Authors Thought:
Hello, here we are with a new chapter that I'm very excited to release as will be once more exploring different characters, intense situations, and some more surprises.
Keeping it short as a lot to get through, but as always, I'm extremely grateful for you stopping by, enjoy the rest of your weekend with your family and friends, be well and be safe.
We will meet again, soon...
The halls of Wolverton Academy were silent at the moment, no more would the happy voices of students play around them, as the girls went about their day of education and tankery. No longer would these young girls boast of their Sensha-do team, their training, and the general commeradiary that came with being part of a close-knit team. Even if they had never competed in a Sensha-do match, save the big four of who had fought for their academy in the match against Chi-Ha-Tan, the rest had trained hard for the day to go into action together as a team.
That wouldn't be happening soon or ever now, as Wolverton was shutting down, due to their largest backer in Chiyo Shimada having withdrawn her funding of their club. No one could blame her, after Fukushu Nishizumi had caused an international scandal when she punch her half-sister Miho Nishizumi during the match, not to mention the fact that the punch was thrown after the younger girl was saved from the river which only added to the momentous offense.
Now without the biggest source of funding and not to mention a given provider of their tanks, has left Wolverton with few alternatives but to begin the gut-wrenching process of shutting down their school. It was hard on the girls who all dream of doing tankery for their nation against Japan's best, but now they would be going back to their families, back to normal high school, and nothing felt right about it.
That feeling of things not being right, was hitting the very director for Wolverton Girls Academy, in Johnson Fitzgerald, a decorated veteran who had fought in the Gulf War. He had always had a love for tanks as a child, while his own father had served in WW2 as a tank commander in the famous 761st "Black Panther" tank battalion, to which Johnson took great pride in.
Pride was also what he had felt for his academy, for the chance to bring Sensha-do to America. It had been something that had been played around with for years, but with the strict nature of the United States sports program that prohibited violence being encouraged in its youth, made tankery a touchy subject. Even with the advancements of Carbon Lining and AP Shells being manufactured to be safe and not actually penetrate a tank, there was no budging.
The other problem was the strict nature of Sensha-do being a girl-only sport. While Japan had practiced the sport for fifty years, being a center of their society at this point, to enhance their women with skills and character growth that would help them in the real world. It also gave these young girls and women some stardom, as they were celebrated by men and women alike, and inspired many young girls to join in the future.
Yet America had no tolerance policy when it came to gender discrimination in some sports. Knowing without a doubt that there be a lot of boys who would want to join in if the sport came to their country, which would lead to legal actions taking place to make the sport available to everyone. Not that there was a problem with that, yet part of Johnson that was drawn to Sensha-do was because it was an all-girl sport.
Sure if boys participated in the sport, that seem normal, as there was no end of love for tanks for the male youth. Yet having girls fight it out was something abnormal, while also the team building for crews was something not seen in other sports. Needing everyone to perform at a high level, even if your job was a loader or bow gunner, you were important to your other tankery sisters.
Yet none of that really matter now to Johnson as he walk to his office. Their academy was being shut down and the girls going home. He was still waiting for his daughter Jasmine and the rest of the team as well to come home, though they be short two members, being Fukushu and their instructor Konomi. The former was left behind for discipline reasons, and the latter was staying behind to talk to the federation director while telling Johnson she had other business to attend to in Japan.
Another missing member from his staff was also Linda Sickle, the former commander of Saunders and their Vice instructor had left for Japan as well. What she was planning to do there was beyond Johnson, since most of the other members were coming home. Though he had an inkling the young women was going to have a word with Fukushu, even if the two were at each other's throats most of the time, they had formed a mutual bond somewhere as they learn from one another, a most unlikely of friendships Johnson guessed.
"I wonder what I'll do now," Johnson said quietly to himself, as he finally reach his door to his office.
Grabbing the doorknob, he opened it and step in. He was greeted to his well-organized office, with a large mahogany desk near the back, with a large window looking out to hangers that house the remnant of the Wolverton tanks, mostly M4 Shermans, with one Sherman Jumbo, and the odd Panther tank that had been a gift from Chiyo Shimada for practice only since Wolverton only wanted to use American tanks. Though now all of them were going to be sold or scrap since there was no need to hold onto them.
Though what surprised him was someone was in his office. A man dressed in a green US Army uniform, that was press and neat, decorated with medals on the left breast of his officer's jacket. He was of Caucasian descent, with thinning gray hair that had been neatly buzz cut, he was also quite tall, with blue eyes.
The same eye's as his daughter.
"Mister Cunningham, a surprise visit for sure," Johnson said, then brought his hand up to salute his old friend.
Taylor Cunningham simply turn in his friend's direction and then saluted as well. "Sorry, meant to call you, but figure a surprise would brighten you up."
"I'm the sole practitioner in positivity, even with what happened," Johnson said coming over to Taylor, who had been staring at the shelf that held pictures of Johnson's family and army days.
Turning back to the pictures, Taylor eye them over again, coming to stop at the picture of Johnson's family, including his father Bradley Fitzgerald of the 761st tank battalion. The older gentleman was holding Johnson's daughter Jasmine, who was only a small child at that time, but had a bright smile on her face, while she wore her grandfather's tankery helmet that was too large for her, with Johnson and his late wife standing around them equally happy this day.
"Jasmine is a tanker just like her granddaughter and you, runs in the family," Taylor commented, smiling at the picture.
"Yes, though fortunately she was allowed to be a tanker in a sport and not a real war, don't think I could handle seeing her off to fight in a real one," Johnson said, grateful that was the case.
A nod of understanding came from Taylor. "Yes, let's be glad both our daughters never have to do that. While they can just have fun fighting in tanks, makes me jealous, if this sort of sport had been made available to us, I would've been the first to sign up."
"You and me both, would have loved to fight in M4 Sherman, make my old man proud. Glad my daughter can at least do it," Johnson said, wearing a proud smile on his face.
"Your telling me, watching my Ellie, who's been so shy since all her life, yet put her in a tank and I've seen her grow so incredibly strong in these past couple of months. With that match against Chi-Ha-Tan…I tell you…I never cheer so loud in my life…really takes your breath away that our daughters fought so well against one of Japan's best team, ironically its against Japanese tanks that I never gave a second thought to," Taylor said, with a proud look on his face.
"Well, glad we enjoyed it while we did. I'm sure you know Miss Shiamda has withdrawn her funding of our school," Johnson said with a shake of the head.
Taylor nodded at this. "I knew she would, yet you can't blame her. Having the whole world see Fukushu punch that Chi-Ha-Tan commander was too much. I got the translation of what she said in Japanese, did you know about her hatred for her family?"
"I did, as well as Konomi's own dark path with the family. Even though I no way condone Fukushu's actions, yet the dark history of the Nishizumi family is enough to make me understand their hatred at least," Johnson said sadly.
For a moment, Taylor wanted to press on what dark path his old army buddy was talking about, yet forgo this, knowing he was going to do something to bring Johnson back up.
"How long before the academy shuts down entirely?" Taylor ask.
"A week at most, a lot of the girls I've already sent back to their families. It wasn't an easy thing to ask them to do, with many arguing that they wanted to stay here," Johnson replied, feeling his heart squeeze thinking over the talented girls he was losing from his academy.
"It's the right choice, no point delaying inevitable, I'm truly sorry all your hard work is being undone," Taylor said, while reaching out to grip his friends shoulder in a show of support.
Johnson nodded at his army pal, while showing a warm smile on his face. "It's a part of life. Just because we got one little setback, doesn't mean we don't get up and try again."
"Always an optimist, glad things don't change with you," Taylor said with a chuckle, glad to see his friend was still in good spirits even with everything that happen.
"Was my middle name practically growing up. I will try again to get America to accept Sensha-do one day," Johnson said resolutely.
