A/N: Sup Y'all it's, Doggie coming at ya with another chapter. Hopefully you guys are enjoying thing as this is different from my Taimanin story but still fun to write. As some of you may know yes, Luciela is Lucy from CyberPunk: Edge Runners and in this universe Cybernetics are treated like a Taboo in the same way of Deus Ex: Human Revolution. There will also be other Sci-Fi influences that will appear in the this universe since the Prison Battleship series doesn't have a lot of lore to work off of or most of it is pretty vague with only small bits and pieces but that is job of the Author (Me) to fill in those gaps.
Anyway let's get on with the story!
DISCLAIMER: I OWN NOTHING BUT THIS FUNNY AND QUIRKY DEMON CORE. ALL CHARACTERS AND PROPERTIES BELONG TO LILITH SOFT AND OTHER CORPOS.
Kangoku Senkan: Hunter of the Stars
The Wine of Illusions and The Waltz of Daggers
Chapter 2
The Next Day
Reiri Was in her office that was located on the Base that housed the Hounds of Orion and her Adjutant, Major Naomi Evans. Everyone was waiting on Captain Amenosa as she was awaiting for him to turn in his reports on the progress of the after mission and any issues that needed to be addressed. The door opened, and in walked Captain Amenosa, accompanied by his adjutant, Lieutenant O'Brian 'Rusty', and the newly recruited specialist hacker, Luciela.
"Greetings, My lovely rose of thorns, " Captain Amenosa flirted while saluting. "We're ready to deliver our report on the last mission."
"Good," Commander Reiri replied as she was sitting at her desk with the files and her computer showing the after mission reports.
She was used to dealing with tough soldiers, but the captain's constant attempts to seduce her had grown tiresome. She would not let him get to her, though; she had to remain professional and maintain her composure. After all, she was their commander, and they were her subordinates. She couldn't afford to let their behavior distract her from her duties.
Turning her attention to the matter at hand, she listened to the report of the latest mission. Captain Amenosa and his squad had successfully neutralized a terrorist threat of the Neo Terran Secret Research Facility on Miranda. It was a job well done, and she commended them on their performance. However, despite their success, she couldn't help but feel that something was off. Rieri remembered those eyes of a killer during the mission that the captain had as behind that relaxed smile and his womanizing attitude was a cold and calculating killer that was hiding in plain sight. His gaze was sharp, and his demeanor was cool and detached, as if nothing could faze him. He was the epitome of a stoic soldier, with an icy stare that could send a shiver down the spines of anyone in his presence.
"Captain Amenosa...," she said, her voice betraying a hint of suspicion. "Your squad's performance has been impressive, but there have been rumors circulating that you are not what you seem."
The captain's expression remained unchanged, his eyes still fixed on her. "And what might those rumors entail, my wine of sinful desires?"
"People have been saying that you have come in contact with unscrupulous sorts and criminals or at least problematic individuals, that you are not as noble and virtuous as you appear. Is there any truth to these accusations?" Reiri asked, her tone becoming more serious.
Amenosa's gaze shifted from her to a spot on the floor, then back to her. "I'm not sure where these rumors are coming from, my sweet little buttercup of temptation but if I had to say... it's nothing but mere rumors from the scuttle butt and fish wives gossip. Nothing for you to worry about... unless...Oh my, Commander...Have you fallen for my Pluckish Charms and Roguishly Handsome looks?"
The Captain had his easy going smile as he gave a wink to Rieri which seemed to infuriate the Commander. "Just know this, The Helena of my Troy. I'm loyal to the Federation and will do whatever it takes to protect our way of life, For the Neo Solar caue and the Freedom of the Colonies. You have no reason to doubt me or my motives."
He finished, his words hanging in the air like a promise. Or was it a threat?
"I see," Reiri said, her eyes narrowing. She had her suspicions about the captain.
"Well my beautiful gem of the stars, is there anything else you wish to discuss," the Captain asked, his tone shifting from one of reassurance to one of seduction. "Perhaps we could have a private conversation at this very high end resort in Mars, away from prying eyes and ears?"
His flirting and inappropriate advances had gone too far, and she was tired of being treated like a piece of meat. She was a commander, dammit, and she deserved respect.
"Enough!" she snapped, her patience finally wearing thin. "You will stop with the innuendos and the suggestive language, or I will have you court-martialed. Do you understand, Captain?"
Her voice was firm and commanding, and the captain's easy-going smile never faded.
"Hehehe, I must say you are so cute when you get all flustered. Well, I overstay my welcome. If you don't mind Commander, your Captain of Love has other duties to attend to." Captain Amenosa's face broke into a sly grin as he turned to leave. "But remember, Commander. My door is always open. You can come to me for anything and I will provide my services to the best of my ability."
He finished, his final remarks laced with double entendre.
As he walked out of the room, Reiri couldn't help but feel a shiver run down her spine. There was something about him that was dangerous and unpredictable and the thought of him and his crew in the same ship as her made her uneasy.
"Damn him, that arrogant man," Reiri fumed, pacing back and forth in her office. The memory of her confrontation with Captain Juuka Amenosa was still fresh in her mind, and the mere mention of his name my her blood boil but at the same time she needed to know more about this man and his men who were under her command.
Rieri sat down at her desk as she type on her computer for the files and records of one, Juuka Amenosa. She waited at her desk as the computer was searching the database on the Hounds of Orion and Captain Juuka Amenosa. After a while, she was shocked to find no data or records of the Hound of Orion on the Space Federation Database, not a single shred of information or evidence that the unit even existed. No names, no personal history, or service records. It was almost as if the group was wiped from existence or was as if they never exist until today. Rieri was dumbfounded at this, the only thing she was able to find was an encrypted file that had the title, Project HOUND.
Reiri heard from the rumors and gossip that the Hounds of Orion were not a regular unit in the army, and that they were rumored to be a special strike force that took on missions that no one else could handle but the fact that there was no files or record was not just strange, it was downright suspicious. As a high ranking officer of the Neo Solars faction, she had access to classified information that most people could never dream of seeing. But to find no trace of the Hounds of Orion was perplexing. Were they so secretive that even their own allies were kept in the dark about their existence?
"Who are the Hounds of Orion and who are you... Captain Juuka Amenosa?" the question burned in her mind. They were supposed to be an elite squad, handpicked by the top brass of the army to carry out the most dangerous and sensitive missions. Yet, there was not a single trace of their activities, no mission reports, no debriefings, nothing. She couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to the Hounds of Orion than meets the eye. The lack of information on the Space Federation Database was unnerving. Maybe the files are too highly classified for her to access or perhaps...something more sinister was at play. Could the Hounds of Orion be a covert operation? Or maybe a cover-up for a larger, more insidious plot?
Rieri shook her head, trying to clear her thoughts. She was being paranoid, she told herself. But the nagging feeling wouldn't go away. Something was off, and she was determined to get to the bottom of it. Rieri decided to dig deeper, starting by reviewing any available records on the commander, Captain Juuka Amenosa.
*** Neo Solar Military Base Holding Cells****
Juuka and his lieutenant made their back to their quarters as they stop by the holding bay of the base where certain persons of interest waited for interrogation. The room where their recently picked up hitch hiker was staying was down the end of a long hallway that was lined with doors that had interrogation rooms for prisoners or personnel that needed to be debrief with discretion being key. The front door was guarded by two of the Captain's men as they snap to a sharp salute as Juuka nodded to them. One of them opened the door and inside the room was a bed, table, and toilet. In the middle of the room was a young girl in her 19's as she was laying on the bed bored out of her mind.
