Muv-Luv Reversal (Neo New Sawatari Version)

by Zuoriel

A small ripple grows to a wave, washed ashore of Yokohama Base once more. Returning from Extra, Takeru sets out to endure another loop to protect his home and dear ones from causality's whims. Yet soon he'll see things are not the same, receiving no warm welcome from his comrades. Without knowing who is on his side, Takeru must navigate a chaotic tide against the odds. And himself.

16. Scarred Blades

Chapter 15:

Scarred Blades

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In previous chapters: After an accidental meeting with Mana and Meiya by the ruins of his home, Takeru spent the following days in a tense calmness. He wonders if there is more to Mana's attitude that night and if he could somehow keep his Minaru Kamui, but at the moment he is set to depart for the CCSE. Although, Takeru and the Professor still don't see eye to eye on how to handle certain topics and that weighs on his mind as well. At least he and his squad seem to be getting along better than the absolute worst?

Away from Takeru's notice, however, answers to his queries lie unknowingly in wait for him…

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In the same day, back at the break of dawn.

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[Recommended Music: Heaven's Tower, Final Fantasy XI.]

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Gentle drops of sunshine have yet to fall on the Imperial capital. Despite the cold that would have had soldiers in tighter formations, the quiet breeze allows the slow steps to dull the threads not yet in complete attention.

In such a drowsy pace eyelids flutter open, sensing pressure on a shoulder, fluffiness tickling the lips. Setting the one sitting besides straight, belated blinks tire their way out the windows, basking in the clearing sky as the engine vrooms to life and the transport passes the checkpoint into the city.

A bump in the road shakes all fellows within, stirs the accompanying one to wakefulness. Tapping the shoulder and nodding at the long yawn, both simply stare out the window on the way to what most closely resembles home. Simply observing the view sliding through, shoulder to shoulder at the front of the seats.

From the top of their destination, Her Highness the Shogun watches the city as the gust offers its blessings along her retainer's earliest reports. Despite the favorable weather, none of these three women can spur a smile for dawnbreak.

Decades ago, at a similar hour, for the first and last time since then, the Holy Emperor had addressed the people. Not once did the word 'surrender' slip through the discourse, although the evident results of those choices would beg to differ.

Shelters open stuck doors, soldiers shake the rust off their trunks, essential workers light the last cigar of the pack, even a few early starters can be seen walking the streets or cycling their way to their duties. Coffee shops, donuts, bento boxes and the like offered in plentiful quantity in the main roads, pinches of local cuisine decorate the streets every so and so.

From up above, those small ants that the bicycles resemble cause a nod in prayer. Those in the road can hear early commercials in radios and news programs that echo from those nearby on the road, although the cyclists evade the stares of those watching from this ride much as if they were a purple mirror.

And to some from the Imperial Guard doing rounds, to the Chamberlain that brings breakfast to the Shogun's table the sight may truly be one such mirror.

Colorless, tasteless squares for buildings decorate the Tokyo of today in its reflection of western attire, patches applied in haste over hailing damage incurred during the invasion. What few remnants of olden days remain are but small as the clouds above, shops in alleyways or corners. Yet despite the mask forced upon, what inside lies still is the same.

Both the lean and the lax, those tanned from constant groundwork or pale from clerical arrest, those whose eyes yet spark as the stars and the ones who are as dry as the ash of their cigars, all stand to praise the sun and join for breakfast amidst rows of tables, coiling lines of wait, or the lone calm bar remaining from old days. All inside the transport, all the cyclists, all those walking the streets or already working stop their motions as the chime of the 700 hour beeps out.

As if possessed, a chorus in synchrony slowly sings their short anthem in prayer for the Sun to hurry its blessings. Some raise chests, others tighten hands further, a few look down and barely whisper, but the action is nonetheless taken.

The resonance is enough to reach that balcony, where the Shogun heaves a sigh despite further praises from her closest duo of attendants. Much like the day, no lustrous shine could she forward in return at the moment. Only clouds could she see miring the horizon, the clear skyline but a white lie for the Empire.

The cars resume their march, those walking or in bikes doubly so. Chefs hustle in jests to start the kitchens, suits take their sweet time savoring some coffee along the breeze before a very ill mail forebodes shuffled schedules and meetings. Even a few mischievous kids can be seen running off in their games, lethargic caretakers feebly giving chase while stifling yawns before yanking to alert when seeing the rails were close.

As their ride stops, the two Royal Guards are treated to first row vision of the younglings waving sticks and whatnot in the station's direction, wondering if anyone would jump into the rails today.

Sadly, everyone who longed for such a release already took the leap by this point, so all that awaits the kids is an ear-pulling and a severe scolding. What small rambunctious complains reach their ears before the engine drives them away casts thin smiles, soon drying inwards along a small dart at the heart as patrolling soldiers yell the kids into tears, shielded by their caretaker who is now the target for the vitriol.

Even if nothing occurs in the perimeter of the castles, that there is a perimeter set is enough reason for Her Highness to remain clouded as she eats, eyes on the windows, on the swords for shields on every possible step outside.

Much like the plates it stands on, the Empire's history is one of seismic shocks. Large and violent changes then followed by long periods of tranquility. This one last quake still has its fresh scars open, and its aftershocks seem to grow in intensity every passing day. Be it the bountiful amount of IJA soldiers now patrolling the streets, the avoidance to those otherwise decent western shops of many, the tense stares and ensuing requests for inspections from the patrols to the customers of said locations.

A few in the ride snicker at the small arguments on sight. Those two at the front simply grimace, tightening already balled fists. For the occurrence was not singular in their return, the shaking of the transport letting the cracks inside rest not. At times, their observation of the events lent respite and defused sparks. On most, it doused the outer cracks but widens the rifts within, the blazes for gazes between their passing glances and the patrols returning the visual barrages.

United one must stand upon adversity, and the setbacks build character and sow one's resolve. Such is the mantra of this nation, all for one in shared sacrifice. But at the end of the day, earthquakes will fracture all soil. No daylight can reach those depths should one fall prey to the bottomless fissure. Up above, the Sun can only watch the desolation of the land as it fractures.

And much like earthquakes the Empire's history is, cyclical and almost expected but unavoidable. Even Her Highness knows so, tightening her lips while sipping tea, glancing at the lavish emblems in the banners by the walls, their origins stinging a bit more every passing day.

It was long ago when Shogun Tokugawa betrayed his retainers and cowardly fled in secret to sign his surrender and end the war with the Meiji faction to assure the defeat and subsequent surrender of his army, that was still shedding blood for his sake. An all too similar rift had divided the Empire back then, Imperialists revolutionaries against Shogun loyalists both claiming truth for themselves. Ironic, that when the quake ends both sides meet and mingle as the soil is mended, thus giving birth to the Imperial Shogunate of today.

Always tossing around like the Earth, molding itself to a yet unknown shape with the elasticity of clay, bending the knee to any decree of the Sun and wearing any mask commanded upon. Yet one must wonder the same those two young Shinpan do when observing the fractures in plain vision, the same query the Shogun asks herself every dawn when watching her city.

…Is the end result worth the losses to the fissure? Can one not mend the earth without rending it in twain first?

As the Shogun is pressed to hurry her food for meetings edge closer, the return of those Imperial Guards on the road is uneventful, as slow and gentle as the cerulean hour before proper sunshine bathes it all.

Neither of those two could relax upon the flowery fragrance flowing from the nearby park, the last petals and leaves to billowing with the breeze. The same could be said for the celestial rays cascading behind the castle or the enticing sliver of sauce in the air from the kitchens, neither could untie their tense breaths.

Simply descending their ride upon the instruction, making inventory shortly and rounding everyone up, simply going through the motions with half-open eyes. The arrival into the palace's grounds and the following dismissal proceeds as expected. While upon entering the castle one took heading for the mess hall, the other made a beeline to the stairs while hugging the wall. Chasing after and heaving a sigh, shortly both slump their way up, passing some other fellows on the way. Those garbed in dark or gray promptly stand aside and salute, stiff as statues, while those of yellowish attires simply offer a brief nod, or nothing even to the two Imperial Guards garbed in red, much like their eyes were. In turn, they also spared no salutations to speak of.

Simply retiring to their shared bunk, waiting not for the Sun's blessings to illuminate.

Dimly lit by a lantern atop a desk their room, almost in reach of the indirect shine through the curtains. A medium-sized officer's bunk in the barracks of the castle, within it a chime was gently beeping, had been for some time, but much as whatever was ongoing outside it was ignored at large for long enough that the small alarm ceased its functions.

Faint noise litters the place, that from the shower soon fades while the scribbling one does not. Rushing to the paper remains the ink in marshal rhythm even as the door to the bath opens and a query is extended, goes unanswered, causing a shrug and rolling eyes.

"Yeah, just ignore me. Whatever… Guess I can sort through the delivery for now?" she wonders, leaving the towel to cascade unto the floor while reordering damp turquoise to proper, sharp style.

"-and several pieces have been found all across the area, although charred beyond recognition. Identifying the squadron who kept the incursion on Sector G-5H has been deemed impossible," a whisper foretells the clean strokes, swift over the pages that towered over the emerald ponytail.

"-currently worth a few yen more than the last time I took inventory. This set should then go to the top slot," the other in the room reasons, grabbing a small case and tiptoeing about shelves, moving some around in slow, hard smacks.

Both shiver slightly as the curtains flutter upon the tickle of the morning gust, sunshine evident through the regression of the shade. Both frown in equal manner, without making eye contact, at the slight intrusive waddle of light into their room before resuming what they were doing.

"-obliged to note that for the enemy density present, the penetration into the land was not as severe as expected. I posit that the Forts invading this sector were left unable to move further in before being neutralized, due to the lack of signs of acid damage to the units found during the scavenging efforts and or in what facilities were struck by the herd," the whisper continues, slowing down and bringing the end of the pen to the lips for a second, a second where both eyes close tight along a heavy nodding gesture, an involuntary one.

Unlike those other hands, that carefully cradle a few cases down to the bed and plop them open. Fingers dive and grip and grope at the mounds, which slip and filter through the cracks with clinky chirps. "Not a bad haul… There's some decent finds here, yes," she notes, picking one coin and bringing it to eye level. "Not in perfect shape but I shall take what I can get… And there's never enough junk silver to play with, anyways. Should I divide the rest through value or size? Hmm…"

Chatter and footfalls soon are make themselves known through the hallways of the barracks, brief conversations and greetings ongoing within the early birds of the Royal Guards safeguarding the castle. Briefly sharing a gaze has them hunching shoulders, resuming their monotone motions.

"-as far as the talks we had with the IJA would indicate, there was no unit appointed to defend this particular sector. A warning from the UN was extended to all bases to switch to DEFCON2, but it was not followed upon. I admit it is possible some of the other Imperial officers appointed to said bases could have meddled to that end, considering the lack of clear reports received from them. This does merit further inquiries, as it would be the very first time anyone has predicted the BETA's actions with some modicum of accuracy. However, the state in which the Forts were disposed of is-" sudden drought sinks the tongue, shakes the pen and almost blemishes a pristine report, "-most unorthodox. It's as if they were all scorched… alive…" all prior pulchritude quivers, lips and knees too as ears begin to ring in flatline, "I assume, through their own acidic fluids. The sight of the legs entangled amidst goo and what skin remained attached is quite certainly to leave a l-lasting impression…"

"…Hey, there's no need to go into such minute detail," a slow, harsh suggestion as a case is dropped onto the shelves with a hop.

"It is our duty, we are forsworn to complete in thoroughly," swiftly and firmly countered, the pen is left resting on the table.

"There are both image and video evidence, reference that rather than spelling everything out, you stupid idiot," she complains, rolling her eyes and the coins through cases in sorting.

"Mediocrity has no place in our ranks," is the frail answer along nibbled lips, clawing at palms and the pen. "And I can certainly finish one meager report in a timely manner…" Even a coward can afford such a simple task, can't I?

"Mion, your previous paper was decent enough. No need to rewrite it a thousand times."

"Come on, don't be so exaggerated, Shion. It's only the third revision. And your afteraction was just two pages long this time."

"Enough is enough, it gets the job done fast which is what matters the most. No need to linger on whatever happened there, we just gotta report what we see. Nothing else… that's all that matters."

"Sigh… Don't be like this, traversing the terrain is not a lower task to deign it with so little care. And put some clothes on, you oaf," she asks, eyes closing sharp as she looks away from the upset jog back and forth from the bed to the shelves.

Before further debating could ensue, a dry knock disturbs the door. Both look at each other then at the clock, the realization freezes their veins and breaths. The morning shine which reaches their backs grants warmth, it should. Yet it does the opposite.

Another knock, this time two, three, in a rhythm, harder. Again, they look at each other, at the papers in their desks, the folders, the mess of coins. Hands fly faster than TSFs to attempt and restore some order to desks or appearances, but the click of the knob stalls their motions. When looking at it, they realize the lock was not applied. And so, slowly, the wooden door parts open and a heavy pair of footsteps invades the room.

For a moment, there is silence as gazes cross and glasses are tapped.

"Siiigh… Mion, Shion, if you were awake why did you not answer the door?" Maya asks, folding her arms. "I was awaiting your return today."

"A-Apologies, Lieutenant," the former answers, quickly standing from the chair to bow down. "I was finishing my report, tried to bring some order to my desk before allowing you entrance…"

"I see… And what of you, Shion? Why… are you undressed?" she asks, eyes narrow and avoidant.

"…I had just taken a shower, Sister," she says with a shrug, opening a drawer to grant herself some modesty.

"And those mounds there? Were you again playing with coins?" Maya complains, rubbing her temple.

"I'm not playing," the short young woman retorts mid-motions, staring at the hills of coins strewn over her bed. "I am sorting them according to their current value."

"This is the third time you do this in the current month," Maya counters.

Shion frowns, staring while breathing a clean undershirt open. "It is not an issue so long as I complete my duties, is it? My afteraction is done if you want it, I was waiting for Mion to get her ass going."

"Come on, I am only redacting my report properly…"

"You're putting too much energy into a triviality. It's pointless." And more so when it's distressing you so.

"You two, do not start," Maya scolds, glaring at both at a time more than the incoming daylight.

Mion sits down after she gives another bow, remaining still. Shion rolls her eyes, going back to changing in more rough gestures.

"Siiigh… Is your report ready, Mion?" she asks and receives a belated nod. "Have you begun with your preparations, then?"

"I am all done, Maya-sama, they were taken care of long in advance," Mion quickly answers, quickly scribbling the last notes to her paper.

"Same here," Shion says, sight unmoving from her task as she curls her turquoise hair behind an ear, into the usual firm formation. "We assumed a task like this could come at the worst time, so we dealt with the prep ahead of time."

"…And what of these coins, Shion?"

"Found them some time ago at an auction, were delivered moments before the alarm for the incursion went off. I haven't had the time to appraise them yet. What of it, Lieutenant?"

"Sigh… Nothing. I assume you're free at the moment? Then what say you of sharing breakfast?" she asks, Shion shrugs slowly while buttoning the red overcoat again.

"Are we not inconveniencing you, Lieutenant?" Mion asks, eyes down.

"I am the one asking. If you rather spend these last free hours before your departure alone, I shan't insist however," Maya says, opening the door and stepping outside.

"…Guess it's better than staying locked up," Shion says, nodding at her cousin. "And we haven't eaten yet."

"Siiigh… I did want to revise those last lines…"

"Come on, stop complaining. I'm sure it's well enough already."

"I suppose… But I also couldn't even shower."

"Mion, don't you start… If you think you'll get me to leave with-"

"N-No, that's not what I'm doing, really."

"You two, please," Maya taps her glasses, shaking her head. "Why must you always turn the smallest thing into such bickering?"

"…Shion is always like this, she doesn't know how to chill."

"Only because you're constantly allowing yourself to be disheartened by literally everything, for real."

"Come now, Shion. There is no need to push her so. Perhaps you should apologize," Maya says, staring into evasive eyes.

"No, it's okay… We are leaving again so soon, too," Mion nods, flattening the pages to slot them into a folder.

Shion shrugs and finishes sorting her belongings before picking one silver coin, then flips it into a palm, standing and grabbing her reports under an arm.

Nothing much is said on the way to the office, the early sunshine serves only to reveal paleness in the two small moons with reddened eyes. Two footsteps behind Maya they remain, and she can only sigh at the still closed flowers amidst daylight.

Once reaching the office they sit around a small table, already prepared with an enticing scent of tea lingering about along the bowls and dishes of the first meal. Maya then clears her throat before taking the first bite.

"It seems the both of you have not slept well? Was the way here unpleasant?" she asks, staring at the lines under their eyes.

Mion looks down, smiling in delay as she grasps the chopsticks to begin eating. "No, our duties had a hectic pace all throughout the day. Some meager exhaustion won't be a hindrance, Lieutenant."

"Is that so… What of you, Shion?"

"Gulp… You know I can't sleep well anymore, and the transport with its stiff seats did not help, at all," she says, or rather grumbles through half-full cheeks, quickly filled further.

"Perhaps you truly should undergo a hypnotherapy session before departing?" Maya suggests along slow bites.

Shion scoffs, flipping the coin again as she idles the tips of chopsticks between her teeth. "…Because that worked wonders last time."

Mion softly hits her cousin's leg with her boots, shaking her head as faintly while sipping tea. "Come on, it has been long enough, hasn't it? You're barely sleeping four hours these days."

"Every time I've tried it, I wind up with more severe nightmares. That, and emptiness. To be left marching to the tune like a mindless pawn is not an enjoyable state to be in, Mion," Shion counters, stabbing the chopsticks into the rice and going for a long gulp, which pours a lukewarm tint to her insides, calming and easing into a sigh.

"See? You're in need of proper rest. Lieutenant, you think so too, no?" she asks with a downcast nod, which Maya returns.

Yet Shion frowns. "I could say the same of you, Mion. Why don't you take on a hypnotherapy session with me, huh?"

