DOMINION CONFLICT ONE. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FIFHT EPISODE: "Set and go!". By CAPRICORN. Disclaimer: Characters and backgrounds( with some exceptions) are personal property of Shiroo Masamune Sensei and are legally owned by Seishinsa. They are used without permission, but with the most deeepest respect. Do not sue the writer! It would be useless. Instead pass the script to the genius who is behind the original creation of it in the hope he might actually enjoy it. Have fun! Communications:Praises ,love, money, comments, cute sisters and/or flames are to be sent to fabcasu@tin.it Warning!:There could be problems that rises while writing this fiction too difficult to explain without stopping the plot; for this reason a set of technicals explanation is given at the end of the text. If you find a number into the fiction just check for the note. Overall advise:This text contains explicit sexual situations and (mild) violence scenes; if you do not like or approuve or are not entitled to read it please do not! Just erase this text; if you'll go on have fun, but do not say we did not warn you! -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -Orange, definetly orange, maybe more red, no... Wait...- She pouted looking out from the window and not knowing more. -Take your time, describe it.-He let his arms tighten around the upper part of her torso and enjoyed the weight of her naked body over his. He felt the bed soft under them and the cotton sheet parfumed of their love making, still warm and protective... -Why? You've sawn this show a million time I suppose?- She countered a bit at unease. -You asked me why I like it, I'm trying to make you understand what's different in this.-He smiled and kissed her left ear, resting then his chin over her hair pillow -Now back to it, which colours do you see? Uni sighed and looked out from the window, reclining lightly her head to the left shoulder, due to the position of the window itself; on the right of the bed. She looked at the mixture of colours she saw and tried to understand the riddle solution. -The solution of a problem is not always at the beginning of it, knowing how a thing starts is not always the whole part of the solving process.-He left his right hand wander and rested it on her left breast, while he caressed her left cheeck with the other hand- Maybe you should reconsider the whole thing? She looked around but saw only the room, a pile of discarded clothes at the base of the bed, and the silly light of the day. -Okay, I give up, tell me.-She told on the verge of exasperation. He sighed, smiling slightly- So little patience, are you sure you'll be a good cop? She grumbled- Sandro, my friend for the eternity, minus a quarter... -Minus a quarter?- He asked suspicious. She turned her head ligtly and let her left eye gaze at him slyly- I always leave for myself a little loophole. -Oh!- He nodded understanding. -So, as I was saying, you're spoiling my mood- her eye narrowed- Do you want to? He shook his head and hugged her closer. -Okay, I'll explain, look at this tin orange line between the two big red ones.- He pointed at a portion of the sky in the center of the window. She looked as he continued- Well, it reminds me of your eyes, red as fire, but with a golden light in it, now look at the overall schema, it seems so bright, but even so peaceful... She caressed his left forearm- where are those gallantries bringing us?- She asked curios. He put both hands on her shoulders and turned her gently; she was now resting on his body looking into his eyes; he smiled and touched her nose tip. -It's beautiful, but not as much as you, and it's special, because you're here with me looking at it. She blinked and gazed at his smile.She had to admit it, if he wasn't joking it was really sweet from him. -Really?- She asked unsure.- You mean it really? He nodded and kissed her- I like it when you look so puzzled.-He chuckled- You're so cute. She smiled and kissed him lightly, then on a second thought she hugged him and kissed him more forcefully. As they parted he saw a hint of tears into her eyes. He looked concerned at her- Did I offend you? She shook her head and kissed him again-Dummy. Offend me more often like that. Okay? -As you wish.- He let his arms embrace her again and let her head rest on his chest. Silence fell into the room as the light of the morning filled the room more and more. Then he spoke again. -Uni? -Yes?- She rised her head and looked at him. -I called my mother.- He said quietly. Uni's heart accelerated a bit- And?- She asked tensing. -She said hello to you. Uni's eyes widened, she wasn't sure it was all- And?- She asked again. -That's all, she told me to say to pay attention to each others and that the next time she will speak to you and Anna. She gazed at him- Good news?- She noted unsure. -Maybe, if I know my mother she will need a good moment to understand, but in the end she will give it a try.- He stroke her hair and looked at the little fall of gold between his fingers- I suggest that you don't give to much attention to it and, when she will call, just act as you normally do. -That's all?- She nodded. -Yes, I'm sure all will settle down in the end, trust me. She nodded again and sighed- Are you sure it's allright? I mean... -It would have been worst if you'd not come back, now let all the thing fall and come closer, I need my kitten. She smiled and got up, the white sheets falling like water from her waist, sitting on her heels and resting her bottom on his pelvis; she let her hands caress his hairy chest, liking the sensation of his hard nipples against her palms. The light of the rising sun drew red and orange tatoo's on her alabaster skin. Then only their mouths spoke, silently, as they kissed. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- He looked at the primary screen in front of him. The images of the exterior view of the central police station kept playing on and on. Nothing new, cops coming, cops going, civilian entering , civilian exiting; rather boring if you had asked him. The only thing he was interested in was on the low left side of the building. -Enhance A-10, plus 300%.- he spoke to none in particular. Immediatly a rectangular green fluorescent shape appeared in a point of the screen and grew until it occupied the entire screen. The optical enancing sistem automatically regulated the screen size and now offered the unobstructed view of the entrance of the hangar of the tank police. He smiled and glanced around him, like if he was searching for the approval of someone. His smile faded away as he saw only darkness engulfing him. He looked in front of him again and saw only the five screens, the pricipal in the middle of his field of vision and the four secondaries put around it. The darkness was occasionally broken by some series of random data lists, running for a second and running away not to be seen anymore. The green fluorescent light of a digital chronometer was there to remind him how much time he spent there. Too much, too little... Did not make any sense to him. He concentrated a second and the darkness was immediatly replaced by a view of a mountain and the forest surrounding it. He smiled and listend to the chirping of the birds all around him and concentrated in the sensation that view transmitted to him. He snifled and was grated by the scent of musk and mountain flowers. Suddenly he saw a figure entering his view, he turned his neck to the right and looked in the direction the person came from. It was a young girl, about eighteen years old or so, short blue hairs, with some dark violet shade in it and exotic jewelry tressed in it. Her face was gentle and smiling, wide violet eyes gazed friendly at him and her figure was slim and sinuous to the best of every men's dream. She arrived in front of him and he could examine her body closer, due to the fact she wore some kind of emerald green body, with wide openings on her belly, going down to the beginning of her pubic zone and up to the base of her respectable sized breasts. He looked at her feet and saw a pair of light brown sandals. He decided to ignore her and concentrated himself on the four secondary screens, showing more views of the streets around the city, trying to focalize his mind on something else than her. After a second she spoke- Kondo- sama?- It was a music instead of a voice calling his name- Time to eat and wash, which one would you like first? He rised his gaze and saw her gorgeous body was partially hidden by the screen floating in front of him, he sighed and gave up. -Good morning Seiko, no I'm not hungry, no I don't want to wash, bugger off, will you? The girl did not even flinch, she smiled warmer than before and repeated- Time to eat. I would suggest the bath before, what would you like? -I said no!