Though his friend made a proud boast, Taylor was about to reveal something that was going to sour the mood even more than he wanted to, as Taylor spoke. "Well, you don't have to worry about America accepting Sensha-do."
"What do you mean?" Johnson ask with a raised eyebrow.
"As you know, I got a lot of buddies in the army still, who been keeping an ear to the ground for me. It seems another academy for Sensha-do is being built up," Taylor reveal.
That was a shock for Johnson, who had been so sure his academy was the only one who had been built up, then recover from his shock to speak. "If it's your army buddies hearing of this, that means it's someone from the Armor Corps heading this project."
A nod follow the statement from Taylor, then spoke to drop the next bombshell. "Alexander King ring a bell?"
"That son of a bitch," Johnson said suddenly, then compose himself. "Sorry, didn't mean lose composure like that."
"Don't apologize, after what happened in the Gulf war between you two, you have every right to be angry," Taylor said.
"He got a lot good men kill for nothing. It must give him sort of sick thrill to raise an academy while mine falls apart," Johnson said still heated.
"The worst part is, I've heard Miss Shimada is supporting him as well," Taylor announced, laying more bad news on his friend.
"What? Why would she support him with money?" Johnson ask.
Taylor simply shrug. "Can't rightly say, it's only a rumor my Army buddies inform me of. Though I think she isn't giving him money, just good instructors to help his recruits along. Not to mention he has Susan Marshall as the head instructor of his school."
"The legendary American tank commander who fought for Saunders?" Johnson said in astonishment.
"The very one, though it makes sense since the academy is being set up in Texas her own home state, which has to be awesome in her mind to lead the only American team into the Japan Sensha-do league next year," Taylor confirmed.
"Unbelievable," Johnson said, feeling like someone had dropped a ton of bricks on his mental state, unable to bear any more hammering.
Though Taylor wasn't done with dropping more news. "They're also saying Susan will be trying to recruit many of your girls to her academy, especially the big three in my Ellie, Morena, and your daughter Jasmine."
"Jasmine, why would she join another academy?" Johnson said in flummox tone.
"I'm sure she is going to talk to you about it when she arrives home. I think it's the best conversation to have face to face," Taylor said.
"I understand," Johnson said, as her couldn't fault his own daughter wanting to join another Sensha-do Academy, though he didn't want her joining the very one his rival was building up at any cost. Though it hurt just as much to lose Morena and Ellie as well, since they had proven to be such capable tankers, while also he had grown attached to them. They were leaders, but now they might fight under a different flag if they chose to join this new American tankery school which only help them along with such veterans in their ranks.
"What about your daughter? Is she going to join Susan's new academy in Texas?" Johnson had to ask.
"I don't know, she was the one who called me to tell me that a representative of this Texas academy was waiting on board the cargo ship bringing them home, talking to the girls about joining the academy. She is on the fence, since she wants to compete still, but doesn't feel right about how her teammates are completely done with Fukushu," Taylor said.
"You can't blame them for how they feel, Fukushu did a lot of damage with just one punch, not just for our academy, but also our nation. Yet I should have done more to understand her pain, but I just brush it off as her and Konomi getting their just deserves," Johnson said rubbing at his beard in frustration.
Taylor agreed. "Well, not much we can do now about that, but I do have a reason I'm here old friend other than giving bad news, that will definitely bring your spirits up."
"That being?" Johnson ask.
Taylor simply nodded to the door, to which Johnson turn to. It open now with an older gentleman walking in. He was of Japanese descent, around his late 60's with his hair shaved down to a buzz cut that was white as snow. Dress in a rich green suit, with an emblem sewn just below the right breast pocket. Johnson focused in on the badge, then it hit him that it was the badge of Saunders High University School itself on it.
"Good evening Mister Johnson, my name is Ritsushima Masanobu, Headmaster of Saunders High," the man introduce himself in near-perfect English, then bow.
This was followed by both Johnson and Taylor, even as Americans, not forget Japanese etiquette and bow back in respect.
Johnson spoke first. "We are honored to have you here Mister Masanobu. Your English is quite good."
"Not as honor as I am. While it's a must to know English, especially when we have many talented recruits from America itself. After finding out about this academy after the announcement that they be fighting in the match against Chi-Ha-Tan, I decided to do some digging. My contacts put me in touch with Mister Taylor here, so that I may come to meet you, Mister Johnson," Masanobu explain with a warm smile.
"Why me?" Johnson had to question.
"Well, for one, to congratulate you on your fine girl's performance in the match, they put on quite the show if I say so myself," Masanobu said.
Johnson nodded in gratitude. "Thank you for saying so, though I am remiss not to mention the poor actions of one of my students in the end. For that, I apologize, though I should be saying this to the poor girl who was punched."
"All in good time, Mister Johnson," Masanobu said with a wave of the hand.
"If I might be bold in asking, you didn't simply come here to congratulate my student's abilities," Johnson said with a questioning look.
A small chuckle left Masanobu's lips. "Of course. As you can see, I'm getting quite old and the strains of running a carrier school have taken their toll on me. I'm stepping down as Headmaster this year, but I need a worthy successor to take my place."
A few moments passed as Johnson processed the information, then it hit him. "Wait, you don't mean me?"
"Come on Johnson, does Mister Masanobu need to spell it out for you," Taylor said with a chuckle.
"But still…I'm honored for sure. Can the Japanese Federation approve of this?" Johnson ask.
Masanobu just shook his head. "Contrary to belief, the carrier system is run through MEXT and any dealing we make for the carrier runs through their branch. Our boss has approved of my appointment, all we need is your signature."
"I don't know what to say," Johnson said baffled by all this information.
"Not unexpected, we can also bring all your tanks as well. That way your rival Alexander King doesn't get his hands on them," Masanobu said with a small smile.
"Mmm, if we do. Can ask for a favor from you?" Johnson said.
Masanobu nodded. "Sure, what can I do?"
"I need to send a gift to Chi-Ha-Tan, for their commander. I also ask that Konomi be made into a head instructor for the team, while can I bring any girls along to the team from my academy?" Johnson ask.
"I see no problems as my current Sensha-do commander Kay has already been gifting I see no harm in one more, but I can only take on top four students, besides Fukushu. I'm sorry, but after what she has done, I can't possibly take on that student, as the media backlash be too much for us. I'm sorry, but I have my limits," Masanobu said, bowing his head in apology.
"I understand, but without Fukushu, Konomi won't join for sure. Yet I'll see if we can work something out, I look forward to working with you," Johnson said, with a bow.
"As I look forward to seeing our carrier be the bridge between our two nations," Masanobu said with a bow.
"See, told you I have something to bring your spirits back up," Taylor said with a please smirk.
Johnson turn to his old friend. "You always do. I owe you."
"I'll take a good beer, Mister Masanobu would you like to join us for a drink," Taylor said.
"I would be honor gentlemen," Masanobu said, then the trio left the room, with a bright future being formed.
Yet as the trio of men walk out of the office, Masanobu let a thought cross his mind.
Miss Shimada is quite the woman, playing this game of chess and were nothing but her pieces to move on the board. Yet this will help Sensha-do along for the future and I can finally rest easy in my final days, but I have to wonder…
What is Miss Shimada's end goal in all this?...
Maybe that's a question best left unanswered…
XxxxX
The bustling metropolis of Japan's capital city of Tokyo was in full swing as its exuberant residents were out on the streets walking from place to place. Going for drinks that quench their thirst on these warmer days, others shopping for clothes or heading the local entertainment zones for arcades or small fairs.
Yet while the people were moving with a purpose, others were just sitting under the shade of trees in the local parks, letting this pleasant day wash over them as they talk and laugh with friends and family alike. For this was the usual day for the people of Tokyo, who love their city and all it provided to them, whether as adults or children, the young or the old, it saw to all needs.
