your help for this… -

Pari: - I'm going, I'm going! But why haven't you told me about what is it first yet? –

Ikuno: - I already told you I will tell you once Titus arrives. So come on! –

Both soon went towards the kitchen where they waited and soon enough heard Titus voice…

Titus: - Come on! This way! –

Ikuno went towards the door and soon gestured Titus to go inside… but to Pari's surprise he arrived alongside Futoshi who was also surprised to see her there…

Pari: - Oh! Uh… -

Futoshi: - Pari! Um… um… -

Slam! *Click*

That was when both suddenly realized that they had fallen for a ruse: Titus and Ikuno had basically trapped them both in the kitchen and it didn't take a genius to know the reason…

Titus: - You can welcome us later! Now talk! –

Ikuno: - This is for your own good, alright? Raven almost sacrificed himself for this to happen so please make it count! We will return in 30 minutes! –

Both soon walked away, leaving Alstroemeria's pilots alone and in an awkward silence…

Futoshi: - … -

Pari: - … -

Futoshi: - Oh… what the hell… today a lot has happened, I can take one more… -

Pari: - Huh? –

Futoshi: - Pari… why do you care a lot for me? After everything that happened? –

Pari: -What do you mean? –

Futoshi: - I… I read your recipe on that day… when you broke down in the kitchen… and I learnt a lot of things that I had been blind to… -

Pari shocked expression said everything: "He… he read that?! Crap! Crapcrapcrapcrap!"

She blushed and seemed to be ready to panic when he then continued: - And I still don't know why you still love me?! After ignoring your signs of affection for so long and seeing me drool like a fool for Kokoro… why?! Why aren't you mad at me at least?! –

Pari's panic faded away and felt something opening on her… just like the day when she met him for the first time…

Pari: - Futoshi… I would never be mad at you after all of what happened. Yes, I'm a little bothered that you took a LONG time to realize it… -

Futoshi: - Then I don't deserve you! I simply don't… -

Pari went towards him and shut him up as she put her hand on his mouth…

Pari: - Futoshi… I LOVE you… I LOVE you! I don't care if you feel undeserving of my love or if you want to be happy with someone else… I love you and I want you to be happy no matter what… because you made me happy on my darkest days and without expecting something in return from me… and since that day… I wanted to do the same for you… so please Futoshi… never say you're undeserving of my love… for you saved my life thanks to that and I will never stop loving you for that… -

Tears of release came out from her eyes as she finally unleashed what she had bottled up for more than 10 years… and it had the desired effect as Futoshi was speechless but also tearing up as he then smiled and went to hug her…

Futoshi: - Then in that case… Pari, will you allow me to redeem myself, so I become worthy of your love? I will treat you with the same… no, with more care than I did to Kokoro for you're deserving of more after waiting this long… -

Pari smiled as she nodded, both crying tears of joy before both looked at each other and marked their new relationship with a kiss.

30 minutes later…

Titus: - The kitchen has been silent for a while… you think they finally talked it out? –

Ikuno: - We won't know until we check. Speaking of checking… have you checked on the modules that the doctor allowed you to install? –

Titus: - All 3 got fried, but I would still consider them a success. They did the job they were supposed to do for once! –

Ikuno: - So finally a win after many failed prototypes. Congratulations! –

Titus: - Yeah! Although, that attack Devi did… it's similar to White Glint's assault attack back in the Ark operation… but less powerful… hmmmm… -

Ikuno: "He looks so cute when he concentrates." – Turning the gears now for a new idea now, mister inventor? –

Titus: - Maybe… if what I think is correct… *thinks a little more* unfortunately it will have to wait, for now we have to check on those two… -

Ikuno: - *Chuckles* By the way, it was a great experience piloting with you Titus. For some time I believed I would have trouble being partners with everyone as I didn't believe someone would understand my… 'tastes'. But you proved me wrong… -

Titus: - Hey, us, the queer, have to stick together. But you're right, it was a blast riding with you. Let's hope that Pari and Futoshi will continue to do so from now on… -

As both reached the kitchen, they noticed that the lights were out and as they opened the door, it was eerily silent…

Titus: - Hello? Futoshi? Pari? Where are you guys!? –

And then, as both entered the room, the lights suddenly turned on, blinding him and Ikuno before feeling something wet and creamy impacting against their heads.

