Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

Hinami’s POV

“Hey, Hinami-chan….are you ok?” Inko asked the ghoul as she and the rest of her friends placed their trays at her table. Once again, they surprised her with their kindness and willingness to be with her after everything that had happen. She didn’t know what she did to deserve their kindness, but she was never going to let it go….she didn’t want to be alone again.

“Ah, Inko-chan! You surprised me that’s all. But yes, I’m fine.” Hinami waved her hand over bandaged left arm where Onee-san grabbed a bit too tightly after Touka left her and Calm to save Ayato. “I actually should be asking all of you that. Are any of you hurt? You did go up against a Martian without much of….our help.” Hinami muttered as everyone one took a seat around her. It didn’t escape her notice that Okisuke still sat away from her, but what did surprise her was that Nina took a seat next to her instead of Inko. Even though she didn’t know the whole story, she still saw what happened on the bridge and the monsters they could become, so why wasn’t she more wary of her?! Why was she flashing a smile at her? Before her brain could explode at the strange outcome, Inaho spoke up.

“None of us were hurt. A bit bruised from trying to hold up against the Martian, but nothing bad.” Inaho answered, taking a sip of his drink, ignoring the shocked look from Hinami and glares from Inko and Okisuke.

“Bruised!”

“And basically did it all on his own.” Okisuke grumbled as he stabbed his ‘mystery’ meat from the cafeteria. “One day man, you’re going to give us a heart attack with all the risks you take.”

“Risks!?”

“But I wasn’t on my own.” Inaho defended himself, “I had you covering me, Inko to damage him, and Ayato-san to finish the job. It would have ended well enough if the other ship hadn’t tried to kill Ayato-san.” Hinami had to wince at the memory. Even though they didn’t know exactly how dangerous they were, the other humans were still capable of recognizing that they were just as dangerous as the Martians and needed to be exterminated. If Inaho hadn’t interfered, Touka-nee and Ayato might not be with them today.

“But still man, you scared us shitless with that stunt.” Clam muttered shaking his head. “That’s not like you dude. What gotten into you?”

“Nothing’s gotten into me.” Inaho muttered, “I understood the risks, but since we did survive one Martian attack, it was more likely that we would survive another one.”

“Please don’t do something as reckless as that without me—us around.” Hinami quickly fixed her mistake as the group gave her a confused look. For some reason, that didn’t settle well with her….did they not think she was capable of protecting them? Did they think of her as weak as well? “I don’t want to see you guys hurt.”

“Speaking of injuries….I heard that Ayato got pretty hurt. Is that why he’s not here?” Inko asked as she looked around the table for the indigo haired ghoul. Hinami had to blink several times to see if that was indeed Inko asking about Ayato’s wellbeing and not Touka-nee or Onee-san. Apparently she wasn’t the only one having those thoughts.

“You’re actually concerned for that ghou—guy!” Okisuke choked, appearing just as shocked as Hinami was, “The one who looks like he’ll kill us in our sleep?”

“I kind of have to agree with Okisuke on that…” Calm muttered, his fork clattering on the table, “Why are you so worried about him? He’s kinda a dick….not that I mean anything by it Hinami-chan—”

“It’s alright…” Hinami mumbled, still staring wide eye at Inko who was growing redder by the minute. “He’s not an easy person to get along with in the beginning….I had thought he was a dick when I first met him as well….”

“See! Hinami called him a dick! And she never swears!” Calm cried out. “Are you sure—”

“Who’s Ayato?” Nina asked, interrupting Calm and saving—or maybe placing Inko in a more embarrassing position—Inko momentarily. “I don’t think I’ve met him…”

“He’s a family friend of mine…” Hinami began as everyone else stared at her to explain her relative. After all, she had a feeling none of the boys—maybe minus Inaho—would say anything positive about him. “He was on the bridge when Onee-san…went um….a bit unstable. He was protecting Nao-kun, Rayet-san and the pri—foreign girl.” That’s when Nina’s face lit up.

“Oh that guy! Well he looks nice enough. He even helped save Inaho twice now! You guys should be ashamed for badmouthing a friend of Hinami’s.” The blonde human scolded the teenage boys who stared at her with mouths gaping open.

“Um Nina…you haven’t talked to him. He hates our guts and even calls us humans as if we’re some sort of lowlife to him.” Calm tired to reason with the blonde girl. Still, Nina glared at him.

“Actions speak louder than words Calm! If he really hated us, he wouldn’t have helped save Inaho, or everyone on the boat.”

But that’s because Nii-san kind of threaten him to help…. Hinami couldn’t help but think. She didn’t dare to voice her thoughts though; it was nice to see some support for Ayato…even if he semi didn’t deserve it.

“See! It’s not weird at all!” Inko huffed, her blush finally going away. “I was merely concerned for a guy who helped saved our lives, that’s all.”

“I’ll make sure to tell that to my brother then.” Another voice interrupted their conversation, scaring Inko and the rest of Hinami’s friends. However, Hinami’s face lit up as she saw who it was.

“Touka-nee! How are you doing?” The youngest ghoul asked as she stood up and gave her sister figure a hug.

How are your wounds healing up?

“Fine, a bit sore but nothing painful.” Touka shrugged as she patted Hinami lightly on the head, giving her a small smile.

Good. The food helped.

“And our dear Miko-chan is finally getting help from our dear local school doctor!” Hide happily cried out as he leaned over Touka’s shoulder, giving the teens a large smile; completely ignoring the irritated look from Touka. Hinami had to stifle a giggle; while it was nice to return to some normality, now was not the time to go down memory lane. Clearing her throat, she caught Hide’s attention.

“Onee-san, she’s….how is she….”

“She’s doing ok. Yuki-chan got to her and managed to calm her down enough to take her back to Dr. Yagarai. She’s with Dr. Yagarai, Yuki-chan, Kaneki, and Lt. Marito; they’re going through her treatment options.” Hide sighed heavily, as Hinami gasped a little. Treatment options? Were Miko’s memories that bad that she needed a therapist? And was Dr. Yagarai the only person that could help? Not that he wasn’t capable—she knew her school doctor could do wonders—but she was worried for him. What if Miko had an episode and accidentally hurt Dr. Yagarai?

“Yuki-nee calmed her down?” Inaho asked, interrupting Hinami from thinking any further darker thoughts. As she looked up, she saw her friends looking at Inaho with confusion as well. “How did she manage that?”

“Who knows?” Hide shrugged as he finally lifted himself off Touka. “When I found them, Miko-chan was crying and holding on Yuki-chan. I haven’t asked the details, but I think they managed to work something out.” Hinami could tell that he was hiding something, but she would ask him later.

“That’s good. Yuki-nee needed more female friends.” Inaho commented, earning sputters from his friends, a curious look from Touka, and a shit eating grin from Hide.

“Your sister would hit you with her exo-skeleton arm if she heard you say that.” Hinami sighed, giving the dark brunette boy a small smile as well.

“That wouldn’t be wise of her, it take longer for her arm to heal then.” The table erupted into chuckles before suddenly static echoed throughout the mess room. Everyone in the building immediately quieted down as they stared at the TVs around them, hoping to get a better picture as static dominated the screen at first.

As the picture started to clear up, a young man probably in his twenties or so, with surprisingly straight and bright blonde hair—Hinami heard Touka muttering something about a wig—showed up and the whispers began to grow.

“Isn’t that—”

“Why is he on the television?”

“Mommy, what’s going on?”

“Who the hell is that guy?” Touka asked Hide as he surprisingly gave his full attention to the person on the screen. “And is everyone either looking scared as fuck, or relieved?”

“That….is the one of, I guess you can say speaker, for the Emperor of Mars.”Hide muttered as he clenched his fists. “I guess, we’re too lowly for the Emperor to even make an appearance on television for us. But if he’s on television, then that means the Emperor has made his decision about what to do after the attack and assassination of the Princess of Vers. He is the only one right now who can order the Orbital Knights to cease their attacks or…”

“Rain hell on us…” Touka finished for Hide, earning a nod from him. From the corner of her eye, Hinami could see her friends also waiting in anticipation for the Emperor’s speaker announcement. After all, if he declares war, then they would be drafted as soldiers and there would be a good chance that some of them would die….

Not if I’m with them! Hinami thought to herself, frowning at her own weak behavior. I’m also a student who trained using the Sleipnir! If they don’t want me as a ghoul fighter, then I can fight in a Kataphrakt! I will not abandon my friends!

“I wouldn’t get my hopes up high for a cease fire though….” Hide muttered softly for Touka and her only to hear. “The Emperor thinks his granddaughter is dead and if we can’t show him proof that she’s alive….”

“Never thought you would be the most pessimistic out of all of us.” Touka snorted as she lightly punched his shoulder. “Relax, Miko and Ken wouldn’t—will not, let anyone on this ship get hurt.”

“Yeah I guess you’re right.” Hide chuckled, before quieting down as the emperor’s speaker opened his mouth.

“Attention, foolish people of planet Earth.”

“Really? Can’t he get more creative than that?” Touka scoffed as she took a seat down next to Hinami, folding her arms as if she wasn’t the least bit interested. “I mean—”

“Touka-nee!” Hinami placed a finger on her lips and thankfully, the older ghoul complied and quietly listened to the rest of the message, but Hinami had missed the entire name of the Emperor.

“—Empire has issued a declaration of a temporary cease fire to the united armed forces of Earth.”

“Well, good thing that you aren’t always right.” Touka sighed as more people began to whisper amongst themselves or sighed in relief. “Otherwise, we would have had people panicking.”

“But that doesn’t make sense…” Hide muttered as he scratched his head in confusion. “He has all the reason to go to war with them, and obviously they have some serious anti-Terran thing going on….” From the corner of her eye, Hinami noticed the disguised princess slowly walking towards her; pleading with her eyes to talk to the ghoul in private. Realizing that it had to do with the announcement, Hinami gave a quick nod to Touka—who had also noticed the princess—and without saying a word, Touka stood up and gave her coverage from her friends.