- He cut down harshly. -Time to eat...- She tried to talk again, but he hissed at her violently. -LET ME ALONE, YOU SLUT !!!- He snarled. Seiko seemed not to mind at all- My, we are nervous today. Why don't you relax with a good shower? I'll cook for you. Come on. She did not move at all, but she seemed determined to bring her important task to an end. He felt the fury overhelm him. He looked icy cold to a secondary screen, the one top right and replaced the images with a serie of data. A fall of red numbers run on the screen and then stopped. The last line read "Access approuved" He looked again at the screen and a cursor appeared , he brought it to a menu list on the bottom of the screen and made his selection. Suddenly Seiko was quiet and silent and her expression became empty, as she silenced herself at once. He nodded, cruely smiling he thought to himself. He brought his attention back to the screens and for a couple of minutes the only sound was the one of the birds, chirping in the back ground. After some time he looked at the digital clock, over the screens and made a quick mental calculation of how much time he did not eat at all. He looked at Seiko again, then looked at the screen in wich the red coloured menu still waited for his orders. A pair of selections and Seiko's eyes suddenly lit themselves again, she smiled. -Feed me.- He rudely ordered. She nodded and turned around, walking away from him. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -Ufff!- Uni plopped into her chair and let her head fall back over her shoulder, letting her gaze wander on the ceiling of the station. She noticed for the first time how high it actually was, she thought a second and concluded that the total height of the building had to be not far from twelve meters or so. She gazed around and saw Asada's figure in front of her. She was sitting at her desk and was resting her head into her arms, leaning against the furniture piece. She seemed like she was sleeeping, but Uni saw she was breathing too quickly to be asleep. She stood up and walked behind her, without the slightest sound; she pocked lightly the blond girl with a finger and obtained a deep groan from her as only reaction. She arched her eyebrows and prodded her again. -Lemme alon!- The muffled answer of Asada left her a little puzzled. She tried for the third time and this time she had her answer... Asada rised and glared at her like she'd wanted to incinerate her-AND WHAT THE HELL WILL IT BE IF I MAY ASK ???!!! Uni jumped back incounsciously, frightened by her violent reaction. Then she reclined her head and smiled widely to her. -My, aren't we a little overreactive today? -SO WHAT?! -I suggest you'll keep your voice down, they are staring at us.- Uni noted blandly. Asada blinked and looked all around; she met more and more gazes. She blushed and moaned, letting her head fall down again into her arms on the desk. Uni stroke her hair- What's on, why don't you tell it to me? Asada shook her head, glaring at her and refusing Uni's kind gesture; The cat girl did not mind, she knew the tank officier was not so hot about phisical contacts beetwen them. She frowned < You do not know what you're missing!> She thought. Asada looked at her and she noticed she was on the verge of crying, her eyes were umid and all the muscles of her face were twitching slightly. Uni sighed, she put her hand into her pocket to take her linen handkerchief and gave it to her. It was something Alessandro had given to her after the first time she cried in his presence; he had understood that she did not like the idea of showing any weakness in front of other people so gave her the tissue to help her to mask it. She wasn't very forward at the idea of lending it to anyone, but Asada was a friend of her, so she made an exception. -Come on, use that and explain yourself.- Asada nodded and took the little handkerchief; she damped her eyes and then blew strongly with her nose into it. Uni was sure she was near to strangle her as she saw what she did with her precious belonging, but contained herself; she shook her head mentally, considering how much she was getting soft with all those stories of civil behaviour and all that crap... -Dank you...- Asada muttered giving her her dripping handkerchief back- Sorry... Uni shook her head and put the tissue back into her pocket, then she neared herself to Asada's desk and sat on it, her perfect legs poking from the side of her dark blue skirt. -Now, if you would mind explain me...- She asked looking at her, tressing her hands on her knees She nodded sighing... -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Leona looked in front of her and saw only the wall she was fixing since the moment she had entered that office. She was not sure she was actually seing it, her gaze was that fixed that she was starting to loose control of her vision. For the hundreth time at least she shuffled nervously her feet. -Stop it.- A low hiss was heard from her side. She blinked and saw a the feature of a muscled chest engulfed into a kevlar vest. She looked a little higher and saw the leathery face of inspector Brenten right over the told chest- You're making me nervous too. Leona examined Brenten for a second or so and had to admit his presence was somehow reassuring right then. Time had passed since Leona was transferred to the tank police from the motorized division of Osaka. The beginning, particularly with commander Brenten, had not been the best. He had nearly fired her twice, humiliated her, graduated her, ditched her, insulted and kicked her in the butt more than any human being could have stood. And all before the lunch pause! After she had obliterated his first tank he had been really near to kill her; she had to admit, after five years of work as a tank officier, that he was right and she had really messed up that time. After that they had began to work together, understanding slowly how to cooperate without killing each other. It wasn't always easy, they both were stubborn, reckless, single minded, fanatics and, in all, nuts as none before. She smiled lightly as she noticed that he shuffled his feet as much as her. She sighed and brought her gaze against in front of her, concentrating her on the figure that sat at a huge, heavy black, wooden desk. The police chief had surely a name, she was convinced of it, but she did not knew it. She worked in the district of Hyogo in Newport City from six years, but he had always been the chief. Period end. She looked at his grey hairs and had to admit that even if he was old, that work was getting the last, best years of his life. She made a mental note of reading the name written on his door... He was looking at a pile of reports, particularly to the one of Asada. He held it in his right hand, flipping the pages, hold together by a metallic clip. He breathed slowly and read in a perfect silence. After a second or so he put the report down and looked in front of him, at the height of Brenten's boots. Leona gulped down She thought taking a deep breath. The chief rised his eyes and gazed at them, looking before at Leona and then at Brenten. -Inspector?- His voice was deep and well modulated. -Sir?- Brenten stiffened immediatly. -Dismissed. -Yessir!- He answered, then after a second blinked under his abitual shades; his voice came out like he was baffled beyond believe- Dismissed sir? -That's what I said- The chief nodded calmly, he checked his watch and noted- If I'm not wrong you're out in thirteen minutes, right? -Uh... Yes... I suppose- he could not get it; anyway he reacted- Very well. Good morning sir! He shot a glance at Leona and saw her look transfixed in front of her, even if a light coat of sweat covered her brow. He shook his head and quickly stept out of the room closing the door behind him. The chief looked at her- At ease Ozaki. Leona was so stiffened from the tension that she had some problems to accomplish his order. She tried her best though. -Thank you, sir. May I speak, sir?- She did not wait for the answer and began hastily- I would note that even if there were surely some mistakes the squad reacted to an unexpected situation of danger to the best of its possibilities, trying to minimize the damages and even succeding in a measure of... The low, well modulated voice of her chief cut her down- I did not tell you you could speak, commander. She swore mentally; she could not permit herself such kind of mistakes. The chief tressed his hands and let them rest on his desk- I must admit that you're right, the squad reacted promptly to a situation of unexpected danger, surely trying to minimize the damages, and operating at the best of their possibilities, both in weapon than in tactics...