"Hey there little lady... how ya been? You been drinking enough water, have a good meal, get enough rest?" Juuka asked with a lax tone.
"Yeah I am fine...and stop calling me a little Lady, my name is Luciela." the young girl said
"Sorry, sorry Luciela, my apologies but you know the drill. We need to ask you some questions." Juuka replied flippantly as Rusty stood behind him quietly.
"Fine, but make this quick, I want to get out of here and move on, so hurry up and finish your questioning." the girl stated in a annoyed tone.
"My name is Captain Juuka Amenosa of the Space Federation's Strike Team Specialists for or S.T.S for short and this here is my Lieutenant, Russell O'Brian, we are just gonna ask a couple of harmless questions and that's that. Ok. First, what is your full name?"
"Luciela. Luciela Kushida"
"What is your date of birth?"
"December 27, 2248. Christmas baby and all."
"Well aren't you just a gift to the galaxy. Where are you from?"
"Europa, the Jovian Moon Colony. Born and raised."
"Oh a Jovian... now that is interesting... so was your old a man or lady a Neo Terran then?" Juuka asked as his eyes narrow with his every present smile on his face.
"Well, since you already seem to know the answer to that, yes. My father was a Neo Terra and my mother was from a place called Poland on Earth. She was a refugee."
"I see and what was her name?"
"Shimmer..."
"Now why would a little cute thing like yourself leave the warm embrace of the Neo Terrans. I bet someone must have really pissed you off for you to come to the big bad part of space." Juuka spoke in a teasing manner
"Hmph, well, not that it's anyone business, but I left because of a disagreement between my parents and their way of doing things. Let's just say that the apple didn't fall far from the tree. So, I took off, not looking back." Lucile answered in a dismissive manner.
"Oh yeah. What kind of work does a pretty little girl like you do back at that illegal secret research facility and why were you augmented? I hope nothing to serious, wouldn't wanna get that pretty little body of yours hurt." Juuka asked as he got up from his chair and started predating around Luciela.
"Tch, Like I would tell you. It was a voluntary decision that has no bearing on anything that matters to you or the rest of these bastards. It was just a bunch of boring science shit and besides, you're not the type to care. Are you, Mr. S.T.S Agent or whatever you call yourself." Lucile mocked as Juuked stopped walking around Luciela and stood behind her.
"Jeez, feisty... Look, kid, no need to get all bent out of shape. I'm just trying to have a pleasant conversation but, if that's the way you want to play it, let's get down to brass tacks. You were working at an Neo Terran Illegal Secret Research Facility and have Illegal augmentations implanted that you did not register with the Federation and the data that we were able to recover shows that you were a willing participant in those experiments. Is that correct?"
"Yeah, that's true." The girl said nonchalantly.
"Ok. Well, that's not exactly the greatest news, kiddo, especially since, you know, it's all pretty illegal and stuff. Which means you are in hot water right now but why did you have cybernetic implants done in the first place?" Juuka questioned.
"Doesn't matter. I had the procedure, that's all. Now, can we move on to the next question before I lose interest and kick both your asses?" She threatened as Juuka got close behind her as his face hovered close to her side as he smoothly spoke next to her ear.
"Easy there, spitfire. No need to get physical... after all your pretty much harmless." Juuka answered as he was not the least bit worried. "I'm just curious. I mean, usually, when someone decides to go the cyberware route, they've got a reason. A purpose. Not just cause they're bored or looking to spice up their weekend."
"You're not going to drop this, are you? Fine, I'll give you the quick version. I was in an accident, okay... Nothing major, just a bit of a bump and a scrape. But it messed up my neural connections, making it hard to access the net. And, being a hacker and all, that's a pretty big problem." The girl explained in a tired and frustrated tone as Juuka back away and sat back down in his chair.
"Wait, you were a hacker at a young age? Damn, that's impressive." Juuka responded as he gave a look of feign interest.
"Uh-huh. That's what happens when you're a genius with tech. Anyway, the Neo Terran medics and researchers said they could fix me up, no sweat, but it'd involve a lot of invasive procedures and cyberware. In return they would require my expertise in hacking and extracting data from nearby Neo Solar ship's and bases. So, I figured, hey, might as well go all in. Make the most of a bad situation, right?"
"Ah, I see. That makes sense, actually. Cybernetic enhancements can do wonders, especially when it comes to repairing damaged neural pathways." Juuka concluded as he nodded his head in understanding which shocked Luciela. Luciela could remember all the apprehensive and disgust looks she would get whenever someone's eyes rest on her augmented cyberware implants as most of humanity was still against the experimental technology especially after the Mars Rebellion.
"Exactly. Plus, the whole hacking thing is a bit of a breeze with the extra hardware. Makes everything run smoother, faster, and a hell of a lot more efficient. But, enough about me. Let's talk about why the hell you're here." She demanded as she decided that she needed to go on the offense as she couldn't be on the receiving end of this interrogation.
"Right, right. We're getting to that, no worries. So, this facility, what was the purpose of it?" Juuka inquired.
"That's classified. You'd need level five clearance or higher to access that information." The girl replied.
"Oh, come on. Level five? Really? That's so 2230. Everyone knows the cool kids are at level six these days. Or, you know, at least have access to the good stuff without needing to jump through all the bureaucratic hoops." Juuka said coolly as Luciela giggled at his attempt at humor. "Look, kid, you and I both know the security protocols are a joke. They've been outdated for years. Besides, who's gonna care if we bend the rules a little, huh?"
"Whatever. Let's just get on with the questions. What else do you need to know, old man?" She asked amused as she saw that this man was different from the other adults in her life.
"Hey, easy on the 'old' comments, alright? I'm not that ancient. Besides, compared to me, everyone's practically a toddler. And, speaking of toddlers, why was a snot-nosed brat like yourself able acquire such cutting edge cybernetics?" Juuka inquired curiously.
"I'm not a snot-nosed anything. Like I said, I'm a prodigy, remember? And, as far as the Neo Terrans are concerned, I'm the future of humanity. Or, at least, that's what they keep telling me. It's all about pushing the boundaries of science, discovering new frontiers, and blah, blah, blah. Yadda, yadda, yadda. Honestly, it's all a bit boring." Lucy admitted as she remember the scientist and soldiers telling her honey-worded lies and their eyes gazing at her scandalously clothes or the lack thereof.
"Interesting. Sounds like someone's not too thrilled about their life's purpose... So, let's switch gears. What can you tell me about the experiments going on here? Any juicy gossip, any shady dealings, or maybe a hint of the latest cybernetic fashion trend?" Juuka probed as the man was analyzing and calculating everything he could see and hear. Behind his friendly and oafish facade was beast plotting and waiting.
"Experiments... Shady dealings... Look, I don't know what you're expecting to find here, but it's not as interesting as you think. Most of the work we do is pretty routine. Genetic modifications, cyborg prosthetics, that sort of thing. Sure, there's the occasional crazy project, like the time we tried to splice monkey DNA with a fish to create a super-smart, swimming monkey army, but that was a total disaster. And don't even get me started on the sentient plant experiments. Those things were creepy as hell." Luciela revealed to him as Juuka chuckled a little at the insane experiment joke.
"A monkey-fish hybrid and sentient plants, huh? Sounds like the scientists in that place have a few screws loose. But, hey, at least you're not working on anything truly diabolical, right? Like, I dunno, mind-control devices or something equally nefarious."Juuka mentioned as Luciela demeanor suddenly changed. "Ahh... Your probably wondering 'Oh shit how did this dumbass know about that!?' and the answered might surprise you... I didn't, but your expression confirmed my suspicions." He concluded.
