[FIC] Guess Who's Coming to Dinner? (pt 2)
Posted: Mon Jul 05, 2004 1:13 am
Sosuke didn’t want to say anything, but he was concerned that Kaname was taking things a bit too far. Sure, her enthusiasm and zeal was a direct reflection of how much she cared about him…and how badly she wanted him and her father to hit things off… but he had to question her methods.
A large tripod was set up in Kaname’s apartment. She stood in front of it, a long wooden pointer in her hand. On a large pad of sketch paper she had written two heading: ‘Thing To NEVER Do or Say’ and ‘Good Things To Say or Do.’ They had finished with that a little while earlier.
“OK, Sousuke. One more time. What is my father’s favorite pastime?” Kaname looked down a seated Sousuke like she was her only pupil in a remediary class.
“Umm… cooking.” Sousuke smiled. That was correct. He was sure of it.
“Geez. Moron. GOURMET cooking. Please pay better attention.” She smacked him with the pointer.
“But…” Sousuke was getting tired of this method of instruction. It was time for Kaname to learn how to treat a Specialist.
“Not buts. G… O… U… R… M… E… T. Gourmet. Now, repeat that after me.” The pointer tapped on Sousuke’s head with each letter.
Sousuke struck like a snake. His one hand grabbed the pointer and flipped it around behind his back. His foot shot out and caught Kaname’s ankle. She fell forward across his lap. He pinned with one hand.
“Sousuke. What are you doing?” Kaname sounded a bit unnerved. She hated when Sousuke flaunted his skills like that. Part of her hoped that he was in a playful mood, but she was not finished with her lesson for the day.
“Rules of battle number one.” Sousuke smacked Kaname on her bottom. “Concrete tactics designed to compel the enemy must not be successfully employed by the enemy.” He smacked her a couple of more times, slowly, with great flourish.
“You…you…”
“Rules of battle number two.” Sousuke gave Kaname a pat on the rump. “If you impose punishment on the troops before they have become attached, they will not be submissive. If they are not submissive, they will be difficult to employ.” He kept from wincing when Kaname bit his leg.
“Sousuke. You better damn well be attached!” Kaname squirmed, trying to get free. “I know a part of you that will soon be detached if you don’t let me up!”
“Rules of battle number three.” Sousuke swallowed. He couldn’t tell if Kaname were truly angry or just playing along. “The highest ideal is to subjugate the enemy without fighting.” He tickled her, realizing his error when it was too late. Kaname was strong. She almost broke free.
“I already DID that!” Kaname said with a smug ‘Hmmppff!!!’
“Are you sure?” Sousuke made himself sound stern. He almost laughed when Kaname twitched.
“Sousuke?” Kaname suddenly sounded uncertain.
“Rules of battle number four.” Sousuke’s voice sounded dry and lifeless. Too much so. Kaname grinned. “One who excels at warfare compels men and is not compelled by other men.” He gave her one last swat for good measure.
“OK, Sousuke. You win. Can I get up now? I have a terrible cramp.” Kaname made a pained face as evidence.
“Affirmative. If you promise not to strike me with the pointer any more.” Sousuke rubbed the top of his head.
“I promise.” Kaname stood slowly after Sousuke let her up. She then turned slowly and leered down at him. “One who excels at warfare is not compelled by other men.” Kaname made it a point to swivel her hips a bit and thrust out her chest. “I am NOT a man, Sousuke.”
“Uh…” Kaname’s anatomy had the power to stop Sousuke in his tracks. There was nothing he could do about it. He didn’t really mind.
Kaname noticed where Sousuke was looking. She smiled the smile of a conqueror. A few months ago and she would have kicked him between wind and water for staring. Now, he was in danger if he didn’t show the proper appreciation.
“Stay!!!” Kaname pointed at Sousuke. Humming happily to herself, she rummaged through a basket of items near the couch. “Ah. Here we go.” She pulled out the halisen.
“Uh… you said you would not strike me any more, Kaname.” Sousuke eyed the halisen warily. Kaname rarely broke that out any more… when she did, it was usually for something major.
“Did I, Sousuke?” Kaname twirled the paper fan like a baton, tossing it in the air and catching it. “Do you have that in writing?”
“I…ah…”
“Exactly. Besides, I simply promised not to use the pointer.” Kaname smiled. “Men! Hmmmpppfff. If you weren’t so damn obedient, I’d trade you in for the newest model.”
Would she? Sousuke realized that Kaname was joking, but the words echoed in his head any way. It was not a new thought. Kaname was so beautiful, and seemed to grow more lovely every day. He was a plain and average looking guy, nothing to take note of, really. She was so good in school, and he was always struggling to find the time to keep up with his homework and studying. Her popularity always seemed to grow in leaps and bounds. His varied inversely with the number of things he blew up.
“I see.” Sousuke sounded dejected. “Perhaps that would be best. Why should the princess settle for the jester or keeper of the hounds.” He sighed, rubbing his hand through his mop of hair. “Rule of battle number five. Protracted warfare is not only inimical to the state, it may also doom both parties to defeat at the hands of a third party who was not even involved in the immediate combat.”