Futoshi: - That's what you get…! –

Pari: - For locking the only cooks of the squad! –

Both heard them laugh as they calmed down and Titus soon said: - *Tastes* Hmm… lemon pie? You took your time apparently… -

Ikuno: - I think I will need new glasses after this… it's going to be hard to clean… -

As Pari passed them some towels to clean up, Titus soon asked: - So… did you finally talked it out? –

Pari simply smiled as she hugged Futoshi which he reciprocated and soon said: - We did… and then we talked about paying you back the favor… -

Titus: - Would you have at least made it of chocolate? It is everyone's favorite here! –

Pari simply stuck out her tongue before Futoshi said: - The point was to make it sour for you… the cherry on the top for the payback! –

In the end, they all chuckled before Titus said: - You know… there's got to be a way to communicate this to Raven and Naomi… they really wanted to see this happen. –

Everyone present got a little sour mentioning their injured friends but that soon gave them determination…

Ikuno: - Maybe we can ask sensei to pass the news to them when they get better… -

Pari: - I know! We could use Haro for this! –

Titus: - Yeeeeeeah… a problem with that… I don't know where he is… -

Futoshi: - Wait, I remember Raven gave me something for this sort of events. I think he called it a 'camera'. –

Titus: - A camera? Wait! I remember now! He recovered that device back on the abandoned village! He managed to restore it!? We gotta see! –

Futoshi: - Follow me then! –

As the 4 of them went to find and use on of the most iconic devices ever designed by men, another group was going upstairs to face one more mystery…

At the attic…

Zero Two was depressed… it was a feeling she was familiar with for years but that didn't mean she missed it. And the reason was clear: her brother in anything but blood was injured alongside his girlfriend and she couldn't do anything for both… just like she couldn't do anything back then except obey those despicable Sages all while using her, and that is a whole can of worms she wanted to put behind… but it seemed that she was cursed to always suffer those hardships again and again.

Zero Two: "Kind of fitting… for a monster like me…"

Before she could sink into it deeper, she heard a knock on her door…

Hiro: - Zero Two? It is me… I know you are not at your best mood right now… but we still have the talk with Mitsuru about what happened. And I can't do it without you, can I come in? –

Zero Two wanted to turn him away… but part of her felt that by doing so, she would betray everything Raven had fought for… so she soon went towards the door and unlocked it before she answered…

Zero Two: - Go ahead… -

She was surprised when she saw it wasn't only Hiro who entered but also Mitsuru, Kokoro, Ichigo, Goro, and Haro. Goro was the last one and he soon locked the door…

Zero Two: - Darling… I thought it was only you… -

Hiro: - Sorry Zero Two, but I was afraid you wouldn't open if I didn't lie… -

Zero Two: - Darling… -

Ichigo: - Look Zero Two… if you want someone to be mad at that would be me, I suggested the idea because knowing you, you would have refused our help… -

Zero Two: - We have been piloting together for almost a year and you still doubt me? –

Ichigo: - At least when you're emotionally in a turmoil… *sighs* Zero Two, we're doing this for your own good. We know that when you're happy and calm you are someone we would trust to the death… but recently you have been showing signs of erratic behavior and considering what happened today… -

Goro: - We fear you may become a ticking bomb of emotions and to be sincere, we know barely anything about this side you're showing… afraid and anxious. –

Mitsuru: - And trust me when I say that it will drag you down the longer you try to hide it. Zero Two, don't make the same mistake I did. You just saw today that it almost made us lose and I put Kokoro in unnecessary danger because of it. "Ironic to think I would end up giving her advice for something I expected her to commit…" –

Hiro: - Zero Two… we care for you… we're doing this to help you, just like Raven helped us. –

He caressed her cheek, and she reacted by leaning on his hand as she sighed and soon said: - Fine… but before anything else, all of you must understand something very important: what me and my darling are about to tell you MUST. NOT. LEAVE. THIS. ROOM. Got it?! –

This got the interest of everyone present…

Kokoro: - Why, is it something important? –

Hiro: - It explains EVERYTHING… and I mean EVERYTHING! From how I forgot my promise to Mitsuru to all the troubles that plagued ever since the "bad week". –

Now THIS meant that it was VERY important. Hiro never talked about such week before and never understood what it meant. Hearing him suddenly acknowledging it with such level of familiarity meant that it was indeed something serious…

Zero Two: - And please don't tell any adult about it… I mean it. It will land you in very DEEP trouble if you even mention it outside of this room or the library so, please… keep your lips sealed about this…

Ichigo: "I freaking knew it!" – What exactly happened there that made you go through such a bad week and could be so bad that it would land us in trouble? –

(Play "Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon OST - Garage Theme "Hearing Things")

And so, both finally told them everything… EVERYTHING, from Hiro's discovery, rescuing Zero Two, and their adventure outside in the Garden before being captured and wiped and all the hell that followed after that…

Needless to say, everyone needed a seat during the tale and once both victims finished, the ambient had become somber. Kokoro and Ichigo were horrified about what happened and hugged Zero Two for support, both for them and for her while Mitsuru and Goro where both looking at the floor, also horrified…

Mitsuru: "All this time I had been holding a grudge for something Hiro couldn't control… I WAS A FOOL!"

