81 Omen (1/2)
Han was in his room reviewing video clips of the second year mock squad battles. Squad 13 was battling against Squad 3. Simon was in the third squad.
There were rumors that there would be many new third year transfers. The higher-ups also observed the youths with a positive outlook. A couple were judged to have problems with teamwork and character, but this flaw was drastically reduced after many mock battles and actual battle experience accrued.
”Simon should know that he can't fight a battle alone by now,” Han mumbled. Simon behaved differently from when Han first met him. He moved in sync with Squad 3 and followed the battle plans.
Between the current second year squads, Squad 3 had the most wins under their belt. They had seven consecutive wins. Han held the record for 8 consecutive wins, but 7 consecutive wins was not anything to look down upon.
”The difference in their military strength is too great.” Han mumbled while watching. Jose and Canute fought courageously, but it was impossible to stop Simon. Simon far surpassed any second year youth's levels.
'Is Kuro still in the medical ward?'
He couldn't see a speck of Kuro anywhere in Squad 13. Squad 13 put up a good fight, but they could not hold out against Squad 3. Han carefully took note of every occurance in the battles.
”They shouldn't have made a frontal attack against Simon. Jose, you should have used any means necessary to avoid a frontal battle- even if it means being petty.”
Han continued to talk to himself while watching the video clips. Simon's strength was on another level. If so, there is no need to fight fair and square. They should look for a method that can increase their chance to win. Fighting head on against a stronger opponent was the same as agreeing to lose.
Di-ring.
Han checked his data bracelet alarm
-You've been summoned.
A map appeared with a point of destination. Han wondered if there was anything he would be needed for these days.
'I can't think of much.'
Han followed the map's direction. It was the buildings designated for the executives. The map zoomed in and marked a room inside of a building. He'd never seen any of the people in this place.
'These should be the so-called higher-ups of Ark.'
Han was summoned to the guest receiving room. The floor was covered with luxurious carpets and rugs; a cup of hot, steaming black tea was already prepared on the table. After a brief moment, a man walked into the room. Han observed the military insignia and reflexively saluted.
”So you're Han. You used to be Squad 13's leader, but now you're one of the reserve troops of third year. I've heard your name more than once. My name is Alexander Lekor. I'm Ark's Chief of Staff.”
Han flinched. The Chief of Staff should be a rank just lower than Commander. He must be one of the few authority figures of Ark.
Alexander sported a savage-looking beard. Yet, he wore a refined set of glasses which helped tame his wild appearance. His giant hand which held a pen showed scars from past battle wounds. Han continued to silently observe Alexander.
”It's a pleasure to meet you. I am Han.”
Alexander stuck out his hand for a handshake. Alexander carried a wild atmosphere which greatly contrasted his actual position.
”Do you like black tea?” Alexander poured a cup for Han.
”This is my first time trying it.” Han took a sip and immediately frowned.
'Instructor Wei and the Chief of Staff… they really enjoy bitterness.'
This was fairly palatable compared to oolong tea, but he really had a difficult time swallowing this sort of drink. Han could only manage a few sips before returning it onto the table. On the other hand, the cookies which accompanied the tea were fairly delicious.
”Do you know why you've been summoned here by me?”
”I do not know.”
”I must make an important decision at the moment.” Alexander said while observing Han. Han remained quiet and waited for his words.
”….Kuro. I'm sure you're somewhat aware. This child lost all will to battle and fight. He can't seem to forgive himself for murdering another soldier. He can't even sleep properly because of the nightmares.”
”As I thought…” Han softly muttered. It would be something Kuro would have a hard time bearing.
”Please try and convince him otherwise. S-ranked psykers are an important asset to our overall military strength. I cannot let a child with limitless potential go to waste. If I look through his progress in Ark, I could see that this could be only achieved by you.”
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”Please let me think about it for a moment.”
Han looked down. The once steaming hot black tea was now cold. What would truly be best for Kuro?
Han gave a nod. He let another executive lead him to Kuro. In the end, he found himself in a room separated by a double mirror. The Chief of Staff and Executive were observing on the other side of the mirror.
Han opened the door and privately conversed with Kuro. Kuro was wearing a white hospital gown.
”Hi, Kuro.” Han said. Kuro looked at Han with eyes set in horrible looking dark circles.
”It's been awhile, have you been well?” Kuro forced himself to sound cheerful. Kuro was shy but was one to laugh frequently. Han noticed that the other's laugh was forced and unnatural immediately.
”It's been a month. I've been well, but you don't look well.”
Kuro's fatigued face was a depressing sight.
”I can't be strong minded like you. I can't help but remember those people when I go to sleep. They said it's my fault that they're dying, they keep whispering things.”
”It wasn't intentional. You weren't thinking to kill them. It just so happened that the missile went in their direction.”
”You sound like you were there. It could be the case. However, it could also mean that I really wished to kill them with the missile as well. It probably was the case. I could have made a different choice at the last moment. They were caught into my viciousness.”
Han opened his eyes and looked to nowhere in particular. Kuro fidgeted with his fingers to cope with his anxiety.
”So? Do you think that is bad? They were trying to kill you. You fought to protect your friends. Nobody will blame you for it.”
”I know, everyone says that to me. I'm sorry. I can't do this anymore. This is the furthest I can go.”
Han couldn't understand Kuro's despair. It seems Kuro's heart was already shut. Han couldn't understand Kuro's pure and gentle heart. Pity against Han's enemies was unnecessary luxury.