-Leona permitted herself a light smile.-I surely commend you for your idea of using your vulcan as a road block instead to blasting the bandit with your main cannon... Leona's smile widened a little, maybe things were not that grim after all... -It's a real pity that your team mates had already blasted into the sky at least twenty squared meters of asphalted road with HEAT shells, that you crumbled a helpless car that happened to be on your way and that your vulcan crumbled a very expensive... Uhmmm...- He glanced at a note on his desk- F450 Maserati, the repair of which was already billed to us... Leona froze on place She cried mentally. The chief stopped and looked at her, then he collected the pile of reports and handed them to her. -In all you could do better commander, I hope you'll watch yourself next time. Leona got the reports and stept back waiting for the last piece of her execution. The chief looked at her- And let me tell you something other commander... . -I found, at least, amateurish the way you pumped up your squad, before the beginnig of the patrol. I understand that you needed to explain how important their duty was, but you only succeded in transforming your squad in a pack of ravaging berserkers. Leona nodded, defeated. -Your squad is your thing commander, I only hope the next conversation will be more pleasurable than the one we had. Dismissed. Leona bowed and went for the door. After stepping out from the room she felt ten years older, she could hawe sworn the reports under her left arm were as heavy as a carterpillar dozer... She walked a pair of steps and stopped in front of the wall she faced. Then. Slowly. She started to headbang it; lightly but regularly... Brenten found her like that, as she swore the most unrepeateble insults to herself with the same grace she would have used if she would have been repeating a sutra.1 He was on brink of speaking to her as she stopped, resting her head against the wall and spoke toneless to him- Talk to me, think of me, touch me, look at me, bugger me and I'll call your widow for the identification of your corpse. Brenten froze on place and thought about it a second, then shook his head and pointed with his finger to his watch. Leona nodded and they both walked to the tank hangar. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was dark again around him, he had changed his mind, or either was annoyed from the mountains. Anyway he was again there looking at the screens, and particularly to the one bottom down left. It was a view of the city, from the front seat of a car. He smiled thinking about it, a second gift to the police was on its way to be consigned. He reclined lightly his head and noticed that the car proceeded really slowly on his scheduled path. He arched his eyebrows, what the hell... The car slowed down even more and there was no sign of traffic light or similar things; he was on the verge of calling the car using its inbuilt radio sistem as a shadow surged from the side of it, obscuring his view for a second. He blinked, then realized something really big was passing the car and after a second the unmistakeable sight of a Bonaparte T-2 from Kembishi delined itself as it rumbled in front of the vehicle. He looked at the screen right over the one he was watching and thought something. Immediatly a electronic map of the city appeared, he looked at the screen again and the view zoomed to a little section that was magnified and covered now the screen. A little blue light moved on it. He smiled ; he thought again and a blue line appeared on the map, right under the little blue light; the point seemed to follow the line like it was glued to it. He looked back on the screen and saw that the tank was slightly moving to the right, brushing to the near traffic corridor. He looked to the map again and noticed that the blue point, following the line, was approaching to the section in which the line turned to the left. He smiled, just as scheduled... He looked again to the first screen and joyously noticed that the tank turned to his left and disappeared from his view. He laughed coarsly and nodded as the car run again following its path. He thought a second of it, after all was he that sure? Face it, he was working in most deep secret, without that none noticed any movement or intention, after all who would understand something was happening if no sign was given? he laughed thinking to this picture. Suddenly something stroke him. He blinked in the dark as an idea surged inside his mind, his smile widening on his face as the idea enlarged itself and grew... He made a quick check to each screen and then nodded < Okay, Let's give'em a little help; it'll be fun.>. He looked at the fluorescent green numbers over the screen: 11:37 AM... He hummed and nodded < Another quarter, then we'll start>. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -And that's why you're upset?- Uni widened her eyes and blinked baffled. Asada looked at her disgusted and blushed in rage- You do not find it's enough?- She hissed hurt. Uni was speechless, after a second she scratched her head with her right hand and looked at her- Now let me put it straight, the main sensor sistem is under the driver control, but it has a secondary control sistem in turret... -Yes, and I... -You're telling me that you're in that state because Shimizu screwed up, not looking at those said sensors and you, as gunner had better to check? Asada stopped a second, thinking about it, then she nodded forcefully. Uni widened her eyes again as her ears twitched like she had heard something unusual. -Shimizu screwed up and you're blaming yourself?! Are you nuts?!!- Her voice grew an octave higher. -It's not that easy, I... -No, it's that easy! Danm, Asada what are you charging yourself for? You did what you were ordered to do from Ozaki, Shimizu has better to check the next time! -I'm morally responsible... -You're not his officier! Bear it in your mind, you're his gunner!- Uni jumped down from the desk, really angry now, she looked at her irritated from how her friend was taking the whole thing, she took a breath and started again- Next time you'll check better and nothing will happen! Did I make clear myself? -Uni listen...- Asada tried to calm down her collegue, noticing that more and more glares were attracted from her little show, she blushed embarassed and waved her hands in front of her. Useless, Uni was at full speed and charging. -No! You'll listen! I do not give a damn to what anyone will think about your work, I wrote the report of my sister and saw the recs of your tanks 2, and know you're right! To hell with Shimizu! -Okay, okay, now please, calm down!- Asada frantically looked around, dispensing unsure smiles to everyone- Ozaki may hear you. -TO HELL WITH OZAKI TOO!!! IT'S NOT HER DAMN... -Where should I go if I may ask?- Leona's voice cut into her rage like a knife, from behind her shoulders... Uni went white as a ghost and looked at Asada, freezing on spot- Kill me now! Quickly! Please!- she whispered to her, sweating. Asada gulped down, then hardened her glare and jumped up from the seat- YES? WELL IF IT WAS NOT FOR HER RIGHT ARM, YOU'LL SEE THEM DUMPED INTO THE BIN IN ZERO TIME!! Uni blinked and fumbled- UHHH... Err...- she looked at her upset friend and reclined her head- Eh?- she asked clueless. -DON'T PLAY DUMBASS WITH ME!! THREE STRIKES IN A ROW AND THEY WENT HOME WITHOUT A SINGLE WORD!! YOU THINK YOU'LL DO BETTER THAN THAT?? Leona arrived right then and looked both of them with a mixture of disgust and curiosity- Will someone mind to tell me why the hell you're yelling each other in the middle of the station?- Leona looked at Uni who seemed a marble statue, looking transfixed at Asada with open mouth; she thought a second about it, then put her left hand under her chin and closed it. Uni blinked. Asada blushed and looked at her commander- Sorry, we were speaking of the Sparrows.-Leona blinked- You know! The female softball team of Newport City! Know what? That klutz said we have to fire the pitcher, 'cause she missed a pair of game due to her elbow! Leona looked at her and narrowed her eyes- So, Ozaki is... -Ozaki Saeko, third season with us, seven on ten from the pitch, best shot eighty kph; the pitcher.- Asada nodded like she was speaking of someone she knew very well. -Oh.- Leona looked at Uni and saw she was always staring to her- Well maybe if she's so good it's a pity to fire her, aren't you of that opinion? -Duuuh?- Uni looked at her with glazed look, then came back to reality and flushed- Uh... Yes, guess so... -Very well, now that this little question is settled, where is your sister? -Err... I think she's into the hangar, waiting for you commander...- she answered unsure. -Okay, then let's go, follow me Asada. -Yessir!