"Oh, come on. Mind-control devices? That's a little far-fetched, even for this place. Besides, the Neo Terran aren't the type to go in for that kind of nonsense. They're more interested in developing advanced weapons systems and conquering the galaxy." Luciela responded as she tried to play it off as a joke.
"True, true. The Neo Terrans aren't exactly known for their subtle approach. Still, I can't help but wonder... You wouldn't happen to know anything about that kind of technology, would you? Maybe a top-secret project or two that the higher-ups are keeping hush-hush?" Juuka continued to press.
"Look, if you're trying to get information out of me, you're barking up the wrong tree." Luciela stated. "I may be a genius, but I'm not privy to that kind of classified info."
Juuka finally sat back in his chair as he leaned forward on toward the table in a Ambassador's Pose with his elbows on the table as his fingers intertwined and resting over his mouth to look devious.
"We both know that is a lie... when you hacked into that terminal back in that facility, you backed up the data inside a back up cyberdeck that you got stored in that brain of yours." Juuka revealed. "You just didn't want to share the data, because, and I am guessing, the knowledge that you could control other people was alluring to you. Am I right or Am I Right."
Juuka questioned as he constantly broken down layer and layers of Luciela's thoughts as he was looking at thoroughly looking for anything that would give her way. Breathing, sweat, body posture and signs, eye contact, and anything else was being observed as though it was under magnifying glass.
"I don't know what the fuck you're talking about." Luciela nervously said as she felt like she was under a microscope being observed and broken down like some sort of object in the eyes of the Captain.
"Sure, sure. Just remember, the enemy of my enemy is my friend. If you've stumbled upon any secrets that could turn the tide in the battle against the New Solars or Terrans, I'm the one you wanna talk to because..." Juuka spoke. "In the end you are nothing but a tool... a tool to be used and thrown away one you have outlived your purpose... but if you join me you can escape that fate... I can give you the one thing that we both want...I can give you freedom from all of this."
Luciela was thinking and taking in the Captain's words as she was silent as Juuka continues to speak.
"Besides, who knows, maybe a little collaboration could benefit us both. I've been known to make some killer cocktails, if that's your thing."
Juuka joked around but Luciela knew better. The man before her was anything but a the Lady killer he claimed to be as she remembered how he was able to kill 20 armed men like it was nothing. She knew that the man was a monster in disguise, a wolf in sheep clothing, a devil in the guise of a angel. It was not a matter of if he would attack her, no, it was a matter of when, and that was her dilemma. Should she make a deal with the devil or should she hedge her bets and try to make it out on her own.
The Answer was obvious but the illusion of choice was nothing new to Luciela.
"Ugh, fine. You're a persistent bastard. What the hell do you want to know?" Luciela caved in knowing that her chances for survival was with this psychopath who knows how to defend himself if pervious his display for violence back at the base was any indication.
"See, now we're getting somewhere. Tell me, have you ever heard of a guy named Donny Bohgan?" Juuka inquired as for a brief moment his mask of playfulness slipped revealing...fury?
"You mean that creep that was involved in that whole memory-implanting scandal a while back? Yeah, I've heard of him. But he's dead, isn't he?"
"Maybe, maybe not. I've got a feeling that's not the case. And if he's still out there, we need to track him down." Juuka informed
"We need to track him down? And why the hell should I care about that?" Luciela quipped as she didn't want to get anymore involved with the Captain than she needed to.
"Because, princess, you're in this now. Whether you like it or not, and besides, wouldn't it be nice to have a little leverage over those who've screwed you over? Think about the possibilities." Juuka responded as he decided to play into her ego and need for control.
Luciela hesitated for a moment before answering
"Okay, let's say I'm interested."
"I think this is a start of a beautiful partnership you and I. You've got the brains and the tech skills, and I've got the charm and the firepower. Together, we could make a hell of a team. What do you say, ready to kick some ass and take some names?" Juuka asked was he gave Luciela his signature smile.
Luciela sighed, realizing she was in too deep to turn back now
"Alright, fine. Let's do it. But if we're gonna work together, you've gotta stop calling me 'princess'. My name is Luciela, got it?" Luciela replied
"Fair enough. Nice to meet you... Lucy. Now, let's get to work." Juuka grinned excitedly.
Together, the unlikely duo began their search for the elusive Donny Bohgan and his accomplices, unaware of the dangerous game they were about to play.
"So, what's our plan of action, oh fearless leader?" Luciela sarcastically remarked.
"First things first, we've gotta gather intel and for that I need to you hack into the Neo Solar Database here on base." Juuka instructed. "Granted this must be done without anyone noticing or being alerted."
Luciela's eyes widened at the request, surprised by the boldness of the task.
"Hack into the database? Are you crazy? If we're caught, we'll be court-martialed faster than you can say 'insubordination'."
Juuka chuckled, clearly unfazed by the risk.
"That's why we've gotta be smart about it. I've got a contact on the inside, someone who owes me a favor. We can use their access to get what we need without raising any flags. Besides, isn't the thrill of the chase half the fun?"
Luciela couldn't help but smile at his audacity, a hint of admiration creeping into her voice.
"Your fucking crazy. You know that." Luciela commented
"Is that a compliment I hear?" Juuka teased
"Shut up. Just...don't get us killed." Luciela retorted
"Wouldn't dream of it, princess." Juuka winked, causing her to groan in frustration. "Ok that will be all, Thank you for answering our questions, and please remain in this room until the MPs come and release you... Also welcome to the Hounds of Orion. Good luck and Godspeed."
With that Juuka and his Lieutenant exited the room.
Once the door was closed and the two of them walked down the hall side by side. Juuka stopped and turn to his second in command.
"Rusty, Buddy... do me a favor and look into her history. I have a funny feeling that there is something that she is hiding. Just to be on the safe side, keep a tail on her and report to me immediately, understand?"
"Sure thing Cap...and Captain...you sure are a devious man." Russell commented and saluted his Captain as he left to accomplish his task.
Juuka smiled and gave a quick salute and parted ways with his 2nd in Command. He had a good feeling that the girl was not all that she seems to be. His experience from his childhood taught him that everyone had a secret or a hidden agenda and this young woman was no exception. From his encounter with the girl, Juuka could tell that she was hiding a lot from him and the military. Though she has not lied to him, the young woman was holding back on him, and that did not sit right in Juuka's gut.
Just from his first encounter of the young woman, Juuka could already guess her personality. She was a loner type, quiet, and reserved from the world. Not trusting others, not wanting to let others get too close to her, and from her appearance, the Captain knew why she acted that way. People have a tendency to judge a book from its cover, and the young woman had a tough exterior to hide the fact that she is a gentle soul. Juuka liked the fact that the young woman was a fighter, not letting the world dictate to her, and instead, taking control of her own destiny. The young captain knew that his unit needed more talented individuals and could not afford to wait for the higher ups to send him the proper soldiers. So, he would have to make due with the raw talents that were available to him on hand.
***Reiri's Officer Quarters***
Rieri was in her office ready to flip her desk and throw her computer out the window as once again she was denied access to Captain Amenosa's personal records and service history. She couldn't even get access on the Hounds of Orion division or the Department they a fall under in the grand scheme of the Space Federation Army. All the files and reports have been heavily redacted and the few pieces of information that were left were vague and just bare bones. Rieri was getting frustrated at the lack of info on the man who was in charge of protecting her on the mission to earth. Even though, the mission was a success and the captain did fulfill his duty of protecting her and Naomi but for the life of her, she could not find anything on the mysterious man and his team. It was almost as if the Hounds of Orion were a myth and did not exist in the annals of the Space Federation Military.
