August 22, 2004

Hawaii/Molokai Leasehold

Wavecrest


The afternoon sun bathed the beaches of Wavecrest in a soft, golden glow, casting long shadows over the military base. Despite the synthetic food rations and the grim reality of war, the day had a rare calm to it. Takeru sat quietly on a bench near the beach, the salty breeze brushing against his skin. The gentle hum of distant machinery and the occasional chatter of soldiers moving around the base were the only sounds interrupting the peaceful ambiance. His thoughts, however, were far from peaceful.

Takeru sifted through reports he carried with him, reflecting on how Hawaii had managed to hold itself together amid the chaos. Other parts of the world were spiraling into madness, but here, Hawaii was relatively stable compared to Seattle. It was nothing short of a miracle that they were managing, especially with the ever-present threat of BETA hanging over them. He wasn't new to this. He'd seen it all before, lived through it over and over, thanks to the endless loop of time he'd been caught in. But that didn't make it any easier.

Kashiwagi often remarked on how he seemed calm and composed, as if he had no fear of the end of the world. In truth, Takeru was terrified — not of death itself, but of the pain that came with it. The memory of being torn apart by the BETA, again and again, haunted him. But here, at least for now, they were safe. Since the incursion in Hilo, the BETA hadn't made another appearance. Many believed that the volcanic activity in the Hawaiian archipelago was keeping them at bay. For whatever reason, BETA seemed wary of volcanic environments. Magma, after all, does not discriminate.

Life on the base was, by some twisted logic, tolerable. Surface Pilots like Takeru were given privileges: better food, better quarters, and a bit more freedom than the rest. Not to mention the sight of his Takemikazuchi, bloodied from battle but still flying UN colors, had earned him a degree of respect from the soldiers stationed here. Oberon Flight, his squad, had become a symbol - that the UN Forces still had enough manpower to make a difference.

People were grateful, and Takeru appreciated it. It made things easier, at least for now.

As he lost himself in his thoughts, a shadow blocked the sun. He looked up to see Ayamine standing there, her usual deadpan expression in place.

"Scheming?" she asked, raising an eyebrow.

Takeru smirked. "Not really."

"Searching?"

"Somewhat."

"Found any good ass?"

Takeru chuckled. "Not walking around with Kashiwagi?"

Ayamine shrugged. "She and Sakaki are hanging out with the Valkyries."

Takeru nodded. "Ah, Suzumiya's in that squad. Kashiwagi was part of their unit, right?"

"Yep. You stole their Kashiwagi," Ayamine remarked with a hint of amusement.

"Not my choice," Takeru replied.

Ayamine gave him a mischievous grin. "Still, you did steal one of their Valkyries to form a harem."

Takeru shot her a dry look. "Dude, do you want me to get punished?"

Still grinning, Ayamine touched her chin thoughtfully. "Want me to?"

Takeru sighed, giving her a long stare. "Not really. Sit down with me?"

"How bold," she teased, but she sat beside him anyway, her flight jacket hanging loosely over her tank top. Her dog tags jingled as she settled in.

"You've been a busy boy for weeks now," she remarked, eyeing him curiously. "Now lazing around?"

Takeru leaned back, closing his eyes for a moment. "It's an off-duty day, Lieutenant."

"Don't work too hard," she warned, her voice softer than usual.

"I'm not."

"Liar."

Takeru opened his eyes and smirked at her. "For real."

Ayamine gave him a long, scrutinizing look. "You had five meetings yesterday. Sakaki's worried about your health. Look at you — eye bags swollen, hair touching your shoulder."

Takeru shrugged. "It's okay."

"It's acceptable," Ayamine said with a sigh, then fixed him with a more serious gaze. "Shirogane."

"What?" Takeru replied, sensing the shift in her tone.

"Don't die from overworking."

Takeru waved her off. "I'm literally sitting on a bench enjoying the sun, dude."

"You are!?" Ayamine said in mock surprise.

