[FIC] Still Untitled (pt 2)
Posted: Sun Sep 05, 2004 1:10 pm
The standoff had been incredibly tense for a few moments.
One Mithril agent lay on his back covered with water, the shredded and tattered remnants of flowers dotting his head and suit jacket. His gun was under the nearest sofa, and his lower lip was badly split.
A second operative, his gun only partly raised, looked at Sousuke with a combination of anger and embarrassment. He swallowed hard, thinking what would have happened had Sousuke pulled the trigger on the gun pointed straight between his eyes.
Things had diffused when Tessa walked into view, the startled look on her face showing traces of humor and nostalgia. “I’m awfully glad that I didn’t ask Cmdr. Mardukas to accompany me” she said sarcastically. She tossed her ponytail and waved when she saw Kaname peek into the apartment.
Sousuke was speechless. His immediate reaction was one of disbelief. Anger began settling in, vying for space with curiosity and disapproval. He gave Kaname a quick hand signal, letting her know that the room should be safe.
“It wouldn’t have been an issue had we expected you, Captain.” Sousuke’s voice was as respectful as he could make it, but he was obviously making a strenuous effort. “Tactically, it would have been wise. In addition, it would have been...... courteous.”
Tessa frowned. One eyebrow crept ceiling ward when Kaname glided of to him, took his arm, then gave him a rather demonstrative kiss.
“No one is too big to be courteous, sweetheart” Kaname said with a deliberate prolongation of that last word. “But some are too little.” She whispered in Sousuke’s ear: “Say anything about my using a quotation, and I’ll stomp on your foot.”
Tessa scowled, bit her lip, then smiled after looking contemplative for a moment. "Charm…… which means the power to effect work without employing brute force….“ She sniffed when she mentioned brute force, causing Kaname to narrow her eyes and dig her fingernails into Sousuke’s arm. “……Is indispensable to women. Charm is a woman's strength just as strength is a man's charm.” At that latter part, she made an effort to look Sousuke up and down slowly.
Kaname reminded herself that she held the upper hand, because she held Sousuke. She opened her mouth for a snappy comeback, but Sousuke shook his head.
Both Mithril agents were glancing in Kaname's direction with rather cross looks on their faces, concerned what she might do or say to the Captain.
Sousuke noticed.
His face darkened. “It would prove unwise to take any actions against Miss Chidori.” He took a moment to look each man in the eye… check the clip in his pistol… then make eye contact once again. He got his point across.
“Hmmmpppfff.” Kaname held her chin up.
“You are correct, off course, Sousuke.” Tessa twirled her hair in her hand. “But, we were under a bit of duress….” She looked at her companions who nodded their heads in confirmation. “And, I knew that you would be able to handle things without any difficulty.” Tessa smiled sweetly.
“Diplomacy is the art of letting someone else have your way,” Sousuke said as a challenge, still unhappy with the situation. “And, a woman generally has two reasons for doing a thing. One that sounds good, and the real one.” He winced when Kaname gave him a pinch. “I would much prefer the latter, Captain.”
Tessa quickly lost her smile. She was not a tyrant, but she did expect some respect for her status as Sousuke’s commanding officer. She felt distinctly dyspeptic when she saw Kaname hug Sousuke for standing up to her.
“I suppose I do owe you an explanation, Sergeant. You, however, still owe me some respect.“ Tessa looked over at Kaname, giving her a look that said ‘I have earned a spot in life… what have you done?‘ Taking a breath to calm herself, she continued. “There was something I remember hearing once. It was advice to children crossing the street. ‘Damn the lights. Watch the cars. The lights ain't never killed nobody.’ That’s what I was doing.” She stiffened up and stood her ground.
“Captain?” Sousuke looked puzzled, and also loosened up some. He was a member of Mithril. As long as he was part of that organization, he did have an obligation to follow the chain of command, with all that implied.
Settled down enough to remember her manners, Kaname went to get drinks for the two operatives. She may have been occupied with that endeavor, but her ear was firmly glued to the conversation between her boyfriend and her one time rival.
Well, ‘almost rival.’
Sort of.
“You’re going to have a new neighbor, in a sense.” Tessa smiled. Her eyes lit up and she struck a happy pose. “We were setting up a new safe house….” She paused for a sense of drama, looking over at Kaname. “I need a place to stay while I work in Tokyo.”
A small inarticulate squeak was heard, followed by the sound of numerous small objects hitting the floor. Kaname had upended an ice tray. She fought to regain her control.
“We’ll be seeing a lot more of each other, Sousuke.” Tessa preened. “A whole lot more.”
Kaname knocked one of the drinks into the sink. It took all of her strength not to turn and glare at Tessa.
“I do not understand.” Sousuke began to wonder if Tessa’s proclamation had to do with his new mission assignment. He was beginning to feel somewhat uncomfortable. “What about command of Da Danaan?”
“We can discuss that later,” Tessa said. “Regarding the basics, I have already given you hints of things that would be coming.” She grinned, wanting to see how long it took Sousuke to catch on.
Sousuke’s mind worked furiously. He ran over the conversation he had with Tessa prior to going to America.