He let it be known by smashing his fist on the dinner table nearby, surprising everyone as he stood up and went to lean on the wall while covering his forehead with his right hand…

Goro: - So all of that happened… how could they let something like this happen?! –

Mitsuru: - Because they didn't want it to be revealed… they were willing to silence even their best candidates just to keep her a secret… but for what? –

Zero Two: - I never understood why they would create me… and at this point I don't care… -

Kokoro: - *Sniffing* Zero Two… I… I'm sorry you had to go through all of that… alone… -

Ichigo: - That explains… why you were so cold with us at the beginning… you didn't want to get hurt again… -

Zero Two: - I'll admit that I thought coming here would be a waste of time, like always… but I had no choice, and I still held on into the hope that my darling would be here… and unlike the previous times, I was rewarded this time. *Remembers her first day on the Plantation and everything the happened…* When White Glint appeared for the first time, I was curious and thought about staying around just to get some variety before going back to my usual routine of bouncing between Plantations… instead… *her memoirs take him to meeting Raven and Naomi, her mentors, the adventures she under their tutelage, the Ark, the Viking funeral, meeting Haro, their fights together against impossible odds…* I found life… again… thanks to Raven… I… I risked myself to open my emotions once more… because in some way I felt he would help me… and he did… he made me connect with everyone here… he always had our back on the most dangerous situations… he made possible for us to achieve our dreams… *tears start to slip out* he renewed my will to live again… after so many years in isolation… and most importantly… he helped me reunite… with my darling… all… while… all… *sniff* while… *starts to sob* … all while… he… never… asked… anything… in return… -

She broke down after saying those words and the two girls alongside her were also tearing up as well… because after all, everything Zero Two had said was true… ever since the day Raven had returned… Squad 13's luck had turned around, all thanks to his help and that of the people he knew… and he did it all without hesitation, all for the sake of his friends and Naomi. Those two were considered by their friends as the soul of their squad… no matter how tough or impossible the challenge ahead of them was, as long as he and Naomi continued fighting, everyone believed they would live another day… but today the harsh reality of the world came back upon them and showed them that even the best could fall if pushed to their limits.

Ichigo: - Zero Two… once Raven helped you recover your memories and Hiro's… did he ever told you about telling your story to the rest? –

Zero Two: - He didn't… *sniffs* and to be sincere, I didn't want to… because now I really appreciate all of you as my friends… and I didn't want to endanger you with our tale… -

Both Ichigo and Kokoro smiled at her noble intent but soon Kokoro said: - Well, you can now stop thinking like that… as you said, we're your friends and you can count on us with those sort of secrets… -

Zero Two: - But… but what if…? –

Kokoro: - No, Zero Two… it is time that we all share our burdens… together… you're now part of us just like we are part of you… remember? –

"Until you clear and face your burdens, your two friends will have to carry theirs alone…"

Those words resonated through everyone's mind and that's when they realized that the time to face this world alone had passed… it was time they all faced it together to help the ones that started it all…

Zero Two smiled at Kokoro's insistence and hugged her. It was there when Mitsuru asked the big one: - So, what can we do now? Raven and Naomi are safe on the 'Oletros' but it is clear that our group isn't… -

Goro: - Aren't you rushing a little with that conclusion? –

Mitsuru: - Goro… if they did all those horrible things to Zero Two and didn't hesitate to wipe out Hiro's memory just because he MET her… what makes you think they won't do the same for us? –

His reasoning was valid and it worried Ichigo a LOT: "No wonder Raven, Naomi and our sensei were discreet about various topics… they were doing their best to protect us…"

Hiro: - Mitsuru is right on that… as long as we remain with APE we won't be safe… not even with the 'Oletros' nearby… -

Goro: - Why do you say that? They wouldn't risk… wait…please tell me that I'm wrong on what you're about to tell… -

Hiro sighed as he said: - Remember when Raven told us about the 'Alamo Incident'? He had twisted the tale a little for the sake of protecting us… -

He then proceeded to tell how APE, the supposed protectors of humanity, had planned from the beginning to DESTROY the RF since the moment they did first contact… if there was any remaining shards of loyalty to APE from those present, they were all instantly shattered once they realized the hypocrisy behind the truth…

