Muv-Luv Reversal (Neo New Sawatari Version)

by Zuoriel

A small ripple grows to a wave, washed ashore of Yokohama Base once more. Shirogane Takeru sets himself to endure another loop, to put an end to the causal mess. Yet soon he'll see things are not the same here, receiving no warm welcome from his comrades. Without knowing who, if any, is on his side, Takeru must navigate a chaotic tide against the odds. And himself.

14. Behind the Veil

Chapter 13:

Behind the Veil

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The Next Day, Early Morning

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[Recommended Music: Hollow Light, Muv-Luv Alternative]

---

"I'm done for, I can't feel my legs anymore…"

It's so dark, so scary, so smokey.

Hard to breathe, to move, to see.

To reach any one of them.

"H-Her vitals are still stable, Major! Just- Only some time, please. Does anyone reads me?! Wardog Six here, does anyone copy?!"

It's so dark and scary, buried between mounds of ash and tears.

Hurts to wade through, heels burning at the mere push off the ground.

At every wasted second, every wasted prayer denied an answer.

"…Did you hear that, 1st Lt Shirogane? I don't want to send anyone to the frontlines, but I can't stop anyone who volunteers."

But you cannot live with fear, can we? Capitalizing on every opportunity is a precious skill to have, is it not?

Even if the dice keeps rolling you ones time and again. Even as you drown in lemonade tsunamis.

Future is gone, time exists solely to be wasted away. That is why, the shadows are scary. An impregnable veil no progress can penetrate, no matter the effort.

"Cough! H-Hey, come on, now… Do not cry, you're a man, are you not, 1st Lieutenant?"

No matter how far you run, how long you stretch your hands. Even when your neck and back begin to pulse due to exertion, shoulders cracking more than our defenses against an incursion.

"This is the only thing… a dead soldier can do!"

Or how you tell the tale inside and outside, how much you idle your time elsewhere to make a 'profitable' use of it.

"I-It buuuurns! U-Ugaaaah!"

The curtain is falling, soon, closer.

"I'm sorry, Mama… Your garden is… all dried up now…"

You can see it coming, darkening all around.

And seeing the silent answers to your efforts collapsing in shocks should be enough, isn't it?

In front of the towering, scary shadow that looms over, what it is that you can do?

"Coward."

Will you sniff toxins and allow the smoke to morph dread into blind bliss?

"…Pull the trigger, Takeru."

If it still stings, if it still hurts, if anything at all stirs inside then maybe it is not yet too late. Although painful the tossing may be, trapped in the typhoon with the winds blowing in all directions your way. Even as your heart ricochets all over your ribs in pinball, just as life hands its cards.

Because the flooding sweat tells it is not yet over.

"…Takeru-san?"

A penguin in a desert, no longer.

"Takeru-san… Takeru-san!"

For even against the gentle rocking, the small comfort only contrasts the constriction within. Amorphous black is all young Yashiro sees, sensing only he is there, somewhere in a dream.

And she, too, reaches the same conclusion. The same answer to the dare of fate.

And that's why her shaking moves over to his face, pulling his lips until they almost pop, poking his cheeks with the same speed he would during a combo. Shaky, shaky, shaky pulls and groans she forwards as if kneading a pizza, the cackling shiver of dark crayon regressing slightly to the mechanical repetition.

Thankfully for Shirogane, his eyelids begin to twitch and lift off before the assistant decided to attempt the whack-a-mole approach to her waking duties.

"Jhust fay more mi'utes…" he slurs, face buried in the pillow.

Which she snatches with the haste of a hunting kitty. "No. You're already five minutes later than usual and… C-Come on, Takeru-san, please don't fall back asleep."

"I get it… Don' shake me, Kashumi… Yaaaaaawn, ugh," rubbing an eye, sluggishly Takeru raises from the bed in mimicry of a mummy. Only with his hair impersonating a crazy anime character and his eyes fully shut still. "Sorry, Kasumi… Hey, stop shaking me. I'm awake, dude…"

"Then, open your eyes."

"Ugh… So tired…"

"Did you not sleep well?" she asks, rubbing his arm.

"Nah, not that. I conked out again as soon as I threw myself on the bed. Just, sleepy. Like, I don't feel with any energy…" he slurs, yawning wide again, almost a scream. "Ah, damn. Piloting like mad sure took its tool on me," he nods, rubbing the moistness off his eyes.

"Is that really all there is to it?" she asks, a hand lingering near his neck. It's cold to the touch.

"Yeah? Why?"

"…Your dream was scary," she admits, stepping back and shivers then.

"Oh… Sorry," shoulders slump, gaze takes an emergency landing that fails and burns. "Did it hurt you?"

"No, it wasn't that kind of scary. I, um, the dark lines were all around you but I could still sense you were there."

"…But that's how you usually say I am?"

"No, the dark most of the time comes from inside. This time it was all around you. It was scary, but it did not hurt. I only saw darkness, couldn't hear anything."

"Huh… So I'm too tired to properly dream. Eh, maybe it was for the best," he shrugs, slowly lifting a hand towards young Yashiro. Upon an instinctive step back, another dart stabs at his heart. Stringless, the offered pat of the head only meets the air and collapses.

"Ah, my apologies. This unit did not intend to refuse your-"

"It's alright, I don't know how much my shit can affect you," Takeru shakes a nod, eyes closed tight, before sharply throwing the sheets off himself and standing. "Thanks for waking me up, for real. I'll be getting ready."

"…Understood. Bye bye," she weakly says, regaining the usual poker when the waving hand is returned and a speck of yellow shines through. "If you're feeling ill, please do call me. The Professor said she allows you to take the day off if anything is wrong."

"Got it. Don't worry, though, I'm only a bit more tired than usual," he insists, nodding and smiling. When she departs, however, the facade melts down as cold hands rise through his spine. "Yaaawn. Shit, Marimo-chan's gonna kill me if I'm like this in class… Ugh, did I wake up in a bad spot in the cycle or what? Hauuu… What wouldn't I do for some fried chicken with rice right about now."

---

A few moments later…

---

"Next pairs are Sakaki with Ayamine in HTH, Yoroi and Tamase and Mitsurugi with Shirogane using wooden weapons of your choice. Get on with it!" the Instructor shouts, echoing through the trackfield as she eyes her cadets. A brow knots down along folded arms when seeing a hand covering shrugged lips. "Shirogane, you seem so full of energy today, hmm? Would you like another five klicks in the lines?"

"N-No, ma'am! I'm just a bit tired, for real."

"Hmm… Then stop yawning already and get busy, otherwise switch your boredom for laps around the entire base if you want," she warns, hands shaking as he salutes yet sinks the chin inward not to yawn again.

As she shakes her head apathetically and takes her distance to watch the drill, the other five cross gazes and shrugs. More so as Takeru finally releases the impulse, eyes watering a bit even.

"…Hey Takeru, are you truly feeling well? You even look a bit pale," Yoroi comments, staring at the uneven motes in his complexion.

He gives a shaky thumbs up. "Yeah, don't worry, dude. Just, I'm wasted today."

"What an odd phrase… I assume you mean to say you're terribly exhausted?" Mitsurugi asks, the stoic fold of her arms and face slumping upon the little groan and nod he gives.

"Or maybe he's just playing dumb…"

"Ayamine," Sakaki warns, tapping her glasses, earning a clicking tongue. "Shirogane, I know it may be confidential but, is this related to your special missions?"

"…Half and half. Sorry, can't talk 'bout it."

"A-Anyways, maybe you should take it easy for today?" Tamase suggests, tapping her fingers, eyes blanking out as Takeru simply makes an okay with a hand.

Ayamine, Sakaki and Mitsurugi share a look, tense, until the samurai waves a finger and grabs two wooden blades from the cradle. Despite the rest soon catching the hint and dispersing yet keeping an eye on the duo, Mitsurugi's heel begins to tap the ground. Quite hard. And fast. Just as a finger does on her forearm. Because the yawn simply knows no end.

"Did- Did you not sleep well tonight?" she asks, blinking erratically.

"Nah, actually slept a lot. Like, ten hours or so." Actually more since I slept through the afternoon too, he realizes, gaping a bit.

"Do you not grow tired of sleeping overlong?"

"Yeah, of course I do. That's why I keep sleeping, probably," he says with a slow chuckle, raising his chest in jest.

"Huh… I see?"

"Anyways, my sword?" he asks, extending a hand.

"Oh, apologies. Now then, I was hoping to face you in earnest effort however…" she sighs as she sees a yawn, short, as he takes his posture. "It seems that is out of the question."

"No, it's alright. Can't slack off or Marimo-chan will only get more pissed."

"…Pardon?"

"What? I mean, she'll snap if she notices we're holding our cards back, right?"

"No, I am not disagreeing. H-However, how did you just refer to the Instructor?" she asks, paling, hands shaking as if she were out in the snow.

"How? I mean, it's how I usua- O-Oh… Fuck… Please don't tell her, Meiya."

"No, I was not intending on doing such, however… Why?"

"Sigh… You know I call everyone by their names. And when I'm tired and hungry I'm a walking danger, I space out much on a regular basis so, that but worse."

"…You just ate a serving of yakisoba as large as Ayamine's. And finished it faster than her, to her dismay let me remind."

"Yeah, but that won't hit the spot, you know? Isn't there one meal you simply like so much it's the one thing it can cheer you up whenever?" he asks, sighing and looking down, already expecting more critics.