- Asada nodded. -By the way, next time try to settle your problems with a lower volume, got it?- Leona's voice was a little irritated, but nothing to bother too much about. -Yessir!- they both answered blushing. Leona turned around and went for the hangar; Both Asada and Uni breathed again and they looked at each other, Uni smiled. -I owe you one. -Only one?- Asada wiped the sweat from her face. -Well maybe more than one.- She nodded- Thank you. -Don't mention it.- She started to walk to the hangar door, suddenly she seemed to remember something and turned around- Would you please do me a favour? -Yes?- Uni looked at her- What will it be? -I've got to bring some reports to the traffic section, would you charge yourself with? -Sure thing.- She turned around and looked to Asada's desk; she did not see any report. She was about to turn around as her friend voice entered her ear- On Shinozaki's desk! She looked to the said desk and noticed a huge pile of reports laying on it, forming a little mountain, at least half a meter high... -HEY!- she turned around and looked angryly to where Asada should have been, but suddenly no trace of her could be found. she swore mentally, kicking herself. -I have to admit it, that little brat has some nasty tricks up into her sleeve!- She grumbled. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Alessandro sighed and rubbed his face with both hands, he squeezed his eyes and then opened them again, looking down on his lap, where the magazine he was reading rested. He had not a break in ages, and even if it was only the fourth day of his first holidays in eight years, he felt somehow misplaced. Too much time for himself, he did not knew what to do with it; not that he was bored, not at all. It was only that he was clueless about what to do next. He closed his magazine and put it on his left, on the couch, near his leg. He stood up and put his hands into his pockets, glancing around his flat, searching for something that could catch his attention, nothing did. He rised his left wrist and looked at his watch, 11:50. He sighed again and went for the kitchen, maybe a tea would've helped him finding a solution. He opened the mobile and got the white ceramic teapot, one metallic box with a little red label on it, that brought the writing "Strawberry". He was on right on his way to open the water and fill the metallic- blue steampot, resting on the stove, with water as the door bell rung breacking the silence of the room He turned around looking surprised at the door, who could've been by that hour of the morning? He put down everything and went for it anyway. As he reached for the doorknob he had an esitation and decided too shot a look before, so he looked into the inbuilt peep-hole. He saw and smiled. -Just a second please!- He reached for the lock and unlocked it, opening the wodden frame. She was there, she was simply cladded, a short black skirt and a white blouse, a black leather pouch hung from her left shoulder, down to her ankle. She held tight with both arms a full pile of books and sheets of paper, scribbled with a nervous script style. Her blue clear eyes looked somehow darker today, but her golden hair was nearly shining. She looked at him smiling quietly. -Good morning, O immature one, enter the dome of wisdom.- He smiled widely as he let her enough room to enter bowing lightly his head. Michaela smiled and entered the room- Good morning.- Was everything she said. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- He smiled nodding as he saw the figure of Seiko enter his field of vision, her face immobile and without any hint of expression. She comed to him and stopped in front of him, saying nothing, just staring at him. He looked quickly at his screens and confirmed to himself the position of both cars. The laundry sign proudly displaying in one and the shortcut of a park displaying in the other. He concentrated on the second one. He saw some people walking quietly in front of the monitor and desappearing from it as they walked away. He saw a metallic fountain and some benches in the background. The fountain itself was some sort of modern work, it seemed to him like a slag of molten black metal, fused together to resemble a mitological being or something like that. He did not care, he only saw the million or so of little metallic splitters that where melted into the structure. He thought with delight at the effet of such a mass of little dards, flying free into the air... Uncontrolled,sharp. Deadly... He chuckled evily and saw a little boy, carrying a ball running in front of the car. He thought referred to the child He looked at Seiko and then watched the clock again. 12:00. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Uni puffed loudly, it was true that her creator had gave her a unhuman strenght, but that pile of reports was getting the best out of her and still asked for more. she asked herself as she stopped a second in the middle of a corridor to catch a little breath. She bowed her head to the left and tried to look after the pile that was obscuring her sight. The automatic glass door of the traffic section where in front of her, their logo proudly displayed on them. She gritted her teeth and went on silently praying some supreme being that the doors will work, not obliging her to make the long way trough the witsec section. A low humm answered her as the door slid from their initial position, permitting her to enter. She stopped on place as the loud noise of the section submerged her at once; she blinked and looked behind her, where the doors were already closed. She blinked< It must be one hell of a noise suppressing material.> She thought impressed. She turned around and looked at the room again; it was huge, a lot of desks organized with order and rationality, twenty or maybe more, at first guess. The air was filled with the noise of printers, phones ringing and every sort of voice. Lots of officiers were busy with their work, answering phones, writing frenzily and doing their usual tasks; they were totally absorbed with their occupations. She looked around and thought for a second where she could put down those files; none seemed to look at her nor seemed interested in lending her a hand. While she was absolutely of their opinion, if someone had walked into her section with a pile of that junk she would had run for cover to avoid helping him in that shitty work, she was beginnig to tire and looked nervously around in search of some hint. A young policeman walked in front of her, with a piece of paper in his hand, looking away as if he could have not seen her. -Hey, excuse me!- he walked on not considering her, she gritted her teeth and tried again- I spoke to you, please help me! Uni saw him shoting her a little furtive glance and then pass after her facking he did not hear her; she was persuaded of the opposite and lost her temper... -I'M SPEAKING TO YOU! ARE YOU DEAF, YOU ASSHOLE?! - She turned her head and shot him a very nasty look. -Well? What's this yelling in my section?- A voice cut into her harsh language, Uni bowed her head to the side and saw a fat woman well into her fifties look suspiciously at her. Uni knew her somehow, but could not remember her name; she knew she had something to do with the traffic section and that was all. -Who are you?- she asked not noticing her grades on the uniform. Director Totate arched her eyebrows for this exemplary display of unfrendlieness and hyerarchical takeover, she cleared her troath and looked coldly at her. She recognized her as one of the two androids of the tank police section; could not understand wich of the two though, too similar. She shook her head and adressed her sternly- I'm director Totate, and just for the chronicle I would like you to use a more respectful language when you adress yourself to a superior. Uni was about to explode, but thought that it was not the right thing to do right in that moment, she fought with herself and got to hold the fire under control- Sssooorrry.- She hissed- I've got to give those file to someone here, where will it be?- If she did not knew it was impossible, she would have told that her arms were benumbed... 3 Director Totate looked at her and then to the files; then, slowly, methodically took the one from the top of the pile and looked at it. A second passed as she run her gaze trough the lines of that pile of sheets; Uni fumed... Then, she looked at her and spoke- Bring it to that desk in front of you, that's the one owned by officier Deusu, she know what to do with it. Then she looked again to the file she was holding and turned her back to her, walking quietly away. -Hey!- Uni protested- Could you not help me? Totate did not even turn- I'M helping you, this file is for me and I'm bringing it to my desk- She shot her a ironical glance- Thank you so much.