Kaname stopped smirking. Sousuke had never mentioned that type of concern before. Did he really view her as being too far out of his league, the big stupid head?! Was he concerned that she was going to toss him aside for the next pretty face? Or, was he saying that their constant wrangling was wearing thin? Was he ready for someone new? No. Not her. Not Tessa!!!
“Sousuke. I was just playing. You know that, don’t you?” Kaname’s sounded concerned. She took a few steps closer to her boyfriend out of reflex.
“Yes.” Sousuke snatched the halisen out of Kaname’s hand and flipped it out of the nearest open window. “Rule of battle number six. It is wise to attack the enemy’s plans instead of his actual forces. Hmmppff!” Sousuke tossed in one of Kaname’s noises, knowing it would infuriate her.
Instead, Kaame smiled. The look she gave him was one of pride and affection. “You’ve changed a lot Sousuke. I know it hasn’t been easy for you. I would like to think you’ve done it for me.” She blushed when Sousuke nodded his head. “But, there is one way you shouldn’t have changed.”
“Kaname?”
“You should NEVER let your guard down!” Kaname pulled a spare halisen out of a secluded spot. She laughed as she smacked Sousuke lightly with it again and again. “Chidori rule number one. Kaname always wins.” She whacked him hard once, just to emphasize her point.
“Owwww… Kaname, that hurt!” Sousuke rubbed his head again.
“Good. Chidori number two. Even when she is wrong, let Kaname think she is right.” She smacked him hard on the shin this time. Laughing, she evaded Sousuke’s grab for the fan.
“Listen up. This might be the most important thing of all. Chidori rule number three. Whenever Kaname is right… or thinks she is right… she should be kissed immediately if not sooner!” She dropped the halisen and looked at Sousuke expectantly.
Sousuke stood slowly. He pondered an age old question of warfare. Who should control the utmost power? The military, or the state? To what ends should it be directed? The question was immaterial. He knew who was in control.
“I said immediately if not sooner….” Kaname was tapping her foot.
“My lips hurt….” Sousuke would never purposely be insubordinate with his commanders at Mithtril, unless he was pushed to hard and too fast to maintain an upright keel. Kaname was a different story.
“Too…. damn…. bad….” Kaname was always impatient when it came to kisses. She gave Sousuke a short kiss and a very long hug, happy just to press her body up against his. She felt him shiver momentarily. Good. He was still an innocent school boy in some ways. That meant he was malleable to her influences. Perfect.
When Kaname finally let Sousuke go, she noticed a strange look in his eye. “What’s up, Sousuke? Are you OK? Did you think of something that bothered you?”
“Uh…” Sousuke blushed. “Nothing is improper. I mean, nothing is wrong. It is not a problem.”
“That’s good.” Kaname though a moment, then blushed herself. Part of her was ecstatic to have such a intimate effect on Sousuke. The other part was concerned. Things were going so well from her standpoint. She didn’t want to rush things. But, if Sousuke made any advances, what would happen if she turned him down? His confidence had improved, but he was still shy and tentative deep down inside.
“Are there more lessons for today, Kaname?”
“No.” Kaname sighed. She had done her best. Naturally, all she could really do was throw caution to the wind and let Sousuke be Sousuke. She grimaced, remembering too many incidents where that strategy had ended up with less than ideal results. Hopefully, some of what she had drilled into his thick head would take hold. “We have something else to do.”
“Kaname?”
“Your hair looks like something in a garden, Sousuke. A very bad garden. It looks like something long overdue for a good pruning.” Kaname reached into a drawer and took out a comb and a pair of expensive scissors. “I’m going to fix that right now.”
“Uh… Kaname, there is still time for me to visit the barber.” Sousuke’s eyes looked a little wild. He had a problem with sharp objects anywhere near his neck. He much preferred electric clippers.
“Mmmm Hmmm… you’d go, then come back with a snip here and a snip there. Toughen up, soldier. I want you to look good for Daddy. First impressions mean a lot with him. I really want him to like you.” Kaname’s voice softened. There was a pleading look in her eyes. “Please, Sousuke. I really want his approval.”
Sousuke sat quietly, looking into Kaname’s eyes. This really meant a lot to her. She needed his cooperation in the worst way. He thought he knew why. The parallel was striking.
“OK.” He felt good, seeing the look of relief cross Kaname’s face. Despite all of his improvements, he still felt a compulsion to ask questions when it would serve everyone better for him to remain silent. “You’re afraid he may reject me? If so, would you continue seeing me?” He actually found himself dreading the answer.
Kaname’s eyes looked troubled. “I really can’t say. If Tessa told you that your mission in Tokyo was over, would you leave me?”
They both stood staring at each other, cursing certain things about the world they found themselves living in. It was a difficult place to be, doubly so since they both teetered on the age of adulthood. They had discovered wonderful things together, but could never allow themselves to take anything for granted.