 Without much effort, Hinami slowly stepped away from her group—which wasn’t hard considering they were having a deep discussion with Hide about the outcome and Touka effecting blocking their view of her.  However, there were too many eyes and ears in the mess hall, and they would need to go to a quieter place to make sure no one would see or over hear them.

“So you know what’s going on then?” Hinami asked as she grabbed the princess’s arm and led them away from the growing noise in the mess hall. For a couple of seconds, the Princess sputtered at the sudden change of direction but soon calmed herself down enough to answer the ghoul’s question.

“Yes….Grandfather must have realized what the Orbital Knights were doing and is trying to put a stop to it.” She sighed as they entered an empty room.

“The Emperor?” Hinami asked, wondering if an aged man would really stop ambitious, self centered evil humans from terrorizing a planet with his word alone. “Will they listen to him? They don’t look the type to listen to a higher up when there’s so much to gain for themselves.”

“I’m sure they will!” The princess cried out. “They’re Orbital Knights! They’re loyal to him and never done anything without his consent.”

“Except for that time when they tried to kill you, Rayet, and Onee-san at the bridge.” Hinami muttered as she lifted a finger to count the offences, “when they attacked us last night with no real lead on your whereabouts, or when they landed on several heavily populated cities within an hour after your announced assassination. Did your Grandfather tell them to do that?” At this, the princess looked sicken at facts present to her.

“I…no….Grandfather wouldn’t have—”

“Then they did it for themselves.” Hinami sighed. “Look, I don’t mean to be….judgmental, because that’s the last thing I want to do, trust me. But you have to realize that their actions….their disregard for Terrans means that….they won’t give damn about your grandfather’s words. They want to conquer Earth. They want to get rid of Terrans so bad, that I’m sure they’ll do anything in their power to do so.”

“But….not all of them share that view…” The princess hesitated, but it seemed that she didn’t truly believe her own words as she bit her lips.

At least she knows that some Orbital Knights are dangerous. That should make our job of protecting her a little bit easier. Hinami thought smiling a bit.

“Well, as long as you understand that there are at least some with that view, then that’s all we can ask for. They’re the ones we need to make sure that they do not find out that you’re still alive.” The princess could only nod and that was enough for Hinami. “If that’s all you need, then I have to go and check up on Onee-san—”

“Is it ok for me to visit her?” The blond—brunette asked suddenly as she clasped her hands around Hinami’s. “I…I never got to thank her for saving my life and I need to apologize for causing such a horrible…..transformation to happen to her.”

“I um…”

“Please, Fueguchi-san! I need to express my gratitude and—”

“I’m afraid that’s not possible.” Inaho’s voice echoed in the room, surprising both girls—Hinami a bit less as she was used to Inaho’s sudden appearances—before Hinami raised an eyebrow. “She’s not allowed any visitors until she’s cleared by Dr. Yagarai.”

“Wait what?” Hinami asked as her thoughts began to jumble together. Why was he here, when did had time to visit Miko, how did he find them? “Why…..when….how—”

“Touka-san was asking for you. Something about training?” Inaho answered as he stood at the doorway, impassive as always. “As to the visit, I didn’t. Ken-san came over and told us the news. He also told me in private that the princess was not allowed to visit Miko-san under any circumstances.”

“But why? All I want—”

“You still don’t have complete control over the Aldnoah Drive.” Hinami muttered, her eyes widening in realization. “Even though you’re not in your princess mode, so to speak, you’re still leaking out that power which won’t end well for Onee-san since she’s still recovering from your latest attack.” The princess looked stricken.

“But I’m not even sure how I’m leaking out the Aldnoah! We never had this problem before! I don’t know what to do to reel it in!”

“So until you do, then it’s probably for the best that you avoid Onee-san and Nii-san. They’re the ones who get more affected than we do.” Hinami sighed. “Sorry.”

“I see….if you shall excuse me, I must find Eddelrittuo before my disappearance makes her worry even more.” The princess mumbled as she exited the room, muttering a barely audible ‘excuse me’ to Inaho before disappearing completely leaving Inaho and Hinami alone.

“So….what have you been up to?” Hinami asked, a weary smile painted on her lips as she gave her full attention to Inaho. “Well besides eavesdropping.” With that, Inaho gave the ghoul a small smile.

“You already knew I was there.”

“Actually, I knew when you stared to follow me.” Hinami lied as she skipped over to Inaho and gave him a smile. “You need to step up your sneaking skills.”

“You were distracted with the princess to even notice me.” Inaho retorted, giving a minuscule smile in return as they walked out of the hallway. Hinami scoffed.

“Whatever makes you sleep better. So what was your reason to sneak up on us? You really fancy the Princess that much?” Hinami teased her friend, grinning widely as his heart rate sped up just a little. Oh the joy of super hearing.

“My heart rate’s only speeding up because your Miko’s brother and Hide-san are heading our way.” Inaho muttered, causing Hinami to snap her head away from Inaho—not missing his smirk, damn him—and gave her guardians a large smile. It also didn’t escape her notice that a guard was standing just a couple feet away from them. They were still not fully trusted by the captain it seems.

“Nii-san! Hide-nii! I was just about to look for you!” Hinami smiled as Ken and Hide caught up to them.

“Actually, we’re heading up for another meeting with the Captain.” Hide muttered, rubbing his head sheepishly.

“But it’s not about our situation.” Ken quickly interrupted as he saw Hinami’s stricken face. “Hide has something to show the Captain. Nothing to worry about.”

“Oh….then Onee-san—”

“Is recovering at this moment.” Ken smiled softly at the young ghoul. “She’s not supposed to have visitors for a while, but once Dr. Yagarai gives the ok, you can finally say hi to her.”

“Alright…..” Hinami muttered softly.

“Oh, and I nearly forgot.” Ken muttered as he turned to Inaho. “The Captain wanted to speak to you and your friend Inko before meeting up with us. I don’t know what she wanted to talk about but you should head up. We already told Inko that we would find you and send you off.” Inaho raised an eyebrow at that.

“The captain?”

“Maybe you’ll get an award!” Hide smiled brightly as he hung off Ken’s shoulder. “I mean you did spectacularly fighting against the Martians.”

“Ah, I see.” Inaho muttered before giving Hinami a nod. “I guess I’ll meet up with you later?”

“Yeah! Maybe we can finally play that card game Calm has been itching to play.” Hinami chuckled. “I’ll beat you for sure!”

“I’m not so sure about that.” Inaho chuckled softly as he began to walk away. “You still need to work on your poker face.”

“You’re lucky you’re walking away!” Hinami called out, “I would prove you wrong!”

“Well, your acting skills are sure getting better.” Hide smiled as Inaho finally exited their hearing and seeing range. “You sure you don’t want to prove just how good of a poker face you can have when you actually put your mind to it?”

“Then where would the fun be if I always won.” Hinami chuckled. “And it’s always funny to see their reactions when I ‘win’ with sheer luck.”

“Our dear Miko-chan as taught you too well.” Hide sighed dramatically before hugging his boyfriend. “Ken! What has your sister done to our poor innocent Hinami-chan!?” The young ghoul had to chuckle as her brother figure rolled his eyes at Hide’s behavior before giving his attention to her.

“Ignoring Hide’s comment, remember that girl, Rayet?” Ken asked and immediately Hinami’s eyes briefly flashed towards the guard behind the two and she was a bit thankful that he wasn’t staring at her when she looked.

So Nii-san wants to know how I’ve done with my mission without the guard knowing too much….that would actually be a bit difficult if I had anything. Hinami thought dejectedly as she quickly remembered her mission.

The youngest ghoul felt guilty for having nothing for her brother. Of course she remembered the task at hand. However, she had been so busy that she hadn’t had any time to spend with the Martian girl. Other than greeting her and trying to make her feel welcomed at her table, she had absolutely made no progress. It seemed even Ken could sense her turmoil inside of her and sighed.

“Don’t worry about it too much. I know how much has been going on, and I know that Rayet girl has a lot on her mind as well. It may take some time for the two of you to actually warm up to each other.” The white haired ghoul smiled softly as he patted her shoulder. “But if you happen to know her hang out spot, then it might be a bit easier to hang out with her….”

“But I have no clue where she likes to hang out.” Hinami muttered before lowering her voice even further for her brother to only hear, “There are too many scents on this boat that it’s hard to focus on one and sometimes it’s about a day old.”

“Well then it’s good thing that you have awesome brothers looking out for you.” Hide smiled as he gave her a slip of paper discreetly as the guard finally spared them a glance. “Otherwise, we would be laughing at you.”

“That’s not funny.” Hinami pouted as Hide chuckled. “I would have found her….eventually….”

“Well, when you do, make sure to tell us so I can win the bet with Touka.” Hide smiled before pushing Ken away from the younger Ghoul. “Come on, Ken! We need to get going otherwise we’ll be late!”

“I suppose so.” Ken chuckled softly before giving Hinami a small wave.”Good luck Hinami.” Only when they, along with their guard, were out of her sight, did Hinami open the slip of paper and read Hide’s messy hand writing.

I’ve seen her sitting about the storage unit on the third floor a lot until she’s either hungry, there’s an attack or, it’s time for sleep. She’s very good at evading the soldiers who come to check up on that room so you may have your work cut out for you. But you might want to get a move on that mission. The faster she’s comfortable around you, the less she’ll be suspicious of you. Best of luck! Hide.

“I might as well go and check it out.” Hinami mumbled as she stuffed the note into her pocket—not before ripping it into several unreadable pieces—and headed towards the storage unit, hopping that perhaps, she could finally get the girl to open up to her. It would be nice to have another friend on this boat that knew from the get go about her ghoul status.