Takeru chuckled, but there was something comforting in her concern. It was moments like these that reminded him of the bonds he shared with his squad, the sense of family they'd cultivated through battle and hardship.

"So," he said, glancing at her, "why are you really here?"

Ayamine shrugged casually. "They barred the roof on the Wavecrest. Too many people are partying."

Takeru nodded, remembering how popular that spot was. "I heard about that. It's got a great view of the Pacific. Too bad."

Ayamine tilted her head, staring out at the ocean. "A shame. Take me to the mountains?"

Takeru shot her a flat look. "Yeah, not gonna happen."

Ayamine smirked again. "Let you grope?"

Takeru laughed, shaking his head. "Dude, I'm not hiking."

"I see… you want four squeezes?" she teased, her smirk widening.

Takeru rolled his eyes, turning his attention back to the horizon. The salty wind blew across his face as he stared at the vast ocean. Moments like this, where everything seemed still and quiet, always reminded him of how fragile peace was. He could feel the weight of the world on his shoulders, the responsibility of leading his squad, the endless loops, and the burden of memory pressing down on him.

Yuuko-sensei had once told him it was his will that kept him alive through each loop. Was it really willpower? Or was he just stubborn? Maybe it was a little of both. Either way, it felt like a cruel joke sometimes — surviving while others fell around him, carrying their memories like scars on his soul.

"Shirogane," Ayamine's voice snapped him out of his thoughts.

"Hmm?"

"Am I air to you now?" she asked, her tone sarcastic.

Takeru blinked and shook his head. "Sorry, were you saying something?"

Ayamine's eyes narrowed, her voice dropping slightly. "Sakaki… Ayamine…?"

Takeru felt a pang of guilt. He knew exactly what she was hinting at, but he didn't have an answer. Not yet. Once he stepped in that pit, there's no coming back. He'd have to carry their hearts too.

"I'm a very greedy person," he admitted.

"You are," Ayamine agreed. "Very. You want to hold all the flowers in your hand."

Takeru sighed, looking down. "I do. But I'm not sure if the thorns in those flowers will end up hurting me. I… don't want the flowers to wither."

Ayamine tilted her head slightly, her gaze softening. "You've thought about it, then. You're scum, Shirogane… but I'm glad it's in your mind."

Takeru chuckled, though there was no humor in his voice. "It's hard not to notice. In this world, no one would judge us for anything. But that doesn't stop the rumors."

Ayamine shrugged. "Rumors are just that. Don't worry about it."

They sat in silence for a while, the sound of the ocean filling the void between them. Ayamine was right — he had thought about it. The looks, the unspoken words between him and his squadmates. He wasn't blind. But this world… This world made it hard to think about anything other than survival. Relationships, feelings — they seemed like luxuries.

"Work tomorrow?" Ayamine asked, breaking the silence.

"Yeah," Takeru replied. "I've got a meeting with the local government in Hawaii. They want to talk to me."

"Big shots already, huh?" Ayamine raised an eyebrow, looking impressed.

Takeru shrugged. "I'll be with Major Vickers. But I have a feeling they want something."

Ayamine stood up, stretching her arms. "Let's go eat. Shield me from the crowd with your denseness."

"Rude," Takeru muttered, but he followed her anyway. He still had some military scrips to spare for a meal.

As they walked together, side by side, Takeru couldn't shake the feeling that these quiet moments — these fleeting moments of peace — were what kept them all sane in this broken world.


August 23, 2004

Hawaii/Molokai Leasehold

Kaunakakai


The meeting room in the town was starkly lit, its walls of eastern design contrasted with the heavy military décor. Takeru sat quietly, his expression calm but vigilant. He was flanked by Major Vickers, who was seated straight-backed and stoic beside him, and Mr. Nguyen, the UN Forces security councilor, who sat further down the long table. Across from them sat a figure that demanded attention — Kaido, a representative of the Imperial Royal Guard in yellow Imperial Royal Guard Uniform. His sharp eyes scanned the room as though appraising the value of everyone inside it.