"I-I am well enough. No hesitation shall bind my limbs when I am required to act as I must."

"…That last page of your report begs to differ," Shion scoffs, looking away as she shoves food into her thin lips.

"I am- There is nothing you should concern yourself with," Mion grips the chopsticks, slowly going back to eating as she nods back at Maya. "Despair will not make nest within me, Lieutenant."

It seems the opposite to me, however… "I see. Are you two certain you need no hypnotherapy? I could easily arrange a session. We all could partake in it together, if it would placate your fears?" she asks, going for her cup.

Both of them shake negatives in quakes faster than her fingers reach the glass.

Maya drowns a sigh while slowly sipping, tip of her boots tapping away at the floor. "Well, it is your choice… Still, you two shall be representing our fellowship in this coming task. This attitude cannot continue once you leave."

"Worry not, Sister," Shion nods back, firmly. "Her Highness will be made proud of our performance."

"So I hope. You should practice meditation more often. Oh, actually, this tea here has helped me meditate more easily. I could share some with you if you favor it?"

"I guess? It is a nice blend, yes," Shion says as she eats, Mion does too as she goes for a sip.

Maya relaxes in mirror of them, offering a small nod. "I shall ready some herbs for when you return then. Anyways, how was your mission? I heard on the halls there was quite the commotion during the scavenging efforts?"

Both cousins freeze, for some sustained seconds. Sharing a gaze as lips regress and chopsticks are gradually rested, slowly they watch Maya as she cocks her head in puzzle.

"Say Sister," Shion slowly starts, fingers fiddling with the coin again, "I had heard Raiko-sama was to be reforming her squadron, correct?"

"Wh-" tea gets caught, almost slips out, but Maya holds and simply wipes at her lips. Her glare, quivering, as blazing as the red of her dress, bathes both cousins as ample as the incoming sunshine from the windows. "How did you learn of such a thing?" And what has that to do with my query?

"Tsuhi told us," Mion relents with half a bow, not meeting the eyes. "We were finishing our clerical duties some days ago when we found him having dinner in the mess. He mentioned it in passing as we ate."

"How in the… Siiigh." He wasn't even present when we've debated the matter. How does he do that? "What else did he say?"

"Nothing much," Shion shrugs, lifting slowly both the rice and fish, unnecessarily chomping on them. "He told us you two were sharing plenty of meetings as of late, and wondered if we were to take part in this new group. So, uh, are his words true? The Chains will resume their functions?" she asks, stalling moves and breaths. Mion, much the same.

So Maya sighs and looks away into the windows, right as a cloud denies her of any sunshine. "…Of course not, you oaf," she scalds, then rubs at her temple. "Her new role is different, while active again it is erroneous to affirm she'll resume her functions, or the ones you associate her with. Raiko-sama has moved on already, I believe."

"B-But still," Shion insists, "rather than leaving us as mere castle guards, would it not be for the best that we return under her command?"

"No, as I said, her current task is not compatible with your presence. And even if it were, I would not allow it. What we had to do during 1999 will stay in 1999. Are we clear?"

"…Yes, Lieutenant Tsukuyomi." What did I even expect…

"Good. Your talents are better served elsewhere, after all. The battlefield is not the sole frontier we must defend," she says with a nod, going for a sip of calming tea which softens the tension.

The cousins do the same, also sighing after the pleasant breeze and drink loosens their threads. They still share a narrow gaze, then return it to Maya.

"But you two are sharing meetings as of late?" Mion asks, holding the food in midair at the instantaneous nod, and the smile accompanying it.

"Why, yes. As a matter of fact, they have been rather fruitful," she admits, a smile warping its way further along a drowned giggle.

"Oh?" Mion blinks fast for a moment, sharing a gaze with her, oh, more shocked cousin. "Truly?"

"…Come now, don't give me the penguin in a desert stare. I am capable of sharing parley and pleasantries."

"Yes, Sister, I know you are," Shion quivers a nod, flipping the coin, catching it in mid air, then tapping it with her thumb repeatedly. "But with Raiko-sama? What spell befell her to suddenly hold meetings with you?" And what has you favoring the notion as well, in fact.

"We did try for quite many moons, and she always roared us out of her office… We couldn't even go visit little Fujikagi anymore," Mion laments with a sigh, leaving the chopsticks hanging in her mouth, feebly nibbling at the wood.

Maya shrugs short as she takes a sip, compressed tickling coursing down her torso. "As I said before, many key matters are on-going behind curtains. We found similar interests and are slowly beginning to share more than a few passing words to mend our working relationship," she says while leaning back onto her seat. "…It helps that her veneer remains welcoming, so calm and soothing her voice. Truly, a striking yet radiant lightning amidst otherwise graying clouds," she notes as she again looks to the window, threads of light pouring from the glass this time.

Mion and Shion again share a narrow gaze at the lax, at ease visage. The latter purses her lip as she flips the coin again, the former slowly pokes at her meal.

Slow as the clouds' moves is the raising gesture to finish the tea Maya does, nodding as they all wipe their mouth or empty the offered food. "Well, we should get to our duties," she says, standing and approaching her desk. Procuring a small stack, she offers it and a pen to the cousins. "Once you sign this form, you'll be officially loaned to the UN for the duration of the coming CCSE. Remember to present this to the official in charge of your transport as you board. Do ensure your behavior remains composed at all times, you two."

"But of course, Sister," Shion nods as she accepts the papers, skimming the content and finding it mirrors the briefing previously received, then she signs her name to it. "You need not worry, we shall ensure Meiya-sama is both secure and in proper form during this test to come."

"If I may ask;" Mion softly intrudes when accepting the pen from Shion, "to which degree are we allowed to approach and interact with Meiya-sama?"

Maya softly rests the end of a pencil by her lips, pressing it onto them. "Treat her as you would anyone else, she would favor nothing short of your best efforts. Of course, remember that this cooperative task with UN has its upsides," she briefly taps her glasses, sharpening the gaze into a cold mirror sheen. "If you can glean anything which may be disturbing our young lady, you're free to act as you deem fit. Do remember to take into account you won't be the sole members of the Guard parading as security in this guise of 'cooperation' with the UN," she warns, the pencil tapping at her jaw carefully.

Shion nods and scoffs, folding her arms sharply, causing threads to wail in exertion. "No need, Sister. We've been briefed already, and we know we're to be the eyes of Her Highness on this task. Yet the gall to send those sons of an eldritch-"

"Shion," Maya repines, palming the table. "They are your fellows as well."

"Hmph… We shall have to disagree," no Horns are fellows of mine, she says while flipping the coin, catching it with an uppercut and then giving a wry smile upon yet another sigh from Maya. "I will behave appropriately, Maya-nee, don't worry. Allow me some venting here."

"Sigh… Shion, it has been two years. Your manners should be rectified to what your station behooves you to be already."

"…I shall try."

Maya pinches her nose then sighs again, deflating and without energy this time. "Mion, what are your thoughts?"

The other young woman rests her cup, clearing her throat faintly. "I share Shion's feelings to a degree. We shall keep an extra eye open, Maya-nee- I mean, 1st Lieutenant!" she corrects, back arching straight as an arrow.

"Oh, come now. It is us three alone here, there's no need to keep appearances so. However, do not let your temper flare even if provoked. We are sailing tense currents, and the smallest spark can be exploited to our detriment," she states, both cousins nod sharply. Maya then eyes the clock, slightly hanging her head. "Perhaps you should be on your way to prepare with enough time…"

"So has Sister not arrived yet?" Mion asks, compacting her posture upon the affirmative nod. "Is that so…"

"You may miss each other by some hours, more's the pity. Is there anything you wish me to relay to her?"

"Oh, I prepared some sweets for her and the other three," Mion says, nodding as she taps her fingertips together. "They're in the small fridge in our bunk, I made enough muffins for Her Highness, and you as well if you fancy some."

"Thank you, Mion. Yuuhi-sama will appreciate the gesture. Shion, would you wish to leave some words for Mana?"

"Tell her I'm wishing for a sparring session next time we meet, both in the dojo and in the sims," she says, cracking a smile as she lets the coin dance over her knuckles.

"…Shion, even if you can safely backflip now chances are Mana-nee will best you regardless," Mion notes, arms slowly folding. Then sighing hard along Maya.

For Shion flares in protest. "Shut up. Don't get cocky on me just because you're taller now. I am still awesome with a blade, in the dojo or a TSF."

"Shion, come on. Mana-nee was the only one who could restrain Ta- ahem… you know," she runs a hand into her long, spiraling hair as Maya clears her throat. Mion then shrugs at her cousin, again lightly hitting Shion's leg with her own.

Not an ounce does the pyre douses. The coin is flipped again, higher. "And I've poured plenty of refinement into my stance. A real test is what I now seek, with nothing held back."

"Be careful what you wish for, Shion," Maya warns, interlocking hands. "Mana may employ a defensive style yet she shan't hesitate to decimate you should your overconfidence or ill temper get the best of you. It happened to me at times."

"…I simply wish to know where I stand as of now, even if it equals getting my ass pounded into the ground."

"Language, young miss."

"Come on, Maya-nee… I've yet to best either of you, I don't truly expect to any time soon."

"Even so, such coarse words belong not in your lips. With such flimsy veneer, I see no reason to suggest Mana to spar with you."

"Bah… Fine, fine. I shall remain proper and most polite from now on, Lieutenant."

"Shion, don't be that way," Mion elbows her cousin, offering a faint smile in front of the hoarfrost stare. "Haste makes waste. Only when calm can you truly do your best, to deliver the singular winning strike you could produce. So… I believe you must chill for the time being."

Shion snorts into a chuckle, flipping the coin into the trickling daylight. "Yeah, I suppose. I wouldn't want to wind up slashed in half yet again, certainly."

Maya nods slowly at the exchange, the calming and easing current of both cousins as they go for a final sip of tea. "Such a glimmer should make nest in your features permanently. To clear your minds for what shall come, and lessen the burden burning at your shoulders. But so long as you still cling to the memory in this way… At this point, if it is becoming blight, perhaps it would be for the best to let it go…" still entwined fingers rest onto the wood as her eyes seek the windows, lost in the sky for a moment. Idling a hand on an ear, still looking outside, Maya slowly says, "May I ask why you insist so on following that doctrine, Shion?"

Shion looks down, toying with the coin as her lips dryly whir inwards, so do her thighs and lungs too. "Well, it is effective against incursions. We could not do much during the last one, and an improvised flat-scissor between us both served as an equalizer. So in light of that, perhaps we require to polish those maneuvers. And…" hands stall all movement as air leaves her whole, Shion hangs her head to the point her chin strains the formal dress, "if I had mastered them, perhaps he would still be alive…" and if I don't put in the effort now, the future we dreamed of shan't smile our way.

"S-Shion, come on," Mion softly rubs at a shoulder, grimacing. "There was nothing we could have done then."

"Truly? Nothing at all? My current results beg to differ."

"…Mion speaks the truth," Maya says, somber, as she finishes her drink with her eyes closed. "He chose his own path to the end. There is no point in clinging to such thoughts."

"But if any of us had been besides Takeru during Lucifer then-"

"Shion, that is enough," Maya scolds as a fist hits the table, verbal viper ready to sting a fissure open. "You do recall that Yuuhi-sama herself chose to erase him, do you? He never existed as far history is concerned, you should not even hint at a mention that could imply so," she says, the cousins lower their heads as if awaiting a guillotine. Maya soon mirrors them, hand to forehead in support. "Siiigh… Chase that road if you wish, but do so without regret driving you. Whatever you do now won't bring him back to life. Do not look at what today is through yesterday's lenses, lest you will only fall to the same mistakes of those days."

"…Do you not regret anything then, Maya-nee?" Shion barely whispers, cradling the junk silver as if it were an injured pigeon.

A hand shakes, a spot of tea blemishes Maya's sleeve. Lips press into a thin line as she takes in a deep breath, veiling her sight. "We can no longer dream of the sky, for we must face the present with both feet in the ground. We did what had to, and we must now do what our station requires us to. Allowing myself to be strayed by past emotions is a mistake I cannot commit, and neither should you," she reasons with a nod, both cousins return the gesture but in frozen gray. So Maya sighs and taps her glasses, dulling the edge. "It is all to maintain our unity, to ensure peace does come to be in our time. He would wish the same, and would be saddened to see you in such a state."

Both cousins simply nod down, still and frozen as slow thorns poke at them. Maya very much shares the feeling, but going down her throat as the prior shine is dirtied back to static, as they were within their room.

"…Perhaps you would be better served exploring new roads once you return? If you were wishing to join active fighting duty, I can ask around. There is certainly a place for you in Kitanomaru or the castle's squadrons." I know Ikaruga-sama would be easily convinced to welcome you into the Horns.

"I would… rather wait until I could join Sister, if at all possible," Mion says, nodding and looking away.

Shion flips the coin slowly, eyes closed. "I still wish to join the Wolves if you deny me the Chains, for I am a Shinpan of the Koubuin fellowship."

"Well, I could present the notion to Father while-"

"I'll ask General Guren myself next year, Lieutenant, thank you."

"Sigh… We can continue this conversation later, then. So your luggage and documentation for the trip is at the ready?" she asks, both nod slowly, so Maya gazes at the clock and allows a small slump of her posture. "Well, you can enjoy some hours of leisure until noon then."

"…Say Maya-nee, can we lend you a hand with your reports for a while?" Shion asks, eyes on the coin flipped to the air.

"Why?"

"I've nothing to do and do not feel the need of rest. Rather than focus on the last mission, it'd be better if we could spend some time on-duty even if stashing folders around."

"If you so want, I shan't decline the offer. Mion, do you also wish to join?"

"It'll be a pleasure if you'd allow it. After a shower, that is."

"Siiigh… Mion, come on."

"Do not 'come on' me, Shion."

"I offered and you got stuck on another editing run…"

"And you have to take care of the mess of clothing you left in the floor as well."

"Wh- It was only the towel!"

"A wet towel. I shan't be picking up your slack. And I swear, if you left your undergarments thrown in the shower again, I'm leaving them submerged in water."

"Why, you dumb pick-"

"Come on, you two," Maya shakes her head as they fume and look away, then she stands and takes her tray to another, smaller table. "In any case, I shall return the trays and plates to the mess. You should leave your room in order, then return here later if you indeed would like to lend me a hand," she nods with a small smile.

Both cousins return it as they stand, saluting before taking their leave. As Maya opens the door, however, she sees someone walking up the hall towards them. The cousins straighten their posture, return a stiff salute to the fellow. The gesture is barely returned, briefest glances cast beyond the rim of each side. Cracks in the shade, the lingering yet narrow eyes. The cousins remain throwing glances back at Maya as they go on their way.

Maya herself nods with both arms folded behind her back. "1st Lt Fujiwara, good morning."

"Good morning to you, 1st Lt Tsukuyomi," the short Fudai says with a thin smile, bowing down deep. "Are you available at the moment? I've some reports that require your attention."

"I see… Come on in, let us handle this immediately," she says, entering back and standing aside.

Fujiwara steps in, giving another bow. "Apologies for intruding since such an early hour. Have you had breakfast yet, ma'am?"

"Yes, worry not. You're not imposing."

"My, such an early bird, Maya-sama. It is always a surprise how devoted you are."

"We of the Imperial Guard must stay in top form, languishing over acceptable results would be a sin. Now then, take a seat. Would you favor some tea?"

"Oh yes, thank you. Ahem… I assume you already know what this will be about," Fujiwara says as she opens a folder, passing it to the other end of the desk.

Maya sees the emblem stamped and heaves a sigh, softly raising the paper to observe.

The usual hustle of the day begins in earnest, evident from the chatter beyond the windows and the door, pens for spears and ink spilling in rivaling quantities to those surrendered during the Defense of Niigata. The gust remains cold through the air, much like those eyes behind the rim of the glasses as she rereads the papers offered with some gentle aid of incoming golden rays.

"1st Lt Fujiwara, I believe I've been clear enough before," Maya concludes, lightly hitting a folder with the back of her gloved hand as she leans onto her desk. "There are other priorities in the timetable. Her Highness has decided that the rest of the recruits should be sent elsewhere."

"Yet I am now delivering the petition to have them join Camp Kitanomaru, not as part of the castle guards," the Fudai softly says, with half a bow despite the glaring gorgon not halting its lunge. "If the latest incursion into Niigata has proven anything is that we require far more might than expected. The IJA's performance was lacking, and only through our intervention was the advance halted, the cities safeguarded. I believe Her Highness would welcome the notion to have our recruits learning from experience?" she asks with venoms for a smile, leaning softly onto the table.

Immutable Maya remains only to shake her head subtly. "Say what you will, but our input matters little. The documents are already signed, and to dally further on the delivery would present a setback we cannot afford. As you said," she taps her glasses, frowning frosting fire forward, "the damage is still burning. We need our fellows walking the territory, every wasted second counts."

Fujiwara slowly treads her short hair, holding the barrel of the gaze at bay, before relenting a bow and a silken smile. "If such is your call, then let us not remain strayed here. I shall acquiesce to your judgment, Horn Three."

"Siiigh… 1st Lt, could you stop using our callsigns outside of battle?"

"Why would it be cause for concern, Maya-sama?" she asks, thin lips expanding into a smile, barely showing teeth. "You and I are fellows, comrades of the same squadron. Why would I not show my flight commander the due respect she rightfully deserves?"

"…In any case, here are the folders," Maya passes them to the other end, Fujiwara reaches out, the tip of her fingertips resting atop the Shinpan's gloves. "One squadron is what shall be allowed of trainees in Kitanomaru, but we will be sending one of our bests to instruct them. I shall be awaiting the answer."

Staring back, fog covers the new moon down to a whisper. "There are still some matters for us to discuss, are there not?" she asks, not moving her hand from Maya's.

Maya waits, holding the gaze, detecting nothing in the haze before retracting and folding her arms. "What are you speaking of, exactly?"