Marito’s POV Couple of days later

“So…..how’s Miko doing?” The lieutenant asked as he and his….friend—he didn’t deserve to have another best friend, not after what happened—stood at the door way of the infirmary where the ghoul kid—Aya something—and Miko were staying at. After he had helped bring Miko back with Yuki’s help, Miko, while regaining consciousness, had said nothing as she sat on the bed and had been like that for a while. Yuki tried to talk to her but all she got was small nods or head shakes. Eventually, Yuki had to leave for her duties but promised to visit the next day, which brought a tiny smile to the ex cafe owner.

Today, Marito decided to visit the ex cafe owner and was pleasantly surprised to see an exhausted Yuki taking a nap on Miko’s bed, next to her. Not that she minded apparently as she caressed Yuki’s head periodically and smiled softly. Other than those small moments, it was a bit unnerving to see the normally cheerful café owner so….

Lifeless….

“Well, her wounds from fighting the second Martian Kataphrakt are healing rather remarkably. She would be discharged from the infirmary yesterday if I wasn’t worried about her sanity.” Dr. Yagarai sighed heavily as he wrote several things down on his chart. He tried to peak at it, but he was smacked in the head with the clip board.

“Hey! What was that for?!”

“Patient confidentiality.” The doctor merely replied before sighing heavily. “Besides….don’t you already know what happened to Miko? I heard you were there at the meeting with Miko’s family when they explained her situation.”

“How did you hear about that?” Marito grumbled as he looked away.

“Yuki told me before she fell asleep.” The doctor merely replied before sighing heavily. “You want to talk to Miko don’t you.” Marito shifted his stance as he refused to look at the doctor while he answered. The damn bastard could read his thoughts a bit too well sometimes.

“Of course—”

“To see if she feels the same guilt as you do I presume.” Yagarai cut off Marito immediately silencing the soldier.

Of course he would bring that up….. Marito thought as he gave Miko another glance—her semi-lifeless eyes staring right back at him—and wondered if Miko really did understand him when they had their talks at the bar. When she told him how she knew what it felt like to lose a friend….or….was it all a lie? She certainly didn’t act like the ghost of her friend haunted her, reminding her of her failures. Taunting him that he should have died with him that day….she seemed perfectly normal but yet….staring at her now….she certainly looked like she was bearing a weight too great for her to carry.

“Lieutenant?” The doctor asked once more, bringing the soldier out of his thoughts.

“Sins that you’ve committed cling to your soul and haunt you forever.  And the sins that have gone unpunished aren’t forgiven until you die…” He muttered as he unconsciously brought out the source of his pain and misery. A dog tag—while mostly wiped cleaned of dirt there was a smudge of blood on the back of it….HIS blood—dangled from his hand as he stared at it. Only one name stared back at him with an identification number that he could not forget even if he wanted to. John Humeray

Do you feel like this Miko? How many sins have you committed because you were forced into a different lifestyle? Forced to kill….how do you bear it? How? How do you continue to smile when you know it was by your hands that you will never see your best friend again?

“Your hands are clean Marito…..” Miko’s soft spoken words were barely missed by the two of them. As Marito quickly turned around to face her, he was shocked to see her eyes briefly flash blue before changing back to the silver color he’d known for four years.

It was probably the lights. Marito thought as he shook his head, already putting the mysterious phenomenon behind him. However, before he could even ask Miko what she meant—and how much she actually heard, she spoke up once more.

“I’ve read the report….Hide managed to hack into the military to get it….and…..I don’t think….no….I know your hands are clean for his death….there was nothing you could do for him….you gave him peace…” Miko smiled softly before her face twisted painfully.

“Me on the other hand……my sins can never be forgiven….not even when I die….”

“Tch. You think you got it bad, then I’m twice as cursed as you.” The other occupant in the room spoke up, nearly scaring Marito as he nearly forgot about the other ghoul.  To his and Yagarai’s astonishment, Ayato calmly walked on his legs—he was sure that one of them was torn off and the other was broken so how—towards Miko before stopping right beside her. Miko merely stared at Ayato before flinching as Ayato flicked her forehead. “Oi! None of that ‘he’s not right shit!’ I’ve been in the ghoul business longer than you have bitch and I can tell you that you certainly aren’t the cold hearted monster you think you are. You can’t give yourself that much credit.” He scoffed as Miko rubbed her forehead.

“That was a bit mean.” Miko muttered before giving him a pained smile. “But you forget Ayato….I was in the CCG….and our greatest sin was the weapon we carried…..the bodies we destroyed….the lives we didn’t even give a second thought about….” As Marito looked at the younger ghoul, he was surprised to see him tensing up, shivering even. However, there wasn’t a shed of sympathy in his eyes….instead there was pure anger.

Holy shit, he certainly did a 180 on his attitude. Just what the hell did Miko mean by her weapon? Why is that affecting Ayato so much? Marito thought as Ayato continue to shake in rage, his fingers balling into fists as Miko continued.

“Where’s my—”

“Your fucking brother has it locked in one of the storage rooms.” Ayato hissed as he grabbed the collar of her shirt. Surprisingly Yuki didn’t wake up with the commotion despite being right next to the action. “Why the fuck do you still even have one of those fucking shits!”

“Ayato-kun!” Yagarai cried out as he rushed towards the two, “Stop—”

“You stay the fuck out of this!” Ayato growled out, glaring angrily at both the doctor and Marito. Unsurprisingly Yagarai halted his steps and Marito couldn’t blame him. Staring back at them were two bitch black eyes with red pupils….something the Terran soldier thought only appeared in works of fictions.

Just like Hinami……no matter how docile they look, once those eyes come out…..I can’t help but feel like I’m staring into my death….. Marito gulped as Ayato’s eye triggered his flight or fight response and honestly, he didn’t think any of those options would even help him.

“I’ll ask one more time….why the fuck do you still have it.” Ayato hissed as he turned his attention back to the bed ridden café owner. For a couple of seconds Miko did not reply which caused Ayato to tighten his grip on her clothing. “WHY!” He cried, shaking Miko for good measure. To everyone’s surprise, while her eyes remained emotionless, tears fell from her left eye only.

“Trisha made me promise that I would keep her mother safe……” She whispered, “It was only fair since I was the one who placed her there….”

What the hell is she even talking about? Marito thought as Ayato’s eyes widen in shock and slowly let go of Miko’s shirt just as Yuki began to stir awake. And now she wakes up!? Just how deep of a sleeper is she?

“You’re pathetic…..” Ayato muttered as he let go of Miko completely. “Why do I even waste my breath on you.”

“I wonder that sometimes as well….” Miko sighed before smiling sadly at Yuki who turned her head to face the café owner. Meanwhile, Ayato took the opportunity to walk towards them, only pausing to glare at Marito as he blocked the doorway.

“Move.” He hissed, “Or I’ll make you.” Without saying a word, Marito stepped aside and let the ghoul step outside. He didn’t let him go without a glare of his own though.

“Hmmm…..Miko?” Yuki’s voice turned his attention back towards the girls, giving Ayato time to escape.

“Have a nice nap Yuki-chan?” Miko asked giving a very strained smile to Yuki. For a moment Yuki nodded sleepily before she sat straight up, blushing heavily as she realized where she was.

“Wahhhhh! I over slept! I was supposed to meet with the engineering team—”

“You still have time. Miko asked me to make sure I woke you up before your meeting.” Yagarai answered, "You still have about thirty minutes before you need to go.”

“You should get changed.” Miko muttered—Marito noted that it was still void of any emotion—“You have drool on your shirt.”

“WAHH!!” Yuki cried as she looked down at her white dress shirt and tried to cover her stain. “Why didn’t you move my head?!”

“You were cute snoring like that.” Miko replied, giving a miniscule smirk to Yuki. Marito would have missed it if he wasn’t staring at her….now that sounded like he was a stalker….

“Snoring and drooling isn’t cute!” Yuki cried out before rolling out of bed. “Forget that memory! All of you!” Marito couldn’t help but chuckle at his co-workers antics. Even Miko couldn’t help but let out a chuckle of her own before she cut it off when she realized that Yagarai was giving her a smile.

“Miko—”

“You should get going. We know how long it takes for you to change.” Miko muttered as she looked away from Yuki’s questioning stare.  Yuki looked like she wanted to ask her if something was wrong, but a shake from Yagarai stopped her.

Huh? Why would you stop her? Yuki’s the only one that can actually get her to talk? And isn’t that what you’re trying to do? Get her to talk so you can do your doctor thing?

“Um…..I suppose.” Yuki sighed as she rolled out of their shared bed, trying to smooth out her too wrinkled dress shirt, before giving Miko one last look as she left the infirmary.

“Now that she’s out of hearing range…I believe it’s probably best if we start with the sessions now Yagarai-san….” Miko muttered out, turning her emotionless face towards them and Marito couldn’t help but shiver. “The faster we talk…..I don’t want to spend too much time remembering my past. You understand right?”

“Yes of course.” Yagarai sighed as he fixed his glasses before turning towards Marito. “I think—”

“Yeah, yeah. I know when I’m not needed.” Marito sighed heavily as he turned around and waved lazily towards them. “Not to mention I have to find that brat now.”

“He means well Marito.” Miko called out softly to him. “While he has no right to inflict his anger onto the people of Earth who have not wronged him in any way…..know that it’s a result of the past that humans….that I have been a part of. He’s still healing….all of us…so please…..don’t hold too much grudge against him.”

“Too much?” Marito snorted, smiling softly to himself as Miko’s personality scared the surface of her cold demeanor. “So a bit is alright?”

“Of course. He’s a brat still.” While her voice still lacked any emotion, Marito chuckled at her attempt to seem alright to Yagarai, but it was soon replaced with a pained smile.

She’s still fighting that’s for sure….but just how long can she continue though? It seems that she has more skeletons in her closet than me….I just hope that it just won’t overwhelm her…

“Now…..where do you want to begin?” Marito heard Yagarai ask, his voice getting softer as he walked away from the infirmary.

“….The beginning….”