Nguyen, a wiry man with glasses perched precariously on his nose, stood to open the meeting. His voice was cordial but laced with tension as he greeted Kaido. "Gentlemen, thank you for coming. Major Vickers, Lieutenant Shirogane," he nodded respectfully toward the two, "and of course, Kaido-sama. We're here to discuss the ongoing situation regarding the recovery operations of the stranded TSF carriers and other assets."

Kaido barely acknowledged the pleasantries, his attention already fixed on the Major and Takeru. His presence filled the room with a subtle, imposing energy, the kind that only came with holding a high rank in the Imperial Royal Guard. His gaze lingered on Takeru for a moment longer than expected, and Takeru could feel little of it. Kaido's face betrayed nothing, but there was no mistaking that he was sizing him up.

"Let's skip the introductions, shall we?" Kaido's voice was low and clipped, his tone carrying the authority of someone used to getting what they wanted. "I am interested in the ships you've been pulling out of the water. It's no secret the UN Forces have been salvaging vessels — carriers, destroyers, and even cargo ships. I want to know what you've found and what you intend to do with it."

Major Vickers leaned forward slightly, his posture still composed. "The recovery operations are well within our jurisdiction, Kaido-sama. The UN Forces are tasked with salvaging what we can, considering the state of the world. Everything we recover, we recover for the benefit of all our forces."

Kaido's expression remained inscrutable, though his eyes narrowed almost imperceptibly. "For the benefit of all forces? That's a lofty statement, Major. You and I both know that the ships you're salvaging hold more than just a few spare parts. Some of the equipment on board those vessels could change the tide of the war. The Imperial Royal Guard has a vested interest in ensuring that these assets are not hoarded by one faction."

Vickers' response was smooth, but firm. "What we recover is ours, Kaido-sama. The UN Forces are not obligated to share what we find, especially given the resources and personnel we've expended to bring those ships back from the brink. We do not owe the Empire."

The tension in the room thickened as the two men stared each other down. Takeru remained silent, his professional demeanor never faltering as he observed the exchange. Inside, he could feel the voices stirring, offering advice, cautioning him on how to navigate the situation.

Professional voice whispered in his head. "Watch closely, Shirogane. Vickers is setting the tone. Be ready to support, but don't step in unless needed."

Kaido didn't back down, his voice hardening as he spoke. "It's in the best interest of the Empire of Japan that these assets be shared, Major. Our engineers have more experience handling advanced technology than the Americans or the UN. We're not asking for much — just our fair share. Surely, that's something we can agree on?"

Vickers didn't flinch. "Your statement is noted, Kaido-sama, but what we've recovered is now UN Forces property, and it's our duty to ensure that it is used appropriately. We're not in the business of handing over critical technology without oversight nor without a fair amount of payment."

Kaido's gaze flicked toward Takeru once again, as if trying to gauge his reaction. Takeru met his eyes without wavering, his face unreadable. The silence between the three stretched on for a moment before Kaido leaned back slightly in his chair, his expression becoming more guarded.

"You must understand, Major," Kaido began, his tone less forceful now, "the IRG isn't here to take anything without compensation. We're more than willing to negotiate. Surely, there's something we can offer in exchange for access to the recovered assets. This isn't just about taking mind you — it's about ensuring that both of our forces are strengthened in the fight against the BETA."

Vickers let out a snort, yet clearly chose his words carefully. "We appreciate the offer, Kaido-sama. But these operations are delicate, and any transfer of resources requires careful consideration. The UN Forces have been spearheading these recovery missions, and we've shouldered the risks without assistance. If we were to agree to any sort of exchange, it would have to be on terms that benefit both sides equally — and, more importantly, ensure that we maintain control over the assets."

Kaido's lips thinned into a line. It was clear that the UN wasn't going to give up their resources easily. "Terms that benefit both sides… And yet, Major, I can't help but feel that you're hesitant to share the fruits of your labor. I would hate for this to cause friction between our forces when we are both fighting for the survival of humanity."