'I take it that you understand your primary reason for being pulled away from Tokyo?'
'Yes, Captain. Mithril is attempting to discover anyone and everyone with a possible talent to operate the Lambda Driver. It is my purpose to facilitate such a search. That, and serving as a catalyst or enabler for the system.'
‘The potential candidates were all hoping to be able to form a bond with the A.I. After that, they wanted to see if they could operate the Lambda Driver. The all accepted their failure with good grace. However, a number of them raised complaints. No, it was a single common complaint.'
'The test facilities?'
'No. You. You were the subject of their complaints.'
'Me? How can that be so, Captain?'
'While they all commended you on your eagerness to assist them in their endeavor, a number of the aspiring candidates thought that you were all too eager. They sensed that you were hoping to distance yourself from Arbalest, or at least find someone else to take it off your hands, so to speak. It was even more than that. Some felt that you had an open dislike for the machine. They doubted that you trusted it.'
'They are correct, captain. I do not trust the machine. It is defective.'
'You are pretty swift to jump to that conclusion, aren't you Sgt. Sagara? Perhaps it's YOU who are defective.'
Sousuke frowned, remembering that exchange. Things had continued downhill from there.
'Yes. You have never given the ARX system a fair trial. The initial bonding had been under stressful circumstances, but you had opportunity to form a more complete connection many times after that during simulated missions and training sessions. Your enthusiasm had been notably lacking. That was the reason I agreed with the order to have you undergo the treatment.'
'Captain, the only reason I was able to connect with the A.I. In the first place had been through the assistance of Miss Chidori. That was the alpha event. I would not have been able to do so without her. I am not surprised that the machine proved difficult to harness after that.'
Naturally, Tessa had not taken kindly to the mention of Kaname. Her response had prompted statements that Sousuke had come to regret in part, but only in part.
'I see. Perhaps you can find someone else to take my place. All you need to do is pour medicines into the candidates. It worked once.'
That had been a bit unfair. His grasp on his newly exposed emotions had left something to be desired.
'The ARX system is incomplete, Sergeant. Captain Morauta died before he could finish his work. It's quite a coincidence, since it seems that you are rather incomplete yourself, Sergeant.'
That had stung. Remembering those words had Sousuke setting his jaw and clenching one hand.
Tessa stood quietly, assessing every play of emotion that ran across Sousuke’s face. She was certain he would figure out why she was there, even if he had no idea of the particulars.
Sousuke continued to think back to that time in Tessa’s cabin. Her next set of words gave him all of the clue he truly needed.
'So, it only makes sense for Mithril to put its efforts towards completing the ARX-7. We can do that onboard Da Danaan with me as a consultant, and with additional Whispered assistance. Or, you can do it at the major research facility with whatever staff they can assemble.'
‘You are the only person in this organization with any relationship to the A.I. That A.I. Is the only one with a symbiotic relationship with the Lambda Driver. The Lambda Driver is our only hope against similar technology in the hands of out enemies. And we are the only hope for a tired and beleaguered world. That should all be simple enough to understand.'
Tessa had been championing that idea ever since, no doubt. She and Cmdr. Mardukas had tried the hard sell on him when they showed up unannounced at another site. Kaname’s father’s house.
‘But… you see… while they are repairing the ARX-7... there will be an opportunity to add refinements. I am currently the highest ranking Whispered in Mithril, and Arbalest is part of my force. No one has the familiarity with that system that you do.’
Sousuke ran his hand through his hair. Had Mithril moved Arbalest to some clandestine and presumably well-guarded facility in Tokyo? Was that what this was all about, upgrades to the machine that made him such a valuable commodity?
‘You could be stationed at the research facilities. The benefit for Mithril might be substantial. Your insights might help reach a breakthrough.”
Tessa had implied that contributing to such efforts was his duty.
'I could use my leave time on the island, Sousuke. I… I have spent time reading over Bunny’s notes. If we worked together, we might find a solution to the Lambda Driver interface that doesn’t require medication. After your heroism, our contacts in the United States will no doubt be able to supply us with more secret funding as a reward. We might be able to build more Arm Slaves like Arbalest.'
No. It didn’t necessarily have to be something that limited his future choices. It might be something that had the opposite effect. That would be a very good thing. But, something she had said after that suddenly came to mind. It had him feeling very uneasy for some reason.
“It would be better if you didn’t need to rely on anyone but yourself, Sergeant. If… if you grow too dependent on someone that way…. you could also work on your self reliance while you help with Arbalest.”
She had been talking about the fact that he had needed Kaname’s help in one form or another, in Khanka… North Korea…. New York….
‘Please, Sousuke. Think things over. I know how responsible a person you are. You can remember how you felt as a child… the kind of life you were forced to lead…. the path you may have ended up following. The work you do… and the further things you can accomplish… it can make a difference in so many other lives like that.’
That had been a shrewd blow, then. It was a shrewd blow, still. Sousuke had stood up for himself then, making his own feelings known.
‘I would ask that the two of you consider something as well. There is a common story that takes many forms. A goose that can lay golden eggs. In one version of the story, the owner of the goose cuts the goose open, wanting to find all of the gold inside her. The goose turns out to be like any other goose inside and, being dead, could lay no more golden eggs.’
