A/N: As of 02/11/2024 this initial arc has been revised. While grammar errors may still be present, the final editing run plot-wise is now done. For those coming here straight from the upload notice, chapter 15 titled Scarred Blades is a new entry added to the story during the editing run and this is just the old chapter 17 moved forward one step.
As a small heads-up, I've been working on the following five chapters as a group since a long time. Sorry for the silence since and if this upload doesn't progress the plot, but once I'm done polishing details and wordings those five chapters should be coming in quick succession one after the other.
If you want to have a peek at why these chaps took so long compared to my usual, the new chapter 15 is an addition made after the fact and drafting of these five chapters leading into the second arc. Besides the plot and event ordering, I also added a small 'summary' section before a chapter starts as a small reminder for you readers since my uploads are long and my upload schedule is growing slower.
Anyways, this is mostly just an update to put some order into the first arc. I'm happy with the editing run and this final version all things considered. I may take a few months to work on batches of chapters like this to prevent editing runs in the future, so I don't think I'll go back to my prior upload schedule. Whenever I upload, a few chaps should come in groups then there will be weeks or months of nothing.
Thanks for reading, commenting and waiting. Stay safe over there, and sorry to those I didn't reply during New Years and Christmas. My end of 2023 was a bit chaotic, in a good sense, but still chaotic.
Wish you all the best 2024!
Zuoriel
Chapter 17:
Shadow(s) of Comfort
In previous chapters: The CCSE had been progressing just fine, Takeru had even been able to make some manner of peace with Meiya during their time alone in the test. Unexpected setbacks have arisen in the CCSE however, separating the five young women from Takeru. Amidst the drizzle, Chizuru orders to cut the rope tying both ends of the ravine, abandoning Takeru to the chasers to ensure their escape. Without looking back, they flee the scene and leave him to Lady Fate's mercy.
Yet Fate would have it that others require her mercy instead, much as those away from the island yet vigilant of its unfolding events.
[Recommended Music: Prosperity, Shadowrun Hong Kong.]
Closing was the year, the good weather too. Almost mimicking the mood of those below, the clouds cry in their stead. Constant, gentle, soft. Washing away the grime, the oil, the stains, a small respite for those weary hands. Caging as well in a rampart of gray, and much like the visage within minds the horizon remains captive of the storm.
Only faint threads of light reach the ground, a distant silhouette of the sun occasionally shifting through into view, dim enough to stare at. Those feeble rays were by far ample enough to overpower the absence of any shine in the many who walk and work, assailed incessantly by duty much like the land in downpour.
Sound of boosters. Trigger finger tightening. Rumbling shackles limbs. Metallic screeches extend their welcome, followed closely by explosions.
Drawing halves of circles two shapes of red skirt the blazes, the spinning and falling choppers, the shattered glass for confetti. Facing each other, divesting of emptied rifles. One second, blades aim upwards. Two, three, the heels burn in acceleration, blur all but the enemy. Four, five, air wraps onto the torsos, gyrating to aim the incoming attack.
Both recoil about in the cockpit upon impact, a green light chiming in to give some manner of relief. It did not do much of anything, just as the rainfall to the people enduring the colder, harsher climate of post-invasion Japan.
"Mutual knockout. Both forces have been eliminated. Exercise finished," told the operator with exactly the same apathy as the clouds, cutting the connection before the virtual arena begins to dim from those partaking in it.
A few moments for breaths to be collected and reshuffled is taken, all pilots soon disembark the simulator units. Gathering around together, the leader of each side stands in front of the group at large, reviewing the footage, certain moments at a time.
"-and you both would be better served to polish your CQC, Sanada, Nanase," Amato admonishes, arms folded in marshal manner.
"Ma'am, yes, ma'am," both fresh recruits say, saluting their new captain, inner cheeks more dry than their stomachs.
"On that regard, there seems to be much to do regarding our long range support," Maya notes, tapping her glasses, forwarding the horns. "Only 2nd Lt Fujiwara performed as expected. Do not rest on your laurels because your skill is acceptable today! Your fellows' lives may depend on your sniping tomorrow."
"Yes, ma'am."
"In any case," stepping back and calming down, she simply nods at all present, "it was an adequate result for the day, since we were merely sparring. All of us Horns shall be following your progress, trainees," Maya nods sharply, all her fellows do too towards the already nervous and further cracked younglings.
"No further comments from me. It was a pleasure to cross strikes with you. I expect to be surprised next time," Raiko says, dousing all energy, simply nodding at the group before saluting.
A small sharing of the gesture begins before the members are dismissed, a few onlookers then the target for the pair of gazes in red, scuttling fast once their 'admiration' was discovered. Fujiwara bows to Maya, directing the trainees towards the changing room and her own fellows as well. However, the space allowed between the two Shinpans is intruded.
A small clapping begins, followed by light chuckling. All stand in attention and solidify on the spot, some choose to vanish from the simulation room altogether, suddenly remembering their due reports and patrols.
"My, my, what a surprise. A wonderful mock battle, that was. As expected of the red lightning," Ikaruga comments as he approaches the units, nodding down at Amato and giving her an appraising gaze. "You have not lost your edge, it seems."
Sparing a glance at Maya, and those observing the talk, Raiko opts for a moderate bow, a poker face in apathy, far more still the tone. "Your compliments are appreciated, Ikaruga-sama. It is arduous to measure to the exaggerated reputation I garnered during the invasion at times."
"Nonsense, I say," he nods again, gently placing both hands behind his back. "The accolades are more than justified, it is clear leaving such a gifted pilot to languish in clerical duties was a mistake. Maya has vouched for the lethality of your line-piercing maneuvers, after all," he says, half a nod towards Tsukuyomi. Before the glint in the eyes mimics the thunders, more so the twist in his smile. "Although, I do wonder if our doctrines will match favorably…"
Not flinching away from the dare, she simply nods short. "If you are hoisting doubts on my performance, I shall enjoy the time when mine efforts trounce your expectations."
"I see, heh. I am grateful Her Highness saw reason to my proposal, much more to choose you to look after the younglings. As a matter of fact, I had a suggestion to offer, regarding your adaption to our modus operandi here in Kitanomaru while you oversee the trainees. Would you agree to hold mock battles in this manner every day near noon alongside mine own battalion? Maya, what say you?" he asks, finally taking a moment to acknowledge the second one standing, the smile still twisting.
Slowly tapping her glasses and moving not an ounce else, Maya softly starts. "Must I remind Raiko-sama is not formally part of this camp, sir?"
"She shall still be coming here for the drills. Would it not be a waste to not synchronize our efforts?"
"Sir, please, you just voiced concerns on the compatibility of our methodologies," she appeases, to a bored tilt back of the head, towering over in frost. "Ikaruga-sama, perhaps it would be more prudent to-"
"There are no issues on my end. Thank you kindly for offering, Ikaruga-sama," Raiko interjects, taking half a step forward, lightly elbowing Maya while doing so, before giving another modest bow.
Ikaruga visibly relaxes, chin and shoulders lowering and returning the almost charming angel to the features. He then simply chuckles and nods a few times. "I see, perfectly perfect then. I shall await the coming reports on the trainees' progress with bated breath. We haven't had the chance to share a battlefield yet, so I shall be looking forward to the opportunity," he smiles, extending a hand which Raiko accepts. The handshake is soft, but not brief. He cages her hand like a pigeon, teeth revealed in the twist of the smile. "I believe you will come to enjoy your time here in Kitanomaru, Captain Amato. Know that you're more than welcome to use any facilities you need, my fellow."
"Your generosity is appreciated," she says, holding the stare, softly pulling away.
Fingers coil onto the hand, giving a soft squeeze that is felt through the suit. Wider, the smile. Also, closer. "It is nothing, truly. Again, it's mypleasure to have a talented a fellow as you here. Now then, if you'd excuse me, I've many reports to tend to. I fear Maya here will scold me much if I dally any longer!" he says, finally releasing the hand and chuckling loudly, perhaps enough to put a dent in the clouds.