"…The hangar would seem to be rather busy this morning, wouldn't you agree? Chief Kazama was quite certainly blitzing through the corridors. Even harshly reprimanded me again on the state of my craft while she was rushing."

"I see…"

"The Hydras will not deploy to their scheduled mock battle, going by what I could infer."

"Oh, truly? Quite a surprise. Do you know the reason why?"

"Yes, actually. Kyoko-sama received some… favorable news, regarding the railgun project," Fujiwara squints her eyes, only a glint visible, as she looks to a side in the office, to the banners with the Regent's logos. "She and her most favorite Fudai were certainly parading about the place while directing the preparations for the weapon to be shipped off."

"A rather sudden resolution, one could say," Maya says, tapping her chin with a pencil.

Fujiwara nods, slow and still glaring at the banners. "Indeed, but it does not come without its merits. I've asked around, and after some queries and petitions I can safely affirm that there will be no disturbances in the coming days within the lower floors."

"…Is that right. I assume then-"

"Yes, Ikaruga-sama has chosen to respect the Shogun's wishes. I… do not share this choice, however, most of the preparations forwarded are already being met," she nods, expression tight as she grabs a cup and slowly sips. "I sent word for us Horns to also stay away from the hangar for these days. The coast is clear, Maya-sama."

"Your cooperation is appreciated as always, 1st Lt Fujiwara," she nods back, noting down the intel.

"Well, it is for the best that we work together, after all," the verbal viper relents into a smile, tip of the tongue roving the edge of the cup as she drinks. "So, considering the timing, could you kindly give your support to this initiative?" Fujiwara asks softly, softer the slide of a folder towards Maya, equal the attempt for fingertips to again linger near the incoming hand.

A clear expression grows tense when retracting the hand, embers turning to flames again when slowly coursing through the sentences. Not meeting the eyes, Maya simply remains reading no paragraph in particular. "…I do not recall to have heard anything on this matter yet? What is this about a sudden delivery of Shiranui 1C units?" Finally, what took this so long?

Fujiwara sends a small gaze, apathetic in its tension, darkening in its thin smile, before idling a hand on the waves in her hair. "It is an initiative to further integrate our doctrines, Maya-sama. Chief Kazama has always been very vocal on her disagreement to bestow Takemikazuchi units to fresh recruits of high Houses, which I find myself agreeing to," she says, a slight narrowing of lips. "And sadly, we do not possess access to the Fubuki. Thus, Ikaruga-sama thought to ask Kyoko-sama for an option to meet the quota of our hardworking trainees. I double checked our rosters and the performance of each squadron outside the Horns so that these 1C units be given to exceptional fellows already in service while their Zuikakus are kept as the first TSFs of the youngest recruits, or sent as training units were there a surplus. The details are in page twelve, if you wish to survey my proposition."

"Hmm… I see, interesting. Her Highness also seemed keen on employing the 1C in some manner, I admit. However, a matter of this magnitude would need to go through the council to-"

"I would favor a resolution today, Maya-sama."

"…Certainly you are not daring to ask Her Highness for an express agreement, are you?"

"Why, I would never, my fellow! As I said, this is all an attempt to try and have our fellowships coexisting in a more orderly manner, based on our own shared work thus far. Your signature could be enough to at least complete the incoming delivery, the final arrangements can be debated by our Regents at a latter date. I collected the other signatures already these last few days, though it cost some favors on my end."

"Hmm… Impressing work," Maya nods as she spots the binding ink, causing Fujiwara to grin faintly. "I am not opposed to backing your proposed arrangements, no. However, I'm not yet convinced on this hurried request. Matching spoils would have to be forwarded for such an admission," she slowly says, sharing the viper glare for a moment, a moment where it breaks as she raises her cup and finds it empty. "Oh…"

"Allow me, Maya-sama," Fujiwara stands, bowing before accepting the cup and going to the nearby table where the kettle is.

Maya then observes the Fudai as she prepares the brew with what few threads of daylight filtered through the windows framing her person. In the usual calm apathy of a new moon night the gloved hands ready the herbs, in refined movements one would rather expect depicted in books showcasing tea ceremonies of yore. It does not take long before a slight veil of enticing scents swirls over Fujiwara's shoulders and into the light, as Maya simply watches the mesmerizing sways of traditional and careful motions with her full attention.

"My apologies for the wait," she softly says as she returns to the table with the kettle atop a tray.

When smelling the brew, Maya's eyes close almost by instinct as the tip of her tongue tickles her inner lips. "…No, it is fine, my fellow. The scent is certainly… delectable. I must admit, this has become a personal favorite of mine."

"It gladdens me my gift was fitting to your palate, Horn Three," Fujiwara smiles, thin and small, bowing deep as she finishes pouring the cup.

"Fujiwara, could you stop it?"

Only the blank smile of the new moon night welcomes the eyes. "Please, as I said, despite our differences, I am trying to sow true fellowship between us, Maya-sama. Consider it a token of thankfulness for all you've taught me since I've joined the Horns, ma'am."

"I see…" is all Maya says, raising the cup to her lips. Sipping calmly at it, shivering a bit as the warmth flickers eyes and tickles sides, Maya stretches her legs and rolls back comfortably into her seat. "So delicious… Ahem. As I said, the gift is very much appreciated. Now then, regarding these Shiranuis' delivery…"

Fujiwara shrugs small, regaining the poker face. "I admit, it is a rather precarious state of affairs. Such a sudden requisition is must unorthodox, indeed. However, regardless of where the recruits are sent, it is clear we require more firepower after the Niigata incursion. To leave trainees fending for themselves with Zuikakus along their superiors, isn't it courting with the grave?" she asks, lips on the rim, eyes darting from the clouded sky beyond the windows to the far more grim complexion of Maya.

"That is a fair concern, yes…" she says, eyes closed as she drinks, sighing heavy and dispelling the clouds behind the glasses. "The official papers do not seem to mention anything on where the Shiranui 1Cs will be sent, however?"

As soft and blank as the paint of the office, the Fudai relents a small nod. "That is not for us to know, to question the Regents' designs. I prepared suggestions but they lack backing. If there are any arrangements the Shogun would favor, I am willing to acquiesce to them. Perhaps we could attempt to make arguments for this arrangement to Ikaruga-sama?"

"…You would be willing to do such a thing?"

"My, what a pointless query. We are fellows, are we not Maya-sama?"

"Well, yes, indeed, but-"

"If so, to act in alignment is to our mutual benefit, no? We have had our disagreements, as we will continue to have I'm certain, but that does not equal animosity, ma'am," softly resting the cup, licking her lips, she chuckles at the thorns raised, giving then a bow. "Surely, you and I both wish for the safety of the people to remain a guarantee, and for us warriors to stand proud in the battlefield as their sword, correct?"

"And you would accept my terms, then?"

"I must follow orders, to ensure our goals are met. Such is why I prepared my own report, to ensure the 1C units have the greatest impact rather than be languishing away from the frontlines in the hands of high nobles or greenhorns. If our joint efforts can bridge the gap between our Regents then, please do employ me however you wish, Horn Three."

"1st Lt, I said-"

"Please, I insist. To serve is my delight, and to safeguard our Empire's peace and might are the reward. It is us who should bend the knee rather than our Regents or the people, no?"

"Yes, indeed… Ahem. So, let's say I," she drinks, eyes flutter, dance inwards. Meeting sparks for eyes in her thoughts, letting the pit in her stomach go, the tense grip on the cup too. "Let's say I would wish to hand some of these Shiranui 1C units to the squadron overseeing the Hibiya outpost."

"Oh, was that not who is to instruct the trainees we spoke of before? Captain… Amato, was it?" she asks, eyes narrowing as she picks up the pages in reread.

"Yes, indeed. If I asked for some of these 1C units to be reserved for those fellows, your answer would be?" she asks, leaning a bit forward, eyeing the papers. Blanking out more than the pages upon the immediate relinquishing nod. "Are- Are you serious?"

"If such is your suggestion. I've learned keeping quiet and not asking questions is usually the best policy, and even if I… am not particularly familiar with that squadron, I assume this is a wish of Her Highness. You've my support for this, Maya-sama."

"I see…" shock and tension slips away, like the tea down her throat. "Thankfully, now I can give favorable news to Raiko-sama. A mere glint for her exploits, but it is something to reward her with."

"…Why the surprise, ma'am?" Fujiwara asks, blinking at the extended silence and relaxation on the rocks.

"Oh, nothing. I was expecting some more debating from you, is all." But it is good to see you and I can be called proper fellows now. Perhaps, with Raiko-sama and Fujiwara in tow, some positive changes can begin within Kitanomaru now that it shan't be I alone…

"…Do you like it when we argue, Maya-sama? I shall take note of that, then," Fujiwara says, interlocked fingers resting under the mischievous smile.

Initial embers die down, Maya shakes her head and raises the cup, blinking as nothing happens, nodding silently upon the offer for another cup. "In any case, may I ask why the haste? Not only the agreement but the delivery must also be done in such a short time?"

"Well… It would be rather, ahem, convenient, wouldn't you say? To have one of the hangars busy with these new units, while the other is undergoing the preparations?"

"Oh… I see, a diversion?" Why go to such lengths to aid our efforts now, Ikaruga-sama? Why oppose the notion so strongly for so long, then?

Fujiwara nods down, dropping the curtain of her eyes. "We cannot allow eyes to notice the departure, after all. Even if the reasoning can be compelling and us of the Imperial Guard will stand by the decision, I cannot say the same about the rest of our common fellows…" she glares at another set of windows, the Diet visible through the glass.

"That is agreeable, yes," Maya nods, resting the cup and fixing back to a proper sitting posture. "Is Ikaruga-sama willing to hear proposals on where to employ the 1Cs, then?"

"From Her Highness, assuredly so. If we present it together, it is all but guaranteed. I do feel the need to remind, demand more than you truly would favor. I believe he would spin his wheels, all to laugh at the tension in the air," she repines, rubbing her temple.

"Sigh… Yes, as of late that seems to be the case," she shakes her head, going for another sip.

"As a matter of fact, this delivery was one such request," Fujiwara grips the stack of papers, a slight drip of poison in the barrages sent at the banner of one particular Regent. "I welcome the honor of my duties, but there is only so many sudden calls I can withstand in a single day… Honestly, you have my respect for servicing him for such long a time, Maya-sama," she admits, this time honestly, giving a light kick at the table's leg when overlapping a leg over the other.

"It is nothing worth much praise, to be honest. I am used to dealing with a rambunctious pace since early morning…" she says, a single petal cracking off her tone. Roots entangle and tickle at her neck. "In any case," going for a sip while rereading the pages, "you'd be willing to alter your proposal to include my suggestions on where to send some of the 1Cs?"

"But of course. If you truly seek so, I shall revise the papers immediately," she affirms while lifting the pen, nodding sharp and in perfect poker upon the few surprised blinks.

Maya gives then a slow nod, Fujiwara smiles and cocks her head, awaiting instructions. Maya's words and nothing but does she modify, slow brushes over the paper and of gazes to her superior. The small downcast nod to showcase the revised document gets a smile off Maya, who accepts the pen and signs it with gusto.

"You have my agreement, Fujiwara. We shall remain in contact to ensure this delivery coincides with the departure, then."

"Yes, ma'am, of course," Fujiwara nods back, accepting the folder and tidying all the papers. "Let us hope we can resolve most meetings as cleanly as this one going forward," she admits through the poker, forwarding a small smile, a gentle chuckle.

It has a nice ring to it, slow and soothing unlike most of their exchanges. It makes Maya sigh and return the smile, the light chuckle as well. "The feeling is mutual, 1st Lt. I shan't forget the gesture."

"It is nothing, ma'am. To serve you is my delight. Let us continue to work in alignment to lessen the burden on the Regency Council, the air is already thickened enough as is," Fujiwara notes, again glancing to the windows.

Maya finds herself sighing and nodding to the words. "It would seem even the graying clouds hold more clarity than what's below at the moment… Oh, apologies, I did not-"

"It is alright, my fellow. We share the feeling, I assure you," Fujiwara says, walking up to Maya, patting her shoulder, leaving her hand caressing the upper back, close to the hair. Leaning closer when Maya does not move away. "If even a meager moment of respite is denied to us, what is left for the rest?"

"Yes… Yes, I suppose. Thank you, 1st Lt," Maya says, nodding back.

One last rub to the shoulder is given, brushing the hair on the way out. Fujiwara gives a tiny smile and a bow. "Say less, ma'am. It is only obvious to do. Now then, I shall be taking my leave. I fear Ikaruga-sama might once more send me to deliver more folders around Kitanomaru."

"Truly? At such an early hour?"

"Siiigh… He is quite the slave-driver, isn't he," Fujiwara repines.

"Well, at the least it keeps the tide at bay, and the folders off the pipeline. Nothing else we can do but to shoulder the duty and follow our commands, can we? Your efforts shan't go unrewarded, Fujiwara," Maya says, resting a hand onto one of Fujiwara's shoulders, brushing gently.

Lighting up a smile and a nod. "Thank you kindly, Maya-sama. But I do welcome this duty. The Imperial Guard must stand proud and united, even if the sakura are tainted red," she says, chucking while giving a soft pat to Maya's lower back.

Joining in the gentle laugh while tapping her glasses, it all so simply leaves her. The tension, the otherwise tight gloves, a small ember lights up behind the dry ice wall usually in place. Perhaps it was the soothing tea, perhaps the glimmer of those eyes usually lost in a new moon night, maybe the frail threads of sunshine cascading over them.

Maya simply returns the pat to Fujiwara's low back with a thin smile, letting her breath unchain the lungs. "Yes, indeed, true words you speak. Should we relay this report tomorrow morning, then?"

"Unless you're available today?"

"I don't think I will…" Her Highness requires me to watch over her, and Mana is to report her activities today, too. I should let this- However, if Ikaruga-sama requests all the 1C units… To appease him would allow Mana some respite, perhaps divert his attention. And the sooner I can return Raiko-sama's efforts, the better it'll be for our shared work as well."No, you're correct, this matter must be resolved swiftly. I shall be contacting you when I gain some free time then, 1st Lt."

"Understood, Horn 3. I shall be awaiting your call," Fujiwara smiles, giving another small pat to Maya's arm.

The action is mirrored but Maya shakes her head and heaves a sigh. "Understood…"

"Are you feeling well, Maya-sama?"

"Oh, yes… Apologies, Fujiwara. My head has been a bit heavy lately," she says, sighing and rubbing an eye.

"Are you having trouble sleeping? Staying awake deep into the night?"

"No, rather, it is hard to wake up as of late," she admits, slumping her shoulders while massaging the underside of an ear. "And when I do, I feel this pressure all over me…" as if something were crushing me, impeding any and all movements. Almost like a cloak of frost restraining me, she admits, shivering slightly. "Sigh… Which is why I've thanked you for the tea, it has been a pleasant company at night when I'm sorting through the reports to sign or when I wake up in such a state."

"I see… If you need aid, you can always call on me, Maya-sama. I'd be delighted to help you," Fujiwara quickly proposes, the mischievous hand now supporting and massaging a shoulder.

"I would not wish to impose, you've your own duties to tend to."

"No, no, please. Any time I can share to you is a plentiful honor, and fellows should act in alignment, no?"

"Well… If you insist, allow me to accept your offer then," Maya sighs again, tapping her glasses.

"No, as I said, think nothing of it. It is an honor and pleasure to join efforts with you. However, Maya-sama, please do not wait until you're overloaded," she whispers, slowly rubbing one of Maya's shoulders, brushing her hair. "We have already talked about this. As your 2IC, supporting you is my duty. Your orders are absolute, Horn Three."

"If you insist… Are you truly not bothered by more orders?"

"Why would I be? It is an honor for me, to be worthy of your trust. And again, you accepting my aid in this manner is, to me, a proof of true fellowship between us, Maya-sama."

"Is that so…"

"Indeed. I would be more than elated if you would accept my hand," Fujiwara notes with a smile, twitching as Maya giggles and returns a small, but strong, pat to her lower back. "M-Maya-sama?"

"Apologies for being on my guard, Fujiwara. I do see your efforts, and the review you did on where to deliver the 1C units shan't go unrewarded."

"No, as I said, to serve you is a pleasure…" Fujiwara scratches her neck, forcefully raising her eyes away from tempting hills. "Oh, apologies, I did not intend to stare."

"Please, I've taken no offense at it. It is odd for you, of all people, to allow your eyes to wander so, but I shan't begrudge you some meager curiosity," she says, smiling lax as she giggles in soft rhythm in front of where habitually only a new moon made anchor then gives another, kinder slap at her fellow.

Fujiwara's lips part slightly but words are submerged, thighs softly rustling together as she stares, sight cascading lower and lips growing slack again as Maya's gentle laughter causes a soft jiggle of her hills. For a moment, fixated in the valley the sight remains.

"I'm merely… taken aback by this newfound attitude of yours, Maya-sama."

"Please, we've shared a changing room and a shower. Let us not act like blushing greenhorns. Furthermore, you had said you wished to sow fellowship with me, no? May I reach out when I require you then?"

"Oh, you're more than welcome to take my hand if you covet it so, Maya-sama. My sole answer to you is affirmative," she says with a mischievous smile, edging closer.

"Then I shan't hesitate to call on your support," Maya answers while tapping her glasses, smiling, and dulling it upon Fujiwara's long, heavy sigh. "What is it?"

"No, mind me not. I forgot such… words were ineffective," she says, shaking her head as Maya tilts her own in confusion. "As dense as always, huh…"

"Then it will be my pleasure to accept your offer of support, my fellow. If you ever need a hand, know that mine is always available to you."

"I see… It is my pleasure, ma'am." But that is one of your charms, milady.

Maya nods, giving a soft palm to a slouched shoulder. "Whenever you need an ear is also fine, we can share some sake under the moonlight when you're free."

"That would be… delightful, truly," she says, nodding twice in quick succession.