- She smiled and went away. Uni froze for a second, then started to giggle histerically- Asada, my friend, I'm gonna kill you for this!- She directed herself to the told desk. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -No,no,no!- Alessandro leaned to the seat and rubbed his face with both hands- Michaela, it's not like that, I told you before. Michaela bit nervously the base of his pencil and looked at the notes she had scribbled in the sheet in front of her. She stroke her golden hair with her left hand and looked embarassed at him- No? He shook his head and looked at her trying to hold his temper- I told you a million times that a Shiroo curve cannot be negative in his first segment- Michaela blinked he continued- If you put that for every x in that period you've got a fluctuation period of 1 to minus infinitum you're deliberately creating something that... He looked at her glazed eyes and saw that she wasn't understanding at all, he stopped and sighed deeply, then smiled frankly and looked at her- You now, law is not that bad after all. Michaela widened her blue eyes and blushed deeply, he wawed his hand and shook his head- Don't worry, I'm just joking.- she relaxed and smiled sadly. Maybe it was not such a good joke after all... He knew that Michaela's father was a lawyer, a very good one too and that he had longtime hoped that she'd dumped Biotec engineery to follow his path; Michaela was always in very tense relations with him over the subject. He looked at her hand and saw the wedding ring; funny, he always looked there, but did not know why... He tried to change subject to loosen her tension a bit- Did you hear Franz recently?- he asked offhandedly. Michaela blinked caught by surprise- Uh? -Your husband, did you call him?- He was surprised by her reaction, but did not say anything more. -Ah, yes, sure... Er... No I did not hear him from a week, he's gone to a congress in Berlin and will not come back before saturday.- She scratched her head embarassed. -Did I say something wrong?- he asked. -No, no, you only caught me by surprise, that's all. I...- The sound of the phone ringing interrupted her suddenly, she turned her head and then looked at him again, as if she were asking "Well?". He nodded and got up, while he did so he could not help but notice that she seemed somehow relieved by that interruption. He got the receiver and pressed the button on it. -De Rossi, who's there? -Hya handsome!- Anna's voice rung into his ear- Anna here! -Hi darling, what's on? -Am I disturbing you?- she asked joyfully. -No, not at all, I'm happy you called, aren't you with Ozaki? -I'm actually calling you from the tank, Ozaki is buying her lunch, so I'm calling without her knowing- She paused and giggled- By the way, thank you for the lunch, I already ate it, it was delicious. He smiled < Mamma, at least the time you took to teach me your "melanzane alla parmigiana" will not be wasted.> -My pleasure Anna. Michaela blinked and turned to look at him leaning with her arms tho the seat back. -Okay, I called because I've got a problem, we have a extraordinary debriefing session tonight, so we'll be late, could you please cook? -No problem at all, when will you be home? -About ten or so, depends which tube we catch, I'll call if it will be later than that. -Perfect.- He smiled - You owe me one, I did not forget that you're the one that should cook tonight. -I'll make it up to you, believe me- She whispered seductively to him. -I know you will. -Ozaki's coming, see you later honey.- She giggled. -Later, bye. He closed the phone and looked at Michaela who was gazing at him with a transfixed look on her face; he blinked- Uh, what's with you? -Anna? You've got a girlfriend?! Since when?- she was baffled, He blushed. -Er... It's not like that, it's kind of a long history... -Who's that girl? Were does she work? How old is she?- Michaela was excited about that new. He decided that after all he was not ready to begin to explain the Shiroo curves again, so he answered. -She's a police officier, I don't know how old she is.- He rised from the couch and went back for his seat. -What, you have a girlfriend and you do not know when her birthday is?- Michaela was puzzled to say the least. Alessandro esitated a single second, then decided that after all there was not a reason not to tell her the truth. -Michaela, it's not a girl.- He paused then sat down and looked at her- She's an android. Michaela nearly fell from the stool and widened beyond belief her blue eyes. -They'll fall out, if you keep going like that.- He shook his head embarassed. -Hold on a second, would she happen to have...- Michaela touched her hair like she was asking him to find a word she did not know- I mean, strange ears... -Yes, she and her sister, Uni are living with me since sunday.-He looked at her-They are sort of old friends of mine... Michaela narrowed her eyes and then punched him in the right shoulder; he winced. -Ouch! -YOU MONSTER, SO YOU'D UNDERSTOOD WHAT HAPPENED IN THE BAR!! YOU SENT THEM!! -Well, yes, did I do something wrong?- he massed his shoulder, he knew a blue mark would have been there tomorrow. She hit him again and again. -Ouch! Do you mind?!- He protested. -YOU DID NOT EVEN PHONE ME TO KNOW IF I WAS ALL RIGHT?!- She was really furios know, her sweet and musical german tongue had reverted to her ancestors harsh sounding language. He understood he had blew up something and tried to fix it. -I'm sorry, but I knew that you were all right and... -YOU KNEW? -Yes, Uni told me and she told me that you surely did not want to speak with me. Michaela rised her hand to punch him again, suddenly she froze on tracks and blinked twice -Eh? -She told me that those men attacked you, she said that after all I was a man and maybe you would not like to hear one of my "gender" before a pair of days.- He massed his shoulder wincing- She said that you would have searched for me when you'd felt ready for it, she seemed really concerned about you. -She was, what?- Michaela was completely lost by now. He sighed and looked at her- Believe me, I would have called you for sure, I only wanted to give you some time. -Er... Well in that case... You're forgiven.- She calmed down and flushed slightly- Sorry I hit you. -Don't mention it- He hissed sarcastically- It was a pleasure for me. She was silent for a second then looked at him smiling faintly - So she was concerned about me? -He nodded- I know it seems strange, but believe me, an android is... Michaela silenced him with a gesture- Don't worry, if I had such prejudices I would study something different than biotec enginery.- She smiled- I guess I have to tell them thanks, right? -Well, I could tell them if you like. She did not answer and looked the fridge, then she looked at him- What if I cook your dinner? He thought a second then nodded- There's only one problem, I do not have anything to cook. She jumped up- Allright, let's go, we'll go and buy it. Do you come with me? He rised- Sure, why not. -We'll leave everything here, I'll retrieve it later. -What about having lunch with me? -Sure, why not, but you buy. I'll have just the right money for the dinner ingredients. He nodded and went for the doorknob, before opening the door , he retrieved his mac from the vestiary,opening the door on the wall on the right of the exit. -May I ask a question to you?- Michaela looked at him. -Go on.- He answered while he put the mac on. -Do you sleep with both of them? He froze, hit by the direct question- Frau Mayer, is that not a bit, ah... Intrusive? -Maybe, I don't know, well?- Michaela did not give up. -Sorry, but that's personal.- He opened the door and gestured her to exit. She did, but did not loose her target.- Come on, tell me.- She begged childlishly. -Michaela, please, your nose is going to get stuck into the door if you put it so much into my life!- He began to be irritated. -That's not an answer!- She pointed out- Come on answer to your cutest pupil's perverted curiosity. -Oh my God!