Yet, one young girl couldn't partake in this enjoyment, as she sat outside a café across the street from her goal. Dress in a light gray jacket, with her hood up and a mask to cover her face, which made some passerby's look at her strangely, since the girl had to be sweltering in the jacket she wore, not to mention the mask. Some thought she was sick, so they gave her a wide berth as not to catch whatever she might be carrying.
Though this was done in mind to in fact keep people away, so they wouldn't see who really was under this disguise.
Aozora was right, this was a pretty good idea to keep my identity a secret, especially in Tokyo
Miho thought, having to fan herself a little, as the heat of the day was getting to her even in the light jacket. Though she was glad she was given light green shorts to wear, giving her some respite with her converse on.
A day had passed since they had arrived in Tokyo, which was only a short drive from Nashiro. Yet Miho had made no move to try and see her sister right away, due to wanting to get a feel of how the situation was around the hospital Maho was being held at, being Tokyo University hospital itself. Aozora had already scoped the place out a bit, which prove Miho's worst fears about what they were to face. As the hospital was surrounded by the press, who were eager to talk to Maho about her condition, possible Federation punishment that was coming, and if her mother force her to fight in the tournament knowing she was sick.
Each time Miho heard it on the news or a passerby, her heart clenched. As they were talking so bad about her mother, thinking she was a demon who care little for her daughters. Maybe it could be construed to look like that from the common person's perspective, but for Miho, she knew how kind her mother could be, even if that was a decade ago. Not to mention that Miho couldn't believe her mother would simply be alright with Maho almost dying….then again….
You cannot achieve grand victory, without sacrifice
That small sentence rang through Miho's mind. Something her mother had said to her after the loss to Pravda when she came home. Shiho chastise her for abandoning her tank and going to save Koume and her crew. Miho had tried to argue, but Shiho's disappointing eyes, while along with Maho sitting by her mother and was equally giving her a piercing look all but broke Miho's spirit. At that moment, she was done with Sensha-do, done with her mother's expectation, and even worse she was angry with her sister for not standing up for her.
Eventually, that anger subsided to fear, because she didn't know what she was going to do. Till of all people, Maho extended her hand to her, helping her up and sending her to Chi-Ha-Tan Academy. Now she was on a path that in turn save her very soul, as now it was surrounded by the warmth of so many girls from Chi-Ha-Tan who brought Miho back up, that now it was Miho's turn to extend a hand to her older sister, but how to do that, Miho didn't know.
"Hey you," someone said.
Quickly Miho turn to find Aozora's violet eyes looking down at her wearing simple blue jeans that hug her supple frame with a light green shirt, with a bright smile, making Miho feel instantly better. In the older women's hands was a Boba tea, which made Miho smile under mask eager to have one.
"Alright, you get to pick. A honey milk tea or a honey green tea, both have Boba in them," Aozora said.
"I'll take the honey green one," Miho said eagerly.
Making Aozora nod happily, then hand her that one, while taking a seat on the bench beside Miho. Then the two took some tentative sips, with the sweet taste making them squeal a little in delight of the delicious drink. Making them chuckle together at their reactions, as they slowly turn to watch the people walk the streets and cars drive past them.
"Well, this would be a nice little outing for us, if we weren't going mission impossible," Aozora said with a sigh, crossing her legs while taking a long sip.
"Heh, you're not wrong. Didn't think every news outlet would be surrounding the hospital. Thiers almost no way for us to get in without suspicion," Miho said with a matching sigh.
Aozora nodded. "Well, what can you say? Bunch of vultures that just want to get the scoop of their careers, sickening really."
"I can only imagine how Maho is doing with all this. She's all alone in there, without me or my mom," Miho said, her face lowering a bit in sadness.
To which Aozora didn't let last long, as she wrapped an arm around Miho's shoulder and drew her close. "Well, that's going to make this reunion so much sweeter. We've only been here a couple of days, so let's not give in so quickly."
"Yea, but we can't linger too much longer. My mother lives far away from Tokyo, so we need to find a way in today or tomorrow," Miho said, leaning into Aozora's side for strength.
"Got any idea's commander?" Aozora ask.
Touch a hand to her chin, Miho began to think things over. "Maybe sneaking in late at night is our best approach."
"That's easier said than done, especially when you look at the security. Is there another option?" Aozora said.
"Well," Miho began to say, though grimace under her mask about what she had in mind. "I could just reveal myself. As Maho's sister, I have a right to see her."
"Absolutely not," Aozora said quickly. "The reporters be all over you before we could blink. While even then they might not let you see Maho if she is under questioning and might just send you back to the carrier no less."
"Then sneaking in will be our best option. You'll fake being sick to get admission, then will work up the levels till we get to Maho," Miho said.
"Ugh, this is by far your most reckless plan yet, but alright. Let's head back to the motel to rest up before we try this grand adventure of yours," Aozora said with an amused shake of the head.
Miho nodded, but there was still self-doubt in her mind. Like maybe she hadn't thought this whole thing through and acted impulsively getting here. Yet, no matter the case she had to see this through if even for a moment alone with Maho, to get the answers she needed, while making sure her big sister was ok.
The two of them rose from the bench and started to walk back down the lively streets, making sure to keep close. Aozora played lookout, scanning for any danger to Miho, since news outlets she had watched had been saying that they were desperate to hear anything from the younger Nishizumi sister about all that had happened with her family. Which made being in Tokyo itself seem like they were in the heart of the enemy territory.
Which in turn made Aozora, Miho's only source of protection, only add to the older women's worries. Yet all Aozora could do was press on and hope things could work out, since they couldn't spend too much time here as the 63rd National tournament was pressing on and soon enough the match with Pravda would arrive and Chi-Ha-Tan could not go into battle without their tigress leading them.
The two soon found the alleyway they could use for a shortcut back to the small hotel they were staying at. It got them off the swarming street to a deserted alleyway, with either side dwarfed by large buildings. A couple of vending machines were lined against the wall, with a bike rack that was filled up, as they were the easiest way to travel in the city than a car at times.
Quickly walking down this alleyway, Aozora made sure Miho stay close, as the alley seem to go on forever. Then they came by another vending machine selling drinks, with a man trying to buy said drinks from the machine. He was dressed in a tan trench coat with a black fedora on his head, making him look oddly out of place unless he was some sort of detective out on a case, but with his back to the girls, Aozora couldn't see his face. Again, she made sure Miho stay close while keeping her wits about her as they were just walking by the man.
"I wonder…did you think that disguise is really going to fool anyone?" the trench coat dress man said, his back still to the girls passing him by.
Which made Aozora stop immediately, while turning in the man's direction, while keeping Miho behind her, who was gripping the back of Aozora's shirt in both hands fearfully.
"I'm sorry sir, did you need something?" Aozora ask, playing off what was said earlier.
"I said, did you think that disguise is really going to fool anyone?" he said again.
"This is my kid sister who is sick, not that is any of your business. Will be on our way," Aozora said, while starting to pull away, with Miho close to her.
The man now turn to look at the two of them fully. His face was weather-beaten, with deep bags under his brown eyes, with a stubble starting to show. Though his face was haggard, he wore extreme excitement all over his face, which only added to Aozora's concerns at the moment, but she kept her defensive stance. Yet there was definite anxiety, as this man knew about Miho, meaning they had been followed somehow from Nashiro, making their mission to see Miho's sister that much harder.
"Look, drop the act. I saw you both leave Nashiro at six in the morning the day before on a bike," the man challenged.
"You a creep or something? I know I'm good-looking and all, but this borders on dangerous grounds to be following an underage girl around," Aozora shot back, hoping to make him back down.
The man just smile, while taking his fedora off to reveal short greasy messy black hair underneath. "Well, I have to say it is an honor to be in the presence of the beautiful Aozora Suzume, The Tigress Corps flying ace."