To top it off, the Admiral of the Fleet, George Bishop... her father, had requested that Her and Naomi to attend a dinner party at the family mansion here on Titan.
Something was not right with the captain, and Rieri wanted to get to the bottom of the mystery. Her friend and colleague, Naomi Evans, was not of much help either as she couldn't find anything about the Captain as she did ask around but there were many conflicting and outright outlandish claims of the Captain and his men. Both women had their hands tied, and their efforts were leading to nothing but dead ends. Rieri had no choice but to bite the bullet and go meet this enigma of a man face to face to see what kind of person was hiding underneath the mask.
"Damnit, no matter where I look, there is no trace of his personal or military history. Who is this guy...?" Riera thought to herself. "Captain Juuka Amenosa...the name is not on the official list of candidates, not even the honorary title lists, and his military record has a ton of black lines. How the hell did someone like him become a Captain in the Space Federation Army!?"
Riera slammed her fist on her desk in frustration. She then took a deep breath and looked at the picture of the Captain on her screen and felt a strange shudder run down her spine. The image had him with a confident smile on his face and his eyes were piercing, giving the impression that he was looking directly at her.
Reiri was so focused on the photo that she didn't even notice the knock on her door until the second attempt. She immediately closed her computer and called for her visitor to enter. In came Naomi, her trusted partner, and the one person who could always lift her spirits. But today, she could tell that something was bothering her too. She had a defeated look on her face and her shoulders were slumped. Reiri sighed, knowing that Naomi had probably come to the same dead end as her.
"Naomi, I take it you haven't had any luck either?" Rieri asked, already knowing the answer.
"No, sorry boss," Naomi replied, sitting down across from her. "No matter how hard I dug, I couldn't find anything. It's like this Captain Amenosa doesn't exist at all."
"Great, just great," Rieri grumbled, rubbing her temples. "And now we have to deal with this dinner party tonight. As if our day wasn't bad enough."
"Tell me about it," Naomi agreed, sharing her frustration. "But maybe it's not all bad. Maybe we'll finally get to meet this elusive Captain and figure out what the deal is."
"Ha, fat chance of that," Rieri scoffed, rolling her eyes. "He'll probably spend the whole night schmoozing with the higher-ups and chasing skirts. But hey, at least the food will be good, right?"
"Always looking on the bright side, aren't you, Rieri-chan?" Naomi chuckled, grateful for her friend's humor in the midst of their frustration. "I guess we'll just have to make the best of it and keep digging. There has to be something on this guy, somewhere, and besides, we have each other to lean on. We'll crack this case eventually, just like we always do."
"Thanks, Naomi. I don't know what I'd do without you," Rieri said, smiling warmly at her partner. Their bond was unbreakable, and together, they knew that they could overcome any obstacle.
"Alright, let's finish getting ready and head to the party. Keep your eyes and ears open, okay? Who knows, maybe tonight will give us some clues," Rieri suggested, standing up and smoothing her uniform.
"You got it, boss," Naomi replied with a salute, before letting a mischievous grin spread across her face. "But seriously, let's try to have a little fun, yeah? It's not every day that we get to dress up and eat fancy food. And who knows, maybe we'll even catch the eye of some handsome, mysterious captain..."
"Naomi, don't push it," Rieri warned, but couldn't hide her own smile. Together, they headed out of the office and towards the dinner party, determined to enjoy themselves and solve the mystery of Captain Amenosa, once and for all.
***The Bishop Family Estate***
At the mansion of George Bishop many guest and important figures of the government and private individuals of the Neo Solar Faction were in attendance of the extravagant and luxurious dinner party. The room was decorated with a beautiful chandelier that hung from the ceiling, casting a warm glow over the elegantly dressed guests below. Waiters and waitresses moved gracefully between the tables, carrying trays of delectable appetizers and glasses of fine wine. Everyone was in high spirits, chatting and laughing, the atmosphere electric with excitement.
As the host, George Bishop, a distinguished and powerful man in his late fifties, stood at the entrance to the ballroom, welcoming his guests with a wide smile. He wore his dress military uniform, adorned with medals and badges of honor, and a sash across his chest, a sign of his rank and status. His dark, graying hair was slicked back, and his piercing blue eyes scanned the crowd, making sure everything was perfect.
George was a man of great wealth and influence, and he had spared no expense in hosting this grand event. From the exquisite cuisine prepared by world-renowned chefs to the breathtaking floral arrangements and live music, the dinner party was a true testament to his taste and refinement. He was a respected figure in the military, and his connections and friendships spanned all levels of society, from the highest-ranking officials to the wealthiest business magnates.
Among the sea of well-dressed guests were two women who stood out in their elegant and stylish attire. Naomi Evans and Rieri Bishop, the investigators from the Army Military Police, looked radiant and poised. Both of them wore long, flowing dresses that accentuated their feminine curves and showcased their beauty. Naomi's dress was a deep shade of emerald green that perfectly complemented her vibrant personality, while Rieri's gown was a delicate lavender, reflecting her calm and composed demeanor. Their hair was meticulously styled, and their makeup was flawless, highlighting their natural beauty. As the two ladies mingled with the guests, their presence was captivating, and their charm was evident in every conversation.
"(Sigh)... I can take coordinating high risk mission. I will tolerate gunfire or explosions. I can even deal with the pencil pushers and bureaucracy but this... dealing with the pompous and self-righteousness of these people is almost too much," Naomi whispered to herself as she tried to keep the fake smile on her face. Every so often, the urge to roll her eyes was overwhelming, and her patience was wearing thin.
She had been surrounded by a gaggle of socialites, each one trying to outdo the other with stories of their latest vacations, designer purchases, or exclusive events. It was like listening to a broken record, stuck on repeat. One woman, in particular, had monopolized the conversation, regaling them with tales of her recent trip to a VIP-only spa retreat on the planet Mars. Naomi couldn't help but wonder if there was any substance left in the universe to fuel the constant boasting and one-upmanship.
"Well the at least the food is good... or edible at least."
"Yeah but the portions are too small. I'm going to have to eat a whole table to fill me up," replied a visibly upset, Naomi. Her eyes were scanning the room, desperately searching for an escape from the never-ending parade of vapid conversations and superficial connections.
"I agree but a lady like yourself should watch her figure. After all you do fill out in all the right places."
"Hey don't say that! You make me sound that I am fat!"
"I didn't say that. Your body is beautiful, perfect and very tempting to touch," said a man from behind her. Turning around, Naomi saw an officer standing in front of her. The man had an arrogant smirk on his face, as if he knew exactly how to press her buttons. His smug expression was infuriating, and it took every ounce of self-control she had not to react.
That man was none other than the infamous and mysterious Captain Juuka Amenosa.
"But that wouldn't matter if you were a worm or most exotic creature to have grace these mortal eyes, I would still find your beauty impeccable!" The Captain flirted shamelessly, his eyes roaming over her form, making her feel exposed and uncomfortable.
It was a familiar sensation, one she had experienced many times in the male-dominated world of the military, but here, in the midst of the gala, his behavior felt particularly obnoxious and offensive. Naomi clenched her fists, feeling the anger rise within her. She wanted to lash out, to put him in his place, but she couldn't risk causing a scene. Not here, not in the middle of the event. Instead, she plastered a forced smile on her face and gritted her teeth, determined not to let him see the effect his words had on her.
Naomi's eyes narrowed as she stared at the captain. "Captain Juuka Amenosa, correct? What's a lowlife like you doing at a classy event like this? Last I checked, the garbage collection service didn't include a free ticket to the ball," she quipped, her voice dripping with contempt.