Rayet’s POV

How can everyone just believe that the Martian Emperor would just have a temporary cease fire…. Rayet thought angrily as she walked down an abandoned hallway, all too eager to leave the mess hall where the announcement was broadcasted.

Martians can’t be trusted no matter what! Angrily she wiped away the tears that were threatening to fall from her eyes as brief flashes of the Martian Kataphrakt entered her mind. The breeze that came over her as the arm swung down and….

“Ah! Rayet! I thought I would find you here!” A cheerful voiced chimed, saving Rayet from reliving her nightmare once more. Turning around, Rayet couldn’t help but let her heart race as she saw who the voice belonged to.

It’s the ghoul…Hinami….Rayet thought as she quickly turned around and tried to walk ay faster. She had a good guess as to why she was meeting up with her now of all times. And no matter how innocent she may look to everyone else….she wouldn’t fall for the same tricks. After all, she just wanted to make sure that she wouldn’t try to assassinate the princess at this crucial point.

As if we could be friends….we are not even the same species…

“Rayet! Wait for me!” Hinami called out as she grabbed Rayet’s arm, since her hands were currently tucked away in her pocket. “Didn’t you hear me call out to you?”

“Stop acting like you’re my friend.” Rayet grumbled, halting to a stop. There was no use trying to pry away her hands from Hinami, if she could physically dent a metal SUV meant to take missiles without getting too badly injured then breaking a bone would be like snapping a toothpick with her fingers. “I know why you’re trying to hang out with me.”

“And as I told you before, I won’t treat you like an enemy unless you do something to warrant my interest.” Hinami sighed heavily. For a moment, Rayet could have sworn she saw something close to sadness flickering in Hinami’s eyes, but she quickly closed them, giving her an eye smile instead. “I know I haven’t gotten to hang out with you for the past couple of days…I would like to make it up to you if you don’t mind.”

“It’s not like I have any choice do I?” Rayet grumbled as she pulled her arm away—she would never mention aloud how relieved she was to be away from her grasp—and leaned against the wall.

“Well….I really would like to be friends….” The brunette whispered shyly as she adverted her gaze surprising the Martin.

Damn, I forgot how human she could look. Rayet gulped as she tried to shake the guilt away. Even though she had no regal feel about her when she was in her normal state, Hinami had moments where she just seemed too pure for the world and anything done wrong to her would feel wrong. Unlike the damn princess, Hinami deserved to have people shield her from the world…..only when she acted human like this.

I can’t forget that she’s not human. That this is all an act. Rayet furiously reminded herself. She doesn’t know pain like I do, she can’t possibly understand what it’s like to be left alone.

“Why me? Why don’t you be friends with the damn princess like everyone else is?” Rayet scoffed. “And don’t you have your other friends to hang out with?”

“Well…..even though they claim they still want to be friends…..after what happened a couple days ago, some are wary, some in denial, and Inaho is either stupid or too kind and accepts everything without much thought.” Hinami sighed. “Or he’s just trying to figure out everything on his own like he always does.”

“I’ll ask again. Why me?” This time the ghoul—Hinami—bit her lip in hesitation before sighing.

“Well…..I thought it would be nice to have someone to talk to….who has been through a similar situation.”

Huh? Rayet dumbly thought and she could have sworn that her jaw dropped slightly. What does she mean by similar situation? What does she even mean?! Just then she remembered the last conversation they had and it immediately made sense.

“Witnessing the death of your parent is traumatizing enough. I know.”

“You also saw your parents murdered?” Rayet asked slowly earning a nod from Hinami. That would make sense. The only real siblings from their odd group was the indigo ill tempered siblings and the white haired freaks. The blonde boy and Hinami were the only ones that stood out. Even though she had seen the oddball family act like older siblings to Hinami, Rayet could tell she missed her family…her biological family especially whenever she interacted with the older white haired male.

“It happened about five years ago….give or take. I don’t really remember the exact date…..it was really dark times for me and my family.” Hinami muttered as she unconsciously played with a stand of her hair, looking more vulnerable than ever. She lost the playful look in her eyes and looked a lot older than her age. “My family….we were one of the few peaceful ghouls….father and mother weren’t strong enough to hunt so we had to get our food source from a second party.”

Rayet couldn’t help but scrunch her in disgust. Of course she knew about their diet when she had spied on them couple days ago. She didn’t really believe it at the time, but as she saw their abilities, it was hard to deny the fact that they were….different…..and so having a very different diet would makes sense as well.

“And why are you telling me this outright? It’s disgusting.” Rayet grumbled as she tucked her hands into her pockets as far as she could.

“Well….you found out right off the bat that I’m a ghoul…so I don’t want to keep any secrets from you.” Hinami muttered, “My friends…I know it’s hard for them to listen when I talk about stuff like this so I avoid it.”

“And you think I’m comfortable? You’re talking about eating human flesh which I have plenty. It’s going to freak me out.” Rayet scowled at Hinami which caused her to blush in embarrassment.

“I’m sorry. I had just hoped….never mind. I’ll refrain from my eating habits around you.” Hinami muttered before taking a deep breath. “Anyways….my family….we weren’t very powerful and my mother always hated violence. However, with my father being the only available ghoul doctor around for several cities….he got caught up in some bad….it eventually caught up to him and my father was murdered by the CCG because he happened to know the ghoul they were after.”

“Well….sorry for your loss but….”

That’s not the same as losing your parent right before your eyes. Rayet wanted to continue but she held her tongue as she saw Hinami’s eyes began to gloss over.

“The CCG eventually found my mother and me and…..my mother sacrificed herself to give me a chance to escape….”

“So they killed her.” Rayet finished just as Hinami took a deep shuddering breath.

“Yes…..there was nothing I could do……I was barely ten at the time. There was no way I could take on highly skilled investigators and come out alive.” Hinami closed her eyes and bit her lip as tears escaped. “The last image I have of my mother is her smile she gave me….before…..”

How lucky of her…. Rayet thought as Hinami struggled to keep in her tears. She saw her mother’s face before she died….but then isn’t that even worse? To know that even when your parents die they still love you even though they know there is nothing you could do to even save them? Proving that you were as weak as you thought?

“Did you get revenge?” Rayet asked, biting her lip in worry. She had to know if the ache in her heart would ever go away once she defeated the Martians for taking her father’s life. After all, he had done exactly what he was told to, and murder was the thanks he got? That wasn’t fair. Martians weren’t fair. They already took down the one responsible for physically responsible for his death, but if she killed the one who was pulling the strings of the operation, could she find peace?

“No…..no matter what, I couldn’t bring myself to kill the man who killed my parents…” Hinami muttered sadly as she wiped her tears away. Immediately anger flared up in Rayet and before she knew it, she was grabbing Hinami’s uniform and slammed her into the wall. Surprisingly, she didn’t even try to fight back even though she had the strength to do so.

“Why the hell didn’t you! You claim you want to be stronger but the fact that you let that man who murdered your parents walk away proves that you are weak! You could have proved to your parents that you were strong enough by killing the man responsible for their death! You had the ability!”

I didn’t

“You had enough reason too!”

I’m still confused if I even have a right to help the Terrans when I’m technically their sworn enemy

“So why didn’t you?!”

I needed to know if the pain truly goes away! Rayet panted heavily as she finished her rant. For a couple of minutes neither of them said a word and just as Rayet was about to give up getting answer, the girl in her grasp softly spoke up.

“I had seen too much violence and death….I just wanted it to go away. Mother and Father always wanted to live peacefully and well….I hoped that if I could forgive and forget, then maybe…..maybe I could make them happy.”

“Forgive and forget!” Rayet growled as her anger rose back up and she pushed all her weight onto Hinami as she glared angrily at her. “Just how pathetic are you?! How can you forgive and forget murderers! They don’t deserve any forgiveness! They deserve to rot in hell for the rest of eternity for their fucking crimes!”

“Then what about their families!” Hinami suddenly yelled back, glaring just as intensely as Rayet had. “If we kill their family, they’ll believe they have the right to kill and more people suffer! It’s just an endless circle of hate! I can’t stand that!”

“So you rather let a murderer roam free to kill other innocents!” Rayet shouted, her voice cracking in the end. How could a girl who wanted nothing more than to protect her friend let a murder go free. Willing to look the other way when it could bite her in ass later? It just didn’t make sense to Rayet. “Where’s the justice in that!?”

“I didn’t say it was right! I am saying that there has to be another way than revenge!” Hinami cried, “If Touka-nee didn’t kill that investigator for killing Mother then his daughter wouldn’t….his daughter wouldn’t have tried to look for revenge in Onee-san….” Hinami shuttered as tears once again fell from her eyes. “If we hadn’t sought out for revenge, Onee-san wouldn’t have been hurt!” With that last statement, Hinami shoved Rayet back and the Martian girl did nothing to stop it.

After all, her reasons made more sense now that she had a story to go with it. And she understood it in a way. If she were to kill the damn Martian in charge of the war, she would have probably upset a lot of people, fueling the war even further. However, that didn’t mean it was going to be easy to accept and she was not as caring as the teenager was.

How  funny. The cannibal is more human than an actual human. Rayet scoffed as she turned around, refusing to meet Hinami’s eyes. She was scared that the brunette would see her turmoil and would try to get her to back out of her revenge. She couldn’t—wouldn’t—let Hinami’s words make her second guess her decision about taking revenge. After all, it’s the least she could do for her father.

“I’m not as kind as you are. I have to avenge my father.”

“I’m not saying that those men deserve kindness….but I fear that you’ll let your anger out on the people you may associate to your father’s killer…” Hinami muttered sadly and Rayet knew who she was talking about.

Like the princess.

“As if she’s truly innocent.” She spat as she walked away. However before she even got a couple steps in, a hand grabbed hers. As she turned around to yell at Hinami to leave her alone, she was suddenly met with watery brown eyes and a quivering frown.

