Phantom Pain - Chapter 2
“So.... this is our first time together, huh.” “You could say that.” “Ah~ I’m pretty excited to be working with the best of the best!” “...” A faint muse. A reply. A smirk. A cold glare. Black Hawk flying over the blue ocean. Remarks uttered between the four of them. The scenario played out as if it were the start of an action flick. Objects gently mixed were heard in the background. Yuki’s eyes focused down on her lap. The combat medic’s black gloved fingers rummaged through her white metallic box as she murmured, “It looks like I have everything in here… Hope I didn’t forget anything...” Her partner frowned at the sight. How could her sister-in-arm be checking the medical supplies after leaving the base? Rena wasn’t pleased, but knew better than to start an argument with Yuki. Mouth that was slightly opened clamped its jaw shut. The aberrant attitude from the PTSD-stricken woman would lead to something far worse than that. (There was a reason why she hardly fought with her partner.) Appropriate attires and equipment were required at the start of the mission. Many of them were already attached on their bodies. Upon comparison of the two pairs, there’s a drastic difference in appearance. Mayu and Jurina were outfitted with their black sneaking suit. (Compared to the outfit they donned from their previous operation, this was the best, special military wear from Japan. It boosted the wearer’s resilience and strength thanks to its clingy material.) A gray scarf were wrapped around their neck in preparation for the UA’s wet terrestrial land. The two special operative soldiers also carried their respective silent pistol, light carbine rifle, hand grenades, painkiller pills, handheld binocular, and personalized items. For Yuki and Rena, they greatly contrasted from the operatives. Thanks to a recent upgrade from the R&D Platform in Mother Base, a heavy, black suit concealed all but their head. Gray armor and bulletproof vest clung to the thick material, making it near impenetrable from most common weapons. Although Yuki possess similar weapons as the special operatives, she had a bit more offense than them. As for the older Matsui, she gathered the best of the best militarized firearms. Her fingers curled inward, tightening its grip on one of the best submachine guns produced by the Japanese. Preparation was complete. Not a single detail was left behind. A frontline infantry soldier, a combat medic, and two special operatives could only work in perfection. Defeat was never an option. Within the flying chopper piloted by both Yagami Kumi and Kimoto Kanon, a slightly tensed atmosphere began to hang over the soldiers' head. Although Yuki and Rena are used to this kind of sensation, Mayu and Jurina... not so much. They weren't used to working without anyone but their partner. Now that Aki-P placed the four together, it was an oddity. Was it from the large gap by experiences? Perhaps the tension from the critical mission? Or was it from the current relationship they have as seniors and juniors? Two of them weren't able to put their fingers on it. Two of them only understood their own reasoning to staying quiet. It did not matter, though. The atmosphere became heavier as the minutes pass by. The young Watanabe’s fingerless glove toyed with her silent pistol. Index finger and thumb pulled and pressed against the metal weapon, brown eyes gazed downward at the held object. She did not mind glancing up to initiate a conversation, especially with Yuki, but something held her back. A gut feeling tugged at her tongue to remain in place and kept her pink lips sealed tight. Her heartbeat continued to jog at an abnormally fast rate ever since she plopped into the air vehicle with the experienced warriors. A click was heard as she deactivated the safety lock of the gun. Mayu wasn't scared of anyone. Mayu wasn't even scared of the mission tasked to them. Yet she could not lift her head and make eye-contact with the older Matsui. No... Maybe she was afraid of the intimidating and piercing gaze that the assault soldier possessed. Back on base, Rena's eyes were that of a serious, but approachable, person. Maybe a little too hot-headed at times. Here as an active soldier, however, when Mayu saw her, she nearly felt her heart leap out of her chest and into her throat. Rena's sharp eyes could cut down anyone in her way with a single glance. The first time their eyes met an hour ago, the young female froze in her spot. If it weren't for the oblivious Jurina slapping her back as a wake-up call, she would be rooted to her position like a stubborn old tree. It's no wonder why Matsui Rena is one of the most feared member of the Japanese military force. It’s no wonder why everyone is… so afraid of Matsui Rena. As for her partner nearby, Jurina was like a puppy. Despite the suffocating atmosphere, she kept a wide smile plastered to her face. She gently knocked her elbow against Mayu's black sneaking outfit. When her partner ignored her physical calling, the soldier repeated her action. “What is it?” she harshly whispered. “Can’t you see