- He moaned and closed the door behind him. The noise of their conversation faded as they walked away, in the corridor... -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Makina Deusu was a young woman, very well into her twenties, with middle long, light brown hair, a bit over her shoulder and a little well shaped body that could make someone turn at each moment. She was around a meter sixty, fifty seven for precision sake, but she always said sixty. She was a rookie in the station she arrived around a year before with her two friend, officiers Suzushiro and Ito and was assigned to the traffic division, under the command of director Totate. She liked her position, not too much problems to handle, nothing to big, nothing too boring, her chief was satisfied with her work and her friends were with her anytime. Now, if she only had a boyfriend... She looked nervously around herself, just in case director Totate was in sight; she did not see her so she relaxed a bit. Her chief was a person that was a bit pushy in matters of marriage and relationships, always trying to form new couples or so... Makina looked at her desk and noticed that her mug of tea was getting cold, she took it and drank a long sip, then put it down and went back to her work. She took a report and was ready to start as a sound of something that was really similar to a steampot came from her back. She turned around and saw a mountain of files that hovered in front of her, about a meter and half above the floor, panting like there was no tomorrow. She blinked. Then she saw a mass of blond hairs, and a a pair of catlike ears coming out from behind the file mass and she understood that it did not float at all, it was carried by someone. -Something is wrong?- She asked politely. Uni's voice was coarse and irritated- Wrong?, Oh no! I just thought to have a walk after lunch and thought "Hey, why don't I take those with me? Just in case I wanted something to read." Makina blinked again and asked unsure- Is that a joke? -What do you think?!- Uni hissed sarcastically- Anyway, are you officier Deusu? -Yes, it's me. -Very well, director Totate told me to bring you those files, tell me where I could put them down. Makina could absolutely not see Uni's face so she could not see the snarl she had on her lips, thus she behaved as she was trained to. With patience and precision... She took the electronical reboard from her desk and started to type- Let's start then, who are you?. Uni stopped panting and asked baffled- Excuse me? -I asked your name, grade and number. You know for the file. Uni was so surprised she did not even have her usual reflex of calling her with words that would've normally being sentenced with a month of jail if used in the proper occasion- Could we not do it after I've set this on your desk? -Sorry, can't do, if you did so it would mean I've accepted something and have taken it under my responsability from a perfect stranger.It's against the rules. Uni was near to explode.- Look Deusu, I'm really tired and want to put down that thing, I do not remember right now my number and don't even give a damn about that, now tell me where I've got to put that thing down or I'll rip your legs of on spot.- Her voice was cold as Ice and Makina did not have the least doubt that she was not menacing, she was promising. Anyway she was not ready to leave her way of doing. -Well in that case I suggest you bring it back and come after checking your number, so... -I put it on your damned desk.- Uni approached. -No, don't...- Makina desperately tried to avoid it, but a second too late. Uni let the file plop down on the desk, not noticing the mug of tea on it, she upset it and the tea started to spill over the desk, right under the said files. -YOU KLUTZ!- Makina jumped up and started to trow the files away in a desperate attempt to repair to the disaster. Uni understood she had screwed up... Again... She helped the officier in retrieving the paper, dampening them with her some paper sheet Makina retrieved from a drawer of her desk- It's your fault!- she protested. -Yes?! Did I tell you you could put that damn thing down?!- She was furious, she hated disorder. -I was damn tired and you bulshitted me with those nonsenses! -Okay, now I'll go and search for something that damps the tea better than the papers. -I'm back to my section, I wasted enough time!- Uni was angrily walking away. -Oh no, you don't, look at my desk until I return, if it's left alone I'll be in trouble and I think you gave me enough problems for today!- Makina's eyes darted her as she walked hastily away. Uni snarled but did as she was told; she crossed her arms and waited patiently... Well, not that patiently after all... -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- He looked at one of the screens and a electronical model of a telephone appeared on it, he thought again and a set of number were dialed, after a second the deep sound of the opened line entered the darkness around him. He waited. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The phone on the desk of Makina started to ring, Uni ignored it. It rung once, twice, trice, she did not move an inch, she was not interested if it could be important, she did not want to give help to that little brat after that she did what she did. The phone kept on ringing... -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- He began to get nervous what the hell happened from the other side? Why did they not answer? He waited. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Uni began to be irritated by the sound of the phone ringing, she looked around and saw that none seemed interested in answering. She shrugged, after all in the traffic section it had to be normal that a phone rung so often.Anyway, it was really getting on her nerves; she looked at the phone and after a second she gave up, making a disgusted sound she retrieved the phone. -Newport city police.- She said coldly in the phone. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- He was really angry now, what the hell did cop all the day? Booze or something? Why none was answering to the phone? Was that all he would get for the taxes he paid? He was on the verge of letting the plan of playing with the police fall as a the sound of the receiver being pulled up broke the monotony of the opened line... -Newport City police. He blinked a second then let his anger take back- It sure took you time!- he snarled into the phone. -Well, yes.- The voice, a clearly female one, stated from the other side absolutely untouched- What will it be? He was really furios now, what were they doing? Bulshitting him? He decided to go over and do what he planned to do, he took a deep breath and looked at one of the screens, he modified a serie of data and immediatly the sound of the policeman voice was heard only in front of him. He felt a little at unease with that voice coming from everywhere. -I'm here to ask a question, what would you do if you had a emergency class one... -Look.- The voice interrupted him coarsely- I'm not of that section so I cannot help you, I suggest you call some other day, right? Bye! -Hey, wait- He yelled. -Yes, what?- The voice seemed annoyed. -I'm speaking seriously here, I've got a real danger! A second of silence fell, he smiled he thought. The voice spoke a again, between annoyed and exasperated- Like what? -Like five hundred kilos of high impact explosive stuffed into a car and parked somewhere around.- he said letting his word flow like black, sticky venom in a cup. A loud sigh was heard from the other side of the line- Hear that, hear that. I've got the first moron of the day! Did you run away from the asylum tonight?- Her voice was playful- How did you free your arms from the straps to get the phone receiver? Unbearably playful... He exploded- That's not a game! I'm speaking seriously here! -Yes right, that's exactly what I'm saying. -It will be a hell right out there, if I only move a finger and press on the triggering device, and... -Look, I've got something better and surely more interesting than to hear that- She cut him down harshly- Like cleaning W.C.s or getting a lobotomy, I suggest you fuck yourself out of my view and find something better than waste my day! -But... -And If tonight, when you're going to be tired to try to get the attention of someone about your patetic nothingness, and you'll be there alone jacking off between your excrements, I autorise you to remember the sound of my voice so you can get off! Bye darling! The sound of the line was broken, as someone had trown down uncerimoniously the phone receiver. He blinked in the darkness and felt his brow wet with sweat... -How dare you... -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Uni slammed the receiver down, and looked around, just in case someone had heard her. None seemed interested in it though. She saw Makina approaching with a huge pile of paper tissues in her arms. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -How dare you...- he shook his head. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -Something new?- Makina Asked suspiciously. -Naw, just a moron that had time to loose- Uni answered nonchalantly- I thought we were the only one that had problems like that. -You mean with the phone?- Makina started damping the desk, she found out there was not that much damage after all- I could tell you more story than I've got hair on my head. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -How dare you...