“I don’t know if I could leave you, Kaname. Even if there was a chance you might leave me a month or so later.” Sousuke looked down at his shoes. He clenched and unclenched his fists. Kaname walked up behind him and pressed against his back, wrapping her arms loosely around his chest.
Liking the feeling of her breasts pushing against Sousuke’s back, Kaname lay her head against his and whispered. “I don’t think I could leave you either, Sousuke. But, this is important. I don’t want to be forced to choose.”
Sousuke began to sweat some, too. He obviously liked the feeling more than he cared to admit. Being more aware of one’s emotions didn’t necessarily mean that one would understand them, or be able to control them! “I will do my best for you, Kaname. I know you worked hard, but even the alchemists could never turn lead into gold.”
Kaname kissed the top of Sousuke’s head. “It is not a problem, Sousuke. There’s no need for that. I’m not still so stupid that I don’t know what I have.” She smiled. “Gold is too soft for bullets any way, right?”
“Affirmative.” Sousuke felt strange inside. Leaving the TDD-1, he had felt a failure in some ways. Even though he knew his own value as a soldier, he had felt somewhat lacking. As Kaname tied a cloth around his neck, he struggled with the fact that someone found him adequate for her needs. It was more than that. He found himself wanting to be far more than adequate for Kaname. Could he really be that? Or, was Kaname just seeing him through rose-colored glasses now?
“Now, let’s see if I remember how to do this. It’s been a while since I helped Daddy shape the hedges.” Kaname laughed at the expression on Souske’s face. Big rough tough mercenary. Chews up and spits out enemy Arm Slaves like they were nothing. Takes on crowds of terrorists or gangsters single-handedly. Scared of getting a haircut. “Not to worry. Hair grows back much quicker than branches. I wonder how you might look in a wig….”
“Kaname!”
“Yes?” Kaname snipped off a piece of hair she knew should end up on the floor. She smiled. “Oops. My bad.”
She came close to breaking out in laughter.
“This is an important mission you have assigned me.” Sousuke blurted out with a rush.
“And…”
“There are other military concepts that offer valuable insight. One who knows the enemy and knows himself will not be endangered in a hundred engagements. One who does not know the enemy but knows himself will sometimes be victorious, sometimes meet with defeat. One who knows neither the enemy nor himself will invariably be defeated in every engagement. Do you understand?” Sousuke sounded hopeful.
“No. I don’t speak otaku.”
Sousuke had once thought about writing an Otaku-Japanese dictionary for Kaname. The problem was, everything he said sounded normal to him.
“I don’t know your father. If you alter my appearance, I may not even know myself.” His eyes were compelling, like the eyes of a dog begging for a long overlooked meal.
Kaname scowled. “Geez, Sousuke. It’s just a haircut. Stop being a baby. Now, sit still before you lose something important.” Kaname smiled. She was about to give Sousuke a haircut. While nothing earth shattering, it was still an intimate act of sorts. If Sousuke let her do this, it would say a lot. But, she better make certain that none of her girlfriends got wind of it!
“By your command.” Sousuke closed his eyes. Dating was difficult. It required great sacrifices. For all of Kurz’ pontificating, he never mentioned anything like this. Women! He remembered the story of Samson. He swallowed hard.
Kaname proved to be very adept at haircuts. She was much more patient than Sousuke would ever have expected. He should have seen it coming. She saw cutting hair as a challenge. She was not about to fail.
Like any good cutter in the fancy boutiques, she needed something to talk about. Ah! There was something she had forgotten to ask in her rush to get Sousuke in line.
“So, you said your name is Sousuke, right?” She might as well stay in character.
“Kaname? Are you OK?”
“Play along, Sousuke. Don’t distract me while I cut.” She fought hard to keep from giggling. This was fun. She was cutting hair and it was fun. Sousuke had that effect on her. She hoped things worked both ways.
“Understood! Affirmative. Yes, I am Sgt. Sousuke Sagara, soldier of Mithril. No, forget that last. There is no such thing as Mithril. O, and forget the sergeant part too.”
“Sousuke…. You don’t need to be THAT complete, OK? Geez.” Kaname mumbled under her breath, tossing hair this way and that.
“I see. My name is Sousuke. You are correct.”
Kaname sighed. “I understand that you are planning a trip to America. That sounds exciting. How did you manage to get away from your job?” Her eyes were intense now. She had to be certain about this part. The last thing she wanted was for Sousuke to get pulled away after her father committed to meet him. ‘Daddy would view Sousuke as undependable, no matter what the circumstances were,’ she thought.
“I spoke with my commanding officer, asking for permission. He noted that there were no pending operations that needed my services. I also gave him the details of a conversation I had with a rather forceful young lady.” Sousuke held his breath. Even an inference to Tessa could have ill effects.
“Errr… sorry…” Kaname had accidentally nipped Sousuke’s ear. A small red pearl of blood welled up, but grew no larger. “The haircut’s on me. No charge.”
“Miss, I like that ear. It has been with me as long as I can recall.”