Juuka's lips curled into a satisfied grin, clearly enjoying the challenge. He leaned in closer, his breath warm against her ear as he whispered, "Oh, come now, Major Evans. Surely you didn't think you could get rid of me that easily? I've been looking forward to our little dance all night."
With a swift, calculated move, he grabbed her hand and pulled her onto the dance floor. Naomi stumbled, caught off guard by the sudden movement, her protests falling on deaf ears. The music swirled around them, a mesmerizing melody that seemed to mock her as Juuka expertly led her through the steps of the waltz.
"Because this Captain is not just a master of war but also Artisan of Dance!"
As they danced, his grip tightened on her waist, pulling her uncomfortably close. Naomi could feel the heat of his body against hers, the intoxicating scent of his cologne invading her senses. She struggled to maintain her composure, her heart pounding in her chest. She hated him, detested everything he stood for, and yet, in that moment, she couldn't help but be drawn to him.
"Get your hands off me, you filthy pig," she hissed, her voice barely above a whisper.
"But my dear, this will be our moment where will tell our children and family of how this Devilishly Cunning and Strapping Young Captain was able to sweep the Fair Maiden of War off her feet." He responded, his smirk never faltering.
Despite her anger and disgust, a strange thrill ran through her veins. There was something dangerous, forbidden, about the way he touched her, the way his eyes bored into hers. As the dance continued, she found herself lost in the rhythm, her body moving in perfect harmony with his, their steps in sync. For a fleeting moment, she allowed herself to forget the circumstances that brought them together, to lose herself in the intimacy of the dance.
But as the song drew to a close, the spell was broken. Naomi abruptly pulled away, her breathing ragged, her cheeks flushed. She glared at Juuka, her anger returning full force.
"Well my M'Lady, it was privilege to have this dance with you." Captain Amenosa did a bow as he left into the crowd and disappear like a phantom of the ball.
"Damn him," she muttered, storming off the dance floor, her thoughts consumed by the enigmatic captain. Little did she know that their encounter was just the beginning of an intricate game of seduction and deception, where the lines between love and hate would become dangerously blurred. In the depths of her mind, she couldn't shake the feeling that, in the end, Juuka would prove to be the ultimate victor in their twisted dance.
Captain Juuka Amenosa was not a man to be underestimated. His every action was carefully calculated, his every word laced with double meaning. Yet, there was something infuriatingly captivating about him that had ensnared Naomi Evans, the fierce and independent major, against her will. Their latest confrontation had left her reeling, the memory of his touch still lingering on her skin, his mocking laughter echoing in her ears.
"Wonderful party this is Admiral Bishop." Said a guest of the Gala.
"I can not believe that I am in presence of such a beautiful and charming daughter. You have raised her well sir!" Another guest complimented.
"I am so honored to have everyone here tonight, please enjoy the festivities. It is rare to have a party in these trying times." Admiral Bishop replied in a loud booming voice, his smile wide and genuine. Rieri was standing beside him, wearing a flowing lavender dress that complemented her sparkling teal colored eyes. She looked radiant, her beauty enhanced by the soft glow of the chandeliers overhead. Around her neck hung a necklace, a delicate silver chain with a small, gleaming diamond at its center. It was the only piece of jewelry she wore, but it seemed to shine brighter than all the other glittering gems in the room combined.
"Admiral, are you going to start your speech soon? The guests are growing restless." whispered his aide, nervously looking at his watch. Time was ticking away, and the evening was drawing to a close. George nodded, his smile never fading. He stepped forward, his commanding presence filling the room. Everyone fell silent, eagerly anticipating his words.
"My dear friends and colleagues, thank you for joining me tonight. We are gathered here to celebrate the achievements of my beloved daughter, Rieri Bishop," he began, his voice warm and inviting. "She has worked tirelessly, day and night, to achieve the ideal and aspiration that embody the Values and Virtue of the New Solars and the Outer Colonies."
George paused, allowing his words to sink in. The crowd murmured in approval, nodding their heads and smiling at Rieri. She blushed, her cheeks turning a rosy pink. George continued, his voice strong and resolute. "Rieri has proven herself to be a leader, a visionary, and a role model for us all. She has dedicated her life to serving the greater good, and we are fortunate to have her as a shining example of what is possible when we put our minds and hearts to work."
The audience applauded, their admiration and respect evident in their eyes. George gestured to his daughter, urging her to step forward. Rieri hesitated for a moment, her nerves getting the better of her. But then, she took a deep breath and moved to the front of the stage, her head held high.
"Thank you, everyone," she started, her voice trembling slightly. "I am honored to receive such recognition from my father and all of you. I have poured my heart and soul into my work, and I could not have done it without the support and guidance of those around me."
Her confidence grew as she continued, the crowd listening intently to her every word. "As a woman in the military, I have faced challenges and obstacles, but I have persevered, determined to prove that gender is not a barrier to success. I hope that my accomplishments will inspire other women to pursue their dreams, no matter how difficult or daunting they may seem. Together, we can create a future where everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, can thrive and excel."
Rieri's words resonated with the audience, her passion and conviction clear in her tone. Applause erupted once again, echoing throughout the hall. Admiral Bishop beamed with pride, his heart swelling with love and admiration for his daughter.
"As we move forward, let us remember the importance of unity and collaboration. Let us strive to uplift one another, to support and empower each other, and to work together towards a brighter tomorrow. Thank you, everyone, for your unwavering support. May the New Solars and Colonies continue to shine brightly, guided by the spirit of excellence and integrity that we hold dear." Rieri finished, her final words ringing in the air.
The applause lasted for several minutes, the audience rising to their feet in a standing ovation. Rieri and her father exchanged a knowing glance, their bond stronger than ever before. As the event drew to a close, Admiral Bishop approached his daughter as he had an important announcement for his daughter.
"Which is why Rieri, I would like to offer you the position of commander of the newly developed and cutting edge prototype battleship... battleship Juno's Promise, a prestigious vessel that will serve as a symbol of strength and unity in the Space Federation. With you at the helm, I have no doubt that the Juno's Promise will become a beacon of hope and progress, leading us to a brighter future. So, my dear, what do you say? Are you ready to embark on this exciting journey and make your mark on the stars?" Admiral George Bishop said enthusiastically to his daughter hoping that she would accept the position
"I would be honored, Father," Rieri replied, her voice filled with emotion. "It is an immense privilege to be entrusted with the command of the Juno's Promise, and I promise to uphold the values of the New Solars and the Space Federation with honor and integrity. Thank you, Father, for believing in me and giving me the chance to prove myself."
Admiral Bishop smiled warmly, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "I have complete faith in you, Rieri. You have shown exceptional judgement and I know that you will rise to the challenge and lead the crew of the Juno's Promise to great heights. Together, we will continue to explore the cosmos, forge new alliances, and protect the interests of the Space Federation and of the Neo Solar Colonies. But most importantly, we will never forget the importance of compassion and understanding, the cornerstones of a peaceful and prosperous society."
He responded proudly to his daughter.
"I understand, Father. As the commander of the Juno's Promise, I will strive to be a role model and a leader, setting a standard of excellence and integrity that will inspire those under my command. Thank you, Father, for this opportunity and for the faith you have placed in me. I will not let you or the New Solars down."
George Bishop nodded, his eyes shining with pride.
"I know you won't, Rieri. With the combined efforts of the entire crew, the Juno's Promise will become a legend in its own right, a testament to the power of unity, cooperation, and the indomitable spirit of the Neo Solar Colonies. May the winds of the galaxy be at your back, my dear, and may the stars guide your path."
