[FIC] Darkness, Shadows, and Pure White Light {Chapter X}
Posted: Sat Nov 15, 2003 3:20 am
She looked at her desk top. He had done it again. As if the same lame trick would work after THAT!
There was a crystal decanter, filled with long stem roses. A dozen heart shaped balloons. A large stuffed bear holding a gold foil box of expensive Belgian chocolates. A pair of tickets to the most talked about new play.
There was a tangible scent of anger in the air. She was angry at HIM--lipstick stains on his collar and a lame ass excuse that challenged her intelligence. She was angry at HERSELF--this wasn't the first evidence she had of his wandering affections.
It only took a few steps to reach the telephone. A call to maintenance was in order: "Hello, this is Miss Kaname Chidori. There was a lot of junk left on my desk. Could you please send someone up with a trash bin and have the items removed. Thank you."
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It had been a satisfying assignment. The island setting had been relaxing. The simple food had done his system good. It was nice to get some fishing in again.
He had spent the last month acting as an instructor. The new Halberd AS, the HBD-5, was a fine machine. The lambda driver interface was still tricky, but the new power plant was phenomenal, and the standard weapons package was cutting edge. Many of his proteges had proven eager, even though they were not all natural talents. They had come along very well before the end of the sessions. The most talented trio was a handful, however. A hot headed young woman. A young man who took nothing seriously. And a quiet detached youth with the gift.
He shook his head thinking about the trouble makers. He hoped his assessment would prove correct: they should end up as the hot new Mithril squad some day down the road. He smiled tightly, realizing that not too many years ago he had been part of just such an ungainly crew. It would be good to get back to the TDD-3--he missed Kurz and Melissa.
An orderly drove up swiftly in a militarized electric golf cart. "A message for you, Lt. Sagara!"
Sousuke thanked the young man, and sent him on his way. Was this a new assignment?
He opened the envelope and looked at the memo. Osaka. Japan. He hadn't been to the land of his birth for four years...ever since the occurence.
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Kaname was miffed at herself. She hadn't had the courage to tell Kyouko the truth. She had claimed to be fabulously happy, with a wonderful boyfriend. She truthfully told her old friend that she missed Tokyo, but somehow felt safer in Osaka. Not that deranged killers and secret organizations couldn't trace her there too...but it had been a fresh start after her graduation. And it placed her a good distance from the site of painful memories as well. It had been hard finishing college alone.
She was ecstatic to hear that Kyouko was engaged, but at the same time felt a deep sadness welling up within herself. She had gone from boyfriend to boyfriend, trying to fill the emptiness she felt inside. Was she such a poor judge of character, or was she simply tilting at windmills? She sighed. She did not want to think that name at the moment.
The apartment was too quiet. She turned the stereo on, and flippedf through the channels. No, she was not in the mood for classical. Or electronic, techno, or alternative. The last channel she tried was coming out of a news break, mentioning something about a kidnapping down town. The first song after the break was by Enya. She quickly ran back to the stereo and shut it off.
Kaname did NOT want to think about anything celtic...but it was too late. Her thoughts naturally led her to the words Tuatha De Danaan. And that, of course, brought back the painful memory of the final communique she had recieved from Mithril before that organization apparently disappeared from her life.
The TDD-1 had been lost at sea, fully crewed. With all SRT members on board. All.
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After he had finished packing his clothing bag and his weapons kit, Sousuke went down his mental checklist, cleaning up all of his loose ends. As his final act prior to shutting off the light and heading out the door of his quarters, he checked the messages on his answering machine.
There was one message from Capt. Concepcion. It seemed she would not give up trying to sink her hooks into him again. There was yet another invitation to a two-person party from a shapely young visiting dignitary's daughter who wanted to celebrate her recent recruitment to Mithril...and her successful salpingectomies. And there was a message from Kurz, asking him to bring his diary when he returned to the TDD-3.
Sousuke sighed. He still didn't understand women, but he had started to notice them more and more. Nonetheless, he was not profligate. Flings and one night stands did not appeal to his innermost needs, and he did not have any current desire for a long term relationship. He knew the reason why.
His assignment in Tokyo had ended abruptly. There had been no further reason for him to stay. He still remembered the shock he felt when Captain Testarossa delivered the report to him, tears in her eyes.
Kaname had been in an automobile accident. By report, her car had been struck by a fuel truck, and the resulting blaze had consumed her and the patrons of a small gasoline station. Sousuke could still taste the bilious taste in his mouth that he had when he was informed that his newest mission would keep him from attending her funeral. The safehouse near his and Kaname's college had been cleaned out by a sweeper team, and his belongings had been packaged and brought to him at sea. He still could not bring himself to open many of the boxes.
Tessa had campaigned long and hard for a more intimate relationship after his automatic reassignment, but her timing had proven impractical and unwise. He had not been ready. It would not be proper. Eventually, he had requested and received permission to transfer to the newest of the Tuatha De Danaan class submersibles.
He wondered if he would ever be ready for anyone.
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Kaname finished off the bottle of champagne. She had been sarcastically toasting her one week anniversary of being a totally free woman. She placed the empty bottle on the table and gave it a spin, her thoughts slowing gradually as the rotation came to a halt.
She had just recieved an unexpected promotion, and should be elated. It was a clear indication that her talents were recognized, and it brought a fair increase in salary. Her division was doing very well, and sales had not been this brisk in over a decade. She was pleased with the turn of events, but her thoughts kept going back to her lack of success in relationships.
Who would have thought that Sousuke would have come to mean that much to her?
A small deformed calico cat limped up to her, looking for affection. Kaname smiled. She had rescued the poor thing from an animal shelter she had walked by. It had looked so lonely, so forlorn, pressed up against the window. She had brought it home, and initially named it Tessa, but later gave the spunky creature a reprieve, renaming her Iris after she had knocked over a vase of flowers.
Kaname walked into the kitchen, and rummaged about the cabinets, looking for a tin of cat food. All out! It was time for a trip to the grocery store, even though she was hardly in the mood. But, the fresh air might do her good. She grabbed her coat and her purse and headed out the door. The weight of her purse was comforting, but also saddened her. She opened the purse and checked the Glock 27 Sousuke had given her. The clip was full.
For a brief while, Kaname was surrounded by dancing memories, some causing her to smile, others causing her eyes to tear. At one moment, she thought about removing a gift-wrapped grenade from the closet. It had been one of the last gifts that Sousuke had given her. Somehow, it meant more to her than the pearls, and gold, and carved jade that subsequent men had showered upon her. She almost dropped the grenade into her coat pocket, thinking that Sousuke would approve.
Iris' mewing broke the spell. She headed out of the door and down the hallway of her apartment building.
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The kidnap victim in Osaka had been a well-known scientist and expert in new fusion reactor theory. Sousuke's superiors realized the adverse effect such knowledge could have if it fell into the wrong hands. And they wagered that a rescue by Mithril might gain that organization a new member.
Kurz and Melissa had argued vehemently that a couple of ECS shrouded Arm Slaves might prove invaluable as a contingency plan. Their request was not without merit, but Cmdr. Horowitz correctly noted that time was of the essence.
The two stalwarts talked to Sousuke via radio, wishing him godspeed and a safe return. Melissa asked him to bring back a couple of cases of beer from a number of select microbreweries. Kurz asked him to bring back a redhead.
Driving with his small team of specialists in a nondescript but electronically stuffed Mithril van, Sousuke caught his breath as they drove by a grocery store. He hadn't gotten a good view of the woman placing grocery bags in her car, but the glimpse he did get reminded him of Kaname. He shook his head violently, drawing curious stares from his companions. This was not the time for daydreaming.
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A chill breeze blew up Kaname's skirt, causing her to shiver momentarily. For some reason, she had a passing flash of deja vu, thinking of Sousuke. The face in the side window of a passing van had drawn her attention at the very same moment, and she almost imagined seeing a scar similar to the late Mithril sergeant's.
She had to snap out of this funk. The windows on the van had been dirty, and no doubt the marking had been outside the van, not on the blurry face she had seen.
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The rescue operation had gone off very well, after a sufficient period of surveillance, planning, and preparations. The kidnappers---a bunch of freelance mercenaries hired by a ruthless industrialist---had proven worthy opponents, but there had been no fatalities on Mithril's side. None of the kidnappers would be offering their services again, unless the military leaders in Hell were currently hiring.
Sousuke had received a few painful bruises from one furious scuffle with a large attacker, but he had once again shown an opponent the value of a boot knife. He was better off than some of his companions. A pair of Mithril sergeants sported bloody bandages on their head, torso, and limbs, but fortunately neither were in critical condition.
The scientist, physically unharmed, was frantic and near hysterical. He was given a sedative and escorted to an escorted Mithril limosine. Sousuke lost interest in him the moment the car door closed and the stretch limo drove off. His mission was complete. That was all he needed to know.
Saying his farewell to the other rescue squad members, Sousuke walked nonchalantly down to the street, waiting to hail a taxi. There was plenty of time before he needed to meet the Mithril helicopter, and he had some errands to run. He doubted he could find a redhead on short notice, but might have some luck in fulfilling Melissa's request.
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Kaname prized dilligence and perserverence in her co-workers and her underlings. She valued common sense and and good old fashioned judgement. When something was possible, or of likely success, she liked to see someone go after it with gusto. When something was unreachable, or not worth the cost and effort, she liked to see someone rein themself in and face the facts.
Her fellow employees, for the most part, exhibited many of those characteristics. Her most recent ex-boyfriend, however, did not. He had walked into her office unannounced, his arms filled with loose cut blossoms, a self-assured smile on his face. He had come to beg for her forgiveness and her return.
The nerve of him showing his face here! For the first time in a while, Kaname's hand curled, and she wished she had a halisen. She settled for picking up the receiver on her telephone, and placing her anger into her finger tip, as she mercilessly punched in the number for security. There had been few moments in the past few years as satisfying as those she subsequently spent watching two armed guards dragging the unwanted interloper away.
Kaname glanced up at the clock. It was time for her lunch break. Her mood was shot after the recent event, and she needed to find some way to calm herself down and regain an even keel. She snapped her fingers. That would do! She would treat herself to a leisurely lunch and latte at one of the downtown streetside cafes.
Letting her secretary know where she'd be, Kaname gathered up what she needed and headed on her way.
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Sousuke was in a relatively good mood. He had spent some pleasant time in a small but well-stocked book store, emerging with the newest Patrick O'Brian fiction and a historical text on the land war in China. The heavy shopping bag at his side indicated that his quest at a small number of liquor stores had been successful as well. Melissa would be happy. Kurz would have to be content with the fact that one brand of beer sported a buxom redhead on its label.
Checking his watch, he noted that he still had a fair amount of time before scheduled departure. Rumbling in his stomach led him to accost a passerby and inquire into the nearest group of food establishments. His appetite was hearty today, and he could think of no reason he shouldn't indulge himself while he was still shoreside.
Walking along the sidewalk, close to the currently quiet street, he tried to pick out faint aromas of food in the air. He luxuriated in the feeling of a calm and soothing breeze on his face. Most of his tension from earlier in the day was gone. He had grown more self-aware in the last few years, and realized that he needed opportunities to unwind from time to time.
Today was one of the days he could think back to the past and enjoy the special memories, rather than one of the more common days where any memories of Tokyo left him feeling sadly nostalgic. He thought of Kaname, and wished she could be walking with him now, hand in his hand.
His reverie was interupted by high revving engine noises, and the buzz of rapidly approaching automobiles. A swerving group of brightly colored subcompact cars, modified as street racers, flashed noisily by like a swarm of insanely painted metal bees, some passing extremely close to the place where he walked.
For a brief moment, Sousuke wished he was wrapped in the firm embrace of an HBD-5, weapons fully armed, with permission to proceed with maximum prejudice.
Not too much later, he heard another grouped sound of engine noises, this time materializing as a group of street bikes, again stretching the limits of the manufacturers' color palette. The riders lacked helmets, and their hair was tall and sculptured, or bizarrely dyed. They carried guns.
Walking more briskly, he could now see a series of streetside tables and booths up ahead, as well as a number of likely restaurants. The cars from before were parked haphazardly in the street and on the sidewalk. The motorcycles headed for the same area. Gunshots rang out.