“Shut up, Sousuke! On with your story.” Kaname was tempted to bend over and bite Sousuke’s other ear.
“He was displeased with the girl’s actions. He also said that the questions that I had asked myself were worth asking and worth remembering. He hoped that my answers would continue to be favorable to his cause, but would understand if some day they would not be so.” Sousuke paused a moment, grateful for Lt. Kalinin’s response to his concerns.
“He couldn’t guarantee that the girl’s plans might not come to fruition some day, saying that they did indeed make the most sense. But, he also said that people should not be eager to throw the baby out with the bath water. That is logical.” Sousuke sighed.
“So….”
“I am permitted to accompany a rather vociferous and manipulative young lady on her journey. If an emergency come up that requires my unique talents, he will call for me. He also promised that he would stand in the way of anyone trying to call me back for less necessary purposes, even at the risk of censure to himself. I could not have hoped for better.” The young soldier winced when he heard Kaname snort.
“Vociferous? When have you known me… I mean that wonderful young lady… to be vociferous?” Kaname stamped her foot. The tip of the scissors came dangerously close to Sousuke’s cheek. “And how could ANYONE view me… her… as manipulative?” She started snipping away at a remarkable rate. “You know Sousuke, the bald look is in these days….”
“Urk…”
Kaname smiled. “Done! Turn around and let me see. Perfect! Is there anything that Kaname Chidori can’t do?”
Sousuke wisely remained silent.
“Well then, all that’s left to do is get the tickets. I’ve called around and checked prices. Do you have a need for First Class, or is the cattle compartment fine with you?” Kaname had that look, the one she got when she was about to manage matters to the extreme.
“It should be the sheep compartment, I think.” Sousuke ran his hand through his significantly shorter hair. “But, I have saved you the effort. I already have arranged for our flight out.” Sousuke sounded pleased with himself.
“Really? You never cease to amaze me, Sousuke! What airline?” Kaname smiled. Sousuke was taking the initiative more and more these days. She rather enjoyed telling him what to do, but was not about to discourage independent thinking.
“Nissin Belgium Air Cargo. They originate out of Belgium, but fly worldwide. Mithril has chartered the entire flight to New York, and the plane is scheduled to leave on the day you mentioned previously.” Sousuke allowed himself a smile.
“This will allow me to bring all of my necessary luggage. We will also be permitted to bring any food onboard that you wish. Furthermore, I will be able to stow parachutes away, in case there is any trouble. That luxury would not exist on a commercial flight.” He waited for Kaname’s show of approval.
“Y-Y-Y-…”
“Kaname?”
“You… you… you….”
“Is something wrong, Kaname?”
“You did WHAT???!!!” Kaname formed to fists. She seemed to have forgotten that she still held the scissors. Sousuke’s eyes widened.
“I arranged for---”
“I HEARD THAT SOUSUKE!!!” Kaname tried to breath her breathing under control. She was feeling dizzy. “Why did I expect anything different? Ahhhhhhhh. You decided we should fly air freight? Boy, won’t my father be so impressed!” Her face was getting red.
“But….”
“Yes, I can hear him now. ‘My daughter flew in today, packed right in between some carburetors and some canned beans. I can’t tell you how proud I am of her.’ Wonderful!” Kaname shook the scissors in Sousuke’s face.
“You see….”
“I thought I explained to you that this trip was supposed to be otaku-free. I don’t want to know what you were planning to take along with you. If it can’t get past the security for aircraft suited to carrying people, it shouldn’t be in your bag.” Kaname was trembling now. “Ooooh. Air cargo!!!” She thought a moment. “You better NOT be thinking about bringing along Arbalest or the Bonta-Kun A.S.”
“No heavy equipment, Kaname. Please. This is a personal visit. The arrangement has benefits….”
“Really, Sousuke. You might just survive tonight if you can convince me.” Kaname licked her lips. Sousuke did not find it to be the slightest bit enticing.
“There will be no cost to us….”
“Be still my beating heart.” Kaname had started to tap her foot, faster and faster.
“The flight will be shorter time wise, and there is no danger of delays or holdovers….”
“Better. But not good enough!” She folded her arms across her chest.
“We will be the only ones in the cargo hold. There will be no snoring men, crying babies, or obnoxious children….”
“Things are looking mighty grim for you, Sgt. Sagara.” Kaname was showing her teeth.
“Our own private restroom….”
“BAKA!!!” Kaname started to walk forward. Sousuke was soon backed up against the balcony. He looked down at the lights on passing cars, trucks, and buses. He couldn’t see any ambulances anywhere nearby.
“They told me that there will be a number of comfortable couches and easy chairs in the cargo. We are free to use them if we wish. With blankets and pillows, we could get a very comfortable rest.” Inspiration struck Sousuke, like a life preserver reaching a drowning man’s hand just as he was about to go down for the third and final time. “There would be plenty of time and room for snuggling.”
Sousuke shouted down his internal critic. There was nothing wrong with the concept of snuggling. And, he was continuing to learn and exploit the power of words.