“I’m sorry…..but….whenever I think of Mother….I….I….can you at least give me….a shoulder….”

To cry on Rayet thought sadly as the teenager took her silence as an acceptance and stuffed her face into her shoulder and began to sob quietly. Slowly Rayet slid to the floor with Hinami and for several minutes, the two girls sat in the middle of the hallway, both crying. One silently and the other quietly.

Maybe….maybe I can connect with her.

Ken’s POV

“It seems whenever I speak with the two of you, there’s always something new you must bring up.” The captain muttered as their bodyguard finally left them alone with the female captain and her second in command. Hide took no time to chuckle sheepishly at Magbaredge which she did not find amusing. Kaneki had to elbow his boyfriend in the gut to actually get the conversation going.

“Right. Sorry. No jokes….or laughs,” Hide answered, “Unless they’re needed” He added as an afterthought earning a heavy sigh from the half ghoul. He knew his boyfriend was trying to ease up some tension but there was a separate time for that.

“What Hide is trying to say, there’s a reason why we are having a briefing without the rest of our group. We believe it would be beneficial to you and also provide us some more….leniency with your body guards.” Ken finished earning a raised eyebrow from both women. 

“That is a pretty bold comment you have just made.” The brunette comment as she narrowed her eyes at the two of them. Kaneki wasn’t even fazed by it, he had seen worse with his sister and ghouls were so much better at intimidating than humans. “And if I don’t find your…..reason for this visit promising enough, then I can very well say that you were trying to blackmail me? If that’s the case, then I would have no problem leaving you at the next port to survive on your own.”

“You need us Captain. We’re your secret weapon so to speak.” Kaneki couldn’t help but smirk. “I don’t think you would leave us where the Martians could easily recruit us once they see what a valuable source we are.”

How disgusting. I hate it when I have to refer us as objects instead of humans. Everyone has already been through enough of that.

“Not to mention, it also provides my boyfriend and our family’s existence a little bit more coverage.” Hide smiled as he pulled out a small USB. “After all, I’m sure explaining how you manage to defeat several Kataphrakts with minimal casualties without sounding too loony would be hard to explain.” Kaneki couldn’t help but softly chuckle at the annoyed look the captain shot at Hide before reeling in the noise as the second in command glared at him instead.

“What is that?”

“This, my dear captain Magbaredge is your holy grail. And will also make your commanders very proud and help your explanations without giving us away.” Hide smiled, “So can I borrow your laptop?”

“You haven’t answered my question Hideyoshi. What do you hav—” This time, Kaneki didn’t bother hiding the chuckle as he saw both the captain and her second gap openly at the screen Hide showed them. His boyfriend gave him a lopsided smile before mouthing, ‘I told ya’

“Where did you even get these?!” The black haired women cried out as Magbaredge began to scroll through the laptop. “None of the United Forces could even crack the firewall that the Orbital knights placed around the Earth’s atmosphere!”

Because my boyfriend is a genius and thus the Martians never really stood a chance against him when it came to cyber space.

“Well, I don’t like bragging. But I’m really good with computers.” Hide smiled brightly. “So….with his information, can we get some leniency?”

“The fact that you have information on several orbital knights including their Kataphrakts makes you more suspicious, Hideyoshi” Magbaredge  muttered as she looked up from the laptop. “How can you prove that you are not a Martian trying to sabotage the UE?”

“That….I don’t really have an answer for.” Hide chuckled nervously. “I guess you have to take my word for it.”

That’s not what you would want to say to a captain Hide. Even I know that. Kaneki couldn’t help but sigh as the Captain sighed at Hide’s reasoning.

“You either care very little for the lives you’re placing at stake should your findings prove to be wrong, or your very confident in your skill and thus have no reason to doubt.” The brunette woman muttered as she held her gaze with Hide. Hide only smiled at her.

“What do you think?”

“That you are sometimes irresponsible and unreasonable cute when you want to be.” Kaneki muttered, hoping that his boyfriend didn’t hear him. However a peck on the cheek and a small eep from the black haired woman only proved that he wasn’t quiet enough.

“Thanks for thinking that I was cute. I thought the years would have diminished my looks.” Hide chuckled as he snuggled into his boyfriend’s shoulder. Kaneki couldn’t help but sigh and pet Hide’s soft bleached hair. Even though it probably wasn’t the best place for affection, he had missed four years of affection from his boyfriend and every moment counted. He be damned if people tried to make them stop.

“I will think about your suggestion.” Captain Magbaredge finally muttered surprising Kaneki as he thought it would take at least thirty minutes to convince them. “And if you are correct with your information….you may have bought Earth a couple more years against the Martians.”

“It’s nothing. I’m pretty sure even without this information, you would have been fine. Inaho makes a spectacular strategist.” Hide smiled brightly which even Kaneki couldn’t help but agree. In the small time he had worked with the teenager, he knew Inaho was an invaluable asset to the Terrans. If the Martian discover just how brilliant Inaho was, there would be a huge target on the human’s back; either for him to be killed, or to force him to work for the Martians.

Which none of us will let happen. Inaho has a lot of powerful people that will do anything to make sure he stays safe. Kaneki chuckled softly as he thought of the furious faces of Hide, Hinami and Miko standing in front of Inaho.

“You think so as well?”

“Spending four years around that kid makes me believe that if we hadn’t came here, you still would have been in good hands. No doubt.” Hide chuckled as he placed his hands behind his head.

“If you don’t mind, I would also like to recommend Hide to be your Intel specialist. “ Kaneki spoke up, surprising the Captain at his sudden request and while he couldn’t see Hide’s face fully, he could tell that he was rolling his eyes. Of course Hide would figure out what Kaneki planned for him as the war continued.  Cue the whining.

“Ken! Come on! You are seriously not going there are you?” Hide complained as he glared at his boyfriend. “I’m am not some damsel in distress!”

“Hide, I almost lost you four years ago. I’m going to do anything I can to make sure you’re safe.” The half ghoul  sighed heavily, as Hide began to punch his chest.

“SO! That does not mean you can make decisions for me!”

“Care to explain what you mean?”  The captain snapped, silencing the both of them instantly.  However, before Hide could open his mouth and complain even further Kaneki spoke up.  

“I wish for Hide to join your Intel group if war is to break out and a draft is issued. I rather not have him piloting a Kataphrakt.”

“Hey! I want to drive one of those suckers! Do you know how many times Hinami told me how awesome it feels!” Hide whined before glaring at his boyfriend. “Not to mention you never told me about your decision to put me out of the front lines.”

“You would have fought against my decision.”

“And you think I won’t fight against your decision because we’re in front of the captain? Ken, you are—”

“As much as I would love to hear your lover’s quarrel, I will assure you Kaneki-san I have an idea where I would place Hideyoshi –san and it will not be at the front lines. His mind is too valuable to let it go to waste.” The captain interrupted Hide causing both of them to stare at her in surprise. While he was glad that he didn’t need to persuade the Captain much, he feared that Hide would think that he had talked to the Captain before to get her to agree to his decision. And if that was the case….an angry Hide was not someone he wanted to see after four years.

“Wait what?!” Hide cried out, his eyes wide in surprise. “Then does that mean you actually value my brains!? You actually think I’m smart enough to help plan out attacks and counter attacks!?”

Wait…..he’s actually glad? He’s happy? What the hell?! Kaneki thought as he stared at his boyfriend in surprise.  He expected more outbursts, resentment, but not….this.

“I will not let you down at all! I promise you that I will give you my best to take down the Martians!” Hide smiled brightly before laughing sheepishly. “Sorry. It’s just not a lot of people think highly of me so it’s kinds like a compliment.” However a side glare to the half ghoul meant that he still wasn’t off the hook.

Of course it wasn’t going to be that simple Kaneki sighed to himself as the captain and Hide continued to talk. Now what’s a good way to apologize to him? I can’t exactly buy him gifts, I’m not really that great at making things….maybe coffee? And maybe I can get Touka to help me make the latte art? Wait is there enough coffee beans to make coffee? Maybe make up se—NO! Do not go there damn it!

Thankfully, he was saved from his more perverted thoughts when a siren went off, blaring loudly throughout the ship.

“This isn’t good….” Kaneki muttered as a nearby screen showed a large aircraft heading straight towards them. Next to him, he could see Hide’s calculating gaze before he muttered out sadly,

“Damn, that means I won the bet.”

Hinami’s POV

“An attack!?” The half ghoul cried as the alarm blared throughout the ship. Separating herself from Rayet—while blushing bright red as she realized the position she was in—Hinami stood up just as the ship shook sending Rayet falling after she had just stood up.

It sounds much like the Martian Inaho and Touka-nee took on back at the pier. Hinami thought as she easily hear the familiar humming of the laser sword. But why is he back?  Is he out for revenge or does he know that the Princess is alive and is going to finish the job?

“I knew the Martians wouldn’t just sit back.” Rayet grumbled out as she painfully stood up, rubbing her side that she had landed on. “It’s just like them to attack whenever they please.”

“We have to stop them….” Hinami muttered to herself. “But….I don’t know where the rest of my family is…..”

“Then it’s just going to be the two of us unless the rest decide to join us.” Ayato’s voice barely carried over the sirens but it was just enough for both girls to hear him. Even though Rayet tensed up at the sight of Ayato, Hinami couldn’t help but relax. If he was up and about then that meant his injuries were healed enough and could help her fend off the Martian until back up arrived in the form of her family or Inaho and her friends.

“Ayato! You’re healed!” Hinami smiled as she practically jumped towards him and gave him a hug which she could tell he didn’t want at all.

“To some extent.” He grunted as he pushed the brunette ghoul off. “Leg’s a bit messed up….but…” A sinister smirk made its way onto the indigo haired ghoul giving Hinami shivers. Sometimes she forgot that he was part of Aogiri at such a young age and his experience with battles clearly outshined hers. “It should be fine enough for me to finally kill that bastard.”