Yet in her mind a round, red fruit appears. Excess saliva is soon gulped with noticeable sound, earning a more blazing tint to her features. "Well, I suppose I understand…"

"Mitsurugi, Shirogane! Could you stop flirting, for the Holy Emperor?! If you want to get a room, do it after the trainings!" the Instructor shouts, the other cadets stumble to the floor and onto each other during their combats. Three small puffs of dust rise out of sight, the wind thankfully sweeps away aggravations of the heaviest order.

However, the samurai in question simply tilts her head at the words. "What has owning a room to do with courting? First of all, that is not what we're doing, and second, we cannot possibly buy any rooms in the base. Also, we already have our own bunks? Shirogane, do you know what that means?"

"…Please, let's just train, Meiya."

"Hmm… Fine. However, you said you wished me to be serious, correct?" she asks, inhaling sharply, tensing every pore, blazing to the rim. Employing her most proficient stance.

It makes him shiver, almost wailing despite meeting the readiness. "Put me down gently, honey…"

Enough time for a cloud to fully traverse the sun up above passes, with the return of the daylight she lunges forth.

To the left, parried. He dives to her right, she parries it, another slash at her waist, a block. Both blades mingle for a moment, letting their breaths tickle the other, forcing each other to take a step back.

In equal manner a few crosses pass, no opening available for either even if their wrists are beginning to crack.

"…What's the matter, Shirogane? Your best effort this is not, we both know it," she says, almost puffing a cheek, threads of purple fire over her eyes.

The gaping, gasping gestures grow for a moment, gradually going back to normal. "I am trying… Gimme a break, come on…"

"Are you insinuating you wish to retract from battle again?"

"No, damn it… Whatever, dude. If you wanna come at me, then come already," he spits out, fuming from his nose.

He immediately curses his own stupidity.

"More than gladly! Prepare yourself!"

And even if a few teardrops are sliced in half along some clouds, both remain evenly matched. Due to his switch to full contention, narrowing his posture, the openings and fishing for counters. Mitsurugi does not relent, all the contrary welcomes the counters, the ripostes to the point her breath turns as ragged as his.

In another struggle of blades, as his feet try and trip hers, as her own reflection flares purple back at Mitsurugi, as fully flushed in exertion his face is to her, she decides to take a retreat, a small one. Standing there, quiet, a puff of air leaves as slowly as the minefield of sweat sliding off all of her. Then, Mitsurugi points her blade to Shirogane.

"…Mugen Kidou."

"Huh?"

"Mugen Kidou. That's the name of my style. What of yours?"

"…Name? I told you already, I don't know…"

"Hmm, truly?" she again comes at him, faster than before the martial pattern attempting to snare. "Does the name of my style not seem familiar to you?"

"…No."

"Would that be doubt in your voice, Shirogane?"

"Nah, I'm just stunned by how nice you look today, honey."

"Wh- What are you even- Gah! T-That was low! Faking flattery to breach my guard…"

"Siiigh… And you still blocked…" And I'm not even lying, she looks nice today. Upset too, yeah, it sucks, but I'll take my small wins when I can.

"So… Hya! Do you truly- Ugh! not know anything of your own swordplay?"

"…I don't know, dude. Uff… I was just taught its principles," and in whimsical sidesteps he dodges, only caring about blocking and defending.

"Really now?"

"Why you wanna know?" I was expecting questions, but about where I was yesterday. Not that those were lacking but, those eyes… those purply blazy eyes… That weird battle mania she gets into is really rare. I didn't do anything odd lately, have I?

"…Simply indulge me. Pheeew… You truly would not tell me anything? Shirogane, state your terms. I am willing to reciprocate the favor."

"I mean, there is nothing to say…"

"That cannot be. Who was your sifu?"

"…Do you really need to know that?"

"So you are refusing to tell me… I am being honest in my offer, however. And if you refuse, then do so clearly and with your motives for it."

"Come on, now. It's just a small thing, there's no way that is important enough. And I'm really not that good anyways, just got trained as a favor. For real, that's all there is to-"

"Enough prattling! Have at you!"

"W-Wait, you must chill, Meiya! L-Let's talk this ou- AAAAAHHHHH-"

SLASH!

"And now, I have you under my gra- Hey, wait! Come back here and face me!"

THUD!

"Hells no! You're gonna slash me in half again!"

CRACK!

"S-Stop running! And what do you mean again?! I've never bested you yet!"

SCREEECH!

"Then let's keep it that way!"

BOOOM!

"I refuse! Come at me already, you should be more steadfast in your resolve!"

VROOOOOM!

"I give up, you win! Stop it with the slashes! You wanna kill me or what?!"

"I-Is this some sort of courting ritual of the nobility?" Marimo wonders as the entire trackfield is unmade in clean slices and walls of purple fire, that somehow are unable to reach the mirage runner.

Her eyes briefly meet those of a trio nearby, all equally floored by the ongoing rampage. Deciding to rescue Shirogane from the maiden's wrath, the Instructor steps forward and, not without a small bruise or two, puts a stop to the squabble. Mitsurugi could almost take to the skies, what with the paleness of shame ingrained in her face that still sought Shirogane's. He, on the other hand, was pale on the verge of exhaustion. And yet, with every beat of his heart still returning from the red the numbness on the back of his head began to clear, if ever so slightly.

That did not stop the shiver and wails in front of the pyres of purple wraith aiming at him during the rest of the training and classes, arduous bruises all over him and a similar exhaustion coming to mind along a tall, snowy mountain.

---

Some hours later…

---

Quick scribbling zooms out in the room as lights pop up in the hallways, the only sound one could hear at this hour. With only a sliver of orange lingering above the horizon, the pencils are given respite and the one in front of the blackboard nods back firmly.

"Well, I suppose that shall be all for today. Remember to read up on the questions you got wrong. Tomorrow we're doing more reading on combat scenarios at morning, so do be ready for that. And do ensure to remain on your best behavior, are we clear?" she asks, daggers for eyes, they all nod immediately. "Good. Until tomorrow, then. Dismissed!"

"Salute!"

The gesture is shared, the Instructor takes her leave yet the students take some time to gather their books.

"Wow, Miki-san, that was a nice answer you got at the end!" Yoroi says, almost bouncing upon herself.

"N-No, it was all luck, to be honest…"

"Come on, even Takeru was stuck on that one. And he got lots of right answers despite being super tired, too, right?" she asks, barely receiving a nod back from him, the other three remaining silent. "Ahaha… So, uh, how hard you think the next assignments are gonna be?"

Yoroi's attempts to sow chatter on the way to the PX are as fruitless as Kouzuki's on trying to get young Yashiro to eat her carrots.

"So guys, about homework," she was not about to give up though, looking at the table as they ate, "there's this problem I really can't solve."

"Which one?" Sakaki asks, slowly drinking.

"The one in page eighty-seven, no matter what I think I can't get to the correct answer…"

"Hmm, same here, sadly. Squad?" she asks, tapping her glasses and receiving shrugs and downcast nods. Slowly, she turns to her side, gazing at the one who had not answered and was enjoying his miso. "… Shirogane, do you know the answer?"

"Hm? I mean, yeah…"

"Care to share with the group?"

"Eh, sure… It's the island assault one, right?" he asks Mikoto, who quickly nods and edges closer to the table, Tamase as well. "Ahem… Support from the Ticonderoga should prioritize the vanguard and then attack the middle of the enemy force. Let a small chaser force finish the stragglers that are too close, regroup and rebuild the line and keep the artillery support coming until the rest of the fleet arrive. The wincon isn't survival, it's annihilation. Don't bother pressing forward, use the artillery to keep the bulk of them as far away from the frontliners as you can, so that they can dispatch anyone who reaches the line without putting themselves in danger."

"Huh… Why are you not trying to expand the beach head? Wouldn't it be disadvantageous if your forces were surrounded?" Sakaki presses, resting her chopsticks.

He simply shrugs. "I got a Ticonderoga with me, that kind of fire is more than enough to keep the frontline safe, so long as a proper defense line is set. If you try to move forward you would have to spread the line, making it wider and thinner. And then you won't be able to provide fire support to all the line at the same time. By defending a smaller area you can create something of a bottleneck, which allows you to trim the amount of places you need to commit to artillery defense. So you won't have to choose between two different targets and risking your line to be breached. Remember that the goal is to protect the shore, not to defeat the aggressors."

"I see. Thanks for the advice," she gives a small nod and continues to eat.

He returns the nod, and the silence also makes a grand entrance.

"So, um, Shirogane-san, what are you doing this evening? Would you like to play something?" Tamase dares, stealing glances around, breaths short.

Thanks, sweetie, but I don't wanna ruin your games. I know the others will get on a bad mood if I'm there. "No, I'm going to rest up. I am pretty tired today."

"Are you alright? Did you catch a cold?"

Aw, thanks for worrying, honey… "Nah, I just need some time to relax, is all."

Shirogane then blinks, looking to a side. Meiya, who was sitting to his side, bumped her feet on his although continued to eat as if nothing had happened. Thinking it a coincidence, he continues to eat in silence.

Clearing her throat, Sakaki wipes her mouth and looks his way again, yet not meeting his eyes. "Shirogane, if you're free… Would you mind helping me in showing Yoroi some of the subjects we saw when she wasn't around?"