Obviously, Tessa… and possibly the Higher Command… were willing to take calculated risks in order to further the capabilities of the secret fighting force. He had to admit that he would do the same, if he was in their shoes.
But, there was something else he would need to consider. It had him starting to sweat ever so slightly. He had recounted the entire conversation to Kaname, after Tessa and Cmdr. Mardukas had left. He left out only one detail. Something Tessa had said as she was preparing to go.
‘Sousuke, do you think I would look good with implants?’
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
“Sousuke, are you OK? You don‘t look so well?” Kaname had a concerned look on her face.
“Uh… yes… I’ll be fine….” Sousuke swallowed hard and steered his thoughts back where they belonged. “I was expecting a new mission…. But not something research oriented. You said you were stationed in Tokyo? For a prolonged period of time?”
The young soldier had not had a lot of time to consider the possible ramifications. He didn’t need to. His mind conjured up any number of situations that could cause Kaname to take offense, or to begin feeling worried or upset.
In some ways, he would have rather heard that he would be headed into a terrorist enclave or a dangerous undercover situation.
“Yes.” Tessa said with a large smile. “ The issue of the Lambda Driver has taken on greater significance in the planning of highest echelons. My value as a designer…… and as someone somewhat experienced with the device under command conditions…… has made me more valuable as a scientific resource than as a commander of an undersea craft. Any number of able naval personnel could take over my role, but I am the only one available to work on the project.”
It was essentially true. Tessa’s role as the TDD-1’s designer had only so much benefit. The submarine had proven its meddle again ad again, and certain higher ranking officials wanted a keen military commander in place. Others still argued strenuously that Tessa’s Whispered abilities had a role to play.
Kaname looked like she was ready to spit. Her mind was working quickly, trying to figure out what this all meant in regards to Sousuke.
She would have much preferred Tessa to have been sent to a terrorist enclave or out into a dangerous undercover situation.
As long as it was NOT Sousuke’s covers!
“Will you be stationed at the high school as a putative student there, or will they portray you as an underage University transfer?” Sousuke hoped it was the latter. He did not want to have to deal with Tessa at the school, day in day out. Her short visit had almost gotten him sick from nervous exhaustion, and drowned in the school pool.
Tessa opened her mouth to reply, but someone else spoke up before she had a chance.
“Where will the work be centered? Who will be working with you?” Kaname hoped that Tessa would be as far away as possible. But, it was the second question that held the greater relevance to her.
She did not want Tessa anywhere near Sousuke.
Yes, she was being foolish. Yes, she was being jealous. No, she was not giving Sousuke enough credit.
But, this was not a time that she would be ruled by logic and statistical likelihood.
“I wanted to come back to the High School,” Tessa said, standing up, bending backwards, and stretching languidly. Sousuke looked away. Kaname felt an urge to stand up and step between the two of them. “That would have been a lot of fun.” She looked Souske up and down, much to Kaname’s disliking. “Alas, since the work will be taking place at the Komaba campus, I will need to be enrolled as a Tokyo University student.”
Kaname let out the breath she had been holding in. At least that conniving little tramp would not be at Jindai.
“I’ll be working with Dr. Kazuo in the Quantum Pysics Division, under a fictional project studying temporal soliton compression by cascaded quadratic nonlinear ties.” The way that the complex terns flowed off of her lips had Kaname fuming. She thought that Tessa was trying to puff herself up. “Dr. Hideki from the Intelligent Control Systems Division will also be a contributor, making a show of teaching me topics on Autonomous Mobile Robotic Intelligence.”
Sousuke felt better as well. He was already on file as a student at Jindai High School. He doubted that Mithril could buck the system and enroll him at the University.
Especially considering his grades….
“But, as a college student, I will need to experience all of the things that a young girl needs to see and do. It will be expected of me, as a way to keep up my cover. Accordingly, I will have to force myself to go to parties... movies... walks in the park... you know.” Tessa twirled her braid in her hand, then bit her lip. “It might be best if I have a bodyguard who doesn’t stand out, but would appear appropriate for my age. Someone who people might simply think is my boyfriend.” Tessa smiled.
Sousuke froze momentarily. he remembered Tessa's words when she had had been sitting at his table, Takuma chained to a bed.
Kaname suffered a catastrophic spasm of one leg. Involuntarily, she kicked Sousuke’s drink out of his hand, almost hitting one of the Mithril agents with it.
Sousuke couldn’t tell if Tessa were serious, or had just been attempting to bait Kaname.
Kaname sneered, after getting herself back under control. “Good luck. There can’t be too many people in.... Mithril...... who fit.......... that....” She swallowed hard. Tessa could NOT be implying that....
Tessa wrapped her braid around her finger. She winked at Kaname.
Sousuke had reached a similar conclusion. “I already have someone to protect, Captain. There are other matters involved in my choice, as well.” He looked at Kaname. “As such, I hope that you are not asking me to be your bodyguard. If it is an order….”