that I’m busy--” “Mayuyu, look at how fluffy those clouds are.” Mayu resisted the urge to let out a groan at her best friend. How childish could Jurina be? It took a bit of time for the female to raise her head and look out at the window near Rena. Since the infantry soldier isn’t looking up at anyone at the moment, some of her tensed muscles loosened.. Blue ocean. White fluffy clouds. An orange sunset shining the star’s gentle and warm rays upon the watery surface. Sparkles from the light’s impact. A photographer would’ve felt like they hit the jackpot at such sight. A faint smile ran across the special operative soldier’s face as the younger Matsui roughly wrapped her arm around the girl’s neck. Jurina pressed her face close to Mayu’s with a silly grin. “You see them, right? Don’t they look like cotton candy?” A chuckle came from Watanabe. Even though they’re at war, she can’t help but be grateful for her friend’s cheerful, but kiddish, personality. “They sure do. Too bad we’re on a mission,” she muttered and gently shoved her partner away. It was followed by a playful nudge against Jurina’s right side. “Maybe we should go sightseeing once we return to Mother Base.” “Sounds like a date, don’t you think?” “Jurina, please don’t twist my words.” “I’m not twisting it! You’re implying that it’s a date!” Jurina’s pouty expression. Mayu’s constant sighs and rebuttals. The exchange that occurred between the two special operatives was more than enough to dispel most of the thick atmosphere. Any sign of stiffness they possessed eroded away the more they conversed. Even Mayu had forgotten about how terrifying Rena’s presence is in the flying vehicle. Yuki’s watchful eyes did not miss this observational fact. The corner of her lips curled upward as she remarked, “I’ve heard from General Aki-P and our comrades about how strong and close you both are together, but to see it in person… I could see why he would say so.” Hearing one of their two seniors speak about their relationship was, simply put, awkward. The short-haired female scratched the back of her head as she forcefully laughed. As for Mayu, she hardened her facial features. However, a tinge of pink colored her cheeks, eyes looked away from the experienced medic. How blunt of Yuki. “I’m surprised the general would say something like that about us,” Jurina commented. “Should I be flattered?” The medical soldier shrugged her shoulders. “I don’t know. I should be asking you that.” Jurina chuckled. Perhaps she should ask her general about his thoughts on the pair from his own mouth. Ask him why he would think of them that way. Not to mention request that he and the others refrain from spreading gossip about the special operatives. Mayu had similar thoughts as her partner in regard to this topic. (Although her idea might be less bold than her partner.) The youngest of the four then lowered her hand. Any features from embarrassment were now erased. “By the way, Yukirin, I wanted to ask you something.” “Hm?” Legs spread out as both palm of her hands pressed against the seat, Jurina leaned forward. Her personalized Colt Model Revolver dangled on her waist as she furrowed her brows. “So… Why did you join the military, Yukirin?” That question is commonly asked after getting to know an acquaintance for some time, especially within the army. It’s a rarity to find someone joining one of the most stressful occupation without a reason. Curiosity is something many can’t resist. The gentle countenance was, surprisingly, still plastered on Yuki. She leaned back against her seat as she answered the youngster. “I joined in hopes of saving soldiers out on the battlefield-- No... I actually joined for a different reason.” The combat medic gently clicked her box close. Then, she closed her eyelids and exhaled through her nose. “There’s… a friend of mine who enlisted in Japan’s army. I simply followed after her.” Jurina blinked at the response. “Oh? Kind of like me and Mayu,” she grinned. “Mm… You could say so.” She remembers her friend. Back when she was an EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) at a hospital in Tokyo, an unfortunate motorcycle accident became a fortunate meeting for the two. Angelica… That was her name. Her patient and her best friend. “So, where is your friend? Is he or she back at Mother Base?” Yuki reopened her eyes. “No. She died in the line of duty.” Jurina felt a sharp pang of guilt, her eyes lowered as she bit the bottom of her lip. “Oh… I’m so sorry to bring up a painful topic--” “Please don’t apologize, Jurina,” the combat medic raised her hand in the air. A smile, though desolate, painted on her face. “The past is the past. She served with honor, and I am proud to have her as my friend.” Although the young warrior gulped down her spoken words like soup, Mayu narrowed her eyes at the woman. Something about Yuki’s response felt heavy. Positive terminologies were chosen for the statement, but the emotion behind them is disparate from what was uttered. A click was heard for the second time from Watanabe’s silent pistol. The safety lock was activated on the firearm. Her