- He looked at the screens in front of him and the visual of the park appeared. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -No, thanks I'm back in my section- Uni shook her hands disgusted- I've got enough for today! See ya. -'Hope not- Makina whispered between herself. Uni heard her but did not answer and walked away. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -How dare you... He looked at the screen behind the one he opened and that kept on showing images of the park. A grid of datas appeared and then disappeared, leaving a single line in japanese: Activate? Yes/No. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Uni walked in front of the sliding door that divided the traffic section from the rest of the station, she put her hand in her hair and let her golden mass flow free trough her fingers. The door opened and she leaved the noisy room. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -How dare you ... A cursor appeared on the word "Yes". It stood there for an eternity, then, suddenly, flashed. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Yoshi was running after his ball. It was a soccer ball, a good one, imported from Italy by his father who was just coming back from a trip trough Europe for his company. He had brought that for him and said to him- You want to be a real player someday? You'll need training, try it on a real ball. He was glad Otosan had thought about it, if only he did not shoot so hard when they played together... He reached for the ball and took it in his little seven year aged hands; he stopped a second and panted loudly, then he heard a voice calling him from behind. -Yoshi?! He turned and saw his father with his shirt with rolled sleeves and his black trousers wawing at him; he waved back and showed the ball. Then he turned his back to the fountain and run to his father, eager to start again their game. It was then. There was a moment of silence, then a rumble that immediatly changed into a deflagration.A cold wind hit the park with the strenght of a thyphoon and the trees bowed as if they were nothing but grass.The earth shook and the metallic fountain exploded in millions of dark sparkles. Yoshi had just the time to widen his little eyes. Then his universe exploded... -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Uni had just reached her desk as a strange confusion started to run trough the police station, she looked around surprised and saw people running everywhere. Some grabbed a phone and hastily dialed a number, others grabbed their coats and run for the exit. She stood puzzled and suddenly saw a young policeman run up the stairs that separated the terrasse over where her section was and run to her. -Were is Commander Ozaki?!- He nearly screamed. -She's out, you'll better call with the comm.- She answered -Shit!- He turned around and run down from the stairs, jumping over them more than running on. -Wait a second! What's going on?- Uni leaned against the balcony and asked the policeman, still running away. -It's him again! A bomb exploded in the park of Aoshima! We have at least thirty deads and a handfull more of wounded. Uni wistled and went to her desk, waiting for a call from her sister tank, surely Ozaki would have been there in flash. As she sat down she felt something as cold as steel stabber her into her guts. -No...- She said, her mouth dry, her heart racing- No... she shook her head not believing herself. The radio crackled. She did not answer, she just shook her head and stared in front of her. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- He chuckled evily. -Well, well, well, it's more funny than jacking off. He looked at the screen and saw the park from another angle, he could not use the usual camera, it was grilled by the explosion, but this view, more wide gave him a more panoramic sight, more dramatic and full of pathos. Touching, indeed... He looked at his side and saw Seiko looking at him with empty eyes; he ignored her and looked at the screen at his top left. He let a data list fall and suddenly stopped the flow at a precise line. He examined a list of numbers and then grunted nodding, satisfied. -I'll call later, see if now they will listen to me.- He smiled- I bet they will, don't you think so Seiko?. She did not answer and kept staring at him. He did some quick scan at his screens and suddenly she smiled at him. -Yes, they will Kondo- sama. -I'm hungry.- He said not caring to listen her- Feed me. Seiko bowed her head and turned around leaving him into the darkness. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was late in the evening, about six or so, Uni was running from one side to the other of the station, her hearth heavy, her head haching, trying to make some sense to what happened. She did not stop to think a second about the phone call of the morning, she could not help but leave her doubt fall. Was he really the one that set that bomb? Or was it just a coincidence. She found herself in the traffic section fevrishly helping her collegues in the difficult task of coordinate each energy in saving the wounded and bringing back order into the city. Each hour that passed the number of deads and wounded encreased. After the first explosion, the air deplacement had made enough trees fall to block the entrance to that side of the park and a major fire started. Fire guards were already there, but it seemed they had some really nasty problems. It did not rain since a month at least and grass was beginning to die, leaving a yellow, dry path the fire could use to extend itself. Suddenly a voice called from the side of the room- Everyone here! There is a live reportage on NHK! There was a rush as everyone run to the wide screen, resting on the southern wall of the section room. Uni had an esitation, then followed the others under the screen and watched; the pictures were taken from an helicopter, the zone was not sure enough to wander trough. The problem was minimal, they used a wide angle camera with a last generation zooming device. It could've probably picked up a cockroach on Mars. Each corner of the park was framed, each detail given in it's most effective, tear jerking, soul crushing angle. Uni was on the verge of puking. The room was nevertheless silent, while everyone watched at the screen. Manako Totate reentered her section right then and was surprised to found it deserted, she looked around and saw that everyone was near the giant TV wall screen, watching the news; she grumbled and was ready to call'em back to their desks as the phone on Makina's desk started to ring. She looked at the crowd and noticed they were too absorbed to answer or even hear the phone. She grumbled louder and went for it herself; she took it and spoke- Newport City police. May help you? There was a second of silence from the other side of the line, then a cold voice spoke- Where is Deusu Makina? -I'm director Totate.- Manako answered calmly- Officier Deusu is actually busy.- She shot a dark look at the crowd- How could I help? -You cannot, I want Makina. -Sir if it's something personal I suggest you to wait, we have an emergency here and those lines are to be free in case of need. There was a clear note af anger in the reponse- Yes? Well, I caused the emergency, I put the bomb and I warn you...- The voice grew- Bring her to the phone on spot, or as sure as the fact that I'm speaking with you, I'll trigger the second one! Director Totate started to sweat- Wait, What are you talking about, is it some kind of joke? He chuckled- Makina told me the same today, and I showed her I've a bad sense of humor, want me to tell you another joke? Totate turned her look to the screen and saw the news pictures running on and on; it took her a single second to decide she did not want to try her luck. -Wait please, I'll call her.- She tried to keep her voice steady, but a clear hint of tension was noticeable. She put the receiver on her right shoulder and called- Deusu! Come here! Makina turned her head and saw director Totate frenetically gesturing her to approach; she disengaged from the crowd and run to her desk. -Yes director?- She asked. Totate looked at her and quickly choosed her words- Listen Deusu, maybe the one that put the bomb is from the other side of the phone.- She saw her shudder- I do not know why he wants to speak with you, he says he already did before, now be steady, lock him to the phone, I'll call investigatives and let search the call. -But I...- Makina was disoriented. -We do not have time, my child, now talk with him.- Totate offered her the phone with both hands; Makina's hand shook as she took it. -Y...Yes? Deusu Makina here.