“With every civil right there has to be a corresponding civil obligation.” Tessa spoke rather authoritatively. “Same thing goes for your position in Mithril. You have gained a lot from your stay in Tokyo. The organization has made that possible, because the circumstances furthered its requirements of you. Those needs have changed somewaht.” Tessa’s eyes flashed.
This was not simply about flirting and teasing. There was a job to be done. The fact that things might well benefit her would not color her judgment. Still, it wouldn’t pay to push so hard that Sousuke threw the bit from his mouth. Mithril benefited him greatly, but he benefited the secret organization even more in return.
For now.
He should see the inherent benefits associated with a more universal Lambda Driver system.
Tessa fluttered her eyelids, then waved her hand. “It truly wouldn’t be all that inconvenient, you know. Since your new assignment will be to help with the research into Lambda Driver technology. We need someone who can operate one such system, and we’re having the ARX system taken out of Arbalest and shipped into our co-funded laboratory on campus.” Tessa yawned and stretched again.
“Arbalest has been dismantled?” That was good news to Kaname. Sousuke would not be able to pilot the machine in combat if it was in pieces.
“Yes.” Tessa said. “That’s very convenient for Sousuke. It will give him a long period of time where he is not such an exclusive commodity in battle. But, it will make him an exclusive commodity in research.”
Kaname growled.
Sousuke was her exclusive property, period. “I see. But even if Sousuke has time to contribute to the studies of the system after school, that does NOT mean that he would have to serve as your protector, right?” She yanked angrily at an errant group of hairs for a moment, then narrowed her eyes. “Unless you are saying that his task as my protector is coming to an end.”
There was an extremely uncomfortable period of silence. Tessa knew that she had no been given the authority to take things that far.
Yet.
It was Sousuke’s turn to scowl. “That would not be acceptable. I owe Mithril a lot, and intend on serving as long as I can, in whatever capacity I can. …… as long as such missions do not interrupt things which have become even more important to me.”
Tessa made a sour looking face. Kaname gave Sousuka quick hug.
“There are terrific benefits for remaining in Mithril, you know.” Tessa played with her hair as she spoke quietly. “Nice pay. Someone to back you up when you are in trouble. Someone to get you out of trouble...... as you well know. A wonderful resource when you will be looking for a college acceptance or a place of employment. Other fringe benefits.” Tessa’s eyes lit up. “And, young men are prone to changing their minds….”
Kaname slammed her hand down on the table.
“Now we see where this is headed.” She stood up. “There are no external sensors to turn off here, Captain.” Kaname emphasized the rank, not the woman. “There are no photo opportunities on the beach.” She remembered seeing a picture of Tessa and Sousuke in Tessa’s cabin on Da Danaan. “I wouldn’t have thought that you would try to manipulate your official business in an attempt to further your personal life.”
“Funny thing. When a woman points a finger at someone else, she should remember that four of her fingers are pointing at herself.” Tessa’s eyes had gone dark. There was some truth in what Kaname had inferred, but Tessa had always put duty first. “Should I be flattered? Do you really consider me to be some kind of threat?” She chuckled, her visage brightening. “You do trust Sousuke...... don’t you?”
“I… of course… yes!” Kaname clenched her fists, until she realized how she must look. Forcing herself to think more tranquil thoughts, she smoothed her clothes and spoke evenly. “Sousuke has never done anything for me to consider him otherwise.”
Sousuke took a moment to examine Kaname. He wanted to get a good idea of how much trouble Kaname was having with this situation.
Kaname was well aware of Sousuke’s scrutiny, and did not take to kindly to it. What, did that big idiot think that she didn’t trust him? Did he think that she was just a high strung puppet to her emotions? Jerk. Moron.
Was there some reason that she should not trust him?
Could that be the reason for his pensiveness?
“Captain, there is an adage I heard once.” Sousuke knew the course of action he would take. It would all depend on just how many things Tessa and his others superiors might try to force upon him. “We choose those we like; with those we love, we have no say in the matter.” The double meaning in his voice was easy enough to make out.
Sousuke had not chosen to love Kaname, but did love Kaname. Whether or not he might continue to like Tessa was open for debate.
Tessa bit her lip. She had deserved that. If she was going to hold out hopes for certain things, she would have to be far more subtle and let Fate take its course.
Kaname straightened her shoulders, very close to crowing. Five times in rapid succession, she had to fight off the urge to go ‘Hmmmpppfff!’
Sousuke turned to look at Kaname. Her compulsion to gloat quickly evaporated. “The only way to make a man trustworthy is to trust him.” His eyes were not unkind or uncaring, but there was a demand there, not a request. “It is always true that you may be deceived if you trust too much. But what kind of life will you live if you do not trust enough?”
Kaname blushed.
Tessa looked on Sousuke with new found respect. There was certainly a lot more inside him than most people had ever given him credit for. She found herself intrigued.
Now, about that subject of bodyguards….
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To be continued. A rolling draft....
One Mithril agent lay on his back covered with water, the shredded and tattered remnants of flowers dotting his head and suit jacket. His gun was under the nearest sofa, and his lower lip was badly split.