"Good, I shall invite you if the opportunity presents itself then. In any case, I shan't keep you any longer then. Do inform me if you're unable to rendezvous for the delivery of the reports," she says, taking a step back into firm posture.

"Oh, yes, of course. But worry not, I shall find the time for you, ma'am. Fellows support each other, no?" Fujiwara appeases with a soft palm to an arm, brushing the silky, fluffy hair while lost in those turquoise moons.

Maya nods with a faint smile, again palming Fujiwara's backside. "Let me gather the papers on the trainee squadron, they were all signed already."

"Truly? My, you do work fast, Maya-sama."

"It was a stroke of luck to be honest. These last meetings have been fruitful, thanks to Cpt Amato being so welcoming of my propositions," she says with a smile and a giggle, crouching by a shelf to retrieve a folder, which gets stuck and requires pulling.

"…Are you a close fellow of that Captain, Maya-sama?"

"Not as much as I'd like to, honestly."

"Oh… Truly?"

"Indeed… Mine own veneer lost luster when around her before, causing hers to flare in defensive posture, which then only further eroded our mutual trust," she rasps through tight lips, for the stuck folder remains as such. Only through a cloud of dust can it be released. "Cough… Such a blunder on my part. I must have slotted it in too strongly last night."

"It is fine, Maya-sama," Fujiwara says, accepting the folder and placing it under an arm. Staring into her eyes and smile, flushing and looking down, then almost lost admiring a dual Mt. Fuji again, she clears her throat when walking to the door. "Ahem… Well then, I'll be on my way," she says, saluting sharply.

Maya returns the gesture and doesn't dissolve the stoic mask, then walks to the entrance and opens it. She then nods, watching as Fujiwara takes her leave in perfect poker. The Fudai gives a curt smile before turning away, sighing long as she walks into the hallways, dragging her feet slightly while poking her lips, small touches yet lingering cause her hips to sway a bit more than normal. Maya watches the slouched departure, cocking her head in puzzle before softly closing the door.

"…What in blazes is wrong with her? I even acknowledged her exploits of late… Perhaps I should show her my support more directly? If she is delivering folders for Ikaruga-sama, I can only imagine how many errands she is made to oversee. Siiigh… I don't want to admit it, but Raiko-sama's nickname may hold some truth to it," she taps her glasses while restoring pulchritude to her desk.

Once that is done, and the rioting shelf is also dusted fully and reordered properly, Maya gazes out the window as the breeze rolls in along some sunshine.

"Well, everything is certainly improving for us as of late… May the tailwinds remain on our backs," she says, nodding in respect to the skies. "Now then, what was I to do now?" tip of a finger by the lips, she closes her eyes while pacing about the room. "The cousins should be on their way here or resting, my meeting with Fujiwara was swiftly resolved, and for Raiko-sama's new duties too so that is taken care of as well… What was next on my to-do list? Um…"

"Checking on Mana-sama, perhaps?"

"Oh! Yes, that's what I was wanting to- Y-Yasomaga?!" she slides backwards, flinching at the apathetic tilt of the head.

"Why raise your voice so, Maya-sama? I am no ghost," he protests, lips shrugging, the curly ends of his hair too.

"How many times must I tell you not to appear from out of nowhere?!"

"I did no such thing. I was standing outside then walked into the office right behind you. If you didn't notice, was your mind lingering on something else?"

"Nothing, it matters little. But still, you should announce yourself, 2nd Lt Yasomaga."

"Oh, I did not want to intrude again, is all."

"Huh? What are you talking about?"

"…You and 1st Lt Fujiwara seem to have grown rather trusting of each other, no?" he asks, pacing softly his eyes over Maya's expression.

She simply nods. "Of course, sharing grueling work is one fine way to appreciate the best traits of your fellows. I was merely returning her gestures after a fruitful meeting, is all."

"Hmm, is that so?" he asks, with a thin smile.

"What are you implying?"

"I did not know you could grow so… handsy with your fellows, Maya-sama, even to brush their waist so."

"Huh? Do not misunderstand, Yasomaga," Maya sighs, folding her arms. "It's a simple gesture, honestly. It could be the back or the shoulders for all I care. Again, she and I have shared a changing room. You and me have as well, and we know but a brief touch is nothing to assign penance over Let us not act as if we were flushing teens," she shrugs, walking up to him and delivering a soft yet playful slap to his waist as an example.

Tsuhi twitches, eyes wide, then takes quite a few steps back, colliding with the wall. "H-Huh… So this is nothing but a show of fellowship for you?"

"Of course. What else could it be?"

"You've my sincerest sympathies, 1st Lt Fujiwara," Tsuhi nods to the windows, sighing when recalling rebelling threads of hair near equally puzzled eyes such as Maya's now. "I see…"

"Oh, yes, that is true. It does not mean I don't appreciate your exploits, Yasomaga, except for when you manifest out of thin air," she nods back, Tsuhi simply remains in attention then sighs again. "Are you not going to return the gesture?" Maya asks, turning her back to him then tilting it slightly.

"W-What? Oh, no, um, don't mind me, Maya-sama. As I said, it would be troublesome if rumors would begin to scatter… And it is not the same if I were to, uh, give you that gesture as opposed to 2nd Lt Fujiwara, no?" he asks, trying not to stare and giving instead a soft, evasive brush to Maya's arm instead

"Well, I suppose you have a point…" He's right, this is bound to incite rumors. What am I even doing? This is no manner to behave for- But… "Ahem… Do not let whispers sow rifts between us, Yasomaga. I do not… begrudge your constant appearances from thin air, you may return the gesture if we're… alone?" she asks, blinking fast as she tilts her head, coughing and regaining her stoic mask upon Tsuhi's confused stare, which cracks and slips down for a second in curious admiration. Maya clears her throat, both stand again in attention. "…Then, to what do I owe this visit? Has Mana arrived already?" she asks, sitting slowly.

"Not yet, but her transport is on the outskirts of the city," he says, again looking elsewhere. "I fear all the checks due to it coming from Yokohama will delay its arrival to the castle, and even then, the queries may leave Mana busy until the evening.

"I see… Regrettable. Anything else?"

"The Chamberlain requested me to hand you the revised schedule for the day," he says, hesitantly stepping up to the desk and leaving a paper on it.

Maya grasps it and her chin, reading slow. "Hmm… I see. It would seem the scavenging efforts did reveal something of import, for the Council to hold even a brief meeting. Oh, that reminds me," Maya glares slightly, resting the paper and interlocking fingers hard. "When was it you heard Raiko-sama was to rebuild her squadron?"

"Oh? Some days ago, I believe? I went to deliver one of the reports you had handed me, and as I spent some time playing with Fujikagi-san she told me of her meetings with you. Which is why I returned to express her words to you that night, remember?"

"Oh, yes… Sigh. Forgive the query," My memory is more slippery than I thought lately. "But do be careful when walking the halls so late into the night, Yasomaga. Remember that you are not a shinobi, not officially at least."

"…Thanks for your concern, but I do favor strolling late along the moonlight. It aids my night shift much, Maya-sama," he chuckles as he bows down in the usual lethargy.

"I see… Well, I shan't hold you any longer then. I may have some reports for you later, but for the moment you can remain sorting through our usual checks."

"Roger," he slowly says, saluting.

As Maya stands to open the door, she finds Yasomaga had vanished already without as much of a sound. She sighs and rubs her forehead, the aching inside which still mired her. A knock then hits the door, the cousins returning to help and ending up confused upon questions regarding if they had seen the gray ninja yet. Slowly, all three of them sit and resume their duties.

---

Some hours later…

---

A calm morning of handling folders and stamping papers, as well as delivering some muffins to an otherwise moody ember of blue. Although eyes remain on the door and the clock, the fourth one of the group does not make an appearance despite a Support Vehicle arriving from Yokohama not too long ago. Eventually, the three Tsukuyomi decide to not test the limit and like a cloud slowly make the way down to the barracks.

"…It is a crying shame that Mana cannot see you off at the least."

"Please, Maya-nee. I understand," Mion nods as she opens the door and enters her shared room. "Disinfecting herself and the craft takes its time, as well as all the documentation she must present. I can only imagine the surgical checks done to the Support Vehicle that will transport Meiya-sama's unit to that base…"

"One would think we could automate the process rather than have it take hours," Shion's eyes roll as she strolls behind Maya into the room, moving and hopping to grab at her large travel bag. "Uff… It's these things which make me wish to sink to the shadows once again. I envy Tsuhi so much…"

"Be as it may, even he cannot traverse the castle undocumented and at his leisure," Maya sighs, helping her sister with the objects on the upper shelves to stop frantic hops and curses. "And I certainly don't need you two popping up from nowhere as well."

"Yes, it is sort of creepy when he does that… I can never hear anything when he leaves or arrives," Mion relents as she closes the zipper, inventory finished as she hangs her ID card from her neck. "Are you ready, Shion?"

"Yes, all is in its right spot," she says, slugging the luggage over a shoulder. "Shall we?"

A small stroll to reach the exit and another to scan IDs and confirm the departure, the three leave the castle and hop on a Humvee. A moment taken to slowly depart the palace, glancing around in hopes of catching Mana or one of the trio, a sigh shared then, their ride lines up to take into the street.

Along the pouring daylight and the slow and fresh gust of noon they ride to the coast. Bikes swerve away, far more hurried the gazes when they catch a glimpse of their uniforms. Most offer silent curtness, a few smiles and nods, a child or two point at them, laughing at their hair's shape in a red light. For the most part, inner Tokyo is a calm voyage amidst cyclist and the peasantry.

Although, when reaching the outer sector near the highways one or two cars decide to block and slow down their lane of choice at times. Despite honks and small attempts to move past without inciting fights, those dark and expensive hoods remain hounding ahead, smirking to themselves when watching from the rear view. Until Maya's brows twitch, she bits her lips and warns the cousins. Blasting the accel as taught by Takahashi, and leaving the cousins crying mercy to the skies, the Humvee quickly leaves the concurred streets of Tokyo in a blurring glint.

The pressure exerted to remain on the seat, the wind flying her hair up, the shackling shiver of the engine, the speed. Unnumbered excuses float in Maya's head, dispel the nibbling of her lips, calm the shakes and quakes, slow down the crazed speed. What then blasts forth are the cousins' complains, unable to wipe comical waterfalls from their eyes yet.

Slowly the traffic dies down, letting them return to a moderate pace and ample space to go through to everyone's thankfulness. Gradually a pinch of salt pokes about which makes the cousins frown and purse lips to and fro, makes the one at the wheel to slow down and soften her grip ever so slightly. Maya retells habitual tips of conduct to nods from Mion and shrugs of Shion, eyes always on the road, the sniffs sending her mind somewhere else.

Eventually, the paved highway leads to the docks of the bay, narrow streets flanked by concurred storehouses, as well as jolly shouts on-duty which stop to either bow down in respect or whistle catcalls at them. The end of their road leads to large wired fences lined with Royal Guards garbed in black. All stand petrified and salute the three Shinpans, opening the checkpoint's rows of sawing defenses. With only a showcase of their ID, for their flamboyant and fluffy hair is proof enough of their standing, the three are free to walk to the vessel that shall take their fellows to this coming task.

Tight formations, far more tight than the sailor knots being tied. Heavy stares dropping anchor onto their frames, stalking. Always a target, as meant to be.

Maya glances about, sensing the fins willing to pierce the asphalt to lunge at the minimal wrong step. She then stands firm, facing the cousins in poker and saluting. "This task is safe in your hands, you two. We expect a favorable report."

"Yes, Lieutenant!" both cousins reply, saluting back in the same veiled firmness.

"…And do take care not to bicker on the way or during the trial."

"Yes, Lieutenant!" Mion answers, unmoving.

Shion groans a bit. "Come on, have some faith in us."

"I do, it needs but some watering, is all. More so now that you're in unknown tides."

"Sigh… Do not worry, anything out of place will be immediately reported," Shion says, returning to saluting.

A soft smile raises in Maya at the stalwart posture which would make the fortifications around resemble more a tilted castle in the sand. She nods, folding her arms. "I shan't keep you any longer. Fare you well."

"…It's 'See you later', Lieutenant," Shion complains.

"Sigh… I suppose, yes," Maya closes her eyes, brushing her fringe as the base of her throat narrows. "See you later, you two. Take care."

Both cousins smile and nod back before taking on a marshal march towards the steel vessel awaiting by the sea. Divesting of petals and smiles, thorns surface and send curious glares away when meeting. Eventually, the cousins are stopped by a few checkpoints from the UN crew requesting documents and certifications.

Maya sees them take the stairs into the ship, for a moment allows herself to bask in the sea breeze fluttering her hair and dress. So cold, lingering with an undertone of fuel and gunpowder. It was the usual, had been for quite some moons. Why then does she shiver, what tickles ice into her sides.

"…For them to still cling to such words. I should admonish and forbid their usage soon. However…" Maya looks down, fingertips tapping at the base of her neck, simply taking in the breeze swirling around her.

Not for long, as metallic whirring snaps her away from warmer places. Akin to curious eyes onto a car crash, the Royal Guards and the navy's patrols standing nearby solidify on the spot, watching the ship and those who've just arrived but making no attempt to approach either despite slightly poisonous gazes thrown around.

Maya gives a distant nod to the UN mooks overseeing the ship, who faintly return the pleasantry, then with a sigh she turns around and begins to take her leave, head held high and sight further above. Crossing paths with that other set of soldiers coming to board the ship but sharing neither words nor gazes, as if in opposing sides of a valley. She ignores the feeble stares and whispers from the retinue of suits and high stars guiding that squadron of the IJA, with a crow eating at a Warrior-Class' eye sockets for a patch.

"Perhaps your concerns were not entirely misplaced, Shion," Maya admits with dry lips as she exits the entanglement of fences and glares, all the checkpoints back to the street.

Hopping onto the Humvee and starting the engine, she takes another moment to stare at the distant ship and offer a prayer to it before taking her leave.

Within the narrow halls of the vessel, Mion and Shion follow directions and directives of the UN crew while being read on the specifics of the mission, their role to play, and the schedule of the ship and coming meetings during the voyage. Halting the speech and showing their briefing spared no detail, the cousins answer yet unspoken queries then thank in pretend the offer for a meal and ask to be guided to their bunk. Although tensed the string of conversation and gazes remain, no arrow is shown from either side so the salute exchanged is, at the least, honest to some degree.

Once the UN official nods and leaves, with a sigh they enter the cramped room with steel plating as walls, floor and roof that would refuge them during the travel. A sardine would feel right at home in such a constricted space.

Speaking of constricted spaces, as such do the cousins' throat aim to be as if groped by dry ice from within. Their bags, both holding clothes and equipment, slip from their fingers and fall with a hard thud. The door whirs and closes on its own, piercing their backs with hollow spears. But their eyes, oh, their eyes burn so along their ears, trapped in the rebounding echo caused by the small, claustrophobic bunk.

"-stay until summer ends? Shelter me, for one second more…" so the soft, melodic voice whispers with closed eyes.

Soft is not the assault onto her naked backside, which was facing the cousins. Kneeling on the floor, an arm raises and bends back, sending a belt with many, many thorns. A demonic vine of hellish roses. It paints the silky skin for a canvas full of vermilion rivers.

"Night claims the skies," she chirps, nibbling at her bottom lip as the whip smacks again.

It trickles, the red until it corrodes the lower pants and splashes onto the metal. And yet it tickles, going by the chuckles she gives out upon repeated motions.

"Around me, only lies. Too deep in the ice-"

Shocking shivers compulse the body to spasms lightly when the roses brush their crimson over the back, thorns divesting the canvas of petals. Raking and raking, softly and evenly, unearthing faint mines in the flesh, gentle streams turn to savage rapids.

"-so lost to your eyes," she drawls out as the tongue slurs out off the lips, leaking a trail of saliva. Wiping her chin and panting, her eyes veer to a side, noticing a shadow. Noticing the cousin's paling and revolting complexions. "Oh… It has been a long time, Tsukuyomi cousins," Kurama Kotori says with a nod in monotone, before whirring the whip to kiss and nibble at her backside. She coos again through pressed lips, eyes fluttering fully white for a second.

"Why the fuck did we have to be assigned to the same room as you, psycho?" Shion braces, taking point.

"Because we are the only women within the Imperial officers. Mmh! Ahh…"

"Can you please stop that, Kurama?" Mion requests, hiding her eyes from the sight. Her shiver continues, for the rough smacking sounds do too.

"Why would you be bothered? Do you not wish to join me? Mmh!"

"Who would flay themselves in such way, you psychopath?!" Shion roars from pitless lengths, to avoid anything but words to flee her throat.

SLAP! WHACK!

"Well, this is- Gasp… a punishment I must bear. For allowing myself to become a pawn of the UN Farces. Would you not, mmh, agree, Tsukuyomi?"

"…You're insane. Urgh…"

"I am loyal."

SMACK!

"By the Emperor, must you continue doing such to yourself?!" Mion asks with closed eyes, tight hands shaking. "Stop this, please… We've a mission to complete, if only for your own honor…"

"…If it bothers you so much, I suppose this shall be enough," she sulks, dropping the drenched whip-belt and standing to retrieve a gauze and a medical bottle from her own belongings. "May I ask if you've received any special orders?" she asks, sitting and tilting down to reach to the wounds.

"Could you kindly place some modesty on your person first?" Mion asks, moving to the opposite bed to leave her bearings, steps and breaths heavy.

Shion chooses to remain standing, silently glaring at Kurama.

Who coos softly as the medicine lightly burns at her fresh scars. "Why would it bother you? We've shared a changing room and a shower plenty of times. Is some skin enough to ruffle your feathers?" she asks with a small grin, jiggling her small hills and the crimson flowers littering them.

"Watch your tongue, Fudai," Shion warns, cracking her knuckles and stepping closer. "I'll beat some proper manners into your skull if you keep this jest up, since you seem to covet pain so."