Sousuke paused a moment. This was none of his concern. He did not wish to see innocent people injured, but he could not afford to become embroiled in a gang battle. He had his share of such encounters in the past, but that was when he had been protecting Kaname, Tessa, and others.
Instincts overcame logic and duty. He started to run towards the site of the ongoing conflict.
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The seafood chowder had been excellent...perhaps the finest food she had eaten in months. Wiping the inside of the bowl clean with the remnants of a flaky fresh baked bagette, Kaname seriously considered ordering another bowl. Looking at her watch, she sighed. Not too much time remained before she would have to head back. She would have to content herself with her remaining spiced latte.
Politely, she asked a young couple at an adjacent table if they would like to read the periodical she had purchased and finished reading during lunch. The young woman she spoke to graciously accepted the offer. Kaname and the two strangers were all on their feet soon thereafter, a raucous noise filling the air.
Close to a dozen small sports cars roared into view. With a loud squeal of rubber, the cars pulled hard slides, some ending up on the sidewalk, knocking over a few unoccupied tables, umbrellas and all. Some cars slowed more sedately, but drove their way purposely between seated groups of cafe goers.
The drivers and their passengers sauntered out of their vehicles, walking with a pronounced swagger, whistling and calling out to random patrons. They laughed loudly, brandished pistols and submachine guns, and made it a point to announce their presence with wildly staged flamboyance.
The crown princes of the city underground had arrived. The common folk should be made aware, put in their place, and taught to offer proper respect.
Seeing a mall group of miscreants look in her direction, wave, and put large grins on their faces, Kaname subtly reached her hand inside of her purse. She wished she HAD brought that grenade along. She hoped someone inside one of the restaurants or nearby shops had their wits about them, and would call the police.
When the leather clad and denim covered young men were but a few strides away from Kaname's table, a loud rumbling filled the air, making the approaching gang members quickly change their priorities. Guns in hand, they ran to find concealment amongst the sea of patrons, behind their rides, and in shop doorways. Their colorful get-ups and wild hairstyles made it difficult to entirely blend in.
Kaname knocked over her heavy metal lacework table and crouched vigilantly behind it when she heard gunshots ring out. She yelled to nearby cafe patrons to hit the ground or find suitable cover. Her cursing started when nearby bullets kicked up a small cloud of concrete particles.
She heard some children crying nearby. Their mother had been hit in the leg, and they were in the middle of a crossfire. Souske had taught Kaname well. It was time to act. It was time to be efficient and successful. Glock in hand, she started firing at visible gang members responsible for the deadly rain of lead. After hitting members of both rival factions, she ran low to the ground, intending to drag the children into better cover.
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"Damn!!!" was the only word that Sousuke said aloud, pausing behind a decorative iron alley gate to survey the rapidly worsening situation. This was a terrible mess. Targets mixed with innocents, a growing number of whom were taking collateral damage. There were elderly patrons prsent. And children. No law enforcement officers were anywhere to be seen.
Rapidly, he once again took stock of his available weapons. Scanning the surroundings, a golden opportunity prompted him to automatic action. A large cluster of gang members had taken cover behind their cars. Another nearby group of rival combatants was closing in on them, crouching low behind available cover. Two well-placed fragmentation grenades did not descrimate amongst the two groups of adversaries: members of both gangs were blown skyward, thrown fiercely against cars, or torn assunder. The punctured fuel tank of one vehicle caught fire and exploded, adding to the cacophony.
Sousuke searched for a closer point of concealment--finding one, he ran swiftly, sliding quickly on his pants legs at the end of his sprint. Pistol in hand, he rapidly took down any obvious gang member that provided him with a clear and certain shot. His immediate area cleared, he was about to move further along until he saw one gaudily dressed villain drag an elderly woman along, using her as a human shield, backing his way into a nearby laundromat.
Sousuke hesitated a moment, but the delay did not prove costly. He would not run into the shop, unaware of how man hostiles might be inside, and not wanting to paint himself into a corner. Nonetheless, he felt compelled to aid the captive woman.
Making certain that he was not in the center of an expanding area of gunfire, he hefted a wrought iron stool and tossed it through a large glass window front. Leaning inside the window shortly after the stool had made its grand entrance, he caught the sluggish captor offguard, and took him down with a shot to the head. No other potential hostiles were present. The woman appeared to be in shock, but he could spare her no more attention.
Now crouching behind a table, Sousuke looked for the nearest concentration of combatants. The number was thinning rapidly, as those gang members who had had their fill were running to their cars and bikes, attempting to make a getaway.
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With the children safely situated in a small grove of planted trees, Kaname had returned to drag their mother to safetly. Remembering Sousuke's lessons on field dressings, she used various clothing items to effect whatever effective hemostasis she could.
She considered staying concealed herself, but worried that her brightly colored outfit might draw someone's attention to her place of hiding. She didn't want to subject the children to any risk higher than necessary. Telling the woman to hold on, Kaname ran to the nearest safe place she could identify, a series of adjacent phone booths.
Hopefully, she was hidden from view. However, she felt uneasy, as her view was blocked as well. She flinched, hearing successive explosions. Grenades! Her thoughts immediately returned to Sousuke for a moment. How she wished he was here!!!
Gunshots grew louder and more frequent. Someone was using a shotgun. A submachine gun was rattling away. Pistol fire complimented the symphony of death. Peering around the corner of one of the booths, Kaname initially saw a diminishing group of still hale combatants gradually making their way in her direction. Not wanting to draw undue attention to herself, she held her pistol in two hands snuggly against her chest, refraining from firing.
If they got too much closer, she would concentrate fire on whichever gang presented the greatest potential danger to herself and the concealed children. By her estimate, she still had a fair number of shots remaining.
A number of gang members from both sides had started to run off, apparently determined to live and fight another day. Kaname wiped her brow. She tried to catch her breath, fervently praying that things would soon be over.
What a story to tell in the office.
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Sousuke was still alert, but his priorities were in transition. For the most part, the threat appeared to be dissipating, as gang members shuffled off this mortal coil, mounted and rode, or ran off afoot. He situated his weapons out of sight, so he would not appear an obvious opponent or one of the offenders. He would not allow himself to lose focus...but it was time to think about assisting the wounded, and about making a smooth anonymous exit.
He offerered comfort, directed triage amongst the nonprofessionals, and applied impromptu dressings where appropriate. His obvious skill, and cool head under pressure, won him the respect and obedience of the wounded and unscathed alike. When the ambulances started arriving in number, Sousuke checked his watch and decided it was time to head towards the meeting point. He needed to flag down an available cab, if the area hadn't been cordoned off from general traffic. If necessary, he would use his cell phone to call for a ride or check the feasibility of a delayed take-off or later pick-up.
Striding quickly through the tables---noting the human carnage, automobile remnants, and overturned tables and stalls---Sousuke began to take less and less notice now of the huddled, crying, and writhing victims. He barely caught sight of a nicely dressed young woman bending over to comfort a pair of young children, a bloodied woman at their feet. Something tugged frantically at his memory, screaming out for his attention, but he was in too much of a hurry to give it much notice.
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There was blood on her skirt and blouse, and a couple of fresh tears in her stockings. Her nice dress shoes were scuffed, and the hinge on her purse was dislocated. Kaname was not concerned about any of that. The blood was not her own, and material things could be replaced.
The crying, moaning, and gasping breaths of the injured drew her attention, and she offered whatever succor she could. She had applied pressure to the young mother's wounds until an ambulance attendant took over. A shadow caught her eye, and she got a glimpse of a torso and legs dressed in pressed black slacks and a European shirt, somewhat reminiscent of some things that Sousuke had taken to wearing at the university. She almost lifted her head angrily to call the passerby to task...there were people who needed helping here! She stayed focused, however, and the faceless man quickly exited her thoughts.
She moved progressively onward, helping an overwrought teenage couple, a limping waiter, and a near comatose businessman. If she was not able to return to work on time, she had a good excuse. The status of her clothing and the look on her face ought to prove witness enough to any doubting company official.
Kaname was feeling a little lightheaded, herself. Part of it was the incessant rush of adrenaline, the rapidly changing levels or serotinin. Part of it was the onrushing waves of nostalgia. She had been through events like this before with Sousuke. She even caught herself looking for him, to pass along a good scolding...this HAD to be his fault somehow. Sadly, she tried to curb her reflexive responses.
When it looked like things were finally under control, she found a frightened restaurant owner and paid her bill. This was no time to take advantage of the situation. Saying her thanks, and receiving gratitude in return, she headed off towards her office building.
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The helicopter would leave without him. It would not prove a problem, as another team was arriving to research a permanent safehouse in Osaka, in case the scientist in question insisted that he would remain at his current place of employment. He could leave on their flight out.
Sousuke was intent on finding a a gun shop, to replentish his diminished ammunition stock. After that, he would find a nice hotel with a good restaurant and room service. He would shower, change clothes, and take the opportunity to start on his new books.
His books! And Melissa's beer! He had stashed them in a thick area of bushes prior to joining the fray. Damn. He would need to retrace his steps and retrieve those items. Grumbling, he headed back.
Of all the luck.
His mood lifted slightly with each step. He was uninjured. He had assisted the wounded. He had helped avert a much larger catastrophe. And he would delay Armageddon, if he could successfully rescue Melissa's precious elixirs. His mind ran onward without him, reminiscing about the firefight's similarity to past adventures with Kaname.
Falling deeper and deeper into thought, he almost knocked over a young woman. Snapping out of his near trance, he lifted his head to apologize. No words would come out. He had no voluntary movement of his limbs. A small corner of his mind wondered if he had been hit by a dart filled with curare or cone shell venom.
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She had been lost in thought, slave to an impromptu urge to tally the remaining tasks awaiting her back at her place of work. Not paying strict attention to the real time scene around her, Kaname felt a strong jarring impact in her left side and shoulder. She had to scramble momentarily to maintain her balance. And her temper.
"Hey! Watch where...." her words tailed off quickly and quietly. Had she hit herself harder than she thought she had? Had she bumped her head? Was this all an elaborate daydream? She could swear she saw Sousuke standing in front of her.
"K-K-Kaname?" Ah! How convincing! The daydream had audio as well.
"Uh...Kaname?" It certainly was a persistant fantasy.
"Uh....Uh...." The "Uhs" did it. Her mind snapped into sharp focus. She pinched herself. She pinched him. Very hard.
"Ouw! Kaname!!! What are you doing?" The voice started out perturbed and became quickly confused. "How can you still be alive? The accident...."
It WAS Sousuke. Or she had gone WAY too far off the deep end. Had she been shot? Was she laying on an operating table under anesthesia? Was she dead...was this Heaven...OR...?
"S-S-Sousuke?" Her eyes were so wide now, and the rush of blood in her ears was so great, that she almost feared that her head would burst like a balloon. "How? The TDD-1? All lost...."
For long moments, both stood staring at one another, the surrounding world seemingly nonexistant. Neither could move. Neither knew what to say. The shock to their systems was overwhelming.
Kaname moved first. Old habits died hard. She moved quickly from disbelief...to joy...back to disbelief again...and skipped ahead a few notches to unbridled rage. She swung her purse, gun inside. Placement was perfect: the sturdy leather strap broke under the force of the blow against Sousuke's chin. Only his reflexes kept him from doing a series of cartwheels.
"SOUSUKE!!! WHERE...THE...HELL...HAVE...YOU...BEEN...?!!"
Sousuke's response was unplanned and inappropriate. If he had been tactically clever, he would have taken a step back. If he had been strategically wise, he would have taken the running start Kaname was uncharacteristically providing him. A normal individual might be filled with dread, pain, or anger.
Sousuke smiled.
"Kaname...it IS you...how?" He rubbed his tender chin. His gaze grew distant. "Kaname...that hurt...a lot..."
Those words. Kaname had heard something similar on many occasions. Suddenly, her anger was gone and her eyes filled with tears. Her lips quivered and her legs suddenly felt very weak.
"Sousuke...I'm sorry...but..." She couldn't find the right words to say. There was so much to ask, so much to tell, and she couldn't lasso a single word. Sousuke removed the need for speech from her for a short stretch of time, wrapping his arms around her and placing his face in her hair.
It was a unique moment for Sousuke. He felt close to tears. He hadn't even cried at the discovery of Kaname's so-called death. His voice caught in his throat repeatedly. He could only manage half formed "U...u...u...h...h..h..." Getting a grip on his emotions, he whispered "Kaname."