A second operative, his gun only partly raised, looked at Sousuke with a combination of anger and embarrassment. He swallowed hard, thinking what would have happened had Sousuke pulled the trigger on the gun pointed straight between his eyes.
Things had diffused when Tessa walked into view, the startled look on her face showing traces of humor and nostalgia. “I’m awfully glad that I didn’t ask Cmdr. Mardukas to accompany me” she said sarcastically. She tossed her ponytail and waved when she saw Kaname peek into the apartment.
Sousuke was speechless. His immediate reaction was one of disbelief. Anger began settling in, vying for space with curiosity and disapproval. He gave Kaname a quick hand signal, letting her know that the room should be safe.
“It wouldn’t have been an issue had we expected you, Captain.” Sousuke’s voice was as respectful as he could make it, but he was obviously making a strenuous effort. “Tactically, it would have been wise. In addition, it would have been...... courteous.”
Tessa frowned. One eyebrow crept ceiling ward when Kaname glided of to him, took his arm, then gave him a rather demonstrative kiss.
“No one is too big to be courteous, sweetheart” Kaname said with a deliberate prolongation of that last word. “But some are too little.” She whispered in Sousuke’s ear: “Say anything about my using a quotation, and I’ll stomp on your foot.”
Tessa scowled, bit her lip, then smiled after looking contemplative for a moment. "Charm…… which means the power to effect work without employing brute force….“ She sniffed when she mentioned brute force, causing Kaname to narrow her eyes and dig her fingernails into Sousuke’s arm. “……Is indispensable to women. Charm is a woman's strength just as strength is a man's charm.” At that latter part, she made an effort to look Sousuke up and down slowly.
Kaname reminded herself that she held the upper hand, because she held Sousuke. She opened her mouth for a snappy comeback, but Sousuke shook his head.
Both Mithril agents were glancing in Kaname's direction with rather cross looks on their faces, concerned what she might do or say to the Captain.
Sousuke noticed.
His face darkened. “It would prove unwise to take any actions against Miss Chidori.” He took a moment to look each man in the eye… check the clip in his pistol… then make eye contact once again. He got his point across.
“Hmmmpppfff.” Kaname held her chin up.
“You are correct, off course, Sousuke.” Tessa twirled her hair in her hand. “But, we were under a bit of duress….” She looked at her companions who nodded their heads in confirmation. “And, I knew that you would be able to handle things without any difficulty.” Tessa smiled sweetly.
“Diplomacy is the art of letting someone else have your way,” Sousuke said as a challenge, still unhappy with the situation. “And, a woman generally has two reasons for doing a thing. One that sounds good, and the real one.” He winced when Kaname gave him a pinch. “I would much prefer the latter, Captain.”
Tessa quickly lost her smile. She was not a tyrant, but she did expect some respect for her status as Sousuke’s commanding officer. She felt distinctly dyspeptic when she saw Kaname hug Sousuke for standing up to her.
“I suppose I do owe you an explanation, Sergeant. You, however, still owe me some respect.“ Tessa looked over at Kaname, giving her a look that said ‘I have earned a spot in life… what have you done?‘ Taking a breath to calm herself, she continued. “There was something I remember hearing once. It was advice to children crossing the street. ‘Damn the lights. Watch the cars. The lights ain't never killed nobody.’ That’s what I was doing.” She stiffened up and stood her ground.
“Captain?” Sousuke looked puzzled, and also loosened up some. He was a member of Mithril. As long as he was part of that organization, he did have an obligation to follow the chain of command, with all that implied.
Settled down enough to remember her manners, Kaname went to get drinks for the two operatives. She may have been occupied with that endeavor, but her ear was firmly glued to the conversation between her boyfriend and her one time rival.
Well, ‘almost rival.’
Sort of.
“You’re going to have a new neighbor, in a sense.” Tessa smiled. Her eyes lit up and she struck a happy pose. “We were setting up a new safe house….” She paused for a sense of drama, looking over at Kaname. “I need a place to stay while I work in Tokyo.”
A small inarticulate squeak was heard, followed by the sound of numerous small objects hitting the floor. Kaname had upended an ice tray. She fought to regain her control.
“We’ll be seeing a lot more of each other, Sousuke.” Tessa preened. “A whole lot more.”
Kaname knocked one of the drinks into the sink. It took all of her strength not to turn and glare at Tessa.
“I do not understand.” Sousuke began to wonder if Tessa’s proclamation had to do with his new mission assignment. He was beginning to feel somewhat uncomfortable. “What about command of Da Danaan?”
“We can discuss that later,” Tessa said. “Regarding the basics, I have already given you hints of things that would be coming.” She grinned, wanting to see how long it took Sousuke to catch on.
Sousuke’s mind worked furiously. He ran over the conversation he had with Tessa prior to going to America.
'I take it that you understand your primary reason for being pulled away from Tokyo?'
'Yes, Captain. Mithril is attempting to discover anyone and everyone with a possible talent to operate the Lambda Driver. It is my purpose to facilitate such a search. That, and serving as a catalyst or enabler for the system.'