"Comes with being part of the best team in Sensha-do, biased claim and all," Aozora said, with a hint of nervousness.
Which made the man nod with a sly smile. "Yes, thee Miss Suzume…the very one who doesn't have a single sibling to call her own, an only child. Daughter of the late Eto Suzume, who was quite the pilot I hear, like father, like daughter."
Aozora made a tsk sound, having made a bad lie, even more surprised this man knew so much of her, since the profiles of the women of the 54th Wing Division for the tournament didn't go into too much detail of their private life, which meant this man had done his homework and was on to them. Leaving Aozora with few options to get out, without having to use some drastic measures.
Yet, she remain cool on the surface. "So you know who I am, congratulations doesn't mean you get a date with me."
"As much as I would love that, I have a date with destiny already," the man said.
"Before that date, how about you tell me who you are?" Aozora said.
The man simply shrug. "I could, but I rather keep that under wraps till I make it big with this story I'm about to reveal to the public. I'm here to get what I need, so I'll have you step away from Miss Nishizumi, so she can answer some of my questions."
"Who's to say who this is?" Aozora feign ignorance, as Miho gripped the back of her shirt tighter, telling of her fright.
"My gut says who," the man said, but then took a different approach. "I mean, we should get her side of the story. About all the atrocities her mother might have done to her…my thinking it's beatings if she ever step out of line of the Nishizumi style."
That statement made Miho begin to shake, making Aozora instantly realize what the man was doing.
"That's very disrespectful of you. Thiers no proof of any of that happening," Aozora fought back.
"Oh, then why not ask the source?" The man said, gesturing to Miho who still was playing off not being Miho.
"This is pointless, you're wasting my time. I'm leaving and theirs nothing you can do about it," Aozora said, turning to walk away, while keeping Miho close to her, wanting desperately to get away before anything else happen.
The man watch them walk off, but didn't let them get far before he spoke again. "Well, Miss Nishizumi? How about it? Why not vent all of your frustrations about your terrible mother? Did she beat you to make sure you kept with traditions? Was she angry with you because you didn't sacrifice those girls in last year's tournament for the sake of winning? That why she threw you out of your home? Because your mother is a horrid demon who thinks of nothing but victory?"
Questions upon questions, that burn into Miho's mind. Trying her best to ignore them, but it became too much in her mind, as she began to crack under them. Because, as of late, all Miho could picture was her mother suffering. The dream from the night in the Akagi Hospital of her mother calling on Miho to save her was nagging at her more and more, with it beating against her mind constantly, leaving her in a fragile state of any ill talk of her mother.
With this very moment being her breaking point.
Turning around, with her hood and mask up still, Miho with her fists clenched at her side spoke. "My mother is not a monster! She is nothing like you say! You've never seen who she really is!"
Dammit, the bastard was goading her into saying something
Aozora thought, her face contorting into agitation, as she turn her head to the man, who was smiling like a fool.
"Well now, Miho Nishizumi. Glad to see the fire in you and how easy it was to get you to speak, now how about you answer some of my questions?" the man said, pulling out a pen and notepad from one of his trench coat pockets.
"How about I break your head in?" Aozora growled, stepping once more in front of Miho.
"Ugh, you're really getting on my nerves," the man said with a sigh, then put his notepad away.
"Don't care, you don't get to ask any more questions, alright? Just get out of here before I pummel your face in for insulting my tankery sister's family," Aozora threaten, coming closer to the man.
Yet, the man didn't seem perturbed by any of the hostile posturings by Aozora, as he simply kept his smile and his composure.
"You know, family is good for protecting one another. Yet family can be also our achillies heel," the man said with one of his hands remaining in his pockets.
"Sounds like someone who's never enjoyed a family life," Aozora snap back.
"True, but your bond with one another creates a perfect storm for me," the man said, then in one smooth motion drew what look like a gun from his trench coat, making Aozora and Miho go wide eye, but nothing could be done.
Then the sound of loud pop was heard, but was too small to be even considered a gunshot. As Aozora had already put herself between Miho and whatever the man was holding, then she felt two needle-like prongs burst through her thin shirt and into her skin, making her grunt in pain. Though that was only the start, as she saw that each prong was attached to a thin wire, leading all the way back to the man. It was finally looking at the man, did the blood drain from Aozora's face as he was holding a taser gun.
She wasn't given time to beg, ask for mercy, or even curse the man.
As a sudden jolt snap-through Aozora's body, making it feel like every muscle was being made to freeze in place. Arms and legs instantly lock up, as Aozora fell over onto her back, all the while shaking violently from the sudden shock. Even her yelps of pains wouldn't come to her, as she merely mumbled lowly while trying to whether through the taser's effect.
"Aozora!" Miho yell in distress to her big tankery sister.
"Ah, ah, ah, no yelling," the man said, using his free hand to bring it up to his mouth in a whisper.
"Stop…please…," Miho said in near tears.
The man complied, letting his finger off the trigger, with Aozora allow to have her motor functions back. The poor woman instantly began to try to find her breaths, while Miho kneel down to her side to find any way to help, but only able to get the older women to sit upright.
"Bastard," Aozora cursed through clenched teeth, still shaking off the effects of the taser, then look to remove the metal prongs before she was given another taste.
Yet was stopped when the man let out a tsk sound. "I wouldn't do that if I were you, trying to remove those without professional medical personnel's touch would be disastrous for that fine body of yours, besides the fact I'll shock you again if you try."
"Please, don't hurt her. I'll do what you ask," Miho said, standing to her feet, as shaky as they were, while moving closer to the man.
"No Miho, don't give in. I can take this, he's just trying to get you to talk ill of your family, even if it's not the truth," Aozora argued.
Looking over her shoulder back to her Aozora, Miho just smiled sadly. "I know, but I won't let anyone else get hurt, especially my family."
Aozora simply was stunned for a moment, seeing how earnest Miho was about now protecting her from any pain. Which warm the older women's heart at how much Miho care about her, making Aozora that much more grateful to have crossed paths with this very girl who could make you feel like family, even without a drop of blood shared with one another.
Yet this little moment didn't last long, as the man began to chuckle lowly, getting both of their attentions, as he calm down to talk again.
"Now this wholesome scene is getting boring, so let's get to business," the man said, reaching into his pocket to produce a phone, that he quickly work to get on a voice recording app. "Now, I'm just going to need you to answer some quick questions, then I'll be on my way."
"Ask what you want," Miho said timidly, her hands held close to her chest, speaking to her discomfort.
"Did Shiho Nishizumi force your sister Maho to do Sensha-do, even with her health?" The man ask, holding the phone out to make sure to get the answer.
"No," Miho said, even scared, she stood her ground.
Which made the man sigh in displeasure. "Wrong answer, little girl."
Then he pull the trigger of the taser, sending a jolt of electricity into Aozora who once again tense up, while unable to scream as well.
Miho instantly spoke. "I answer you!"
"As I said before, wrong answer, little girl," the man said, letting go of the trigger, much to Aozora's relief as she took deep breaths to get through the pain.
"It's the truth," Miho argue, shaking all the while.
The man simply shook his head. "The truth is in the eye of the beholder, as they say."
"I….I think that's the wrong use of philosophy here, you physco," Aozora growl, but was tame now, for fear of another shock.
"Who cares," the man said, then turn to Miho. "I want you to answer me, tell me your mother beat you and your sister to mold you into tankers. Tell me that's why you ran to Chi-Ha-Tan to get away from it all. Once I get your confession, I'll let your friend go."
"My….mother…she….no…I can't say that," Miho said timorously, looking around desperately for anything that could get them out of this situation.
"Stop looking for excuses or a way out. I'll shock this pretty lady here for as long as I like till I get the answers I want," the man said, itching his finger over the trigger again.