eyes continued to observe the raven-haired female as Jurina shifted her focus to the quietest of them all. “How about you, Rena?” she asked. The infantry soldier’s breath hitched, her pupils contracted. Then, without looking up at the questioner, muttered, “World peace.” “World peace? What do you mean by that?” She gritted her teeth. Brown eyes narrowed, she finally flickered her gaze over to the talkative female. Speaking to others was a pain in the neck, but when it came to the younger Matsui, it was exasperating. It was already unbearable being in the same team as she is. A slightly louder version of the mutter was heard from the scarred female. “I enlisted in the military five years ago. I saw too many sins committed and hardly any sinners being punished for their crimes. There’s also the war raging on, killing many innocent lives. I want to get rid of the cruel people on this planet and make sure conflict doesn’t ever show its face ever again.” A dream that many heroes, both fictional and reality, dream of. Everyone screams out for bloodsheds and crimes to come to an end… In a world run by lust of power, only the strongest survive. Those left behind would be eaten alive. Dismembered, picked to the bones, disintegrated by history. Fate is cruel to the weakest and most innocent. World peace seems like a fantasy, but Rena truly believes in herself that she possesses the power and ability to bring change to the world. Even if the steps taken to achieve this result destroys her body and mind, the soldier is willing to partake in it. Anything in the name of peace. Jurina, on the other hand, raised an eyebrow. “Your goal is admirable, but isn’t that… rather selfish?” There was a pause. Then, an outburst from the veteran. “Selfish? This is in no way selfish,” the older Matsui growled. “The desire for world peace is a serious feat that can only be accomplished by being selfless.” “I don’t see how that works. It’s delusional--” She wasn’t able to finish her sentence. It all happened fast for the other three. Mayu immediately reached out to grab ahold of Rena’s wrists that desperately stretched out towards her comrade’s throat. Yuki, on another hand, placed a firm hand on the woman’s shoulder. The two of them were barely able to keep the short-tempered female from choking the life out of the younger Matsui. “Rena! What the Hell do you think you’re doing!?” Mayu hollered. Her grip on the woman’s wrists were violently trembling, faint outlines of the bones and veins within her hand showcasing themselves. The amount of strength exerted from the experienced warrior is terrifying. She clenched her jaw as she struggled to keep the assaulter’s hands from reaching her partner’s throat. While the special operative soldier kept the powerful female from successfully hurting her friend, Yuki leaned in. Once her mouth was close to the furious soldier’s ear, they opened. “Rena,” the medic softly spoke. “Can you please forgive Jurina? She’s young and inexperienced in war.” Another one of those statement that could be brushed aside by most anybody when they’re angry. Maybe even lash out to the speaker. Yet those words uttered by her partner was more than enough to press the stop button on Rena. She tore her wrists free from Mayu’s hold. The older Matsui loosened her muscles and felt the immense anger slowly seep out of her body. Irritability, however, was seen scrawled all over her body’s posture. In the background, the younger Matsui allowed her unconsciously held-breath go from her lungs. She slumped in her seat, eyes wide and heart thumping. A simple expression of her opinion resulted in a nasty scenario like this? Jurina never expected something like this to happen. Her shaky brown eyes barely managed to look at the female. Then, she immediately felt her chest tighten once their eyes met. She looked up to Rena as a senior, but to see the very person she respect lash out at her is more than painful. It didn’t help that the soldier saw nothing wrong with her opinion. Both of her fingers curled inward. ’Why is Rena angry at me? I didn’t say anything wrong...’ Mayu took notice of her partner’s shocked demeanor. The mouse scrunched her eyebrows together and shot a glare at the older Matsui. Back at base, Rena greatly contrasted to the Rena she saw today. This revelation was a little too much to swallow. Her hand placed on Jurina’s shoulder, eyes still locked on the infantry soldier. “I respect you, Rena,” she harshly whispered. “But I won’t let you harm my best friend.” “You should blame your hyper friend for questioning my resolve then,” Rena spat. She finally shifted her gaze towards the special operative soldier. Watanabe nearly felt her heart’s function cease. Those eyes. Those intimidating eyes that could freeze just about anyone in her sight. They were aimed at her. The ponytailed female desperately kept her ground against the angered woman. An index finger roughly jabbed against the young lady’s chest from Rena. “Tell Matsui Jurina to keep her opinion to herself. The next time I hear her speak badly about me, she’ll regret it.” “Rena, please