‘The potential candidates were all hoping to be able to form a bond with the A.I. After that, they wanted to see if they could operate the Lambda Driver. The all accepted their failure with good grace. However, a number of them raised complaints. No, it was a single common complaint.'
'The test facilities?'
'No. You. You were the subject of their complaints.'
'Me? How can that be so, Captain?'
'While they all commended you on your eagerness to assist them in their endeavor, a number of the aspiring candidates thought that you were all too eager. They sensed that you were hoping to distance yourself from Arbalest, or at least find someone else to take it off your hands, so to speak. It was even more than that. Some felt that you had an open dislike for the machine. They doubted that you trusted it.'
'They are correct, captain. I do not trust the machine. It is defective.'
'You are pretty swift to jump to that conclusion, aren't you Sgt. Sagara? Perhaps it's YOU who are defective.'
Sousuke frowned, remembering that exchange. Things had continued downhill from there.
'Yes. You have never given the ARX system a fair trial. The initial bonding had been under stressful circumstances, but you had opportunity to form a more complete connection many times after that during simulated missions and training sessions. Your enthusiasm had been notably lacking. That was the reason I agreed with the order to have you undergo the treatment.'
'Captain, the only reason I was able to connect with the A.I. In the first place had been through the assistance of Miss Chidori. That was the alpha event. I would not have been able to do so without her. I am not surprised that the machine proved difficult to harness after that.'
Naturally, Tessa had not taken kindly to the mention of Kaname. Her response had prompted statements that Sousuke had come to regret in part, but only in part.
'I see. Perhaps you can find someone else to take my place. All you need to do is pour medicines into the candidates. It worked once.'
That had been a bit unfair. His grasp on his newly exposed emotions had left something to be desired.
'The ARX system is incomplete, Sergeant. Captain Morauta died before he could finish his work. It's quite a coincidence, since it seems that you are rather incomplete yourself, Sergeant.'
That had stung. Remembering those words had Sousuke setting his jaw and clenching one hand.
Tessa stood quietly, assessing every play of emotion that ran across Sousuke’s face. She was certain he would figure out why she was there, even if he had no idea of the particulars.
Sousuke continued to think back to that time in Tessa’s cabin. Her next set of words gave him all of the clue he truly needed.
'So, it only makes sense for Mithril to put its efforts towards completing the ARX-7. We can do that onboard Da Danaan with me as a consultant, and with additional Whispered assistance. Or, you can do it at the major research facility with whatever staff they can assemble.'
‘You are the only person in this organization with any relationship to the A.I. That A.I. Is the only one with a symbiotic relationship with the Lambda Driver. The Lambda Driver is our only hope against similar technology in the hands of out enemies. And we are the only hope for a tired and beleaguered world. That should all be simple enough to understand.'
Tessa had been championing that idea ever since, no doubt. She and Cmdr. Mardukas had tried the hard sell on him when they showed up unannounced at another site. Kaname’s father’s house.
‘But… you see… while they are repairing the ARX-7... there will be an opportunity to add refinements. I am currently the highest ranking Whispered in Mithril, and Arbalest is part of my force. No one has the familiarity with that system that you do.’
Sousuke ran his hand through his hair. Had Mithril moved Arbalest to some clandestine and presumably well-guarded facility in Tokyo? Was that what this was all about, upgrades to the machine that made him such a valuable commodity?
‘You could be stationed at the research facilities. The benefit for Mithril might be substantial. Your insights might help reach a breakthrough.”
Tessa had implied that contributing to such efforts was his duty.
'I could use my leave time on the island, Sousuke. I… I have spent time reading over Bunny’s notes. If we worked together, we might find a solution to the Lambda Driver interface that doesn’t require medication. After your heroism, our contacts in the United States will no doubt be able to supply us with more secret funding as a reward. We might be able to build more Arm Slaves like Arbalest.'
No. It didn’t necessarily have to be something that limited his future choices. It might be something that had the opposite effect. That would be a very good thing. But, something she had said after that suddenly came to mind. It had him feeling very uneasy for some reason.
“It would be better if you didn’t need to rely on anyone but yourself, Sergeant. If… if you grow too dependent on someone that way…. you could also work on your self reliance while you help with Arbalest.”
She had been talking about the fact that he had needed Kaname’s help in one form or another, in Khanka… North Korea…. New York….
‘Please, Sousuke. Think things over. I know how responsible a person you are. You can remember how you felt as a child… the kind of life you were forced to lead…. the path you may have ended up following. The work you do… and the further things you can accomplish… it can make a difference in so many other lives like that.’
That had been a shrewd blow, then. It was a shrewd blow, still. Sousuke had stood up for himself then, making his own feelings known.
‘I would ask that the two of you consider something as well. There is a common story that takes many forms. A goose that can lay golden eggs. In one version of the story, the owner of the goose cuts the goose open, wanting to find all of the gold inside her. The goose turns out to be like any other goose inside and, being dead, could lay no more golden eggs.’
Obviously, Tessa… and possibly the Higher Command… were willing to take calculated risks in order to further the capabilities of the secret fighting force. He had to admit that he would do the same, if he was in their shoes.