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Kaname had shock upon shock, but thought she was handling it well. First, it WAS Sousuke. Not a phantom. Not a ghost. Not some figment of her imagination.
Second, it was not exactly the same Sousuke. He was older, of course. But she could sense an almost palpable increase in maturity, as if the most recent emotional hardships had somehow overridden his ealier childhood traumas. He was calmer...still in control, but less noticeably so.
Third and furthermore, he had been very vulnerable for a moment. The tears had still been clinging to his eyes when she had finally brought herself to gaze up at his face. He had smiled soon after that, and the smile was open, almost carefree.
Part of her was intrigued, and anxious to explore the mysteries further. Part of her wanted to immediately start back up right where they had left off.
An equal if not larger part was stricken, almost painfully so. What things had happened in Sousuke's life to bring about such evolution? What events? What people? What women?! Was there still some special someone he was anxious to get back to?
Those latter questions almost seemed more imortant than the more obvious puzzle: why had he stayed away without even a single word. Why had she been told that the TDD-1 had been lost at sea, all hands aboard?
Sousuke had obviously been hit as hard by things as she had, and had his own questions too. He had asked her to hold her inquiries until they had both gathered their composure, and until they had a private and comfortable place to talk. It was a reasonable request, but Kaname had to fight the urge to either kiss him---or pummel him---until he gave in.
They had visited her work place together, Kaname's obvious condition drawing assorted gasps, concern, sympathy, and understanding. Her bosses were only too eager to offer her the rest of the day off with pay. She gladly accepted.
The fourth shock was minor in comparison. Minor, but extremely annoying and completely unwanted.
Her latest ex-boyfriend was certainly persistant. He was waiting down at the street, three hired street minstrels by his side. He had set up a small tent, and had a folding table filled with snacks and potables. The minstrels were nibbling on scones and quaffing carbonated fruit drinks. They couldn't have been out here for too long. Why hadn't they just waited a few moments longer?!
Kaname wished at least one of them had been dressed as a mime...she was looking for any excuse to justify extreme punishment. Her emotions had already been well into the red. This was NOT the time for such blatant foolishness!
She looked up at Sousuke's face. He was not wary or paranoid. He was curious and confident. His eyes moved rapidly, obviously taking full stock of the situation. He was content to simply observe.
The ex-boyfriend clapped his hands. The minstrels tossed aside their pastries and cups, and quickly grabbed their instruments, their period costumes flapping with every strong gust of wind. Lute, shawm, and doumbek in hand, they started up a sprightly 14th century troubador tune.
Standing and bowing towards Kaname, the ex-boyfriend began to sing, somewhat off key. The words were from "Foy portes," a work of Guillaume de Machant:
"I want to stay faithful
"Guarding your honor
"Seek peace, obey
"Fear, serve, and honor you
"Until death
"Peerless Lady....!"
Kaname began fuming. Had she been a cartoon character, steam would surely be pouring out of both ears. This! Now! With Sousuke here!
She looked back up into Sousuke's eyes. Part of her was worried that Sousuke would cause a scene, brandishing a weapon or sending the minstrels and patron airborne with a grenade. Part of her was expectant, WANTING Sousuke to exact painful vengeance on her behalf.
He correctly read all of her moods. He remained completely still and silent. His eyes squinted ever so slightly. He obvously tried to suppress a grin. He had the nerve to smile outright, when he saw her grimace and heard her start growling on HIS behalf.
The nerve of him!!!
Kaname was a quick thinker. It was one of the reasons she had proven so adept at her line of work. She hated to reward Sousuke for his inattentiveness to her needs, but she had bigger fish to fry now. She had ruled out violence. She had ruled out paying any obvous attention at all to the singing irritant. She quite deliberately reached into her purse slowly, pulled out her lipstick, and made slow and careful use of it. She took a moment to check herself in her small mirror. She took a few steps back and away from Sousuke.
Souske turned ever so slightly, moving one leg back a small bit, as if readying himself for some kind of impact. For a brief moment Kaname was infuriated, knowing that Sousuke somehow expected her next move. She quickly flip-flopped her mood, however. They truly WERE a good team, weren't they. Still.
Kaname took a few brisk steps forward, and launched herself into the air. She landed on Sousuke, arms around his neck. She kissed him with a fervor that surprised everyone present. One minstrel nearly bit the mouthpiece off of his shawm.
She had meant it as a statement, as a ploy. However, her emotions...and Sousuke's...would have nothing to do with that. The kiss deepened, and became fully mutual. Sousuke held her as if he never intended to let her go again, and she eagerly responded to that embrace. After some unknown period of time, both needed to come up for air.
Finished...for the moment...Kaname tossed her hair, setting it afloat on the stiff breeze. With a loud "Hmmppff!," she grabbed Sousuke's arm and started to drag him down the street towards her car.
Sousuke pulled himself from her grasp, surprising her, making her furrow her brow dangerously.
His face composed, and his gait smooth and leisurely, Sousuke walked up to the minstels and their temporary Lord. Uh oh! This was when the fur would start flying! Kaname licked her lips in anticipation. She started to smile when Sousuke reached into one of his larger pants pockets.
Without saying a word, Sousuke pulled out his billfold. He pulled out some coins and paper money, bowed, and offered it to each minstrel in turn. They eagerly accepted his tips, and bowed, flourishing their plumed hats. Sousuke started to hold some money out towards Kaname's ex-boyfriend, then stopped. He shook his head, wadded up the bills, and placed the money back in his pocket. He strolled slowly back to Kaname.
Arriving back at Kaname's side, Sousuke offered her his arm, which she gladly held onto. She felt as if she were walking on air. That had been SO perfect! She stopped. She looked up at him, her eyes large and vulnerable.
"Sousuke...."
"Yes, Kaname?"
"I...I've missed you SO much!" She grabbed ahold of him again, this time clinging to him as if he were the only safe haven in the middle of a roaring flood. She stayed that way a while, crying quietly, as he tenderly stroked her hair.
"No doubt" he eventually replied, smiling when he felt her pull away momentarily. His eyes were not filled with humor, though. "I missed you too Kaname." She burrowed her head back into his shoulder, intent to stand there forever.
*************************************************************
Sousuke sat comfortably, reclining on a couch of Scandanavian design, colorful throw pillows decorating either end. A small purring calico cat had claimed his lap, and he absentmindedly stroked its ears and back.
Waiting for Kaname's return with the drinks, he looked about her apartment, noting the neatly kept shelves, the well-placed prints, and the scattered avantgarde figurines, vases, and conversation pieces. Her selected furniture appeared well chosen for its looks and its potential for comfort. The room was well lit, with track lights highlighting the shelving and the area over the mantlepiece. Candles of various shapes and sizes---some lit, but most not---accented the appearence of the room.
The small creature in his lap stretched, closed its eyes, and gave a wide feline yawn, displaying a set of fiercesome looking small teeth. Sousuke smiled. He thought of Kaname. She could be soft and warm, even cuddly if the moment was right. In the past, she had even come close to purring at times, and certainly responded well to attention.
And she too continued to have her sharp and pointed side. It seems that some things had not changed.
Other things had, however. He had considered her attractive before. She was even moreso now. She had been athletic and confident in her walk before. She glided now...smoother, moving in very interesting ways. Her hair had been an attractive mane, a definite point of notice. It was a silky waterfall now, almost with a life of its own. Her figure had become accentuated in the areas within which he now appreciated accentuation.
Sousuke smiled, thinking of the lost opportunities of his past. Her beauty had captivated him unconsciously in the past, at least as much as he was capable of being captivated. It had been a subtle thrill and unease back then---more a source of discomfort and uncertainty than a hair trigger for hormones and teenage fantasies. It was just as well, he admitted. He had a job to do back then. Things had started to progress significantly in college...but the reported accident had effectively ended that.
He was free to indulge his senses now. He anticipated her walk back into the room.
*************************************************************
After taking a shower and changing into more casual---and intact---clothing, Kaname excused herself and went off to the kitchen area.
Moving purposefully and efficiently, Kaname put together a plate of Pocky and sweet chestnuts, next turning her attention to making the mixed drinks. She decided on lime chu-hai, and gathered up the shochu, lime juice, and soda water.
It seems she was a bit distracted. At one point, she realized she had emptied half of the soda water bottle, filling one glass well beyond the top, forming a small cascade and a puddle on the floor. Damn that Sousuke! She smiled and shook her head. Opening the cabinet, she took out a clean glass and started anew.
Kaname paused for the umpteenth time, attempting to regain her mental equilibrium. She could hardly believe the turn of events. Sousuke. Sousuke was here. Sousuke was here with her. Her thoughts began wandering again. She wondered how he had changed inside. The outward changes were easy to see. He was taller. Broader. He moved with greater ease, but with no less determination. His hair was well manicured, and his skin was pleasantly tanned.
She knew what she wanted most to find out...about him and about herself. Was there a place in her life for him? Was there a place in his life for her? What might their emotions choose for them? What might their current lives limit them to? Had they grown up apart...or had they grown apart?
Kaname would not find out the answers rearranging the snack plate for the tenth time, or wasting her bottle of soda water. She wouldn't solve any mysteries reminiscing about the past, and wouldn't do either one of them a favor by trying to force the future.
Nonetheless, this was not a time to be overly cautious. At the very least, she had the comfort of knowing that he was alive. Already, that knowledge had removed a tragic pall from her previous memories of him, allowing her to enjoy those images again.
Yes, the worst thing that could happen would be that she would wake up again tomorrow, realizing that Sousuke was still absent from her life. What harm could come from being assertive? She should make the most of this opportunity.
Kaname was in a generous mood. She allowed herself to hope. The uncertainty and anticipation were almost electric now. What if they COULD somehow spend significant time together again?
*************************************************************
Kaname and Sousuke spent pleasant moments reminiscing. They mentioned the pertinent things that had occured in their lives since they last saw one another. The time finally arrived, however, when they both could wait no longer. It was time for the mood to change. There were happenings that needed to be discussed.
"Sousuke?" Kaname's gaze was razor sharp, and her posture straight without being artificially rigid.
"Yes, Kaname?" Sousuke caught the change in her look, and nodded his head in acknowledgement.
"Sousuke...a messenger from Mithril brought me a communique from the high command soon after you left college for Iran. It said the TDD-1 had been lost at sea. It said that all hands had been aboard, and that no one had been rescued. They could not provide any further details. I was told that I was on my own. What HAPPENED?" She was grasping a small pillow in her hands, alternately queezing and twisting it.
"Kaname...I can only tell you what I know. I will then ask you my own questions. After that, we can surmise together. Is that acceptable?" He sat straighter up, and removed Iris from his lap, placing her gently upon the floor.
Kaname nodded her head, continuing her merciless assault on the pillow.
"To start off...nothing ever happened to the TDD-1 or any significant number of crewmen. As for my leaving college, I told you as much as I could before I left. I can tell you more now. Arbalest was needed. At least one enemy AS with lambda technology was noted in the vicinity of one of the nuclear facilities. Melissa's ARX-7 was in for repairs...Kurz' had been taken down for routine maintenance...and the forthcoming Arx-7s had not completed their validation phaze. All that meant that I specifically was needed."
Sousuke paused, momentarily haunted by painful memories. Kaname noticed, and her look grew sympathetic, concerned.
"The briefing had gone off without a hitch. I had then spent a pleasant evening with Kurz and Melissa. When I headed back to my cabin intent on getting a good night's sleep, I found Tessa waiting at my door. She carried an envelope marked "Urgent." There were tears on her face."
Kaname flinched at the mention of Tessa's name. Her look grew sour, when she thought of Tessa and "Urgent" envelopes together.
"Tessa" she hissed.
"Yes, Kaname." Sousuke shook his head sadly, his mind awash with potential conspiracies. "She had told me that she had terrible news. She said she was so very sorry. When I read the message, it felt as if my world had collapsed. There would be no reason for me to return to Japan. Stricken as I was, I didn't know if I would EVER want to return again...."
"Sousuke?" Kaname too had her suspicions.
"Uh..." Despite the severity of the conversation, Kaname found a reason to smile, if only briefly. 'Uh.' How many times had she heard that utterance?!