"…Sure, why not?" Even if her gestures are not entirely open yet, I'll take what chances I get to- Ouch!

This time, Meiya hits his ankle a bit more strongly, clearly on purpose. He again stares her way, but she remains quietly eating as if in a tea ceremony.

"Thank you Takeru! I really can't keep up with all of this," Mikoto beams his way, scratching her head.

Finally, he relaxes and smiles back. "Don't mention it, Mikoto. It'll be a pleasure to help." Ouch! That one hit my hams! What the hell is your problem? Why can't you just talk?! "Mitsurugi, what about you?" Takeru asks, grabbing his bowl of miso and making noise as he drinks, staring.

She directs a finger to her chin, evading the glare. "Hmmm… I have not decided yet. I was thinking on going for a jog later," she says, briefly, softly hitting his leg again, leaving hers nuzzling against his, close by.

"…So you don't wanna let the others know? Is- Is this a booty call? No, wait, this is Meiya we're talking about so it's probably a duel. So, basically, her own flavor of booty calls. Guess I'm dying today, huh. Please causality, let Tsukuyomi-san run into Mikoto or something."

"Miki-san, what will you do?" Mikoto asks.

"Me and Ayamine-san are going to do a juggle competition today," she says with blooming cheer and a small fist, Ayamine nods to the words with a smile before slurping an entire XXL bowl of yakisoba.

"…Ugh. I'm not pooping tonight…"

"Did you have to say that?!"

"Shut it, Leader… That was too much, even for me…"

"Why did you even do that, dude?"

"…I think Ayamine-san still is in shock of your hunger this morning, haha," Tamase chuckles, cracking at parts as she pats Ayamine's shoulder.

Kei herself glares at Shirogane, and gives a mini smirk. Before burping and holding her stomach as if she had been the one chased by Mitsurugi. "God… How did you manage to eat that much in one go?"

"I'm actually feeding a bunch of other Takerus across all of time-space. I hunger for millions. And sleep for millions, too."

"What kind of bullshit is that? I can't even tell if you're insulting us or not…"

"No, I mean, I was famished, really. Also, I didn't try and eat all of the bowl in one go."

"Come on, Ayamine-san. Maybe we should go to the medbay?"

"…Just give me some time. And water."

"Sigh… Well, we all need a break every now and then," Sakaki shrugs, handing Ayamine her own cup. "In any case, Shirogane, can I count on you to help Yoroi?"

"Sure, if you want," he nods, shrugging.

Sakaki simply returns a modest gesture. Mitsurugi flared purple, colliding her feet on his one final, harder time.

With little small talk four of the cadets leave the table, filing out in line.

"Well, I suppose I will go to run my laps…" Mitsurugi says, passing behind Shirogane and elbowing him softly. "Until tomorrow," she says, nodding to the others.

The other three direct themselves to the library, breaking down each problem and assignment in slow measures. Short of being a reinforcement class for Yoroi only, Sakaki ends up also requesting aid and noting down tips in haste.

"So, I shouldn't press towards the canyon?"

"No, you'll get flanked when you have to split. Your numbers will work against you here."

"Takeru, you're so smart! I thought the choke points would be a good spot to claim."

"Yeah, and that's the thing. When something's too good to be true, it's probably a trap. Why would the enemy retreat so easily from such a key position otherwise?"

"Hmm… Now that you word it like that, I can definitely see what you meant," quick notes, quicker nods, and a sigh when looking at the clock by the wall. "Well, let's leave it at that for today."

"Wow, it really got late… Yawn."

"Sorry Takeru, and you weren't feeling good since morning…"

"Hey, it's cool, Mikoto. Comrades help each other out." And I'm only paying a tidbit of the debt I owe you all for everything I know.

Quickly stuffing their bags, they leave the place and thank the clerk. Only two salutes the staff returns, a glare with lips twisted for the last to leave.

"Thanks a lot, you two! I really got a lot of things sorted out," Mikoto's usual smile widened as they exited the library.

"Don't mention it. Glad I could help you," Takeru nods, giving a thumbs up, drowning a yawn.

"Well, it's kinda late so I'll be hitting the sack now. You should go rest too, Takeru. Your eyebags don't look good at all."

"I know, thanks."

"Well, good night, you two!" and off she goes, in a pace completely unbecoming of the hour.

"Yawn… Guess I should be free now to go for a-"

"Shirogane."

Or not, whatever. "What is it, Sakaki?"

She adjusts her glasses and takes a second to speak again. "Thanks for your help. It was a relief to have you aid."

"It was the obvious thing to do, helping a squadmate."

"…Yes, of course," she stops, looks down, ruffles her arms and continues. "Well, the CCSE is getting closer, so… Let's set aside our differences for the time being."

"…Okay, got it. No hard feelings?" he asks, raising a hand.

She takes half a step back. "It is getting late, we should return to our rooms before curfew ends. And let's… try and work together as best as we're able. Good night," she says with half a salute, departing without waiting for an answer.

"Not a win, but I'll take a ceasefire alright. Now, even if I'm tired I don't feel sleepy… And ain't no way I'm jumping into another duel with Meiya this late. Let's just go for the walk I wanted to go, need to clear my head a bit. My ears have been killing me all day…"

---

A little while later…

---

One lap, two laps, four, five. It was a small warm up.

Three laps more, four, six, seven. Jogging clearly, a rhythm shared between lungs and legs.

Five laps, six, eight, nine. And then the tenth one came and went, sweat already coating her entire body, glistening under the fair showing of a full moon that had began to dwindle, a small shadow in a corner.

"…And where is he?" she fumes, the extra impulse from the exercise sending her to the taps. Hitting the button to hard gains her a smack of water against her face, ruining her symmetrical fringe and almost making Mitsurugi take off with those blimps for cheeks.

Yet even as she properly refreshes herself and tries, and fails, to fix her hair no one comes to the trackfield. Lights begin to dim and shut off in the building, less and less silhouettes sliding on the distance. Slow steps she takes towards her bag, to the base, slowly like a turtle, and yet there is no sign of anyone coming as she goes back inside.

So you'd understand, very much purple is the fire of those eyes. "I cannot believe… To refuse a request to talk in private as well. I do not wish to begin assuming, however this is… this is… Shirogane?" she asks the air, suddenly clinging to a window.

The few lights outside, near the gate, indicate that indeed Shirogane was there, showing a paper to the guard staff. A moment of idle talk ensues before he is allowed out of the base.

"Where is he going at this late an hour? Is this a special mission? Well, I do have my first permit I never used yet… Ugh, do I take after him? No, he is already leaving and… I could wait by the gate, yes… Mmgh! No! What am I saying?" immediately rushing off while messing with her bag.

Clearing the distance to the exit has her requesting passage, showing the old permit to the guards. Small snickers and jabs are sent her way, to non-existent success.

"How odd. Why would they assume I called Shirogane for any treasure? Furthermore, if there were any 'booty' in the ruins it would belong to its owner or descendants, or to the Empire if none were left. Also, should someone find a treasure, what is the point of calling to share it? All stories I read with Grandfather about pirates and the like were always a chase for the booty… Sigh. I cannot comprehend some people, honestly," she quietly fumes as they open the gates, smiling and making odd sweeping gestures with their closed hands, aiming for the lips. "Why are they poking their inner cheek with their tongue? And why are they looking at me? They… wouldn't be saying my dental hygiene is lacking, are they?"

Shortly after and with no words from Meiya, the gate is opened and she hastily departs into the hill.

"And now they're whistling… I fear I might be missing a joke of some sort here… Perhaps, Shirogane will know what this is about. Another reason to find him. Wait, what if he had actually received a booty call? Is he looking for some sort of treasure in this area?!"

A rather gentle jogging turns into a sprint, heels burning slightly upon the exertion. Heart almost still upon the desertion of life down the hill, a visage where no warmth could ever stick to regardless of any sunshine.

Spotting a silhouette in the distance down the distant slope, Mitsurugi proceeds to try and dash downhill.

It goes wrong and she almost becomes a perfect copy of one certain famous hedgehog.

The quietness, however, aids her search. Even if a part of her wished to turn around, seeing all those puzzles never to be fixed, all the somethings collapsed to dust, wondering where, if anywhere, were the owners of these ruins, Mitsurugi reaches a somber conclusion as she follows distant sounds on empty streets.

The place was actually full of treasures never to be unearthed, if not for looters seeking material gain. How many emblems and phrases, how many pictures and customs had been forever lost in a sepia map leading nowhere.

At some point, the original motive for her walk became secondary as she admired the city she once dreamed of walking freely on. Air undisturbed, as stagnant as the road. Time goes on, and even if cruel it can also heal, but that which remains still can never be mended. It can only rot in the depths and be forgotten. Here and now, Mitsurugi remembered something she had forgotten. The long, never-ending gray corridor of the ruins, the small vantage point from a locked door, the waiting.

Shadows are, oh, so scary.

So scary in fact that, when she hears something close by, Mitsurugi almost yelps and slips off to the street. Hugging the walls, aware of breathing and gulping, she wades and waddles closer. Peeking from the corner, she spots a Gekishin fallen on a house. And another house, in better shape than most around, with someone standing there, or rather crouching by the doorside.

---

[Recommended Music: And Love You Shall Find, Final Fantasy XIV.]

---

"Hey, come back, come over,"

Soft as silk.