Ichigo: - So that explains why the SMC hasn't tried to contact us… and I don't blame them… how could they?! –

She angrily grabbed one of the pillows and threw it hard against the wall…

Ichigo: - This whole time… we have been fighting for lies?! For the wrong reasons?! For what do we fight then?! Does this mean I'm risking my friends lives for nothing?! –

She was silenced as Hiro threw the pillow back at her face…

Hiro: - Ichigo! I know you're mad but don't risk speaking like that here! Same goes for everyone! *Sighs* Listen, right now, we cannot do anything to avoid this… we're simply Parasites under Papa and any action we do to rebel will be swiftly terminated… as much as it hurts me to say this… we have play along for a long time… at least until we reach the Garden. –

Goro: - Why until then? –

Hiro: - Raven has told me lots of things that we wouldn't know otherwise. One of them is that we're returning to the Garden in preparation for a big operation, REALLY big like in the same level as that of the Ark. –

Ichigo: "As big as the Ark operation? Hmmmm…" – Then that means that APE is preparing for an assault… but where? –

Hiro: - I don't know… but if there's something I learned after many sorties, is that in big operations like these, it's common that a few units disappear… so let's make sure to NOT get lost on the fog of war… -

Everyone was smart enough to know what he really meant: "In this big operation, I'll see if I can come up with a plan so we can risk it…"

Ichigo: - Slow it down in there Hiro… as much as we would like to "transfer" to the other side… we have to this calmly. As you said, it is too risky, and I would rather do it with some of Raven's support. I hate to admit but, without his help this may not work. –

Thinking deeply into it, Hiro soon realized that she was right. It would increase a LOT if they had SMC support for such an escape but without Raven, their chances are reduced a lot and their sensei is as sticker to the rules…

Hiro: - You're right… we may need to bid some time… -

Mitsuru: - Oh, speaking of Raven… Haro, do you have what I asked you to bring? –

Haro: - Messenger service! Messenger service! –

The little drone opened a compartment and Mitsuru pulled out a wooden box alongside a sealed letter. He then went towards Zero Two and said: - Here… Raven asked me to pass it over to you. "His gift" he said… -

Flashback, a few minutes after returning to sortie…

Mitsuru and Kokoro had just disembarked from Genista when Haro came flying towards them…

Kokoro: - Haro? Do you need something? –

Haro: - Important message! Important message! –

His eyes shined as he started to play the recorded message coming from…

Mitsuru: - Raven? –

Hologram Raven: "Hey Mitsuru, if you're watching this it means that me and Naomi had stretched to far on this sortie… you can mock us later about it, but right now I need you, and only YOU to make me a personal favor. Haro has inside one of his containers a personal gift of mine for Zero Two, I spent a lot of time working on it and wanted to give it to her as a farewell gift when me and Naomi would return to the RF. But I got a feeling that I won't be able to give it to her personally after this… so I'm passing to you the torch. I know that you and she aren't in the best terms, but I don't care… this feud of yours is past due for solving and even if I'm 6 feet underground I will make sure you make peace for it once and for all! This is for your good and for the squad so you better man up, take whatever little pride you have and shove it into a klaxosaur's **** (Kokoro: Oh my…) *Sighs* I simply want to be assured that once Naomi and I leave, you will be able to face this world without us. It will be harder than before for you and for us… but once we overcome that bundle then we can take for granted that no matter how far away we are, we will be able to see each other again. *Turns around* White Glint is ready to roll. *Turns back to the camera* Pray for answer, Mitsuru… you will need it."

The message ended there and Kokoro saw Mitsuru, for the first time, shedding a tear…

Mitsuru: - Even before he went out, he still planned for this just in case… he really is something beyond what we believe, don't you think? –

Zero Two's eyes were threatening to water again as she took the wooden box and opened it…

(Play 'KISS OF DEATH/Mika Nakashima [Music Box] (Anime "DARLING in the FRANXX" OP)')

The moment she did, a weird contraption inside it started playing a melodious tone that made everyone silent as they listened. It was over soon after, but it was clear it was meant to be used multiple times. That's when Zero Two opened the letter and read it aloud:

"Dear Zero Two:

This box is known as a 'Music box' a musical contraption that required skill, patience and determination for even the most experienced artisans of the 'Old World'. It is an art that disgracefully is almost extinct, only few talented men and women in the Federation only being able to at least replicate it by restoring these old wooden pieces of art. Zorran had this one for a long time, always intended to restore it but never had the time or resources to do so because of me. He never blamed me for it though, as he believed that it would be better to leave it as it was before risking any damage to it on the restoration. It was Yukino's personal music box, given to him by her and now given to me by him when he passed away. At first, I thought of leaving it as it was, but then I met you and I knew that if anyone needed this, it would be you. The music will help you stay strong on the following days in which your traumas and hardships will burden you down as it will help you remember our times together, both the good and the bad. A remainder that, no matter how far apart we will be, you can always count on me being there to help you little sister.