Sousuke caught her reaction...looked confused for a moment...and then looked sheepish. "Uh" he said purposely. "You had been in an automobile accident, colliding with a fully laden fuel truck at a petrol station. Or so it was written." He lifted an eyebrow, and Kaname knew what he was asking.
"I WAS in an accident near that gas station, Sousuke. But as you can see, I survived."
"Thank you, Kaname. I was not certain. About the accident, I mean." He paused to finish off his most recent drink.
"The collision was supposed to have resulted in a tremendous fireball. Many people were supposed to have died. The next day I was shown a newspaper obituary page with your name and picture. Many other names and histories were nearby, all relating to the casulties of the same tragedy. I was in disbelief, until I read the front page. The accident was reported, and a rather detailed description was given...including your name...and your model of automobile."
Kaname had begun to look angry. Not only had someone done this to her...someone had done this to Sousuke! And, it was most likely perpetrated by the very people he served so well...for whom he repeatedly put his life on the line!
"Did you ask about a funeral?" It was the next logical question.
"Yes." Sousuke's eyes looked empty, cold. Kaname had seen that look often enough in the early days. "But my request to attend was denied. The ceremonies were supposedly on the same day as the mission. I..."
Sousuke hung his head. "I had approached Lt. Cmdr. Kalinin. He spoke on my behalf with Lt. Concepcion and others. The professional opinion was that a delay in the mission might be risky, but would not necessarily lead to failure or greater losses. They were in favor of flying me to Tokyo in one of the new F-35 VTOL aircraft---letting me say my words---and returning me immediately thereafter." It was Sousuke's turn to clench a pillow.
"My request was denied by Cmdr. Mardukas, and his order was supported by Tessa. They said that fresh weather reports had come in by satellite. If anything, the mission needed to be pushed to an earlier start time. It was. I can't remember too much of what happened during that mission. I have little recollection of what I did for months after that."
"I can understand that feeling. I went through something very similar, myself." Kaname shivered, remembering her initial days after Sousuke's supposed demise.
"Kaname...you said you really were in an accident? Were you badly hurt? What happened?"
"I was near the gas station at the time of the explosion. A car crossed through a red light at the intersection, and I swerved to avoid it, colliding with a parked flatbed truck carrying fresh produce. It was not a jarring impact, and I was only bruised slightly on my chest. I was in more danger from the fireball, which stopped just short of the street. I felt the heat, and thought my time might have come."
"Do you have any idea why your name would have been associated with that accident by Mithril?" Kaname could sense the unspoken accusation in Sousuke's voice. She knew he was struggling with the idea of possible betrayal and chicanery.
"Yes, I suppose I supplied someone with an ideal opportunity. Even though I had been told that Mithril would no longer be looking out for my well being, I still knew some of the drop points and a few pertinent phone numbers." Kaname paused to take a sip of her drink.
"When I was apologizing to the truck driver, he was very understanding. His co-worker in the passenger seat had seen the whole thing unfold. He said that the other car had continued to accelerate...drove into the gas station...and appeared to head straight for the tanker truck."
"You suspected terrorism?" Sousuke approved of Kaname's thought process.
"Well, Sousuke...being around you certainly rubbed off on me!" Kaname smiled fondly. Sousuke smiled in return.
Kaname continued. "I couldn't be certain. I didn't see how it could hurt if I passed along my concerns. The operatives thanked me, but told me to avoid any contact in the future." Kaname was silent a few moments, dealing with her own thoughts about betrayal, and being cut loose without warning, with no opportunity to make other arrangements if she so chose.
"In the true newspaper article, I read that the driver had left a suicide note. If I hadn't contacted Mithril...." Kaname's tone made it seem as if she were blaming herself for the lies subsequently told to Sousuke. She hung her head.
"Kaname...." Sousuke shook his head and patted the spot on the sofa next to him. "Don't ever think about blaming yourself!" He paused until she got up, walked over, and sat next to him. Kaname leaned up against him with a long deep sigh.
"Look at me, Kaname." His voice was very strict then. He was in command at that moment. When he was certain he had her full attention, his face softened, and he placed his arm around her. "You didn't cause any of it. You simply supplied a convenient coating of truth to a horrible lie. If you hadn't...they would have found something else, and would not have stopped until they made that convincing as well. Perhaps if I had been more suspicious...if I had made covert inquiries...."
Kaname leaned down and bit Sousuke's arm.
"Ouw! Kaname!"
"Look at me, Sousuke!" It was Kaname's turn to take the rein. "You had word from people you trusted. They showed you something any normal person would believe. Someone obviously wanted you away from me. Perhaps they were jealous. Maybe they thought you were being wasted guarding someone who hadn't provided the organization with a single shred of useful knowledge. We can only guess. But if they were so bold to go as far as they did...."
"Yes. You are correct. They would have found some way to meet their goals." His eyes went very wide, briefly. His mouth went razor thin, then relaxed. His tension ebbed visibly.
"Sousuke...what's wrong?"
"I had a very frightening thought...but, one which likely would never have occured. The possibility had struck me that if someone had been desperate enough...and despicable enough...they would not have had to lie. Or, they could have built a more convincing front. Your whereabouts--- and importance---could have been leaked to evil men. A sniper could have been hired anonymously. Any number of possibilities come to mind."
Kaname did NOT want to follow that line of thought. Instead, she thought that it was an appropriate time to raise the stakes. She knew what the questions might do to Sousuke...but he would get there on his own, and she wanted to hear his thoughts. She also wanted to be by his side to offer comfort.
"Sousuke, we were both fooled. And, I suppose neither of us were truly at fault. We know what was said. We can guess why it was done. We...."
Sousuke cut her off, abruptly. "Who." His eyes looked very sad at first, flashing with anger soon thereafter.
Kaname nodded. She stroked Sousuke's arm tenderly, and was rewarded, seeing the anger in his face turn first into surprise, and then gradually into longing. He kissed her tenderly on the forehead before he attempted to speak once more.
"I think we can both come up with one name. Though I almost feel a traitor saying anything without proof, it is certainly a soldier's job to consider all possibilities."
"Tessa."
"Yes. She had her own personal reasons, but I doubt that would have been enough. With her contacts, and her meticulous approach to things, I find it hard to belive that she would have been completely fooled by anyone else. Whether or not she was in favor of the plan, I suspect she was involved at some level." The thought struck Sousuke deeply. He had thought Tessa to be a friend. Would a friend take part in such a ruse, even if under strong and severe pressure?
What kind of commanding officer could behave in such a fashion? This hit Sousuke on a professional level as well.
"Mardukas?"
Sousuke thought a moment. "It's possible. He did not like my attraction to you. He thought my training and talents were wasted in Tokyo. But, even though I never came to like the man, I respected him as an honorable soldier. I cannot see him doing something like this at his own behest...but I cannot say for certain whether or not he would follow along if ordered by his superiors."
"Kalinin?"
"No!" Sousuke's response was quick, instinctual. "At least, I strongly doubt he would take part in such a charade. First, he is an honorable man. Second, he supported my decision to remain by your side, even though he felt I might better serve elsewhere. And, he seemed honestly saddened at the news of your demise, and made efforts to gain permission for me to attend your funeral."
"Not Kurz or Melissa."
"No." There was no doubt whatsoever in Sousuke's mind.
"Someone in the High Command?"
Sousuke nodded his head. "It is certainly possible. They tend to view soldiers as commodities, regardless of how philanthropic their overall view of the organization's purpose may be. And, there is certainly no guarantee that some of them may not be ruthless driven men. There had been traitors at Headquarters in the past, as Gauron's takeover attempt once plainly demonstrated. If there could be traitors, there could certainly be lesser evils."
Kaname squeezed Sousuke's hand, then brushed her fingers across his cheek. "Sousuke...what are you going to do? Are you going to pursue this...or keep things to yourself?"
Sousuke understood the given question. He also correctly read Kaname's underlying query. "I'm not certain, Kaname. There is certainly a danger in exposing the misbehavior of superiors or people with power. But this is more than a matter of honor. More than a matter of right versus wrong. I have to determine who might be currently at risk, and what actions might be taken against them. Against us."
"Sousuke...." Kaname stopped, not certain how to best ask her question.
"Might I consider leaving Mithril?" Sousuke paused for effect, meeting Kaname's eyes. "And, might I consider what my decisions might mean for the two of us, and what future relationship we might have together?"
"Yes." Kaname blushed, lowering her head. When she raised her head back up again, her look was eager and intense.
"The first is a very difficult question Kaname, no matter what some individuals in Mithril may have done to us. I do not want to live for revenge ever again. And I do not want my anger to dominate my actions. We should both realize that Mithril continues to perform a tremendous service from a global perspective, improving the lives of countless people. And, we should not judge the whole cart of apples to be rotten, just because we happened upon a bad sample."
Kaname nodded her head. "But we are within our rights to check each apple more carefully, aren't we?"
"Yes. My thoughts exactly, Kaname. There are things I need to find out before I make any decision in that regard. I trust Kurz and Melissa implicitly, and they need to know---at the very least---that you are still alive. I also trust Cmdr. Horowitz, the commander of the TDD-3, and Lt. Cmdr. Ben-Elieden, the commander of the SRT. I do not wish to embroil them in controversy, but I trust their judgement. And, I feel I must inform them of my actions, if I decide to procede with anything potentially disruptive."
Despite many of the changes that maturity had wrought, Sousuke still suffered from occasional slips of the tongue. "And, I can ask for Capt. Concepcion's assistance. I believe she would be discrete. We had grown somewhat closer, for a while." He realized his mistake when he saw Kaname's questioning scowl. He moved quickly onward.
"Kaname, I believe you also wanted to know what we might be able to hope for from each other?"
Kaname's look softened, and her heart was in her eyes. "Yes, Sousuke. I would very mich like to know that." She halted, momentarily. Squaring her shoulders, she continued. "Is there...someone...Sousuke? There isn't for me...."
Sousuke shook his head. "Like you, Kaname, I looked for companionship from time to time, but never seemed able to find someone sufficient. Not one of them was you." Sousuke felt warm inside when he saw Kaname's reaction to that statement.
"Does that mean....?" Kaname held her breath, a tidal wave of emotions sweeping across her thoughts.
"Yes, Kaname. I would like to spend time with you again. I would like to see where things might lead."
"Me too, Sousuke...me too!!!" For the first time in a long while, Kaname felt truly happy.
They spoke at length, on various topics, until Kaname's every other sentence appeared to be punctuated with a yawn.
"You look exhausted, Kaname. Perhaps it is time for you to get some sleep. I should be on my way, before hotel desks begin closing."
"SOUSUKE!!!" That voice certainly brought back memories for the two of them. "Do NOT be such a moron, Sousuke. You will be staying here, of course. There is plenty of room."
Her eyes took on a curious glow, one Sousuke was not certain he had seen before. "You could probably use a shower, Sousuke. While you are doing that, I will get things ready for you."
*************************************************************
While Sousuke was in the shower, Kaname went about preparing things for Sousuke. She hummed happily to herself, stopping only to smile, or to consider if she were doing the right thing. No. There was no doubt. There was something she had long regretted.
Sousuke himself had drilled her repeatedly about the importance of timing in the offensive part of battle.
*************************************************************
The warm shower was certainly welcome. Sousuke felt a need to wash away the grime and filth of the day. Symbolically, he felt determined to wipe away the residua of past events that covered his soul like a clinging layer of dust.
His body felt fresh. His mind and spirit too. He still could not believe his good fortune, finding Kaname alive. Finding her unattached and still interested!!!
Finished dressing, he stepped out of the bathroom, intending to pass through Kaname's bedroom on his way to the living room area. No doubt the couch had been prepared with comfortable pillows and blankets.
He would not make it to the living room that evening.
The first thing he noticed was that the bed cover had been turned down, with fluffed pillows exposed on both sides. At the sudden dimming of the lights, he turned his head towards the doorway.
Kaname stood there, holding a generously filled wine glass in each hand. She was wearing lacey lingerie that left little to the imagination...and made her look better than any woman had a right to.
Ah! It seems that he had taught Kaname how to fish only too well. Sousuke knew he was well and firmly hooked when Kaname spoke.
"Sousuke...do you still carry those latex emergency canteens in your weapons kit?"