But, there was something else he would need to consider. It had him starting to sweat ever so slightly. He had recounted the entire conversation to Kaname, after Tessa and Cmdr. Mardukas had left. He left out only one detail. Something Tessa had said as she was preparing to go.
‘Sousuke, do you think I would look good with implants?’
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“Sousuke, are you OK? You don‘t look so well?” Kaname had a concerned look on her face.
“Uh… yes… I’ll be fine….” Sousuke swallowed hard and steered his thoughts back where they belonged. “I was expecting a new mission…. But not something research oriented. You said you were stationed in Tokyo? For a prolonged period of time?”
The young soldier had not had a lot of time to consider the possible ramifications. He didn’t need to. His mind conjured up any number of situations that could cause Kaname to take offense, or to begin feeling worried or upset.
In some ways, he would have rather heard that he would be headed into a terrorist enclave or a dangerous undercover situation.
“Yes.” Tessa said with a large smile. “ The issue of the Lambda Driver has taken on greater significance in the planning of highest echelons. My value as a designer…… and as someone somewhat experienced with the device under command conditions…… has made me more valuable as a scientific resource than as a commander of an undersea craft. Any number of able naval personnel could take over my role, but I am the only one available to work on the project.”
It was essentially true. Tessa’s role as the TDD-1’s designer had only so much benefit. The submarine had proven its meddle again ad again, and certain higher ranking officials wanted a keen military commander in place. Others still argued strenuously that Tessa’s Whispered abilities had a role to play.
Kaname looked like she was ready to spit. Her mind was working quickly, trying to figure out what this all meant in regards to Sousuke.
She would have much preferred Tessa to have been sent to a terrorist enclave or out into a dangerous undercover situation.
As long as it was NOT Sousuke’s covers!
“Will you be stationed at the high school as a putative student there, or will they portray you as an underage University transfer?” Sousuke hoped it was the latter. He did not want to have to deal with Tessa at the school, day in day out. Her short visit had almost gotten him sick from nervous exhaustion, and drowned in the school pool.
Tessa opened her mouth to reply, but someone else spoke up before she had a chance.
“Where will the work be centered? Who will be working with you?” Kaname hoped that Tessa would be as far away as possible. But, it was the second question that held the greater relevance to her.
She did not want Tessa anywhere near Sousuke.
Yes, she was being foolish. Yes, she was being jealous. No, she was not giving Sousuke enough credit.
But, this was not a time that she would be ruled by logic and statistical likelihood.
“I wanted to come back to the High School,” Tessa said, standing up, bending backwards, and stretching languidly. Sousuke looked away. Kaname felt an urge to stand up and step between the two of them. “That would have been a lot of fun.” She looked Souske up and down, much to Kaname’s disliking. “Alas, since the work will be taking place at the Komaba campus, I will need to be enrolled as a Tokyo University student.”
Kaname let out the breath she had been holding in. At least that conniving little tramp would not be at Jindai.
“I’ll be working with Dr. Kazuo in the Quantum Pysics Division, under a fictional project studying temporal soliton compression by cascaded quadratic nonlinear ties.” The way that the complex terns flowed off of her lips had Kaname fuming. She thought that Tessa was trying to puff herself up. “Dr. Hideki from the Intelligent Control Systems Division will also be a contributor, making a show of teaching me topics on Autonomous Mobile Robotic Intelligence.”
Sousuke felt better as well. He was already on file as a student at Jindai High School. He doubted that Mithril could buck the system and enroll him at the University.
Especially considering his grades….
“But, as a college student, I will need to experience all of the things that a young girl needs to see and do. It will be expected of me, as a way to keep up my cover. Accordingly, I will have to force myself to go to parties... movies... walks in the park... you know.” Tessa twirled her braid in her hand, then bit her lip. “It might be best if I have a bodyguard who doesn’t stand out, but would appear appropriate for my age. Someone who people might simply think is my boyfriend.” Tessa smiled.
Sousuke froze momentarily. he remembered Tessa's words when she had had been sitting at his table, Takuma chained to a bed.
Kaname suffered a catastrophic spasm of one leg. Involuntarily, she kicked Sousuke’s drink out of his hand, almost hitting one of the Mithril agents with it.
Sousuke couldn’t tell if Tessa were serious, or had just been attempting to bait Kaname.
Kaname sneered, after getting herself back under control. “Good luck. There can’t be too many people in.... Mithril...... who fit.......... that....” She swallowed hard. Tessa could NOT be implying that....
Tessa wrapped her braid around her finger. She winked at Kaname.
Sousuke had reached a similar conclusion. “I already have someone to protect, Captain. There are other matters involved in my choice, as well.” He looked at Kaname. “As such, I hope that you are not asking me to be your bodyguard. If it is an order….”
“With every civil right there has to be a corresponding civil obligation.” Tessa spoke rather authoritatively. “Same thing goes for your position in Mithril. You have gained a lot from your stay in Tokyo. The organization has made that possible, because the circumstances furthered its requirements of you. Those needs have changed somewaht.” Tessa’s eyes flashed.
This was not simply about flirting and teasing. There was a job to be done. The fact that things might well benefit her would not color her judgment. Still, it wouldn’t pay to push so hard that Sousuke threw the bit from his mouth. Mithril benefited him greatly, but he benefited the secret organization even more in return.