Seeing nothing that could help them in this empty ally, Miho with near tears in her eyes, simply nodded to the man's request.
"No, Miho, don't give in. If you say what he wants you'll only damage your family's reputation, worse when it isn't true," Aozora said, but as she finish she got another round of shocks causing her to spasm.
"Stop! I'll talk…I'll talk," Miho said coming closer to the man, waving her arms in distress to make him stop hurting her big tankery sister.
"That's good, now speak loud and clear. Tell me your mother, Shiho Nishizumi, beat you and your sister, made Maho fight through her sickness for the sake of prestige, and will be all done," the man said, holding the phone out to get good audio.
Miho, clasping her hands together in deep sorrow, began to speak slowly. "My mother…she…she be-."
Suddenly a bottle came flying through the air in a flash, spinning like a turn wheel with expert precision. It found its target in the man's hand holding the phone, smashing cleanly, sending glass fragments everywhere. A yelp of pain escape the man's lips, as some of the shards were embedded into his flesh, but never let go of the taser in the other as he turn to the direction of where the bottle came from, while holding his injured hand to his chest.
Miho as well turn in that direction, to find who their savior was. Walking slowly up to the trio, is what looked to be a young teenager came into view, wearing black jeans, with a dark blue shirt that had some sort of white dragon design on it, with matching black converse.
The sun shining down reveal he was a little taller than the average teen, sporting large green eyes, with neat black hair that was cut into a neat fade and with the top comb-over. With strong chiseled features with a slight scar over his left cheek, with his skin a light tan. The young handsome teen swaggered over to the trio with his hands in his pockets, while his face was contorting into what looked like annoyance.
"Who the hell are you?" the man said, holding his bleeding hand to his trench coat, in obvious discomfort.
Yet the young boy simply shrug. "The cavalry, I guess."
"If you know what's good for you, leave before I zap this chick because of your interference," the man said with venom in his voice.
"Wow, a real gentleman you are. Look, I don't what's going on here, but I got things to do, so best put the taser down before you make a fool of yourself," the boy said taking his hands out of his pockets.
"How about I don't do any of that. While you take a hint and leave, before I make good on this threat," the man said, his finger inching over the trigger again, making Aozora wince knowing she might get another round of shocking.
Yet, while this was all happening, Miho standing between the two, felt a chance was being given to her, as the man was distracted by her savior and had completely now ignored Miho who was standing close enough to her foe, with one of his hands to injure to use. Taking a quick breath for courage, Miho did something dangerous and crazy, that she knew her team would give her grief for, but they could be attributed to Miho's more bold nature, as the Tigress leaped into action.
Closing the distance with a large stride, Miho got within her foe's guard, who quickly turn to her, but could do little with his injured hand and the taser in the other. Though he pull the trigger to send another jolt to Aozora who spasm for the umpteenth time in her mind, but didn't last long, as Miho's objective was for the very thing hurting Chi-Ha-Tan's guardian in the sky. With a clumsy, but effective swipe, Miho dislodge the taser from the man's hand, which fell quickly to the floor, to which Miho pounced on it ripping the cartridge off, so it could no longer be able to hurt Aozora.
"Damn you," the man said, turning to make a grab for Miho with an injured hand in all.
Miho brought her hands up to protect herself from whatever her assailant was going to do, but never felt the impact of being grabbed. Instead, she heard a grunt and the crash of bodies going down together, making her bring her hands down, so Miho could see the boy from earlier was now wrestling on the ground with the man, who wasn't backing down even if everything was going against him.
Turning, Miho saw Aozora try to stand up to help, but collapse as her body was still feeling the effects of the shocks and was numb, meaning Miho needed to do something. Quickly she look around the ground for something to use and quickly found something unexpected. It was another taser cartridge, that must have fallen from the man's coat jacket in the tussle being his replacement, to which Miho jump into action, quickly grabbing it and the taser gun, but fumble on how to get it loaded, as never use it or seen one before.
"Bastard!"
Miho, still fumbling with the taser, saw the man had thrown the boy off him as he stood up, while turning to her now. He grew angry seeing she had the taser in hand now, which sent him into action trying to come after her to get it out of her hands before she used it on him. Making Miho fumble even more with trying to get the cartridge in, but wouldn't make it in time, just as the man was about to swipe at her.
"Oh no, you don't!" Aozora said, coming in at the last second, tackling the man down, letting out a gasp of pain, as the metal prongs in her body still, were twisted painfully as the two went down, but Aozora pushed past the pain as she try to buy Miho time.
"Come on, come on, come on," Miho berated herself, trying to get the taser to take the fresh cartridge.
Suddenly the boy from earlier came up to her in a flash. "Here, give it to me."
Miho didn't need to be told twice, quickly handing the taser and cartridge over, to which the boy took and reloaded it in quick succession. Then he turn around, holding his hand out to get Miho behind him, as the man had got Aozora off him, while now coming again for Miho, but was shocked to see the taser in the boy's hand, looking to use it on him now.
Quickly the man put his hands up in fear of being shocked. "Okay, okay, I give up."
"The hell with that, shock that bastard. Let him get a taste of what he did to me," Aozora moan out, holding a hand to the spot the metal prongs still protruded out of her body.
Miho ran around the boy for Aozora coming to her side in a flash, kneeling down to help her sit up. "Aozora, are you okay?"
"I'm fine, going to have a nice story to tell the girls when we get home of how fierce you are," Aozora said with a painful smile trying to ease the young girl's heart.
"Aozora," was all Miho said, sadness gripping her, while she wrap her arms around the older woman who once more went out of her way to protect Miho, her little tankery sister.
"Easy honey, easy, I'm alright," Aozora said, while stroking Miho's hair to calm her down with one hand while the other held her close, as she turn to the man still holding his arms up. "You're going to pay for even daring to touch her."
Before anyone could say anything else, a loud sound of whistle echoed throughout the alleyway, making all eyes turn to the source, as two police officers were running towards them. Quickly they came onto the scene, looking to Miho and Aozora huddle together on the ground, while the man was being held at point by the boy with a taser.
Instantly both officers place their hands on their nightsticks, as one of them gave a command. "Drop the taser and come quietly."
The boy simply sigh, knowing he was in a bad spot, as he look like the assailant instead of the savior. Yet comply with the order, dropping the taser on the ground while holding his hands up, as the officers began to close in to make an arrest, but Miho wasn't going to let her savior be put in jail when he was the one to save them, as she let go of Aozora to rise to her feet.
"Officers!" Miho yell, though still with her mask and hood on to cover her identity.
Both men stop, looking at the mask-up girl.
"This boy save me and my friend. It's this man who threaten us and taser my friend, look at her," Miho said frantically pointing to Aozora.
Both officers did, looking at the older women with the metal prongs sticking out of her, then they look at each other while seeming to speak with their minds, then one of them spoke. "Alright, we're taking you all in. Will get to the bottom of this, while will get Miss…."
"Miss Suzume," Aozora said with a weary smile.
"Miss Suzume to the nearest hospital to be treated, will get our answers there first," the officer said.
Instantly Aozora felt an idea come to her head, as it seem this misfortunate situation, was about to be fortunate. "Please, let me take my friend's daughter with me. As you can see, she is a little sick and frail. I took her out today to get some sun on her."
"The hell are lying for, that's Miho Nishizumi officers," the man said quickly, hoping this might salvage the situation for him.
"No, that's my friend's daughter, Nami. You can check with her, I can give you her contact info," Aozora said, playing on actually having a friend who had a daughter name Nami who she knew would play along, while giving her grief later about getting into trouble.
"Fine, will do that. While you two are going to have to come down to the station with us," the officer said, gesturing to the boy and man.
"Didn't you hear me, that's Miho Nishizumi right there!" the man said frantically, bewilder the officers were letting this go.