Kaname stopped mid step, looking like she was about to topple over. She smiled. Her cheeks turned red for an entirely different reason.
“Sousuke. Why didn’t you mention that in the first place?”
A large tripod was set up in Kaname’s apartment. She stood in front of it, a long wooden pointer in her hand. On a large pad of sketch paper she had written two heading: ‘Thing To NEVER Do or Say’ and ‘Good Things To Say or Do.’ They had finished with that a little while earlier.
“OK, Sousuke. One more time. What is my father’s favorite pastime?” Kaname looked down a seated Sousuke like she was her only pupil in a remediary class.
“Umm… cooking.” Sousuke smiled. That was correct. He was sure of it.
“Geez. Moron. GOURMET cooking. Please pay better attention.” She smacked him with the pointer.
“But…” Sousuke was getting tired of this method of instruction. It was time for Kaname to learn how to treat a Specialist.
“Not buts. G… O… U… R… M… E… T. Gourmet. Now, repeat that after me.” The pointer tapped on Sousuke’s head with each letter.
Sousuke struck like a snake. His one hand grabbed the pointer and flipped it around behind his back. His foot shot out and caught Kaname’s ankle. She fell forward across his lap. He pinned with one hand.
“Sousuke. What are you doing?” Kaname sounded a bit unnerved. She hated when Sousuke flaunted his skills like that. Part of her hoped that he was in a playful mood, but she was not finished with her lesson for the day.
“Rules of battle number one.” Sousuke smacked Kaname on her bottom. “Concrete tactics designed to compel the enemy must not be successfully employed by the enemy.” He smacked her a couple of more times, slowly, with great flourish.
“You…you…”
“Rules of battle number two.” Sousuke gave Kaname a pat on the rump. “If you impose punishment on the troops before they have become attached, they will not be submissive. If they are not submissive, they will be difficult to employ.” He kept from wincing when Kaname bit his leg.
“Sousuke. You better damn well be attached!” Kaname squirmed, trying to get free. “I know a part of you that will soon be detached if you don’t let me up!”
“Rules of battle number three.” Sousuke swallowed. He couldn’t tell if Kaname were truly angry or just playing along. “The highest ideal is to subjugate the enemy without fighting.” He tickled her, realizing his error when it was too late. Kaname was strong. She almost broke free.
“I already DID that!” Kaname said with a smug ‘Hmmppff!!!’
“Are you sure?” Sousuke made himself sound stern. He almost laughed when Kaname twitched.
“Sousuke?” Kaname suddenly sounded uncertain.
“Rules of battle number four.” Sousuke’s voice sounded dry and lifeless. Too much so. Kaname grinned. “One who excels at warfare compels men and is not compelled by other men.” He gave her one last swat for good measure.
“OK, Sousuke. You win. Can I get up now? I have a terrible cramp.” Kaname made a pained face as evidence.
“Affirmative. If you promise not to strike me with the pointer any more.” Sousuke rubbed the top of his head.
“I promise.” Kaname stood slowly after Sousuke let her up. She then turned slowly and leered down at him. “One who excels at warfare is not compelled by other men.” Kaname made it a point to swivel her hips a bit and thrust out her chest. “I am NOT a man, Sousuke.”
“Uh…” Kaname’s anatomy had the power to stop Sousuke in his tracks. There was nothing he could do about it. He didn’t really mind.
Kaname noticed where Sousuke was looking. She smiled the smile of a conqueror. A few months ago and she would have kicked him between wind and water for staring. Now, he was in danger if he didn’t show the proper appreciation.
“Stay!!!” Kaname pointed at Sousuke. Humming happily to herself, she rummaged through a basket of items near the couch. “Ah. Here we go.” She pulled out the halisen.
“Uh… you said you would not strike me any more, Kaname.” Sousuke eyed the halisen warily. Kaname rarely broke that out any more… when she did, it was usually for something major.
“Did I, Sousuke?” Kaname twirled the paper fan like a baton, tossing it in the air and catching it. “Do you have that in writing?”
“I…ah…”
“Exactly. Besides, I simply promised not to use the pointer.” Kaname smiled. “Men! Hmmmpppfff. If you weren’t so damn obedient, I’d trade you in for the newest model.”
Would she? Sousuke realized that Kaname was joking, but the words echoed in his head any way. It was not a new thought. Kaname was so beautiful, and seemed to grow more lovely every day. He was a plain and average looking guy, nothing to take note of, really. She was so good in school, and he was always struggling to find the time to keep up with his homework and studying. Her popularity always seemed to grow in leaps and bounds. His varied inversely with the number of things he blew up.
“I see.” Sousuke sounded dejected. “Perhaps that would be best. Why should the princess settle for the jester or keeper of the hounds.” He sighed, rubbing his hand through his mop of hair. “Rule of battle number five. Protracted warfare is not only inimical to the state, it may also doom both parties to defeat at the hands of a third party who was not even involved in the immediate combat.”
