Posted originally on the Archive_of_Our_Own at https://archiveofourown.org/
works/10526769.
  Rating:
      Explicit
  Archive Warning:
      Underage
  Category:
      Multi
  Fandom:
      IS:_Infinite_Stratos
  Stats:
      Published: 2017-04-02 Chapters: 2/2 Words: 15430
****** Senjou no Kodoku na Shounen Gaiden ******
by Gespenst5
Summary
     Sidestories for the Infinite Stratos fanfic Senjou no Kodoku na
     Shounen. Link is here: https://www.fanfiction.net/s/9234446/1/Senjou-
     no-Kodoku-na-Shounen
***** Chapter 1 *****
Chapter Notes
     A/N: If anyone wants to beta read this one, please contact me.
     Disclaimer: Again, I do not own any of the characters in Infinite
     Stratos.
See the end of the chapter for more notes
Senjou no Kodoku na Shounen Gaiden
(The Lone Boy of the Battlefield Side Story)
Chapter 1: Foreword
As the title indicates, these chapters are basically side stories that happen
at various points during the duration of my Infinite Stratos fanfic Senjou no
Kodoku na Shounen. Mostly, these chapters are set in-between chapters of the
original series as to not distract from the main fanfic series. If there be
something mentioned in the main fanfic series, it will be depicted here because
depicting it in the main fanfic series will be distracting from the flow of the
main fanfic series. Aside from the conflict of the main fanfic series, where
Ichika Orimura, calling himself “Daremo Nomura” in combating Phantom Task,
these chapters shows what else goes on in the universe of the main series, with
various other characters, both from the main fanfic series and those introduced
here, will have their own stories to be explored. Certain chapters in this
series will also star Ichika, but concern events mentioned in the main fanfic
series, that, aren't explicitly depicted in the main fanfic series itself.
Rating
Unlike the main fanfic series, this will be MA-rated because this is not
Fanfiction.net, I can go for the MA rating here in Archive of my Own. That way,
explicit sex scenes and anything beyond the M rating's jurisdiction will be
used here.
Story/Canon
Timeline from the main series:
*Volume 1 – 2 (light novel)/Episodes 1 – 8 (anime) – June
*Volume 3 (light novel)/Episodes 9 – 12 (anime) – July (Evident with Houki's
bithday being July 7)
*Volume 4 (light novel)/OVA (anime) – August
*Volumes 5 – 7 of the light novel probably happen across September to October,
given Ichika's birthday being on September 27.
As explained above, these chapters take place within the main series.
Characters
As stated before, plenty of characters with their own stories will be shown
here.
Technology and combat
Same as the main fanfic series, combat is mainly done with Kinzoku Hoheis, but
combined arms tactics are still a necessity. As to how the combat is depicted,
it will depend on the story in question.
Languages/Dialects
Likewise in the main fanfic series, various languages will be used.
Final Words
Hope that's that, and I hope you enjoy my fic.
Chapter End Notes
     A/N:
     Chapter 1 will come after this.
***** The Korean Front *****
Chapter Summary
     Feeling bored on Golden Week, Ichika Ormura volunteers to guard the
     newly opened Japanese embassy to South Korea. However, it's location
     invites an attack by North Korean forces
Chapter Notes
     A/N: If anyone wants to beta read this one, please contact me.
     Disclaimer: Again, I do not own any of the characters in Infinite
     Stratos.
See the end of the chapter for more notes
April 29, 2017
Alone in his apartment, Ichika Orimura lays on the floor. He is full of
confusion and sadness.
He then says in his mind, “What do I do for Golden Week. Fred and the others
are having the time of their lives, and Mikuni-chan to leave for a while
because of family matters.”
After a five-second pause, Ichika gets up and says, “You know, I should just
make the best out of this Golden Week.”
Ichika's idea, however, isn't a good way to celebrate Golden Week, to say the
least. What no one, other than Mikuni, knows, is that because of the
enhancements he acquired for his body while in Asgard Incorporated, he feels
boredom if he's not fighting.
As he leaves the apartment, Ichika goes to his SLR, then changes his mind. “You
know what? I'll just walk today. I could use the exercise.”
After wandering around across Osaka, Ichika stops near a shrine, however,
looking around, he realizes he's at the Shinonono Shrine, where he and his
older sister, Chifuyu, lived in for a while when their parents, Wilhelm von
Mielke and Akiko Orimura, had to leave because of Phantom Task.
He suddenly wandered into a shrine. The shrine in question hosts an air of
familiarity for him. The shrine in question is the Shinonono Shrine, operated
by the family of his childhood friend Houki Shinonono, whom he left behind as
well.
Ichika asks, “What am I even doing here?”
He then remembers something from a year before.
At Shinonono Shrine, Ichika, who still had black hair, no beard, and still
resembled a teenage male, is with Laura Bodewig. However, behind them is Houki,
who asks, “I'm glad you think that, but… were you two alone all day?”
Surprised, Ichika asks, “Houki?”
Laura, whose surprise is mild compared to Ichika, asks, “Why are you working
here? Have you retired as an IS pilot?”
Houki, whose anger is rising by the tone of her voice, answers, “This is
Shinonono Shrine, my parent's home.”
With her anger already evident, she asks, “Answer the question! Were you two
together all day today?”
Unfazed with Houki's question asked under anger, Laura replies, “Yes, we were.”
Angered further, Houki asks, “What? What is the meaning of this?”
Still unimpressed by Houki's pseudo-threats, Laura asks, 'What's wrong with a
married couple spending time together?”
Her mind already passed plain anger, Houki asks, “You're still saying 'married
couple' again?”
As the flashback ends when Houki shouts “Kisama,”
Back in the present, Ichika asks to himself, “I was naive back then, wasn't I?”
Ichika begins to leave Shinonono Shrine. Unbeknownst to him, someone coming out
of the shrine sees him.
While wandering across Osaka, Ichika sees what appears to be a poster. The
poster is attached to a streetlight.
Grabbing it, he asks, “What's this?”
The poster is that of a Nihon Gaigoku-gun soldier, with his appearance blurred
to avoid problems with the one whom the soldier on the poster is based on. He
points with his right index at whoever picks up the poster. On top of the
poster is “We Need You”. At the bottom of the poster is the words “For Korea.”
After looking at the poster for a few seconds, Ichika says, “That's right, the
new Embassy to South Korea is finished. This is just what I need to relieve my
boredom this Golden Week.”
He looks further to find the address of the recruitment station. He finds it in
the lower-right section of the poster. Afterwards, Ichika rushes to the
address.
The recruitment station is in the shopping center named “Resonance”, which
Ichika and Charlotte Dunois went to prior to last year's IS Academy Special
School Trip Practical Lessons. The recruitment station is near the clothes shop
Ichika and Charlotte had been caught by both Chifuyu and Maya Yamada.
Realizing where he is, Ichika asks, “Why did it have to be here?”
As to why he asked that question to himself, Ichika was caught by Maya and
Chifuyu in Resonance. Prior to the Special School Trip Practical Lessons,
Ichika, and Charlotte went to the clothes shop near the recruitment station to
purchase swimwear. When they heard Chifuyu and Maya coming, both Ichika and
Charlotte hid in the changing booth. Chifuyu and Maya eventually caught them.
After looking around, he says, “Found it.”
He rushes to the shop that says, “Nihon Gaigoku-gun Recruitment Station.”
Rushing inside, Ichika is disappointed by the lack of any more patriotic men
volunteering. Other than Ichika, only two Nihon Gaigoku-gun soldiers were
there.
One soldier, who is wearing the uniform, but nothing for the head, is a male
Syrian Arab. The other soldier, who is Chinese of Bouyei descent, also in
uniform, but wearing the TK (Tetsukabuto)-01 combat helmet that is a
combination of a Stahlhelm and a Ssh-40 helmet worn by Soviet Red Army soldiers
during the Second World War. Both have MP-443 “Grach” semi-automatic pistols,
which are the standard sidearms of the Nihon Gaigoku-gun, regardless of rank,
holstered. The Bouyei Chinese Nihon Gaigoku-gun soldier is also equipped with
an AKS-74U.
Seeing Ichika, both soldiers are surprised Ichika is there, with the Syrian
asking, “You're Technical Sergeant Daremo Nomura, the one who provided the
information about Phantom Task. What are you doing here?”
Ichika answers, “I'm here to enlist for the newly-built Embassy in South
Korea.”
The Bouyei Chinese Nihon Gaigoku-gun soldier answers, “What on Earth for? Sure
we're not getting many recruits, but it's Golden Week.”
Ichika says, “I felt bored, and also, you two are working here. What, you two
got into trouble?”
Embarrassed, the Syrian says, “You do have a point.”
He then gives Ichika enlistment papers. As he finds a chair to sit on, Ichika
begins signing.
April 30, 2017
As Ichika arrives at the Port of Osaka in Konohana, one of the wards of Osaka,
all he has is a duffel bag, as he had brought little for the journey. The ship
bound for South Korea was an Otohime-class landing boat.
The ship was for those who volunteered to guard the Embassy in South Korea.
Those boarding the ship are three dozen people. Some, including Ichika, are
volunteers. However, most are guarded by two men already armed.
After the assassination of previous Prime Minister Ichirou Sawamura, his eldest
son Issei was made Prime Minister. His first three acts were to declare himself
“Shougun”, a position that was abolished in 1867, offer more power to the
Emperor, making Japan an absolute monarchy again, and establish the Nihon
Gaigoku-gun, with his sister Misa as its Supreme Commander.
Following its formation, the Nihon Gaigoku-gun, who were mostly migrants that
Japan started allowing following the Reconstruction Party's immigration
reforms, began a purge of the government and the Nihon Jietai due to their
connection with the Phantom Task, the assassins of Ichirou. Those arrested by
the Nihon Gaigoku-gun were taken to “re-education facilities”, which are mental
asylums where inmates were re-educated. Due to how guarded they are, these
mental asylums were labeled “concentration camps”, like those built across
Nazi-dominated Europe throughout the Second World War.
At 6:00 AM, the ship begins to depart, with everyone aboard. It is bound for
the port city of Sokcho, found on South Korea's eastern coastline. From there,
trucks are to take the contingent to the Embassy itself.
On board the ship, Ichika looks at his picture Mikuni, saying as he looks,
“Mikuni-chan, I'm sorry.”
Suddenly, as soon as he stops looking at that picture of Mikuni, he hears
someone asking, “Is the space beside you not taken?”
Curious as to who's asking, Ichika sees a woman standing before him. The woman,
appearing to be in early twenties, has blonde hair, but her skin and eye color
would indicate she is not fully Caucasian, but presumably half-Japanese.
Ichika says, “Oh, uh… sure.”
The woman says, “Thanks.”
The woman then sits beside Ichika, with the latter asking, “Who are you
anyways?”
The woman answers, “Cäcilia Runge. Migrated to Japan from Germany a year ago. I
volunteered for the Nihon Gaigoku-gun out of boredom.”
Ichika says, “Same here.”
Taking a pause after what he said due to Cäcilia's good Japanese, which he
compliments by saying, “You speak good Japanese.”
Cäcilia says, “My mother is Japanese, and my father is German.”
Ichika then says, “I see. Let's keep each others' backs out there.”