Takeru remained silent, his thoughts churning as he watched the back-and-forth. The Veteran's voice snorted. "Kaido's fishing for a crack. He's trying to find an opening, but Vickers is holding his ground well. Keep calm, Shirogane. This is a test of patience as much as politics."

The discussion carried on, with Vickers and Kaido locked in a battle of subtle bartering and veiled threats. The tension ebbed and flowed, but neither side was willing to give much ground. Takeru's gaze remained steady, his composure unshakable as he continued to observe. But his silence didn't go unnoticed.

Kaido shifted in his seat, his eyes narrowing slightly as he addressed Takeru directly for the first time. "And what about you, Lieutenant Shirogane? You've been awfully quiet during all of this. Surely you have an opinion on the matter?"

Takeru's expression remained neutral, though he could feel the eyes of the room on him. He took a brief pause, collecting his thoughts before replying in a measured tone. "I'm here to observe, Kaido-sama. My duty is to ensure that the assets we recover are used effectively in our fight against the BETA. Major Vickers has already made our position clear."

Kaido's gaze lingered on Takeru, searching for something, but finding no weakness in his composure. The professional voice approved. "Good. Keep it short. Show strength in silence.""

Kaido gave a small, almost imperceptible nod, then leaned back in his chair. "Very well. It seems we're at an impasse for now."

Major Vickers inclined his head. "It seems so. But that doesn't mean we can't find a way forward that works for both of our forces. We'll consider your requests, Kaido-sama, but we won't make any decisions lightly."

There was a finality to Vickers' tone that left little room for further negotiation. Kaido, sensing this, let out a sigh and stood. "I suppose that's the best I can expect for now. But don't think this discussion is over, Major. The IRG will be watching closely, and we'll be back to the table soon enough."

Vickers stood as well, offering a firm handshake. "I look forward to it, Kaido-sama. Until then, our forces remain allies in the fight against the BETA."

Kaido took the handshake, though his eyes remained cold. "Indeed."

As Kaido left the room, Nguyen let out a breath he'd been holding in. "That was tense," he muttered under his breath.

Vickers turned to Takeru, offering him a knowing look. "You held your ground, Lieutenant. Kaido wasn't happy about it, but that's a good thing. Shows we're not backing down."

Takeru nodded slowly. "I figured they'd try to get something from us. But we can't afford to show weakness right now."

"Exactly," Vickers agreed. "The UN Forces may be battered, but we're not going to let the IRG or anyone else walk all over us. This is our fight too. Many call themselves as the blades of humanity, but we were and are still the shield of humanity."

Takeru remained silent as the weight of the conversation settled over him. The politicking and negotiations were just as much a part of the war as the battles themselves. And while he'd rather be in his TSF, fighting the BETA head-on, he knew that these moments in the meeting room were just as critical.

Yuuko-sensei taught him that well.


Although the meeting was over for now, the room still hummed with the tension left behind from the exchange between Major Vickers and Kaido of the Imperial Royal Guard. Takeru, seated calmly beside Vickers, but watched as Kaido stood near the exit, his figure unmoved by the conclusion of their discussion. The atmosphere had the distinct feel of unfinished business, and Takeru noticed the way Kaido's gaze lingered on him as though weighing something in his mind. Vickers continued to discuss with Mr. Nguyen. He casts another glance towards Kaido.

Takeru caught the subtle shift in the man's stance, and as Kaido made no immediate move to leave, Takeru cleared his throat and spoke up.

"Kaido-sama," Takeru said, his tone even but laced with curiosity, "it seems you have more to say. I thought our business here was concluded, but if you've got words for me, I'd like to hear them."

Kaido's eyes flickered slightly, betraying a moment of thought before he turned back to face Takeru fully. "Shirogane Takeru," he began, his voice deep and measured. "Your actions have not gone unnoticed. Those who fought in Operation 21st remember you well — the man who led the charge and captured the Hive. Were it not for the G-bomb, humanity might have truly taken control of a Hive for the first time in history. You could have been a hero beyond reckoning. Nonetheless, a hero."