Kaname stopped smirking. Sousuke had never mentioned that type of concern before. Did he really view her as being too far out of his league, the big stupid head?! Was he concerned that she was going to toss him aside for the next pretty face? Or, was he saying that their constant wrangling was wearing thin? Was he ready for someone new? No. Not her. Not Tessa!!!
“Sousuke. I was just playing. You know that, don’t you?” Kaname’s sounded concerned. She took a few steps closer to her boyfriend out of reflex.
“Yes.” Sousuke snatched the halisen out of Kaname’s hand and flipped it out of the nearest open window. “Rule of battle number six. It is wise to attack the enemy’s plans instead of his actual forces. Hmmppff!” Sousuke tossed in one of Kaname’s noises, knowing it would infuriate her.
Instead, Kaame smiled. The look she gave him was one of pride and affection. “You’ve changed a lot Sousuke. I know it hasn’t been easy for you. I would like to think you’ve done it for me.” She blushed when Sousuke nodded his head. “But, there is one way you shouldn’t have changed.”
“Kaname?”
“You should NEVER let your guard down!” Kaname pulled a spare halisen out of a secluded spot. She laughed as she smacked Sousuke lightly with it again and again. “Chidori rule number one. Kaname always wins.” She whacked him hard once, just to emphasize her point.
“Owwww… Kaname, that hurt!” Sousuke rubbed his head again.
“Good. Chidori number two. Even when she is wrong, let Kaname think she is right.” She smacked him hard on the shin this time. Laughing, she evaded Sousuke’s grab for the fan.
“Listen up. This might be the most important thing of all. Chidori rule number three. Whenever Kaname is right… or thinks she is right… she should be kissed immediately if not sooner!” She dropped the halisen and looked at Sousuke expectantly.
Sousuke stood slowly. He pondered an age old question of warfare. Who should control the utmost power? The military, or the state? To what ends should it be directed? The question was immaterial. He knew who was in control.
“I said immediately if not sooner….” Kaname was tapping her foot.
“My lips hurt….” Sousuke would never purposely be insubordinate with his commanders at Mithtril, unless he was pushed to hard and too fast to maintain an upright keel. Kaname was a different story.
“Too…. damn…. bad….” Kaname was always impatient when it came to kisses. She gave Sousuke a short kiss and a very long hug, happy just to press her body up against his. She felt him shiver momentarily. Good. He was still an innocent school boy in some ways. That meant he was malleable to her influences. Perfect.
When Kaname finally let Sousuke go, she noticed a strange look in his eye. “What’s up, Sousuke? Are you OK? Did you think of something that bothered you?”
“Uh…” Sousuke blushed. “Nothing is improper. I mean, nothing is wrong. It is not a problem.”
“That’s good.” Kaname though a moment, then blushed herself. Part of her was ecstatic to have such a intimate effect on Sousuke. The other part was concerned. Things were going so well from her standpoint. She didn’t want to rush things. But, if Sousuke made any advances, what would happen if she turned him down? His confidence had improved, but he was still shy and tentative deep down inside.
“Are there more lessons for today, Kaname?”
“No.” Kaname sighed. She had done her best. Naturally, all she could really do was throw caution to the wind and let Sousuke be Sousuke. She grimaced, remembering too many incidents where that strategy had ended up with less than ideal results. Hopefully, some of what she had drilled into his thick head would take hold. “We have something else to do.”
“Kaname?”
“Your hair looks like something in a garden, Sousuke. A very bad garden. It looks like something long overdue for a good pruning.” Kaname reached into a drawer and took out a comb and a pair of expensive scissors. “I’m going to fix that right now.”
“Uh… Kaname, there is still time for me to visit the barber.” Sousuke’s eyes looked a little wild. He had a problem with sharp objects anywhere near his neck. He much preferred electric clippers.
“Mmmm Hmmm… you’d go, then come back with a snip here and a snip there. Toughen up, soldier. I want you to look good for Daddy. First impressions mean a lot with him. I really want him to like you.” Kaname’s voice softened. There was a pleading look in her eyes. “Please, Sousuke. I really want his approval.”
Sousuke sat quietly, looking into Kaname’s eyes. This really meant a lot to her. She needed his cooperation in the worst way. He thought he knew why. The parallel was striking.
“OK.” He felt good, seeing the look of relief cross Kaname’s face. Despite all of his improvements, he still felt a compulsion to ask questions when it would serve everyone better for him to remain silent. “You’re afraid he may reject me? If so, would you continue seeing me?” He actually found himself dreading the answer.
Kaname’s eyes looked troubled. “I really can’t say. If Tessa told you that your mission in Tokyo was over, would you leave me?”
They both stood staring at each other, cursing certain things about the world they found themselves living in. It was a difficult place to be, doubly so since they both teetered on the age of adulthood. They had discovered wonderful things together, but could never allow themselves to take anything for granted.
“I don’t know if I could leave you, Kaname. Even if there was a chance you might leave me a month or so later.” Sousuke looked down at his shoes. He clenched and unclenched his fists. Kaname walked up behind him and pressed against his back, wrapping her arms loosely around his chest.