Cäcilia says, “Got i- Wait a minute, aren't you Gijutsu Gunsou Nomura Daremo?”
Ichika says, “Yes.”
Cäcilia asks, “What are you doing here?”
Ichika answers, “As I said, I got bored.”
Cäcilia says, “I see.”
Ichika then says in his mind, “Why does talking with this person feel familiar?
It's as if I'm talking to Chifuyu-nee. Is this punishment for me leaving IS
Academy?”
After eight hours, the ship containing the Nihon Gaigoku-gun contingent to
reinforce the Japanese Embassy in South Korea arrives at Sokcho. As the ship
stops and anchor, all the Nihon Gaigoku-gun soldiers begin exiting the ship.
Going first are the re-education facility inmates.
Looking at them, Cäcilia asks, “They're young, yet they're treated like they
have no rights at all.”
Ichika answers, “Most of them are Otaku terrorists.”
Cäcilia asks, “Otaku terrorists?”
Ichika replies, “The enemies of the state who are the reason those schools in
the Imperial Capital started sexual slavery rings. The sexual slavery rings'
profits go to the staff of those schools, the schools donate the money to
certain government officials, and the government officials, in turn, donate
money to those terrorists. Why do we those call them 'terrorists?' Because they
seem to be dangerously passionate about what they like. They end up harming
innocent people by bombings because the government will clamp down on record
companies if something happens to singers if they issue of them dating is
brought up. Tell me, is it considered a right to start terrorism over that?”
Cäcilia gives no answer. The reason is that although it was wrong for Japan to
have turned pseudo-Fascist, it's also wrong for Otaku to go around and resort
to terrorism.
A voice on the ship's PA system says, “Batch 2, begin exiting from the ship.”
Ichika says, “That's us.”
Both Ichika and Cäcilia stand up, grab their things, and begin leaving the
ship.
As everyone exits the ship, the contingent begins boarding trucks bound for the
Japanese Embassy. After all the trucks have been loaded, they leave for the
Japanese Embassy.
After three hours the trucks arrive at the Japanese Embassy in South Korea,
located near the city of Goseong. The area in question is nowhere near any
urbanized areas, which helps. However, the construction and choice of location
have further strained relations between Japan and South Korea.
When the Reconstruction Party won the April 2016 elections, it's head and Prime
Minister, Ichirou Sawamura, as one of his first acts as Prime Minister, was to
make amends with its East Asian neighbors for how Japan had behaved since the
beginning of the 20th Century. When he visited China on December 1, 2016, the
city he visited is Nanjing, where he knelt before the Nanjing Massacre Memorial
Hall, which was built to commemorate the massacre in the city committed by
Japanese troops. It was viewed as a sign of apology to finally mend relations
between both countries.
Ichirou had planned to go to South Korea to make a similar apology for their
messy past but died on Christmas Day. Due to this, Japan needed new foreign
offices that were fortified. South Korea's was no exception, which angered the
government in Seoul further. Despite Ichirou's eldest son, current Prime
Minister Issei's statement that Tokyo means no harm, Seoul isn't impressed.
What doesn't help is the location, due to the embassy overlooking the border
between North Korea and South Korea. The former have intentions to make war
with Japan, and the embassy made for a good excuse. Due to this, only the Nihon
Gaigoku-gun defend the embassy.
The embassy is basically a fortress. It comprises of four towers connected by
walls, with the standard offices located inside. The complex itself is defended
by artillery and anti-aircraft guns.
Outside the embassy are two trench lines that surround it. For this reason,
these trench lines are called “trench rings”. Both of them are five kilometers
apart, with the inner trench ring a kilometer away from the embassy's walls.
Rather than gates, the embassy's entrances are drawbridges similar to those
used in Western European castles. The trench rings are like moats, therefore,
the drawbridges cross both.
After everyone in the contingent has arrived at the embassy, they are gathered
in the embassy's center.
Everyone hears, “Attention!”
Suddenly, everyone is quiet. Approaching are two men. One is in a business
suit, and the other is a Nihon Gaigoku-gun soldier.
Both men then stop. The man in the business suit approaches a lectern, and as
he stops, he says, “I am Shuuichi Namikawa. The Japanese Ambassador to the
Republic of Korea. I may be in charge of this foreign office, but your orders
will come from this man.”
As Shuuchi directs the attention of the contingent to the Nihon Gaigoku-gun
officer, he leaves as the officer takes the lectern.
The officer then says, “I am Colonel Jun Matsuda. I have been appointed to
command this foreign office. By extension, that refers to you. We will begin
preparations for the North Koreans have begun preparing for an offensive.”
Everyone is in this disbelief over what Jun said. The words “North Korea” and
“offensive” in the same sentence stun them. Those who volunteered assumed that
guarding the Embassy for the duration of Golden Week would for them just be
something to relieve boredom. However, hearing that they will have to fight has
them worried and start talking.
Jun shouts, “QUIET!”
Everyone stops to talking to each and proceeds to listen to Jun further. Peace
and order are restored.
Jun continues by saying, “We are not sure yet. What we only know is them
preparing for an offensive. As to how they will come here, that will be a
different matter, because it's too risky to get eyes and ears there, though be
prepared, because they will do anything as to fight us and us only. They don't
intend to make war with both South Korea and the United States. Tomorrow, we'll
begin laying mines outside the outer trench ring. For now, get yourselves
accommodated for tonight. To your quarters.”
After that, the contingent is to go to their quarters. However, to prevent any
form of sexual misconduct, which won't be a “misconduct” unless consent is
provided, the male Nihon Gaigoku-gun soldiers are to have their own quarters
separated from the females. The re-education facility inmates are no exception.
As May comes, the contingent has been ordered to plant mines before the outer
trench ring. The mines are Hinezumi underground mines. They are detonated by
remote control. After all the mines are planted, the troops are to detonate
them as the North Korean forces begin advancing.
Kakizaki Zaibatsu mass-produced these mines, which were an invention of Liao
Yuan's. These mines can eliminate an entire battalion once detonated. They are
the effect of Japan leaving the Ottawa Treaty. This, along with the formation
of the Nihon Gaigoku-gun as a result of Ichirou Sawamura's death and the
resulting purges that they undertook have the rest of the world wary of Japan
ever since the Reconstruction Party's takeover.
Japanese Embassy Canteen
After a day of planting mines, which isn't done yet as every Hinezumi mine is
planted yet, the contingent gathered here for their meal. However, the re-
education facility inmates are to eat separately from the thirty-six
volunteers.
In the same table are both Ichika and Cäcilia are having their meals. Ichika's
meal is that of Bratwurst with baked potato and lettuce dipped in French
dressing. Cäcilia's meal is that of Chicken Jaegerschnitzel with French fries
and broccoli.
After the two have said their prayers, they begin eating. However, they hear
commotion in the canteen.
Ichika then stands up, with Cäcilia asking, “What are you doing?”
Ichika answers, “I'm going to see what's happening.”
He then finds out that the noise came from one of the tables occupied by the
concentration camp inmates. The table is occupied by five inmates. The inmates
consist of three men and two women. All of them are teenagers, presumably
rebels who surrendered and ended up imprisoned in the re-education facilities.
As Ichika approaches, he sees one female prisoner's food spilled on the floor
and asks, “What happened here?”
One male prisoner with black hair answers, “Ishida grabbed and dropped
Kurosawa's food.”
The female identified as Kurosawa has brown hair and brown eyes. She is in
despair that she cannot eat since her food is on the floor.
Ichika then gives Kurosawa his food, with Kurosawa, seeing Ichika's act of
kindness, asking, “Why?”
Ichika replies, “I have yet to find out what you did to get thrown into the re-
education facilities, but eat. I can get my own meal. Come on.”
Kurosawa says, “Th… Thanks.”
There seems to be a connection between Ishida and Kurosawa. The question on why
would Ishida pick on Kurosawa is in Ichika's mind, but the atmosphere gives off
the feeling that both Kurosawa and Ishida ended up being enemies of the state
for a freedom guaranteed by the state, yet said freedom is opposed for
traditionalist reasons.
Ichika then leaves the five prisoners. He then sees what appears to be a
sergeant whose gender is male sitting in a separate table, but alone. However,
he is near the prisoners.
As Ichika arrives, he says, “You call yourself a sergeant. You should be
ashamed of what happened. I'll report this to Sawamura Taishou when this is
over.”
Ichika then leaves the sergeant. It is clear Ichika cannot look at him further
because of how the sergeant isn't handling the situation.
Later, after dinner, Ichika began to wander across the embassy. He ends up in
front of Ambassador Shuuichi Namikawa' office.
As Ichika knocks, Shuuichi asks, “Who is it?”
Ichika answers, “Nomura Daremo Gijutsu Gunsou. Permission to come in?”
Surprised, Shuuichi answers, “Sure.”
Ichika opens the door and proceeds into Shuuichi's office, with Shuuichi
asking, “What would the man who gave the information about Phantom Task be
doing here in South Korea?”
Ichika answers, “I felt bored this Golden Week, so I volunteered.”
Shuuichi asks, “Then what brings you to my office?”
Ichika answers, “As a Nihon Gaigoku-gun Dai-Ichi Jouhou Daitai member, I can
ask this: May I have the files of the re-education facility inmates serving as
a penal unit here?”
Surprised, Shuuichi asks, “Why on Earth would you ask for such a thing?”
Ichika answers, “Because of what happened tonight in the canteen. It seems
you're not willing to care for those inmates.”
Shuuichi smugly asks, “Why should I? They're criminals.”
Ichika answers, “You don't give them enough credit. They're here to redeem
themselves, aren't they? Don't fulfill my request, and I'll report you to
Sawamura Taishou of your lack of cooperation.”
Realizing what will happen, Shuuichi says, “Here are all of them, especially
those who aren't criminals.”
He points to what appear to be files stacked together beside him. Said files
appear to be those not just for the inmates, but also for everyone in the
contingent.”
As Ichika grabs them, he says, “Thank you.”
He then leaves. However, as he leaves Shuuichi's office, Ichika sees Cäcilia
standing along the corridor, with Ichika quietly surprised.
Cäcilia asks, “What did you need from him?”
Ichika answers, “None of your business.”
Cäcilia answers, “Whatever.”
Both Ichika and Cäcilia begin walking back to the quarters.
Ichika then says, “We best separate.”
Cäcilia says, “Agreed. It's not like I'm giving consent.”
Ichika's blushes over what Cäcilia had said. More importantly, he feels Cäcilia
isn't a stranger.
In his mind, Ichika says, “Why does the way Cäcilia talk seem familiar? It
feels like I had this conversation before.”
As the two reach the soldiers' quarters, they separate, with Cäcilia saying,
“Good night.”
Ichika says, “You too.”
As Ichika comes back into the men's quarters, he says, “It really feels
familiar talking to her.”
Later, in his bed, Ichika has gone through the files of everyone in the
contingent. He then started with the inmates. Currently, he is reading those
within the envelope “K”, which pertains to those whose surnames start with the
letter “K”.
Ichika then says, “Where is i- Found it.”
He appears to have found the file for Kurosawa. The file says her full name,
which is “Kurosawa Nao.”
After reading the rest of her file, Ichika then decides to put it down, but as
he begins to sleep, he is suddenly given the idea of trying to look into
Cäcilia's profile.