Takeru remained silent, his eyes focused on Kaido. The mention of Operation 21st and the Hive brought back memories that clawed at his mind, the fragmented experiences of countless loops flashing before him. But he kept his expression neutral, allowing Kaido to continue.

"You've earned the right to ride that Takemikazuchi, now flying under UN colors," Kaido continued, his tone growing more pointed. "But many within the Empire — within the Royal Guard — ask why a man who has been granted such grace by Her Highness, the Shogun, would not fight for her directly. Why not pledge yourself fully as a Royal Guard? Why, instead, remain with the UN Forces?"

Takeru met Kaido's gaze, the question hanging in the air like a challenge. He leaned forward slightly, resting his forearms on the table, his voice steady but with a touch of sharpness. "Kaido-sama, I think we can drop the formalities. You know very well why I'm with the UN Forces. Her Highness has made her position clear. The Shogun's support for the UN is no secret, and I fight where I am most needed. The Takemikazuchi flies under the UN colors because that's where her support lies."

Kaido's lips tightened into a thin line, but his eyes remained cold. "The Shogun's will, yes. But that doesn't change the fact that there are many within the Empire who question why a pilot of your caliber — a man who captured a Hive — hasn't taken a more direct role within the Royal Guard."

Takeru felt the tension in the side of the room thicken, but he didn't flinch. He knew this conversation was inevitable. The IRG had been circling him ever since the Takemikazuchi was bestowed upon him, and their curiosity — and perhaps jealousy — about his position within the UN was something he couldn't ignore.

"You can beat around the bush all you want, Kaido-sama," Takeru said, his voice growing more direct. "But let's not pretend this is about my alliance. The Shogun has placed her support behind the UN, and by flying with them, I am honoring her will. What you seem to be concerned with is the idea that I might be a threat to the Royal Guard's standing."

Kaido's eyes narrowed slightly, but Takeru pressed on.

"Let me be clear," Takeru said, his voice lowering just enough to carry an edge. "Even without the Takemikazuchi, my skills as a pilot remain. I've fought on the frontlines and survived battles that many would consider impossible. The Takemikazuchi is a symbol, yes, but don't mistake it for the source of my ability."

The air between them was charged now, and Kaido's expression hardened. "You speak boldly for a man whose allegiance is at the center."

Takeru smirked slightly, his eyes flashing with something that wasn't quite amusement. "Center? No, Kaido-sama, my allegiance is to humanity. The UN Forces are the sword and shield of that cause, and our focus is, and always will be, against the BETA. The IRG might believe they are several steps ahead in this game, but don't think for a moment that we haven't noticed the conflicting orders coming from Lord Ikaruga before the Gates of Babylon opened. His interest in the information I possess from my time under Professor Kouzuki hasn't gone unnoticed either."

Kaido stiffened at the mention of Lord Ikaruga, and Takeru could see the flash of surprise in his eyes.

"You have evidence of these statements?" Kaido asked, his voice cold.

Takeru chuckled softly, though there was no warmth in the sound. "I have enough evidence to cause quite a stir, Kaido-sama. Statements from surface pilots, records of what happened during evacuation of Japan, and other tidbits that I'm sure would be of interest to many parties — especially the Americans. They'd be very eager to hear what I have to say, I'm sure."

The room fell silent, Kaido's expression darkening as he processed Takeru's words. It was clear now that Takeru wasn't just a skilled pilot—he was playing the game on a much larger scale.

"You'd risk chaos?" Kaido's voice was sharp, incredulous. "Or do you not understand what you say here now?"

Takeru's face turned cold, his eyes locking with Kaido's. "I don't want chaos, Kaido-sama. But that depends entirely on the sincerity of your intentions. If the IRG is thinking of testing the UN Forces, then understand this: we may be neutral, but don't mistake our neutrality for weakness. Our devotion to humanity's survival is unwavering, and if anyone — anyone — thinks they can use that devotion as an excuse to feast on us like vultures, then they're sorely mistaken."