“Just….don’t push yourself too much…” Hinami sighed heavily before turning to Rayet who was watching their interaction closely. “Rayet….get somewhere safe. I don’t want you to get hurt. It…it may get a bit….ugly.”

“More like destructive.” Ayato sneered. “I have to get him back for putting Touka in such a shitty mess.” Shaking her head at his words, she did her best to give Rayet a comforting smile.

“Just….make sure to stay away from the hull….and outside in general.” Hinami laughed sheepishly before Ayato began to pull her away.

“If you don’t want to get left behind, hurry the fuck up.”  Hinami couldn’t help but let a small smile dance on her lips. The fact that he was waiting for her meant that he knew when he had to ask for help…that he trusted her enough to help him defeat the Martian. That mean in his eyes….

I’m strong enough to help.

Dr. Yagarai POV

“What’s going on?” Miko asked, as she slowly looked over his shoulder just as several solders ran past his medical room. “Are….are we being  attacked?”

“….probably.” Dr. Yagarai chose his words carefully as he saw the café owner tensed up considerably. Her face began to pale and her breathing came in short pants that could easily cause her to hyperventilate. This wasn’t good. “But don’t worry.  You’re safe in here.”

“But….Ken…Hide…Hinami….Yomo-san, Amon they….” Dr. Yagarai placed a comforting hand on her shoulder and gave it a comforting squeeze. Thankfully it calmed her enough that she wasn’t breathing too rapidly.

“They’re fine. The CCG isn’t going to come for them or you.”

“But…”

“Miko….everything is going to be alright. You have to believe me. I’m your friend….I would never hurt you intentionally.” After a couple of seconds, Miko gave the doctor a shaky but small nod earning a smile from the doctor in return. While they haven’t been able to make a lot of progress—Miko tended to space out for several minutes before continuing—he did learn enough to get an idea what Miko went through in her childhood that made her make the decision to join one of the most dangerous occupations in her world.

“Right….you’re right…..sorry. It’s just….explosions don’t give me a good memory.” Miko muttered as she hugged herself tightly just as the ship rocked. “It’s not Arima….it’s not Arima…” She chanted as she unconsciously leaned into the doctor’s shoulder. She didn’t even lift her head as a new figure appeared in the room. Yagarai couldn’t say he was surprise that one of the ghouls, Touka if he remembered her name correctly, came in panting heavily. If Miko went through her one of her episodes, he as sure as hell couldn’t stop or subdue her. That was most likely the reason the indigo women was here.

“She hasn’t lost it yet?” She asked as she gave Miko a wary look. Yagarai shook his head as the ship rocked once more causing Miko to clutch tightly at his white coat. “Damn….she’s going have an episode if the ship continues to get hit.” She growled as she quickly shut the door, muting the sirens enough for his ears not to be ringing.  “Keep doing your doctor shit and make sure she doesn’t start hallucinating.” Touka ordered as she began moving the beds, providing a lot more room to maneuver through—

Or to fight in…. Yagarai thought sadly as she rubbed Miko’s back, whispering words of comfort. He didn’t know if they got to her though seeing that she kept chanting Arima’s name. Yagarai winced again as the ship rocked with another explosion, this time far closer than he wanted for comfort.

“No! Please Arima!” Miko cried out as she dove deeper into Yagarai’s shoulder hugging him tightly in fright. As he looked up, he was surprised to see Touka’s black and red eyes staring determinedly at the shaking women in his arms. He couldn’t help but wrap his arms even tighter around Miko, hoping at the indigo haired teen would see that he had it under control. That she didn’t need to fight or to put Miko in pain.

“Step away from Miko-san Doctor.” Touka growled as she released her red and fiery wing—Kagune—tainting the room a blood red color. “She’s going to lose it.”

“She won’t. You don’t have to hurt her.” Yagarai muttered, giving a glare—most likely very weak compared to hers—to the young indigo haired women. She didn’t even flinch, if anything her glare only deepened.

“Move! She’s hurting you!” Yagarai couldn’t deny that fact since Miko’s fingers were digging into his skin and her mouth was slowly nipping at his neck. And if it was any other situation, he would be blushing bright red at the intimate posture but with her whispering, ‘must fight…must eat….meat….human…..no….hungry’ he knew it was anything but intimate. In fact, a normal person would probably be scared for their life since Miko could easily tear through their throat in less than a second.

The fact that she’s trying her hardest to fight her urge to eat me shows that she’s doing her best to fight her nightmares.  If Touka attacks her now, there’s a good chance that Miko will definitely lose it and I can’t let that happen!

“She won’t lose it!”  He argued again, tightening his hold on Miko, daring Touka to come closer. “So please….step back. I’ll handle it.” However, luck wasn’t on his side as the ship shook once more, the explosion echoing loudly, causing Miko to freeze before screaming as red tentacles erupted from her back and squirmed wildly in the air.

Oh crap…. Yagarai thought as the tentacles quickly threw Touka away from them as she tired to intervene—and she made a dent in the wall, A DENT—before the tentacles focused on him. Miko’s head was still hidden from his view so she most likely didn’t know just what was going on, if anything it was just her instinct trying to protect her.

“Crap.” Yagarai muttered as the tentacles suddenly shot straight towards him, most likely to end his life.

I’m sorry I let you down Miko. I’m so sorry.

“DOCTOR!”

Ayato’s POV

“Are you ok?” the brunette ghoul beside him asked as they ran past several civilians running from the most damaged part of the ship. As much as they wanted to take one of the exits that led directly straight up to the hull of the ship, it had been destroyed and they were forced to find another way up. And it was just annoying how many humans were running deeper into the ship. As if that would help them, the explosions erupting around them could easily reach them if the battle dragged on even longer.

“I’m fine. God do you fucking have to butt into everything?” He snapped, trying his hardest not to let his worry seep out. God damn, just how perspective was Hinami? No one in Aogiri could tell whenever he was in turmoil—well except for the higher ups but they were just creepy—and yet, in less than a couple minutes with her, she could tell there was something on his mind.

“You’re worried about Touka-nee, aren’t you.” Hinami muttered, causing Ayato to turn away. Although that probably confirmed what Hinami was thinking. “She’ll be fine. I’m sure she’s somewhere safe.”

“I’m not worried about that….I know she can take care of herself when it comes to humans….I’m….she’s in charge of keeping that bitch safe.” Ayato growled out, not even fazed by another explosion that rocked the ship.  “This could set her off and I’m not sure Touka….I…..argh!” He screamed in frustration as they finally reached one of the emergency exits that would lead them directly to the top of the ship.  It took him a couple of seconds to reel in his anger before he settled his glare onto the metal door that separated them from the outside world. “Fucking Martian! You would think he would have learned the first fucking time not to fucking mess with us.” He growled angrily as his Kakugan blazed wildly.

“I would suggest not to go crazy and kill the Martian, but I have a feeling you won’t listen.” Hinami sighed as she moved to open the metal door. Immediately they were met the cool breeze and smell of the ocean, yet they couldn’t hear the waves crash amongst each other as the humming of the laser sword as it sliced through the Terran Kataphrakts overpowered it. “Ayato-kun?”

“Damn right I’m not going to listen.” Ayato snarled as he ran up the steps two at a time—with Hinami hot on his heels—before they finally landed on the deck. Already several of the ships cannon’s were out of commission. They had a large gashes running down the middle of each of the guns that nearly made them unrecognizable. “I’m gonna kill that motherfucker. And I’m going to enjoy it.” He growled just as they witnessed the Martian Kataphrakt slice through a Terran Kataphrakt.

“I’m going to see if I can protect the rest of the humans.” Hinami muttered dangerously as she activated her Kakugan and released both of her Kagunes, just as the Martian sliced through another Terran Kataphrakt. “And and try not to damage the rest of the ship. We don’t want to sink.”

“Heh.” Ayato smirked as the Martian finally turned towards them, “No promises.”

Time for payback. No one touches my sister and gets away with it.

“Oi! Did you miss me you fucking human!”

Inaho’s POV

Running into the hanger, the young dark brunette had already noticed that several of the Areion models were already missing and the ones left were slowly getting occupied by the remaining soldiers. As another explosion rocked the ship, Inaho turned his attention towards the remaining Kataphrakts. Two bright Orange ones. However, only one peaked his interest as he realized someone—he was willing to bet that it was Calm who managed to get the engineers to agree—had placed extra equipment on the arms.

This will certainly aid me in battle. Inaho thought as he grabbed the safety gear laying on a nearby table and immediately climbed onto the hanger that would bring him up to the pilot seat. He nearly fell off as another explosion rocked the ship once more followed by a loud battle cry that Inaho knew belong to the male indigo haired teen. Who knows how much damage the Martian has already done….I can’t expect that Hinami and her family will take care of everything. It’s best to get going before Yuki-nee—

“NAO-KUN! What are you doing?!” He heard his sister cry out just as he began powering up the Sleipnir. Turning on the monitor, he saw his older sister—with her exo skeleton brace, briefly reminding him just how close he was to losing his last family member—staring at the Kataphrakt in shock and fear.

“You’re injured.” He simply answered as he finished zipping up the safety harness around his neck. “You’re in no condition to fight.”

“And you aren’t even a soldier!” His sister argued, stomping her foot. “I should be the one going out there not you!”

“I won’t be alone.” Inaho answers as he puts his speakers around mid volume making his sister wince slightly at the volume. “I’ll have Hinami and Ayato-san with me.”

“You don’t know that!” She cried out once more as Inaho began to move his Sleipnir into position where he’ll be lifted to the deck. “Ayato’s still in the infirmary and Hinami wouldn’t dive into danger like that!”