"Sing me a fossil's song,"

Crushed as the ruins around.

"and lull me to sleep with a strong, deep kiss,"

Crestfallen as the nearby TSF.

"Seal all the seasons you lived inside of me,"

And yet, it captivated all available moonlight, those eyes under the shade of his rebel hair.

"all the whiiile- blinding my eyes shut."

Those eyes seeking the stars, clawing at them.

"Hey, come back, come over,"

Those lips, curling, nibbled.

"Let's walk in this spiral road, until we both blur and become one again."

Those words, stretched, weary and ragged.

"Hold my hand, return into me right before it aaall breaks down. Scar me all over until our hearts overlap."

Those small wisps of light below his eyes, two smallest teardrops that fell so fast they might as well not even have been there.

"Wanna fly off the sea, one wing at a time? Won't you stay until summer ends- Huh? M-Meiya?!"

"O-Oh… Why, h-hello Shirogane. What a coincidence, running into you here…"

"That's not a- What are you doing here?!" he asks, stepping back harshly, throwing mad glances around so fast his neck stings a bit after the fact.

"I- Ahem… My apologies," she says, finally walking closer, hands together as she bows slightly. "I had been waiting for you in the trackfield but you did not appear. As I was retiring to the barracks, I caught a glimpse of you leaving the base and… well, as you can see, curiosity got the best of me. Forgive me, there is no ill intent on my part."

"I see…" he says, taking another step back. And another.

"Wait, I am not here to argue with you! I honestly only wish to talk," she asks, nodding his way upwards, showered in moonlight.

"Sigh… Fine. Not like running away now is gonna do anything. So, what's up?" he asks, sitting on the small debris available. "Did something happen to your hair?"

"Hm? Why do you ask?"

"Your fringe is always tidy and nice, now it's kinda sloppy and all messy. Kinda like my hair."

"I-Is that so… Siiigh. Yes, I pressed the tap too strongly and this is the result of my folly," she says, slowly walking closer, a few fingertips roving the Gekishin.

"Huh… So if you want another duel, I'm gonna have to nope outta it."

"I would not request that this late into the night."

"And I meant forever. I rather like my limbs where they at right now."

"…Come on, I would not truly slice your arms off or any such thing. Do you truly think me such a brute?"

"Meiya, did you saw how you left the trackfield?"

"I-I know not what you speak of. And anyways, do not sidetrack me," she sighs, stepping closer, glancing to a side. "Is this someplace important to you?"

"…No, I just stopped here by coincidence," he says, throwing a glance back, at the upper window of the house.

"Hmm. I see. Did you not know there is a small hill behind the base? It is certainly better than coming all the way here if you wanted a breather."

"I like it quiet," he nods, scratching his head.

"I see… By the by, what was the song you were singing about?" she asks, crouching too.

"I wasn't singing," he shrugs, edging away.

"I clearly heard you. You looked… in pain as you sang. What is it about?" she insists, sitting on the ground, by the door, right besides.

Sigh… She ain't gonna let this slide, huh. "…I think it's a song from a story I liked."

"…You think?"

"Yeah, I think."

"You cannot remember?"

"Can you recall everything you did in your childhood with perfect precision?"

"…No, sadly. Is it something important for you?"

"Yeah, you could say that…"

Looking up, up at the moon. Just as he had done that day, unable to sleep. Finishing Maniax Mode, unlocking the Skull Kaizer, rushing its campaign. Enduring the ensuing headache, the urge to vomit yesterday's breakfast.

"You think it's just another route, that it's just another awesome campaign. And then the fucking assholes of MofuMofu and Torerorero dare to put actual feels in a Valgern-On ending… Tango singing her goodbyes as she forces the main character out of the Kaizer to be destroyed by his own hand, right after you have to go against all of the old crew too, was a curve ball I wasn't expecting. Siiigh…"

"Is it something personal?" she whispers. "So this is the booty he was searching, a quiet place to reminisce."

"…No, it only makes me feel sad," he says, rubbing his neck slowly to drive away the tickle of cold hands.

"Is that so… Would that have anything to do with your swordplay?"

"No, no… Swords are not the only thing on my mind, Meiya."

"And yet your skill would say otherwise."

"…You're just salty you can't slice me in half on a daily basis."

"Wh- I am not! Shirogane, do you truly see such a brute in me?" she asks, leaning forward, shoulders almost bumping. And gaping upon the immediate nod.

"I mean, you constantly beat the living shit out of me in my first loops to raise your 'warrior spirit' or some shit. And every time I thought I made some progress you left my tatters whirling in the air," he sighs, hands behind his head as he leans back against the wall, gazing at the stars. "Every thing about you lately is swordplay this, swordplay that. If that's what you want to talk about, sorry but I don't have anything else to tell you."

"…Hmm, I see," she slowly stands, walking in front of him. Blocking the moon, replaced by her eyes. "If you will continue to feign ignorance despite my attempts at parley, allow me to be direct then. Shirogane… Why do you possess a Minaru Kamui?"

"…W-What?"

"Oh, did I stutter? Apologies," she says, giving an honest nod, taking a step back but not lifting her eyes off his. "I asked, why do you possess a Minaru Kamui?"

And then, silence.

Enough for a sharp breath in, for a slow standing motion to take long enough for the wind to rustle close to them both.

Yet none of the usual Shirogane she had come to know remains in front. Rugged steel, bracing posture, narrow lips and eyes, the breaths more so.

"Quite the revealing reaction…"

"What are you talking about, Meiya?"

"Please, do not try and deflect the matter. Going by your face, you must know the blade you possess holds said name, at the least."

"Just- How did- Did you enter my room?"

"…Yes, apologies," she says, wilting. "I could not contain my curiosity, I had gone to look for you during the emergency alarm and you were not in your room. But there I found a small steel case, and I could not restrain myself," she offers a bow.

It does not thaw the frozen gorgon in front of her. "…What are you aiming to do? Dig dirt on me?"

"What? No! That was not my intention at all! I only… You must know of the name, at the least. I know not what the case and the card inside mean, frankly it is none of my business. However, the Minaru Kamui is another matter entirely," she asserts, taking a step closer. "I'm doing this for your own good, believe me."

"Yeah, sure, you ransacked my room for my sake, sure."

"I did no such thing, please, let us not fall to animosity. What can you tell me of the blade? Who gave it to you?"

"…And what if I don't wanna answer?" he says, circling away, to the street.

She quickly blocks his way, now returning the friction to the rim. "Reacting in this manner is not wise. If you've no ill intentions, why deny an answer?"

"What is it to you? I got the blade from its previous owner. There, happy now?"

"Siiigh… Shirogane, we are squadmates. Although brief, our shared time has built some modicum of trust between us, I believe," she reasons, pacing slowly, cutting his way back to the base. "Be honest with your answer. Are you… a member of the Royal Guard?"

"…Huh?"

"Hm? What?"

"Me? Me of all people? The guy that can't Keigo at all and keeps calling everyone by their names? You think I am a Royal Guard?"

"It is certainly possible, your skills warrant much praise," she nods, immutable as the wind sways her hair up. "Only the members of the IRG are allowed to wield katanas in the Empire, after all."

"Wait, for real?"

"You… did not know this? Don't tell me you illegally entered the Minaru Kamui when you arrived here…"

"Does jumping through timelines to the middle of nowhere count as illegal? Because if so, everything I am is against the law… against the laws of physics, for sure, at least."

"Oh, by the Emperor," Mitsurugi facepalms, fingers clutching her face before firing a glare his way, stepping closer. "You brought a Minaru Kamui into the Empire and did not even declared your possession of it?! Do you even know the kind of tribulations this could cause you?!" she asks, palming the thighs of the fallen Gekishin.

"…But it's just a blade."

"Just a blade? Just a blade?!"

"I-I'm sorry, I know it's important but-"

"You've not an ounce of an idea of what you speak of! How could you not know such an obvious thing? I swear, did your parents never taught you anything about the Regent Houses and our traditions?" she asks, arms folding tight.

Yet Takeru looks up, sighing and again clawing at the stars for a moment. "…I think my parents are dead by now."

"W-What… Wait, you think?"

"It's been so long already, hasn't it," yeah, by now my home must be integrating all of the disasters still lingering there. It would take a miracle for the improvised fission to have succeeded. The fact I didn't disappear is proof enough something went wrong…

"Shirogane. Shirogane!"

"O-Oh. Sorry, didn't meant to space out," he gives a small nod, edge distilled and gone. He still takes a step back, avoiding her eyes.

"You… You do not remember where your parents are?"

"Doesn't matter, does it?"

"…Actually, it very well might. Who gave you the sword? Was it an heirloom from them?" she asks, he shakes his head. "Then, who?"

"Sigh… What are you going to do even if I told you?"

"You do not realize the position you're in, do you? Shirogane, keeping the Minaru Kamui is a crime. Such blades are heirlooms of the nation, they are not meant for anybody to wield. And since you have it illegally, an investigation for its origins will be started if you do not return it."

"Are…. Wait a fucking second! You're gonna snitch on me?!"

"What a coarse word… I just said the blades are a treasure of the Empire. No one sane would simply leave them unattended in your hands," she says, nodding with a gentle brush of a hand.

He instead hits the house's walls. "You're still gonna sell me out. The hell's your problem with me?"

"Please, let us not fall to animosity. I am only-"

"I won't hand it over."