Ichika says, “This could be it. I can find out who Cäcilia-san really is. No
regrets, I'm a soldier that does intelligence work.”
He then grabs a file with the letter “R”. He looks into the file, and as he
finds Cäcilia's, he is surprised by what he has read.
May 2, 2017
Japanese Embassy to the Republic of Korea, Ambassador Shuuichi Namikawa's
office.
While Shuuichi is talking with Jun, suddenly a knock is heard at the door. This
is unusual, as the morning had started.
Curious, Jun asks, “Who is it?”
A tired voice says, “It's Nomura Gunsou, sir.”
Both are surprised that Ichika would see them at this time of day. Regardless,
Jun says, “You may come in.”
Ichika opens the door and lets himself in. He closes the door after doing so.
Shuuichi asks, “What is it now? I already-”
Ichika then says, “That's just it. I found out something in the files.”
Jun asks, “What might it be, boy?”
Ichika answers, “It's about Cäcilia Runge. Can I please contact Sawamura
Taishou?”
Shuuichi asks, “What on Earth for, and how is it related to Runge Nitouhei
anyways?”
Ichika answers, “You'll know.”
Jun says, “Very well.”
Ichika says, “Then I'll take this call outside.”
After leaving Shuuichi's office, Ichika then accesses his communicator. After
accessing Misa's channel, he then hears Misa's voice, asking, “Nomura, what's
the meaning of this? Why are you in South Korea?”
Ichika answers, “I apologize, Sawamura Taishou. I felt bored.”
Misa says, “Never mind that. Why did you call?”
Ichika asks, “Would you know if there's someone from Germany named Cäcilia
Runge who applied for citizenship a year prior?”
Misa asks, “Why do you ask this?”
Ichika answers, “I read her enlistment file. I'll have it scanned right now
because I get the feeling she faked her information. For what reason, and her
identity, I don't know, but I have one guess.”
Misa says, “Very well. Please show me.”
Ichika then uses the communicator to scan Cäcilia's file. It only took five
seconds to scan the file.
Afterwards, Misa says, “I got it.”
After reading it, she says, “No doubt about it. Her information comes off
suspicious. I'll have her investigated. You know, I can arrange for you to
leave.”
Ichika says, “Thank you, but no thank you.”
Misa then says, “I should have known you'd say that. Do I tell Kakizaki Gochou
that you're here?”
Hearing Misa's question concerning Mikuni shocks Ichika. Having Mikuni find out
that he's in South Korea is the last thing that should happen for him.
As a result, he resumes his zero nonsense tone and says, “I'd rather not.
Things here in South Korea will be ugly once all of the Hinezumi mines have
been planted. I don't want Mikuni-chan to hear of why I'm here, much less her
following me here. It will end badly.”
Misa then says, “I can tell. I've heard that the North Koreans have begun to
mobilize at least one regiment. You're only one hundred there. They may as well
charge right you right now. One last time, are you sure you don't want to
leave?”
Ichika says, “I'm sure.”
Misa says, “Very well. Godspeed.”
As the transmission ends, Ichika returns to Shuuichi's office, with Shuuichi
asking, “So? What did Sawamura Taishou say?”
Ichika asks, “She'll have Runge Nitouhei investigated. I best go the canteen
for breakfast. We'll resume mine laying at oh nine thirty (9:30 AM/09:30).”
As Ichika salutes Jun and Shuuichi, he leaves the office.
At the canteen, he sees Professor Yuan, with Ichika asking, “Professor, is that
you?”
Hearing, then seeing Ichika, the professor asks, “What are you doing here?”
Ichika says, “Got bored, so I decided to enlist here.”
The professor says, “Got bored too and decided to see how the Hinezumis, which
I invented, worked.”
Ichika asks, “Wait, you invented the Hinezumi?”
The professor replies, “Indeed, I did.”
Ichika then says, “In any case, it was nice seeing you. I have to get my
breakfast now.”
The professor says, “I see. I'll be at a makeshift lab I have here. Fuu's here
too at the infirmary.”
Ichika asks, “You're wife's here too?”
The professor replies, “Yes.”
Ichika then says, “I best be going now.”
The professor says, “Got it. See you once we win.”
After Ichika had gotten his breakfast, which is Ciabatta bread with butter and
a bowl of Miso soup beside it, he decides to go to the table where Nao Kurosawa
and her fellow inmates are seated.
As he arrives at the table, he asks, “May I sit here, please?”
The same prisoner who told Ichika yesterday as to what happened to Nao says,
“Sure.”
Ichika then says, “Thanks.”
As Ichika is seated, he begins his meal. Cäcilia, seeing Ichika eat with the
inmates, asks, “What is he doing?”
As she arrives, Cäcilia then asks, “May I join you?”
Turning his attention to Cäcilia, Ichika says, “Sure.”
As Cäcilia sits down, a male prisoner, whose brown hair comes off reddish,
begrudgingly gives her space. He isn't saying it, but his actions loudly say
that he doesn't appreciate the company.
Ichika notices this, and says, “You don't have to hide it from me. I didn't
mean to invade your privacy. In fact, I'll be frank with you five, I read your
files last night, and I can see why you act this way. You all weren't really
with the rebels, weren't you?”
The prisoners don't give their answer. They appear not to appreciate Ichika's
concern for them.
Ichika says, “Regardless, if any of you need help, just ask. You don't have to
be afraid.”
Suddenly, the prisoner who allowed Ichika into the table asks, “Why are
suddenly trying to be our savior?”
Ichika answers, “I'll admit, I don't know. I read your files, but I'm willing
to listen to what you people have to say. I know your names, but it's much
better to hear them from you.”
Realizing that, unlike the Nihon Gaigoku-gun soldiers they are familiar with,
the prisoners begin to stop being harsh with Ichika and start saying their
names, with the male prisoner who let Ichika with them saying, “I'm Fuyutsuki
Daisuke.”
Another male prisoner with blueish black hair says, “Akatsuki Hiroki.”
The prisoner who begrudgingly let Cäcilia sit beside him says, “Kaji Osamu.”
Ishida, the female inmate who threw Nao's food into the floor the previous day
says her full name, which is “Ishida Mayumi.”
Nao then says, “Kurosawa Nao.”
Ichika then points to Cäcilia and says, “And she's Cäcilia Runge, who migrated
to Japan from Germany last year.”
He then says, “Now that that's settled, I should remind you that, you are still
convicts. However, if you don't misbehave like what happened yesterday, and if
we all survive this, we can go home, and I can have you set free.”
Suddenly, Ichika putting “free” in his sentence has the five come off lively,
with Hiroki asking, “You'll get us free?”
Ichika says, “Sure. I'll put a word out with Sawamura Taishou.”
After breakfast, the contingent resumed planting Hinezumis. During this,
various personalities of the news have come to see what is going on. For
publicity reasons, soldiers are allowed to be interviewed. The professor, who's
also there to inspect the mine laying, is interviewed himself.
Ichika, Cäcilia, and the five prisoners they befriended are no exception. While
they're wearing are the standard Nihon Gaigoku-gun uniforms, with their
headgear being the TK-01 combat helmets, they are being interviewed by one
Caitlin Thompson of American National Television News.
Thompson is a woman in her early thirties, with brown hair and blue eyes. She
is wearing a white shirt, beige vest, and a pair of pants colored brown. She is
carrying what appears to be a microphone, however, this microphone is battery
powered, and it delivers what sounds it receives to a satellite, which is then
transmitted to the station.
Caitlin then asks, “So, Daremo Nomura, why would you, the man who provided
information about the elusive Phantom Task organization, volunteer out here
rather than be at comfort in Japan?”
Ichika then says, in impeccably good English, “It's because I felt bored. You
see, I may have earned a lot of money from my work in the Japanese Foreign
Forces and as a Band of Eight member, but-”
At the same time, those watching the news broadcast are the students of IS
Academy in its cafeteria. Among those watching are the women Ichika left behind
when he faked his death; Houki Shinonono, Cecilia Alcott, Lingyin Huang,
Charlotte Dunois, Laura Bodewig, and the Sarashiki sisters, Tatenashi, and
Kanzashi.
Looking at Ichika as he is being interviewed, Cecilia asks, “Say, does anyone
notice that Daremo Nomura looks familiar?”
Tatenashi answers, “He does, doesn't he?”
Tatenashi observes with a certain amount of concern. If seen, she will be
questioned about it, considering that she might have figured out the
resemblance between “Daremo” and Ichika. It will be troublesome if the other
women did figure out what she knows because if she were to loudly guess that
Daremo is Ichika, it will be of great concern due to the fact that, back when
Ichika studied in IS Academy, the women would resort to acts of violence
whenever Ichika was concerned.
Back in South Korea, Ichika gives an answer to a question Caitlin asked, which
is, “While they are criminals, I believe in the reason they're here right now,
which is to redeem themselves. You see, that's how we distinguish ourselves
from the secret police agencies of the past. If they are willing to atone for
being enemies of the state, all they have to do swear allegiance to the Emperor
again.”
Caitlin then says, “I see.”
May 3, 2017
After the mines were finished and the contingent had their rest, the actual
battle is about to begin. Half of the contingent occupy the outer trench ring,
and another half occupy the inner trench ring. Everyone is armed with the
Hinezumis' detonators.
The trenches are six meters in depth and five meters in width. This arrangement
is if in case the battle lasts as long as it wants to, those advancing will be
trapped once they make it, forcing them into close quarters combat.
For as to when fire is to be exchanged, there are platforms for the troops to
stand on.
In the outer trench ring are Ichika, Cäcilia, Daisuke, Hiroki, Osamu, Mayumi,
and Nao. Ichika wields a G3A3 battle rifle that is bolt-actioned, with his
Desert Eagle holstered.
Everyone else has MP-443s for sidearms, but they have different primary
weapons. Cäcilia and Osamu wield M4A1 carbines; the difference being that
Cäcilia's attachments are an ACOG sight and an M203 grenade launcher, whereas
Osamu's only has an M26 MASS. Much like Ichika, Daisuke wields a G3A3, but
unlike Ichika's, it is automatic. Nao is equipped with an AKS-74U.
Both Mayumi and Hiroki are on machine gun duty. Hiroki is manning the machine
gun, which is an Ultimax 100 light machine gun of the Mark 3 variant with a
bipod and whose ammo is contained in a drum magazine. Other than that, he has
an AKS-74U in his back, and Mayumi wields an MP7 also equipped with an ACOG
sight. She has Ultimax 100 drum magazines strapped across her body, given that
she is to load for Hiroki.
Suddenly, a portion of the area outside the outer trench ring begins to
collapse into a slope. Coming out of the improvised slope are what appear to be
five hundred North Korean soldiers charging at them.
The North Korean troops wear uniforms that have a color combination of olive
green and tan. They consist of both men and women. Their head gear varies, with
only half wearing Ssh-68 helmets.
Their weapons vary. Most wield Type 98 assault rifles, which are the North
Korean replications of the AK-74, PPS {Пистолет-пулемёт Судаева [Pistolet-
pulemyot Sudaeva (Sudaev's submachine-gun)}] and M56 submachine guns. Some
wield Dragunov sniper rifles, KS {Карабин Специальный [Karabin Spetsialniy
(Carbine Special)]}-23 shotguns, and Type 73 light machine guns. Some wielding
Type 98s, PPSs, or M56s have Type-69 rocket-propelled grenades.