"Yea and I'm the prime minister of Japan, now come on sir," one of the officers said, coming up to him and placing handcuffs on the man who complain more and more which wasn't going to help his case later on, especially once the taser came back in his name, which was illegal to have in Japan.
While the other officer then look at the boy for a moment who was still standing around but lower his hands. "Now for you."
"Sorry, but I got work do in the city, later," the boy said, then took off down the alleyway, with the officer calling from him to stop, but didn't go after him, seeing he had a more important task of getting Aozora to a hospital.
Quickly the officer grab his strap walkie talkie and pressed to speak. "This is officer Nariakira, down near Tokyo university hospital. I have a 10-18 for a female that was struck by a taser, while I got confirmation on the 10-40. I have runner, a boy wearing black jeans and blue shirt who ran, heading north, no eyes at this time, request more officers to help find him."
A voice reply back over the net. "10-15, ambulance 10-17 to your location."
"10-15, will standby," Nariakira said, then turn to both of the ladies. "An ambulance is en route, will take you to the hospital and get this sorted out quickly."
"Thank you," Aozora said with a nod, while Miho came to her side again.
"Miho," Aozora whispered. "This is a heck of a chance. Will stay the night at the hospital, then you have one chance to get in contact with your sister before we have to leave before they find out who you are."
An odd chance once more was given to Miho, who simply nodded, knowing this was her moment to get to Maho and find out if she was ok and why she did what she did. Then it be off to her mother and that would be a trial that would test Miho, to return to the home she had been so desperate to escape, but this was the path laid before her and would not waiver in its course.
As Miho had weathered the first trial, but only more awaited her still.
Though there was something that was pondering her mind.
Who was that boy?
XxxxX
"Ah, finally got some distance," the teenage boy said, having been running around the alleys for some time, to get distance from the little scuffle he got into with that trio.
It still baffle him to see someone have a taser, with such strict rules on guns in Japan, meaning trench coat man had to have gotten it off the black market. Yet whatever the case, the girls were saved and going to be taken care of, though the delay had pushed him off course to do the job he was needed to be doing in the capital city, even worse he was the one to call the cops before he got into that confrontation as a safety measure in case things went south.
"Damn, the others would be giving me grief about how soft I am," the boy said, knowing now the cops might be looking for him, so he needed to get his job done before he got spotted since they most likely put a report out for him.
Finally calming his breaths down, the boy began to walk, but was stopped as his cellphone began to ring. He quickly reach into his pocket to produce said phone, with a deep groan of displeasure escaping his lips as he look at the caller ID, which was the last person he wanted to talk to right now. However, duty call, as he press the receive button and held the phone up to his ear.
"What do you want?" the boy said with a vexed tone.
"So you have the balls to be late to our meetup and give me attitude? If you weren't the boss's favorite, I leave you in the gutter somewhere boy," the voice deep and rough, the boy's partner on this little venture, not by choice if he were honest.
"I like to see you try Inouye. You'll be spitting your teeth out before you can blink," the boy said, his voice low and threatening, with all the conviction of someone who make the threat possible.
"Fuck you, Tohaku. Just get your ass over to the meeting spot, we got a customer who owes the boss money and we aim to collect. Leaving you with the job to make sure he understands the price of disrespecting the boss's kindness," Inouye said back.
"Yea, yea, I read the profile. He should be hiding at his sister's apartment, will get in and threaten him so he pays up and if we have to get physical we will," Tohaku said, with a huff of annoyance that his partner was explaining things again to him.
"You handle the beating and I'll help myself to a taste test of the sister," Inouye huskily said.
Making Tohaku growl over the phone, with his free hand forming into a fist. "Dammit Inouye, how many times do we go over this? The boss has rules, no hurting of women or children. Were scumbags who collect money from desperate people, but at least we do it as honorably as possible."
"The fuck, come on. You only say that because you got some lady waiting on you, what's her name again?" Inouye ask.
"None of your concern," Tohaku angrily said, never wanting to hear this trash say the name of his lover.
"Tam...Ta...Tamada...or wait you like that first name she has...Haru that's what it was. Since you got ladies always wanting to pounce on you, why wait for some school carrier girl?" Inouye ask.
"I said don't say her name!" Tohaku yell over the phone.
Yet Inouye wasn't perturbed by the outburst, as even on the phone, Tohaku could practically see his malicious smile, knowing he was pressing the right buttons to get what he wanted. Which Tohaku curse himself for rising to the provocations on this man who love to torment the weak. A bully in every sense of the word, the very type of person Tohaku had fought over and over again in the orphanage he grew up in, whether it was him being bullied or any of the other kids.
How ironic now, was he the one bully others, but not for some personal gain, but to make a living. A living that hopefully get him out of this life one day and back into the arms of his lover.
No matter the cost to himself.
Inouye spoke, breaking Tohaku from his thoughts. "Fine, fine, I won't say her name. Just funny to me is all, how you know she hasn't moved on to some other guy?"
"Our bond is stronger than anything you can imagine," Tohaku said, confidence oozing from it.
"Yuck, you sound like a damn romantic kid. People fucking change, it's life. Don't be surprised to find her being clingy to some other guy when you go back to her or worse you find her under some guy," Inouye said with a dark chuckle following.
"Fuck you. I know your used to only paying women to keep you company, making me feel honestly bad for them, because there shouldn't be enough money in the world to make that happen," Tohaku snap back.
"You damn brat! Just hurry up before I leave you to do this by yourself!" Inouye yell back, then without waiting for a response cut the call.
Tohaku just smile, as he put the phone back in his pocket. Then began to walk down the deserted alley, but for a moment stop, to look back the way he came. As he began to wonder if that girl he rescue was really Miho Nishizumi, as that crazy reporter had accused she was.
If that was the case, then Tohaku just miss his golden opportunity. Though not in the sense that he might have taken advantage of what was happening to the Nishizumi family, but for something far more simple. As he knew Miho was the commander of the Chi-Ha-Tan Sensha-do team, which so far was turning the whole Sensha-do league itself upside down with their string of victories propelling them to the semi-final.
Tohaku knew Chi-Ha-Tan was something of a comical joke around the nation before, as they simply charge their enemies with reckless regard that push them down to the bottom of the barrel when it came to the league. Yet all it took was this Miho girl coming to their school and now they were being talked about as the hottest thing since forever.
Which please Tohaku, as he knew from Tamada the previous year that their team was on the edge of collapse after what happened with Saunders in the 62 National tournament. She was so dejected and lost it broke Tohaku's heart to see her fiery spirit so batter. To which they rectify some, as they connected with each other after reuniting after so long apart.
Suddenly, that night of passion came back to Tohaku, seeing Tamada, no, Haru fluster and breathtaking at the same time beneath him. Remember her sweet moans that fill his ears and his passion, feeling her fingers playing with his hair as they fell asleep together, and the soft-spoken promises that they be together in the end. With their ultimate goal starting a family, knowing because of each other's past, they would never abandon the child they create. They would love and cherish it with all their heart and see them grow happy and excited for the world before them.
Damn, to think that's all that's keeping me on my feet at this moment. Seeing Haru again, probably celebrating her winning Nationals next time we see each other, I just hope she waited for me…no she never abandon me, not like our own parents, we both are all we have. She doesn't need to know about this terrible part of my life, just need to see it through and build our home together.
"Though I wish I could talk to Miss Nishizumi. Probably give her a note or something to take to Haru, while thanking her for making Chi-Ha-Tan the team it is, that I know made Haru beyond happy, though will leave it at me just rescuing her as my silent thank you," Tohaku said to himself.
Then he walk down the deserted alleyway, with a little kick in his step, as each step felt like he was getting closer to his ultimate goal, even if was the less than honorable path, it was his path. With the end of it leading to the most beautiful girl in the world waiting for him, to hold her close, and never let go of again no matter what befell him.