"Eh?"

"I won't, threaten me as much as you want, Mitsurugi. The Minaru Kamui stays with me."

"…Shirogane," one step forward, knuckles crack, "I have been trying to be tactful, in deference of our relation as squadmates," a sigh through clenched teeth, a leg remains behind in bracing position, "but were you to refuse to hand over such a treasure, I will be left with little choice other than to report it to the authorities. And in your condition, that will certainly spell the end of your career as a soldier."

"W-What are you talking about? My… condition? What the hell you think you know about my condition?!"

"I checked your profiles. Your public profile is mostly blank, almost as if you had been exiled. Anything to share on this matter?" she asks, rolling pebbles away to get closer.

Inciting further steps back, until he collides with the door. "There was only some missing data… that's all, Sensei was already sending the papers to fix it."

"Hmm. So, I assume, then, that you're able to answer how you obtained the sword?" she asks, still, as cold as the gale, as pale as the moon.

Bracing in the shade, treading the wall, Takeru shivers a bit, cold hands poking his side. "…It was a present."

"A present?" she blinks once, twice, features tightening.

"Yes, someone gave it to me as a memento before I came to this base."

"Then, what was their name?"

"…You, you fucking idiot. It was yet another promise I broke between us. I failed to stop the explosion of the power plant, I didn't come back safely… but that doesn't mean I'm giving up on fulfilling my part." Inhaling hard, the wind tickles and washes Takeru with softness. With lavender, from the swaying hair. Softening the grudge, it all unties and loosens. "Doesn't matter. She's dead."

"She's… Oh. Wait, you had said someone had passed away due to your follies… Is this-"

"Believe it or not, it's the truth. That sword is not mine, it's our sword. And it's my way of honoring all I learned from her and could never repay. That's why, I won't part with it."

"Even if it could place you in court?"

"Think of it as my ticket home. The Minaru Kamui is something like that for me, a way back to how things were, to not forget my mistakes and stumble twice. Thanks for taking the time to warn me about this instead of suing me or snitching, but I won't part ways with it."

"…The Shogunate won't stay quiet. No one from the UN will go to your aid for such an affront."

"Let 'em come, then." Those militassholes already took enough from me, like hell I'll hand over my Meiya's sword to them.

"You… You must truly have cherished that woman much…" she says, soft, idling a hand on her hair to stop it from dancing to the wind's whims.

Taking one last breath of the perfume, Takeru nibbles on his lips as he throws himself softly to the wall. "Yeah."

"Regrettably, if you cannot clarify who she was, nor are willing to return the sword, you might be court marshaled," Mitsurugi says, looking down. Once she returns herself upright, she gives half a bow his way, staring. "Would you accept a suggestion I have to resolve this situation then?" she asks, waiting an answer.

"I'm all ears."

"I would like you to come with me to meet a unit of the Royal Guard that is stationed on this base. You must have met them already, I believe? We should hand the blade to them, I will do my best efforts to clear any suspicions they may have against you if you cooperate. No harm shall befall you, so long as you hand over the Minaru Kamui willingly."

"That… isn't a solution, it's literally what you said before. And if it's illegal for me to have the sword, telling the Guards will only make it worse. You think they'll let it slide with only a slap on the wrist?" No, I should get Sensei's advice here… Who am I kidding? She's gonna return the blade without a second thought if it's a nuisance to her. No, this is my fight. I can't rely on anyone else.

"You sound as if you didn't want to meet the Royal Guard… And I assure you, they shan't come after you. My… image is enough of a deterrent," Mitsurugi admits, hunching a bit, again edging closer. "What say you?"

"Meiya, I'm sorry, but no is no. Don't force my hand, please."

"…Force your hand? Are you threatening me?"

"No. But I won't betray her twice."

"Please, you don't know anything-"

"You're the one who doesn't know anything."

"Beg your pardon?"

"You keep going back to your traditions, which are completely valid, but are ignoring what I'm telling you. This sword is what ties me home. It's a memento of my comrades, of my loved ones, of my… cowardice. From your eyes, this might be treason. But to me, this is all I've left of who I was. And I am not going to part ways with them, not until I can fulfill my promise."

"…I know not your motives, but if you feel so strongly, if this woman was so close to you, surely, giving me her name should be easy enough. You should be aware of the real meaning of the Minaru Kamui if you cherish it so, are you not?" she asks, sober.

"It's real meaning? Is this about how you give the handguard to someone to tell them that-"

"N-No! It's not about that! How can you know of that and not of what I'm asking you?" sudden embers raise in cheeks and eyes, she hastily steps back, almost tripping. "I swear… You're a most odd fellow, Shirogane."

"I just heard about that once, that's all. So, I don't know what's the hidden meaning of the blade. What's up with that?"

"…Someone gave that blade to you, or welcomed the idea of gifting it to you. Surely you can tell the significance?" Mitsurugi asks, nodding bright at the moon. Upon his silence in puzzle, she pinches her nose and steps closer. "Fine. What is the color of the hilt in the Minaru Kamui you own?"

"…Blue."

"Hmm, indeed. Surely that is clear enough?"

"…No?"

"Wh- I- You cannot be serious!"

"But I don't get it. You… seem to know a lot. Do you have one Minaru Kamui of your own?"

"H-Huh?! I, uh, what makes you think that, I wonder?"

"Siiigh… You're asking me if I know of this sword, if my form of swordplay is similar to yours. It seems you think I am tied to the IRG somehow, which, awful miss there, not gonna lie, and that's why you searched my room. Someone of your skill was clearly taught about history of swordsmanship, and that's why you know the Minaru Kamui, right?" he throws out, resting against the Gekishin.

"…And not because of my face?"

"Huh? What has that to… Oh my shit…"

"D-Don't tell me you just realized what I meant… Please, tell me it isn't so."

"W-Wait up, hold your horses! You mean, like, blue like, you know, the Regent Houses?!" he asks, glitching upon her nod. "And just like yours… like the Regent you… Awawawawa…"

"Are you… imitating Tamase?"

"What the fuck?! I mean, the Minaru Kamui was an heirloom of Meiya's family back home, so it makes sense that'll be the same over here. But this is… The Minaru Kamui belongs to the Koubuin House, the Shogun's House…"

Slowly patting his shoulder, a soft nod she gives. "Please, be at ease. My offer still stands, Shirogane. I am not officially a member of the Shogun's House. As I said, it is only a resemblance," she sighs, softly cradling her own waist. "You were correct, I do possess a Minaru Kamui myself. The heirloom is a sign of trust and nobility, it equals a Regent's blessing. Ours is also the one special design of the current House of the Shogun. Certainly, you can now see the danger it poses to cling to it?" she asks with a fair nod, breathing shuffling in as he steps backwards continuously. "Wait, why are- I am a vassal of the nation, just like you. Do not fear me."

"I… I don't fear you, Meiya."

"Then, why are you stepping away? Have you seen a ghost?"

"He hasn't, but perhaps I have," a cold voice rasps.

"Wh- Tsukuyomi?! What are you doing here?!" Mitsurugi bounces back, almost standing besides Takeru now.

"Oh, I thought it was a fine night for a stroll, you see. And then I saw one certain young lady arguing with the guards by the gate… It seems my hunch was correct," she says, frowning at Takeru, "it would seem we found the jackpot, didn't we Shirogane Takeru?"

"And she's still using my full name… So she's still pissed at me."

"Wait, what do you- Gaaasp!"

"Hm? Meiya-sama? Whatever is the matter?" Mana raises a hand towards the statue Mitsurugi had become, flinching a bit when the young lady whirs her head to and fro between she and Shirogane.

"I knew it! I knew that's what it was! You were waiting here all this time, weren't you?" she asks Takeru, arms folded and almost tackling him in the breach of space.

"W-What? No, I was literally just chilling."

"Hmph, do not think you can deceive me."

"Meiya-sama, forgive me, but I do not have the faintest idea of what you're speaking now…"

"Tsukuyomi, do not play dumb. You just said it yourself, you are here looking for a treasure. So it was you all along who gave Shirogane a booty call!"

"…What?" both Mana and Takeru say in unison, then look at each other.

Both whirl back, colliding into what's closest headfirst before rearing back into a draconian glare at the samurai, their faces flushing crimson.

"Meiya, what the fuck?!"

"Huh? Is something the matter?"

"Of course there is, young miss! I do not recall teaching you such vulgarities!"

"Well, I agree is is rather coarse, however, isn't that why you're here? Shirogane, did Tsukuyomi not made any such calls your way?"

"I-I mean, she is really beautiful, I admit. But that's not- W-Wait, Tsukuyomi-san! You must chill, put that boulder down… M-Meiya, aiudame…" he pleads, hiding behind the blue.

"Why are you speaking in English now? And you did call her by name, as well. Tsukuyomi, what is- Agaaah!"

"Silence! Shut your damn mouth! What do you even think you're speaking about?!" Mana roars, pulling one ear far beyond natural elasticity, leaving it more like an elf's one.

"Ouch! B-But the guards at the gate said-"

"Do you think I would lower myself to such conduct?!"

"N-No! I know you wouldn't steal treasures left behind but I just, well-"

"Wait, treasures?" Mana blinks, letting go. "Meiya-sama, do you… even know what a, ahem, booty call means?"

"Hm? Isn't it an invitation to claim treasure and gold? You know, like the stories Grandfather told me about pirates and the like."