calm down--” “I AM CALM!” she roared at her partner. Any leftover fury began to cluster together into clumps as the troop smacked the medic’s hand off of her shoulder, teeth now bearing at her partner. “I think YOU and EVERYONE should just SHUT THE FU--” “Oi oi! You four should really pipe it down back there,” Kumi’s voice was heard from the front. As her partner kept her hands on the cyclic stick for steering, the older, more experienced pilot glanced over her shoulder. Despite wearing a bulletproof helmet suited for the driver, a piercing glare could be sensed behind the tinted glass. “We’re getting close to our destination, so stop bickering back there. I don’t care if you resort to violence or anything. Just… You all can continue your fighting at another time.” The four became quiet at an abnormally fast rate. Rena’s heavy respiratory rate, Yuki’s concerned expression, Mayu’s scowl, and Jurina’s confusion were seen. However, a silent, mutual consensus about their upcoming task at hand allowed them to push aside the heated debate. It could be discussed at a later time. This mission, on another hand, can only be completed by the next morning. Time-sensitive tasks gave little room for failure. Those that were standing proceeded to take their seat. The scenery shifted dramatically once the military personnels arrived to their destination; the shorelines of UA. Village homes scattered about on the sandy ground. Sunset more than half-way escaping to the other side of the planet. Warm orange background with a plethora of clouds. This would've been the perfect resort place if it weren't a war zone. Kanon exhaled through her helmet as she slowed the flying vehicle. "Otabe, this is Dance, pilot #1 with Miso, pilot #2 of the Black Hawk," the helmeted female proclaimed as she reached up to flip a couple switches. "Landing on designated LZ for sortied group. Over." Crackling was heard within the pilots’ helmet. “Roger that. Remember to keep distant from the village,” Yui reminded. “There has been reports of armed UA troops with missile launchers in station. Over.” A smirk formed on Kumi’s lips. Another switch was flipped as she responded, “You know us, Otabe. We’re not that stupid to fly into hostile territory. Over.” The whole chopper began its descension. Mayu's hands reached out and, with a pull, slid open the door. The special operative soldiers both adjusted their black scarfs as the gust of winds blew against the other two members' face. Its rotating blade blew off tons of sand the closer the vehicle came to the ground. At this point, everyone had pulled out their desired firearms. Once the helicopter was a few inches above the surface, Mayu, Jurina, Yuki, and Rena in that order leapt out into the open one-by-one. Combat boots slammed down from both the combat medic and infantry soldiers. It was a huge contrast to the sneaking boots worn as a part of the special operative's suit. The four straightened their knees and looked up to the pilots. "Good luck out there," Kanon radioed in to them. It was followed by her partner's thumbs up. “We’ll pick you all up once you radio us.” Then, they were alone, only the faint sound of the chopper flying away in the distant. It did not take long for the heat to get into their system despite the time of the day. All four military members felt their sweat glands activate, the thick uniform increasing its reaction speed. The medical soldier raised her arm up to wipe the sweats that began to form on her forehead. Yuki let out a soft exhale. As both Mayu and Rena adjusted their equipment, Yuki then placed a gentle hand on the puppy’s shoulder. Jurina’s body stiffened at the touch. However, when she realized who it was, her tension eased. “Yukirin, you scared, me.” A faint, but forced, smile ran across the combat medical soldier’s face. Then, she leaned in close to the puppy’s ear. “Jurina, listen to me,” the raven haired female whispered. “I want you to keep your opinion to yourself anytime you’re around Rena.” “I could tell,” Jurina mumbled. “I didn’t expect her to lash out on me like that...” “Looks like I don’t need to tell you, do I?” Then, Yuki pat the young girl’s shoulder a couple of times. “Can you please forgive Rena? She’s just… sensitive.” Silence. However, the young Matsui nodded. A relieved exhale exited out from the other. Whether Jurina truly forgave Rena or not wasn’t clear to the medic. She could just be bobbing her head out of obligation towards her seniors. However, the female truly forgave Rena. She believed it must’ve been the stress that clouded the older Matsui’s rational decisions. Yeah, that’s what the operative decided to conclude from. Both of them then returned back to their partner’s side. Rena was seen deactivating the safety lock from her submachine gun, clicks and necessary adjustment made in swift movement. On the other hand, Mayu detached the electronic compass from her chest. A single press of her thumb against the side of the equipment activated a beam of white light, a hologram of a map pinpointing their current location. It appears that it would take about