Maya sighs, rubbing her temple. "Indeed I will, Ikaruga-sama. I am surprised Makabe saw fit to let you wander about the camp, all things considered."
"Oh, and who said he is aware I'm not in the office?" he counters, with a small smirk.
"Pardon?"
"Hehehe, I simply couldn't contain my curiosity, to see such a wondrous pilot," he says, giving Raiko an approving nod. Before again twisting the smile and a brow, giving a small bow to Tsukuyomi. "Not that you do not have your charms, Maya, however, you can certainly forgive my slight. In any case, I should be hurrying before Makabe realizes I'm-"
"I knew it!" a voice echoes into the sim room, very much erupting to the brim. "Ta-ka-tsu-gu-sa-maaaaa…"
"Oh, my… Sigh. Such is my luck," Ikaruga chuckles dry, waving to the two women before dejectedly walking towards his retainer, who begins a round of admonishment harsher than the weather of the day, sending seldom glares at Amato and Tsukuyomi.
The small scene serves as a respite for a few onlookers, dispersing the formal air of the simulation room as the Regent is rather literally dragged by the collar despite frail wails in complain. Two of those still in the room, however, remain very much the same. Leaning on the railings, the two Shinpan are alone, undisturbed as the crowd dwindles and goes about their duties.
Maya thus sighs, hard, drops the mask and allows her composure to tighten. "Raiko, may I ask why did you agree to that proposal?"
"We cannot sow further discord, no?" she softly says, still calm and in poker, resting onto the rails. "To give motive for rumors to brew would be a severe miss, and I assume you would have been probed for ways to gain my agreement had I refused," Raiko asserts, the downcast nod from Maya makes her offer one as well. "I accepted this task knowingly and willingly, Maya. I shan't betray your trust after only a few days on the leash."
"Thank you, and apologies," she says, both sighing as they finally make their way to the changing rooms. "Know that Ikaruga-sama shall certainly try and place you either as the target enemy or working directly with him to erode your patience."
"Worry not. It won't become an issue."
"If you say so. Your stellar performance in the drill was a surprise, however. You're still as unpredictable as always," she nods, giving a faint smile as a hand hesitates before palming Raiko's middle back. "As one would expect of the Red Lightning."
"…Could you kindly not call me in that way?" she asks, very low, eyes closed.
"I do not mind, but… I thought you were proud of your doctrine?"
"I am, but that is not who I am today. It is not who I should be today, you'd agree," she scoffs at the air, eyes lost in the ceiling as a few fingers toy at the piece covering her neck.
Maya nods somberly, lips growing shallow. "Understood. Apologies."
"No offense taken. I did say I welcome this opportunity," she says, inhaling and restoring her usual composure. "If through this some would grow to favor me, then that is enough."
With no more words shared they eventually reach the changing room, which by then was mostly empty.
Only one person was there, putting on the undershirt while sitting on a bench. "Oh, Maya-sama. Did anything happen?" Fujiwara asks while flattening the shirt over her person.
Maya shakes her head, strolling to her locker. "No, Ikaruga-sama simply wished to share some words with us, is all. The rest?"
"Everybody has already changed back and is en-route to their tasks, ma'am," she says, smiling thin and saluting. Grabbing her boots, she then nods at Raiko, whose locker was right besides Fujiwara and was in the process of removing the suit. "By the by, it was a pleasure to spar with you, Amato-sama. Your reputation certainly didn't do you enough honors," she offers a slow bow, tip of the tongue roving inside at the marshal, imposing aura.
"Thank you... Fujiwara, was it? The pleasure was mine," Raiko gives a meager nod, sitting besides to remove the leg guard.
"I beg to differ, ma'am," Fujiwara remains smiling small, giving a few approving nods before the gaze stops its wandering and returns to the other eyes a few seconds too late.
Noticing the stare but remaining silent, Raiko coughs then offers a handshake. "It seems we shall be sharing the battlefield for the time being in the coming drills. Let us make the most of this arrangement."
"My, certainly," promptly accepting the hand, Fujiwara calmly returns the shake. "Any fellow of Maya-sama's a fellow of mine, and I heard from her how you backed our proposals a few days ago. If you ever require anything do not hesitate to speak with me, Amato-sama. We can always share a nice cup of tea."
Maya then turns to them, already stashing her suit. "As it were, Fujiwara, I was thinking on giving Cpt Amato a short debriefing on our standard training runs," she says, giving a frontal stare. "Would you mind assisting me with it?"
The nod is instantaneous, the cheer in eyes far faster as Fujiwara gently, not so subtly attempts to give soft pats to Amato's curved, toned forearms. "Say less, please. It would be my delight, Maya-sama. I do know Ikaruga-sama can be quite demanding, I cannot imagine what he might be concocting for us in the coming weeks."
"He seems interested in putting her fabled reputation to the test," Maya says, eyeing Raiko.
Who scoffs hard, before standing and putting the suit in its place as she moves a bit away from the one holding yellow yet not shrugging of the lingering hand. "If you've heard anything, then you can already imagine perhaps."
"Oh, dear me…" Fujiwara sighs, and along Maya share the momentary bracing. She shortly coughs, standing to put her arms through and then button up the Fudai upper coat, smiling towards Raiko again but keeping her hands to herself. Her eyes, not so much. "In any case, I shall be in the usual office if you require me. Does Amato-sama know its location?"
"Yes, Tsukuyomi already told me where to find her."
"Then, perhaps you could join us after lunch?"
"Tsukuyomi?"
"It's your call."
"Then allow me to accept your generosity," Raiko says, giving another modest bow.
Which Fujiwara mirrors, flashing quite the pleasing expression. "No, no, it is what fellows should do. I shall ready the tea for three, then. Will you be coming to the PX with the rest, Maya-sama?" she asks while putting on the gloves, tensing them firmly before again giving soft, mingling palmings to Raiko's arms, eyes appraising the lightning whole.
Maya shakes her head, taking off her glasses. "Cpt Amato and I shall go to the office together later, we shall have lunch there. We've much work to sort through today."
"Is that so? I shall tend to the reports while you're away then. Oh, do you favor any delicacies in particular, Amato-sama?" Fujiwara asks, faintly tapping her fingertips together.
"Anything is plenty," she answers, relenting a nod.
"Well, I shall hope you favor what we have. Until then," she stands firm, saluting and departing.
And for a brief moment, there is only silence. Only the rustle of the lockers closing down, handles veering further in, the eventual fall of the shower on them both, restoring a speck of warmth after such a cold, gray morning.
Once solitude was ascertained, Maya looks to a side while brushing foam off her face, lost staring at the downward threads of lilies coursing through Raiko's neck. "Ahem… Apologies for Fujiwara, she can be rather imposing in her queries."
"It is alright, Maya," she answers, rubbing from her neck and up, facing the downpour with eyes closed.
"I can confirm she prepares quite the fine tea. If her at times cold persona does not bother you, she'll be one good fellow for you."
"…I see," is all she whispers, massaging her shoulders, wincing a bit.
Simply observing, noticing the cracks in the expression. The overhead lights granting some cover along the rising steam. Shrouded in the mist, it would seem as if Raiko were about to dissipate within it, down along the water from the showerhead. If not for the bushes of foam and bubbles, Maya might conclude to be watching but a mirage of olden days.
And despite the curvaceous offerings, her eyes do not lift off those narrowed faintly, off the lethargic gestures to clean and wash the lily hair.
So Maya's hands stop moving as she takes a step, half of it, closer. "Is something the matter, Raiko?"
Inhaling slowly into the billowing mist as both eyes close for a second, Raiko allows shoulders and hands to limply descend. Raising chin onto the shower, its warm hail serving only to upset an already empty stomach, and not due to a lack of breakfast. And then she sniffs the perfume of their shampoo, the veil of vanilla cuddling the towel of steam wrapped tightly around both. Raiko heaves a sigh, hanging her head.