Pray for answer.

Raven.

P.S: Also, be a little lenient on Hiro when it's his turn giving you gifts. I'm setting the bar too high. XD"

The last part earned everyone a good chuckle as she folded the letter and soon said: - Thank you Mitsuru… and I don't want to sound ungrateful, but can everyone please leave me and my darling alone for now? –

Ichigo: - Don't worry, we understand… and remember everyone, all of what we talked in here stays secret in here. For Raven and Naomi… pray for answer. –

Everyone: - Pray for answer… -

Everyone except Hiro soon left and soon he and Zero Two cuddled together as she continued playing with the music box…

Zero Two: - Darling… you think that one day, we will really be free? –

Hiro: - Raven and Naomi did it… and I'm very sure that we will too. All at the right time… -

Unknown to them, someone very unlikely was going to soon be onboard…

At the doctor's laboratory…

Dr. Franxx: "I should have known better than to believe that it was going to be easy…"

He had managed to do a copy of Orion's holowatch so that he could avoid hijack traces as he explored its juicy contents. But as expected, the device had more than just the initial lock screen to keep all of its content safe…

Dr. Franxx: "Almost 2 hours into this and no file has been decodified nor declassified… I hate to admit it but they are better than me in electronics…"

His thoughts were interrupted as the system soon notified him of an unclassified folder that he could read and the name of the folder wasn't just a trivial thing…

Dr. Franxx: " 'Diceon management'? What is that?"

He soon opened the folder and was surprised to see lots of files about the subject: "Clearly something important…"

As he read, his long time suppressed emotions seemed to revive as he soon realized something…

Dr. Franxx: "This… this… THIS! It has to be! It has to be!"

It was as if time itself had rewinded on his old body as he soon went through all of his terminals with a speed that would betray his real age, all the time muttering to himself as he remembered some of the key clues, he had been given… (In the previous episodes)

Dr. Franxx: "They come from our common enemy… they are the key to harness Kojima energy… this 'Diceon'… I'm very sure that my hunch is right this time!"

He soon went towards the main terminal and soon ran a simulator…

Dr. Franxx: "If I select these parameters, alongside this… and this…"

The simulator then started running and it showed a hologram of a Magma cube in the center, surrounded by a cloud of Kojima particles. As expected, the energy outputs were off the chart alongside the radiation outputs meaning that it was too dangerous of a composition to use…

Dr. Franxx: "And if this 'diceon' material is what I think it is…"

He ran the simulator again, but this time he added a new material that looked like a D20 dice and made out of a blue material similar to the klaxosaurs… and this time, the simulator showed that the energy outputs remained the same BUT the radiation levels were safe!

Dr. Franxx: - EUREKA! –

He had done it! He had found the mysterious source of energy of the Federation!

Dr. Franxx: "Mother nature again showing us her wisdom by providing us with the materials: klaxosaur EGGSHELLS! That's what they use for Diceon!"

He was a little giddy as he went to write on his journal the discovery so that he could later submit it to the next Council meeting when suddenly an audio started playing from the terminal…

?: - You better not do what I believe you will do, Frankie! –

Werner stopped in his tracks…

Dr. Franxx: "Frankie? Only two people knew about that dumb nickname… and how much I hate it."

?: - Yes, I'm using that nickname you hate to speak to you Frankie! –

He finally turned around and was shocked to see the hologram of someone he never thought he would see again…

Dr. Franxx: - C-Citrine? –


Aaaaaaaaaand that's a wrap for this chapter! Oh boi, did things went very different here! Raven and Naomi are out of commission, half of Squad 13 is now aware of the truth, and dr. Franxx has discovered the secret component that allows the Federation to succeed and met a familiar face! What will happen in the next chapter now because of all of this?!

Now, on to personal notes… ARMORED CORE 6 DROPPED BABYYYYYYY! Oh boi! As a matter of fact, by the time this chapter was finished I already 100% the game! It is EVERYTHING I hoped it would be! I can officially call myself a Raven! (lol) I'm thinking of picking up Baldur's Gate 3 now, RPG's have always been fascinating to me.

Anyways, thanks for reading and stay tuned for the next chapter!

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

... The trials had been answered...

a lost raven shares his burden…

and the dove shares her wings…

and both fall to protect the nest…