five miles to reach their destination. By foot, it would easily eat up half an hour. When their equipment and environmental setting is taken into consideration, another half an hour was added to the equation. It would take at least an hour to get there by foot for the four of them. She narrowed her eyes. “Here’s the plan,” Mayu explained to the other soldiers, eyes still glued to the held device. “Center and I will scout on ahead by a meter. We’ll relay any information to you both.” “I assume Gekikara and I will be in charge of the dirty work?” Yuki asked. A nod. “If the time comes for it, yes. Otherwise, we need you both to provide support.” Reattaching the blocky object back to her chest, the special operative adjusted her hold on the light carbine rifle. “Nightfall will descend upon us once we arrive. Be prepared for anything.” “Roger that.” A brief pause hung in the air before the raven haired female continued with an accompanying grin. “I look forward to working with you both. Our general showers praises about you all.” Watanabe was unable to resist a faint tinge of pink from the compliment. This was the second time that they were spoken well about. She was not used to this. A fist was brought close to her mouth as she let out a forced cough. “Let’s… Let’s just move out.” ---------- The sky’s color transitioned from orange to black. Stars twinkled up above their heads, assisting the moon in shining its gentle, white rays upon the land. Sand grounds shifted into lush forest. Then, as if on cue, the clouds came rumbling like a giant. Dark and vengeful, the heavy clouds emptied big, sopping drops of moisture. The leaves from nearby trees hardly protected the members from the watery substances. Top to bottom, all four were soaked. No one had expected this to occur. Thanks to the weather change, the assault duo were forced to cluster back with the special operatives, the group still moving forward without hesitation. Boots clomped and splashed among the soft, muddy ground. Weapons readied at hand. Determination burning within their core. Mayu’s eyes narrowed through the attached night goggles. Thanks to the tinkering during her spare time at Mother Base, she was able to guide the other three through the dense setting. Four soldiers were at an elevated level, their presence concealed with the assistance of bushes and large number of trees standing in the way. A few steps were taken before she came to an abrupt halt. Left hand raised, everyone trailing immediately stopped in their tracks. This young lady was crouched onto one knee, head barely peeking over the cover. Silence hung in the atmosphere as the mouse scanned their destination. A village. The influential and elite official from the UA nation spilled out information of this crucial part of their land. Standing between one of the four borderlines and the heart of the nation’s capitol? Perfect spot for a base. Crackles emitted from all four earpieces, each of them pressing an index finger against the electronic device. “Please be careful out there, everyone,” Yui’s voice transmitted through. “Your mission will be to infiltrate the base. Since we received reports from multiple Intel Team members, there shouldn’t be villagers. However, there will be soldiers.” A pause. Then, in a softer tone, the female added, “Securing this base is a crucial move for our country, but losing your life will be meaningless. Over.” Jurina chuckled after the spoken statement. She raised and rested her light carbine rifle over her shoulder, a grin stretched across her face. “Otabe, don’t you worry. Us four will take control of this base for our country. Over.” “I agree with Center. We won’t let everyone down. Over,” Yuki added. “Failure isn’t an option, Otabe,” the older Matsui finally spoke. She retracted her fingers from the earpiece as she lifted her submachine gun. Eyebrows furrowed, her mouth slowly moved. “We’ll come out alive. Over.” “Very well. I look forward to seeing you all back to base by tomorrow evening. Over.” It was time to commence their mission. The rest retracted their hand from the communication device, eyes trained upon the dark village before their eyes. Watanabe Mayu scanned the premise once again. So far there was no one in sight. However, it did not mean there weren’t enemies. She bit the bottom of her lip and glanced over her shoulders, the green-colored goggles staring at her sister-in-arm. “Center and I will scout ahead, marking down any enemies in the village. You both stay here. I will give the signal when it’s time to move forward.” Once the plan is stated, without waiting for a response, the same female then used the chance to click and hold a button on the radio attached to her chest. “This is Soldier #18, codename Nezumi. Initiating the operation of securing a vital base on the marked border of UA with soldier #17, codename Center, soldier #4, codename Black, and soldier #3, codename Gekikara. Over.” “Don’t keep us waiting for too long,” Yuki joked. The corner of Jurina’s lips curled slightly, not looking at the speaker as she raised the carbine rifle. “Don’t you