Liking the feeling of her breasts pushing against Sousuke’s back, Kaname lay her head against his and whispered. “I don’t think I could leave you either, Sousuke. But, this is important. I don’t want to be forced to choose.”
Sousuke began to sweat some, too. He obviously liked the feeling more than he cared to admit. Being more aware of one’s emotions didn’t necessarily mean that one would understand them, or be able to control them! “I will do my best for you, Kaname. I know you worked hard, but even the alchemists could never turn lead into gold.”
Kaname kissed the top of Sousuke’s head. “It is not a problem, Sousuke. There’s no need for that. I’m not still so stupid that I don’t know what I have.” She smiled. “Gold is too soft for bullets any way, right?”
“Affirmative.” Sousuke felt strange inside. Leaving the TDD-1, he had felt a failure in some ways. Even though he knew his own value as a soldier, he had felt somewhat lacking. As Kaname tied a cloth around his neck, he struggled with the fact that someone found him adequate for her needs. It was more than that. He found himself wanting to be far more than adequate for Kaname. Could he really be that? Or, was Kaname just seeing him through rose-colored glasses now?
“Now, let’s see if I remember how to do this. It’s been a while since I helped Daddy shape the hedges.” Kaname laughed at the expression on Souske’s face. Big rough tough mercenary. Chews up and spits out enemy Arm Slaves like they were nothing. Takes on crowds of terrorists or gangsters single-handedly. Scared of getting a haircut. “Not to worry. Hair grows back much quicker than branches. I wonder how you might look in a wig….”
“Kaname!”
“Yes?” Kaname snipped off a piece of hair she knew should end up on the floor. She smiled. “Oops. My bad.”
She came close to breaking out in laughter.
“This is an important mission you have assigned me.” Sousuke blurted out with a rush.
“And…”
“There are other military concepts that offer valuable insight. One who knows the enemy and knows himself will not be endangered in a hundred engagements. One who does not know the enemy but knows himself will sometimes be victorious, sometimes meet with defeat. One who knows neither the enemy nor himself will invariably be defeated in every engagement. Do you understand?” Sousuke sounded hopeful.
“No. I don’t speak otaku.”
Sousuke had once thought about writing an Otaku-Japanese dictionary for Kaname. The problem was, everything he said sounded normal to him.
“I don’t know your father. If you alter my appearance, I may not even know myself.” His eyes were compelling, like the eyes of a dog begging for a long overlooked meal.
Kaname scowled. “Geez, Sousuke. It’s just a haircut. Stop being a baby. Now, sit still before you lose something important.” Kaname smiled. She was about to give Sousuke a haircut. While nothing earth shattering, it was still an intimate act of sorts. If Sousuke let her do this, it would say a lot. But, she better make certain that none of her girlfriends got wind of it!
“By your command.” Sousuke closed his eyes. Dating was difficult. It required great sacrifices. For all of Kurz’ pontificating, he never mentioned anything like this. Women! He remembered the story of Samson. He swallowed hard.
Kaname proved to be very adept at haircuts. She was much more patient than Sousuke would ever have expected. He should have seen it coming. She saw cutting hair as a challenge. She was not about to fail.
Like any good cutter in the fancy boutiques, she needed something to talk about. Ah! There was something she had forgotten to ask in her rush to get Sousuke in line.
“So, you said your name is Sousuke, right?” She might as well stay in character.
“Kaname? Are you OK?”
“Play along, Sousuke. Don’t distract me while I cut.” She fought hard to keep from giggling. This was fun. She was cutting hair and it was fun. Sousuke had that effect on her. She hoped things worked both ways.
“Understood! Affirmative. Yes, I am Sgt. Sousuke Sagara, soldier of Mithril. No, forget that last. There is no such thing as Mithril. O, and forget the sergeant part too.”
“Sousuke…. You don’t need to be THAT complete, OK? Geez.” Kaname mumbled under her breath, tossing hair this way and that.
“I see. My name is Sousuke. You are correct.”
Kaname sighed. “I understand that you are planning a trip to America. That sounds exciting. How did you manage to get away from your job?” Her eyes were intense now. She had to be certain about this part. The last thing she wanted was for Sousuke to get pulled away after her father committed to meet him. ‘Daddy would view Sousuke as undependable, no matter what the circumstances were,’ she thought.
“I spoke with my commanding officer, asking for permission. He noted that there were no pending operations that needed my services. I also gave him the details of a conversation I had with a rather forceful young lady.” Sousuke held his breath. Even an inference to Tessa could have ill effects.
“Errr… sorry…” Kaname had accidentally nipped Sousuke’s ear. A small red pearl of blood welled up, but grew no larger. “The haircut’s on me. No charge.”
“Miss, I like that ear. It has been with me as long as I can recall.”
“Shut up, Sousuke! On with your story.” Kaname was tempted to bend over and bite Sousuke’s other ear.