Seeing the advancing North Koreans, those in the outer trench ring begin
trembling. Some have retreat in mind, either knowing or not knowing that
retreat if not ordered leads to death, either by the enemy or by their own
side.
Ichika then shouts, “Pull out the detonators. Now!”
As everyone hears Ichika shout, everyone in the outer trench ring brings out
their detonators for the Hinezumis. However, they are to not detonate the
Hinezumis.
As Ichika keeps vigilance as to when to detonate the Hinezumis, Daisuke asks,
“When are we blowing them up?”
Ichika then says, “Be patient. The mines can take out an entire battalion. We
just need to wait until they are close enough.”
As the North Koreans have at least a kilometer before they approach the
minefields, Ichika then shouts, “Take cover and detonate!”
Everyone in the outer trench ring does as Ichika told them to do. As soon as
the crouch, they press the detonators.
As the detonators are pressed, the Hinezumis begin to pop out of the ground.
This surprises the North Koreans. However, the Hinezumis will be the last thing
they see, because what follows are mass explosions.
At the same time, the Hinezumis begin to explode. Those caught in the
explosions have two options on how they die. One is to explode into
unrecognizable pieces, and the other is be caught in the explosion's blazes.
Only some out of the five hundred North Koreans that comprise of the first wave
turn into unrecognizable pieces. Everyone else ends up on fire, dying slowly
and painfully. If some are lucky, they manage to get away from the explosions,
but still get caught by shrapnel, making them die slowly and painfully as well.
Watching the carnage, those with Ichika have varied reactions. Ichika's is that
of indifference, while Cäcilia's, Daisuke's, Hiroki's, Osamu's, Mayumi's, and
Nao's are that of horror. They are watching men and women like them die slowly
and painfully. Some have in mind that what is happening to the North Koreans is
what could happen to them if they try to desert.
Cäcilia then asks, “What now?”
Ichika coldly answers, “The next part of the plan. We retreat to the inner
trench ring. Both trench rings are connected by way of a tunnel system. These
tunnels even lead to the embassy proper. Come now, we have to move.”
Those in the outer trench ring begin to retreat as the North Koreans have been
thinned down. The other tactic was to give the North Koreans a forward
operating base so that they can let their guards down thinking they gain
ground.
Beneath the embassy is a network of tunnels. They begin at the embassy proper
and end at the outer trench ring. They were made for troops to hide and retreat
from the beginning. This tunnel network is similar to the one across the island
of Iwo Jima, especially during the American landing there in the Second World
War.
The tunnels are five meters in both height and width. With this arrangement,
troops can retreat through the trenches without overcrowding it.
As soon as everyone stationed in the outer trench line withdraws to the inner
trench line. Ichika, Cäcilia, Daisuke, Hiroki, Osamu, Mayumi, and Nao are
greeted by Professor Yuan, who has just come from the tunnel leading to the
embassy.
Seeing him, Ichika asks, “Professor, what are you doing here?”
Osamu, in awe, says, “You're the one who invented the Kinzoku Hoheis.”
The professor answers, “To test out my other new invention. Everyone, quickly
get ready. The North Koreans will be bringing in their artillery.”
Osamu shouts, “WHAT?”
Ichika then says, “If the professor says that you should find cover, you best
find cover.”
A Nihon Gaigoku-gun soldier shouts, “Artillery pieces sighted!”
Advancing are M-1992 “Chuch'e-Po” self-propelled artillery pieces. Based on the
Chonma-ho main battle tank, these M-1992s use the ML-20 152mm howitzer made in
Russia back in the days of the Soviet Union.
The M-1992s begin firing. The professor, hearing the shots, says, “Good.”
Ichika asks, “How is this good?”
The professor says, “This is.”
As the shells begin to land on both the inner trench ring and the embassy
proper, a field of energy surround both the inner trench ring and the critical
areas of the embassy proper. They are low enough to trick the North Koreans
into thinking their shells are hitting the Japanese positions, but in reality,
are not.
The professor then says, “This is my other new invention. Remember how Japan
was about to be obliterated by 2341 missiles and that Tabane Shinonono's
Infinite Stratos suit saved all of Japan from that? Well, before the missiles
were detected, I was to test out an energy shield similar to those utilized by
Shinonono's invention but said invention beat me to using mine. But, it allowed
me to keep on testing, and now, I get to implement what I should have
implemented eleven years ago. Much like the ones found in the IS suits, these
energy shields are invisible to the naked eye.”
Daisuke then asks, “But what now?”
Ichika then says, “We wait until their ammo runs out and they begin to send
their troops advancing here. That was the rest of the plan.”
Mayumi asks, “And what then?”
Ichika answers, “We fight to the bitter end. Like I said, if we make it through
this together, we'll all go home as heroes.”
Despite Ichika's reassurance, Cäcilia, Daisuke, Hiroki, Osamu, Mayumi, and Nao
aren't. Cäcilia says in her mind, “What did being in Asgard do to you, Ichika.”
The bombardment went on for hours. Although no one in the Japanese side have
suffered no casualties, they are now eating scarcely due to the fact that, if
anyone leaves the shielded areas, they will get killed in the bombardment, and
having supplies delivered to them will alert the North Koreans that the
bombardments aren't working, making them think of something else to attack.
Part of the plan is to not have the Nihon Gaigoku-gun's artillery pieces,
stationed on the walls of the embassy proper, not fire in order to later deny
the North Koreans possible reinforcements once they resume the offensive.
However, the rest of the plan has made those in the inner trench ring weary
about whether the fighting will resume or not. Even some are risking to die
either by the bombardments or by being killed by their own out of boredom.
3:00 PM
As bombardments continue, the soldiers become bored with waiting out the
bombardment until the North Koreans reload and have their troops resume
advancing. Ichika can already notice, which is concerning him. Professor Yuan
had already left back into the embassy proper.
While looking at the artillery rounds landing on the Japanese lines, noises are
heard. Ichika decides to take a look away from the North Korean artillery
pieces.
He realizes that it's Nao causing the commotion, with everyone else not caring.
Nao is shaking and breathing loudly.
Approaching Nao, Ichika asks, “What's wrong, Kurosawa Nitouhei?”
Nao did not answer. Hard to tell why. It might be fear because it would be
reasonable Ichika would remind Nao of the concentration camps, given that the
Nihon Gaigoku-gun guard them.
Looking at Nao shaking as she wields her AKS-74U, Ichika says, “I see. You're
afraid of wielding an automatic weapon, is that it?”
Nao, after gathering a certain amount of courage, nods up and down; her way of
saying “yes”.
Ichika then says, “Okay then, let's exchange weapons.”
Nao agrees to exchange her AKS-74U for Ichika's G3A3. They also exchange
ammunition.
Ichika says, “That G3A3 rifle is bolt-actioned. I'll have to teach you how to
use it, but first, please take out the magazine.”
Nao manages to reply by saying, “Yes… ”
She then takes off the G3A3's magazine, allowing it to land on the floor. The
sound of it landing on the ground wakes everyone up.
Ichika then says, “I see you know how to load and unload a gun. Well, first
aim.”
Nao does so, with Ichika saying, “Ri… Right. Anyways squeeze the trigger.”
Nao pulls the trigger. Afterwards, Ichika says, “Next, pull back the bolt.”
After that, Nao begins pulling back the G3A3's bolt.
Afterwards, Ichika then says, “Good. Next, get the bolt lever rising.”
Nao does as Ichika tells her to do. Afterwards, he says, “At this point, the
next round is loaded. After that, you have to put the bolt back to the way you
found it. Every time you keep on firing, you have to keep doing this.”
Nao then replies, “Got it.”
After that, she restores the bolt to its normal position. Then they hear
shouting.
Ichika asks, “What now?”
Nao then gives Ichika his G3A3 back. As Ichika takes it and the magazine Nao
removed, he goes to see what's happening.
He then walks to see a Nihon Gaigoku-gun soldier leave his G3A3 and attempt to
leave the inner trench ring. However, it's hard to tell right now if the
soldier attempting to desert is a volunteer who had given up on waiting or he
is a reeducation facility inmate who is trying to desert despite the risks,
boredom, or both.
As soon as the soldier gets up away from the inner trench ring, he then shouts,
“Don't shoot!”
This surprises everyone in the inner trench ring. Even the North Koreans decide
to stop bombarding, despite the one who crawled out of the inner trench ring
being their enemy.
The soldier says, “Don't shoot. I'm willing to join you. I decided to become a
Communist like you. I don't want to fight for the upper-class anymore. We're
comrades, right?”
Daisuke and the others walk up to Ichika, with Daisuke saying, “I heard he
ended up in the facilities for joining the rebels like us.”
Ichika then says, “Thanks.”
He then aims his G3A3 at the head of the soldier attempting to desert. This
horrifies Cäcilia, Daisuke, Hiroki, Osamu, Mayumi, and Nao.
Hiroki asks, “What are you doing?”
Ichika coldly answers, “Deporting him.”
He squeezes the trigger. As he does, the 7.62x51mm round shot out of the battle
rifle hits the deserting soldier's head.
The soldier, however, is still alive. However, the bullet in his head has just
paralyzed him. Now, all he can do is crawl.
Ichika continues to fire at the deserting soldier. After repeated shots, the
soldier stops moving.
Unsure, Ichika asks, “Maybe I should-”
Suddenly, he is hit in the head. The one who had done the act is Cäcilia, using
her own M4A1's buttstock.
Turning his back to find out it was Cäcilia, Ichika says, “That was
insubordination.”
Cäcilia, tearing up, says, “That's far enough! He's dead!”
Seeing Cäcilia cry, Ichika begins to tone himself down with his emotions.
Watching Cäcilia cry had Ichika remind him of whom he thinks Cäcilia really is.
He then gets up and says, “I will not have you punished. However, don't you
ever do that again.”
Seeing Nao, he gives her back his G3A3, saying, “Now you know how to use it
properly.”
Ichika then faces everyone in the inner trench ring and says, “That will be
all. Return to your posts.”
After that, the bombardments continued. Both sides, however, become vigilant,
as they watched each other carefully on who will move first.
7:00 PM
The bombardments continue, even unto the evening. Although they cause noise,
the troops slept through the ordeal, with some already wanting actual fighting
to commence. They wouldn't care about living or dying because in their mind,
either is better than enduring the artillery barrage.
The men and women with Ichika have been assigned various roles. He and Cäcilia
are to patrol the inner trench ring, both Daisuke and Hiroki are asleep after
having done their posts, Osamu is to guard the spare ammunition for everyone's
weapons, and Nao and Mayumi are on lookout duty, which was Daisuke and Hiroki's
posts before they turned in for the night.
While patrolling his end of the inner trench ring, Ichika, wielding Nao's
original AKS-74U, hears shouting again. He exhaustedly asks, “What now?”
Going to the commotion is, he sees Cäcilia and Daisuke pulling Nao, while
Hiroki and Osamu pull Mayumi.
Nao has blood coming out of her mouth. Other than that, she appears to be
covered in dirt.
Mayumi, while being pulled, viciously shouts at Nao, saying, “IT'S YOUR FAULT!
IT'S YOUR FAULT!”