worry about that, Black. We’ll wrap up our observations in ten minutes.” The initiation of their mission begins. Yuki and Rena crouched down to one knee, hiding behind the natural cover. As experienced soldiers, the two knew well not to leave each other’s back exposed. Rena kept her eyes glued to path they came from, Yuki kept her eyes plastered on the village in front. The special operatives, on the other hand, quickly, but quietly, dashed away from their original position, boots hardly splashing against the wet ground. “You think we could do this in less than ten minutes?” the young Matsui asked her partner. Coming close to the right side of the village at their high elevation level, the ponytailed female gave an answer upon reaching their observational location. “Give it seven minutes.” “I like that answer better.” A smirk similar to the one the puppy had done in response to the medical combat soldier was drawn across Mayu’s lips. Then, the light conversation came to its end. Atmosphere began to grow in its intensity and weight. They cannot fail this. Although there was enough pressure in partaking this risky mission, having two well-known soldiers watch over them emphasized the no failure part. Mayu’s hand rested against her goggle, slowly and carefully searching throughout the entire village. Markers did not pop up-- well, excluding the blue markers marked on both the infantry and medic from afar. The corner of her lips curled downward. “There’s no one in our sight…” she mumbled. “Check again, Nezumi.” “Right.” The mouse used her night vision goggles to pinpoint the UA’s soldiers once more. This time, she adjusted the settings on the device. Not a single individual was still seen. They decided to move to another spot in order to clarify their observational data. Even after the two operatives shifted their scouting position twice, all it resulted was an empty village. “That’s strange… There’s no one, Center.” “You should relay the message to our Intel Team, and make sure the connection remains between the both of us.” Though there was nothing wrong with sharing their discovery with Yuki and Rena, the two special operatives needed confirmations before doing so. Unnecessary drama from a single mistake is devastating to a squad, especially when it came from the hot-headed infantry soldier. The last thing Mayu and Jurina would want to experience is another round of hollers and threats. Mayu pressed her fingers against the earpiece as Jurina detached her electronic compass. “Otabe, this is Nezumi. Careful observation had been conducted, and it yielded a result of no soldiers. Over.” A crackle emitted from their ear. Then, there was a hum from the speaker. “That’s strange… Earlier Intel scouts mentioned the appearances of soldiers… Over.” “Could they have abandoned this base from their superior’s order? Over.” “Possible. It’s also possible that they’re all asleep. Whatever it may be, you four should exercise caution. Over.” It appears that the two have no choice but to determine their next action by themselves. If the Intel Team were lost, then the four would have to improvise on the spot. Such scenario was not uncommon in war. Jurina scooted close to her best friend, showing the hologram map. Details pertaining to their location had multiple buildings raised up from the ground as blocks on the map. Other than the four members flagged as friendly allies in blue, there was nothing else. “Let’s head in first, Nezumi. Check-in and see if we’re missing anyone inside the village.” Watanabe agreed with her partner. Sometimes peeking in from the outside isn’t enough. Just like the female mentioned earlier to Yokoyama, soldiers could be sleeping at this time. Her goggles were not technologically advanced enough to see through solid barriers. Head turned towards Center, she whispered, “You lead us. I’ll be right behind you as back-up.” As someone who isn’t as strong as the puppy, it was obvious why she decided to stay right behind. Jurina didn’t seem to mind. This was their usual routine. A grin flashed at the other. No words were exchanged, but they finally made their move. Again, their boots barely created noise from their rapid traveling pace, rain gave them the advantages in this covert part of the operation. Transitioning from the left side of the premise, it took about five minutes for the duo to arrive at the front entrance. A gate stood in place. Wide open, the metallic rust showed its age as raindrops continued to slammed down on the setting. Both of their carbine rifles were raised. Suppressors attached to the long firearm, their index fingers were prepared to do its deed. Jurina and Mayu whipped their aim from left to right, slowly taking one step at a time forward. Still no sign of trouble. It looks like they were all clear once they scouted through most of the center pathway. Through every nick and corner, not a single soul was in sight. Mayu lowered her rifle and pressed a finger to her earpiece. “Black, Gekikara,” the mouse reported in. “We need you both to meet up with us by the village’s entrance. Over.” “Roger