"…Raiko? Oh, are you dizzy after the mock battle?"
"No, it is not that," she slowly says, fingers coiling and untying damp threads of hair and foam over and over. "Everything is sinking in, I suppose. Knowing I was to join Kitanomaru was one thing, but actually partaking in the drills and having those walking the halls return nods rather than venoms was a surprise I did not expect."
"Well, it is comforting for the troop to have someone of your caliber here," Maya nods, coughing a bit as foam invades her mouth. "Urgh…"
The sight gets a rise out of Raiko, both soon end up chuckling and drowning even the shower's echoes.
"It was still quite the surprise," Maya says, wiping her forehead and hair evenly. "Your edge has not dulled even a little."
"…Thanks for the compliment," Raiko nods, smiling wry, cracked at the ends. "The training drills are more aggressive than I thought, which is why I could easily get in gear."
"Ikaruga-sama does favor such forward approaches, even if not as striking as your own. And it is good to see you've maintained your composure throughout the morning as well."
"All thanks to you," she smiles, nodding upwards. "Your lessons have been very helpful to getting accustomed to the leash."
"Siiigh… You truly won't let that matter rest, will you."
"Woof."
"Come on, now," Maya repines, but in chuckles as a hand reaches out, slapping away. She twitches along Raiko, giving a minute bow into the mist, face splashed by water. "O-Oh, apologies. I did it again without thinking… I swear Raiko, there is no odd intentions in-"
"Maya," a soft brush of fingers upon her arm, lifting upwards, tickling the cascading and wet turquoise, guiding Maya to the softer purple eyes glistening, framed in threads of steam. "It is alright, let us not act like rookies… You had said this was a gesture of fellowship, no?"
"Yes, but still, you did not seem to favor it yeste- Eek!" she remains gaping, eyes on the intrusion not fought upon her waist, clinging to it like the veil of moisture.
"And now we're even, no?"
"I suppose…" she nods, edging closer, returning the brushing, cleaning off foam and excess soap, aiding the water slide off the curves. "You do not mind this?"
"You said this was a show of trust between us? Then… let it be, Maya," Raiko sighs, lost in charming whirlpools, hands roving to return the washing pleasantries. "If you'd extend such gestures my way, I've no intent to refuse them."
A smile is shared, although fingertips soon glide up to nuzzle the lily hair, still soft even if not fluffy, equally so the others to the turquoise threads. For a moment only, as both cough and nod, halting the breach of personal space.
"Apologies, Raiko. It's been so long since I had anyone to lower my guard around here, I simply can't restrain myself." Even sleeping well my mind strolls on its own at times, trying to flee this cold cage falling all over me.
"Oh? Is Fujiwara not a fellow of yours?"
"Yes, but she hasn't been for long. Much it took for her to welcome my words without hidden daggers lunging forth. Our talks of late simply have accustomed me to sharing time with you, and it may be why," she looks away, toying with her hair, "I let my mind wander so when around you. Again, I apologize for my stares and touches. I assure you, they do not- Eek! R-Raiko!"
"Hahaha… Come now, Maya. I said it was fine, I do want us to be close fellows again. And… I must admit, my mind does wander at times into those… charming whirlpools… Siiigh. It sets me at ease, your earnestness. If you favor such gestures, I shan't repine. We are no blushing greenhorns."
"I, yes, you're correct,"she nods, both resume their final washing brushes. Maya's hands linger by stomach, poking at the belly button as she looks at Raiko as she closes her own shower. "So you get lost in 'charming whirlpools'?"
Lips purse, a sigh is heaved, Raiko leans onto the wall as she squeezes excess dampness off her hair. "You're a familiar presence, I know you speak no lies to me. That is why I lower my guard, why I welcome your gestures. And I can certainly praise your charms without it giving me pause," she affirms, hands wringing small rivers off the long lily waterfall.
Maya also closes her shower, yet still feels the sting of warm bullets all over. "I see… Perhaps I am much the same."
"Oh?"
"What? I can praise your charms without it giving me pause, either," Maya smiles small, giving a soft brush to Raiko's shoulder, causing both the chuckle. "But truly, thanks for your shows of fellowship during these days. I did not intend to have you aiding my clerical duties…"
"Please, it is nothing. Fellows support each other, no?" she says, smiling.
"It should have always been like this… And worry not, Fujiwara will soon also see you as a fellow."
"So long as she doesn't begin slapping at me with you, I welcome the notion," Raiko jests while rolling her hips softly against Maya's.
Whose eyes wander, hands halting their purpose and almost slipping, before she sighs and turns away, halfway. "Forgive her curiosity, she is rather devious with her wordings."
"I've noticed, and honestly… I do not mind her curiosity befalling me. So is there anything I may help you with today? It seems you words on Ikaruga-sama's antics were no jest."
"Sigh… Indeed. Do you have the time today? You were wanting to take little Fujikagi to that sushi shop again, no?"
"Oh, you remember that?"
"Well, you seemed pleased when speaking of it…"
"I see. Yes, I was planning on that later by the afternoon. Would you like to join us, Maya?"
"I wouldn't want to impose."
"No, no, I'm offering. Four shoulders are better fit to tackle the reports, no? I can lend a hand with the slumbering mails in wait."
"Pfft… Why must you remember that? I said it only because I was upset, it is normal for mails to take some time."
"I know, but between stashing copies of each report, delivering them in person and then ensuring the digital databases are updated I understand and share your grievances. It is hard to always stay on top of everything if the rest will languish given the chance…"
"You took the words off my lips. I don't see why the rest think staying deep into the night would be a boon to their performance when they barely make ends meet…"
"And then we must endure dining meetings in a shallow bar, no? Compared to that, spending some time with you would resemble heavenly bliss," Raiko smiles, shaking her head and cascading her hair freely down her back.
Water slaps at Maya from the shake, yet her eyes remain on the misty lilies shining under the torrent. She finds herself giggling, sighing relaxation and also shaking her head, turning off the shower.
"Then I shall accept your invitation. Let us hope there are small amounts of mackerel or natto rolls today," she offers with a smile, wiping her face.
Raiko chuckles as she squeezes excess water off her hair. "Please, make it so. You've no idea how arduous it was to placate his complains…"
"I can picture, in crystal clarity actually…" Maya's hands slow down, her eyes descend to the moist tiles while walking to the locker. "Perhaps he complained much, pouting immovable from his position. Did you have to posit a trade to him from your sushi to have him eat?"
"Yes, precisely," Raiko shakes her head with a smile, strolling away from the veil of mist, taking in a deep breath of that thread of vanilla. "In any case, I'll be a pleasure to share dinner with you today, Maya."
"No, the pleasure is all mine. And thank you again for lending a hand with my office duties."
"Come now, I'm returning your tutoring. It is thanks to you I'm adapting nicely into Kitanomaru," Raiko nods, wrapping a towel around her, noticing Maya was staring as she also began drying herself. "Is something the matter?"
"No, I was wondering if you were again going to mention being a dog."
"Well, I suppose you would know better how I'm progressing in my ostensible turn into Ikaruga-sama's loyal dog," she says, letting visible air out softly while sitting, drying. Maya rolls her eyes, soon finding them fixed onto the loose, unformed waterfall of lilies cloaked by vanilla. Raiko again notices the stare, yet faces it fully and nods. "So what may I help you with today, my fellow?"
"Hm? Oh, right. There's some tactics I think we should review, so that Ikaruga-sama doesn't take you by surprise. We can deliver what papers are completed before we leave for dinner, if Fujiwara does lend us a hand as well." Which she seems even more eager to do since you've been joining me in the office…
"Worry not, Maya. My veneer won't lose luster, even if I must faithfully serve Ikaruga-sama as of now. But I can tell," she stashes the towel, idling her undergarments on her hands to look Maya dead in the eye, "something else is on your mind at the moment."
Dropping the towel when opening her locker, Maya turns, her sight flees into the rows of clothing. "What makes you think so?"