"I don't see what is the problem, truly," Kurama simply shrugs. "You've seen me in worse shape than this. You've been much worse, in fact, seeking such punishments of your own volition, if I recall?"

Shion grits her teeth until it hurts, then faces away. "Fuck yourself, Kurama…"

"…Why- Why would you want me to masturbate in front of you? That's disgusting."

"Wh- That's not what I meant!"

"You quite literally told me to pleasure myself right now. I did not know you favored women."

"I don't! It's an insult, you dolt! Did you get brain damage recently or what?"

"…You should know, we both flew during Shura's Dance after all," she says with a giggle, tip of a finger by the lips. "Why do you think I water my memory so?" she asks with a tilt of her head, a hand resting onto and slowly rubbing the whip. "Would you want to reignite your own, perhaps?"

"You son of an eldritch bitch… I cannot believe I once called you a fellow…"

"The feeling is mutual, for shame. Anyways, I shall cover myself if it disturbs you so," she edges into the bed, retrieving a simple tanktop. Plopping her head through it, she peeks at them both. "By the by, did you receive any directives for this exercise?"

"Nothing that wasn't already present in the briefing, no," Mion says, slowly unbuttoning her red overcoat. "Why do you ask?"

"…No reason, I simply wanted to know if we were all holding the same orders," she says, then throws herself belly down onto the bed, continuing to patch the leaking wells on the shoulders. "I assume, they know not of the petition to clip the pigeon's wings lest they'd have tried to inquire on it. It means they also do not know about this 'Takeshi', either… I should report this intel gap to the Captain soon."

Shion heaves a sigh, climbing to the bed above Mion's and leaving her bag there. Also undoing her overcoat and stashing her formal dress, she changes into simple fatigues along Mion as befitting of their current task as leased personnel. As they do so, a rumble and a notice comes through the speakers. Soon, the ship was to sail away.

To shallow waters their minds take off, not aided by the suffocating air of the small room in their wait for a call to action or a meeting. But it does not come, not even as the gentle shaking of motion is felt through the steel.

Time seems to bleed away at a snail's pace within that small can, almost making those pale eyes to close shop with the tick tocks as the background noise.

Almost, because a soft coo pokes at their ears.

"Hey, come back, come over… Sing me a fossil's song-"

"Kurama, shut the fuck up," Shion warns.

"What? I'm only singing to myself," she protests, curled atop her bunk.

"Could you please be silent?" Mion asks, giving a curt nod. "We did not get much sleep these last few days."

"Hmm… I see. So sleep has divested itself of mercy for you as well, huh…"

And so, for a moment, silence returns to the room. Save for Kurama's light humming that continues for a moment.

She watches the roof, hands tensing behind her head. "I wonder if we'll make it to that island… What if a tsunami hits? This room could end flooded, if there's a storm the automatic lock will leave the door stuck. A magnetic failure could leave our equipment mostly unusable in the eternal monotony of waves… We truly are sardines in a can, aren't we, hehehe."

"…What are you laughing at?" Mion asks, observing the hand covering lips.

"Hm? Oh, it's nothing. I simply had a funny thought."

"A… funny thought?"

"Yes, we truly are sardines in a can. Look at this room," she sits on the bed, gesturing around to sturdy and dark gray. "We barely can stand shoulder to shoulder without groping each other, tiptoeing is enough to reach the roof, unless you're Shion."

"Watch it, Kurama."

"Hehe… What I'm getting at is, if there were a storm… much like sardines we wouldn't be able to escape this can of a room, hehe."

"W-What is-" Mion gapes, closing her eyes tight. "Do not say that, it is an ill omen to speak such things."

"It is? I've been having nightmares in that manner of late. Perhaps it is fate. The whip of the furious drizzle, the tilting and tossing of the ship, me being sent from a wall into the next like a sack of rice, the tickling water burying my chin-"

"Kurama if you don't shut the fuck up, I'll whip your ass as badly as your back."

"…Why my bottom specifically?" she asks, tilting her hips to look at them and making Mion look away in flushing sigh.

Shion simply scoffs fire. "Then shut up. It would be impossible for us to drown…"

"I find speaking out my fears allows me to handle them better, is all." Now that no one else will lend an ear, I only have myself…

"Are you… afraid of the sea?" Shion asks, looking down at Kurama.

Who shrugs, messing with her short, sharp diagonally-shaped fringe. "Not afraid, no, I am no coward. It has been a recurring nightmare of mine for some time, is all. Perhaps, I do need some sleep as well," she admits, slowly curling into a ball again.

And yet while her eventual rest comes with ease, the cousins find no respite.

The eternal sameness of the sea, a wasteland of blue above and below. The rolling of the steel beneath, the roaring of thunders ahead. Lights fading and equipment returning only error beeps or nothing at all, blank death stares.

Within that small, narrow space it would seem the three of them were not allowed to have differing dreams. For the small alarm calling for a meetup of the crew almost sent their hearts to leap out of their mouths, luckily finding air and dryness for their efforts but still tasting salt nonetheless.

---

Some moments later.

Back at the castle.

---

Recommended Music: Castle Zvahl, Final Fantasy XI.

---

Oh, what pleasant a day it is. A calm gust aids those patrolling, even those in small offices. Clouds taken in rout allow the golden daylight to reach all equally.

Or so it should be, but some talks and tea later would find a small, lavish office submerged fully in sickly gray as if it were the frontline trench of a Hive assault. Only, rather than the 991 alarm there was a devious chuckle ringing out.

"Apologies, but I'm afraid you ask too much of me, Tsukuyomi," a soft knuckle to the chin, Ikaruga softly smiles as bright as the sunshine falling from the windows behind his desk. That small, insufferable smile of his returns not a hair of warmth to the two standing in front. "Quite audacious of me it would be, to assign the coming units to any other than our most important fellows."

Maya gives a minute nod, moving not an inch from her stoic form in attention. "I am aware, but there's plentiful roads available to navigate this request."

"Oh, for example?" he asks, leaning a bit onto his desk and eyeing the papers.

"The youngest of my House are still piloting Zuikaku units. I believe they've done enough to warrant recognition, even if what Takemikazuchi is there to spare are required for our squadron," Maya says, still as a pillar. "A proper return of pleasantries for the Shogun's blessing to your request."

Ikaruga chuckles, toying with some papers to the other end of the desk, empty forms of induction. "I wouldn't be opposed to granting them 1C units considering their talents, if they're open to partake in our training drills. With you here, I'm certain those two will quickly become accustomed to the Horns."

Maya holds her breath and expression at bay, unblinking. "Ikaruga-sama, sir, I am stationed here as a gesture of fellowship. Mine relatives are to serve the Koubuin fellowship, their station so demands. What would you say should I request the youngest Makabe to join the Blood squadron?"

"Oh… Yes, that would place me in quite the conundrum. Hahaha, the scolding would know no end, truly," he laughs as bountiful as the cheery weather, making both Maya and Fujiwara share a downcast gaze and sigh. Ikaruga, however, sharpens his smile. "I will keep your suggestion in mind, Maya. I hadn't thought about it but according to my intel, our dear Mana seems to be… susceptible to young men, indeed." After shuffling some papers, he nods back. "In any case, I'm afraid your terms are too high for me to meet, Tsukuyomi."

Fujiwara steps forward, bowing in arc to stare at the desk and nowhere else. "Ikaruga-sama, milord, could you kindly reconsider? The report I've readied shows which fellows are hustling to earn recognition, and would befit the Shiranui 1C the most. Rewarding them should hint at what you expect from us all, and incite all equally to redouble our efforts."

"Hmm… So you agree with Tsukuyomi's argument, 1st Lieutenant?" he slowly asks, leaning back into the sunshine showering his back.

"Yes, milord. Our signatures are present in the documentation, no?"

"…If so then, what results could someone left in clerical duties forward to earn your notice, I wonder?" he asks as he lifts the papers, a finger crushing the name in question.

Maya coughs, shortly nodding down as she stands besides her 2IC under the glare. "It was mine suggestion, Ikaruga-sama. Surely you remember Cpt Amato's exploits during the invasion and the subsequent reconquest of the mainland. She dominated the Shiranui 1C like few ever did, in my opinion only bested by none other than the Reaper Jinguuji." And her own Leader, of course… Although it is unfair to compare Raiko-sama, or anyone with a demon.

Ikaruga softens his hand, joining them as he watches them both in apathy, bored. "I see… Sadly, as curious as I am, I cannot allow this."

"…May I ask why, sir?"

"It's simple enough, Tsukuyomi. Those training in Kitanomaru must follow our doctrine, to excel as much as we of the Horns do. This rookery must produce Imperial Guards that could match, nay, put to shame our exploits for the years to come. It is our ideal, to one day have all of us with Takemikazuchi units, or their successor, and to stray from this would cause a rift in our ranks. That, I cannot allow. This duty was entrusted onto me by His Highness Saionji-sama and supported by Her Highness Koubuin-sama. Treason to it is treason of the highest order against the Empire. Surely you are aware, 1st Lt Tsukuyomi?" he asks, low, grinning small and twisted, as twisted as the report ends under his firm grip.

Maya bows further, eyes closing. "However, as stated before, Cpt Amato has been proposed as the one to instruct the squadron of trainees you had requested, sir," she says, gesturing to the reports. "Granting her a new unit would serve as a sign from you, of welcoming the offer and her presence."

Ikaruga picks them up with a few fingers, slow as a snail, slower he pretends to read them in boredom. "Hmm… Mmh… I did not think you'd convince Her Highness of this notion, truly. And sending a High Shinpan no less…"

"It took me much to arrange this, sir," Maya says, bowing along Fujiwara. "I am aware my stated terms come with their risks, yet I believe the rewards would outweigh them. Could you please reconsider?"

"I see… Perhaps you hold some reason. However, few are the 1Cs Kyoko-sama will release to the castle. I cannot bestow them to your relatives if they won't join Kitanomaru, that is final."

"…Regrettable, but I understand."

"And sadly, I also cannot welcome Cpt Amato from receiving one as well," he finishes with a grin, Maya's sharp return to upright position turns it into a smirk, a chuckle. "My, why the surprise, Tsukuyomi?"

"Sir, I believe there are few other instructors which could rival Cpt Amato in skill, with due respect," she says, taking one step forward.

Which further makes Ikaruga chuckle, leaning forward. "Oh, on that we do agree, Maya. However, her doctrine is… rather drastic, no? I know not if she would lead the rookies to what would easily integrate into our ranks as I said. Left with a Zuikaku, she would employ moderation and welcome our courses with ease. With a Shiranui 1C, however? I fear the Red Lightning may strike loose again. Even I could become a recipient for it as a scarecrow of sorts, hahaha!"

"Ikaruga-sama, please," Maya deadpans as she bows again, nibbling at lips and clenching fists. "My report holds the meetings I've shared with her and what courses she would plan to employ. Cpt Amato should have already filed the documentation on this matter, no? Is this not enough to show the commitment the House of the Shogun hoists towards your proposal and Kitanomaru at large?"

"Yes, I am not denying that. And honestly, I am thankful for your devoted service to me, Tsukuyomi," he gives a softer smile, almost charming, if not for the current topic keeping Maya in stoic gray. So Ikaruga shrugs short, leaning back and spinning on his large chair. "But as it happens, I also had some talks with Cpt Amato. And they were not… pleasant, actually."

"What? I was not aware of such." Why did she not mention anything, when welcoming our talks so? To show your commitment through the answers on my reports?

"Of course you weren't, Makabe has been handling those negotiations," Ikaruga spins back, still smiling. "Should this friction be lifted and some assurance Cpt Amato will follow our courses to the letter be given to us, I wouldn't mind accepting some of your propositions. Until then, however, my answer will remain the same," he concludes and waves down, Maya simply bows down and closes her eyes tight.

Watching it, holding her breath deeply then nodding to herself, Fujiwara steps forward, raising from the bowing position. "Ikaruga-sama, should we dally in the arrangement, the 1C units will be distributed according to the previously agreed rosters?"

"Hm? Yes, of course. Why?"

"Well, my report shows some of your… chosen have not fought in many moons as well. And they have never piloted a 1C with its custom OS active. Analyzing their piloting quirks is what led me to suggesting the list of candidates forwarded, sir. Please," she bows down, deep, "is there no manner in which we could gain your agreement, even if partial?"

"No. While your report is appreciated, perhaps now is not the time to put it to action," he dismisses, sending papers back to the desk. "Decent effort, I'll say. We have more quality snipers that I thought within our inductees. Perhaps a few courting rounds are in order… Makabe can present this paper later in a meeting with other fellowships, so that we gain further renown for forwarding such an initiative. A small reward will pacify Fujiwara, I'm sure," he notes, stashing the report in the folder but saving it in one of his drawers instead of returning it to its maker.

Fully aware of the outcome, not being the first time in her career either, Fujiwara steps back a few times as she tightens her hands, unable to withstand the pressure of the leash, the small cracks in her stomach. "So not even my best efforts are worth direct recognition from you, milord? Hours analyzing flight patterns and tactics, there's so much you clearly have not even read. Siiigh… I had thought this direct promotion into a Fudai, to bring me into the Horns under your wing was a sign of expectations and trust. Clearly, I was but a fool… Indeed, nothing but a dumb dog…"

Noticing the downcast cracks, Ikaruga clears his throat, forwarding a smile basking in the sunshine to masquerade any light. "Your efforts do not elude me, Lieutenant. The timing is an ill one, that is all. Such hawkeye detail will be rewarded, when I deem appropriate this report to be followed upon. I am awaiting the coming updates with bated breath, 1st Lt."

"Is that so… You honor me, Ikaruga-sama," she says, just that, nodding down. "I won't settle for 'a treat' as a reward no matter what setbacks you forward. My House will clear its name, even if it takes me years to do so, even if it is not through your hand. I'll despair after I perish…"

"Ahem… Tsukuyomi, Fujiwara, I comprehend your position," he says, flattening the papers, eyeing the two of them. "This haste denotes compromise, of course, but we cannot rush so. If I could impose, perhaps you could convince Cpt Amato to have a personal meeting with me? I'm certain we could banish what misunderstandings lay between us with some cups of tea."

She nods, tapping her glasses, tensing a bit. "Yes, of course. If so, I'd ask to be present to act as a bridge between your postures. I'm certain we can debate the matter and convince you of what reports we've forwarded."

"Hm? Plural, is it? I had said Fujiwara's paper came with ill timing, but relinquishing one unit is not beyond my means."

"…And I had given my agreement to her proposal, as her flight commander. If you would deny us, then I shan't press further," she says, quietly bowing. Then giving a minute gaze to the shocked Fujiwara, who quickly joins her gesture.

Ikaruga sighs inwards, hands locking as his sight staunchly in denial. And tensing all the more when they remain still, waiting. It dries his mouth and throat.

"It is a first, indeed. I had ordered you to mingle with Maya, but I did not expect such a setback to occur… But perhaps this, too, is a good omen. You now are willingly mingling with us Horns without me prompting you to, Maya. It took me long, and it would be a waste to stomp on this seedling… Since you two want to be together so badly, why don't we take cards to make it permanent, heheheh?"

Slowly, he reaches out to the papers, about to dismiss the posture and lunge forth in a snare for a smile. However, rough shouts echo into the office from outside. While rather spaced at first, the words entangle and become indistinguishable from a rave singing some drunken song, but far more upset. Maya and Fujiwara dispel their tension, looking at Ikaruga in concern for orders.

He's almost pouting, a finger rubbing the twitching brow that does not stop. "Whoever that was ruined the atmosphere… I had the words proper and ready, too…"

"Ikaruga-sama, should we step outside and check what the commotion is about?" Fujiwara asks, bowing slightly.

"Sigh… I suppose. I hope this is not about the patrols once again," he says, deflating onto his chair.

Fujiwara nods, salutes and marches to the door, waving a negative to Maya as she glances at the still sour Regent.

Maya nods back, folding both arms behind her back and, back to attention, gives her own to the owner of the large regal room, whose current expression was anything resembling such.

"…Is something the matter, Ikaruga-sama?"

"Oh, nothing… I tire of these discussions, Tsukuyomi. It is mathematically impossible to assign non-inductees the same patrolling hours to those of the inductees, our numbers simply do not align. I myself would have to partake in the efforts to that end… Actually, that might be more enjoyable than stamping papers all afternoon…"

"Ikaruga-sama, do not begin again," she repines, rubbing her temple. He chuckles heartily, causing further sighs of her. "Is there nothing you can think of to placate the inductees?"

"Well, I admit Fujiwara's suggestion is an apt way to that end. But then, our fellow nobles would request other boons. I was considering a possible courting session, but then again, we've ample proof those of the olden Houses would see it as an insult."

"…And those from the New Zaibatsu would not wish to return to the base of the totem pole, indeed."

"Exactly… Siiigh. It would be easier if one of our best was of common descent, to marshal all the troop behind them as a banner of fellowship. But such a champion has sadly not appeared, and so, there is little I can do but withstand the tide… Is it not as severe in your fellowship?" he asks, honestly, gazing at her while giving proper order to the reports.

Yet Maya looks down, sealing lips, not taking air. "You should remember the losses we suffered during Shura's Dance and the Fall of Yokohama… While it is not a perfect situation, many of us do see each other as comrades in arms regardless of the color of our station."

"Truly? May I ask how? Is the Shogun's charisma the secret?"

"…One could say so, yes. It becomes easier to endure the toll when your own Leader relinquishes flesh and blood alongside you." Even to the point of perishing to safeguard another… "Honestly, the root of it all was Lucifer."

"Oh… I see. I was there myself, so I can understand how-"

Further shouts pervades the office again, Fujiwara's voice attempting to pacify right outside.

"…Sigh. Tsukuyomi, kindly allow them entrance. It is for the best I handle this matter myself," he says, hand to forehead.

"Yes, sir," she says, moving to the door. Upon opening it however, she flinches away in front of sparking eyes. "What… Raiko-sama, whatever are you doing here?"