that, Nezumi. Over.” Another five minutes shuffled by till they were able to regroup. Jurina, who still kept her guard up, nodded her head upon seeing the experienced duo. “I thought this would only take ten minutes,” Yuki lightly joked, finger pointed at a nonexistent watch on her wrist. “It’s been much longer than that.” A chuckle came from Mayu’s direction as she took off the night vision goggle, allowing it to dangle from her neck. “We got something strange going on, so we had to confirm it.” “Strange?” “No enemies are in sight.” It was very strange for the operatives, and Yuki has the same opinion. A vital base for the UA… What could possibly lead the guards to abandon their posts? If they lost this place, then it would be a huge lost to their side. The raven-haired female cupped her chin, humming softly under her breath. “I see… We should take control of the village then. Mark it as our second base at the UA by setting up the communication line and call in our troops… After the rain stops, of course--” A few gunshots in rapid succession rang into the silent night. It was nearby, startling both Jurina and Mayu. They whipped their head towards the source. Yuki looks unfazed as the older Matsui’s firearm pointed at the young Matsui’s direction. From afar, it was aimed at her comrade. In reality, an enemy soldier from behind just had her chest riddled with bullets. She staggered backward, hands dropping the machine gun and, in a few seconds, dropped down to both knees. All of the weight fell upon the lifeless figure, brown eyes wide open and gazing at the murderer. “Looks like you both failed to do your duty,” the infantry soldier mumbled, pointing the tip of her submachine gun at another direction. Sharp eyes piercing at the two, she spat, “I thought they called you two the best rookie in our base.” Sound of militarized vehicles came through the front entrance. Yuki shifted her gaze over to where the heavy duty tires rumbled through the moist dirt. Both of her eyebrows furrowed. “Gekikara, listen, enemy soldiers could’ve just arrived without their knowledge--” “There are no excuses out in war, Black, no matter how legitimate it is.” Although Mayu and Jurina wished to argue back at the person they used to look up to, now was not the time. Just as Rena finished speaking, even more popped up in their range of sight. How in the world were they able to hide so cleverly in this setting? Soldiers who were dedicated in scouting should’ve been able to pick up clues and hints of their presence. Whatever techniques they utilized, it certainly fooled the group into thinking they were in for a clean mission. It’s no wonder why Aki-P placed the responsibility of this task to them. Otherwise, rookies who had close to zero experiences could’ve completed it in their sleep. Everyone went into their proper positions. Despite the fact that this is their first time working together as a team, great minds think alike. Their formations was near perfect. The level of offensive and defensive abilities was at its peak. Infantry soldier at the frontline, two special operative soldier focused on the sides, combat medic at the back for support. If they were unstoppable as separate duo, then they were impossible to stop with combined forces. If there was a perfect team, they were the definition of what perfection means. Smoke came bellowing out of their firearms, recoils apparent with every single shot. Screams of military men and women echoed into the wet night. Bodies were heard slapping against the moist ground beneath their feet. Blood splattered onto the four Japanese members. Scratches from passing bullets, minor bruises from being smacked by their foes’ physical assault… Nothing they couldn’t handle as they covered each other’s back. Bloodshed is an inevitable fate for warriors in conflict. It was either them or their enemies. “Watch out, Center!” Jurina made the mistake of being far too focused on a group of wildly firing soldiers, not noticing one from the corner of her vision breaking through with a machete. Mayu did not hesitate to retract her attention from her role and aimed the carbine rifle towards the sprinting fighter. A single trigger was all it took to take him down. His figure immediately flung forward from being struck by the leg. As his face sunk down onto the dirty puddle, the machete in his grasp missed the young Matsui by an inch. Had it been any closer, it would’ve chopped off her hand. Jurina slightly lowered her weapons, head turned to her partner. “Thanks, Nezumi. I owe you one.” “Don’t say that just yet. You might just owe me another one.” As she said that, another bullet whizzed into the air and hit one more target that neared Jurina. How embarrassing for the soldier. She needed to get her game on if she doesn’t want to become the mouse’s slave. Softly clicking her tongue, the short-haired female diverted her attention back to the battlefield. Hand reached into one of her pouches, she dropped the empty ammunition case and slammed in a new one. Eventually, Rena and Yuki broke off from the special operative soldiers, now going all-out