*************************************************************
END
There was a crystal decanter, filled with long stem roses. A dozen heart shaped balloons. A large stuffed bear holding a gold foil box of expensive Belgian chocolates. A pair of tickets to the most talked about new play.
There was a tangible scent of anger in the air. She was angry at HIM--lipstick stains on his collar and a lame ass excuse that challenged her intelligence. She was angry at HERSELF--this wasn't the first evidence she had of his wandering affections.
It only took a few steps to reach the telephone. A call to maintenance was in order: "Hello, this is Miss Kaname Chidori. There was a lot of junk left on my desk. Could you please send someone up with a trash bin and have the items removed. Thank you."
*************************************************************
It had been a satisfying assignment. The island setting had been relaxing. The simple food had done his system good. It was nice to get some fishing in again.
He had spent the last month acting as an instructor. The new Halberd AS, the HBD-5, was a fine machine. The lambda driver interface was still tricky, but the new power plant was phenomenal, and the standard weapons package was cutting edge. Many of his proteges had proven eager, even though they were not all natural talents. They had come along very well before the end of the sessions. The most talented trio was a handful, however. A hot headed young woman. A young man who took nothing seriously. And a quiet detached youth with the gift.
He shook his head thinking about the trouble makers. He hoped his assessment would prove correct: they should end up as the hot new Mithril squad some day down the road. He smiled tightly, realizing that not too many years ago he had been part of just such an ungainly crew. It would be good to get back to the TDD-3--he missed Kurz and Melissa.
An orderly drove up swiftly in a militarized electric golf cart. "A message for you, Lt. Sagara!"
Sousuke thanked the young man, and sent him on his way. Was this a new assignment?
He opened the envelope and looked at the memo. Osaka. Japan. He hadn't been to the land of his birth for four years...ever since the occurence.
*************************************************************
Kaname was miffed at herself. She hadn't had the courage to tell Kyouko the truth. She had claimed to be fabulously happy, with a wonderful boyfriend. She truthfully told her old friend that she missed Tokyo, but somehow felt safer in Osaka. Not that deranged killers and secret organizations couldn't trace her there too...but it had been a fresh start after her graduation. And it placed her a good distance from the site of painful memories as well. It had been hard finishing college alone.
She was ecstatic to hear that Kyouko was engaged, but at the same time felt a deep sadness welling up within herself. She had gone from boyfriend to boyfriend, trying to fill the emptiness she felt inside. Was she such a poor judge of character, or was she simply tilting at windmills? She sighed. She did not want to think that name at the moment.
The apartment was too quiet. She turned the stereo on, and flippedf through the channels. No, she was not in the mood for classical. Or electronic, techno, or alternative. The last channel she tried was coming out of a news break, mentioning something about a kidnapping down town. The first song after the break was by Enya. She quickly ran back to the stereo and shut it off.
Kaname did NOT want to think about anything celtic...but it was too late. Her thoughts naturally led her to the words Tuatha De Danaan. And that, of course, brought back the painful memory of the final communique she had recieved from Mithril before that organization apparently disappeared from her life.
The TDD-1 had been lost at sea, fully crewed. With all SRT members on board. All.
*************************************************************
After he had finished packing his clothing bag and his weapons kit, Sousuke went down his mental checklist, cleaning up all of his loose ends. As his final act prior to shutting off the light and heading out the door of his quarters, he checked the messages on his answering machine.
There was one message from Capt. Concepcion. It seemed she would not give up trying to sink her hooks into him again. There was yet another invitation to a two-person party from a shapely young visiting dignitary's daughter who wanted to celebrate her recent recruitment to Mithril...and her successful salpingectomies. And there was a message from Kurz, asking him to bring his diary when he returned to the TDD-3.
Sousuke sighed. He still didn't understand women, but he had started to notice them more and more. Nonetheless, he was not profligate. Flings and one night stands did not appeal to his innermost needs, and he did not have any current desire for a long term relationship. He knew the reason why.
His assignment in Tokyo had ended abruptly. There had been no further reason for him to stay. He still remembered the shock he felt when Captain Testarossa delivered the report to him, tears in her eyes.
Kaname had been in an automobile accident. By report, her car had been struck by a fuel truck, and the resulting blaze had consumed her and the patrons of a small gasoline station. Sousuke could still taste the bilious taste in his mouth that he had when he was informed that his newest mission would keep him from attending her funeral. The safehouse near his and Kaname's college had been cleaned out by a sweeper team, and his belongings had been packaged and brought to him at sea. He still could not bring himself to open many of the boxes.
Tessa had campaigned long and hard for a more intimate relationship after his automatic reassignment, but her timing had proven impractical and unwise. He had not been ready. It would not be proper. Eventually, he had requested and received permission to transfer to the newest of the Tuatha De Danaan class submersibles.
He wondered if he would ever be ready for anyone.
*************************************************************
Kaname finished off the bottle of champagne. She had been sarcastically toasting her one week anniversary of being a totally free woman. She placed the empty bottle on the table and gave it a spin, her thoughts slowing gradually as the rotation came to a halt.
She had just recieved an unexpected promotion, and should be elated. It was a clear indication that her talents were recognized, and it brought a fair increase in salary. Her division was doing very well, and sales had not been this brisk in over a decade. She was pleased with the turn of events, but her thoughts kept going back to her lack of success in relationships.
Who would have thought that Sousuke would have come to mean that much to her?
A small deformed calico cat limped up to her, looking for affection. Kaname smiled. She had rescued the poor thing from an animal shelter she had walked by. It had looked so lonely, so forlorn, pressed up against the window. She had brought it home, and initially named it Tessa, but later gave the spunky creature a reprieve, renaming her Iris after she had knocked over a vase of flowers.
Kaname walked into the kitchen, and rummaged about the cabinets, looking for a tin of cat food. All out! It was time for a trip to the grocery store, even though she was hardly in the mood. But, the fresh air might do her good. She grabbed her coat and her purse and headed out the door. The weight of her purse was comforting, but also saddened her. She opened the purse and checked the Glock 27 Sousuke had given her. The clip was full.
For a brief while, Kaname was surrounded by dancing memories, some causing her to smile, others causing her eyes to tear. At one moment, she thought about removing a gift-wrapped grenade from the closet. It had been one of the last gifts that Sousuke had given her. Somehow, it meant more to her than the pearls, and gold, and carved jade that subsequent men had showered upon her. She almost dropped the grenade into her coat pocket, thinking that Sousuke would approve.
Iris' mewing broke the spell. She headed out of the door and down the hallway of her apartment building.
*************************************************************
The kidnap victim in Osaka had been a well-known scientist and expert in new fusion reactor theory. Sousuke's superiors realized the adverse effect such knowledge could have if it fell into the wrong hands. And they wagered that a rescue by Mithril might gain that organization a new member.
Kurz and Melissa had argued vehemently that a couple of ECS shrouded Arm Slaves might prove invaluable as a contingency plan. Their request was not without merit, but Cmdr. Horowitz correctly noted that time was of the essence.
The two stalwarts talked to Sousuke via radio, wishing him godspeed and a safe return. Melissa asked him to bring back a couple of cases of beer from a number of select microbreweries. Kurz asked him to bring back a redhead.
Driving with his small team of specialists in a nondescript but electronically stuffed Mithril van, Sousuke caught his breath as they drove by a grocery store. He hadn't gotten a good view of the woman placing grocery bags in her car, but the glimpse he did get reminded him of Kaname. He shook his head violently, drawing curious stares from his companions. This was not the time for daydreaming.
*************************************************************
A chill breeze blew up Kaname's skirt, causing her to shiver momentarily. For some reason, she had a passing flash of deja vu, thinking of Sousuke. The face in the side window of a passing van had drawn her attention at the very same moment, and she almost imagined seeing a scar similar to the late Mithril sergeant's.
She had to snap out of this funk. The windows on the van had been dirty, and no doubt the marking had been outside the van, not on the blurry face she had seen.
*************************************************************
The rescue operation had gone off very well, after a sufficient period of surveillance, planning, and preparations. The kidnappers---a bunch of freelance mercenaries hired by a ruthless industrialist---had proven worthy opponents, but there had been no fatalities on Mithril's side. None of the kidnappers would be offering their services again, unless the military leaders in Hell were currently hiring.
Sousuke had received a few painful bruises from one furious scuffle with a large attacker, but he had once again shown an opponent the value of a boot knife. He was better off than some of his companions. A pair of Mithril sergeants sported bloody bandages on their head, torso, and limbs, but fortunately neither were in critical condition.
The scientist, physically unharmed, was frantic and near hysterical. He was given a sedative and escorted to an escorted Mithril limosine. Sousuke lost interest in him the moment the car door closed and the stretch limo drove off. His mission was complete. That was all he needed to know.
Saying his farewell to the other rescue squad members, Sousuke walked nonchalantly down to the street, waiting to hail a taxi. There was plenty of time before he needed to meet the Mithril helicopter, and he had some errands to run. He doubted he could find a redhead on short notice, but might have some luck in fulfilling Melissa's request.
*************************************************************
Kaname prized dilligence and perserverence in her co-workers and her underlings. She valued common sense and and good old fashioned judgement. When something was possible, or of likely success, she liked to see someone go after it with gusto. When something was unreachable, or not worth the cost and effort, she liked to see someone rein themself in and face the facts.
Her fellow employees, for the most part, exhibited many of those characteristics. Her most recent ex-boyfriend, however, did not. He had walked into her office unannounced, his arms filled with loose cut blossoms, a self-assured smile on his face. He had come to beg for her forgiveness and her return.
The nerve of him showing his face here! For the first time in a while, Kaname's hand curled, and she wished she had a halisen. She settled for picking up the receiver on her telephone, and placing her anger into her finger tip, as she mercilessly punched in the number for security. There had been few moments in the past few years as satisfying as those she subsequently spent watching two armed guards dragging the unwanted interloper away.
Kaname glanced up at the clock. It was time for her lunch break. Her mood was shot after the recent event, and she needed to find some way to calm herself down and regain an even keel. She snapped her fingers. That would do! She would treat herself to a leisurely lunch and latte at one of the downtown streetside cafes.
Letting her secretary know where she'd be, Kaname gathered up what she needed and headed on her way.
*************************************************************
Sousuke was in a relatively good mood. He had spent some pleasant time in a small but well-stocked book store, emerging with the newest Patrick O'Brian fiction and a historical text on the land war in China. The heavy shopping bag at his side indicated that his quest at a small number of liquor stores had been successful as well. Melissa would be happy. Kurz would have to be content with the fact that one brand of beer sported a buxom redhead on its label.
Checking his watch, he noted that he still had a fair amount of time before scheduled departure. Rumbling in his stomach led him to accost a passerby and inquire into the nearest group of food establishments. His appetite was hearty today, and he could think of no reason he shouldn't indulge himself while he was still shoreside.
Walking along the sidewalk, close to the currently quiet street, he tried to pick out faint aromas of food in the air. He luxuriated in the feeling of a calm and soothing breeze on his face. Most of his tension from earlier in the day was gone. He had grown more self-aware in the last few years, and realized that he needed opportunities to unwind from time to time.
Today was one of the days he could think back to the past and enjoy the special memories, rather than one of the more common days where any memories of Tokyo left him feeling sadly nostalgic. He thought of Kaname, and wished she could be walking with him now, hand in his hand.
His reverie was interupted by high revving engine noises, and the buzz of rapidly approaching automobiles. A swerving group of brightly colored subcompact cars, modified as street racers, flashed noisily by like a swarm of insanely painted metal bees, some passing extremely close to the place where he walked.
For a brief moment, Sousuke wished he was wrapped in the firm embrace of an HBD-5, weapons fully armed, with permission to proceed with maximum prejudice.
Not too much later, he heard another grouped sound of engine noises, this time materializing as a group of street bikes, again stretching the limits of the manufacturers' color palette. The riders lacked helmets, and their hair was tall and sculptured, or bizarrely dyed. They carried guns.
Walking more briskly, he could now see a series of streetside tables and booths up ahead, as well as a number of likely restaurants. The cars from before were parked haphazardly in the street and on the sidewalk. The motorcycles headed for the same area. Gunshots rang out.
Sousuke paused a moment. This was none of his concern. He did not wish to see innocent people injured, but he could not afford to become embroiled in a gang battle. He had his share of such encounters in the past, but that was when he had been protecting Kaname, Tessa, and others.