"Oh? 1st Lt Tsukuyomi, good afternoon to you," she says, saluting as she douses the thunders roaring.

Maya mimics the marshal posture, the salute. "Good afternoon, Captain. What business have you here?"

"This," Raiko frowns at a folder, stamped with the Makabe House's burgundy emblem. "I've quite the matters to discuss with Ikaruga… -sama, and so I tried to request audience."

"You started shouting your way into the halls," a Tozama garbed in white repines.

"Only because you refused to acknowledge my petition while I was being guided here then blockaded my path," she says, nodding in thankfulness to a young inductee quivering by a wall. "There were no issues when I first asked to be taken here, until those of you decided to make a scene."

"There are forms that must be kept, ma'am, regardless of your rank."

"This is matter needs to be clarified, and I cannot take a no for an answer even if I must wait until late for even some minutes. What part of that did you not understand?"

"Cpt Amato, please," Maya appeases, nodding down at the flock of Guards feebly glaring at Raiko, and the few who nod down in apology further back. "You're attracting unwanted attention and disturbing the offices."

"If you must know, I offered to leave a written letter were a meeting be impossible to arrange. But then," she glares at an inductee, who steps back, "they had the audacity to lay their hands upon me. So of course I raised my voice at such an unwarranted slight."

Maya glares into the hall, Fujiwara nodding to the unspoken query and pointing with her jaw at other inductees and a Tozama at the front of the repining line. What venoms were about to burst, however, remain within when hearing footsteps behind.

Ikaruga brushes Maya's shoulder with a hand, stepping into the hall, causing most to bow into petrification. "I've heard what has happened. You've my apologies, Captain."

"…Apology accepted. When may I gain audience with you, Ikaruga-sama?" she requests, with a faint bow.

"Well, why not immediately?"

"Pardon?"

"Fujiwara, see that those who offended the Captain are set to review our code of conduct," Ikaruga says with a thin, cold smile, glaring into the hall and spotting a few quivering boots, it widens the smile into frost.

The Fudai nods to the command, signaling a few who spit baseless curses under their breath before making their way down the hall. Fujiwara briefly glances back at Maya, who returns a subtle nod, returned before the 2IC gets to her orders.

"The rest of you, try and not make a scene next time," Ikaruga commands, shaking his head. "Think on what could have happened were I not present. You know I will receive word, even if not immediately. It is unbecoming to dismiss other fellows through such coarseness, no?" he says, all others immediately nod down and then are dismissed, instantly vanishing to their duties, seeking the Sun for comfort. "Allow me to reiterate the apology, Cpt Amato," he offers with another charming smile, tilting his head.

Raiko simply nods, silent.

"Now then, let us go inside. 1st Lt Tsukuyomi and I were just debating some subjects which may interest you," he says, leading the way into the office.

"Oh?" she eyes Maya, who gives a downcast nod in apology.

"…Apologies for involving you in my woes, Cpt Amato."

"Don't. I assume… my timing was fortunate," she says, nodding upwards with narrow eyes into the lavish suite.

Maya sighs and nods while closing the door, then walks until she stands side by side with Raiko. "Would you like to sit?"

"If you remain standing, so will I."

"My, such a show of fellowship," Ikaruga smiles as he sits and interlocks his hands, nodding. "Would you favor some tea, perchance?"

"It is alright, Ikaruga… -sama. Should I begin or would you wish to inform me on the talk you were having?"

"Hmm… I assume you're here for some matters tied to what we were discussing. I believe, you've received our counteroffer for you to be assigned as the instructor of the new squadron of trainees."

"W-What? Ikaruga-sama, you mentioned nothing about this!" Maya repines, stepping forward.

"Peace. I had said some meetings were held with Cpt Amato, and the result was that we deemed it necessary for her to offer something in return of the boon."

"But she has- Wait, but you were not aware she was forwarded as the instructor on our end…" Maya blinks, lips parting a bit then gazes at Raiko.

Who sighs, heavy, and shakes her head. "I supposed so from our last talk…"

"Wait, you knew?!"

"I thought you were aware, only began to doubt it slightly yesterday," she deflects. "As you see, Ikaruga-sama approached me with the proposition to lead one of the new trainee squadrons he wished to host in Kitanomaru. Some queries on my performance and tactics were forwarded, and due to my meetings with you I thought the approval was all but signed. But as you can see," Raiko frowns as she slowly slips the papers off the folder, stamped in a burgundy seal as well. Her finger points to the line detailed the rejection of her services. "It would seem my wings will remain clipped, 1st Lt Tsukuyomi?" she asks, staring, sparking away.

Maya dries her mouth, giving a minute bow. "This eluded my notice. As it were, I was defending our accord moments ago."

"Hmm… I see," she says, gazing tight thunders at the one softly chuckling. "May I hear the motives behind this notion?"

"Oh, my. Were you interested in the position, Captain? If so, you won't deny me a small show of fellowship, correct?"

"There are other negotiations tied to this matter, where I've bent the knee and I may no longer. Could you kindly detail what failings I displayed to earn a negative, sir?" she asks, bowing yet maintaining eye contact.

Ikaruga smirks, resting his chin on entwined fingers. "Oh, you've displayed nothing of the sort. Both Tsukuyomi and you have raised valid points that, in any other situation, would have had me thinking the proposal too good to be true. Having such a talented a fellow as you, the Red Lightning of Shura's Dance no less, working in Kitanomaru would, and still is an honor to me. Alas," the back of a hand reaches to a cheek, he veers to a side on the chair, staring out the window yet retaining not a speck of shine, "the timing is most awful. The most recent incursion revealed the cracks still present in our armies, the need for us of the IRG to ignite our complete might. As I said to Maya moments before," he sighs, palming his heart softly to appease non-existent tears, "I am honor-bound to produce the best soldiers I am able. And as fabled as it is, your doctrine is also… infamous within our ranks. I fear some in the IJA and the UN even yet would cower at the mention of your moniker," he grins back at them both, facing them at ease.

Raiko narrows her eyes, glancing at Maya's burned gaze, then clears her throat. "And I had stated my line-piercing tactics are not the sole mantra I follow. They're a particular method I favor, but not the sole card in my possession."

"Oh, but then, if I am not welcoming the Red Lightning, would you truly be a superior alternative to some of my vassals?"

"…Did any of them survive a Divison-sized herd piloting a Zuikaku, sir?"

"Could you, without your fabled doctrine and after so long away from the frontlines?"

"I offered a mock battle to clear any doubts held on my claims. After all, I understand your reticence since I've not fought in a long time," she says, sight narrowing along breaths, tickles to the base of her neck, "but my sword has not dulled, of that you can be certain."

"Is that so. Could you tell me when was the last time you partook in battle, if it isn't classified?"

"Sigh… You should remember, Ikaruga-sama," Maya answers as she taps her glasses, sparing a calming gaze to the pyre of sparks. "It was over a year ago, when Cpt Amato saved Takatsukasa-sama from a group of Forts as she shielded the escape of her troop."

"Oh… Yes," he inhales deep, closing his eyes and bringing true pulchritude, true stillness to his features as he straightens his sitting posture. "Now I remember… I could not believe my eyes when that melting Zuikaku was brought to the hangar… I suppose, Tsukuyomi's accolades to your prowess were indeed fair," he nods yet solemn, Maya doubly so back at Raiko.

"It is nothing, truly…" Even to this day, I cannot match what he expected of me. Perhaps that's why you decided to fight alone in Lucifer… No, now's not the time to wallow in regrets. "Ahem… Would there be a way to change your decision?"

"Hmm… Do you think yourself able to teach your doctrine to our rookies?"

"Huh? I, uh… Is it imperative?"

"It would be an impressive boon no one could question, if I am to meet your and Tsukuyomi's requests. For your information, she has been pushing to grant you a Shiranui 1C rather than a Zuikaku," he says, eyeing both with a smile.

"Oh, is that so?" Raiko brings a hand to her chin, eyeing Maya sideways and nodding subtly.

Maya taps her glasses as she clears her throat, maintaining eye contact. "I believed your abilities would display the motives behind choosing you for the task, and thus drive away any possible critics."

"I see, understandable. I suppose, if you echo this opinion, I would not mind… sharing my techniques with my pupils."

"…Huh? Truly?" Maya asks, blinking fast for a moment. "She never acquiesced to the notion, not even when Shion got on her knees and begged after Takeru's death…"

"If there is a matching spoil for my efforts, of course," Raiko says, somberly glancing back at Ikaruga, taking a step forward. "These techniques were honed during the invasion, with the sweat and blood of my fellows, many of which perished for these spoils. I will teach them to my pupils, yet what would you tribute in return, Ikaruga-sama?"

"…The assured funding of your project, Captain. The voting is two to two, and many yet doubt your account to turn those small flagellates into edible consumables. Lend me your strength, and I shall do my utmost to match. I know you've been reticent to believe in my words for many moons, whatever your reasons may be, but let this be the day when we let the past stay in the past, forevermore," he offers with a smile as he stands, raising a hand.

Raiko remains still, narrowing eyes. "There is more to this, isn't there?"

"Ahaha… As sharp as Tsukuyomi, indeed," interlocking his hands again, Ikaruga chuckles, all the more upon the other two's tightening expressions. "You see, Tsukuyomi herself requested another proposal to be accepted along your position as instructor…"

"Ikaruga-sama, this is not fair of you," Maya counters, halting the step forward but faintly frowning. "What Fujiwara and I presented were our own proposals, Cpt Amato has forwarded proof of her own to-"

"Oh, that I cannot do," he whimpers, again softly placing a hand in the crack of his neck. "Were I to do that, Fujiwara would certainly believe you've turned your back to her woes…"

"…What is this about?" Raiko asks, trading glances from Maya to the one chuckling low in dramatic gestures.

"Oh, you see Captain, one of Tsukuyomi's fellows here presented a most proper report to assign a few Shiranui 1C units to some of my pilots on metrics she honed well. Fujiwara, the Fudai that came out to the hall before we did, also supported your appointment to the new squadron as well as the notion of bequeathing a 1C to you. In turn Tsukuyomi supported her proposal, going as far as stating she would not accept her own to pass if her fellow's was rejected. As you can see, this is quite the conundrum. I would be elated to welcome you to my camp, alas, not at the expense of the fellowship between 1st Lt Tsukuyomi and her trusted 2IC, no," he says, chuckling low while leaning back, bathed in sunlight masking the small horns.

Maya wrings her hands, taking in a breath and giving an apologetic nod to Raiko, waving the white flag as she steps back.

Raiko, however, holds the chuckling eyes while moving not an inch. Before slowly lowering her back into a modest bow. "Would there be a way to convince you to grant both proposals, Ikaruga-sama, sir?"

Maya twitches, eyes widening upon the gesture. In front of that, Ikaruga smirks while constricting his interlocked fingers further, as if to grant eternal rest to a wounded bird. "My, how honorable of you… But yes, there are ways I could be swayed to an affirmation. Perhaps you could aid them, Captain?"

"Ikaruga-sama, please," Maya steps forward, not halting upon the striking, displeased gaze. "To demand spoils in such way is certain to ring-"

"1st Lt Tsukuyomi," Raiko softly says, pulling at a sleeve, nodding down at Maya, "please, allow me. You've given me bountiful gestures of fellowship, even that Fudai did so without having to. I am merely returning the favor, is all. State your terms, Ikaruga," she says, nodding at him. "…-sama," she adds, upon Maya's glare and soft coughing.

And yet he chuckles and smirks like a kid lost in a shopping spree on a mall, like those that today were watching the rails. When someone takes the leap, that is.

"…I would be interested in learning from your technique myself, but alas, I cannot prioritize my own curiosity over the training of the new Guards. I also know you've other, more pressing duties to tend to. So I'd like to ask for your piloting data and records, specifically the ones when you piloted a Shiranui 1C during 1999."

Maya's innards fall, she tastes salt all of a sudden. It floods her as Raiko relents a nod, a deep one. "…Raiko-sama, are you certain of this?"

"If it is this or nothing, and you would welcome the gesture, I shall bend the knee," she says, holding the stare.

Leaving Maya under its sparking as well as Ikaruga's. What cold hands tug and pull at Maya would compel her to shake her head and stand her ground. The incoming sunshine brightening the emblem of the Koubuin House in a banner which she sees in a corner, however, submerge it all.

"Our goal is to protect the people, to restart the development of the Second and guarantee the food plants to begin their final stage of development… My feelings are irrelevant, I can't repay Raiko-sama's gesture with dissidence," Maya sighs inwards, taking a step back and giving a deep relinquishing bow, remaining as such. Hiding the grimacing, the nibbling of lips.

Raiko smiles and nods back at Maya, sharpening her posture and glare when meeting Ikaruga's low chuckling. "Let this be a show of my commitment," she says as she steps back to Maya's side, lowering herself into an equally deep, equally pliant bowing posture. "Would you have any other requests to forward, Ikaruga-sama?"

"Since we're debating it, would you welcome joining in our training drills while you oversee the trainees? I'd relish the chance to spar with you, and the same for the rest of the Horns."

"…It shall be an honor, sir," she answers in monotone, still, unlike Maya who slightly quivers.

"Perfectly perfect, then. Well, the only other request I have is for you to not argue with my fellows on the meetings for the food plants. As I said, if you do share your knowledge with us openly, I myself shall ensure your funding remains constant and bountiful. The board simply want you to include them in the process, is all. If you see Maya as a fellow, and Fujiwara could be one for you, then the rest of us Horns are the same, Cpt Amato."

"…Thank you for your words. You're most kind, sir. I'll ensure to hold a lengthy talk with my… fellows then."

"That is good to her, indeed, hehe. If you would favor it, I can support your return to active duty once your project enters its final stages. I believe you had done a revision of the 1C's OS at some point?"

"Eh? No, you must be mistaken…"

"Oh? Truly?" he asks, receiving a cracking nod from Maya, a somber one from Raiko. "I see…"

So Raiko simply remains still, bowing in place. "I doubt anyone would follow on those deranged design choices he forwarded onto his machine. And that has been lost alongside him anyways…"

"…But, I assume, you would not be opposed to partaking in active duty from time to time?" he pushes.

"Well, no, but I shall be focusing on my project later on. Did you have any suggestions?" she asks, eyeing Maya.

Who coughs and steps forward, frowning a bit. "Ikaruga-sama, you're not proposing Cpt Amato as one of the test pilots, are you?"

"Test pilots?"

"Oh, Tsukuyomi, as sharp as always! Whatever would I do without you," he chuckles, quivering a dramatic nod into the daylight.

Making Maya pinch her nose, hard, enough to leave red marks and have Raiko wincing. "Sir, please. Such talks should have to go through the council."

"But it is not for the best, to forward an agreement beforehand?"

"Could either of you enlighten me on what is this about?"

"Siiigh… He speaks of the XFJ Project. As it stands, we've lost all test pilots during the Yukon Incident. Then, the UN… threw some harsh words at the results we sowed, enough to make some of our fellows refuse to share the project back at them."

"Indeed, it was quite troublesome. Not even I could rein in Kyoko-sama's wraith at the state Takamura and her hard work were left in… And so, you see, the Shiranui Second may be fated never to spread wings again," he says, before leaning a bit forward into his desk, into the shade which blossoms into a smirk. "Much like you, Cpt Amato."

"Quite," she frowns, fuming from her nose as she folds her arms. "I assume, then, the initiative will be resumed as the Shiranui was before?"

"Oh, no," he shakes his head, chuckling again. "Our industries do not possess the funds for it. But perhaps the Shogunate could restart the development, in more modest numbers, to phase out the Zuikaku and relieve our costly Type-Zero from covering all of our members."

"…Ikaruga-sama, I've told you time and again this is courting with a controversy with the IJA. What will you tell them upon the fair critics?" Maya repines, taking a step forward.

Causing an abyss to spawn in the otherwise lax eyes, more so in the tone. "That if they covet the Second they'd be wise to allow us to employ the Fubuki. It is not my choice that we're still fielding the Zuikaku to the frontlines. And every drop of blood spilled, every inch of damage to the cities caused by this neglect does not rest in my hands," he nods, firm, until Maya steps back into a modest bow. Quickly then, he veers to Raiko with a shiny grin. "So, considering your expertise with the craft, I think you could be appointed as one of the new test pilots if you're interested, Captain. You have my vote, of that you can be certain. I assume, Kyoko-sama's too as well."

"Is that so… I am flattered, sir. However, I… cannot answer your proposal. I'd have to consult Her Highness beforehand."

"That is understandable, I wasn't expecting a formal resolution immediately. Simply for you to consider this option, since I'll be watching your exploits in Kitanomaru with great interest. If not, I'd appreciate a report on your views of the 1C to aid the project at this dire hour it has found itself in. Perhaps, could you have a talk with 1st Lt Takamura before she departs? I'm certain she'll appreciate it."

"I see…" Raiko eyes Maya, who relents a nod, she then does the same. "Very well, that is fair. You will give your agreement to 1st Lt Tsukuyomi and her 2IC's proposals?"

"…Yes, of course. Your offerings have tilted the balance in their favor. Again, I am elated to welcome such talented a fellow to our ranks," he stands, walking closer and offering a hand.

Raiko takes it, nodding at him. The handshake is soft, but not brief. Her hand is caged, her personal space breached as he leans ever a bit forward.

"…I will be keeping a close eye on your performance, Captain. Do surprise me with your work, and further rewards may be in your future."

"…Thank you kindly, Ikaruga-sama," she says, holding her breath to not fall to that sinkhole for a smirk parading as sunshine.

"Well, that shall be all," he says, letting go and taking a few steps back, chuckling at Maya's killer glare. "Haha, it gladdens me we could resolve this peacefully. I shan't keep you here overlong, I'm certain Fujiwara is awaiting you in the halls."

"…Yes, sir. Thank you for your time," Maya says, straightening her posture into a salute, Raiko follows suit.