Ichika asks, “What happened?”
Cäcilia answers, “Ishida pushed Kurosawa into the ground and punched her.
Kurosawa retaliated, then we stopped them both from continuing.”
Ichika, giving off the impression he knew things everyone doesn't, says, “I
knew it would come to this.”
Cäcilia asks, “What do you mean?”
Ichika answers, “I read all of your files. I figured some of you would break at
this point.”
He then faces both Mayumi and Nao and says, “Especially you two. I figured you
two joined the rebels and ended up here because-”
Mayumi then says, “Because Nao and I are in love.”
Everyone, but Ichika, shows surprise with what Mayumi had said.
Hiroki asks, “Wait, you two are-”
Rather than let Hiroki continue, Mayumi says, 'Yes, we're lesbians.”
After the purges against Phantom Task's supporters in the Japanese government
due to their assistance in Ichirou Sawamura's assassination, the Reconstruction
Party promised equal rights for same-sex couples, including sex-sex marriage.
However, it is opposed for traditional reasons, especially with the mindset
that sex-sex relationships beyond mere friendship are a “phase” people go
through before college. However, both Mayumi and Nao want to go beyond a mere
“phase.”
Mayumi then angrily faces Nao and says, “You… you're the reason we're here.”
Ichika, however, crosses them, saying, “Ishida's right. I read that in Kurosawa
and Ishida's files, both wanted to continue their relationship after high
school, but got opposed. Nao, who was with the Nihon Gaigoku-gun Imperial Youth
Battalion, fought the rebels in the Miyazaki Prefecture. However, Kurosawa
discovered that Ishida joined the rebels, and rather than kill her, was
arrested alongside Ishid-”
Suddenly, a voice, which sounded like that of someone finally gaining courage,
says, “That is true.”
Surprising everyone is Nao, who had just opened her voice. What actually
surprises them is that Nao's mouth was open long enough to complete a sentence.
Gathering more courage to at least finish a paragraph, Nao says, “I ended up
being treated an enemy of the state like Mayumi-chan. I didn't want to kill
her, but then, I would have… ”
Mayumi, about to shed tears, angrily asks, “THEN YOU SHOULD HAVE LET THEM
ARREST ME!”
She then lowers her voice and says, “That way, you wouldn't have ended up like
me. You had your-”
Nao then silently says, “Because I wanted to be brave.”
Everyone still takes pause as they hear why Nao was branded a criminal. Her
face as she continues to say more shows that she had kept silent throughout
most of her life, but with everything that has happened now coming to its head.
Nao continues by saying, “Ever since that day you saved me from those boys, you
always protected me. You were basically a sister to me because I didn't have
siblings, whereas you had your younger brother Hayato. You never complained,
but I… I felt you were doing too much for me. It's why I ended up an enemy of
the state like you did. I didn't want you to die.”
Ichika then asks, “Anything you want to say? Ishida Nitouhei?”
Rather than answer verbally, Mayumi successfully lets herself go from Hiroki
and Osamu and charges at Nao. However, what happens is that she instead
embraces Nao.
Looking on, and reflecting on what Nao had said, Ichika and Cäcilia look on,
with what appear to be that of subtle sadness which nobody will notice.
However, their thoughts differ.
Ichika's thoughts are on how he had lived so far. He then thinks about the time
Wilhelm and Akiko left him and Chifuyu to save them from Phantom Task. He feels
that everything he does, even now, hurts Chifuyu.
Cäcilia's are those of her family. She is reminded that she did the same for
her younger brother. His location, however, is uncertain, but Cäcilia knows.
She has not told anyone of this.
Both Nao and Mayumi face Ichika, with the former asking, “Nomura Gunsou, may
we-”
Knowing what the two want to do, Ichika says, “I will allow it. After all,
we're not exactly a professional military. But-”
A voice says, “But nothing. I can help.”
The one who interrupts Ichika is none other than Professor Yuan, who comes out
of the tunnel connecting the inner trench ring to the embassy proper, which
surprises everyone. He comes with a wagon filled with futons and what appear to
be washing supplies, almost as if he knows what Nao and Mayumi want to do. Also
in the wagon is a makeshift tub.
Ichika then asks, “Professor, what are you doing here?”
The professor replies, “I heard about what had been said here, so I decided to
help. But, if I were Fuu, I'd recommend that both Kurosawa Nitouhei and Ishida
Nitouhei clean themselves up. That's why the wagon has a tub.
Both Nao and Mayumi say, “Thanks.”
Ichika asks, “Are you two sure about this?”
Mayumi answers, “We're sure. If we're both going to die, I'd rather have the
both of us be each others' 'firsts.'”
Ichika says, “I guess. Go on.”
Both Mayumi and Nao leave to clean themselves up. As the former had said, it
would be regretful that one died before consummating his or her relationship
with the person he or she loves.
Daisuke then asks, “Uhm… Nomura Gunsou, I… ”
Ichika, figuring out what Daisuke is about to say, says, “If this is about your
crimes… ”
Daisuke says, “It is. I will say this as I said when I ended up in the camps. I
didn't mean to help terrorists. You see, I wanted to go into making anime, but
I feared that the government would suppress people like me. I didn't know I
joined terrorists, I swear.”
Ichika, not fully convinced, asks, “Really?”
He then faces both Osamu and Hiroki, asking, “What about you two?”
Feeling guilty with what Ichika had asked them, both Osamu and Hiroki begin
confessing as to why they revolted against the Emperor in the first place.
Osamu starts first.
Osamu then says, “I… I just wanted to pilot a Kinzoku Hohei, but my father
opposed because he wanted me to take up the family business.”
Ichika asks, “Which is?”
Osamu answers, “My father owned a sushi shop. I didn't want to inherit it, and
like what Ishida Nitouhei did, I joined the rebels out of spite. I hoped I can
die rather than deal with my father.”
Hiroki then says, “I ended up with the rebels much like Kaji Nitouhei. I have
problems with my mother, who stressed how well I did in school because she was
an education critic. All we talked about was schoolwork. Out of spite, I joined
the rebels, surrendered, and ended up here.”
Ichika then says, “You two should see your families when this is over.”
Both Osamu and Hiroki are horrified with what Ichika said. They didn't care if
they became criminals as long as they're away from their respective families.
What Ichika had told them to do defeats the reason they became criminals in the
first place.
The former tries to say, “But… ”
Ichika says, “You two at least have families, and despite what they say, they
say it because they love you. I get it, you two dream big. Once we all come
back to Japan, I'll arrange for something.”
He then faces Daisuke, saying, “That goes for you also, Fuyutsuki Nitouhei.”
As Ichika has all three's attention, he says, “All of you, listen. I know you
have your problems, but you will not get help by being criminals. As I said
before, which I will say again, do your duty, and you will be rewarded. The
days of Japan's failed attempts as a democracy are over. Yes, we're not a
democracy, but more freedom is offered now.”
Feeling at ease by Ichika's speech, Hiroki says, “You know what, Nomura
Gunsou's right. We just need to survive.”
Osamu says, “I agree.”
Two voices are then saying, “Us too.”
Saying that are Mayumi and Nao, now in towels. However, they are still wearing
their boots, and they are carrying spare uniforms.
Everyone still awake looks at them awkwardly, with Hiroki asking, “You two
didn't-”
Mayumi says, “Yes, we came without lingerie. Besides, isn't it traditional for
Japanese women like me and Nao to have no undergarments?”
Ichika says, “Unfortunately, yes. However, despite bending to certain
traditions, it isn't needed to-”
Mayumi cuts Ichika by saying, “Nao and I agreed to it. Besides, when we made
the promise that we'd be each others' 'firsts', we wouldn't wear
undergarments.”
Ichika then says, “I see. You two can do it in the tunnel between here and the
outer trench ring. The North Koreans cannot open it, so you can pull it off.”
Both Nao and Mayumi excitedly say, “Thanks.”
Later, Ichika, Nao, and Mayumi arrive at the door leading to the tunnel they
took, along with everyone else, to escape the North Koreans. Other than the
tunnel they are in now, there are multiple tunnels made for the same purpose.
Other than providing an escape route, they were also built to reinforce those
in the outer trench ring with more men and supplies. Even a surprise attack can
be mounted on the North Koreans right now through the tunnels, but if the
entrance, which the North Koreans cannot open, were to be opened from the
embassy proper and by those in the embassy proper, the element of surprise will
be eliminated.
Ichika then says, “Everything else you need is here.”
He then shows them what else was in the wagon given by Professor Yuan, which
also contain sex toys. Among those sex toys are various types of strap-on
dildos. It would appear to be the professor, and by extension, Ichika, who
isn't fazed by those, know that both Nao and Mayumi want to go far into their
first time.
Mayumi then says, “We'll each take both.”
Ichika says, “Wise choice. For health issues, everything, including the wagon,
was cleaned thoroughly.”
He shows them every type of strap-on dildo in the wagon. Nao grabs a black-
colored strap-on dildo. Mayumi grabs a strap-on dildo colored jade green.
Teasingly, Mayumi says, “Well, wish us luck.”
Ichika says, “Right. I'll be waking up tomorrow at oh five forty-five (5:45 AM/
05:45). I'll see you then.”
Nao then says, “Thank you, Nomu-”
Ichika cuts her off, saying, “You can just call me Daremo.”
Nao says, “That I will, Daremo-san.”
As both Nao and Mayumi go into the tunnel, they close the door for it, having
the tunnel for themselves.
Inside the tunnel, after laying the futons into the ground and taking their
boots off, Nao asks, “So, how do we start?”
Mayumi then says, “With this.”
She then kisses Nao. Nao does not resist as she passionately goes along with
it.
In the outer trench ring, now occupied by North Korean troops, two men walk by
the door leading to the tunnel hear Mayumi and Nao's foreplay.
One soldier asks, “Jeogae mweol gut gaht-nayo (What do you think that is)?”
The other soldier replies, “Ama jwiduri hanbatang hago itnahbojo. Sin-gyung-
suzi-maseyo (Probably two rats having sex. Don't fret over it).”
The two North Korean soldiers walk away from the door. The other soldier was
right to say that there is sexual activity happening in the tunnel, but it
isn't between rodents, but between two female soldiers from the opposing side.
In the Japanese side, Ichika walks by the tunnel to check on both Mayumi and
Nao. As he approaches the entrance to the tunnel, he hears Mayumi and Nao as
they continue having sex.
What Ichika hears is the strap-on dildo being used. However, he hears it being
removed, and as it turns out, the one shouting in pleasure turns out to be Nao,
with Mayumi using the strap-on dildo.
Ichika then hears Mayumi say, “Face me and put it in your pussy.”
He also hears Nao saying, “Yes.”
In the tunnel, with Nao and Mayumi already naked, they continue. The former
inserts the strap-on dildo into herself.
After thirty more minutes, Cäcilia walks in to see Ichika by the tunnel's
entrance. To her surprise, Ichika doesn't show signs of being satisfied in
hearing two women have sex.
Cäcilia then asks, “How long have they been at it?”
Ichika coldly replies, “An hour. Ishida Nitouhei's on Kurosawa Nitouhei's main
exit.”
Cäcilia says, “I see.”
Noticing Ichika's groin not being hard, she asks, “How exactly can you remain
like that?”