With a final embrace, Admiral George Bishop and Commander Rieri received a round of applause from the guest of the party as the event was reaching its near end. The two then parted ways, and Rieri made her way through the crowd, basking in the congratulations and well-wishes of her peers and superiors. Her heart was full of gratitude and determination, ready to take on the challenges that lay ahead, to explore the unknown, and to bring honor to herself, her family, and the Neo Solar Colony.
"Well now that was quite the speech. If I didn't know any better OIe' Georgie Boy was looking to run for office or a position among the Four Elders back on earth but I guess the man always had a flare for the dramatics...it's probably the only reason why I agree to even come here at all."
Rieri felt her a pit form in her stomach as she heard the one voice she did not care for or wanted to be here as this one thing, this one person was truly the bane of her existence.
"But I must say, Commander, You do look rather ravishing in that dress of yours as any lesser man would turn to stone should your bewitching gaze fall upon them, but fear not! This Captain is not like most men!"
Reiri saw the man of mystery and the man who she despise the most...
Captain Juuka Amenosa
He had a certain aura of confidence and danger to him that seemed to attract and repulse others at the same time. His black hair was slicked back, revealing a sharp, angular face that exuded an air of authority and intelligence. His blue eyes were dark and piercing giving him a roguish, yet enigmatic appearance. He wore a tailored suit that accentuated his lean, athletic physique, and his movements were fluid and graceful, hinting at his years of military training.
"Captain Amenosa," Reiri greeted, her voice cool and professional, masking her disdain. "It's a surprise to see you here, considering the company you keep and the rumors that follow you."
"Ah, well truth is always stranger than fiction as they say and as you can see I too can be proper member of society. Besides I'm more of a lover than a fighter." Juuka replied with a smirk, taking a sip of his wine. "But enough about me, let's talk about you. Your recent command of newly minted Battleship the Juno's Promise is quite the achievement. Congratulations."
"Thank you, but I'm sure you didn't seek me out just to offer congratulations." Rieri retorted, her eyes narrowing slightly.
"Can't I not bask in your radiance and beauty? For surely the heavens has blessed us for such a beautiful goddess to behold." Juuka complimented, his voice dripping with charisma. "And besides I thought the both of us could share a drink and maybe even a dance or two. It's not every day we get a chance to enjoy such a prestigious event, especially since the threat of the Neo Terra still looms over our heads. One might call my offer a temporary truce of sorts. Just a little fun between colleagues, nothing more."
"A truce, huh?" Rieri scoffed, crossing her arms. "With you, there's always an ulterior motive. You're a troublemaker, Captain. I've heard the stories, and I'm not interested in playing games."
Juuka raised an eyebrow, his smile unwavering. "Games? Who's playing games? I'm simply offering a moment of respite from the constant tension of our duties. A chance to let loose and enjoy the night. Or are you afraid that you can't handle a bit of friendly banter?"
Rieri's eyes flashed with indignation, her pride getting the better of her. "Fine. One dance. But don't think this changes anything between us. I'm not someone easily swayed, not even by the infamous 'Captain of the Hounds.'"
As the two of them took to the dance floor, the atmosphere shifted. Juuka's charm and skill as a dancer were undeniable, and despite herself, Rieri couldn't help but be captivated by the way he moved. The music seemed to flow through him, his movements graceful and fluid, as if the rhythm lived within his very soul. For a moment, her icy exterior began to thaw, and she found herself enjoying the dance, the weight of her responsibilities temporarily forgotten. As the song came to an end, they stood in the center of the room, breathless and exhilarated. The onlookers, who had gathered to watch their impressive display, applauded enthusiastically.
Amidst the noise, Juuka leaned in, his lips brushing against her ear, and whispered, "Perhaps we could continue our conversation elsewhere, away from prying eyes and eager ears. There's much more to discuss, wouldn't you agree, Commander Bishop?"
Rieri hesitated for a moment before nodding, her curiosity piqued by his enigmatic invitation. As they walked together, their steps in perfect harmony, whispers followed them, speculating about the nature of their relationship and the true purpose of their meeting. Little did anyone know, their shared secret was about to unfold in the most unexpected of ways, challenging the boundaries of loyalty, duty, and desire.
The two were walking outside around the estate grounds in silence at first. Both were lost in their thoughts, contemplating the gravity of what was to come.
"So, what do you want to talk about, Captain?" Rieri broke the silence, her voice laced with caution and a hint of suspicion. Despite their agreement on a truce, she was still wary of the man next to her, uncertain of his true intentions.
Juuka glanced at her, a wry smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. "Well, my dear commander, it's not every day that we get a chance to speak candidly. I thought it might be a good opportunity to clear the air and perhaps even find some common ground."
"Common ground?" Rieri scoffed, her eyes narrowing.
"Yes common ground. I feel like we got off on the wrong foot." Juuka smiled as he was looking straight ahead. He continued to say, "We don't have to be enemies, you and I. We both want the same thing – to protect the people of the Federation from the threat of the Neo Terra's faction and to maintain peace. Maybe if we worked together, we could achieve our goals more effectively."
Rieri couldn't hide her surprise. She had always viewed the captain of the hounds as a ruthless soldier, willing to do whatever it takes to accomplish his mission. But here he was, suggesting that they collaborate and put aside their differences. Could he be sincere? Or was this just another ploy, another tactic to throw her off guard?
"We can work together. Granted my...quirks can be a bit much for a woman like you but that doesn't mean that I am not a professional." Juuka said, his voice taking on a more serious tone.
"Quirks, huh?" Rieri's lips curled into a slight smirk. "You mean your tendency to act on impulse and disregard protocol?"
Juuka laughed, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "Oh, come on, Commander. Admit it. You've enjoyed our little games of cat and mouse. The thrill of the chase, the adrenaline rush. It keeps things interesting, doesn't it?"
Rieri shook her head, unable to contain her amusement. Despite herself, she found his carefree attitude refreshing, a stark contrast to the stiff and formal atmosphere that surrounded her daily life. Maybe, just maybe, there was more to Captain Juuka Amenosa than meets the eye.
"Regardless, we have to work together on orders from the Admiral...your father, as permanently attached my unit to your command." Juuka sighed. His face no longer had his usual flippant expression. There was only cold resolve and determination.
"WHAT!?" Rieri was shocked. Why would her father attach the Hounds of Orion to her personal staff. Her mind began to race as she tried to think of all the reasons why her father would do such a thing. But she could not grasp the answer.
"Why would he do such a thing, What is the meaning of this!?" Rieri exclaimed. Her anger rising as her emotions were becoming unstable.
"Your father, the Admiral, sees me as an asset to the New Solars and has placed me on permanent assignment. Though I am thrilled to be under your lovely command, I just wanted to run this little piece of info before you got the news from him." Juuka said, his voice taking on a more firm tone. His eyes sparkled with a mix of mischief and sincerity, a blend that seemed almost contradictory in his playful demeanor.
"An asset!? You are a liability at best!" Rieri couldn't help but scoff, her frustration and disbelief evident in her voice. How could her father place him on permanent assignment?
"Yup, so I look forward to our...Marriage? Partnership?...Maybe lovers tryst?" Juuka grinned, his smile spreading from ear to ear. He couldn't help but tease her a little, enjoying the way her cheeks flushed with a mixture of anger and embarrassment.
"I will have a word with my father and see what the hell he is thinking. No, in fact I will refuse any such nonsense and will not accept the likes of you!" Rieri huffed, her eyes flashing with determination. She would not let her father's decision stand. She would fight it tooth and nail.