- She was pale. The voice from the other side snarled- Who the hell are you? -I'm... -No! You're not, tell Makina she has to bring her ass to the phone right now! -But I'm Makina, and I never spoke with you before.- She pointed shyly. -Sure as gold, cause you're not Makina!! -I... -ENOUGH!! I'LL GIVE YOU A SECOND CALL IN A QUARTER, MAKINA'S BETTER BE THERE OR I INCINERATE THIS TOWN TO IT'S FOUNDING, DID I MADE MY SELF CLEAR?!! The phone line fell with the sound of a thunder... -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The news rapidly run trough the police station, within a couple of minutes the whole station was alerted and ready to hear the call. Makina was cracking, she did never face a treath like that and even if she knew she did not answer the phone she tried to remember, on and on, if the unknown voice never ever crossed her path. Uni was leaning against the wall of the entrance, her face grim, her thought miles away from there, she knew who spoke from the other side from the line. She did not tell it though and would not ever to living person; if she would reveal that, she would be held as the only responsible of the whole thing, she would have been fired and maybe back to... She shook her head closing her eyes, trying to chase away the images of her past. None would ever bring her back there, none. Had she to kill for. She rised her gaze and saw the desk of Makina surrounded by people; Makina sat, pale as a ghost, around her vicedirector Madaradabara, his sweat stinking, oily, body almost covering the young officer to Uni's view and director Totate that did her best to boost her confidence. Uni could hear each single word, even if it was six meter or so away. -So, when he'll call you just have to give us the time to find him.- Madaradabara said waving his wide hands- Tell him everything he could want to hear, anything, it does not matter. -But he won't speak to me, I do not know him!- Makina almost cried out. -We have to make a try- Totate touched Makina's right shoulder- We're not sure he's our man but we cannot overlook this possibility. Have faith I... She was cut short from the phone ringing. A quick glance, full of tension run trough the room, Madaradabara looked at a desk a couple of meters away and saw his men with the telephonic tracer nodding; he looked at Makina and pointed at the phone with his chin. Makina slowly took it. -Newport City police. -It's you again?- The voice asked suspiciously from the other side- Where is Makina? -Listen, I swear you I'm Makina and... -Your voice is not the one that I heard! Makina looked at director Totate, she shook her head. Everyone at that desk was hearing the voice, a microphone was set on purpose. -I see you're not interested in my offer, well, maybe I should push a little? -NO WAIT!- Makina lost her control, Totate squeezed her shoulder to sooth her. Makina breathed loudly. -What? -Maybe... Maybe it's the cold.- She tried desperately -The cold?- He was baffled. -I had a cold in those days and... And my voice... You know... He laughed loudly- I see, so you've got colds that settles in a couple of hours, very funny, you must have a hell of medicines there, maybe you should lend me some! -If you want... -NO I DON'T!!!- He snarled, then chuckled coarsely in the line- You are trying to lock me, that's right? Well, tell your companions it's useless. Madaradabara turned his head at once to the desk with the tracer and received head shocks and embarassed glares from his men. He started to sweat. -So, if you do not mind I want to speak with the girl I spoke with today.- He paused- Makina. -But I'm Makina!- She cried. -I see, I will count on five, If Makina is not from the other side before five I guess you'll have to make some overtime hours, five. -You won't do it- Makina tried. -Don't dare me girlie, I always do what I promise, four. -I'm Makina, speak with me! -Three -Please, I could maybe help!- Tears started to flow in her eyes. -Two. -NO PLEASE!!!- Makina jumped up from her seat,cold sweat running from her back. Totate turned to face the screen and imagined another reportage like the one they saw before. -On... -I'm here shithead. Uni's voice was ice cold. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Suddenly Makina found herself without a phone receiver into her hand, she was crying, shaking and sweating, but did not more hear that voice directly into her head, instead she heard it from the microphone on her desk. She looked up and saw Uni, not directly facing her, looking to some point on the wall at her left. Uni did not seem comfortable at all. Why had she done it? Why did she did something that stupid, she would've been blasted into space for this, she knew it. Maybe she just could not stand that voice in her ears. >From the other side of the line there was a long silence, then a coarse chuckle. -So here are you Makina. -I'm not Makina, my name is Uni, what's yours?- She continued coldly. -It does not matter, for instance, from now on, I ask YOU answer. Did I made myself clear?- He snarled in the phone. Uni fought the urge of answering harshly- Yes. -Why did you answer today if you're not Makina? -I'm from another section, I told it to you, remember? He did not answer, as he tried to remember- Must have slipped of my mind...- He paused again- Anyway, you did not answer to me today. -What are you speaking of?- Uni's arched her eyebrows. Totate and Madaradabara did the same. -What do you do with a class one emergency? Uni turned around and faced director Totate; even if she was simply speechless from surprise she found the strenght to nod to her. -Well the procedure is... -I'm not interested in procedures! I'm speacking of what YOU would do!! Answer now! Uni sighed lightly and let her thoughts run free into her mind; she asked herself again why she'd done something so stupid . She did not find an answer tough. She looked around herself and saw only glares in her direction, full of surprise and awaiting. She could not stand those glares so she turned her back to everyone and embraced herself with her left arm. She needed something to hang to, and herself was better than nothing. -Well? I'm waiting!- The voice brought her back to reality. -Are you the C-one?- She asked, her mouth dry. -Yes. I am... -Well, I suppose I will do anything you ask to stop you. Madaradabara reacted to that last sentence and was ready to tear the phone away from her, but felt something touching his arm and turned to face director Totate. She was craddling Makina, that cried in her shoulder and shock her head looking him into the eyes. He hung his head in defeat and leaned his hands against the desk. A loud laughter crackled trough the microphone- I like your way of thinking Uni. We call it a day, I'll let hear something of myself in future, you'll better be there and listen well. Questions? -Yes, why are you doing that? -Because there is no interest in a game that you play alone, and a stupid opponent is better than nothing. -You think we are that stupid?- She was toneless, almost mechanic in her talking. -You are that stupid that I could slip not one but three carbombs and you simply do not have a clue!- He cried. -Why do you think we'll play along? -Because you need to play! Because you hope, beg that I give you a trace to work on! Because there is a car that is loaded with explosive, I do not even remember how much I put in, around, somewhere into this city and you need me to find it! That and the others I will send! -There will be others?- Uni asked gulping. The entire departement imitated her. -Yes.- That was the answer.- Now I've got to go; I don't want to risk that your stupid friends actually trace me. -Only one last thing, why me? -Because you seem to have guts. You're not like that wimp of Deusu or that stickler for red tape of Totate! You had the balls to call me "shithead" before, even if you're not in the position to do it again, I warn you! A hint of a smile appeared on Uni's lips, immediatly erased. -So? -So if there is someone I want to play with it's you, I like your style! Now I'm busy, I've got to go. I think there will be no problem in future if I would speak with you, right? She was silent for a second. -Well?- He asked sternly. -Not the least. The phone line dropped dead. Uni turned around and slowly, almost as the entire weight of the universe had been put on the back of her right hand, put the receiver back. The pact was sealed. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Technical notes: 1 A Sutra is a kind of buddistic prayer. 2 Uni writes the reports of her sister and thus has to control the records, both visual and electronical of her tank. There is not a reason why she should look the one of Asada, maybe she was just curious. 3 That's absolutely impossible, what Uni is feeling is just an internal signal that her arms are sending to her to notify their stress.