Unaware of the topic of Cäcilia's question, Ichika asks, “What do you mean?”
Cäcilia says, “I mean, forgive me for saying this, but as a man, shouldn't you
be erect over two girls having sex?”
Ichika is embarrassed to hear such a question from Cäcilia. The latter is also
embarrassed for having asked such as question as well.
Ichika replies, “That's for me to know and for you to find out.”
Suddenly, both Ichika and Cäcilia hear Nao about to orgasm again as she asks,
“May I… please cum, Mayumi-chan?”
Mayumi replies, “Yes, let's do it.”
Hearing silence, yet at the same time knowing things are going well for Nao and
Mayumi, Ichika asks, “Shall we leave the two lovebirds alone?”
Cäcilia says, “Agreed.”
As Ichika and Cäcilia leave, Mayumi had finished taking Nao's virginity.
However, with Mayumi finished, Nao begins to stand up.
Nao then begins to roll over Mayumi's body. Her intention is to have Mayumi on
bottom this time.
Realizing what is happening, Mayumi asks, “Nao, what are you doing?”
Nao answers, “It's my turn now.”
Realizing that is what Nao wants, Mayumi says, “Sure, go for it.”
May 4, 2017
While Nao and Mayumi are asleep, a knock is heard on the door leading to the
inner trench ring. The one knocking says, “Nao, Mayumi, are you two awake?”
Both Nao and Mayumi wake up. Hearing the voice, they realize it's Ichika, with
Nao saying, “We're awake, Daremo-san.”
Ichika says, “Good. Wash up and get in uniform.”
Both reply, “Got it.”
At 6:15 AM, the door leading to the tunnel opens. Nao comes out first, now in
uniform, while Mayumi, also in uniform, carries the wagon with the futons,
towels, bathroom supplies, and the strap-on dildos, which are in the makeshift
tub the two used to wash up.
Ichika, however, is not alone as he greets Nao and Mayumi. With him is a
Zanichi Korean male who is in the Nihon Gaigoku-gun. His uniform has what
appear to be insignia indicating he's a field medic.
Nao asks, “Daremo-san, who's-”
The medic introduces himself, saying, “To Kwang-hwan. You two are to be
inspected since you two had sex.”
Realizing why they need to be inspected, Mayumi says, “Of course.”
Kwang-hwan says, “Follow me, you two.”
As Nao and Mayumi leave with Kwang-hwan, Cäcilia walks by and asks, “Are they
getting cleaned up?”
Ichika replies, “They are.”
Cäcilia asks, “That got me asking this: Are giving rights for same-sex couples
that important?”
Ichika then says, “It's not just that. You see, the Reconstruction Party is
into “Social Reconstruction,” which is rebuilding Japanese society by being
progressive on beliefs and innovations of all kinds. That itself derived from a
fringe way of thinking. That way of thinking is called “Neutral Equality.”
Cäcilia is surprised Ichika had said the words “Neutral Equality.” Other than
being surprised, Cäcilia continues to listen, but it might be that she knows
what Neutral Equality is about.
Ichika explains, “'Neutral Equality is about treating anyone, regardless of
sex, gender, religion, or ethnicity, as an equal. Anyone can provide for all of
mankind regardless of difference.' That is the definition provided by one
Wilhelm von Mielke. The Reconstruction Party followed this philosophy, which
they implemented into the 'Social Reconstruction' concept. It's why they are
willing to take in refugees and make things better for same-sex couples.”
Suddenly, another Nihon Gaigoku-gun soldier, a Syrian Arab female, approaches
the two, and seeing Ichika, asks, “Are you Technical Sergeant Daremo Nomura.”
Ichika answers, “Who's asking?”
The Syrian says, “Colonel Matsuda. He wants you at the embassy proper.”
Ichika says, “Got it.”
Ichika then leaves the both Cäcilia and the Syrian.
Later, Ichika arrives at Jun's office. However, it's nothing more than a shack
in the embassy proper. However, everyone in it, who command the entire
contingent of one hundred fifty men, are at work giving orders.
The one primarily giving orders is Jun, who is conversing with one of the
commissioned officers. He is above a table that has the map of the area.
On the map are blue lines. The blue lines would represent the trench rings.
They surround a blue dot that appears to be the embassy proper. The square
representing the outer trench ring has red squares, which appear to represent
the North Korean forces. The squares have arrows pointing to the embassy
proper.
Ichika then approaches the colonel and asks, “Matsuda Taisa, you called for
me?”
Seeing Ichika, Jun says, “Oh, I'm not the one calling for you. She is.”
He then points to, much to Ichika's surprise, Misa.
In his mind, he asks, “What's Sawamura Taishou doing here?”
Misa, realizing what Ichika is thinking, says, “No need to say anything, Nomura
Gunsou. I'm here to command the reinforcements.”
Ichika asks, “Reinforcements?”
Misa says, “That's right. The North Koreans might throw a lot at us, and that
will include armor. I'll be having the reinforcements on standby.”
Ichika says, “I see.”
Misa then faces Jun and asks, “Matsuda Taisa, may I please talk to Nomura
Gunsou alone?”
Hearing Misa ask Jun troubles Ichika further. In his mind, Misa has plenty to
say about him being in South Korea in the first place, and Ichika only has half
the mind to do anything Misa would say at this point, especially concerning
Mikuni.
Jun answers, “You may, Sawamura Taishou.”
Both Ichika and Mikuni leave the “command room.” Outside, Ichika asks, “Look,
Taishou-”
Before saying anything else, Misa says, “I know you're asking about Kakizaki
Gochou. The answer is that she knows, but I'm not telling you anything else.
That will be your punishment for not telling me and her about going here. That
satisfying?”
Having nothing else to say to Misa anymore out of guilt, Ichika says, “Yes,
ma'am.”
Misa then says, “I heard you help two women confess their love to one another.”
Ichika isn't surprised. The reason is that the Nihon Gaigoku-gun have all their
positions bugged to acquire evidence of everything that happens in a battle.
Ichika says, “I see.”
Misa says, “Good. Both Kurosawa and Ishida are having themselves scanned right
now, are they?”
Ichika says, “They are.”
Misa says, “That's good. They should be done by now. Do pick them up and return
to the inner trench field. The North Koreans might begin advancing now.”
Ichika salutes Misa and says, “Yes, ma'am.”
He then leaves Misa to pick up Nao and Mayumi.
Ichika has just arrived at the Medical Room, which will be where wounded, and
predictably, dying soldiers will be going to once the battle proper begins. So
far, the only two soldiers being treated are Nao and Mayumi.
Seeing Ichika, Kwang-hwan says, “Nomura Gunsou, you're here. I've finished
scanning Kurosawa Nitouhei and Ishida Nitouhei. You may take them back to the
front.”
Ichika says, “That I will.”
Before leaving, Ichika asks, “By the way, where's Liao-sensei. Her husband said
she was here?”
Kwang-hwan says, “Liao-sensei left for a while to get more supplies. We'll be
expecting wounded once the battle starts.”
Ichika replies, “I see.”
Ichika then leaves the Medical Room, with Nao and Mayumi in tow. Kwang-hwan
watches and says to himself, “It will be saddening if those three died.”
Unbeknownst to the three, one lone female soldier watches them. She hides her
face with her helmet to not be seen.
About to reach the inner trench ring, Ichika, Nao, and Mayumi see Cäcilia with
her M4A1 waiting for them just by the inner trench ring's entrance. Ichika
asks, “Runge Nitouhei, what might this be a-”
Cäcilia says, “Never mind that. The North Koreans have begun their advance.”
The three are surprised by what they have heard. While they were expecting the
North Koreans to begin advancing, they didn't expect it to be now.
Ichika says, “No wonder I stopped hearing their artillery.”
Cäcilia says, “Indeed. We've been ordered to hide our heads and helmets until
they get close. That way, we can surprise them. You best crouch and walk here.”
Ichika says, “I see. Thanks for telling us this.”
He then faces Nao and Mayumi, saying. “You two, it's best to do the same.”
Both Nao and Mayumi say, “Got it.”
Across the inner trench ring, the Nihon Gaigoku-gun begin to mount up their
defenses. Most are equipping their M4A1s and G3A3s with what appear to be
The four go to their position in the inner trench ring. Daisuke has his G3A3,
which has a bayonet attached to it, ready. Osamu with his M4A1, and Hiroki
hiding near his Ultimax 100. Both Nao and Mayumi have arrived near Hiroki to
assist him, with Mayumi resuming her role as Hiroki's loader by grabbing her
MP7 and drum magazines, with Nao grabbing her G3A3.
To take a look at the advancing North Koreans, Ichika takes off his helmet and
slowly raises his head to see the North Koreans. After taking a three-second
look, Ichika stops and puts his helmet back on.
What he saw are the advancing North Koreans. Unlike the ones they slaughtered
with the Hinezumi mines, the advancing North Koreans consist of five hundred
men and five hundred women. They advance slowly and are led by a commissioned
officer carrying a CZ 85 semi-automatic pistol. Most have their weapons
attached with bayonets.
Ichika then tells everyone, “Everyone, wait it out first. Once we hear our
artillery on the walls fire, we fire as well.”
Slowly, the North Koreans advance. Waiting for them to make it close enough
have the Nihon Gaigoku-gun troops defending the inner trench ring on the edge.
They got what they wanted as the bombardments stopped, but now have to deal
with a thousand North Korean troops. Most have their Type 98s attached with
bayonets.
While waiting, Ichika tells the Nihon Gaigoku-gun soldiers, “Wait for it… ”
After three minutes, he again says, “Wait for it… ”
Despite the North Koreans getting closer, Ichika says, “Wait for it... ”
As the North Koreans are five meters away from the inner trench ring, they hear
artillery fire. Ichika then shouts, “NOW!”
The artillery piece fired was actually one of the Nihon Gaigoku-gun artillery
pieces on the embassy proper's walls. The Nihon Gaigoku-gun's artillery barrage
was to not only to cut off the North Koreans' support, but to signal the troops
in the inner trench ring to begin firing on the North Koreans, which the do so.
The North Koreans begin losing their numbers by the double digits as their
bodies are being penetrated by 7.62x51mm rounds from the G3A3s, 5.45x39mm
rounds from the AKS-74Us, 5.56x45mm rounds from the M4A1s and Ultimax 100s, and
4.6x30mm rounds from the MP7s. Most are being killed by the machine gunners
manning the Ultimax 100s are the ones killing the most, but the North Koreans'
losses aren't just in the double digits.
Seeing his subordinates getting slaughtered all around him, the North Korean
commissioned officer tries to flee back to the outer trench ring. Instead, an
artillery round kills him instead.
Most of the North Korean's losses are due to the Japanese beginning their
artillery bombardment. The Japanese held off using their artillery to take the
North Koreans off guard. They are inside the embassy proper.
The artillery pieces in question are TRF1 towed howitzers supplied by France.
However, they do not have their wheels and each one was built into each tower
as part of the embassy proper.
Jun, who is on the walls, appears to be helping with the usage of the mortars.
The mortars in question resemble falconet cannons from the 15th Century. The
resemblance is that the mortars are built on four-wheeled platforms like
falconets were. This way, it will be easier for infantry units assigned with
mortars for light artillery in that the mortars can be moved easily.