"Too bad, the Admiral orders are final." Juuka said his eyes were still locked onto her. His stare was intense and unyielding. He was not going to let her go that easily, even if it meant pushing her buttons a little further. "Well anyways, I hope to see ya tomorrow at the Juno's Promise maiden voyage."
Rieri was left in shock was Captain Amenosa sashay his way out of the estate, leaving her in a whirlwind of emotions. Rage, confusion, and a tinge of curiosity swirled within her. How dare he speak to her in such a way, and to assume that she would just accept his partnership? And yet, despite her anger and indignation, there was a part of her that was intrigued by the challenge. Maybe, just maybe, there was more to this man than he was an obvious threat...well to her at least.
***The Bishop Family Estate, The Mansion's Study Room***
"WHAT DO MEAN YOU CAN'T HAVE HIM REASSIGNED!" Rieri Bishop yelled as she stood in front of her father.
Admiral George Bishop, who was sitting calmly on his desk patiently waiting for his daughter's tantrum to finish. After a while of silence, he finally spoke up.
"My daughter, the decision has been made, and I believe that it will be in both of your interests to work together. Captain Juuka Amenosa has proven himself to be an extremely capable soldier, and having him as a member of your staff will greatly benefit us."
"But Father, I know next to nothing about this man. I've have tried searching his records and service history, but they are all classified and above my rank clearance." Rieri argued, her voice trembling. She knew that her father's words held weight, and she couldn't deny the logic in his statement, but her feelings were still a tangled mess of emotion and doubt. "I feel like I can't trust him, that his intentions are ulterior. Why would he agree to such an arrangement, anyway?"
Admiral George Bishop sighed, his gaze softening with a hint of sadness. "Rieri, you must understand that the world we live in is not always black and white. There are shades of grey, and sometimes, the lines between good and evil are blurred. Juuka is a man with a troubled past, but that doesn't mean he's beyond redemption."
Rieri stared at her father, her eyes wide with disbelief. She couldn't fathom why her father was being so lenient with a man whose loyalty was clearly in question.
"Then why is all of his records of him and his men kept under such high security clearance?" she demanded, her voice rising in frustration. "Why are we keeping him and his squad a secret from the rest of the military and the public?"
"Because, my child, there are things that are better left hidden from the public eye. Secrets that would shake the foundations of our society if exposed," Admiral George Bishop replied, his tone solemn and heavy with the burden of his knowledge. "We cannot afford to risk chaos and disorder, no matter how noble our intentions may seem. That is why we have to tread carefully and make decisions that are not always popular or easy to understand."
"So you're telling me that Juuka and his men are a necessary evil?" Rieri spat out, her words dripping with bitterness. "That we should just overlook their questionable activities because they serve a purpose? That's not justice, that's cowardice!"
"I know it's hard to accept, but sometimes, the greater good requires us to compromise," her father said gently, trying to soothe her anger. "Juuka and his team have their uses, and their actions have prevented worse outcomes. It is a balance that we must maintain to ensure the safety of everyone."
Rieri clenched her fists, her knuckles turning white from the strain. She couldn't shake the feeling that her father was hiding something from her, something dark and sinister that lurked beneath the surface of their conversation. But no matter how much she pressed him, he remained tight-lipped and secretive.
"Well at least can you get the man to stop flirting with me and Naomi!" Reiri exclaimed, her face flushed with anger and embarrassment. "It's unprofessional and inappropriate! He has no respect for rank or discipline!"
Admiral George Bishop let out a sigh, his shoulders sagging in defeat. "I'll have a word with him, but I can't guarantee that he'll listen. Juuka has always been a bit of a wild card, and getting him to follow orders has never been an easy task. I've tried to talk to the lad about his behavior, but, I am sorry to admit, that the boy is a tad bit stubborn and set in his ways. I can't tell you the amount of times that I had to cover up his various escapades and affairs in the military. You think it would be easy since his records are highly classified, and the women are willing participants but nope! Just last month the chap had to pay a fine to the wife of a general whom he had slept with, when the woman's husband found out."
Reiri crossed her arms, a scowl etched onto her face. "Fine, but if he continues to harass me, I'll deal with him myself. And trust me, it won't be pleasant."
"Ah, well, that is a bit of a problem, now isn't it," her father sheepishly stated. "Just don't kill the lad..."
Every chance the bastard got, he would try and hit on her or Naomi. He was a persistent and determined playboy, who never gave up. No matter how many times, either of them turned him down, he would still pursue them relentlessly. It was infuriating, and yet, despite her best efforts, Reiri found herself secretly intrigued by Juuka. He was unlike any other man, she had ever encountered. He was confident, charming, and had a certain magnetism that drew her in, despite her better judgment. Naomi was not faring any better, as the man had somehow managed to crack through her tough exterior.
As the meeting came to a close, Reiri stormed out of her father's office, her mind racing with thoughts of Juuka and the upcoming mission. She couldn't deny that she was drawn to him, in spite of his reputation and flirtatious nature. But, she reminded herself, this was no time for distractions or personal feelings. She had a job to do, and she couldn't afford to let anything, or anyone, get in the way of that. Especially not Juuka, the man who was starting to occupy her thoughts a little too often for comfort. Despite her annoyance, and perhaps a touch of fear, Rieri couldn't help but wonder what her next interaction with the man would bring.
"God, the nerve of that bastard," Naomi hissed. "I can't believe he has the audacity to act that way towards us, especially after everything we've been through. It's bad enough that he's insufferably arrogant and cocky, but to make a move on both of us? That's just downright disrespectful. How can he possibly think that's okay?"
"Unfortunately, it's something we're going to have to learn to deal with," Rieri replied, her tone somber. "We can't control his actions, no matter how much we want to. All we can do is focus on our mission and try not to let his behavior distract us."
"Still the fact that your father, the Admiral had that pig attached to or outfit is...questionable at best." Naomie retorted
"My father has his reasons, and whether we agree with them or not, we have to trust his judgment. He wouldn't put us in danger or in a situation that he didn't think we could handle. We need to have faith in his decision and concentrate on the task at hand. If we can manage to keep our cool and stay focused, we'll be able to complete this mission and prove that we're not to be trifled with. We'll show him that we're capable, intelligent women who are more than worthy of his respect and admiration." Rieri spoke passionately. Trying to convince her partner that the admiral had a plan and knew what he was doing.
"Fine but that Doesn't mean I have to like it... so we are really stuck with skirt chasing douche bag...well there are worse things that could happen to us." Naomi huffed out.
"I know, and believe me, I'm not exactly thrilled about working with him either," Rieri admitted.
**Neo Solar Military Space Port and Hangar Bay***
The two women made their way to the Neo Solar military shipyards as they took a car to the are. The drive was short as Reiri was watching the streets of the colony of Titan. She thought to herself that her husband and her would live on the moon of titan and enjoy a quiet and peaceful life. Reiri's thoughts turned to her fiance, Yu Amada, and she couldn't help but feel a twinge of sadness. Their engagement had been full of happiness and passion, and the idea of a future together had filled her with hope. But now, as a veteran officer, she had to face the reality that their lives were headed in different directions. She had chosen to pursue her career in the military, while Yu had remained on Titan, likely finding solace in his own work. It hurt to think that their dreams of a shared future had slipped away, but Reiri was determined to find a new purpose in her service to the New Solar faction and to the greater whole.