“He was displeased with the girl’s actions. He also said that the questions that I had asked myself were worth asking and worth remembering. He hoped that my answers would continue to be favorable to his cause, but would understand if some day they would not be so.” Sousuke paused a moment, grateful for Lt. Kalinin’s response to his concerns.
“He couldn’t guarantee that the girl’s plans might not come to fruition some day, saying that they did indeed make the most sense. But, he also said that people should not be eager to throw the baby out with the bath water. That is logical.” Sousuke sighed.
“So….”
“I am permitted to accompany a rather vociferous and manipulative young lady on her journey. If an emergency come up that requires my unique talents, he will call for me. He also promised that he would stand in the way of anyone trying to call me back for less necessary purposes, even at the risk of censure to himself. I could not have hoped for better.” The young soldier winced when he heard Kaname snort.
“Vociferous? When have you known me… I mean that wonderful young lady… to be vociferous?” Kaname stamped her foot. The tip of the scissors came dangerously close to Sousuke’s cheek. “And how could ANYONE view me… her… as manipulative?” She started snipping away at a remarkable rate. “You know Sousuke, the bald look is in these days….”
“Urk…”
Kaname smiled. “Done! Turn around and let me see. Perfect! Is there anything that Kaname Chidori can’t do?”
Sousuke wisely remained silent.
“Well then, all that’s left to do is get the tickets. I’ve called around and checked prices. Do you have a need for First Class, or is the cattle compartment fine with you?” Kaname had that look, the one she got when she was about to manage matters to the extreme.
“It should be the sheep compartment, I think.” Sousuke ran his hand through his significantly shorter hair. “But, I have saved you the effort. I already have arranged for our flight out.” Sousuke sounded pleased with himself.
“Really? You never cease to amaze me, Sousuke! What airline?” Kaname smiled. Sousuke was taking the initiative more and more these days. She rather enjoyed telling him what to do, but was not about to discourage independent thinking.
“Nissin Belgium Air Cargo. They originate out of Belgium, but fly worldwide. Mithril has chartered the entire flight to New York, and the plane is scheduled to leave on the day you mentioned previously.” Sousuke allowed himself a smile.
“This will allow me to bring all of my necessary luggage. We will also be permitted to bring any food onboard that you wish. Furthermore, I will be able to stow parachutes away, in case there is any trouble. That luxury would not exist on a commercial flight.” He waited for Kaname’s show of approval.
“Y-Y-Y-…”
“Kaname?”
“You… you… you….”
“Is something wrong, Kaname?”
“You did WHAT???!!!” Kaname formed to fists. She seemed to have forgotten that she still held the scissors. Sousuke’s eyes widened.
“I arranged for---”
“I HEARD THAT SOUSUKE!!!” Kaname tried to breath her breathing under control. She was feeling dizzy. “Why did I expect anything different? Ahhhhhhhh. You decided we should fly air freight? Boy, won’t my father be so impressed!” Her face was getting red.
“But….”
“Yes, I can hear him now. ‘My daughter flew in today, packed right in between some carburetors and some canned beans. I can’t tell you how proud I am of her.’ Wonderful!” Kaname shook the scissors in Sousuke’s face.
“You see….”
“I thought I explained to you that this trip was supposed to be otaku-free. I don’t want to know what you were planning to take along with you. If it can’t get past the security for aircraft suited to carrying people, it shouldn’t be in your bag.” Kaname was trembling now. “Ooooh. Air cargo!!!” She thought a moment. “You better NOT be thinking about bringing along Arbalest or the Bonta-Kun A.S.”
“No heavy equipment, Kaname. Please. This is a personal visit. The arrangement has benefits….”
“Really, Sousuke. You might just survive tonight if you can convince me.” Kaname licked her lips. Sousuke did not find it to be the slightest bit enticing.
“There will be no cost to us….”
“Be still my beating heart.” Kaname had started to tap her foot, faster and faster.
“The flight will be shorter time wise, and there is no danger of delays or holdovers….”
“Better. But not good enough!” She folded her arms across her chest.
“We will be the only ones in the cargo hold. There will be no snoring men, crying babies, or obnoxious children….”
“Things are looking mighty grim for you, Sgt. Sagara.” Kaname was showing her teeth.
“Our own private restroom….”
“BAKA!!!” Kaname started to walk forward. Sousuke was soon backed up against the balcony. He looked down at the lights on passing cars, trucks, and buses. He couldn’t see any ambulances anywhere nearby.
“They told me that there will be a number of comfortable couches and easy chairs in the cargo. We are free to use them if we wish. With blankets and pillows, we could get a very comfortable rest.” Inspiration struck Sousuke, like a life preserver reaching a drowning man’s hand just as he was about to go down for the third and final time. “There would be plenty of time and room for snuggling.”
Sousuke shouted down his internal critic. There was nothing wrong with the concept of snuggling. And, he was continuing to learn and exploit the power of words.
Kaname stopped mid step, looking like she was about to topple over. She smiled. Her cheeks turned red for an entirely different reason.
“Sousuke. Why didn’t you mention that in the first place?”
)
OMG .... DD 