"…I- But- You…"

"Oh my fucking God…" Takeru covers his face, takes a small distance, then headbutts the Gekishin with all his might. "Ugh, goddammit Meiya! If only you weren't so adorable when you're confused…"

"S-Shirogane, what are you doing?" Mitsurugi rushes to his side, drying her mouth at the bruise left in his forehead. "Why would you do such a thing? You could end with a concussion!"

"I really needed to get that image off my head, thank you very much."

"Hm? What image?"

"What you said, of me and-" he looks at Mana, gulps and looks down, idling a hand on the back of his head. "You know, the call."

"…So, a booty call is not actually a notice to claim valuables?"

"No, you silly, of course not."

"Then, what is it about?"

"…Anyways, 1st Lt Tsukuyomi-"

"Wait, don't ignore me."

"-it seems we meet again."

"Indeed we do," Mana says, brushing her head, enjoying the wind before stepping closer.

"So you did know each other. Was that due to a boo-"

"Meiya, shut the fuck up!"

"W-What? Could you please stop swearing? I have done nothing to earn such mistreatment!"

"…Meiya-sama," Mana pinches her nose, before petting the young lady's head, "this one was deserved. Please, do not ever repeat those words," she asks, gaining a groan and a half nod. Looking to a side, to the one resting on the Gekishin, Mana strolls up to him. "And as for you, certainly you're not getting any funny ideas."

"Believe me, I don't wanna think about that. Let's just forget she ever said anything."

"What does that mean?" Mitsurugi asks, tilting her head, staring at both.

Takeru shrugs first. "That it feels kinda wrong, is all." Sure, Tsukuyomi-san is beautiful, yes, but be it our shared time in other worlds or the fact this one is an actual soldier just has me off on the thought. She always felt more like a sister looking after the kids, to be honest. "So, 1st Lt, I don't suppose you're here just to take a walk."

"…No, I am not. But you are not the motive of my presence. Meiya-sama."

"Yes?"

"It seems you ignored my advice."

"Ah… Yes. Apologies."

"Your feet were rather busy during dinner tonight. Did you enjoy Shirogane's warmth besides you?" she asks, cold as she stares at both.

Takeru chokes on nothingness.

Meiya simply blinks a bit. "No, not particularly… I was attempting to gain his attention, I admit it."

"I see…" she says, walking, pacing in front of both, eyes always on him. "It would seem you both were in the middle of an argument. It must've been dire for you to ignore my warning. What has this… man done to earn your interest?"

Mitsurugi, rather than speaking, walks closer to Shirogane, nudging him a bit. Upon his silence, she wilts once more. "…If I speak, there will be no coming back for you."

"…Do whatever feels right for you." It literally doesn't matter. I'll just reset myself again if it comes down to it. I'm already used to rolling ones all the damn time.

"Siiigh… Tsukuyomi, during the last emergency alarm I allowed my curiosity to get the better of me. I entered Shirogane's room while he was gone. And there, I found he has a katana in his possession."

"I see… This man would not seem to possess any ties to the nobility, correct?"

"Yes. However, the blade I found was not any katana. It was a… a Minaru Kamui."

"…Pardon?" she asks, gaping as the gale finally penetrates the facade. "He has a- Shirogane, you own a Minaru Kamui?"

"Yeah."

"And you… are aware of the importance of this one item?" she steps closer, his sight does not budge as he nods.

"Actually, he did not," Mitsurugi interrupts, arms folded. "It took me a great deal of effort to deliver the precarious situation he's in."

"Yeah, just dunk on me, it's free anyways… So, you're gonna kill me, sue me, detain me?" he asks lifting his back off the steel, returning an equally rusted glare at the guard.

Who, unlike the other two had expected, remained as immutable as the sky. Simply staring as the moonlight showered on them, a vast green scanning his every pore while hers did not as much as twitch.

"Can you explain how you came to possess such an heirloom?"

"…No."

"Not even the name of who it belonged before you?"

"No."

"You do realize what this blade symbolizes, do you?"

"Yes, it's the sword that belongs to the House of… H-Her Highness, correct?"

"Then, what reason have you to cling to such a treasure? It very well could end with you court marshaled."

"Meiya already tried to warn me, don't waste your breath. The sword is a window back home, the last memento I have. Sorry, but you're gonna have to pry it from my cold, dead hands, 1st Lt," he says, meeting the glare.

"Shirogane, please," Mitsurugi elbows him softly. "1st Lt Tsukuyomi, please do not listen to him. The repercussions this could have are-"

"Silence."

"Eh?"

"Meiya-sama, you've done your part. Now let me play mine," she softly says, waving down a negative, tightening her gloves as she looks back at Takeru. "So you will choose death over freedom? What compels such a choice?"

"Siiigh… I literally just said the sword is all I've left to remember my old comrades. It's the symbol of the oath I made… before coming here."

"Would you share it with us?"

"…Why?"

"Well, it is interesting, that a fellow Japanese would refuse so adamantly to release this type of item," she reasons, Mitsurugi relents a nod as she stares his way, unblinking.

Shaking his head, Takeru again looks up, to the stars. "For me to despair after I'm dead. To keep moving forward no matter what. Because if the future is crying, it's up to me to make it smile," he declares, echoing in the void of the ruins, as he looks back at the house.

"…That's quite the odd phrase," Mitsurugi notes.

"You will make the future smile?" Mana asks, lips shrugging, drying over and over. Yet no draconian spell, no embers could break the dry ice rampart. "It would seem you met an awful fate, did you not? Did the previous owner asked such out of you?"

"No, that's my own resolution. It's a reminder to not push my burdens onto others, to make the most of everything I have. Even a coward can do that little…" he whispers, looking again to the skies, missing the slight flinch in the guard's veneer.

"Sigh. Shirogane, within the warrior, dread must not make nest," Mitsurugi repines, facepalming, and idling a hand on loose threads on her fringe. "You truly should be more steadfast in your resolve, if its symbol is one of our Empire's blue blades." And furthermore, you, a coward?

"I mean, you think what you want, but I'm still here thanks to all the help others gave me. If not for their support, I wouldn't be standing as I am now. Even if it gets harder to recall, I simply want to return the kindness. That's why," he kicks a rock, launching it off the street, "I won't run away from my problems again."

"I do not intend to criticize," Mitsurugi sighs, pacing, "however, for us warriors such words are unnecessary. It is noble of you to wish to return the favor, but only when embracing Death can you truly be free of all shackles."

"…That fucking sucks. Your life does matter, regardless of whatever your codes say," he protests.

"And dismissing the olden wisdom shall only narrow your vision. War never changes, Shirogane, even if the road we must follow is of our own making. You should hoist your scars with pride, not allow regret to infest you."

"And I think you need a hug. I am not proud of my failures, there's no honor nor glory to be found in such things," he spits, kicking at the steel while tasting salt.

"Yet failure is the only road to success. And to cloud yourself with self-deriding thoughts is the worst affront you could do against your tutors."

"Siiigh… We're not going to see eye to eye, are we?" he shrugs, slumping against the Gekishin, closing his eyes. "Whatever. I'm still not handing over the sword."

"Wh- Shirogane, please, listen to reason! If you-"

"Meiya-sama," Mana raises a hand, blocking the young lady and shaking her head, slowly. "May I ask what do you plan to do with the Minaru Kamui, Shirogane?"

"Eh, the same I was doing. Train at night every now and then."

"And what else?"

"Nothing, that's it."

"You… will not attempt to use its royal perks to your advantage?"

"Me and you Royal Guards don't exactly mix well, 1st Lt, I'm sure you can tell," he chuckles, giving pats to the steel.

Mitsurugi is again stopped by the gloved, tight hand. Yet in the same monotony of the sky Mana's expression remains, she then takes a few steps back. "Regrettable. Your attitude would make me feed you natto for a month were you under my care, but I shall praise your grit, Shirogane. Such poise must have been nurtured by apt tutors; I'm certain that if they'd saw you they would be proud."

"…I don't agree." Inhaling slow, he steps forward, closer, closer to the house's door. "So should I expect you to sue me or something?"

"…No."

"What?"

"Tsukuyomi, surely you jest?" she asks, Mitsurugi tilts more than Takeru in front of the honest, immediate nod. And the small smile she forwards, glimmering like the stars above.

"Tis not due to greed or pride, it is clear this young man has his heart in the correct place, his manners notwithstanding. Few are the recruits that respect their tutors as he does. Certainly, their feelings towards him must be equal, or greater even, to have bestowed such a precious item to him. I believe… they'd rejoice to see Shirogane safeguarding it thus," she nods, small but firm, offering a hand. "Please, there is no reason to doubt me. I shall not act against you, Shirogane."

"…Really?"

"Yes," she says, and smiles wider when he returns the handshake. "I do advise you to keep the blade hidden; Tell no soul about it. Meiya-sama, the same goes for you," both nod quickly, he steps back and clenches the hand, still lingering of odd warmth. "For the moment, I shall trust in your words, Shirogane. However, as you should know, the Minaru Kamui is the blade of the Koubuin House. Your own feelings aside, to hold it equals to be a servant of the Shogun."

"…So I won't really keep it, huh."

"I never said such," she smiles, pacing away, letting him breathe, toying with her hair. "It is a delicate matter, and I would like to approach this in the most respectful way possible for the prior owner, who was certainly a fellow of mine. I've business away from this base, won't be returning until after you complete the CCSE, most likely. Do expect me to return with news regarding this matter, Shirogane."