"Your eyes have wandered more than usual today," …not that I mind much, "and your focus was off during battle as well. I can tell I've lost some precision in my shooting, and you did not capitalize on those openings. You can rely on me, Maya," Raiko nods as she sits, serving herself a slice of modesty.
Maya sighs, deflating upon the bench and mirroring the movements in front. "Was I that obvious?"
"You're always focused to a fault, so repeated moments of blur are odd in you. Feeling sick, perhaps?"
"It may be so, yes," if heartache counts, that is.
"…Could this cloud our future's smile?"
"H-Huh?"
"…If left isolated, even the mightiest blossom will wither. Rather than leave it festering inside or discarding it altogether, as you know, I choose to despair after I perish. So I'm merely asking, if you would need a hand or an ear. I am here, Maya."
"Well…" hands claw at knees when slipping the pants up, languidly grabbing at the undershirt and powerlessly struggling to poke her head through it. When seeing again, the diversion was ineffective since Raiko was now fully changed and sitting right besides. So Maya sighs, a hand skirting closer to Raiko, gently then wrapped by a gloved one. "Let's say there's something troubling Her Highness…"
"…Hmm. Regarding issues within the castle or…"
"Old issues," she says, clutching the hand, staring into the starlight for eyes, taking a moment of pause. "I would always favor her own designs, yes… but I fear that if she chooses to follow her plans, perhaps, it shall end as it did before for us… with most blades broken and our hearts doubly so."
"I see… I assume, this has to do with Meiya-sama's trial, the role she should take on afterwards?" she asks, Maya nods, causing Raiko's mouth to dry and her sight to take an emergency landing. "I suppose then it is a matter of finding the best… compromise?"
"Hm? You are not against the notion?"
"Please, Maya. No need for such words, is it? I've been trying to return your fellowship."
"No, don't misunderstand, it wasn't a slight. It's merely…" looking down, she sighs again. "It's merely that I thought you had chosen to move past those days."
"There are plentiful spoils to follow that road, yes, I admit. But to be honest…" she grips Maya's hand, seeking, sinking into those whirlpools. "To be honest, I am not yet certain my old methods should remain buried or merely sheathed. What do you think?"
"Well, I admit that while I did not favor it much, perhaps… there are some merits to leave you sheathed, if you remain cooperational as you've been."
"I will, I swear," she whispers, nodding down. "I will bend the knee when you deem appropriate, Maya. So, um," fingertips poke, climb up the arm, rustling it, "how exactly should I be employed as a sheathe?" she asks, holding her breath.
Maya looks into quivering eyes, the mist vanishing to reveal the flimsy, porcelain complexion. As charming as it is, equally so as fragile. Thunders never had need to hide atop clouds, at least Maya cannot remember an occasion when such happened. So she moves a hand forward, palming a thigh but nodding in sobriety.
"…You swear to aid me in these woes, even if what I may tell you will be shocking?"
"Yes."
"This may compromise your standing, Raiko. I admit, I… am rather tempted to dismiss this all as a coincidence, to await further reports." Even if I know not what Mion and Shion could do in front of Takeru, more so if he were to grow adusted in front of possible anger at the 'dead man'. "We've been working side by side for some time now, and for this matter to come to our notice so. More's the pity…"
"Maya," Raiko places a hand atop the one resting on her thigh, eyes closed as she bows briefly. "If I wished to bury my past, I would have done so already. I concur, to work side by side with you as we have been is… pleasant, very much. I know not what you speak of, yes, but if I could be of use as back then, but without losing our fellowship then…"
"I… did not realize you coveted your old role so."
"It is not necessarily that which I miss. I simply…" she looks up, touching the base of her neck, "cannot truly surrender to the leash, as foolish as it is from me. Even if I must remain rooted in duty, my eyes still long for the skies. So, if you would favor it, I am willing to hear your woes and aid you however I can."
Maya holds the stare, lips curling into a small smile, taking in a breath of calming vanilla, edging closer then. "You will defer to my judgment on what arrangements shall follow?" she asks, a nod immediately returned. "Regardless of what we end doing, you shan't incite arguments?" she asks, Raiko promptly shakes her head. "And you will act in alignment with me, if I were to wish to… hide those broken blades forevermore?"
"Hide, not bury?"
"Yes. I know that… your past could be used against you were this to come to light. I can promise to shield you to the best of my abilities, if you lend me your strength. But I need you to bend the knee alongside me, lest Her Highness won't welcome either of our words."
"Wait, not even yours can placate her?"
"Siiigh… You know there are only a few things which can tame blue, wild embers. Mana and I are unable to quell the burning."
"I see… Say less, then," Raiko nods, standing then genuflecting for effect, nodding up at Maya's shocked stare. "Tell me, Maya. How can I be of service?"
"Please, stand," Maya insists, gripping Raiko's hand, raising alongside her. "We are equals, Raiko. And thank you, truly."
"Say less," she whispers, not ending the handshake as she smiles into the whirlpools, charmed. "Tell me, what should I do for you?"
"Well… Please, remain calm at what I'm about to tell you. This is a grave matter, and the decision Yuuhi-sama has reached is… unexpected to say the least," Maya sighs, smiling at the comforting pats Raiko offers to a shoulder, smiling brighter upon the earnest glow of the moon.
"You've my word, I shan't lose my composure," she says, nodding firmly.
…And sadly, said word was broken upon the report, unexpected, which collapses the floor all around her. Much like Maya had been, Raiko too feels insides grow hollow by the end of the talk. And yet what sparks she gives off are amplified by the moonlight, joining in a small smile.
Giving teasing, playful slaps to each other's lower backs they depart the changing room, Maya calling Fujiwara to notify a change in the schedule, Raiko the same towards Fujikagi's short break. Both direct themselves quickly into the castle, having the luck to find Mana on the way to join them.
And receiving a small giggle from a humble shadow, a short, staring nod which kills sparks cold when informing the trio that the designs of the Shogun were already in motion. But that he wouldn't stop them from trying to placate embers, opening the gates and granting entrance.
Outside, it was still cloudy. Inside as well, ostensibly in appearance. For eyes grow narrow and piercing, unblinking upon the intrusion of the trio, soon to be charred down to ash. All the while, a humble and small shadow giggles sleepily at the cinders flying about.
"Yasomaga, could you kindly stop laughing?"
"Apologies, Your Highness. But perhaps it would be for the best to let this rest?" he suggests with a whisper to her ear. "I doubt any of them brought such concerns with malice," he smiles at them, Mana and Maya leaving their sights in burial, Raiko glaring thunders at him.
"What do you suggest then?"
"Well, it is nothing a soothing session of hypnotherapy cannot mend, no?"
"Hmm. Indeed, you're correct. You three, I assume you've heard. Go to your orders, and take care to not let this repeat itself," she warns, glaring further upon the raising signs of dissidence. "Tsuhi, please oversee their session is fruitful and that it goes unnoticed," she orders to a slow but sharp salute.
Under the harsh sunlight, all they can do is nod their head down, tightening their fists as that sleepy chuckling resumes and trails their steps to the medbay. Sharing glances with Raiko's downcast collapse, Maya finally understands what how it feels, the unforgiving pull of the leash.
Around the same time…
Beeps and shuffles of papers follow each other close, a chair whirs. Standing quick she reaches out for her cup, pouring more coffee to aid in the calcs that had spawned out of one certain stack delivered shortly to her hands. Kouzuki sighs, rubbing her forehead in tender, slow circles while drinking before a knocking disturbs the mechanical chorus within her office.
"Come in," she says, sitting while unlock the door.
Pyatkh steps into the room, letting the man behind her entrance as well, and with a hasty bow she then departs. From beyond the frame, Isumi and Hayase were in attention and returning a salute. The scientist returns a subtle nod before the door closes, although she does not lock it. Her sight does lock onto the visitor, much like a good rifle does against BETA.
"Good afternoon, Professor. Beautiful as ever, I see," Yoroi offers as he takes off his fedora while bowing, smiling small as ever.