Ikaruga nods at both, smirking as they turn to leave, the chuckling growing as he sits and spins away, enough to obscure the incoming daylight showering onto his features.

Slowly walking down the hall, Maya sighs heavy and gives a nod. "Apologies, Raiko-sama. I did not intend to have you genuflecting to his demands so."

"Don't, I've taken no offense, Tsukuyomi. I did what I thought was correct, nothing more," she says, shaking her head and avoiding the gentle cloak of daylight incoming, eyes still down.

"To be honest, I did not know Makabe was holding meetings with you. I should have been more clear in our talks," Maya whispers, stepping closer while taking glances, finding the hallway empty.

"No, the fault lies wholly on me…"

In front of the downcast cracks, Maya overtakes Raiko to stare into eyes, nodding with a brief smile. "I do thank you for your support, Raiko-sama. Were you ever to need anything, know that my hand is always available to you."

"I see… Thanks, Tsukuyomi. I only did what a fellow would, is all," she says, heavy as her steps. Maya nods and gives a feeble giggle, causing Raiko to gain a faint smile. "At least I could aid you somehow."

"You did more than required, Raiko-sama. I'm in your debt, so again, were you to need me to reciprocate all you have to do is ask," Maya smiles, edging closer, a hand moving slightly down before she twitches. Lips seal tight, she grabs her wrist and gulps, hard.

Raiko slows down, glancing back at the struggle against that hand. "Is something the matter, Tsukuyomi?"

"Huh? Oh, no, it's nothing… I am just, dizzy, yes. I've not had plentiful sleep today, is all," Maya nods to herself, clenching her hands quickly before resuming her walk. "Apologies."

"No, there's no reason to apologize," Raiko smiles, sighing when tagging along the walk. "And thank you for the offer, I shall call upon you if I ever require it," she says, giving a frontal nod as if gathering all shine in the hall.

Maya's lips whir for a moment, she then returns the nod as a hand moves, first in downwards aim before settling for a small hit to an arm. "It is but a small gesture of fellowship, truly. And you've done so much for me as of late, it would be odd I wouldn't recognize you as a close fellow of mine, Raiko-sama," she concludes with a strong nod, the gesture returned despite eyes losing themselves to the windows. "Such strong veneer, undaunted and lustrous even in front of such setbacks… How wonderful you are. Why did I not seek you sooner? What was wrong with me?"

And yet, those eyes lost on the windows cloud along a sigh. "It was nothing, truly… I simply acted accordingly."

"In any case, I believe I am free for the moment," Maya says, giving looks around then sighing at the emptiness of the hall."Would you need anything, Raiko-sama?"

"…Well, since I'll be coming here frequently from now on, perhaps you could read me on the proper etiquette of Kitanomaru. I'd like your… counsel so that I become accustomed to serving here as soon as possible."

"Of course, say less. I did notice you almost forgot an honorific back there," she notes, lips narrow as she taps her glasses. "But worry not, Raiko-sama. When I finish my tutelage, you shall be willingly singing only but the highest of praises to Ikaruga-sama such that no one would question you're a true fellow here."

"…Is that so. Appreciated, Tsukuyomi."

"Compliments are what most easily placates him, to be honest," Maya admits, hunching shoulders as Raiko remains in downcast posture.

"If such is your call, then I wouldn't have it any other way, Tsukuyomi. Tighten the leash around me until I bend the knee on instinct, like a dog," she squeezes through tight lips, wringing hands.

"…And this is why I exaggerate so. I won't deny that some do bark like dogs, but such words cannot slip through your lips. Shion has been doing much the same as of late," she says, shaking her head.

"I see… Sounds like she has been giving you quite the trouble."

"Oh, you've no idea. She actually insisted to join your 'new squadron' this morning."

"Truly?"

"Indeed. Forgive her if she approaches you for more sparring sessions now," Maya asks, giving a minute bow as they allow inductees to carry boxes and folders through the halls.

In that moment of stillness, watching the windows and a small shadow flickering beyond, Raiko sighs and relaxes, fingertips brushing her neck. "It is fine. Are you… opposed to them coming under me again?"

"Pardon? You would… welcome the notion?"

"Sigh… I am not who I was, Tsukuyomi. No need for such pungency."

"Apologies, that is not-" she stops, seeing other guards coming down the hall. Walking in silence for a moment, she then edges closer to Raiko. "You truly wouldn't mind tutoring them?"

"…If by relinquishing my power a path forward is carved, then I shall acquiesce. Would this be of use, Tsukuyomi?"

"Well, it would aid them regain their composure… May I ask such of you?" she asks, blinking upon Raiko's hesitance as she also edges closer, before twitching a bit upon the small, brief hit to one of her arms.

"…It is what fellows do, no? It shall be my pleasure to be of service, Tsukuyomi," Raiko nods down, a small and frail smile trying to lift off.

Maya nods in cheer back, smiling small as well. "Indeed… I never thought the day we'd serve together would come again."

"Siiigh… Neither did I. Also do stop with the honorific, Tsukuyomi. If we are to be fellows once more, it means we are equals, no?" she asks, low, lower the head which is not meeting the gaze.

"Thank you, Raiko-sa- Ahem. Then please do call me by name as well."

"So I shall, Maya. Let us hope the coming days smile upon our choices…" she whispers, slowing down, submerging further in cracks as she taps, claws at her neck.

Maya taps her glasses, a hand softly ruffling Raiko's nape in reassurance. "I'm certain our prayers will be met and our efforts rewarded, Raiko-sa- Urgh… Apologies."

"Pfft… It is just fine, Maya. Quite odd it is to see you fumble so, haha," Raiko chuckles, bright as the afternoon for a second.

It freezes Maya in admiration, narrowing lips and stomach, lost in the charming lilies and their perfume awash in daylight. For a moment she wishes to sink her face whole in that bountiful bouquet. "Ahem… It will take some getting used to, is all. In any case, would you be free as of now?"

"Yes, indeed. Could I tag alongside you, if it is no bother?"

"Sadly, Maya-sama cannot do that."

"Yes, I cannot- Wait, what? Yasomaga, again?!" Maya pinches her nose as Raiko flinches away.

Tsuhi remains still and apathetic, fluffy curls wilting slightly along his sleepy whisper for a voice. "Why do you say it so, Maya-sama? Is this humble shadow such an inconvenience?"

"No, I already said you're not. But why can you not approach us normally?"

"…I rather walk slowly, ma'am."

"Yasomaga, what- what are you doing here?" Raiko asks, folding her arms, tight, standing behind Maya.

"Oh, yes," he nods slow, eyelids lifting half-open as one would think he had just woken up. "Mana-sama has called for your presence in the Shogun's chamber, Maya-sama."

"Huh?! She's been discharged already?"

"Yes, it seems her report contains important intel to convey. Such is why she asked haste of me," he says, emphasized with a sigh and a wiping of his forehead. Before stepping closer and bowing down, the sleepy whisper lowering further. "Mana-sama said she requires your presence by the Shogun before her report can begin, it seems. Please do not dally, Maya-sama."

"I see… I will get to my orders, then. Raiko, please forgive this hasty-"

"Don't, Maya. Go, it must be grave indeed for such hurry to be asked," she nods, eyes closed as she walks backwards, compressing onto herself.

Maya simply nods deep, smiling small again. "Thank you. I will repay your gestures, soon. Yasomaga, are you coming with me?"

Not for now, no, heh… "I have other duties to tend to, ma'am," he says, giving a bow, eyeing the other one garbed in red.

Maya then returns a nod into a salute, smiling at Raiko before going her way to the exit. What eyes remain on the hall follow the other two, not even the sunshine can bask them in any warmth. Soon after, both Tsuhi and Raiko exit the camp and walk under the roofed path through the gardens.

At this time of year, most petals and flowers had already divested themselves of colors thanks to the post-war climate. A few yet remain enduring the colder winds, enjoying some of the last clear days of the year. Such pleasant scents billowing from both sides cause a smile in Tsuhi as he strolls ahead, watching the greenery. A sigh is hollowed up above, in the highest balcony, as the Shogun glances down while crushing the guardrail upon Mana's preliminary words with the perfume as her sole comfort.

However, Raiko remains glancing down, walking one step behind. Petrified in poker with short breaths, no flowery fragrance giving no respite.

"Such a beautiful day we are blessed by… Wouldn't you agree, Raiko-sama?"

"I suppose…"

"It is as if the Heavens were smiling upon our actions, finally taking our side after so many ill days buried in clouds."

"One could see it as such, yes."

"…Why would you be so gloomy, Raiko-sama? You achieved good results just now, did you not?"

"Did I? I… don't truly know anymore…"

"You did not look so disturbed when Maya-sama smiled charm your way, however."

She hits a pillar, finally looking up, sparking away. "Do not mock me, Yasomaga. You must be seeing things where there's nothing."

"…It is not nothing," he complains, sighing as he also stops walking. "She also smiled such at me earlier today, even slapped at my bottom then insisted me to return the gesture."

"P-Pardon?"

"Indeed, that is my line. But her gestures do tell I was correct, no? Maya-sama has always longed to be a close fellow of yours. Don't tell me you did not notice her curiosity, now," he asks, giggling soft as the breeze.

Raiko grits teeth for a moment, before letting every thread untangle as she hangs her head. "…Maya wasn't like this before."

"She was hiding within her ice mask, is all," he suggests in apathy, looking away. Before strolling closer to Raiko, smiling small. "In any case, are you not elated to regain some fellows, Raiko-sama? You should smile as charmingly as she did from now on, no?"

"…Forget that. What did Mana say?"

"You need not know."

"I will not stand by-"

"Raise your voice further and I will have to hide us both," he whispers, staring until she nods. Raiko simply walks backwards, eyes lost on swirling leaves as Tsuhi stands besides. "Mana-sama mentioned nothing, of course."

"And you expect me to believe you did not push for answers?"

"Oh, yes, I did," he nods slowly, fingers rubbing a brow to cast off the cocoon of slumber. It is not very effective. "Much like Maya-sama, she dislikes me 'appearing out of nowhere'. I asked her the same I did to Maya-sama earlier today, if she had seen a ghost…"

"And her answer was…"

"You should have seen her poor face," he smiles, eyes closing as he steps forward, tilting his face up into the sunshine. "I kept that up, asking if she had to chill, that she looked like a penguin in a desert, even that I would love for the opportunity to rest under a blossom's shade to rest properly… Yes, Raiko-sama, that is exactly the face she made, yes," he nods slow, clapping his hands.

Before Raiko lifts him by the collar, glaring yet wincing thunders at point blank. "Do you find this entertaining, Yasomaga?"

Without putting any resistance, enough to feel as dead weight, his closed eyes and low breathing would grant credence to the feeling. "Of course. Why would she feel such guilt, such sorrow as you do? You both already abandoned 'Takeshi' once. Or are you saying lightning never strikes twice, ma'am?"

"You dastard… What else did you say?" she asks, tightening the hold.

Seeing no effect for the effort. "…I mentioned how busy Yuuhi-sama has been, how good it'd be if she could bring auspicious news of Meiya-sama to Her Highness… How precarious would it be to darken our Sun's shine in these turbulent days… Hehe, yes, that same face exactly, Raiko-sama," Tsuhi nods, stumbling backwards as Raiko lets go.

"…And she said nothing?"

"I admit, it almost looked like she would cave in, request my ear in advice and then tell me every little detail. But Mana-sama is yet stronger than that, as one would expect," he notes with a nod, a faint smile as he fixes his dress, walking back close to Raiko under the roofed path. "Considering how close he and I were, I don't suppose anyone will tell me anything. What they expect me to ask is not something anyone desires."

And what you truly want is far worse… "But going from her reactions, that whispered intel w-wasn't mistaken?" she asks, the nod sends her gaze burning down as both hands cradle her heart as if it were a wounded pigeon.

"Mana-sama wouldn't have shown open cracks otherwise, although I cannot say what it is she surmised from her contact with this mystery cadet. How troublesome for us it is, that this 'Takeshi' appeared out of nowhere. Whatever shall we do if the intel were leaked?"

"…Any whispers you wish to share?"

Tsuhi walks around Raiko, stops to then lean back until his own backside rests fully onto hers. "Yoroi is still within the castle, and I've heard nothing besides what I told Maya-sama. That corpse should be departing for the CCSE, assumably."

"…Truly? Did Mana not mention anything, even a small thing?" she asks, breaths shallow.

He leans further onto her, rolling his nape over her shoulders. "Nothing, but she looked distressed to no end. I infer she could not bring herself to do anything conclusive," he admits with a shrug before walking off the path, sitting on the grass.

Raiko looks around before stepping into the sun, resting onto a pillar. "What of Yuuhi-sama?"

"Mana-sama had not disclosed anything when I arrived, going by Yuuhi-sama's demeanor. Yet by her complexion, it is obvious Mana-sama has not acted against this corpse for some reason…" he closes his eyes, tighter the hands as rakes the grass. Before throwing the strips up, chuckling slowly when gazing back at Raiko. "If only lightning would rain down, grant us a torch to see the way forward…"

"…What exactly do you mean? Can't a shadow like you survey the situation better than anyone else?"

"I could intrude on their privacy, yes, but I expect them to speak not a word from this to me, regardless of the resolution. He and I were close so I doubt Her Highness would wish to include me in the discussion, in fear of dissidence. The same of you."

"Then what has you saying I could-"

"We dogs favor walking along the moonlight, no?" he says, twirling grass blades on his fingers. "And she had just swore to accept any of your requests as a fellow."

"W-What? Maya wouldn't do such-"

"Fellows act in alignment, no? You are one who could easily aid their woes, no? And even if not, she can assuredly confide in you for the grave matter of this corpse."

"You would have me… manipulate her?"

"…No, my, of course not," he shakes his head, standing slowly as he flutters grass about. "You will lend her an ear, and in turn will gain us intel on what has the Shogun decided to do regarding this 'Takeshi'. Maya will lower her guard if you show her fellowship as you've been lately. Let her spank you if you must."

"Wh- Maya wouldn't do no such thing!"

"…She almost did it today, and you weren't entirely against mingling with her if your stares are any indication," he chuckles, again walking around her, whispering. "You were lost in curiosity around Maya-sama today, weren't you? You said nothing nor made any attempts to shield yourself in front of her devouring eyes… Is that love I smell in the air, Raiko-sama, mmh?"

"You dastard…" wringing her hands, she glares hell at him then punches the pillar. "If you think I've dulled in these years, you're sorely mistaken."

"…You said it already, your sword has not dulled. It won't break, because your duty it is to break other swords," he nods slowly, uncaringly staring at the sky while playing with his hair. "What clouds would befall you, if all those dented edges were unearthed into the sunshine. Whatever would poor Fujikagi-san do then, all alone and surrounded by rabid dogs?" he asks, hugging himself lethargically.

Biting lips so much that hurts, Raiko keeps the inner quake at bay despite the trembling becoming evident. "…Keep your word and I shall keep mine, Yasomaga. No need for such threats."

"Then, you will seduce Maya-sama into speaking?"

"Why must you word it in such way?! I… I don't hold no such intentions."

"Hehehe. Don't pay it much mind then. And our orders are absolute, Raiko-sama. You should know it better than me."

"Sigh… Yes, yes. All to allow our Lord Regent to move into the Sun, yes. I would still favor a chance to speak with Mana about this… walking dead man before committing to a move."

"…That could be arranged easily, if you obey your commands," he smiles, a hand roving her shoulder, tilting down his back to stare up into the thunders. "Maya-sama is set to oversee and parley for the coming delivery of Shiranui 1C units tomorrow morning. I expect Mana-sama will follow, if only to ascertain the Shogun's Type-Zero will be allowed to depart and to show support for her cousin's efforts."

"Is that so…" she says, fingers reaching to dismiss the roving gloved hand. "How do I play into this ploy of yours?"

"Ikaruga-sama wishes to further the 1C's development again, he was more than pleased with the results the Second was receiving. Such a crying shame the incident took place as it did," he wails with dry tears and a smile. "It is quite curious that the Shogunate is now the sole sponsor of the project. And bereft of the Fubuki when we need a replacement for the aging Zuikaku… We do need solid piloting data to iron out the 1C, however. Who, I wonder, has Ikaruga-sama in mind?"

"Siiigh… You want me to accept his proposal then?"

"Like a good dog, yes. Bend the knee to his every demand while you're in Kitanomaru. Maya-sama said as much, and you wish to sow fellowship with her, do you not?" he asks, fingertips poking at the nape, the end of her sharp lily hair.

Shaking, she can only nod down and endure the cracks. "Understood…"

Tsuhi nods slowly, resting down his hand to then clasp both together. "You had once refused to share your own piloting data and line-piercing doctrine before. Is your answer still the same, Raiko-sama, milady?"

"…I do not mind bending the knee to his commands, if there is a matching spoil for it," she says, leaning back into proper form, taking a step forward. "And I am doing this of my own volition, Yasomaga."

"But of course you are, Raiko-sama. It is good to see you've had such a… change of mind, yes. And isn't it such a stroke of luck, that you can visit the hangars to speak of this matter just as Maya-sama is receiving the Shiranuis… Almost a fortunate a coincidence as if you were to visit Ikaruga-sama's office while Maya and Fujiwara were debating crucial matters soon to be rejected, no?"

Raiko simply closes her eyes tight, stepping back, fleeing into the shade. "I did not know your reach extended all over the palace grounds… I thought you were being sarcastic…"

"And you still followed your commands, like a good dog. What did you do today, Raiko-sama, if you don't mind my asking?" he asks, walking up to her as she flees down the roofed path towards the castle.

"…I presented my genuflection as a favor to Maya, to prove my loyalty and desire to belong again. And I was not lying in anything I told her."

"My, what a coincidence!" he laughs. "It is almost as if you had a leash pulling your neck into motion," Tsuhi smiles, rubbing his neck.

"…Do not test me, Yasomaga."