Instincts overcame logic and duty. He started to run towards the site of the ongoing conflict.
*************************************************************
The seafood chowder had been excellent...perhaps the finest food she had eaten in months. Wiping the inside of the bowl clean with the remnants of a flaky fresh baked bagette, Kaname seriously considered ordering another bowl. Looking at her watch, she sighed. Not too much time remained before she would have to head back. She would have to content herself with her remaining spiced latte.
Politely, she asked a young couple at an adjacent table if they would like to read the periodical she had purchased and finished reading during lunch. The young woman she spoke to graciously accepted the offer. Kaname and the two strangers were all on their feet soon thereafter, a raucous noise filling the air.
Close to a dozen small sports cars roared into view. With a loud squeal of rubber, the cars pulled hard slides, some ending up on the sidewalk, knocking over a few unoccupied tables, umbrellas and all. Some cars slowed more sedately, but drove their way purposely between seated groups of cafe goers.
The drivers and their passengers sauntered out of their vehicles, walking with a pronounced swagger, whistling and calling out to random patrons. They laughed loudly, brandished pistols and submachine guns, and made it a point to announce their presence with wildly staged flamboyance.
The crown princes of the city underground had arrived. The common folk should be made aware, put in their place, and taught to offer proper respect.
Seeing a mall group of miscreants look in her direction, wave, and put large grins on their faces, Kaname subtly reached her hand inside of her purse. She wished she HAD brought that grenade along. She hoped someone inside one of the restaurants or nearby shops had their wits about them, and would call the police.
When the leather clad and denim covered young men were but a few strides away from Kaname's table, a loud rumbling filled the air, making the approaching gang members quickly change their priorities. Guns in hand, they ran to find concealment amongst the sea of patrons, behind their rides, and in shop doorways. Their colorful get-ups and wild hairstyles made it difficult to entirely blend in.
Kaname knocked over her heavy metal lacework table and crouched vigilantly behind it when she heard gunshots ring out. She yelled to nearby cafe patrons to hit the ground or find suitable cover. Her cursing started when nearby bullets kicked up a small cloud of concrete particles.
She heard some children crying nearby. Their mother had been hit in the leg, and they were in the middle of a crossfire. Souske had taught Kaname well. It was time to act. It was time to be efficient and successful. Glock in hand, she started firing at visible gang members responsible for the deadly rain of lead. After hitting members of both rival factions, she ran low to the ground, intending to drag the children into better cover.
*************************************************************
"Damn!!!" was the only word that Sousuke said aloud, pausing behind a decorative iron alley gate to survey the rapidly worsening situation. This was a terrible mess. Targets mixed with innocents, a growing number of whom were taking collateral damage. There were elderly patrons prsent. And children. No law enforcement officers were anywhere to be seen.
Rapidly, he once again took stock of his available weapons. Scanning the surroundings, a golden opportunity prompted him to automatic action. A large cluster of gang members had taken cover behind their cars. Another nearby group of rival combatants was closing in on them, crouching low behind available cover. Two well-placed fragmentation grenades did not descrimate amongst the two groups of adversaries: members of both gangs were blown skyward, thrown fiercely against cars, or torn assunder. The punctured fuel tank of one vehicle caught fire and exploded, adding to the cacophony.
Sousuke searched for a closer point of concealment--finding one, he ran swiftly, sliding quickly on his pants legs at the end of his sprint. Pistol in hand, he rapidly took down any obvious gang member that provided him with a clear and certain shot. His immediate area cleared, he was about to move further along until he saw one gaudily dressed villain drag an elderly woman along, using her as a human shield, backing his way into a nearby laundromat.
Sousuke hesitated a moment, but the delay did not prove costly. He would not run into the shop, unaware of how man hostiles might be inside, and not wanting to paint himself into a corner. Nonetheless, he felt compelled to aid the captive woman.
Making certain that he was not in the center of an expanding area of gunfire, he hefted a wrought iron stool and tossed it through a large glass window front. Leaning inside the window shortly after the stool had made its grand entrance, he caught the sluggish captor offguard, and took him down with a shot to the head. No other potential hostiles were present. The woman appeared to be in shock, but he could spare her no more attention.
Now crouching behind a table, Sousuke looked for the nearest concentration of combatants. The number was thinning rapidly, as those gang members who had had their fill were running to their cars and bikes, attempting to make a getaway.
*************************************************************
With the children safely situated in a small grove of planted trees, Kaname had returned to drag their mother to safetly. Remembering Sousuke's lessons on field dressings, she used various clothing items to effect whatever effective hemostasis she could.
She considered staying concealed herself, but worried that her brightly colored outfit might draw someone's attention to her place of hiding. She didn't want to subject the children to any risk higher than necessary. Telling the woman to hold on, Kaname ran to the nearest safe place she could identify, a series of adjacent phone booths.
Hopefully, she was hidden from view. However, she felt uneasy, as her view was blocked as well. She flinched, hearing successive explosions. Grenades! Her thoughts immediately returned to Sousuke for a moment. How she wished he was here!!!
Gunshots grew louder and more frequent. Someone was using a shotgun. A submachine gun was rattling away. Pistol fire complimented the symphony of death. Peering around the corner of one of the booths, Kaname initially saw a diminishing group of still hale combatants gradually making their way in her direction. Not wanting to draw undue attention to herself, she held her pistol in two hands snuggly against her chest, refraining from firing.
If they got too much closer, she would concentrate fire on whichever gang presented the greatest potential danger to herself and the concealed children. By her estimate, she still had a fair number of shots remaining.
A number of gang members from both sides had started to run off, apparently determined to live and fight another day. Kaname wiped her brow. She tried to catch her breath, fervently praying that things would soon be over.
What a story to tell in the office.
*************************************************************
Sousuke was still alert, but his priorities were in transition. For the most part, the threat appeared to be dissipating, as gang members shuffled off this mortal coil, mounted and rode, or ran off afoot. He situated his weapons out of sight, so he would not appear an obvious opponent or one of the offenders. He would not allow himself to lose focus...but it was time to think about assisting the wounded, and about making a smooth anonymous exit.
He offerered comfort, directed triage amongst the nonprofessionals, and applied impromptu dressings where appropriate. His obvious skill, and cool head under pressure, won him the respect and obedience of the wounded and unscathed alike. When the ambulances started arriving in number, Sousuke checked his watch and decided it was time to head towards the meeting point. He needed to flag down an available cab, if the area hadn't been cordoned off from general traffic. If necessary, he would use his cell phone to call for a ride or check the feasibility of a delayed take-off or later pick-up.
Striding quickly through the tables---noting the human carnage, automobile remnants, and overturned tables and stalls---Sousuke began to take less and less notice now of the huddled, crying, and writhing victims. He barely caught sight of a nicely dressed young woman bending over to comfort a pair of young children, a bloodied woman at their feet. Something tugged frantically at his memory, screaming out for his attention, but he was in too much of a hurry to give it much notice.
*************************************************************
There was blood on her skirt and blouse, and a couple of fresh tears in her stockings. Her nice dress shoes were scuffed, and the hinge on her purse was dislocated. Kaname was not concerned about any of that. The blood was not her own, and material things could be replaced.
The crying, moaning, and gasping breaths of the injured drew her attention, and she offered whatever succor she could. She had applied pressure to the young mother's wounds until an ambulance attendant took over. A shadow caught her eye, and she got a glimpse of a torso and legs dressed in pressed black slacks and a European shirt, somewhat reminiscent of some things that Sousuke had taken to wearing at the university. She almost lifted her head angrily to call the passerby to task...there were people who needed helping here! She stayed focused, however, and the faceless man quickly exited her thoughts.
She moved progressively onward, helping an overwrought teenage couple, a limping waiter, and a near comatose businessman. If she was not able to return to work on time, she had a good excuse. The status of her clothing and the look on her face ought to prove witness enough to any doubting company official.
Kaname was feeling a little lightheaded, herself. Part of it was the incessant rush of adrenaline, the rapidly changing levels or serotinin. Part of it was the onrushing waves of nostalgia. She had been through events like this before with Sousuke. She even caught herself looking for him, to pass along a good scolding...this HAD to be his fault somehow. Sadly, she tried to curb her reflexive responses.
When it looked like things were finally under control, she found a frightened restaurant owner and paid her bill. This was no time to take advantage of the situation. Saying her thanks, and receiving gratitude in return, she headed off towards her office building.
*************************************************************
The helicopter would leave without him. It would not prove a problem, as another team was arriving to research a permanent safehouse in Osaka, in case the scientist in question insisted that he would remain at his current place of employment. He could leave on their flight out.
Sousuke was intent on finding a a gun shop, to replentish his diminished ammunition stock. After that, he would find a nice hotel with a good restaurant and room service. He would shower, change clothes, and take the opportunity to start on his new books.
His books! And Melissa's beer! He had stashed them in a thick area of bushes prior to joining the fray. Damn. He would need to retrace his steps and retrieve those items. Grumbling, he headed back.
Of all the luck.
His mood lifted slightly with each step. He was uninjured. He had assisted the wounded. He had helped avert a much larger catastrophe. And he would delay Armageddon, if he could successfully rescue Melissa's precious elixirs. His mind ran onward without him, reminiscing about the firefight's similarity to past adventures with Kaname.
Falling deeper and deeper into thought, he almost knocked over a young woman. Snapping out of his near trance, he lifted his head to apologize. No words would come out. He had no voluntary movement of his limbs. A small corner of his mind wondered if he had been hit by a dart filled with curare or cone shell venom.
*************************************************************
She had been lost in thought, slave to an impromptu urge to tally the remaining tasks awaiting her back at her place of work. Not paying strict attention to the real time scene around her, Kaname felt a strong jarring impact in her left side and shoulder. She had to scramble momentarily to maintain her balance. And her temper.
"Hey! Watch where...." her words tailed off quickly and quietly. Had she hit herself harder than she thought she had? Had she bumped her head? Was this all an elaborate daydream? She could swear she saw Sousuke standing in front of her.
"K-K-Kaname?" Ah! How convincing! The daydream had audio as well.
"Uh...Kaname?" It certainly was a persistant fantasy.
"Uh....Uh...." The "Uhs" did it. Her mind snapped into sharp focus. She pinched herself. She pinched him. Very hard.
"Ouw! Kaname!!! What are you doing?" The voice started out perturbed and became quickly confused. "How can you still be alive? The accident...."
It WAS Sousuke. Or she had gone WAY too far off the deep end. Had she been shot? Was she laying on an operating table under anesthesia? Was she dead...was this Heaven...OR...?
"S-S-Sousuke?" Her eyes were so wide now, and the rush of blood in her ears was so great, that she almost feared that her head would burst like a balloon. "How? The TDD-1? All lost...."
For long moments, both stood staring at one another, the surrounding world seemingly nonexistant. Neither could move. Neither knew what to say. The shock to their systems was overwhelming.
Kaname moved first. Old habits died hard. She moved quickly from disbelief...to joy...back to disbelief again...and skipped ahead a few notches to unbridled rage. She swung her purse, gun inside. Placement was perfect: the sturdy leather strap broke under the force of the blow against Sousuke's chin. Only his reflexes kept him from doing a series of cartwheels.
"SOUSUKE!!! WHERE...THE...HELL...HAVE...YOU...BEEN...?!!"
Sousuke's response was unplanned and inappropriate. If he had been tactically clever, he would have taken a step back. If he had been strategically wise, he would have taken the running start Kaname was uncharacteristically providing him. A normal individual might be filled with dread, pain, or anger.
Sousuke smiled.
"Kaname...it IS you...how?" He rubbed his tender chin. His gaze grew distant. "Kaname...that hurt...a lot..."
Those words. Kaname had heard something similar on many occasions. Suddenly, her anger was gone and her eyes filled with tears. Her lips quivered and her legs suddenly felt very weak.
"Sousuke...I'm sorry...but..." She couldn't find the right words to say. There was so much to ask, so much to tell, and she couldn't lasso a single word. Sousuke removed the need for speech from her for a short stretch of time, wrapping his arms around her and placing his face in her hair.
It was a unique moment for Sousuke. He felt close to tears. He hadn't even cried at the discovery of Kaname's so-called death. His voice caught in his throat repeatedly. He could only manage half formed "U...u...u...h...h..h..." Getting a grip on his emotions, he whispered "Kaname."