"Chief, take a seat. We have quite many matters to discuss, it seems."
"Oh, indeed we do! I brought you some nice intel today."
"What?" Out of the blue like this?
"Did you know that a new restaurant opened in the golden district in Tokyo? Their sushi is simply marvelous."
A brow twitches, Kouzuki slowly inhales as she rests the cup. "Chief Yoroi, could you cut the crap today? I am not in the mood to waste time today."
"Oh? I thought you liked sushi. And here I was thinking that we could have a pleasant talk about food," he fakes a puppy dog look, slowly raising a hand to wipe away a non-existent tear from his dry cheek.
"You do realize Isumi and Hayase are at the ready a few meters from you, right?"
"Come on, can you not humor me for a moment?" he asks, resting his chin atop interlocked hands, swaying his head to the tune of the beeps of the computers. "It seems that this establishment is truly garnering a favorable reputation, thanks to its delectable Golden Rolls and exquisite new blend of tea. It is one nice place to visit on days like this one, where even a snake's heart would find solace. Although, some of my acquaintances said they were worried about someone who had already become a regular at this sushi shop in the Capital as of late."
"Oh, really? What is it with that regular?" she asks while sinking back onto the chair, barely lifting the rim to the mouth as she continues to stare cold.
"You see, he was truly upset that the new business wasn't as favored by others, that the rest preferred to go to the rotating kind of establishments. He often said that practice was against the spirit of sushi, that has to be eaten as it's served," he nods slow, tipping his hat.
"You don't say. So that regular was upset people weren't following the traditions? Quite the tantrum for a grown man."
"No, he was upset that everyone seemed to think rotating sushi bars were the only alternative left for the business to flourish, all to please the foreigners who saw traditional sushi bars as boring and bare-bones," he couldn't hide the acid again despite the smile never leaving. "I do agree to some extent with the proposition, waiting until the right sushi reaches my seat only to see it taken away by someone else is truly infuriating, won't you agree?"
"If I want something, I go and get it myself. If the rotary equipment has a determined serving place, I'd sit near it to not have to wait. Complaining about the system in such a way is truly childish," Kouzuki barely answers, leaning onto a palm while rolling her eyes, very slowly and very wide.
Yoroi grimaces for half a second before returning a smile. "Well, I rather keep my inner child alive for as long as I can," he chuckles heartily, looking undaunted by the glare. "Also, one could end up eating more than what one plans to in the rotary sushi bars. Temptation is a cruel, bewitching mistress after all."
"…So, what does this has to do with Alt IV?" Hurry up and get to the damn point.
He coughs, sobering up. "As I was saying, these regulars were very upset, I'll have you know. However, as sudden as a May affair, most of their movements were halted and I haven't heard them complaining as much as they used to. Ever since a few odd days ago, actually."
"…What do you mean?"
"So you were not involved in that negotiation?" Yoroi immediately raises his hands, regaining that small, insufferable smile when Kouzuki frowns more scalding than the coffee, about to rain on him much like the weather outside. "Please don't shoot the messenger. I'm merely passing the question to you."
Sighing hard, she spins slowly to brush the pungency away and then scoffs. "I honestly do not have any idea of what you speak. I believe I've reported most of my actions of late to the council, if that is what concerns you?"
"No, no, it is not that…"
"I did not intervene nor block the negotiations to cage the pigeons, either, if that is your accusation of the day."
"Not directly, at the least. It seems a few have been shaken by the sudden appearance of natto rolls in the menu, lately," he says, tipping his hat again while crossing a leg.
Kouzuki blinks, eyes squinting and rebounding away, to no avail nor answer but a 404. "What?"
"So it truly wasn't you?" he asks, in full sobriety. Grim features cloud further upon Yuuko's instantaneous and blazing nod in vexation. "If so then, why?" Why would the order to strike have been lifted? Her Highness wasn't aware of it until Tsukuyomi left this base, then, who reported his presence and deterred Sakaki?
"Chief, could you stop with the tripwires? What has this to do with anything I've asked of you?" Kouzuki demands, making noise with a certain drawer on purpose.
It spurs the agent to a proper sitting posture, not regaining his usual smile. "Well… the presence of your new ace has been noticed."
"I figured, considering the delay on the proposal I asked of you. So, what is it? Will his profiles be fixed?"
"I wonder. Is he truly Shirogane Takeru?"
"Of course, I can confirm it."
"Oho, can you now? From one to ten, how likely do you believe him to be who he claims?"
"…Is this your way of saying legal actions will be taken, then?" she asks, a finger slithering to the keyboard prompts.
"Well, let us not jump to conclusions," he hastily waves a blur, chuckling cracked. "You see, I was merely told to tread carefully."
"Will his profile be mended or not? I want answers, Chief."
"Hahaha… What a cruel rose you are, Professor. Certainly, such an oddity deserves more than a passing glance?"
"Not like you aren't the one passing around folders."
"Well, that is true, yet one cannot deny that a small spark is all that's required at times to start a fire."
"…Should I invite the Valkyries to this little chat, hmm?" she warns, cold, sitting straight as she aims for the keyboard.
"Come on, now… I am merely trying to warn you, in my own way."
"So you're saying Shirogane warrants such concerns?"
"Oh, but it would seem you already thought so?" he raises a brow, a hand on his chin as he leans forward, smiling like a clown, playing his part to the tune.
Whose tune, that's the matter, Yuuko asserts, frowning as she leans back, palming the armrest. "Please, anyone could see where this was going. The mystery regular is either Sakaki or Sagiri. Both are already aware of Ayamine's presence here, and I doubt either cares enough about her, Tamase, our Sakaki, or your daughter. And there's no way either would try anything against Mitsurugi. So, if your own scouts say this regular suddenly grew cautious out of nowhere due to the final arrangements for the CCSE, I suppose someone whispered Shirogane's name, and that has something to do with this newfound over-caution?"
"…You know, as of late I've been unable to surprise people with my reports," he once more laments, bringing his hat to his chest, expression falling to pieces. Almost to the verge of tears. Almost, because no tears is he willing to shed.
Yuuko simply scoffs, smirking while spinning. "Are you losing your edge, Chief?"
"No, no… My edge is always more than ready to serve, XO," he tells, hiding eyes under the fedora as he stands, the sharp smirk walking closer to the desk.
"…So you finally decide to stop playing. What is your real reason to be here? Did Her Highness refuse my petition to mend the profiles?" It would make sense, despite my offerings, if he was a Guard in this world. If he stood by Kagami to the very end and died in the hive, however, he cannot be who I think… Shirogane isn't telling me something about himself, this reaction from Yoroi wouldn't come for a no-name soldier.
After moments of silence, the Chief sighs and shakes his head, wincing slightly. "No, so long as Alt IV is successful, I believe the Shogun would favor anything you ask of her. That is why I ask, is this cadet truly Shirogane Takeru?"
"…Perhaps you could enlighten me on the motives why you doubt his identity? I am his legal tutor, for your information."
"Please Professor, do not make this more difficult. You are a wise woman, you know when to fold."
"Exactly. And I plan to hold. Should I assume I'll need further proof to prove his identity then?"
"Siiigh… Precisely. Could you tell me what has he revealed about himself?"
"And if I refuse?"
"Professor, please. I am doing this for your safety, and this time it is no jest," Yoroi says, softly, placing the fedora onto his chest as he gives a bow.
And leaves Yuuko wide eyed and gaping for a moment too long, needing to rearrange her sitting posture. "What does that even- Is the Shogunate coming after Shirogane?"
"You certainly did not expect a dead man would simply be accepted back to the living without repercussions, did you?"
"He is not dead. I forwarded what documentation I could muster. Isn't that enough?"
"I believe you already know what I speak of. But I'll cut to the chase," he straightens his suit, undaunted steel meeting the Professor's gaze, "you could send Shirogane to the Capital and let him defend his own case."
"…I am not going to send my protegee to the wolves in such manner."