Kaido's eyes flickered, a hint of something like respect flashing briefly before his usual guarded expression returned. He stood a little straighter, his voice softening slightly.

"You've made your point, Lieutenant Shirogane. It's good to see that the UN Forces have men like you — pilots with brains as well as skill. But be careful. There are those who won't tolerate that tone from you."

Takeru remained unflinching, his professional demeanor returning. "If they have a problem with me, they can take it up with Major Vickers. My loyalty is to the UN Forces, and I fight for humanity, not politics, which in itself, is a tool."

Kaido's gaze lingered on Takeru for a moment longer before he gave a slight nod. "Very well. I'll take your words under advisement."

With that, Kaido turned and exited the room, leaving behind a silence that seemed to echo with the weight of their conversation.

Takeru watched him go, his expression never wavering, though his mind raced. The veteran's voice whispered in his head. "You handled that well. Kaido's not used to being spoken to like that, but you showed him you're not just some pawn. That's how you keep their respect."

As the door closed behind Kaido, Takeru allowed himself a small sigh of relief, though the weight of the situation still hung heavy in the air. He knew this was only the beginning. The political games were just as dangerous as the battlefield, and Takeru was now fully entangled in them.


August 23, 2004

Hawaii/Molokai Leasehold

Wavecrest Base


The night air in Wavecrest, as always, was thick with the scent of salt and the soft rustling of palm trees swaying gently in the ocean breeze. Takeru stood outside his office in the Wavecrest, looking out over the sprawling military base that had once been a serene resort. The base hummed with a quiet but ever-present tension. The skirmishes with the BETA, the delicate diplomacy with the Americans, and the presence of the Imperial Royal Guard all hung in the air like a storm waiting to break.

He sighed softly, rubbing his temples before deciding to step out for a bit of fresh air. As he walked down the open-air corridor, the soft thud of shoes drew his attention. A familiar figure approached, her red Imperial Guard uniform glowing faintly under the base's lights. Lieutenant Tsukuyomi Mana. Her presence was unmistakable, the crimson of her attire a stark contrast to the more muted tones of the UN uniforms surrounding them.

Takeru paused as she approached, saluting her with the crispness that came from years of military training. "Lieutenant Tsukuyomi," he greeted, his voice steady and professional.

"Lieutenant Shirogane," Tsukuyomi Mana returned the salute, her voice as composed as ever. But there was a certain weight in her eyes, something unspoken hanging between them. She fell in step beside him, and together they began to walk through the Wavecrest.

The quiet between them stretched out for a moment, neither in a hurry to fill it. The soft thrum of generators and the distant sound of waves crashing against the shore seemed to be the only sounds that mattered. Finally, it was Tsukuyomi who broke the silence.

"You've changed, Lieutenant," she said, her tone more thoughtful than accusatory. "From the oafish cadet I knew at Yokohama base to the man standing beside me now... It's almost like you're someone else. Or was this your true self, dead man?"

Takeru glanced at her from the corner of his eye, giving a small nod of agreement. "People change, Lieutenant. War has a way of doing that. I'm no exception."

Tsukuyomi Mana's lips pressed together, a small frown marring her features as if she had expected that response, but still found it difficult to accept. "Perhaps. But the change in you is... significant. You were once a cadet focused solely on piloting. Now, you navigate politics with the same sharpness as you do in battle. Shows how much the world has changed."

Takeru didn't respond immediately. Instead, he leaned his back against the metal railing that lined the walkway, staring out into the night as he contemplated her words. After a moment, he turned to her, his expression all business. "You didn't come here just to talk about the past, Lieutenant Tsukuyomi. What is it you want?"