XxxxX
"As you can see these grievances have not been verified to the letter. The parties involved refuse to reveal their identity," a man said, he was well dressed in a business suit of all black, even his undershirt, with a silver tie to go along with it.
Currently, the man sat on his knees in front of a low table where he was working the case of his defendant, Shiho Nishizumi. His name was Eijiro Murata, the defense lawyer for the Nishizumi family. His record included defending high-profile athletes in Japan and some celebrities. Yet this was his biggest case of all in fighting for the great Nishizumi family headmistress.
Shiho herself was sitting on her knees as well, by his side. Wearing her trademark black blazer and jodhpur pants, though shoeless. Her face was completely stoic, but there was evident tiredness in her eyes. Having spent long hours trying to fight to keep open her tankery schools across the nation, but to no avail, while also being stressed being under home arrest and allow no contact with her daughters till the investigation was done.
"Under law, these ladies have a right to their identities being kept secret. Or would like them to be hazed again? Possibly having our dear Shiho here send some of her graduate students to go after them for speaking out," a man across from the low table said, with his associate at his side.
The man was young, only in his late twenties, sporting a smug look. He was dressed in a similar suit of tan color, with a Japanese Federal Investigator badge on his breast pocket. His name was Uchima Yoritoki, having been put on the case looking into the grievances against the Nishizumi family of their heinous acts of hazing girls from their Sensha-do club.
"Not if we take this to a judge and demand for identities. We need truth and not false allegations against my client, unless you forgot the rules that she is innocent until proven guilty," Eijiro said.
Which made Uchima chuckle a bit. "My word, what terrible luck you have. One of our nation's top defense lawyers put in a no-win scenario. Why protect this vile woman who saw her daughters as nothing as tools? It makes sense w-."
Suddenly a hand slap the table making everyone jump, including Shiho herself, as she hadn't been the one to do it.
Instead, all eyes turn to the last member in the room sitting by Uchima. Significantly older than his colleague, being somewhere in his mid-50's. Sporting a full head of grey hair neatly cut and wearing a matching grey business suit, sporting the Federal Investigator badge as well.
"If you mean to be rude in another person's home, then I might have been too brash to put you on this case Mister Yoritoki," the older man said.
"Senior Lieutenant Kyushichi, this is a serious matter. You can't sit there and not want to call this woman out on her heinous acts," Uchima said aghast at his bosses' want to defend the women in question.
"This isn't defending, this is a lesson in proper procedure. Never berate the accused, it only gives ammunition for their defense lawyer to use if they feel you have a personal vendetta," Kyushichi said sharply, making his subordinate back down.
Which made Eijiro grimace as he had hoped to pull the brash young investigator into saying more, hoping to use any words said court against the investigation team.
"Well, once again Mister Kyushichi, you prove to be the bane of all defense lawyers once again," Eijiro said with a small smile.
Making the older investigator chuckle. "It's part of the job. While I meant what I said, I don't like berating any accused until all the evidence is found. Please Miss Nishizumi, accept my apology on behalf of the rudeness earlier from my protégé."
Shiho said nothing, eyeing the old man with a observant eye, but nodded tiredly, then return to looking down at the ground.
To think I've seen this woman for a near-decade look as if she were made of iron, but now…now she looks like a fractured glass ready to break…which isn't going to make the next part any easier on her
Kyushichi thought, with a small sigh, then spoke up as it was his turn to take over the meeting. "As of now, these grievances are still to be looked into to find the truth. Though we haven't gotten into contact with the women in question."
Which made Eijiro give a questioning look. "Then what was the purpose of you coming to my client's home?"
Both investigators look to one another, then Uchima reach into a briefcase beside him. Opening it up he took out a small bunch of papers, then slid them across to the defense lawyer to read. To which he rapidly did, while Shiho still remain docile from the whole affair, seeming to want to be anywhere but in the present room.
Then suddenly Eijiro drop the papers on the table as he spoke. "You can't be serious with this."
"Unfortunately we are, this was sigh by Federation Director Kodama himself," Uchima said, with his smug smile.
Quickly Eijiro turn to Kyushichi. "This is too much to happen all at once. We have the right to meet one case at a time."
"This case will be settled by Shiho's children if they testify," Kyushichi said bluntly.
The once docile Shiho, now became animated at the talk of her daughters. "What needs to be settled by my daughters?"
"Now you care, huh?" Uchima said with a suspicious tone.
"I will mind your tongue boy, unless you forget what your boss said earlier. This is my house no matter what and if you don't abide by simple etiquette of respect, then you have best leave, for your only making yourself look like a bigger fool as you waggle your tounge that is only annoying me at present," Shiho said, eyeing the man with a hard look.
Which had the effect of sending a cold shiver down the young man's back. Seeing that the disgraced headmistress still had that fire in her eyes and look ready to make good on her promise to kick him out even if he was authority. Yet quickly Uchima got his composure back, staring back at Shiho with an equally hard gaze.
"You best remember that your power is all but gone. All you have now is this estate and nothing more, the empire you built for yourself has all but crumbled," Uchima snarl.
Eijiro quickly jump in. "Are you making a threat against my client?"
"No, get of-," Uchima try to say.
"Then why this unprofessionalism in this case? If I look into your background, will I find a reason for a grudge against Miss Nishizumi? If so, then you very well might have gotten this case thrown out," Eijiro said with a confident tone of a lawyer in his element.
Which made Uchima balk, realizing he had gone too far. "You can construe it that way, but this is n-."
"Investigator Uchima, leave this room at once," Kyushichi shot in, before his protégé completely destroy their case.
With Uchima looking ready to argue, but seeing his boss's face contort into anger only made him sigh in agreement. Yet gave Shiho one last loathing look, before he rose up, then bow to everyone and left the room. Once he was gone Kyushichi rub his head thinking he needed to probably put his protégé back down to local investigations, as he wasn't ready for this sort of level. Yet what was done, was done, and now Kyushichi turn back to his two left in the room.
"Again, I'm sorry for his rudeness. Next time I'll just come by myself. Now on to matter at hand, yes Miss Nishizumi, the matter of the testifying of your daughters is part of a new case being open up," Kyushichi said.
Shiho felt her heart begin to beat fast. "May I ask why the Sensha-do Federation Director open this up?"
"It concerns the wellbeing of your daughters. Mister Kodama has submitted papers that he believes indicates that you are in no position to have custody of your daughters due to recent events," Kyushichi stated.
For a moment Shiho couldn't believe what she just heard. "You…you mean you're taking Miho and Maho from me…you can't."
"Unforutently we can. Due to recent events, we believe it's best to get them into custody before another incident like Miss Maho's illness happens again," Kyushichi said.
"Bu…but I never force Maho into Sensha-do with a sickness. I didn't even know about her condition till the after the match," Shiho argued.
"The law states that since the children are over fifteen, they must be forthcoming about any child neglect or other offenses. You have one month to get these statements before the case is thrown out," Eijiro said quickly.
Making Kyushichi chuckle. "Quick on the ball as usual. Well, you're not the top defense lawyer for nothing. Your right, but with this case being put forward, we can't have any outside interference. Meaning Miss Nishizumi, you cannot have any contact with them for a month. Even if these grievances prove to be nothing but false, Miho and Maho will stay in their current care till then."
"No…you can't keep me from them. I need to know their ok…I…you ca…," Shiho suddenly couldn't finish her sentences.
"I am truly sorry, but these girls of yours might be better off without this expectation on them. Once the questioning is conducted and if they reject any of the previous mention parental offenses, then they can be let back to you, Miss Nishizumi," Kyushichi said.
"No…ple…please their daughters…all I have left in this world," Shiho pleaded.