"Tsukuyomi, wait," Mitsurugi steps forward, bowing slightly, "we shall be away from the base. There is the possibility that someone finds the blade while we're away. Even more, people are bound to inquire into this little walk outside."

"Understandable, yes. However, if the sword is truly so precious, certainly Shirogane will find a way to keep it safe?" she asks, sideglancing him.

"Sigh… I will have to, now that I know people will just barge into my room."

"I will not do so twice, be assured," Mitsurugi says, bowing slightly. "However, don't you see this is an invaluable opportunity for you, Shirogane?"

"…About what?"

"Tsukuyomi is willing to vouch for you, rather than immediately take the blade away. Considering your style-" she starts, Mana lightly clears her throat, causing Mitsurugi to compact posture and wordings, walking closer to the Gekishin, to him, "you could perhaps be granted the chance to officially take on the Minaru Kamui."

"Eh… Not interested."

"…What? B-But someone of your skill could very easily be inducted into the IRG, and will surely raise through the ranks here in the UN with-"

"Don't care about badges or a position. I am here to end the war, and regain my peace. I honestly don't think I'm a good fit for such objectives." Plus, I owe the Valkyries from last loop and I already fucked up here. No way I'm leaving to make bank.

"However- Someone of your style, with your talents, it could-"

"Meiya-sama," Mana shakes her head, still and immovable under the pleading gaze. "He has expressed himself, it is his choice. Regardless of the motive behind the gift of the blade, you shouldn't meddle in his decision."

"But he could be an equal, he already is. A fellow in training for Her Highness, handpicked as well. Yet ignorant he remains of his own knowledge, of his own tutors' efforts. After all Tsukuyomi has said, he'd show no honor to the boon, despite knowing the handguard tradition?" she groans, again throwing herself to a wall. "You know of the handguard, yet you would refuse this bestowal?"

"…I mean, I can't marry someone who's gone, you know? She's… not in this world."

Mana clears her throat, tapping her chin for a moment. "It is not solely the handguard that was bequeathed onto your hands. Surely, you would understand the wishes of who gifted it to you?" she asks, leaning onto the steel to stare into his eyes. Mitsurugi pales slightly upon the words.

"Is there another hidden meaning here or?" he asks.

"No, I only stated the obvious," Mana says, nodding.

He simply kicks at the Gekishin again, looking up. "Whatever, my answer doesn't change. So… that's it?"

Mana nods, folding both arms behind her back. "Yes, that is all."

"Tsukuyomi, are you certain this is wise? I do think Shirogane cherishes his Minaru Kamui, however-"

"Meiya-sama, would you be trying to sway me with your position?"

"I am only asking if this is truly wise, other ill-natured fellows may try and use this to Shirogane's detriment, to say nothing on what this could do in the wrong hands."

"Then, I will have you stand down, young lady," Mana says, moving to closer to the Gekishin, patting the tailend of the steel, gazing back at Shirogane. "My orders when it comes to dealing with… the likes of him are of an order of magnitude beyond yours. This is a matter she and only she can decide on. Certainly, you will not raise objections?" she asks, glaring. Mitsurugi sighs and quickly shakes a nod, resting against the house's walls.

"Wait, what? I mean, I get that if the sword is as important as it seems it is really dangerous to leave it lying around but… for those words, for someone who can order Tsukuyomi-san beyond Meiya, that has to be… Yuuhi. She's… going to bring this up to Her Highness, of course. I can only hope Yuuhi doesn't ask for my head. I… Yeah, against the Shogun there's little to be done, huh."

"In any case, you two," Mana coughs, walking on the street, straightening her posture, and staring until both get closer. "Do not let this argument sow discord among you. Meiya-sama, your actions against Shirogane's privacy are quite shameful. I expect you to mend this error of yours," she scalds, the young lady relents a deep bow. "Shirogane, I would advise you to not grow adusted with such ease. You seem capable enough, dominate your temper and you shall become a fine soldier, I believe."

"…Thanks?"

She narrows her eyes, just a bit. "Ahem… And finally, there is no need for you to keep clashing as you did this morning. As fellows, you should be lending your strengths to the other, working as one. I rather come back to see you commissioned, if at all possible."

"Ye-Yes, 1st Lt!" Mitsurugi salutes sharply, at attention.

Takeru, however, simply returns a nod. "Don't worry, we're going to clear the test."

"Hmm… You seem rather sure of yourself," Mana comments, simply observing. "I advise you to raise your guard, Shirogane. You never know when you can meet someone more amazing than yourself."

He simply shrugs, messing with his hair, and getting an elbow from Mitsurugi.

"Well, in any case, we should be returning to base. Meiya-sama, take the lead if you could."

"Huh? Why me?"

"If you two return together, rumors will brew. Space your return, it is for the best."

"I see… Will the rumors be about some sort of booty-"

"Meiya-sama!"

"F-Fine! Mmgh… However, well…" she gazes at Takeru, lips and fingers going inwards, before feeling the cold poke of a finger. Mana then points to the base, giving her lower back a slight push. "Sigh… Until tomorrow, Shirogane."

"Yeah, later," he waves, sighing.

As Mitsurugi leaves, he again sits on the rubble by the door. Looking at the stars, at the moon, the cold gale that runs circles around his arms and legs. And those eyes that do the same.

"…You're not leaving?"

"In due time, I will. May I ask why did you come to this place, Shirogane?" she asks, looking at the house.

"…No reason," he looks up, scratching the back of his head. "Just felt like a nice place to pass the time and look at the stars."

"Hmm. You had said that you were from this area before, correct? Does this neighborhood spark anything?" she asks, taking a step closer.

Gazing at her, into her eyes, for a few sustained seconds has him sighing, smiling a bit. "…Maybe, who knows."

"…Would you truly not be willing to tell me the name, or at least the rank of the fellow who gifted you the blade?" he shakes a no. "Sigh… Your status as a 'dead man' will certainly make your case harder to defend, and questions are bound to come up. I advise you to search for your profile. There may still be people alive who knew you before… whatever happened to you and your profiles."

"Yeah, I guess. Thanks for the tip." Not like it matters, this world's me died defending Sumika from BETA. Ain't no way I can actually walk away with coming back to life after being MIA during the Invasion.

"…In any case, we shall be seeing each other. Best of luck in your trials, and with your own oath. I'd suggest meditation before departing for the CCSE, Meiya-sama will certainly aid you if you ask."

"Thanks but there's no monk that can cure my nightmares."

"Pardon?"

"It's, you know, complicated. I don't know, just… there's so much I want to do, and yet I'll basically have to part ways with the sword… Heheh… Heheha."

"What is so funny?"

"Nothing, really. Just laughing at myself." No way Meiya won't grow suspicious of me, and if the IRG comes asking for my identity I'm toast. I should be worried about that, and yet losing the Minaru Kamui scares me more. A coward to the very end, huh… "Perhaps the human heart is a mystery to me now. But in my hometown, the flowers yet smell of the years gone by."

"…Excuse me?"

"Just as I said. I'm gonna miss the perfume more than anything else… Siiigh," standing, waving her way, Shirogane files towards the base. "See you later, Tsukuyomi-san. Hope you don't come for my neck next time."

Standing still, a hand slowly opens before closing again, simply nodding back. Waiting until he is out of sight to undo the stoic posture from its very seams. Waiting and watching the ruined house with bated breath.

"I, too, hope it does not come to that. Let us pray that there is an answer to your predicament, and that it appears before others take notice of your presence, and the blade's."

---

Around the same time

Near Tokyo Castle

---

Slowly lifting an end of a page, rereading carefully, a whistle zooms out in the otherwise empty office, a gentle rocking on a large, directorial chair.

"This is a most welcome surprise," a small smile greets when relaxing further onto the ample cushion, resting the papers and nodding. "Unexpected but not entirely unwelcomed. What says our common lord?"

"It seems he said the same thing when informed of this matter, according to Yoroi," the fellow tells, still standing in attention as a pillar right on the end of the desk. "Clear it is he's growing suspicious, yet the opportunity this begets is too tantalizing not to chase after."

"Haha, I see. Great minds think alike," a hearty laugh leaves, but the fellow remains as silent and apathetic as the night. With blank warmth the smile raises, almost bored. "However, this is truly a most unexpected surprise. Not even in my boldest dreams could I have thought her able to convince them of this. I wonder why…"

"…Some pointers might have been shared to ease the presentation. Nothing but some passing comments when sharing tea, milord."

"I see. Well done, your watchful service is appreciated," revealing fangs the whisper says, and now they do share the smile in equal kindling.

"No compliments are necessary, I am only following your commands. On that regard," straightening again in marshal posture, a step back into a bow is given, "how should we deliver the news?"

"Hmm… If you're asking it equals you do not wish to be the deliverer, correct?"

"Indeed. May I suggest to take some distance from the matter? Our presence is not exactly welcomed by her guardian. Let it be him the one to give the report, in the end our goal has been accomplished."

"…Has it, though?" a slow sliver slithers closer, to the desk, to the eyes, to lunge with the still-revealed fangs glistening to the moonlit shower.

Immutable, the bow is expanded. "Yes, milord. Neither side can refuse such a proposal, as we wouldn't. And the fox has her hands tied on this matter. All support she now possesses will fade faster than a candle's flame in front of a typhoon if silence is all she forwards for the next months."