"Oh, please. A lonely soldier found unconscious with no ties that can be found, mysteriously returning from Death's door as a UN cadet. The horror tale practically writes itself," he once more lets out a chuckle, that stops short as Kouzuki begins to, very slowly, tap her papers while glaring. "Well, anyone would be shocked to see a dead mean walking again," he deadpans, nodding a few times.
"So the Shogunate believes him to be dead, and wants to… off him, perhaps? You should know better than to strike at my pawns, Chief," she warns, standing to finish the coffee.
But then his expression grows tense as if he had a gun pointed at him, holding the barrel. Cough dryly, he again tips his hat. "You did not tamper with the CCSE's plans, then?"
"No, I believe the cadets to be able to surpass the setbacks offered." And Shirogane already lived through this trial many times over. If he could overcome a chaser squadron as a civilian, there is no reason to warn him now that he's a vet. "Is this your way of telling me repercussions will follow if he does not suffer a convenient accident?"
"Oh, no, do not misunderstand, please. I am being honest, this is for your own sake, Professor. Shirogane Takeru is… not someone you should associate your project with," he says, sighing hard, all energy snapping away as he collapses onto a sofa.
"Explain yourself. Now," she demands, fingers speeding to the keyboard in record time.
"Haha, please don't look so angry. You'll ruin your beauty."
"Chief, you have ten seconds to explain yourself before I call for the Valkyries."
"Please don't shoot the messenger, I am merely doing my best to protect you."
"His eyes are not wandering, his lips are relaxed… He's telling the truth?" and along the realization she nods, slowly.
Chief Yoroi slowly taps his chin, crossing a leg again. "You see… I couldn't find why, how, or when he lost his life, there were no records of anything regarding Shirogane Takeru's life. I also couldn't find any data on when or why he left the Empire, nothing on this supposed accident he had, no ties to anyone, nothing at all in his profiles. Not even the name of his parents appeared."
"Hmm. So the same results as me… I suppose, the Shogunate cannot let such an irregularity go unnoticed, more now that they know he has that weird sword."
"However, since we lack so much intel, there is a possibility that this cadet is merely impersonating Shirogane Takeru. In any case, I believe it would be in your best interests to either hand over Shirogane to the authorities or send him to the Capital to resolve this matter of the missing info in the databases."
"As his current legal tutor, I wish to know about these matters that might trouble the life of my protegee."
"Are you not even a bit curious on why 1st Lt Tsukuyomi has approached the cadet a few times during his short stay here?" Yoroi asks, giving a sideglance to gauge the reaction. Kouzuki gives a bored glance, holding the stare, and so he slowly continues. "If you would keep a secret, Shirogane Takeru, the real one, was actually… a member of the Imperial Royal Guard while he was alive."
"Hmm."
"You… do not seem very surprised."
"If you had to deal with the mess known as Shirogane on a daily basis, you'd know your claim is hardly believable," she complains, rolling her eyes and landing on a tray of food Yashiro had forced onto her earlier. She can practically hear the 'Take care of your health' in the background.
But she cannot, because Yoroi gives a hearty chuckle, patting a knee a few times. "Indeed… he seems to be a rather relaxed fellow, isn't he." He stops, entwines his fingers tight, then fires off another stare. "That is, if he hadn't died already. Someone might be replacing him, trying to impair your relations with the Empire. This cadet cannot be trusted until this has been clarified. I do not know how he approached you nor what his records say of his past, but you should send this Shirogane to the Capital as soon as you can, so that we can confirm whether or not he truly is who he claims to be."
"Have you forgotten I have Yashiro with me? She already has confirmed he is no threat to me."
"Well, he might be under hypnosis or mind control. He might not even be aware of it himself, like the people the cyborg took care of during his time here."
So now you're saying Shirogane works for those bastards… It seems your forewarning was not exactly correct, this is more than I expected. "I can assure you he is who he says he is, Shirogane follows my orders to the letter," she says, nodding. One of Yoroi's brows twitched for a second. "Could you stop meandering and tell me what you came here to?"
"…I was notified he had many discussions with Mitsurugi Meiya-sama. Do you know happen to know why?"
"Siiigh… No, they were arguing like they usually do. She does challenge him to many fights, due to how good his swordplay is. And I told you Yashiro already confirmed he is not a dangerous element."
"Even so, this error in the databases has to be addressed," he deadpans me as he closes his eyes. "You of all people wouldn't place your hands above fire over one simple trainee."
"Exactly, and you should know better than to strike at my men, Chief. Out with it, who sent you after Shirogane and why?"
"Know that I did my best to deter you from learning of this, Professor," he says, giving a humble bow and grimacing, as if stabbed right in the gut by a rusty blade that got stuck. "As you should know, 1st Lt Tsukuyomi is back at the Capital preparing the paperwork for the delivery of one certain machine should the cadets finish their course. It seems what kept the favor you asked of me stuck was sent the way it came due to her reports. She herself relayed the wishes of the Shogun, for you to relinquish the cadet to the authorities."
"…Pardon?"
"I was told he had one heirloom on his possession, and nothing else. The Koubuin fellowship… is formally requesting you to hand over cadet Shirogane Takeru, under claims of identity theft. They do not wish to let this matter escalate and be noticed, so I would favor your cooperation on this."
Gulping raw ice, Kouzuki leans forward, slowly, in silence. Resting her chin on a hand, unblinking. "Shirogane told me of this. He is willing to return this item posthaste."
"This is no longer about that heirloom, whatever it is," Yoroi says, sighing as he takes off his hat and stands. "If you are not willing to hand him over, know that the Guards will try and interrogate the cadet once he returns from the CCSE. This is why I advise you to disassociate yourself from him."
"…I see. I suppose, then, that is it up to Shirogane to prove his identity then."
"Wh- Professor, do not jest, please. Are you saying he…"
"I've been saying that since the start, Chief. Shirogane Takeru is very much alive, and partaking in the CCSE as of now. So if you'd kindly drop the threats, we have yet to touch on the proposal for the railgun project to-"
"Shirogane is truly alive?" he asks, paling more than young Yashiro. Words even softer, almost inaudible as his knees and joints turn to jelly.
"Yes, that is what I've been saying all this time. Is something… the matter?"
Yoroi blinks, lips weaving words in vain and waddle about like a fifth leg on a table. He then hides under the hat, inhaling slowly. "Did you warn him of the dangers that lurk in there?"
"You know I cannot show favoritism to anyone, Chief. If you are accusing me of-"
"No, that is not it. However, the few… rumors I heard regarding Shirogane's life make me believe that might have been a… mistake on your part."
"And I assume you won't divulge what this entails?"
"…Would you accept to arrange a meeting with the cadet once he returns from the CCSE?"
I was planning to, but oh well, "If and only if, his safety is assured. I chose him to come here, I've yet to exploit his full potential, you see. We can debate the matter, so long as his life is spared." Hell, I'll accept the XFJ Project proposal if it makes them happy enough.
"I see. I am willing to speak within my boundaries then, but I do advise you to tread carefully. Let's hope the mountain is not sliced in twain…"
"What?"
"Do not mind me, it is just a figure of speech… Now then, where to begin… Well, the beginning seems most appropriate."
"Oh, you don't say?"
"Haha, ever the cruel rose, Professor. In any case, the Shogun took such a drastic action because Shirogane Takeru was actually once a vassal of her fellowship, you see. As his report detailed, his passing in Lucifer was a low blow to many of his fellows, it seems," he says, a hand flattening his coat a few times.
Kouzuki stops typing, fingers still clenched in midair. "…In Lucifer? Did he not suffer an accident before that?" He said this world's him defended Kagami within the Yokohama Hive, didn't he?
"Oh?" Yoroi's face tightens, the hand over his heart does too. "Is that what this cadet claims?"
"…He said his memory isn't all that clear, but that he was in grave pain, the whole world an amorphous stain of red and black. What he disclosed, according to his records, were nightmares resembling what other civilians and soldiers have described after their encounters with BETA. I assumed, he was injured gravely during the Fall of Yokohama. He confirmed to be from this area, after all."