Her eyes narrowed slightly at his directness, but she didn't shy away from the question. "Support," she said simply, her voice steady but tinged with something close to urgency. "The Imperial Royal Guard needs your support, Lieutenant Shirogane. We can't deny your influence within the UN forces, and your connections are—"

Takeru held up a hand, cutting her off with a pregnant pause. He let the silence linger between them before pushing himself off the railing and standing upright. His eyes were sharp now, his expression unreadable. "Kaido already tried," he said, his voice low but firm. "And although I'm grateful for the graces the Shogun has bestowed upon me, any support I give must be an equal exchange and must go through the proper channels."

Tsukuyomi blinked, clearly surprised at his response. It wasn't the reaction she'd been expecting, and for a moment, she seemed uncertain of how to proceed.

Takeru didn't let the moment slip by. "I understand the Takemikazuchi is a valuable TSF," he continued, his tone measured. "I appreciate the fact that I'm receiving parts from the Imperial Royal Guard, and through you, I'm able to keep it operational. But support… real support… isn't something I can give so easily right now. Not without going through the proper people."

Tsukuyomi Mana's mouth opened as if to protest, but she stopped herself. The weight of his words settled over her, and she realized the truth in them. She closed her mouth and stood there for a moment, her hands balling into fists at her sides as she struggled to find the right response.

Was the Shogun struggling?

It couldn't be. At least not at the moment she shouldn't be.

Takeru took a step closer, his gaze softening slightly, though his voice remained firm. "If I were to compromise the neutrality of the UN Forces, it wouldn't just affect me, Lieutenant. It would compromise everything we stand for. Make no mistake — my gratefulness to the Shogun is not in question. I owe her much, and I respect her greatly. But I can't guarantee that the support you're asking for won't end up benefiting others who might not have the same noble intentions."

There was a long silence, the tension between them palpable. Tsukuyomi's eyes flickered with a mix of emotions — frustration, understanding, and something else that Takeru couldn't quite place.

Finally, she sighed softly, her shoulders relaxing as the fight drained out of her. "You're right," she admitted, her voice quiet. "I hadn't thought of it that way. I was… not thinking well."

Takeru gave a small nod, his tone gentler now. "This isn't a personal decision, Lieutenant Tsukuyomi. It's about keeping our mission intact. The UN Forces are here to fight the BETA, and we can't afford to get tangled in politics. Not now, not with the world as it is and not when we are rebuilding."

She looked up at him, her eyes searching his face for a moment before a small, resigned smile tugged at the corners of her lips. "You've grown into a man of many mysteries, Shirogane. I can see now why Meiya-sama... would fall for you."

Takeru's breath caught in his throat at the mention of Meiya, and he felt a pang of something deep and painful settle in his chest. But he didn't let it show. Instead, he gave a small, sad smile in return. "Meiya was… someone special. In this life, and another… well…"

Tsukuyomi clenched her fists again, her expression tightening for a brief moment before she straightened her back, regaining her composure. "I will take your words to heart, Lieutenant Shirogane. You've given me much to think about. And perhaps... you're right. Maybe this is a matter for Major Vickers after all."

Takeru nodded, stepping back as she prepared to leave. "Good luck, Lieutenant Tsukuyomi. I'm sure Major Vickers will be open to discussing the proper channels for support."

She gave him one last glance, a mix of respect and frustration in her eyes, before saluting him. "Until next time, Lieutenant Shirogane."

With that, she turned on her heel and left, her red uniform blending into the night as she disappeared from view.

Takeru watched her go, the weight of their conversation settling over him. The mention of Meiya had stirred something within him, something he'd been trying to bury. But he knew now wasn't the time to dwell on the past. In a depressing way, he understood that once this loop's over, he could see her again… that is if he could recall his memories as clearly as this one.

As he leaned back against the railing once more, he let out a slow breath, his mind already turning toward the challenges ahead. The political games were growing more complicated by the day, and the UN Forces' neutrality was becoming harder to maintain and perhaps the foreknowledge he knew would be swept away by the wings of a butterfly.

Soon, these rather peaceful days would be over.