"Yes, I am aware… I am simply wondering if we'll reap the spoils. I assume, the incident marked her greatly. Scars are surely still ingrained."

"Of course. However, if all proceeds as we believe, no matter the result we attain our goal. If Kouzuki fails, the young lady will have no further routes but to accept my petition. If somehow the fox reverses her situation, our projects may be what brings victory in battle," slowly raising, yet another step back is taken as eyes slowly veil themselves. "Say the word, however, and I shall revise my approach, milord."

"No, no, you've made compelling points. And in any case, we should not let the opportunity stagnate over some trivialities, yes," the smile dulls, all cards folded inwards, veering the chair to look at the window, outside. "Still, I'll have to thank her in person for the marvelous effort. What could I reward her with, however? Some fruits, a bottle of sake perhaps?"

"A letter of recognition to her late father, mayhaps?"

"A fruit basket with some sake, that should be most appropriate as a show of thankfulness! Do you happen to know if she favors any fruit in particular?" the shrugging smile disregards the cold glare, giggling at the tightening posture.

"Pears, it seems."

"Perfectly perfect, then. Now, onto the other matter… Did our king accept the trade?"

"According to Yoroi, yes," wrangled gloves soften, a nod is given. "The 1C units should be arriving shortly, your petition is already in the pipeline."

"Hmm… And you believe his account?"

"No, milord. May I suggest us to prod the files? There are other folders stuck at the moment, and with the debates over and done with I could focus on this, if you'd allow it," another bow is given, an eye remains gazing at the above desk, smiling upon the almost instant dismissal.

"Fine, act as you see fit. Makabe is at the ready if you require support, do not attempt this by yourself," the order quietly said, a small salute is returned. "Of course, the UN should keep their end of the deal and leave that squad as mere cadets but we've already secured that vantage point," The last thing we need is the hostages getting deployed. I can only imagine the amount of political fuckery that would cause. It would be hilarious to see, I admit.

"Actually, sir, about that…" a small gulp, a stare down, the symmetry of the posture broken like the dwindling moon up outside, "I have one more matter to inform you of."

For her of all people to hesitate so… "What would it be about? Kouzuki is meddling on the arrangements?"

"No, nothing of the sort. It's only, there's a new member in Squad 207," she says, compacting arms onto the dress.

On the opposite end the looseness knows no end. "…Merely that? I don't see how that deserves my attention if our plan is still in effect."

"On a passing glance, it would seem so. However, I took the time to research the background of the new trainee and, well…" a sigh is followed by a step forward, a whisper slow yet sharp, "All data about him is hidden behind the highest lock in the UN, and his public profiles are also locked."

"What… did you say? You must be jesting, surely."

"I speak no lies to you, my lord. Confirming my report would be child's play for you, if desired?"

"…So this cadet, what's his name and grace?"

"That is the question, milord," unusual cracks surface, arms are folded, hair toyed with. "The origin of the cadet is a mystery. According to our intel, and I did check, no vehicle that could transport him to the base breached the perimeter. There are no records anywhere of how this person arrived to Yokohama."

"…What? None at all?" the venom slithers forward, revealing fangs, quickly swallowed upon the immediate nod. "And it isn't someone already enlisted in the ranks, otherwise we'd have intel… Does he appear in the UN's banks?"

"Not on my searches when I learned of this, no."

"…Hmm," eyes close, a slow rocking begins on the chair to the tick of the clock. Tocks, it rocks, ticks, tickles, yet the expression only constricts, wading through thoughts. "Let us begin to narrow our search then. Is it a foreigner?"

A no is shaken fast, eyes fall down to the dare. "No, the man in question is Japanese. His name is Shirogane Takeshi, presumably of age twenty going by the picture in the otherwise blank profile."

"Shirogane… Shirogane… I recall no commendable recruits from other factions with that surname. Do you know of anything on his standing?"

"That it seems the fox herself requested his transfer. I am still waiting on reports from our contacts in Yokohama."

"I see… Someone Kouzuki would know of, where and how in such short notice to request with ease as well… Was there someone in the Blue Flag with that name?"

"Not as far as I'm aware, but I suppose Takamura will confirm or deny this matter if everything goes smoothly. All it'd take is a simple query."

"Hmm, acceptable. Does the common king know of this pawn?"

"Yes… According to Yoroi, he was not amused. It is possible that oaf might be thinking of removing the cadet off the equation," she admits, pacing back, looking out the window, arms folded tighter.

The sway in the chair remains undisturbed, playing with the reports. "Should we restrain the sword, hmm… Realistically speaking, a mere cadet is of no consequence. And if this is a move from Kouzuki, getting into her ill graces serves no purpose. Hmm, yes, let us pass a whisper to Sakaki. Could you warn him that we'll… hmm, how to say it? I'd like the warning to not be overly harsh, any suggestions?"

"Ahem… Stay your hand or Chop-kun's wings will be clipped. If I recall, his little one is quite the fan of the character."

"Oh, yes, true! I still recall the appalling look he gave when we saw he had one said plushie on his desk," a hearty laugh waddles out, before grabbing a small pin, throwing it at the maps and alliances in the wall, at the Prime Minister's picture. "Yet the wording is quite drastic, no?"

"Strike the weakness when least expected, it'll be enough of a deterrent. Also, it will call to attention the cadet's position, it will make Sakaki doubt and be suspicious of our intent. Thus, we would gain other means with which to confirm the incognito's importance in the base," she says, low, grabbing one of the pins, throwing it at the board close by with too much oomph.

"Hehe, I certainly do like when your eyes spark in that way… Send the message immediately, let us not take any risks on this."

"…At this hour?" the nod and smile of poison causes fingers to rub the temple. "You are quite the slave-driver, milord."

"That may be, but I cannot truly be one if my servants are still willing to follow through their commands this late into the night. It would seem dogs favor working with the moonlight," a slow chuckle along interlocked fingers remains locked on the fellow, growing slightly upon the step back, the recoiling.

"…Was that a slight against my performance?"

"Oh, no, by the Holy Emperor. It is merely an observation. That being said," all luster is lost, leaning back away from the moonlight, into a wider smirk as both hands tighten further, choking all air out, "I would welcome you two to start working in unison. I like my dogs together in the pack, you see."

"…By your will, milord. I shall see to it."

"Good. I won't ask for immediate improvement, but I'd like to see progress made."

"Understood. Will that be all you require of me?"

"No, could you also arrange a meeting with little Takamura? I want to thank her personally for the efforts before she departs, once the news have been delivered."

"Sigh… Roger."

"Hmm. See, dogs do favor working late along the moonlight, don't they, eh?" a small smile smothers while straightening the papers, returning them to the folders and handing them back.

"I shan't dispute the fact, Ikaruga-sama. I do indeed favor the shadows, that is true," accepting the folders and neatly placing them under an arm, a salute and a tiny smirk is returned. The verbal viper too. "However, kindly stop pulling the leash. I've other matters to tend to early in the morning as well."

"…Very well, you do have a point. I leave the arrangements to your more than capable hands then, my fellow. Dismissed."

"By your will, Ikaruga-sama, milord," slowly bowing, enough to make sharp hair cascade down shoulders, in equal grace is the departure taken.

And slowly rocking on the chair while taking sips of air he remains, gently listening to the tick and tocks, the wisps of wind outside the window.

"It is all falling into place, perfectly perfect as I thought. Curious it is Kouzuki brought a pawn to her hand, but no card could ever hope to overturn my play. Just like in my dreams… Only slightly longer… Everything is already in place…"

And so, slowly, carefully, the sways continue along the gradual slide of the moonlight over more than half of the floor. Yet eyes snap open, the waddling halts, Ikaruga stands and goes to a nearby shelf, almost blasting it open. From it he cradles out a small package of cold, welcoming color. Soft is the design of the case and far more enticing the scent its inner delicacies offer. However, it only makes his stomach turn in reverse and a dry chuckle to leave a desert for eyes.

"What a blunder, to have forgotten to hand her this… The talk of the cadet sidetracked me enough, sigh. I certainly hope she doesn't mind me pulling the leash one last time tonight," and were that to be the case, the adusted repining would be delectable to see, hmm. Ah, although, if I do not restrain myself she might think it is but another test. Should I leave this for tomorrow, then? Hmm, but it would be hilarious to see her spark away again, and I'd like to move this piece right now… but it is late for another scolding, to say nothing on Makabe finding out as well if he returns soon… Siiigh. "I suppose, it is advisable to withstand some barking every once in a while. Nothing ventured, nothing gained."

---

A/N: First things first, I stopped procrastinating on uploading my shit to AO3 so if I ever stop sharing here or the site crashes you know where to find me.

Second, there's one thing I'm curious about. Do you guys listen to the music I recommend? Wondering going forward since in AO3 you can just click on the links, but if it's just clutter to most I don't mind cutting that down.

This chapter was mostly setup and splicing, intended to be the ending half of the prior one until I realized the talk with Meiya and Mana was getting a bit overlong. Next up is a transition chapter and the start of the CCSE, I hope. Kinda realized that if I try and keep things short I'll just take forever anyways.

Also, sorry for the silly jokes. Writing oblivious Meiya is too fun and I may have dragged on some jokes.

Thanks for reading. Keep staying safe.

Zuoriel