"He… did? Can he truly confirm that?"
"Yes, he even told me where his house was. I've some pictures here, give me a moment," she says, spinning away to the shelves. Returning and flashing the items in question leaves gaping holes in Yoroi's composure in equal measure to the desolation of the images.
"…I see. Most curious," he says, again tipping his hat down. "Would there be any other things you would favor telling? I can… attempt to lessen the aggravations that will befall the cadet, if you and he are willing to cooperate?"
"If you begin to talk, perhaps. You seemed distraught that Shirogane was alive and taking the CCSE. Why? Someone sent a request after his neck, hmm?" she asks, frowning.
He does not raise his posture. "…What I worry for is the opposite, Vice Commander. If he truly is Shirogane Takeru, I can only pity what fate shall fall upon those foolish enough to try and attack him."
"…You say this despite him being a cadet?"
"I have… heard rumors. If you had seen Shirogane fight at his full potential then you, too, would comprehend my apprehension," Yoroi says, sighing his lungs out and finally taking a sip of an already cold drink, emptying it in one go and relaxing fully into the sofa. "Maya-sama is as fearsome as she's beautiful, Raiko-sama as deadly as she's charming, Mana-sama can be as blazing as she can be sweet, even Her Highness possess that same glint behind the bright elegance. And the Shirogane I knew, just as bright as his affection was the darkness of his cruelty."
And along the beeps and fans, neither says a thing. Both recalling similar, albeit starkly different moments. While Yoroi sank into a grayness befitting of his attire while appreciating the gently burn of the coffee only the XO could prepare, he had chosen to remain silent and wait, give a breather to the tense talk.
Allowing the scrambled ripple to go unnoticed, as Isumi's words echo in Yuuko's ears.
The readings flash in her eyes, the radar too, the images of the battlefield that was left of Niigata.
A pair of bunny ears too, and Shirogane's own crying expression when she had threatened his life in this same office.
For the first time since October 22nd of the current year, Kouzuki Yuuko found herself mirroring her own research as one could see blue flooding her eyes and entire body, that so subtly begins to shake.
Too little, too late.
[Recommended Music: Yubel, Yu-Gi-Oh! GX Sound Duel.]
Back in a stormy tropical island, close to a raging river…
"Raven One to Three and Six, do you copy?" a gruff voice asks the comms, walking, almost limping, back to the trees.
"Loud and clear, sire."
"Aye, captain?"
"The pigeons got away. They should be running in your general direction. Move out to intercept, neutralize them as necessary."
"Roger!" and so, the connection is cut.
"Damn, we could have attained the entire reward for ourselves if you hadn't backed out at the last second…" the young 2IC protests, roughly kicking at a tree and splashing them both in more storm.
"Cool your head, Shinohara. This is a UN-led task, your status won't shield you from repercussions."
"Heh, I think you still underestimate the reach of my fellows, Cpt Nanase," he says, cracking his knuckles and a smirk. "Perhaps a small refresher is in orde- Huh?" his eyes twitch and snap open, seeing the cadet previously thought to have been beaten unconscious sluggishly raise back to his feet. "Persistent dastard, I'll recognize it," a cocky, quite foolish, smile raises again just like the barrel was towards that face before it's blocked by his superior's backside. "Captain? What are you doing?"
"I just told you, excessive force will have us under the scope," Nanase shakes his head, sighing dry and gray as the tempest dancing around. "And as for you, kid… I won't tell you to clear the murderous glint off ya face, but think twice before you throw away your life. It ain't worth your health, this job."
"…Who sent you after us?" in contrast to the effervescent speed of the winds the words, not so much the eyes.
"As I said, we are part of the CCSE. This is all simply part of the test," Nanase shrugs, belatedly stepping forward, one leg barely raising through the pools of muck and leaves. "Welcome to the military, Shirogane."
"Yeah, right… Test my ass, if I hadn't shielded my comrade she'd have a nice wound right in the head."
Taking a momentary glance at the twitching stain on the cadet's shoulder sends Nanase's glare to his underling, who scoffs and looks away, smirking twisted and dirty as the nearby stream. Nanase lets a sigh be swallowed when gripping his weapon again. "Raise your arms, kid. Don't be a fool."
"Didn't knew the UN allowed this kinda beatings to its cadets… You sure you're part of this trial?"
"I said as much."
"Heh… Think you'll truly get away with trying to harm my squadmates? You do know who they are, at least?"
"You won't get any answers out of us. Again, we are authorized to use force if you will not surrender," he insists, raising the barrel and his finger to the trigger.
"Excuse me, Captain," Shinohara slowly approaches, in a lax posture and waving his armament about in Shirogane's direction, "surely you haven't forgotten that our task is to eliminate the infiltrators, have you?"
"…And this guy is done for. No need to mess him up more than necessary."
"We had a talk about this before the briefing, did we not?" he slowly asks, the verbal and actual gun aiming at a new target. "And this cadet seems to think we are rotten, we cannot ignore such a threat."
"I know, however, your fellows won't come to our aid this time. You've no idea who we're dealing with, kid." Anyone can see we're but puppets as of now, even you. No sane person would dare lift a finger against that mad fox's pawns.
"My, oh my… I had thought some camaraderie was sown between us since my appointment to your squadron. Such a shame," he cackles along the shaky treetops, unlike them Shinohara seems to enjoy the quake above and in his superior's complexion. Before shifting into bracing just as fast and venomous as the nearby river, the nearby movements. "Halt! One more step and you're dead!"
"I told you," Nanase lifts a hand, forcefully lowering the barrel and shaking his head, "we are not maiming this guy. Read the board. And the same for you, kid. You got guts to stand again, but that's all you can do. Give it up."
"…Fuck off," he rasps, the incoming gust almost tackling him back to the mud.
Nanase rolls his eyes as Shinohara clicks his tongue, cursing under the wild winds. Throwing a gaze to ensure the 2IC isn't doing anything stupid, the Captain faces Shirogane, firmly. "Believe me, kid. Being an Eishi ain't all that the TV shows off. All the glory hunting is nice and whatever, but at the end of the day we're just meatshields."
"And you think- Cough! t-that I don't know that?" I know how rotten you attack dogs truly can get… I still remember those words, like I could ever forget.
"…Be reasonable about this. One move more, and we will have to rough you up. This job isn't worth your neck, is it?" he asks, the all-encompassing drizzle would resemble a broken tap in front of the bracing, the glint in those eyes. Those sharp, lightless eyes. "Is it one of those girls? You got the hots for them or something?"
"Ha!" Shinohara chuckles, kicking at a tree, giving a small shriek when a bug falls right on his face. "Shit… Heh, anyways, that's plainly retarded. Don't tell me an outsider truly thought one of us would fall low enough to mingle with them? Well, some of those wenches would only be fit as comfort corporals in our ranks, so I can understand the-"
"One more word and you're dead, dog."
"What did you- Uwah!" Shinohara stumbles back, blazing at the blunted spot in the tree, at the rock throw his way, the combusting stare clashing with his own. "How dare… You damn baseborn piece of-"
"Shinohara, shut it."
"You are not going to let this offense slide, are you Captain?"
"…You are aware of who belongs to the squad, I don't want word of you calling any of the pigeons that again, you hear me?! Good, now… this is the last offer, Shirogane Takeshi," Nanase whirls back, gripping his own gun back to proper form, almost a mirror of Shirogane's own.
"And they even fuck up my name, too. So they're read in onto me… If their words were not a coincidence, then this is a mirror to that incident and they're from-"
"Raise your arms or else," the Captain demands upon the grim silence, finding no change and a rather welcoming tint to the tempest in the cadet's features. A heavy sigh leaves then, every drop of water suddenly weighing on his shoulders a bit more. "Do you know how many couples I've seen break in my days? Tons. Those girls might be nice and flirty with you now, but that's because you're the only male around. It's all vanity. The second you're injured in battle they'll throw you away." Their 'real love' ends up in a crying mess at the first loud sound resembling an explosion, meanwhile they're warming a bunk with a new hunk in the barracks. Lions for lambs, all the fucking time. The fallout's even worse when they sway for the same side.