*************************************************************
Kaname had shock upon shock, but thought she was handling it well. First, it WAS Sousuke. Not a phantom. Not a ghost. Not some figment of her imagination.
Second, it was not exactly the same Sousuke. He was older, of course. But she could sense an almost palpable increase in maturity, as if the most recent emotional hardships had somehow overridden his ealier childhood traumas. He was calmer...still in control, but less noticeably so.
Third and furthermore, he had been very vulnerable for a moment. The tears had still been clinging to his eyes when she had finally brought herself to gaze up at his face. He had smiled soon after that, and the smile was open, almost carefree.
Part of her was intrigued, and anxious to explore the mysteries further. Part of her wanted to immediately start back up right where they had left off.
An equal if not larger part was stricken, almost painfully so. What things had happened in Sousuke's life to bring about such evolution? What events? What people? What women?! Was there still some special someone he was anxious to get back to?
Those latter questions almost seemed more imortant than the more obvious puzzle: why had he stayed away without even a single word. Why had she been told that the TDD-1 had been lost at sea, all hands aboard?
Sousuke had obviously been hit as hard by things as she had, and had his own questions too. He had asked her to hold her inquiries until they had both gathered their composure, and until they had a private and comfortable place to talk. It was a reasonable request, but Kaname had to fight the urge to either kiss him---or pummel him---until he gave in.
They had visited her work place together, Kaname's obvious condition drawing assorted gasps, concern, sympathy, and understanding. Her bosses were only too eager to offer her the rest of the day off with pay. She gladly accepted.
The fourth shock was minor in comparison. Minor, but extremely annoying and completely unwanted.
Her latest ex-boyfriend was certainly persistant. He was waiting down at the street, three hired street minstrels by his side. He had set up a small tent, and had a folding table filled with snacks and potables. The minstrels were nibbling on scones and quaffing carbonated fruit drinks. They couldn't have been out here for too long. Why hadn't they just waited a few moments longer?!
Kaname wished at least one of them had been dressed as a mime...she was looking for any excuse to justify extreme punishment. Her emotions had already been well into the red. This was NOT the time for such blatant foolishness!
She looked up at Sousuke's face. He was not wary or paranoid. He was curious and confident. His eyes moved rapidly, obviously taking full stock of the situation. He was content to simply observe.
The ex-boyfriend clapped his hands. The minstrels tossed aside their pastries and cups, and quickly grabbed their instruments, their period costumes flapping with every strong gust of wind. Lute, shawm, and doumbek in hand, they started up a sprightly 14th century troubador tune.
Standing and bowing towards Kaname, the ex-boyfriend began to sing, somewhat off key. The words were from "Foy portes," a work of Guillaume de Machant:
"I want to stay faithful
"Guarding your honor
"Seek peace, obey
"Fear, serve, and honor you
"Until death
"Peerless Lady....!"
Kaname began fuming. Had she been a cartoon character, steam would surely be pouring out of both ears. This! Now! With Sousuke here!
She looked back up into Sousuke's eyes. Part of her was worried that Sousuke would cause a scene, brandishing a weapon or sending the minstrels and patron airborne with a grenade. Part of her was expectant, WANTING Sousuke to exact painful vengeance on her behalf.
He correctly read all of her moods. He remained completely still and silent. His eyes squinted ever so slightly. He obvously tried to suppress a grin. He had the nerve to smile outright, when he saw her grimace and heard her start growling on HIS behalf.
The nerve of him!!!
Kaname was a quick thinker. It was one of the reasons she had proven so adept at her line of work. She hated to reward Sousuke for his inattentiveness to her needs, but she had bigger fish to fry now. She had ruled out violence. She had ruled out paying any obvous attention at all to the singing irritant. She quite deliberately reached into her purse slowly, pulled out her lipstick, and made slow and careful use of it. She took a moment to check herself in her small mirror. She took a few steps back and away from Sousuke.
Souske turned ever so slightly, moving one leg back a small bit, as if readying himself for some kind of impact. For a brief moment Kaname was infuriated, knowing that Sousuke somehow expected her next move. She quickly flip-flopped her mood, however. They truly WERE a good team, weren't they. Still.
Kaname took a few brisk steps forward, and launched herself into the air. She landed on Sousuke, arms around his neck. She kissed him with a fervor that surprised everyone present. One minstrel nearly bit the mouthpiece off of his shawm.
She had meant it as a statement, as a ploy. However, her emotions...and Sousuke's...would have nothing to do with that. The kiss deepened, and became fully mutual. Sousuke held her as if he never intended to let her go again, and she eagerly responded to that embrace. After some unknown period of time, both needed to come up for air.
Finished...for the moment...Kaname tossed her hair, setting it afloat on the stiff breeze. With a loud "Hmmppff!," she grabbed Sousuke's arm and started to drag him down the street towards her car.
Sousuke pulled himself from her grasp, surprising her, making her furrow her brow dangerously.
His face composed, and his gait smooth and leisurely, Sousuke walked up to the minstels and their temporary Lord. Uh oh! This was when the fur would start flying! Kaname licked her lips in anticipation. She started to smile when Sousuke reached into one of his larger pants pockets.
Without saying a word, Sousuke pulled out his billfold. He pulled out some coins and paper money, bowed, and offered it to each minstrel in turn. They eagerly accepted his tips, and bowed, flourishing their plumed hats. Sousuke started to hold some money out towards Kaname's ex-boyfriend, then stopped. He shook his head, wadded up the bills, and placed the money back in his pocket. He strolled slowly back to Kaname.
Arriving back at Kaname's side, Sousuke offered her his arm, which she gladly held onto. She felt as if she were walking on air. That had been SO perfect! She stopped. She looked up at him, her eyes large and vulnerable.
"Sousuke...."
"Yes, Kaname?"
"I...I've missed you SO much!" She grabbed ahold of him again, this time clinging to him as if he were the only safe haven in the middle of a roaring flood. She stayed that way a while, crying quietly, as he tenderly stroked her hair.
"No doubt" he eventually replied, smiling when he felt her pull away momentarily. His eyes were not filled with humor, though. "I missed you too Kaname." She burrowed her head back into his shoulder, intent to stand there forever.
*************************************************************
Sousuke sat comfortably, reclining on a couch of Scandanavian design, colorful throw pillows decorating either end. A small purring calico cat had claimed his lap, and he absentmindedly stroked its ears and back.
Waiting for Kaname's return with the drinks, he looked about her apartment, noting the neatly kept shelves, the well-placed prints, and the scattered avantgarde figurines, vases, and conversation pieces. Her selected furniture appeared well chosen for its looks and its potential for comfort. The room was well lit, with track lights highlighting the shelving and the area over the mantlepiece. Candles of various shapes and sizes---some lit, but most not---accented the appearence of the room.
The small creature in his lap stretched, closed its eyes, and gave a wide feline yawn, displaying a set of fiercesome looking small teeth. Sousuke smiled. He thought of Kaname. She could be soft and warm, even cuddly if the moment was right. In the past, she had even come close to purring at times, and certainly responded well to attention.
And she too continued to have her sharp and pointed side. It seems that some things had not changed.
Other things had, however. He had considered her attractive before. She was even moreso now. She had been athletic and confident in her walk before. She glided now...smoother, moving in very interesting ways. Her hair had been an attractive mane, a definite point of notice. It was a silky waterfall now, almost with a life of its own. Her figure had become accentuated in the areas within which he now appreciated accentuation.
Sousuke smiled, thinking of the lost opportunities of his past. Her beauty had captivated him unconsciously in the past, at least as much as he was capable of being captivated. It had been a subtle thrill and unease back then---more a source of discomfort and uncertainty than a hair trigger for hormones and teenage fantasies. It was just as well, he admitted. He had a job to do back then. Things had started to progress significantly in college...but the reported accident had effectively ended that.
He was free to indulge his senses now. He anticipated her walk back into the room.
*************************************************************
After taking a shower and changing into more casual---and intact---clothing, Kaname excused herself and went off to the kitchen area.
Moving purposefully and efficiently, Kaname put together a plate of Pocky and sweet chestnuts, next turning her attention to making the mixed drinks. She decided on lime chu-hai, and gathered up the shochu, lime juice, and soda water.
It seems she was a bit distracted. At one point, she realized she had emptied half of the soda water bottle, filling one glass well beyond the top, forming a small cascade and a puddle on the floor. Damn that Sousuke! She smiled and shook her head. Opening the cabinet, she took out a clean glass and started anew.
Kaname paused for the umpteenth time, attempting to regain her mental equilibrium. She could hardly believe the turn of events. Sousuke. Sousuke was here. Sousuke was here with her. Her thoughts began wandering again. She wondered how he had changed inside. The outward changes were easy to see. He was taller. Broader. He moved with greater ease, but with no less determination. His hair was well manicured, and his skin was pleasantly tanned.
She knew what she wanted most to find out...about him and about herself. Was there a place in her life for him? Was there a place in his life for her? What might their emotions choose for them? What might their current lives limit them to? Had they grown up apart...or had they grown apart?
Kaname would not find out the answers rearranging the snack plate for the tenth time, or wasting her bottle of soda water. She wouldn't solve any mysteries reminiscing about the past, and wouldn't do either one of them a favor by trying to force the future.
Nonetheless, this was not a time to be overly cautious. At the very least, she had the comfort of knowing that he was alive. Already, that knowledge had removed a tragic pall from her previous memories of him, allowing her to enjoy those images again.
Yes, the worst thing that could happen would be that she would wake up again tomorrow, realizing that Sousuke was still absent from her life. What harm could come from being assertive? She should make the most of this opportunity.
Kaname was in a generous mood. She allowed herself to hope. The uncertainty and anticipation were almost electric now. What if they COULD somehow spend significant time together again?
*************************************************************
Kaname and Sousuke spent pleasant moments reminiscing. They mentioned the pertinent things that had occured in their lives since they last saw one another. The time finally arrived, however, when they both could wait no longer. It was time for the mood to change. There were happenings that needed to be discussed.
"Sousuke?" Kaname's gaze was razor sharp, and her posture straight without being artificially rigid.
"Yes, Kaname?" Sousuke caught the change in her look, and nodded his head in acknowledgement.
"Sousuke...a messenger from Mithril brought me a communique from the high command soon after you left college for Iran. It said the TDD-1 had been lost at sea. It said that all hands had been aboard, and that no one had been rescued. They could not provide any further details. I was told that I was on my own. What HAPPENED?" She was grasping a small pillow in her hands, alternately queezing and twisting it.
"Kaname...I can only tell you what I know. I will then ask you my own questions. After that, we can surmise together. Is that acceptable?" He sat straighter up, and removed Iris from his lap, placing her gently upon the floor.
Kaname nodded her head, continuing her merciless assault on the pillow.
"To start off...nothing ever happened to the TDD-1 or any significant number of crewmen. As for my leaving college, I told you as much as I could before I left. I can tell you more now. Arbalest was needed. At least one enemy AS with lambda technology was noted in the vicinity of one of the nuclear facilities. Melissa's ARX-7 was in for repairs...Kurz' had been taken down for routine maintenance...and the forthcoming Arx-7s had not completed their validation phaze. All that meant that I specifically was needed."
Sousuke paused, momentarily haunted by painful memories. Kaname noticed, and her look grew sympathetic, concerned.
"The briefing had gone off without a hitch. I had then spent a pleasant evening with Kurz and Melissa. When I headed back to my cabin intent on getting a good night's sleep, I found Tessa waiting at my door. She carried an envelope marked "Urgent." There were tears on her face."
Kaname flinched at the mention of Tessa's name. Her look grew sour, when she thought of Tessa and "Urgent" envelopes together.
"Tessa" she hissed.
"Yes, Kaname." Sousuke shook his head sadly, his mind awash with potential conspiracies. "She had told me that she had terrible news. She said she was so very sorry. When I read the message, it felt as if my world had collapsed. There would be no reason for me to return to Japan. Stricken as I was, I didn't know if I would EVER want to return again...."
"Sousuke?" Kaname too had her suspicions.
"Uh..." Despite the severity of the conversation, Kaname found a reason to smile, if only briefly. 'Uh.' How many times had she heard that utterance?!