Kyushichi though wasn't sway by the plea, as he was an officer of the law. "This is something I cannot change. I…I mean no offense Miss Nishizumi, but perhaps this is a time to reflect on what is important. These girls of yours will have to carry on with this shame at their back…maybe it's best to allow them to be free of this life your family forced on them, as they did you."
Shiho said nothing back to that, but soon let her anger and sadness all mix in. Held in check for so many years, now unleashed in this instance as she shot up from her sitting position. "What do you know!? Nothing that's what! I have given everything to this life, against my own will! Yet you think it easily talk down about it! Like what I've done has meant nothing!"
Quickly Kyushichi try to calm down the angry women. "Please Miss Nishizumi, as I've said, I don't mean to disrespect you or besmirch your family's honor."
"Yet that's all you have done! You and your insufferable subordinate, insulting me directly and subtly! Ask yourself what you had to sacrifice for your family, because whatever it was could never surmount to my pain I've suffer for mine! For honor, prestige, and respect! Yet none of it was what I craved…only…only…what do I have left now," Shiho said, her statement becoming less volatile and losing its bite, as she fell back to her knees, completely defeated.
Seeing his mistake of saying too much now, Kyushichi bow his head to Nishizumi headmistress. "I apologize for my unkind words, know I have many female family members who took up Sensha-do in the Nishizumi style. It only pains me to see this state of things and I overstep with my emotions."
Nothing was said from Shiho to this response as she simply stare at the tatami floor mat.
Eijiro seeing this state of affairs was too much, turn to Kyushichi and spoke. "I think it best we end this meeting."
"I do as well. Yet again, your client can have no contact with her children till we question them or the month ends. While we continue the investigations into these grievances," Kyushichi said.
"Very well, my office will be in contact with yours," Eijiro said, then bow his head in respect.
Kyushichi did the same, then stood up and left the room.
Eijiro quickly turn to Shiho. "Know I will do all I can to fight this. I will have your daughters to you."
Yet again Shiho was silent, seeming to not even hear her lawyer speak, then she spoke softly. "Please leave me."
"Miss Nishizumi?" Eijiro question.
"I said leave me!" Shiho shouted turning her face to him in anger.
The defense lawyer quickly lean away in shock to see the more calm client he had known, now look on the edge of having a mental collapse. Which didn't bode well for Eijiro, since the greatest ace in his sleeve was that Shiho was known for being cool and collected, but if her mental state came into question, that might only give his enemies easy pulls in court to use against him.
Collecting himself quickly, Eijiro spoke. "Miss Nishizumi, I will take my leave. When you need me, contact my office. I will be working with my staff to do all we can to see this through."
Then Eijiro stood up and bow to Shiho, then as well left the room.
While Shiho return to her self-depressing state, as her mind became a pool of dark thoughts. As the weight of the failure and now decline of her reign was only becoming steeper with no way to stop it. Her fears that Miho and Maho might actually agree to being taken out of her care.
Yet something else was on the surface.
Something Shiho couldn't even believe she was feeling.
For it was jealousy.
Jealously, since when Shiho was subjected to a beating from her mother, did anyone come to save her from tradition? The simple answer was no. Just nothing but bruises and a shattered mind for her to carry on with, even having to be absent from her school for a couple of days as she heal properly. Then returned and acted as if everything was ok, while carrying her tears and pain inside and never being shown to anyone.
Yet the here and now, saw Shiho now be placed in the same scenario. However, unlike her mother, Shiho never raise a hand to her daughters, for that pain she carried prevented her from doing so. Shiho still kept the need for continuing the line of success for the Nishizumi family, with still an iron will even when Tsueno left her, but never resorted to any brutality to make it happen.
Maybe the brutality was not of a physical form, but a mental one
Shiho thought, feeling anger now starting to build once mopre, as her emotions became a mix of animosity and jealousy.
Why did no one save me?
Why am I the villain?
I wanted to change, and yet this is the reward for thoughts of being who I once was….
It's pointless…
Everything is pointless…
Maybe Maho and Miho deserve something better….
Without me….
Yet…why can't I find salvation in this terrible cycle of my family…maybe I'm cursed…maybe I just fool myself for so long I don't know who I really am…or maybe changing is not something I can do anymore…or should even try...
Damn my mother...
Damn this family...
I'm so tired...
I'm so...
Dead inside...
Nothing matters anymore...
And nobody matters to me anymore...
Shiho's thoughts became heavier and heavier, the dark clouds forming more and more. Her hands clench into a fist at her side. Feeling herself become lost in her foreboding and heinous thoughts till she finally snap. As this women of iron and fortitude incase her heart, done with her attempt of trying to change after already going through the gauntlet before and was done with this fight to be anyone other than she was always meant to be in the end, even if it made her the villain now people wanted of her.
With a need to take her frustration out on something, she raise her fist and brought it done on the table with tremendous force, smashing the cup of green tea as if it were nothing. The contents of the drink instantly began to roll over the side of the table and onto the floor. The green was mixed with red, as a shard from the cup had cut into Shiho's hand, but she never noticed it or felt the pain at all.
Suddenly the sliding door to the room was open suddenly, as a Kikuyo came in, wearing her main kimono of blue and white. The once-proud gunner for Shiho, let her eyes drift to the smashed cup and the blood seeping from Shiho's fist that still was on the table and floor. Which prompted the maid to act quickly, ripping a piece of her Kimono and coming over to wrap the injured hand.
As Kikuyo kneel beside Shiho, she reach a hand to take her headmistresses' injured one, but suddenly it snatch away.
"Don't touch me," Shiho said, her voice icy cold that sent a shiver down Kikuyo.
Yet the maid steady herself. "My lady I need to dress your wound."
"You don't need to do anything. Leave me," was all Shiho said, as her eyes darted to the side.
"My lady, please," Kikuyo pleaded.
"I said leave me!" Shiho yell.
Causing Kikuyo to wince, with near tears in her eyes. This wasn't the lady she remember from recent days as she was breaking from the cold women, though the anger was there, Kikuyo could see the sadness in Shiho's eyes. Kikuyo could see the broken woman being hidden by this mask of strength that had been slowly whither down over the past couple of months. Kikuyo had hope that the road to reuniting the family had been close at hand before the match with Chi-Ha-Tan and Oarai, with Shiho becoming more open.
Yet in this instance, it seem lost for good.
I will not back down from this…for I was raised with the Nishizumi style and the very woman that saved my life when I was at my darkest…
"You need your hand treated, please allow me this chance to do my duty," Kikuyo said with a stalwart look.
With Shiho staring deeply into her maid's eyes, completely devoid of emotions. With every moment passing between them felt like an hour, but eventually, Shiho acted. Standing to her feet she walk to the door to leave the room, then stop just as she was about to leave and turn back to Kikuyo.
"Let it be known, that every maid in my service is fired," Shiho said without batting an eyelash.
For a moment, Kikuyo was baffled, as she tried to find her words, then spoke. "My lady, that is too much."
"Not when their spies among them," Shiho said with a hint of malice.
"Spies?" Kikuyo said dumbstruck.
Shiho stare hard at her. "Everyone but you. We shall see if your loyalty is worth anything."
"My lady, please don't go down this path. Don't lose what you've gained, what can still be salvaged," Kikuyo pleaded, with tears in her eyes seeing her headmistresses becoming as cold as Nayoko was.
"My path cannot be averted. Do as I command or I'll see you join them," Shiho said, then left the room, as small drips of blood patter onto the floor from her injured hand.
If Kikuyo were honest, she felt those were the tears Shiho couldn't find to shed, the tears of all the Nishizumi women who had fought for the right of this family. Since they could never cry when they were hurting, never show emotion, only the iron will was what mattered.
Blood and iron were the Nishizumi way since their clan was founded.
Which might lead to its fall now, as Kikuyo swallow her tears and began to clean up the mess and steel herself to be by Shiho's side.
Even to the end.