"You better watch your mouth…"
"Heh, look at the boy, trying to be brave… Even so, you don't have to go so far," Shinohara shrugs, grabbing the rock thrown before and juggling it a bit. "I bet I could approach his chosen and charm her to my arms with some mere words on my House's exploits I've partook in. There is nothing a baseborn outsider could offer compared to us true Japanese fellows. Even you could have them wrapped around your finger with ease if you fancy any," he chuckles, elbowing Nanase a few times softly.
Who frowns and wipes his face slowly, gulping through the pit in his stomach, the almost mirrored expression in front. "…Hate away if you want, kid, but that's the harsh truth we live in. Only you can look after yourself, and your superiors and comrades will discard you and move on the second you're no longer useful to the military, to the nation, to humanity or whatever banner we follow now. This is my last warning. Don't be a fool, this war ain't worth your life."
"And yours is?"
"Heh… No, but," Rin's is. Even if I gotta be a lapdog, the least I can do is protect her future, "I've reasons to keep marching."
"…Do you have someone to protect?"
"Yeah. Not a passing affair or an acquaintance, but family,"and when she could have ran away, she stayed by my messed up side. Even to this day, despite everything. "…Don't you have anyone to return to, kid?"
"…Yeah." At least, I'd like to think I still do.
I knew it, the mirror has shown me those eyes plenty of times… "Then trust me, you don't want to join as an Eishi much less for that base. We common folk should steer clear of the top brass' dealings."
"Believe me, it ain't like I wanted to. If it were for me, I wouldn't have returned here…" he gasps, holding both shaking knees. Still bracing, still enduring the gale's pushing and tossing.
"Then, why not surrender?"
"For the same reasons you have, probably," he sighs and chuckles, a heel almost slipping off when trying to stand straight again, leg and sole burning.
"Are we done wasting our time, Captain?" Shinohara asks, spitting the mud and gripping the stone.
"…I suppose we are, huh. Let's get this over with and restrai-"
Beep!
"Hm? Raven One, over."
"Captain! We've found 'em! But they're resisting a little bit too much…" a man gasps through the static, almost exultant yet grimmer than the sky.
"Restrain them as required, without excessive force."
"Excuse my disrespect, sire, however it is unlikely the rest will be able to pacify the pigeons while tempering their blows," a female now whispers, calm in opposition to the storm yet with its fury reloading verbal venom. "Requesting permission to fire freely."
Nanase pinches his nose really, really hard. "Siiigh… You, of all people, should be aware of who they are. My orders still stand."
"Captain, must I remind you of our talk again?" Shinohara fires off, louder to be heard by the comms and glaring at his superior. Looking away.
"You're still the 2IC, and we can't risk any injuries," he retaliates in kind, stomping the mud. One leg is shaking, the heel barely able to depart the ground despite counting with stable footing.
"Our goal should be clear. We cannot allow the pigeons to grow wings," he insists, tightening and raising the fist holding the rock, fully facing his Captain. And leaving his back wide open.
"And I told you, I know their Instructor! We lay one finger on them and the Reaper will be after our necks, to say nothing on what shall follow after. Remember this exercise falls to the UN laws. Remember whose cadets these are, kid," he threatens, poking the chest then pushing back forcefully enough to cause small waves in the puddles. A small glaring ensues between them, forgetting the real target of their aggro.
"Captain, one injured! Four and Five are engaging, and requesting permission to punish the rebels," a male yells, glitchy mess of curses and impacts comes through the comms and the storm.
More glitchy is a pair of eyes upon the words, the feeling within putting the surrounding tempest to bed.
Nanase dries his mouth, still sharing visual burns with his 2IC. "I told you to neutralize them, nothing else."
"Oh, come on! We can even get some nice bags for this, too!"
"If only to complete our task swiftly, I must agree, sire. We've orders to uphold."
"Double pay if you can punish any of them."
"Shinohara!"
"Aren't you forgetting our real goal here, Captain? We must remain unwavering, even if the sakura are tainted red. Furthermore, our comrades are spoiling for the rewards, right?"
"Hell yeah! Come on, Captain, don't be a prude. Let's have some fun. We'll save the one with the glasses for you. Bet those lips work wonders…"
"Damn it all…" Can't you use your actual head to think for once?! There is simply no more dignity in our forces, is there? We're simply going to march and off cadets on demand now?
For a moment, his sister's face would have seemed to flash in his head, the sickening grimace to the implications of how CCSEs would be conducted nowadays. After all, the beatings will continue until results improve or the weak links are purged. Even the discard pile must be exploited for everything it's worth, in service to the dogs and pigs if required. Nanase knew that much. Shinohara as well, even if on the complete opposite of the pendulum going by the slow rocking and licking of his lips.
A shared gaze told it all as Shinohara gently signaled to his insignia, pertaining to the honor he enjoys, the horns regrowing atop his head in threat. As harsh as the rain is the gavel upon Nanase's neck, finally a small shiver of cold shows through his soaked body. Drowning the resistance, compelling a nod. The threads reviving within the hairpin of veins, stiffening his posture and every inch of air in the lungs. Shinohara is the opposite as he begins to lightly chuckle, almost cackle. Yet both neglect their guns, leaving them aiming at the ground during the momentary agreement.
And it is always those precious little details, are they not?
"Captain, do you hear me? Three is already on the move leading the rest, by the way… I know you warned us and all, but those offers were something else!" the glitchy voice tells, in cheer opposing the weather.
And then, silence.
"Fine, we can be gentlemen to the girls but some fun's allowed, eh? I mean, you already got that Shirogane guy done for."
A heavy water splash. Rough impacts and thuds. Hard and short bursts of smacking sounds. Mud envies the rain and splatters about like a madman's piñata.
"…Are you fighting with Shinohara again? Come on… Captain, you can get the draft exemption for your sis with all the money we'll earn from this! No need to keep playing nice for the UN, is there?" And they themselves asked us to lock the pigeon's cage, anyways…
Only the rage of the storm, masking another.
Shaking branches.
Howling winds.
Roaring waves in the river, in the mud, in what atop it now lies.
A thunder echoes, a bolt eventually falls. It pales in comparison to the cackling shocks in the other end of the spectrum, coursing through in opposing direction.
And then, silence.
Nothing else could be heard, besides a distant roaring river or the slapping of the rain.
Luckily, the droplets were merciful to those ears awaiting an answer. Mercy, those in the other side of the comms did not receive such a thing.
Nothing on those arms bent like the poor branches to the gale's whims.
None of the rushing, violent kisses the rain gave to a gasping mouth left ajar into nature's tight embrace.
Not a speck of the further contamination of the puddles from a source which was not the clouds, that even splattered the nearby tree too.
Nothing at all stops the storm or can be discerned through it.
Oh well, I won't be the one opposing the royal officers. Don't get paid enough for that shit. Which means… "Oi, Kurama!" the hurried male asks through the comms.
"It's Raven Three at the moment, you oaf. No changes from my vantage point, over," she says, stinging more than the falling storm through the static.
"Sigh… I know, but guess what? Shinohara has the Captain busy. You know what that means, right?"
As expected, Nanase faltered… Well, my curiosity on that cadet shall have to wait to be sated. "Ravens, we shall proceed to clip the pigeons' wings. Impress me and a bonus may be in your future," she says in unchanging monotone, untying her breath of tension as a chorus of cheers then break through the drenched treetops to tickle the clouds, to the point she did not need the comms to locate the rest.
However, said chorus did not tickle the ears still hearing on the other side of the line which they had left open.
It did not tickle, not one single bit.
A few rising sparks in red, however, do cackle at the thought spurred by said words, and the familiar screams that soon follow them.