Sousuke caught her reaction...looked confused for a moment...and then looked sheepish. "Uh" he said purposely. "You had been in an automobile accident, colliding with a fully laden fuel truck at a petrol station. Or so it was written." He lifted an eyebrow, and Kaname knew what he was asking.
"I WAS in an accident near that gas station, Sousuke. But as you can see, I survived."
"Thank you, Kaname. I was not certain. About the accident, I mean." He paused to finish off his most recent drink.
"The collision was supposed to have resulted in a tremendous fireball. Many people were supposed to have died. The next day I was shown a newspaper obituary page with your name and picture. Many other names and histories were nearby, all relating to the casulties of the same tragedy. I was in disbelief, until I read the front page. The accident was reported, and a rather detailed description was given...including your name...and your model of automobile."
Kaname had begun to look angry. Not only had someone done this to her...someone had done this to Sousuke! And, it was most likely perpetrated by the very people he served so well...for whom he repeatedly put his life on the line!
"Did you ask about a funeral?" It was the next logical question.
"Yes." Sousuke's eyes looked empty, cold. Kaname had seen that look often enough in the early days. "But my request to attend was denied. The ceremonies were supposedly on the same day as the mission. I..."
Sousuke hung his head. "I had approached Lt. Cmdr. Kalinin. He spoke on my behalf with Lt. Concepcion and others. The professional opinion was that a delay in the mission might be risky, but would not necessarily lead to failure or greater losses. They were in favor of flying me to Tokyo in one of the new F-35 VTOL aircraft---letting me say my words---and returning me immediately thereafter." It was Sousuke's turn to clench a pillow.
"My request was denied by Cmdr. Mardukas, and his order was supported by Tessa. They said that fresh weather reports had come in by satellite. If anything, the mission needed to be pushed to an earlier start time. It was. I can't remember too much of what happened during that mission. I have little recollection of what I did for months after that."
"I can understand that feeling. I went through something very similar, myself." Kaname shivered, remembering her initial days after Sousuke's supposed demise.
"Kaname...you said you really were in an accident? Were you badly hurt? What happened?"
"I was near the gas station at the time of the explosion. A car crossed through a red light at the intersection, and I swerved to avoid it, colliding with a parked flatbed truck carrying fresh produce. It was not a jarring impact, and I was only bruised slightly on my chest. I was in more danger from the fireball, which stopped just short of the street. I felt the heat, and thought my time might have come."
"Do you have any idea why your name would have been associated with that accident by Mithril?" Kaname could sense the unspoken accusation in Sousuke's voice. She knew he was struggling with the idea of possible betrayal and chicanery.
"Yes, I suppose I supplied someone with an ideal opportunity. Even though I had been told that Mithril would no longer be looking out for my well being, I still knew some of the drop points and a few pertinent phone numbers." Kaname paused to take a sip of her drink.
"When I was apologizing to the truck driver, he was very understanding. His co-worker in the passenger seat had seen the whole thing unfold. He said that the other car had continued to accelerate...drove into the gas station...and appeared to head straight for the tanker truck."
"You suspected terrorism?" Sousuke approved of Kaname's thought process.
"Well, Sousuke...being around you certainly rubbed off on me!" Kaname smiled fondly. Sousuke smiled in return.
Kaname continued. "I couldn't be certain. I didn't see how it could hurt if I passed along my concerns. The operatives thanked me, but told me to avoid any contact in the future." Kaname was silent a few moments, dealing with her own thoughts about betrayal, and being cut loose without warning, with no opportunity to make other arrangements if she so chose.
"In the true newspaper article, I read that the driver had left a suicide note. If I hadn't contacted Mithril...." Kaname's tone made it seem as if she were blaming herself for the lies subsequently told to Sousuke. She hung her head.
"Kaname...." Sousuke shook his head and patted the spot on the sofa next to him. "Don't ever think about blaming yourself!" He paused until she got up, walked over, and sat next to him. Kaname leaned up against him with a long deep sigh.
"Look at me, Kaname." His voice was very strict then. He was in command at that moment. When he was certain he had her full attention, his face softened, and he placed his arm around her. "You didn't cause any of it. You simply supplied a convenient coating of truth to a horrible lie. If you hadn't...they would have found something else, and would not have stopped until they made that convincing as well. Perhaps if I had been more suspicious...if I had made covert inquiries...."
Kaname leaned down and bit Sousuke's arm.
"Ouw! Kaname!"
"Look at me, Sousuke!" It was Kaname's turn to take the rein. "You had word from people you trusted. They showed you something any normal person would believe. Someone obviously wanted you away from me. Perhaps they were jealous. Maybe they thought you were being wasted guarding someone who hadn't provided the organization with a single shred of useful knowledge. We can only guess. But if they were so bold to go as far as they did...."
"Yes. You are correct. They would have found some way to meet their goals." His eyes went very wide, briefly. His mouth went razor thin, then relaxed. His tension ebbed visibly.
"Sousuke...what's wrong?"
"I had a very frightening thought...but, one which likely would never have occured. The possibility had struck me that if someone had been desperate enough...and despicable enough...they would not have had to lie. Or, they could have built a more convincing front. Your whereabouts--- and importance---could have been leaked to evil men. A sniper could have been hired anonymously. Any number of possibilities come to mind."
Kaname did NOT want to follow that line of thought. Instead, she thought that it was an appropriate time to raise the stakes. She knew what the questions might do to Sousuke...but he would get there on his own, and she wanted to hear his thoughts. She also wanted to be by his side to offer comfort.
"Sousuke, we were both fooled. And, I suppose neither of us were truly at fault. We know what was said. We can guess why it was done. We...."
Sousuke cut her off, abruptly. "Who." His eyes looked very sad at first, flashing with anger soon thereafter.
Kaname nodded. She stroked Sousuke's arm tenderly, and was rewarded, seeing the anger in his face turn first into surprise, and then gradually into longing. He kissed her tenderly on the forehead before he attempted to speak once more.
"I think we can both come up with one name. Though I almost feel a traitor saying anything without proof, it is certainly a soldier's job to consider all possibilities."
"Tessa."
"Yes. She had her own personal reasons, but I doubt that would have been enough. With her contacts, and her meticulous approach to things, I find it hard to belive that she would have been completely fooled by anyone else. Whether or not she was in favor of the plan, I suspect she was involved at some level." The thought struck Sousuke deeply. He had thought Tessa to be a friend. Would a friend take part in such a ruse, even if under strong and severe pressure?
What kind of commanding officer could behave in such a fashion? This hit Sousuke on a professional level as well.
"Mardukas?"
Sousuke thought a moment. "It's possible. He did not like my attraction to you. He thought my training and talents were wasted in Tokyo. But, even though I never came to like the man, I respected him as an honorable soldier. I cannot see him doing something like this at his own behest...but I cannot say for certain whether or not he would follow along if ordered by his superiors."
"Kalinin?"
"No!" Sousuke's response was quick, instinctual. "At least, I strongly doubt he would take part in such a charade. First, he is an honorable man. Second, he supported my decision to remain by your side, even though he felt I might better serve elsewhere. And, he seemed honestly saddened at the news of your demise, and made efforts to gain permission for me to attend your funeral."
"Not Kurz or Melissa."
"No." There was no doubt whatsoever in Sousuke's mind.
"Someone in the High Command?"
Sousuke nodded his head. "It is certainly possible. They tend to view soldiers as commodities, regardless of how philanthropic their overall view of the organization's purpose may be. And, there is certainly no guarantee that some of them may not be ruthless driven men. There had been traitors at Headquarters in the past, as Gauron's takeover attempt once plainly demonstrated. If there could be traitors, there could certainly be lesser evils."
Kaname squeezed Sousuke's hand, then brushed her fingers across his cheek. "Sousuke...what are you going to do? Are you going to pursue this...or keep things to yourself?"
Sousuke understood the given question. He also correctly read Kaname's underlying query. "I'm not certain, Kaname. There is certainly a danger in exposing the misbehavior of superiors or people with power. But this is more than a matter of honor. More than a matter of right versus wrong. I have to determine who might be currently at risk, and what actions might be taken against them. Against us."
"Sousuke...." Kaname stopped, not certain how to best ask her question.
"Might I consider leaving Mithril?" Sousuke paused for effect, meeting Kaname's eyes. "And, might I consider what my decisions might mean for the two of us, and what future relationship we might have together?"
"Yes." Kaname blushed, lowering her head. When she raised her head back up again, her look was eager and intense.
"The first is a very difficult question Kaname, no matter what some individuals in Mithril may have done to us. I do not want to live for revenge ever again. And I do not want my anger to dominate my actions. We should both realize that Mithril continues to perform a tremendous service from a global perspective, improving the lives of countless people. And, we should not judge the whole cart of apples to be rotten, just because we happened upon a bad sample."
Kaname nodded her head. "But we are within our rights to check each apple more carefully, aren't we?"
"Yes. My thoughts exactly, Kaname. There are things I need to find out before I make any decision in that regard. I trust Kurz and Melissa implicitly, and they need to know---at the very least---that you are still alive. I also trust Cmdr. Horowitz, the commander of the TDD-3, and Lt. Cmdr. Ben-Elieden, the commander of the SRT. I do not wish to embroil them in controversy, but I trust their judgement. And, I feel I must inform them of my actions, if I decide to procede with anything potentially disruptive."
Despite many of the changes that maturity had wrought, Sousuke still suffered from occasional slips of the tongue. "And, I can ask for Capt. Concepcion's assistance. I believe she would be discrete. We had grown somewhat closer, for a while." He realized his mistake when he saw Kaname's questioning scowl. He moved quickly onward.
"Kaname, I believe you also wanted to know what we might be able to hope for from each other?"
Kaname's look softened, and her heart was in her eyes. "Yes, Sousuke. I would very mich like to know that." She halted, momentarily. Squaring her shoulders, she continued. "Is there...someone...Sousuke? There isn't for me...."
Sousuke shook his head. "Like you, Kaname, I looked for companionship from time to time, but never seemed able to find someone sufficient. Not one of them was you." Sousuke felt warm inside when he saw Kaname's reaction to that statement.
"Does that mean....?" Kaname held her breath, a tidal wave of emotions sweeping across her thoughts.
"Yes, Kaname. I would like to spend time with you again. I would like to see where things might lead."
"Me too, Sousuke...me too!!!" For the first time in a long while, Kaname felt truly happy.
They spoke at length, on various topics, until Kaname's every other sentence appeared to be punctuated with a yawn.
"You look exhausted, Kaname. Perhaps it is time for you to get some sleep. I should be on my way, before hotel desks begin closing."
"SOUSUKE!!!" That voice certainly brought back memories for the two of them. "Do NOT be such a moron, Sousuke. You will be staying here, of course. There is plenty of room."
Her eyes took on a curious glow, one Sousuke was not certain he had seen before. "You could probably use a shower, Sousuke. While you are doing that, I will get things ready for you."
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While Sousuke was in the shower, Kaname went about preparing things for Sousuke. She hummed happily to herself, stopping only to smile, or to consider if she were doing the right thing. No. There was no doubt. There was something she had long regretted.
Sousuke himself had drilled her repeatedly about the importance of timing in the offensive part of battle.
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The warm shower was certainly welcome. Sousuke felt a need to wash away the grime and filth of the day. Symbolically, he felt determined to wipe away the residua of past events that covered his soul like a clinging layer of dust.
His body felt fresh. His mind and spirit too. He still could not believe his good fortune, finding Kaname alive. Finding her unattached and still interested!!!
Finished dressing, he stepped out of the bathroom, intending to pass through Kaname's bedroom on his way to the living room area. No doubt the couch had been prepared with comfortable pillows and blankets.
He would not make it to the living room that evening.
The first thing he noticed was that the bed cover had been turned down, with fluffed pillows exposed on both sides. At the sudden dimming of the lights, he turned his head towards the doorway.
Kaname stood there, holding a generously filled wine glass in each hand. She was wearing lacey lingerie that left little to the imagination...and made her look better than any woman had a right to.
Ah! It seems that he had taught Kaname how to fish only too well. Sousuke knew he was well and firmly hooked when Kaname spoke.
"Sousuke...do you still carry those latex emergency canteens in your weapons kit?"
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END
and WHERE did you say this grew out of dd?