The women arrived at the front gate and provided the security staff their identifications as they were waved in. A soldier was waiting to escort them to the a heavily secured hanger bay. As the heavy blast doors slowly opened and the two women were greeted by a sight that was both impressive and intimidating. Before them stood the Battleship Carrier Juno's Promise. Despite its name, the vessel was a massive and formidable presence, its sleek lines and imposing size commanding attention and awe. Rieri and Naomi felt the weight of responsibility that came with serving on such a prestigious ship. They could sense the pride and dedication that went into maintaining and developing the New Prototype Battleship, and they were eager to start their journey and make their mark on history. As the women walked aboard, the crew saluted and welcomed them on deck. Rieri and Naomi returned the salute, feeling a sense of honor and belonging as they joined the ranks of the Battleship's personnel.
"Permission to come On-Broad the Juno's Promise." Rieri saluted as the Captain of the New Ship and Her XO were standing in front of her and Naomi
"Permission Granted, Welcome onboard." Stated the Captain as she and her XO return the Salute.
"Thank you Ma'am!" replied Rieri and Naomi in unison.
***The Juno's Promise***
As Rieri and Naomi surveyed the interior of the newly developed battleship, the Juno's Promise, their excitement was palpable. The ship, despite being in the early stages of development, was equipped with advanced weaponry and systems that were unparalleled in the current era. The women's eyes were drawn to the state-of-the-art weapons that adorned the ship, including a multitude of laser blasters, railguns, and missile launchers. These were not mere relics of the past; rather, the Juno's Promise had the latest, cutting-edge technological advancements integrated into its design, ensuring that the ship was at the forefront of innovation. However, their attention was particularly captivated by a specific weapon that had yet to be disclosed to the public. This mysterious weapon, shrouded in secrecy and referred to only in hushed whispers, held the promise of immense power and capabilities. Its true nature and purpose were veiled in a thick cloak of mystery, and the anticipation of what this new weapon might bring was palpable in the air.
"It's quite the privilege and pleasure to meet the famous celebrity Special Army investigator...Commander Reiri Bishop." The Captain said she gave a Reiri a soft smile. " But please allow me to introduce myself. I am Captain Murruko Ramius of the Juno's Promise and this here is my XO, Natarlie Badgiruel."
"Captain Ramius and Lieutenant Badgiruel. Thank you for your warm welcome." Rieri smiled as she and Naomi followed Captain Murrue around the ship. "I must say the rumors of the newest battleship in the fleet are certainly not exaggerated. She is indeed a beautiful ship. It is an honor to work with you and your crew."
"Indeed," Naomi added as her eyes were glued to the Juno's Promise weapon systems. "We have heard the stories and tales of your battle prowess on the battlefield and it will be an honor to help the heroes of the 3rd Outer Ring War."
Just then, a small voice came from the intercom of the Juno's Promise as Captain Ramius answered her comlink device. "What is it, Lieutenant Edwards?"
"We just received a message from HQ. They want us the bridge in 5 mins. Apparently, there has been a change in plans." replied the female officer from the bridge. Captain Ramius nodded and looked at her XO and the two special investigators. "Well shall we? No use dawdling. Looks like the brass is getting impatient. Please follow me."
"Thank you, ma'am." Rieri stated to the captain. As the group made their way to the elevator, they passed a series of doors labeled with the names of various personnel. Each door had a small window, allowing a glimpse inside. Some of the rooms appeared to be occupied, while others remained empty.
Each door was adorned with a unique symbol, signifying the different departments and responsibilities of those who resided behind them. There were the quarters for the engineering team, marked with a distinctive gear-shaped emblem. Opposite to that were the accommodations for the medical staff, bearing a prominent red cross. Further along the corridor, the officers' cabins stood out, distinguished by a gold star emblazoned on their doors. And finally, at the very end, the largest and most impressive door bore the name of the captain, Captain Murruko Ramius. It was embellished with a majestic eagle, its wings spread wide, representing the authority and leadership that emanated from within.
The two women continued on their way as they met many of the crew and staff as they head their way to the bridge. Eventually, the doors opened to reveal the command center of the Juno's Promise. Rieri and Naomi were both amazed to see the size of the room and how busy it was. People ran back and forth carrying papers, computers, and other equipment. A hologram projection of a map was displayed on the wall, showing the entire solar system from Earth all the way to Pluto. On the table sat a massive console filled with buttons and switches. Several screens showed images of different parts of the galaxy. Everything seemed so organized and efficient. It was almost overwhelming. The girls had never seen anything like it before. Their mouths hung open in awe at the sight of the enormous vessel.
"Wow, this place looks amazing," Naomi remarked as she scanned the area as she turned to her friend, "Isn't that right, Commander Rieri?"
Rieri shook her head in agreement. Both women couldn't wait to see what kind of potential the ship possessed. But first things first; they needed to find out why they were called to the bridge.
Captain Ramius approached them and began speaking, "Now, let's get down to business." The captain motioned towards the holographic image of the map. "As I mentioned earlier, there has been a change in plans."
"Change?" questioned Rieri. "What do mean change in plans?"
Captain Ramius took a deep breath and explained, "Due to unforeseen circumstances, we have received from an anonymous source from one our deep cover agents that an encrypted transmission from Titan orbital defense station platform 'Atlas' was sent out to and was picked up by a deep listening station far off from here...our experts were able to decode parts of the transmission but it was heavily encrypted. We were only able to get a rough transcript of the conversation, and unfortunately, it seems like the Neo Terras are plotting to kidnap some VIPs but the identity of the VIPs is unknown at this time, however, we know that the hit is scheduled to take place somewhere in the Outer Rim Territories and that the culprit is none other than the notorious terrorist known as Donny Bogan."
"Donny Bohgan?" asked Naomi. "Are you sure?"
"Yes. That is the gist of it. We don't know who exactly the target will be or where, but we can assume that whoever it is must have ties to the New Solar. Otherwise, they wouldn't risk kidnapping such an important figure. However, since the attack will occur in the outer rim territories, the likelihood is that the Neo Terra might have an agent or a mole in the upper ranks of the New Solars. We suspect that the mole is someone high up within the political structure of the faction."
"A traitor among us, huh?" said Rieri, crossing her arms. "I wonder how long ago this started."
"I wouldn't worry too much about that," replied the captain dismissively. "It's nothing to concern yourself over. Just focus on doing your job."
Rieri nodded, and the group continued to discuss the situation. After a bit of debate, the two investigators were finally briefed on the full details of the mission.
"We'll leave immediately," stated Rieri firmly. "We have no choice but to go now and stop this from happening."
"The Juno's Promise is ready to embark whenever your ready," replied Captain Ramius. "Just give me the word, and we'll depart. My crew can handle anything that comes our way."
"Alright then. Let's get moving."
With that, the team set off on their journey, heading out to the distant planet in search of the mysterious criminal mastermind, and his minions, hoping to put an end to his schemes once and for all. As soon as the ship exited the orbit of Saturn, the atmosphere shifted drastically, becoming noticeably colder and darker. The temperature dropped significantly, causing goosebumps to form along everyone's skin. There were no stars visible above the horizon, leaving the night sky completely pitch-black, and devoid of any kind of light except for the occasional twinkling of a passing starship.
But in the Darkness of Space, therein lies a beast who seeks to consume those who keep him chained...and wishes for his own Freedom from the Grand Game of the Stars.
A/N: And that's a wrap. So this is the second chapter and there will be a little exposition before the main story of Kangoku Senkan starts off as it will be a very short first Arc since most of it will take place on the Jasant Battleship. Speaking of Battleships, the Juno's Promise ship design is based off of the Macross Elysion (SDF/C-108) from Macross Delta but it won't transform into a giant mecha as that would too much of a super weapon in the Kangoku Senkan Universe. Well anyways hope you guys enjoyed this chapter and stay tune for the next one!