Looking as the North Koreans are being bombarded, he says, “I knew my tactic
would work. Because of that, the North Koreans let their guard down, and this
happens.”
Below the embassy's walls, the majority of those fighting on both sides has now
escalated into close quarters combat. Those with bayonets on both sides put
them to good use. Others resort to using their buttstocks, and some decide to
kill with various weapons, including entrenching tools, machetes, and even bare
fists.
A male soldier who is a Syrian of Armenian descent beats a male North Korean
soldier who had accidentally made it into the inner trench ring but dropped his
Type 69, allowing the Syrian to kill him easily. The Syrian bayonets the North
Korean.
A female North Korean soldier who was about to jump into the inner trench ring
is grabbed by a female Nihon Gaigoku-gun soldier who is an Iraqi of Shabak
descent. After slamming the female North Korean into the ground, the female
Nihon Gaigoku-gun soldier grabs her knife and stabs the North Korean at her
spine, killing her.
Meanwhile, those with Ichika have begun to kill as much North Koreans as they
can. Daisuke repeatedly stabs a male North Korean soldier to death with his
G3A3's bayonet, Osamu has just killed another North Korean soldier wielding a
Type 73 with his M4A1's M26, and Cäcilia kills a few more using her M4A1's
M203.
While Hiroki continues using the Ultimax 100, his drum magazine runs out of
ammunition. However, a male North Korean soldier whose Type 69 has a bayonet
attached to it begins charging at the two as Mayumi reloads for Hiroki. The
North Korean is then shot in the heart and falls into the ground.
The one having saved both Hiroki and Mayumi is Nao. The latter is now more
confident, as proven by saving Mayumi and Hiroki.
She then says, “Reload that machine gun. I'll cover you.”
As Ichika guns down as many North Koreans as he can, a male North Korean using
a Type 69 with bayonet charges at him. Ichika, however, entraps the bayonet
with the palms of both of his hands. Ichika then pushes the rifle upward, much
to the North Korean's surprise, but is shot in that instant by Ichika using his
Desert Eagle.
Hiroki continues killing as much North Koreans as he can. However, he is out of
ammunition.
He then shouts to Mayumi, “I'm out! I'm out!”
As Mayumi begins to reload for Hiroki, with Nao providing cover for them, their
right flank is routed. But, with the way both sides are fighting right now,
only one North Korean survived.
Seeing the right flank being routed, Ichika says, “Fuyutsuki, Kaji, Cäcilia,
please hold this flank. If you can, help anyone else from our side that isn't
dead yet. I'll help Kurosawa, Ishida, and Akatsuki.”
As Daisuke, Osamu, and Cäcilia each kill a North Korean, the three say in
unison, “Understood.”
While rushing to save Nao, Mayumi, and Hiroki, Ichika shouts, “Abunai!”
As the three hear Ichika's warning, they try to turn their heads to the right
flank, but the North Korean soldier who survived the attack that at least took
out the right flank's defenders, shoots his M56 at Hiroki.
After shooting Hiroki, he sees Ichika shoots him, but the bullets hitting
Ichika do not hurt him at the most, and he wastes the rest of his M56's
magazine. However, Ichika begins shooting him.
As the North Korean fell into the ground, Ichika attempts to stab the North
Korean, but instead, the North Korean attempts to fight back desperately. As he
struggles, the North Korean's fear is the only thing he shows while struggling.
Looking at the North Korean's eyes, which are nothing but fear, Ichika realizes
that the man doesn't want to die, with looking at his fear-filled eyes making
him lose concentration. Unfortunately, because he wasn't concentrating, he
stabbed the North Korean anyways at the heart.
After stabbing him, Ichika himself lays into the ground. As he gets up, he sees
the North Korean's body, with Ichika saying, “No… no… “
Ichika then goes to the North Korean. However, rather than be dead instantly
from that stab, the North Korean instead dies after a few more seconds of
suffering.
Rushing to help are Ichika are Daisuke, Osamu, Cäcilia, and those they saved.
Among them are the Shabak Iraqi woman, male Syrian Arab, one female Zanichi
Korean, and a Sudanese man of Bedouin descent.
As the seven rush to the right, they are too late, because Hiroki is dead.
Other than that, they, along with Nao and Mayumi, see Ichika kneeling on the
ground before the dying North Korean who shot Hiroki.
Rushing also is Kwang-hwan, who receives the fatally wounded from Nao and
Mayumi, and two other soldiers; one of whom masks his face and wields a certain
Karabiner 98k using the ZF42 telescopic sight. Kwang-hwan then leaves to help
Hiroki if he can, with the other soldier helping as the one equipped with the
Karabiner stays behind.
While Ichika tearfully looks at the dying North Korean, the North Korean,
albeit dying, uses what's left of his energy to look Ichika, almost as if he is
using Ichika's own guilt. Afterwards, he dies in that instant.
Ichika then says something in German. Looking at Ichika, Daisuke faces Cäcilia
and asks, “What's he saying?”
Cäcilia translates for Ichika by saying, '”Forgive me, comrade. I did not want
to kill you. If you had not just tried to kill Hiroki, you will be alive. I
thought you hated us Japanese, but it seems like the people here, you didn't
want to fight. Had you just surrendered and defected to us, I would have had
you as a guest in my apartment and introduced you to my wife. Please, take most
of my life. I'd rather die now.”
Despite Cäcilia translating for him loudly, Ichika is not disturbed as he
apologizes. The dead North Korean is doing that instead.
Both, Ichika and Cäcilia, albeit in different languages, say, “I'll write your
loved ones. They must hear it from me. I will tell them everything. I will even
rescue them from your government and get them citizenships in Japan.”
Ichika then looks for anything the North Korean had used to write. After
removing his body armor and opening his uniform, he finds a book. However,
Ichika cannot understand, for he knows little of the Korean language.
The Zanichi Korean female soldier says, “I'll read through it.”
Ichika then silently says, “Thanks-”
The female Zanichi Korean says, “The name's Mae Da-hee.”
The soldier with the Karabiner 98k shouts, “Incoming.”
Everyone sans Ichika sees not only more North Korean troops incoming. However,
they are even more horrified than when the battle started because other than
more infantry regiments, the North Koreans have brought their tanks, which are
Chonma-ho and Pokpung-ho main battle tanks. The attack just now took most of
the Japanese numbers.
Having been shown that the Japanese had repelled the infantrymen they had sent
against the embassy, the North Koreans had thought their tanks will allow them
to win. Coming from the tunnel they made, which connects “Little Japan” to
North Korea, the armored units begin crossing the outer trench ring by way of
bridges built for vehicles above the outer trench ring.
However, the advancing North Koreans are then bombarded by the Japanese
artillery battery in the embassy proper. This time, their mortars and howitzers
are now using rounds similar to the Hinezumi mines, in that, once they hit one
target, the fumes coming from the explosion spread and kill everything else
caught in the blast radius. With the shells hitting the tanks, the infantrymen
in front and behind the armored units are victims to the fumes, having them
suffer the same fate as the first five hundred North Koreans that advanced the
day before, only to die by the Hinezumis.
But the few tanks that escaped the bombardments, they aren't so lucky either.
Bridges are then lowered above the inner trench ring, much to the surprise of
those still in the inner trench ring.
Daisuke then asks, “Those are our reinforcements?'
Cäcilia says, “More or less.”
The Japanese armored reinforcements proceed to take down the remaining North
Korean armored units. They consist of Russian T-72 main battle tanks of the
“B3” variant, Ukrainian T-84 main battle tanks of the “Oplot-M” variant, and
various tank destroyers. The tank destroyers are the KR (Kikou Ryouhei)-01
Kaeru, KR-02 Imori, and KR-03 Sanshouuo.
The KR-01 uses the chassis of the BMP-3 infantry fighting vehicle, the KR-02
uses the chassis of the T-72B3, and the KR-03 uses the chassis of the T-84.
Similarly, Nazi Germany built their tank destroyers using the chassis of their
tanks during the Second World War.
As the Japanese armor make quick work of the remaining North Korean armor, the
remaining North Korean troops in the outer trench ring begin to surrender. The
battle as a whole started with one hundred fifty Japanese troops and initially
five thousand North Korean troops. Fifty of the former were only stationed in
the embassy proper. The latter were reinforced by nine thousand more and one
tank battalion. The battle ends with eighty-four Japanese dead, with the fifty
in the embassy proper having survived. Those left in the North Korean forces to
surrender comprise of only a thirty-man platoon, with its lieutenant
surrendering.
In the inner trench ring, everyone but Ichika cheers that they have won the
battle. However, Daisuke notices that Ichika is still kneeling on the ground.
He and the masked soldier approach Ichika, with the former saying, “Nomura
Gunsou, please get up.”
Ichika, however, chooses not to get up. He is still horrified that he killed,
yet didn't want to kill. The masked soldier, however, forces Ichika to get up
and makes Ichika face him, saying, “How could you leave me for this?”
The soldier then punches Ichika, knocking him unconscious. As he loses
consciousness following the punch, Ichika sees a familiar face. He says, “Mi…
kuni-ch… an… ”
Ichika then falls into the ground. Everyone is horrified with what has
happened. Daisuke says, “You can't just-”
The soldier begins unmasking himself, or rather, herself. As it turns out, the
soldier is Mikuni Kakizaki herself.
She then says, “Kakizaki Mikuni Gochou. I will assume command for now. I was
under Sawamura Taishou's orders. As for Nomura Gunsou, he's my husband.”
Realizes who he was shouting at, Daisuke and everyone else in the inner trench
ring salute, with Daisuke saying, “We apologize, ma'am.”
However, everybody else begins talking amongst themselves about Ichika being
married. “Wait, Nomura Gunsou's married,” are among the things said. Another is
“Why didn't he tell us?”
Suddenly, Misa and a squad of Nihon Gaigoku-gun soldiers appear, and she says,
“Thank you, Kakizaki Gochou. We'll take it from here.”
She then turns her attention to Daisuke and the remaining troops in the inner
trench ring, saying, “All of you have fought well. Now, we all can go home.”
Hearing what is brought forth by the supreme commander of the Nihon Gaigoku-gun
itself, everyone gives out their loudest cheers.
Later, Ichika then comes about. However, he is now in the embassy proper's
Medical Room. The medical room is full of those either wounded or about to die.
Misa then comes in, with Ichika, seeing her, asks, “Sawamura Tai… shou?”
Misa says, “You're awake. We won. Also, I come to give you this.”
She then gives what appear to be paper collected together.
Ichika then asks, “What might this be?”
Misa says, “A certain Mae Da-hee Nitouhei gave this to me. She asked me to give
this to you.”
Realizing what might be in the papers, due to Misa bringing up Da-hee, Ichika
begins to dread. He feels that he will be reminded of his own feelings about
that soldier he killed in the inner trench ring.
Regardless, Ichika begins to flip through the papers. He realizes that ignoring
that story of a dying man would be cowardice and that it is part of his
responsibility for killing the man.
After reading it for two hours, Ichika flips the paper back to the first page.
The name “Paek Sung-jin” appears on the first page. That appeared to be the
name of the North Korean soldier Ichika killed.
Looking at the name again, Ichika dreads further. He should know that even
enemy soldiers have names but feels as if the Sung-jin should have lived. Even
if said soldier killed Hiroki.