“If they were normal humans, you would be correct.” Inaho answers as he moves the Sleipnir’s arm to equip the machine gun all Kataphrakts were required to carry. “But they are not. And not to mention, Hinami made a promise to us to always protect us. I doubt she would back out now.” Inaho couldn’t help but let out a smile as Yuki sighed one of her ‘Inaho has a point’ sigh. He was glad that he wasn’t the only one to see Hinami as the same girl he knew for four years. She was just….slightly different but her willingness to protect those close to her only proved she was just as human as the rest of them.  As the lift began raise him up, Inaho took a deep breath before clearing his mind of all meaningless information and emotions—they would do him no good if he could not act without getting angry or frustrated—and concentrated on formulating a plan.

It is most likely the same Kataphrakt from before if the humming and explosions are a sign to go by. Inaho thought as he remembered the massacre just a couple days ago. A battle he nearly escaped from only due to the combined efforts of his friends and Ayato. If that’s so then we have the advantage. I doubt that the Martian Kataphrakt can take on two people, let alone three with just one sword. With Ayato or Hinami blocking his attacks with their Kagune, I’ll be easy to create an opening where we can either incapacitate him, or kill him. We might get more information if we capture him alive though. However, fighting an enemy without the intent to kill won’t do well for me especially since all he wants to do is murder all Terrans.

“YOU GOD DAMN MOTHER FUCKER, STAY IN ONE FUCKING PLACE!” Inaho heard Ayato shout just as he monitors began to show the battle field. Much like on the cargo pier, Areion parts were scatted among the deck, yet, there were several surviving Areion models with missing arms, trying to fire at the Martian Kataphrakt while Hinami protected them the best she could. It was still frightening to see her with the eyes of a predator when she was nothing but kind, however, Inaho was glad that she was willing to go to her darker side so to speak to help them out.

Oh, that’s new. Inaho thought, his eyebrows narrowing slightly in frustration as he took notice of the upgrades the Martian had gone through. Two swords instead of one. This might be a bit more problematic than before. Although I’m sure we can compromise—

“AH my nemesis!” The Martian called out as he had finally noticed his presence. He took another swing at Ayato that sent him flying straight towards Hinami. The two of them collided against one of the walls, making a rather large dent in it. Inaho took in a deep breath as he saw Hinami struggling to stand; easily remembering how injured she was when she had first crashed into the truck.  He then narrowed his eyes in determination, steeling himself for a deadly fight should he make a fatal mistake. “So you finally come to play then!”

“Ayato, Hinami. I’m going to require your help against him.” Inaho called out over his radio as he raised his gun to point at the Martian. “Are you well enough for it?”

“Tch. Like you fucking have to ask!” Ayato growled out as he stood shakily on his legs, releasing his Ukaku. His fiery wings soon turned into harden spears which he pointed towards the Martian. “This bastard is mine.”

“Please be careful.” Hinami called out, “We’re not exactly 100% just yet.”

“And we’ll provide back up.” One of the soldiers from the semi damaged Areion unit called out, surprising both teen ghouls. “We may not be able to do damage like you guys, but we are not going to fucking let you take on this monster alone!”

“If girlie here can make sure we don’t take any more damage that is. She’s really something.” Another chuckled out weakly as they lifted the remaining Areion arm to point its gun at the Martian.

That is surprising. Inaho thought, smiling at Hinami’s blush and glossy eyes. I never thought the soldiers would quickly take a liking to Hinami—

“NAO-KUN!” Hinami cried, snapping the teen back to the Martian, silently scolding himself for even taking his attention off the Martian. Immediately he began firing at the Martian who ran at him at full speed, dodging all of his shots. The other soldiers tried their best to stop him as well, but using one arm didn’t provide that great of an aim so the Martian didn’t even try to dodge them.

“There is no armor that these swords cannot pierce!” The Martian shouted out, getting much closer than what Inaho would have liked.

“Well, they sure as hell can’t pierce Kagune you fucker!” Ayato smirked as he suddenly jumped right in from of Inaho’s view, just as the Martian was about to swing down one of his sword.

“You forget that he has two swords,” Inaho muttered as he dropped his gun, giving one arm for Ayato to stand on as he used his Ukaku to block one of the Martians’ swords. Immediately, he raised his other arm—armed with reactive armor –just as the Martian shouted out in frustration and swung his other sword down. The reactive armor did its job as they exploded, dispersing the plasma effect and allowing Inaho to grab onto his arm, preventing him to retract and try to attack once more.

“You might want to disarm him Ayato.” Inaho muttered, his knuckles turning white as he gripped the controls as tightly as he could, doing his best to make sure the Martian wouldn’t retract his arm.  “He can pull back—”

SHING

Inaho would never admit it aloud, but he was always grateful that he was never on the other of that Kagune as it cleanly sliced through the wrist of the Martian Kataphrakt before Ayato pierced its forearm to lock it in place since his own hand would barely be able to grab onto it. Sometimes it didn’t make sense as to why an organic material—it had to be organic, after all it came out of their body…LITERALLY—could slice through metal with ease and how their own body could deflect nearly any normal size weapon without being injured.

If eating human flesh could do that to a person, there would have been sighting of ghouls in our own world much earlier than four years. Inaho thought to himself, There must be something else that causes the abnormality in their body. But for now, I should focus on the Martian in front of me. Inaho narrowed his eyes slightly as he switched his com link to connect to the bridge where the captain would most likely be.

“Control! Please tilt the ship.” Inaho asked as he eyed Ayato’s struggling figure on his arm, “Do it now! I’m not sure how much longer Ayato-san can hold on.”

“Bitch! I can do this all day.” Ayato panted, giving a painful smirk as the Martian’s arm began to slowly pull back.

Obviously you can’t. But I have a feeling you would hold it against me if I said it aloud Inaho chuckled softly to himself, as he felt the ship beginning to tip behind him. Even though you aren’t 100% human, you still need rest just like the rest of us.

“DAMN IT LET GO!” The Martian shouted out in anger as his right Plasma blade heated up considerably and began causing a minor malfunction near his leg.

I suppose now be the best time to put my plan into motion. Inaho grunted as he flipped a switch that turned on his thrusters….backwards.

“Oi! Oi! Oi! Are you trying to get us killed!” Ayato shouted in surprise as he looked back at Inaho—or where he should be if those eyes didn’t give him x-ray vision.

No that’s ridiculous. Hinami would have mentioned it at one point.

“Just jump before we hit the water.” Inaho explained, already pushing the control to let go of his backpack that would allow his cockpit to eject safely. “That should be enough—”

CRUNCH

Inaho suddenly felt his Sleipnir tilting backwards suddenly much faster than he had calculated and a quick look at his monitors showed that he was nowhere near the edge of the ship at all. So why—

Ah…the leg gave out much sooner than I thought. Inaho frowned at the red malfunction sign flashing right before his eyes. I’ll be in a much vulnerable position and I don’t think that Ayato will be in any condition to fight even more—

“HINAMI! GET YOUR ASS OVER HERE!” Ayato screamed just as the tilting stopped, surprising Inaho at the new development. As he turned his camera to his leg, he was surprise to see his friend wrapping her pale scale like Rinkaku around his damaged Sleipnir leg, straightening it up.

“It’s not much, it should hold long enough until we reach the edge!” Hinami called out over the boosters that came back to life. “AYATO!”

“I know! Just make sure you let go before it’s too late!” The Indigo teen shouted back just as he sliced the Martian’s Kataphrakt once more before jumping straight at him, Ukaku pointing at the cockpit.

So they either want to make sure he stays dead or….they actually plan on taking him captive. Inaho thought just as the edge of the ship came into view. He pulled the string around his inflatable collar, that immediately covered his head and without wasting a second, he pulled on the emergency eject handle and shot out of his Sleipnir just as the two machines made it airborne.

I wonder if Ayato managed to complete his objective before they hit the water. Inaho thought just as his own cockpit jolted suddenly as he heard the explosion.

“Sorry for the extra weight!” A voice muffled out above him, earning a smile on Inaho’s face. “I just didn’t know where else I could land.”

“It’s quite alright.” Inaho answered, relaxing considerably. “As long as both you and Ayato came out unharmed.”

“I have a question Nao-kun.” Hinami quickly asked after a couple of seconds of silence. “Why did that cause such an explosion? I mean…I don’t think that their Kataphrakts would malfunction so bad because water entered their system.”

“The intense heat from the plasma sword was enough to make the water turn into steam instantly.” Inaho answered just as he felt his cockpit landing in the water. He continued to talk as he took off his safety straps and opened the hatch of the cockpit where Hinami—without her red and black eyes—gave him a confused stare. “The pressure of the steam immediately expanded and well, you saw the result.”

“I never knew steam could be so….deadly.” Hinami shivered as she eyed the floating and sinking pieces of the Martian Kataphrakt. “I’m glad you were never part of the CCG….” She muttered to herself, earning a small frown from himself. “You would have been a deadly investigator to fight against.”

“I don’t think I would have the motivation to push myself where I can physically keep up with you.” Inaho answered as he took off his inflatable helmet that had taken the brunt of hit when he had first ejected. “You saw my scores in physical education. I don’t think I would have been out in the field fighting ghouls if I had an intense regime to keep up with.” That earned a small chuckle from the brunette.

“I suppose that’s true.” She smiled softly as she pushed some stay hairs behind her ear. “You always did the minimal requirement when it came to that class.” Just then, Hinami snapped her head up in surprise before it turned into a soft and…..pleased smile?

That’s the smile Hinami would give Okisuke whenever he gave her something or thanked her for helping him. Inaho thought as he followed her view and was pleasantly surprise that someone was already on their in a black speed boat to pick them up.  However, he had never thought it would be her picking them up.

“Idiot.” Rayet grumbled as she extended her hand out for the two of them to take. “You worried your white haired brother for fighting.”

“I was fine.” Hinami chuckled nervously as she rubbed the back of her neck, a small blush apparent on her checks. “I had Nao-kun and Ayato with me. And now I know you have my back as well so that makes me three times safer!”

“Whatever, just get in the boat before your brother gets one and tries to save you instead.” Rayet sighed, looking away as Hinami giggled and took her hand.