"Oh, why are you so adusted, ma'am? As I said before, now your project has gained stable funding and you're enroute to regain your wings and fellows. Fate smiles upon you, Raiko-sama," he giggles, edging closer to hit her arm softly.

She returns the gesture, with enough strength to make him wail and stumble. "I loathe that you'd be correct on this… And everything you're plotting relies on Maya acting as you think she will. Are you certain you should take such risks?" she asks, folding her arms and dare, smirking at Tsuhi.

Whose lips whir as he looks down, heaving a sigh. "She has been following my predictions more than expected, actually."

Raiko stops her steps flat, coughing upon the checkpoint guards and presenting her ID. They offer entrance, and she looks around but finds nothing. When passing through and into another section of the park, the outer one that leads to her outpost, then it is she hears faint footfalls tracing her own.

"…She has moved exactly as you thought? You do not jest?"

"As I just said, she is. I did not expect her to actually hold interest in you at all, Raiko-sama. That was a jest on my part."

"Then why did she… stare so at me?"

"You did admire her figure as well, and enjoyed it quite by the looks of it?"

"Wh- Do not get the wrong idea. It was only embarrassing to feel her eyes lingering on me, is all."

Tsuhi stares at her, shaking his head, oh, heavily and wilting calm petals off his otherwise placid tone. "Raiko-sama, due to my standing, education and training, I've mingled with mostly men. I can tell a lustful gaze from a merely curious one."

"I did not stare at her so!" Her eyes may be charming whirlpools but I did not lose myself to them today! And that adorable giggle is a surprise for the gap with her usual persona… but it only served to relieve a smile off me, nothing else!

Tsuhi watches Raiko silently through low eyelids. Lower is his chuckling, the drowsy nods following. "Hmm… Even if so, Maya-sama did spend some moments appreciating you. Maya-sama, who was always quite strict and frosting to everyone. Maya-sama, the one who avoided you the longest for these two years," he adds, cracking his knuckles in intervals from one hand to the other before touching his nose as if tapping glasses. The gesture makes Raiko wince. "Allow me to tell you today Fujiwara was anything but subtle in her approaches to her, yet rather than a reprimand Maya-sama encouraged her to touch and leer."

"W-What?! You must be jesting… I won't fall for such obvious lies," she says, knees quivering in front of the honest sigh Tsuhi gives out.

"I wish I were… I don't want her getting too close to me at the time. I fear her detox and recalibration will have to be hastened. And actually, it would be troublesome if I became the one in charge of that…" he says with a small smile, his curly hair wiggling as he looks at Raiko when overtaking her.

Who freezes on the spot, unblinking and gaping. "Are- Are you suggesting me to…"

"Do you dislike the notion?" he asks, taking some steps back to face her.

"…Is this an order?" she again flees further into the shade, unable to ever lose the stalking footsteps.

Nor the whisper that would seem to breath right besides her ear. "No, merely an observation on my part. Maya-sama understood my point to not wish to receive intrusive touches, but saw no issue with her 2IC doing so. And even forwarded one long gaze to you, allowed you to return it. However, I am but a humble shadow. I must remain unnoticed to reach my highest impact. So, I believe, Maya-sama should be handled by you rather than me. Is there a problem?"

Raiko languidly walks, folding her arms, rubbing them as she casts gazes back at him. "No, I just… Do you think she will welcome it? You may be mistaken here…"

"…Believe me, Maya-sama may even initiate the contact herself at this point. Don't be surprised if she slaps your bottom when you next see each other."

"O-Oh, truly?"

"My, are you growing curious, Raiko-sama?"

"Pah… It's simply odd, to think Maya would fall to such actions. She wouldn't actually, uh, slap at me, would she?"

Tsuhi stares, then sighs as he shrugs. "To be honest, she has been the one serving Ikaruga-sama the longest. All those forceful triggers of combat hypnosis and the hypnotherapy sessions must have left a mark, a residue… And that seed is soon to sprout flowers, all it may take is one final drop of water to collapse the dam of inhibitions. And you should be the one to harvest that bouquet, Raiko-sama," he concludes with a gentle push onto one of her shoulders.

She shakes her head, hangs it while rubbing her temple, recalling that shiny moon, that pleasant chain of laughs and chuckles while sharing tea and hours of working through folders of late. Her neck constricts as it bends barely to nod. "…Understood. Any suggestions you have to give?"

"You could prepare some ointment, in case she spanks you too hard?"

"…Yasomaga, do not test my patience," she warns, fists shaking despite faint roses blossoming in her face, how her thighs roll together and backwards in clenching.

"Please, you must chill, milady."

Sparks about to fall, a step forward taken along a sharp breath in.

"Ahem… The coming news regarding that cadet might negatively affect Maya-sama's mental state, more so now that the cousins are gone and Mana-sama is probably in a similar state. So offering a shoulder and an ear when a day's toll is high should create you an opening, I believe. She'll repay your aid in spades, and you can initiate the recalibration then. She may even welcome your advances with open arms," Tsuhi says, low, gaze lost in the floor. "And you should ask for her aid then, and let Maya-sama recalibrate you as she deems fit. You'll bend the knee if she asks, no?"

Raiko rubs at her forehead, eyes closed, hands shaking. "Is that so… Siiigh. He will certainly mock me when I report this…"

"Please, do not hoist such concerns, Raiko-sama. And if you do not act, somebody else might pounce upon this chance. I fear that Fujiwara has clear intentions to court Maya-sama."

"Huh?" she tilts, the somber breeze coursing into the room pales in front of Tsuhi's frosting gaze and frown, which cascades more ice down Raiko's crown and into her nape. "With an agenda behind her or…"

Shaking his head and shielding his eyes, he raises his chin into the wind. "Tagging her shadow did not reveal anything I didn't knew already. I suppose, she truly is smitten with Maya-sama. Fujiwara was rather peeved by her superiors' dismissal to her efforts, even on how late she was made to march to earn some modicum of respect. Maya-sama's mood has improved much lately, in no small part thanks to her talks with you, and their working relation has smoothed doubly so since then. Which is why she has taken an interest in Maya-sama, as one of the few who recognizes and rewards her work."

"I would believe Maya has noticed Fujiwara's intentions already? She never lacked wits nor tact."

"Yes, but…" Tsuhi sighs, toying with his hair as he slows down upon a gust. "You'd agree that Maya-sama can be as dense as her beloved brother regarding romance at times, more so now that her cognition might be undergoing 'changes'," he grimaces, knees shivering. Raiko shares the cold ants marching down her back, shaking her head. "Ahem… Which makes me think Maya-sama hasn't realized all the courting attempts her 2IC has thrown her way. Fujiwara literally asked and offered her hand to Maya-sama today. It was hard to both watch and remain hidden, to be honest. Siiigh…"

Raiko facepalms, hard. "…Why am I feeling sympathy for that Fudai?"

Tsuhi chuckles, covering his lips and the smile as he strolls into the sun. "Because you once were bewitched by an equally dense charmer?"

"…Yasomaga, is it necessary to bring that up? Now of all times, too?" she seethes, avoiding him and speeding into the shade.

Tsuhi chuckles, slowly following after along fluttering petals, which poke into the cracks of Raiko's facade with their scent. "I am only sharing my own opinion based on my experiences. Sadly, you were not the only one once enthralled into bending the knee by those empty promises of smiling futures, Raiko-sama," he shrugs, again gazing into the light and wind, sliding the tip of a finger into his mouth, leaving it coated in saliva. "But if you want that to be buried forevermore in the past, we can take cards to that end…"

Raiko nibbles at her lips, stretching both gloves in tense seething. Eventually, she resumes her walk in stomps. "Siiigh… I shall see what I can do regarding Maya. Will she be in her office today?"

"If she and Mana-sama move elsewhere, I'll contact you so that you can 'accidentally' run into their clerical woes if you wish to act today," he says with a nod, smirking when returning to Raiko's side, softly leaning onto it. "I may whisper suggestions for them to approach you for an opinion on how to handle this 'Takeshi', if you so wish. Perhaps you could have Mana-sama join in your recalibration? I heard Ikaruga-sama is wishing her to take Maya-sama's place in his squadron soon. Maya-sama would be elated to make both of you into fellow dogs again with her own hands, don't you think? Hehehehe…"

"…When was it that you grew to smile so while plotting such beguiling?" she asks, aiming a verbal and visual gun at him.

Tsuhi simply chuckles into the bolts. "It is second nature to me now, after spending so many moons directly under our Regent. You could say I carry a part of his deep inside me after my devoted service to our one day you'll share this delight, too, if you wish to come with me under his command?" he teases, wiggling his hips.

"…I suppose I'll be made to, whether I favor it or not," she whispers, lowering her head in guillotine.

"On that we agree, but perhaps you truly should look at this from another perspective, Raiko-sama. You vehemently refused it two years ago, but is there a reason to do so now?"

"I don't want to repeat my mistakes, is all," she counters, dry.

"Well, I suppose we shall agree to disagree. Simply follow your orders and your backing won't vanish. I'm certain Fujikagi-san will appreciate your sacrifice, Raiko-sama. Let us both bury those broken swords together, yes?" he offers with a firm nod, now eyes fully awake, extending a hand.

Which Raiko takes, languidly shaking it, leaving hers under his grasp. "Sigh… I wish to rebuke you, but your offer has produced quite the spoils for me…"

"I did say you'd be rewarded for your exploits. And it is too late for you to retreat, is it not?"

"I suppose the choice is not available anymore, is it?" she asks, he simply chuckles at her grimacing while tightening his hold over her glove. "Anything else you want to say?" she asks, pulling away with barely any strength.

Tsuhi restrains her hand for a moment before letting go, back to his usual sleepy complexion in a belated nod. "I'll contact you if anything unexpected occurs. My comms are always open for you if you require me for anything, my dear lady Raiko-sama," Tsuhi says before saluting then disappears in the width of a blink as a gust of wind passes.

Leaving Raiko casting glances around then twitching, sealing lips tight as her breaths upon the slight pain on her bottom afterwards, upon a strike both heavy and intrusive.

"And do ready some ointment. I want a report on Takeshi's situation, whatever it takes."

Rubbing her temple and sighing when seeing she was alone in the gardens for sustained seconds in silence, she can only drag herself to her outpost with a hand massaging the pain away from her hips. Going over what had happened the last few days, what happened today, what will happen from now on. More on a distant island than near her. It causes her to hollow a sigh, feeling the roots tickling her arms, piercing the veins.

"To think losing myself to alcohol that night brought me here… From an accidental kiss to plotting behind my fellow Shinpan's back. Genuflecting under such threats, now I'm not even truly retaliating anymore. Siiigh… I've truly become a loyal lapdog," she laments, hitting a pillar with her head.

Over and over, until it actually hurts and she zigzags her steps from the shade to the sun, to the shade and so on.

"I suppose, compared to the solitude Yuuhi-sama and my fellows left me in… slaving for you could be pleasurable to a degree, milord. I wonder if you'll fall to the leash soon, Maya, Mana…" she wonders, the hand by her hips widening its rounds over the roundness and lowering further onto the curve.

Resting for a moment, her eyes then wander to the emblem of the Koubuin House in the envelope she had been carrying. The one which was imprinted onto her back since birth, the sign following her seal, the sun the lotus always blossomed under. And yet lotus, some of them, do indeed sprout in the most poisonous, most corroded of swamps. Colluding with the venoms and the shadows, for the grace of the Sun.

Raiko chuckles, looking at her own Houses' emblem, the lotus, as the frontiers of heaviness in her stomach grown upon the stamp right below it, the agreement the morning's plight had awarded her. The confirmation she, oh, dreaded yet longed at the same time, as much as the lotus craves sunshine for breaths.

"…Would you also fall into milord's arms eventually, Yuuhi-sama? You've resisted for so long, but the years have eroded me despite the sin I loathed and I'm now enduring. Even Maya, your staunch guardian,seems willing to finally bend the knee according to Tsuhi and her recent actions. It wouldn't surprise me if we both begin sharing a leash before the end of the year, and Mana may begin to show signs soon if we act to that end. By now, it may only be a matter of time…"

The sun falls upon her burgundy attire, the wind tickles at her lily hair. Yet she shivers, compressing throat and fingers upon the then-pristine now-bent pages.

"…And of how fast can 'Takeshi' be removed from that base. Assuming the cousins or Kurama don't take care of him for us, that is, of course. I assume, they can be entrusted with-"

Raiko stops suddenly, words and motions, eyes widen as do her lips as if her stomach were impaled by an ice spear. No gust nor sunshine can brighten the quivering jaw set ajar.

"…Wait, were they informed of his presence? But if Maya wasn't aware yet before Mana arrived much less the cousins. And that means-" the papers fall, her heels wobble and she almost falls too. "Oh, no, we've made a terrible mistake… How could I forget? How could Yasomaga?! I know our orders are absolute however, if they were not read on, this could have severe repercussions. Assuming no blood is spilled, of course…"

Gulping as she picks up the papers, don't bothering to bring pulchritude to them before shoving the lot in the folder, Raiko brings out her comms and dials the number ID, holding her breath as the chime dings and dongs.

"…This was faster than expected," Tsuhi slowly says on the other end. "I have some ointment to share if-"

"Yasomaga, were the cousins informed of… that cadet's presence in the CCSE?"

"What? Oh… No, of course not."

"Wha- Why?!"

"You need not know, but it is all according to plan."

"But if they see him, they'll certainly-"

"If you wish to safeguard a corpse so badly, why not intervene in the talks ongoing at the moment?"

"Urgh… I… I cannot simply intrude on-"

"Oh, I'm sorry, but I simply talked too much, overhead a whisper about a mystery cadet… You simply reached out to Maya-sama in concern after my words, no?" he asks, yet is met with silence, shallow breaths. "Is that not good enough, ma'am? Were you not willing to stake your hands above fire over this?"

"…I've a son to look after, a fellowship to answer to."

"So you will forsake him, huh…"

"I'm asking for your support, I cannot-"

"Just like back then, I see… You're simply mending your mistakes, no? A blossom's shadow is not enough to sate your thirst no longer, Raiko-sama?" he asks, chuckling slow.

His chuckles continue where he stands as the connection is cut, Raiko almost crushing her comms as she stomps away.

Not slowing down, not dousing back. Not reaching a resolution, even less so when catching glimpses of frail petals billowing to the clouds. Through the gust Raiko was made aware of something, a tiny detail. Winter was coming, all blossoms would soon dry up and wither.

So distracted she was that a small shout catches her off guard at minimal distance, turning around to see a small shape speeding to meet her halfway into the path to the Hibiya outpost.

"Fujikagi, how many times must I tell you to stay inside my office?" she scolds, yet crouches to welcome the rush into an embrace nonetheless, dusting the messy brown hair off stray petals.

"I saw you from the windows, but you were walking really slow," he says, nuzzling onto the sweeping glove before looking up at her, observing in silence for a moment. "Are you sad, Mother?"

"Huh?"

"You don't look alright… Did work go badly today?" he asks, rubbing her shoulder.

Raiko shakes her head, standing up proper and petting his now straightened hair. "No, that is not it. I simply have… a lot on my mind as of now. But everything will be alright from now on, Fujikagi. Actually… We should have some lunch. Would you like to go out today?"

"Truly?! Ah, wait… Do we have enough money, Mother?"

"Of course, you silly… Work has been going well, thankfully," she says, sighing as she hangs her head, coughing yet not dispelling the choking of cold hands upon her neck and nape. "I had heard there was a new restaurant that served most delectable sushi. What say you we visit it today?"

"Yes, please! Can we, truly?"

"Indeed, I don't see why not," she says, giving slow rubs to her neck. "It turns out wagging my tail to the tune is quite profitable… Siiigh. Please, let the name be merely a coincidence… Please, stay dead… Just when I chose to move on from under the shadow of our promise…"

"Mother, are you truly fine?" Fujikagi asks, pulling at Raiko's sleeve.

"Oh… Yes, don't worry. I'm merely a bit tired…" she nods down, grabbing one of his hands and starting to walk to the gates.

Fujikagi's narrowing eyes remain on hers as he purses lips. "Really? Would you need a hug?"

"…I am fine, dear. I can stay strong by myself, for your sake. Your happiness is what matters most to me. So simply smile for Mother, yes?" she asks, nodding down with eyes closed, dragging her feet.

"Yes… But what about your happiness?" he asks, again pulling her hand.

"My happiness?"

"Yes. You should be happy as well, Mother. Did Father not hug you when you felt bad?"

"Yes… but he isn't here anymore. And I must protect you, it is my duty. Do not worry about me, I am truly fine."

"…But would you not want a hug?"

"Sigh… Don't be so stubborn, now. I won't give you natto rolls if you don't behave."

"Eh!? F-Fine, I will be good…" he looks down, edging closer to lean on her arm.

"Come on, now, no pouting… Come, let us make haste, yes?" she speeds up a bit, swinging her arm which he returns in playful laughs, and in a slow rhythm they walk off the palace grounds. "I can't allow myself to fall into those arms anymore… I will keep you safe, even if I must forsake this miraculous return. A-Assuming it is him and not a mere coincidence in the name, yes. It must be that. It has to be…"

"M-Mother, don't hold me so tight. My hand hurts…"

"O-Oh… Sorry, dear. It was an accident."

"Mmgh… You're being mean. Now you can't have natto rolls, either."

"Haha… Yes, indeed. Maybe I should not eat them anymore… so long as I keep acting like this…"

"…Are you truly feeling well, Mother?"

"Yes, I'm simply pondering many matters. Come, let us make haste. Which sushi would you like the most?"

"Oh, mackerel!"

"…D-Does it have to be that?"

"But you love mackerel too, Mother… You can't keep it all for you this time."

"Come now, I won't do such a thing. But let us try and broaden our palate, we should avoid mackerel for some time."

"Mmgh… I see. Then I'll have what you have," he says, again resting onto her arm.

"Alright then. Shall we make haste?" she asks with a smile, swinging their linked hands back and forth again.

"Yes!"