against their foes. Jurina and Mayu could hold off enemy soldiers, but it didn’t mean they did well with overwhelming numbers by themselves. Thus, the other duo’s role came to light. They weren’t called a monster for no reason at base. Veterans who could even shake Aki-P’s core, gun shells popped out of their weapons as the UA’s members dropped like flies. The gunfight ensued for a long period of time. They may be strong, but fatigue soon seeped into their body. To their luck, no one was left standing. Well, just one more in front of Rena. An individual much shorter than the rest of the soldiers they slaughtered by bullets. The older Matsui squinted her eyes, taking a step forward in attempt to identity who it was. It was a child. Ah… It is a child. A young, bald boy at that. Drenched in the rain with no shirt, this youngster held a combat knife… and he looks ready to kill based on his posture. Rena needed to use something to tranquilize the kid. However, as an infantry soldier, she carried nothing remotely close to knocking him out without harm. The child didn’t wait for the older woman to finish contemplating. Blade raised, he dashed forward with a battlecry. Matsui Rena was unable to dodge his fast and precise movement. The tip of the dagger sunk into her abdomen. Its brown, wooden hilt slammed against the surface of the protective wear. Bulletproof vest and combat dress may have prevented bullets, but the length of the sharp weapon dug deep and through the thick material. Blood spurted out from Rena’s bottom lip when she bit back her cry, gun dropped to the ground. “Gekikara!” Yuki screamed as she raised her firearm. The combat rifle aimed at the assaulter, she readied her finger on the trigger. Right when she was going to make the bullets fly, her eyes widen at the sight. “A… A child?” She couldn’t do it. The combat medic could not do it. No matter how much she needed to pull back the trigger, her index finger disobeyed her order. Yuki became confused. Should she shoot the little boy, who was out to harm her partner? Or should she withhold her fire, her morality pulling her back from bringing harm to children? Experiences in the medical field forced this soldier to rethink her actions. The firearm, however, was still raised and pointed at the tiny culprit. If it’s for the sake of saving Rena, then she has no choice but to overcome her emotional turmoil and shoot that kid. “Don’t shoot him, Black!” That outburst from her comrade-in-arm startled Yuki. Rena bit the bottom of her lip, ignoring the blood that seeped out from the corner. “Please, don’t shoot him…” Despite her words, there was the sound of a gunshot. Rena widen her eyes. Time began to progress slowly. She barely turned her head, gaze shifting towards the small figure by her side. His body jerked backward from the bullet slamming into his exposed chest. He seems surprised too. Then, another gunshot-- No, it wasn’t just another. Plenty of gunshots rang into the air. Rain pouring down onto the land concealed the metallic barrels that dropped into the muddy ground. The boy, who had just stabbed the older Matsui, now flopped backward. There were no further movement from him. A dagger still stuck within her side, the infantry soldier did not hide her surprise from the turn of event. She whipped her head towards her partner’s direction. Yes, Yuki is still keeping her rifle in the air. However, there wasn’t a single trace of smoke coming out of her weapon. It came from Matsui Jurina, who was standing by with her now-wielded Colt Model Revolver in one hand. Just the sight of who murdered the child infuriated the older woman. “Center, what the Hell do you think you’re doing!?” she snarled once Jurina ran up to her. She’s had enough of the older Matsui berating her. A bloody hand pointed at Rena, eyes darkening in pure fury. “Saving your ass, that’s what!” “You just shot a child!” “Impossible! It was a soldier--” Without warning, Rena roughly grabbed the younger Matsui’s face. She forced Jurina to look at the deceased figure. “Open your eyes, young one,” she snarled. “You just murdered a kid.” It took a few seconds to adjust her eyes in the dark. Then, the blood-stained female widen her eyes. “I…” A child. It was a young, Asian child. A boy, no older than 11-years-old, lay in a puddle of his own blood. His eyes were glazed over and stared at the special operative’s. Mouth was opened in a failed attempt to scream from the pain bullets sprayed upon his small, frail figure. Holes littered his exposed, upper body. It was a gruesome sight that flipped her stomach upside-down. Rena tore her grip away from the soldier’s face as she looked down upon the female. The young girl felt her knees give away as she dropped her carbine rifle. “No…” Jurina whispered. “It can’t be… I… I didn’t mean to kill him, Gekikara--” “I knew we would never get along, Center,” she snarled. Rena knew all along. There was potential in the younger Matsui, but she never liked the gifted soldier. This situation just confirmed it. Even worse, it sprouted a newfound emotion towards the special operative: Hatred.