A voice familiar to him says, “You're awake, Ichika-sama.”
Ichika then puts down the papers he was holding to see his wife Mikuni in front
of him. To him, Mikuni is the last person he wanted to see there.
Coldly, Ichika asks, “So you did follow me here, Mikuni-chan?”
Mikuni says, “Ichika-sama, I… ”
Suddenly, Daisuke, Osamu, Nao, and Mayumi arrive at the entrance of the Medical
Room to see Ichika. Instead, they hear Ichika shouting at Mikuni for the latter
being in South Korea.
Amongst themselves, the four start talking amongst themselves, with Daisuke
asking, “Do Nomura Gunsou and Kakizaki Gochou know each?”
Nao then asks, “But why did Kakizaki Gochou call Nomura Gunsou 'Ichika?'”
A voice behind them says, “I can answer those questions.”
To their surprise, behind them is Misa. As the former four instantly salute in
fear, the latter then says, “At ease. Come with me to my room here and I'll
explain everything.”
After saluting, they say, “Yes, ma'am.”
Afterwards, the four and Misa arrive at the latter's room for the embassy
proper. As instructed, with her reasons being that she intends to her wants
humble, Misa's room isn't too big.
Osamu then asks, “What might be this be about Nomura Gunsou and Kakizaki
Gochou?”
Misa then says, “I will tell you, but you four have to keep this amongst
yourselves. Do not tell this to anyone.”
The four reply, “Yes, ma'am.”
For two hours and thirty minutes, Misa tells Daisuke, Osamu, Nao, and Mayumi
everything about Ichika, including what had happened last year. During Misa's
story, the four have nothing but pity and more respect for Ichika.
Mayumi then says, “I can't believe Nomura Gunsou and Kakizaki Gochou are
married”
Osamu asks, “And to think Nomura Gunsou is actually the first male to pilot an
Infinite Stratos Suit.”
Misa says, “And now you know. You four are dismissed, but remember, keep this
amongst yourselves.”
All four salute and reply, “Yes, ma'am.”
After that, they leave Misa's room. Not that the four know it, but Misa saw
through that they can be trusted.
May 5, 2017
The survivors of the battle gather before Misa in the center of the embassy
proper. Those still badly wounded are still in the Medical Room. Ichika is now
in attendance.
Misa then says, “All of you had fought well. For that, despite your pasts, you
will all be handsomely rewarded. Normally, you people wouldn't be rewarded like
this, but our Japan is different. Your past should not matter, but rather, your
future. So you lot will be rewarded, albeit one by one. Do line up and claim
your reward.”
After the inmates successfully lined up and stated their prices for fighting in
the trenches, most people have begun to pack up and leave. Some are planning on
being transferred to other offices in other countries.
Later, those returning to Japan have boarded the same Otohime-class. It is
natural those on-board are excited to return to Japan.
Ichika and Mikuni are in the back deck of the Otohime-class. As the ship sails
on, the sun sets before them.
The former then says, “Mikuni-chan, I apologize.”
The latter, confused by what Ichika is apologizing for, asks, “What might it
be, Daremo-sama?”
Ichika replies, “For not telling you I enlisted here, and mostly what happened
in the Medical Room”
May 4, 2017
Back in the Japanese Embassy's Medical Room, Ichika angrily shouts, “Why did
you follow me here, Mikuni-chan? I didn't want you to see me like this!”
Mikuni then says, “I… I didn't want you dying.”
In the present, Mikuni then hugs him, saying, “You don't have to say anymore,
Ichika-sama. I understand it was because of your super soldier enhancements war
is the only way you find satisfaction.”
Ichika then says, “I had no intention to die. All I wanted was relief. The
super soldier serum would not have let me die anyways.”
Watching the two is Cäcilia, with her face having two emotions. She is both
glad and concerned for Ichika and Mikuni.
May 6, 2017
The Otohime-class had finally returned to Japan by arriving at Osaka. Most of
those coming out of the ship are greeted, hugged, and kissed by their loved
ones.
Ichika and Mikuni are with Daisuke, Osamu, Nao, Cäcilia, and Mayumi. It appears
they're talking amongst themselves.
Daisuke then asks, “I'll be stationed in the embassy in Thailand. What are you
guys planning to do now?”
Osamu says, “I'll be applying for piloting Kinzoku Hoheis. What about you two?”
As Osamu faces Nao and Mayumi and asks his question, the two answer. Mayumi
does so first, saying, “Nao will return to Japan. We asked if we can be placed
as re-education facility guards.”
Ichika then says, “I see. Mikuni-chan and I are going home. After that, I have
to prepare a report.”
Mayumi asks, “On what?”
Ichika replies, “The North Korean offensive. I seem to have noticed their
reckless usage of their numbers. It seemed like someone is pulling the strings
in Pyongyang. I mean, there were only one hundred fifty of us stationed. The
North Koreans look liked they really wanted to fight that badly.”
Osamu says, “That much I agree.”
Ichika replies, “Regardless, thinking about this can wait.”
Daisuke says, “We hope to fight alongside you again, uh… ”
Ichika says, “You can call me by my real name. Just keep this amongst
ourselves.”
Ichika then faces Cäcilia and asks, “What about you, Cäcilia? Anything you plan
to do after all of this?”
Cäcilia says, “Not really. I had my fun. We really need to do this again in the
future.”
Ichika replies, “Agreed.”
Cäcilia then says, “I'll be going now.”
Mikuni replies, “Good luck.”
As Ichika and the others watch Cäcilia leave, Ichika is approached by a woman
in Nihon Gaigoku-gun uniform. She appears to be twenty-two years old with
reddish-brown hair and brown eyes.
Noticing her, Ichika asks, “Kondou Gunsou, what might you be doing here?”
Mikuni asks, “Ichika-sama, who's this-”
Mikuni is instead cut off by the woman who had just approached them. She then
says, “I'm Kondou Keiko. Gunsou. Nihon Gaigoku-gun Dai-ichi Jouhou Daitai.”
Ichika then says, “Anyways, what brings you out here?”
Keiko says, “I've been ordered by Sawamura Taishou to give you these files. As
for everyone he-”
Ichika cuts Keiko off, saying, “If they've been sworn to secrecy for my
identity, I'm sure they can keep their mouths shut for this one. Right?”
As Ichika asks “right” while turning his head to Mikuni, Daisuke, Osamu, Nao,
and Mayumi, the five reply, “Right.”
Ichika says, “Good. Please give me the file, Kondou Gunsou.”
Keiko says, “Here it is.”
The file Keiko gives to Ichika just has the name “Cäcilia Runge” in it. Despite
the risks on reading the file, the six are determined to know who their comrade
is.
Ichika says, “I'll open it.”
Ichika then opens up the file. After reading through the entire file, he is
horrified with what he has found in the page he currently in.
Mikuni, concerned for Ichika, asks, “Ichika-sama, what might it be?”
Ichika, still overwhelmed by Cäcilia's identity, says, “You best read it for
yourselves.”
After being given “Cäcilia's” profile, Mikuni begins to read. She is as
surprised as Ichika is.
Daisuke, curious as to why “Cäcilia's” real identity spooks them, begins to
look and asks, “Who might Ca- No! It can't be.”
Elsewhere in Osaka, “Cäcilia” arrives at what appears to be IS Academy. Waiting
for her is Maya Yamada.
Maya says, “You're back, Orimura-sensei.”
“Cäcilia” then removes her wig, proving that Ichika was correct with his
suspicions. His older sister, Chifuyu Orimura, had disguised herself with
nothing but a blonde wig and assumed the name “Cäcilia Runge.” For what reason
did the first Brunhilde of the Mondo Gross IS Tournament have for lying about
her identity and enlisting in the Nihon Gaigoku-gun is unknown. Neither Ichika
nor Misa would know.
Chifuyu then says, “Thanks, Yamada.”
The two then get on the monorail leading to the academy proper. On board, Maya
asks, “How was your reconnaissance mission? Was Orimura-kun safe?”
Chifuyu says, “Although an idiot for not following what I said, he's improved.
He figured out that I was 'Cäcilia.' Don't worry, he won't make this public…
yet.”
Chapter End Notes
     Translations
     Kisama – one of the translations of “you” into Japanese. Mostly, when
     it's shouted, that means the character just cursed. “You bastard/
     bitch” is one way to translate “kisama” in that context.
     Tetsukabuto – “steel helmet,” based on the German translation
     “stahlhelm.”
     Shuuichi – “excellent one”
     Namikawa – “wave river”
     Jun – “pure”
     Matsuda – “pine tree clearing”
     Hinezumi – “fire rat”
     Nao – “honest”
     Kurosawa – “black swamp”
     Daisuke – “big help”
     Fuyutsuki – “winter moon”
     Hiroki – “ample hope”
     Akatsuki – “dawn”
     Osamu – “reign”
     Kaji – “anchor”
     Mayumi – “spindle tree”
     Ishida – “stone ricefield”
     Abunai – “watch out”
     Kikou Ryouhei – “Armor Hunter”
     Kaeru – “frog”
     Imori – “newt”
     Sanshouuo – “salamander”
     Keiko – “square jewel child”
     Kondou – “nearby wisteria”
     Ciabatta (Italian) – “slipper bread”
     A/N:
     Ichika's flashback with Laura and Houki early in the story is the
     ending of the voice drama Bunnies Hopping in the Summer – Sonatina of
     the Black Rabbits, where Ichika and Laura wound up going to the
     Shinonono Shrine, which leads to Houki finding them together and the
     voice drama ending in an altercation with the two. Found in the album
     Infinite Stratos Original Drama Series Vol. 5 Feat. Laura Bodewig.
     Ichika having gone to Resonance happened in Volume 3 of the light
     novels, which was adapted into episode 9 of the animated version.
     “Cäcilia” is basically “Cecilia” in the German language. Both come
     from the gens (family) Caecilii, whose root, “caecus”, which means
     “blind” in Latin.
     Ichika killing the deserting Nihon Gaigoku-gun soldier is a reference
     to the novel/film Un long dimanche de fiançailles (A Very Long
     Engagement), where one French soldier tried to flee to the German
     lines while denouncing his French citizenship. Said French soldier is
     shot by another French soldier in the back.
     Hiroki's problems with his mother is based on Aura Battler Dunbine,
     where the protagonist, Shou Zama, has problems with his mother in
     regards to grades.
     Nao and Mayumi's sex scene is based on the first pages of Futago
     Challenge, which is part of the Toshiue Kanojo Alternative anthology
     of hentai manga. The sex scene in question, involves the usage of a
     strap-on dildo by Maki on Chizuru.
     Ichika killing Paek Sung-jin, his tearful apology for doing so, and
     him finding out his name is a reference to a scene from All Quiet in
     the Western Front. The scene in question is protagonist Paul Bäumer
     killing a French soldier, tearfully apologizing for it, and finding
     out his name.
     The KR-01, what with using the BMP-3's chassis, is based on the
     Hetzer tank destroyer from the Second World War, which was based on
     the chassis of the Panzer 38t light tank. The KR-02 and KR-03 are
     respectively based on the Jadgpanzer IV and Jagdpanther tank
     destroyers. KR being short for “Kikou Ryouhei” is a reference to
     Armor Hunter Mellowlink's Japanese title, Kikou Ryouhei Merourinku.
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