For now.
He should see the inherent benefits associated with a more universal Lambda Driver system.
Tessa fluttered her eyelids, then waved her hand. “It truly wouldn’t be all that inconvenient, you know. Since your new assignment will be to help with the research into Lambda Driver technology. We need someone who can operate one such system, and we’re having the ARX system taken out of Arbalest and shipped into our co-funded laboratory on campus.” Tessa yawned and stretched again.
“Arbalest has been dismantled?” That was good news to Kaname. Sousuke would not be able to pilot the machine in combat if it was in pieces.
“Yes.” Tessa said. “That’s very convenient for Sousuke. It will give him a long period of time where he is not such an exclusive commodity in battle. But, it will make him an exclusive commodity in research.”
Kaname growled.
Sousuke was her exclusive property, period. “I see. But even if Sousuke has time to contribute to the studies of the system after school, that does NOT mean that he would have to serve as your protector, right?” She yanked angrily at an errant group of hairs for a moment, then narrowed her eyes. “Unless you are saying that his task as my protector is coming to an end.”
There was an extremely uncomfortable period of silence. Tessa knew that she had no been given the authority to take things that far.
Yet.
It was Sousuke’s turn to scowl. “That would not be acceptable. I owe Mithril a lot, and intend on serving as long as I can, in whatever capacity I can. …… as long as such missions do not interrupt things which have become even more important to me.”
Tessa made a sour looking face. Kaname gave Sousuka quick hug.
“There are terrific benefits for remaining in Mithril, you know.” Tessa played with her hair as she spoke quietly. “Nice pay. Someone to back you up when you are in trouble. Someone to get you out of trouble...... as you well know. A wonderful resource when you will be looking for a college acceptance or a place of employment. Other fringe benefits.” Tessa’s eyes lit up. “And, young men are prone to changing their minds….”
Kaname slammed her hand down on the table.
“Now we see where this is headed.” She stood up. “There are no external sensors to turn off here, Captain.” Kaname emphasized the rank, not the woman. “There are no photo opportunities on the beach.” She remembered seeing a picture of Tessa and Sousuke in Tessa’s cabin on Da Danaan. “I wouldn’t have thought that you would try to manipulate your official business in an attempt to further your personal life.”
“Funny thing. When a woman points a finger at someone else, she should remember that four of her fingers are pointing at herself.” Tessa’s eyes had gone dark. There was some truth in what Kaname had inferred, but Tessa had always put duty first. “Should I be flattered? Do you really consider me to be some kind of threat?” She chuckled, her visage brightening. “You do trust Sousuke...... don’t you?”
“I… of course… yes!” Kaname clenched her fists, until she realized how she must look. Forcing herself to think more tranquil thoughts, she smoothed her clothes and spoke evenly. “Sousuke has never done anything for me to consider him otherwise.”
Sousuke took a moment to examine Kaname. He wanted to get a good idea of how much trouble Kaname was having with this situation.
Kaname was well aware of Sousuke’s scrutiny, and did not take to kindly to it. What, did that big idiot think that she didn’t trust him? Did he think that she was just a high strung puppet to her emotions? Jerk. Moron.
Was there some reason that she should not trust him?
Could that be the reason for his pensiveness?
“Captain, there is an adage I heard once.” Sousuke knew the course of action he would take. It would all depend on just how many things Tessa and his others superiors might try to force upon him. “We choose those we like; with those we love, we have no say in the matter.” The double meaning in his voice was easy enough to make out.
Sousuke had not chosen to love Kaname, but did love Kaname. Whether or not he might continue to like Tessa was open for debate.
Tessa bit her lip. She had deserved that. If she was going to hold out hopes for certain things, she would have to be far more subtle and let Fate take its course.
Kaname straightened her shoulders, very close to crowing. Five times in rapid succession, she had to fight off the urge to go ‘Hmmmpppfff!’
Sousuke turned to look at Kaname. Her compulsion to gloat quickly evaporated. “The only way to make a man trustworthy is to trust him.” His eyes were not unkind or uncaring, but there was a demand there, not a request. “It is always true that you may be deceived if you trust too much. But what kind of life will you live if you do not trust enough?”
Kaname blushed.
Tessa looked on Sousuke with new found respect. There was certainly a lot more inside him than most people had ever given him credit for. She found herself intrigued.
Now, about that subject of bodyguards….
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To be continued. A rolling draft....
Then again, I'm also in the South, with trees and cows and lots of backwater people. North Jersey is...ugh. I turned down a full scholarship at Rutgers because of the pollution level. Couldn't even breathe in New Brunswick.
) . Tessa has now been upgraded to Central Antagonist and teh most evil...Hm...Maybe some conversions to Sousuke's house...Y'know...pentagrams, candles, scarlet red, chains...would best reflect tessa now... 
I haven't been getting angry at all lately...which is weird.
One Jersey native to another, maybe? Slight lack of evil for the time being?
But we know that you're stressed and we won't push you. But you can still blackmail! Or at least coerce.