This is certainly an interesting development. Inaho smiled softly as the two girls semi-argued with each other. I wonder….if Okisuke finally sees Hinami who she really is, will Hinami be taken by then?

“Nao-kun!” Hinami smiled brightly at him as she gave him her hand. “Let’s go back.”

“Yes.” He couldn’t help but smile at the genuine smile Hinami gave as Rayet scoffed. “Let’s go back.”

Hide’s POV

“I didn’t think you were capable of actually sparing someone’s life.” Hide commented as Ayato unceremoniously dumped a beaten and unconscious Orbital Knight at his feet. “Especially when they kicked your ass.”

“Shut up you fucker.” Ayato hissed as he turned his attention out to sea where Hinami and Inaho were most likely at. “And why the fuck are you here? I thought that bastard would have wanted you inside.” He sneered as Hide rolled his eyes at him. Oh kids these days. One of these days, Hide will eventually find something to tease Ayato about—whether it be a boyfriend, girlfriend, or whatever—and he will never let up, not even for sex….well maybe for sex. But god, sex with Ken was—

I really need better control over my hormones. Hide sighed heavily as the black speed boat finally started speeding towards them. After all, the kids and Touka can probably smell when I’m horny and I don’t need another reason to plot the death of Ayato for his annoyingness.

“We haven’t heard from Touka so Ken when to go and check up on her.” Hide answered, biting the tip of his nail in worry and he didn’t need super hearing to hear Ayato intake of breath. Of course he would be worried for his sister, it was only natural. “Although, considering that the rest of the ship isn’t damaged and there are no reports of a fox like monster trying to kill and eat people, that’s a good sign that Touka did her job.”

“Or something else happened entirely.” Touka growled out, slamming open the metal door surprising Hide. A side glance at the younger ghoul sibling showed him smirking at his reaction and Hide was seriously beginning to consider a way to accidently trip Ayato overboard.

But that’s for another time. Hide thought as he focused his attention back to the ex waitress as she frowned at him. What happened?

“Did the bitch pass out or what?” Ayato sneered as he quickly—but not quick enough for Hide—inspected his sister for any damage.

“That bitch would be my best friend little Aya-kun. I won’t tolerate any more insults to her you know.” A familiar but yet…..wrong, voice giggled out causing all three of their heads to turn. Hide couldn’t help but take a sharp intake of air as he saw who was standing just a couple of feet away from them. She looked exactly like a certain half ghoul Hide knew for over twenty years; however, there were subtle changes about her that if you didn’t know her as well as he did then you couldn’t tell. While her white hair still flowed freely, her two long strands that Miko usually pulled back since they weren’t long enough to blend in with the rest of her hair now shaped her face and laid on her shoulders. Her bangs that she never parted, now swept to the left, giving a lot more exposure to her only Kakugan which thankfully wasn’t showing. If it wasn’t a trick of the light, Hide could swear that Miko’s once silver eyes had a tint of blue to them as well.

All of these small subtle differences were once recommendations to the half ghoul by a dead ghoul. And while Miko loved her dead friend, she loved her own hairstyle and refused to change it for any reason. So the fact that she was now sporting the hairstyle meant only one thing.

Oh shit….Trisha.

Several minutes ago Yagarai’s POV

Oh crap…. Yagarai thought as the tentacles quickly threw Touka away from them as she tried to intervene—and she made a dent in the wall, A DENT—before the tentacles focused on him. Miko’s head was still hidden from his view so she most likely didn’t know just what was going on, if anything it was just her instinct trying to protect her.

“Crap.” Yagarai muttered as the tentacles suddenly shot straight towards him, most likely to end his life.

I’m sorry I let you down Miko. I’m so sorry.

“DOCTOR!”

As he closed his eyes, he prepared for the worst pain imaginable but after a couple of seconds of nothing, the doctor slowly cracked open one eye. He nearly cried in shock as he saw the red tentacle literally centimeters from his glasses—never had he been so thankful for them—before they slowly retreated. Just as he was about to sigh a breath of relief a chuckle coming from Miko silenced him immediately.

Miko would never chuckle after a dire situation like this. And not to mention…..something feels off about that chuckle.

“Well, that was a close one huh doctor?” Miko chuckled lightly as she pulled away from the doctor giving the doctor a good look at his friend and he couldn’t help but take a sharp intake of breath as Miko began undoing the strands of hair that she tied back on a daily basis. Normally people wouldn’t see that as anything too drastic; however, when one’s eye suddenly gets a tint of color to them….

“Miko!” Touka cried out, snapping the doctor out of his thoughts. “What the hell?!”

“Oh Touka! I’m glad to see my god daughter alive and well.” Miko continued, not even fazed by the confused look Touka was giving her as she began to part her bangs so that they would fall to the left. “Sheesh how the hell does Miko-chan see with all the hair blocking her view? This is why I tell her to at least push them to the side if she refuses to cut them.”

She’s referring to herself in third person? Yagarai thought as Miko continue to fuss about her appearance while Touka began to grow paler by the second. What’s going on?!

“T-Trisha-nee-san?” Touka muttered out, her eyes wide open and frightened. Yagarai wanted to ask her what she meant by that when Miko giggled—it was too high pitch, Miko would never giggle that high—and nodded.

“Ding ding ding! We have a winner! I always knew you were brighter than you let on.” Miko laughed as she finally removed herself from Yagarai’s lap. “And while I do love the comfort of your legs doctor, I think I rather stretch the ones I’m borrowing. It’s been so long since I actually got to move them.” She winked as she began to stretch, looking a lot more livelier than several minutes ago. Seeing that Touka was too shocked to even ask any more questions—if her pale complexion was anything to go by—the doctor took it upon himself to ask the question he was itching to know.

“What’s going on? Who are you and where’s Miko?” He demanded as he stood up and blocked her patch as she was just about to leave the infirmary.

“Well, since you are trying to help dear Miko-chan, I suppose it’s only right that I give you some answers to your questions since you won’t be needed anymore.” She sighed as she played with a strand of hair. “As to what’s going on I don’t really know, but I do have a theory that I wish to share with a certain blonde to see if I’m correct. Miko is still here, so you don’t have to worry about her Doctor. I’m making sure she’s relaxing nicely.” She smiled brightly before narrowing her eyes at him and gave him a deadly smirk. “And as to who am I? I’m Trisha and I don’t plan on leaving anytime soon.”

Oh this isn’t a good sign, not at all. The doctor gulped just as Touka finally snapped out of shocked state and snarled angrily at Miko. Not good at all.

Hide’s POV

“Trisha….” Hide muttered, his eyes narrowing at the half ghoul who merely smiled brightly at him. It sent shivers down his spine to see her smiling so carefree when she was just recovering one of her episodes. And the predatory look she gave the Martian on the floor did not sit well with him especially when the last time “Miko” gave that look to someone else, she slaughtered him into unrecognizable pieces. “I’m not sure if the circumstances make this a pleasant visit or not.” Hide chose his words carefully since he did not to upset “Trisha”. She was….possessive of Miko and that was putting it mildly. And if she thought you were a threat to her dear Miko-chan…..well it could end horribly. Sometimes, Hide wondered how he had missed the signs for so many years.

But to be fair to Trisha, it was never this bad. She had only started to get more possessive and deadly when Ken became a ghoul and she got orders from Aogiri to take in Miko. Of course Trisha never showed this side to Miko—she knew that being that possessive would scare her away—so that’s probably why Miko didn’t know about this version of Trisha. The one he knew all too well when Miko was stressing out about Ken’s disappearance and Trisha had demanded that he help Miko relax or he would be the next one missing. It was certainly frightening to see the once cheerful blonde turn into a crazy women in a matter of months.

I wonder how she held herself back whenever Miko talked about her crushes to Trisha. It seemed that Trisha loved Miko to death. But then again, she wasn’t as bad near her death so that could mean she wasn’t that bothered by the crushes? Well, that’s something I can ask for another day. Right now, let’s focus on getting back the Miko we know.

“I suppose I can agree with you on that.” ‘Trisha’ smiled tightly at Hide before she cleared her face of any emotions. “But there were things that were out of….my control. So I’ll be here for a while to make sure….that there isn’t any danger to my dear Miko-chan."

“More like you’re not going to leave.” Touka growled out, “Don’t think that I forgot what you said in the infirmary!”

“What the fuck! What did you do to my sister you bitch!” Ayato sneered as he tried to grab a hold of ‘Trisha’ but faster than Hide could blink, Ayato was on the floor with his arms pulled back and standing above him was ‘Trisha’ with a dark and predatory look on her face.

“Nothing. I promised both your father and mother I would look out after the two of you. After all, I am your godmother. But that does not mean I will punish you accordingly if you try to harm Miko-chan. Are we clear!” She sneered as she pulled on Ayato’s arm even further.

“Miko-nee! Don’t let her control you!” Ken’s voice suddenly boomed out, freezing ‘Trisha’ in her place. For a moment it seemed that she was struggling with herself as she slowly let go of the teenage ghoul to clutch her head in pain. “Leave, Trisha! This is not your body; stop haunting my sister! She needs to heal and you taking over her will not help her with that!” Ken growled out, his Kakugan appearing in his left eye, making him look even deadlier than before.

“You don’t even know what kind of pain she’s going through.” ‘Trisha’ growled back as she stumbled onto the deck. “You don’t know the horror she’s been through! How many times she cried for help and no one came! How she first worried about your wellbeing to wondering how many more days she would have to endure before she died! I was the one who comforted her! I was the one who made her stay strong when everything was bleak! Where were you?! Where were you when you decided to pull your disappearing act! Did you think you were saving your sister!? Did you!” She screamed before she lowered her voice.

“I’m the only one she needs to depend on. I can help her heal without anyone of you interfering, especially that bitch who thinks she can be Miko-chan’s friend. She’ll leave her just like the rest of those pathetic humans did. Humans can’t be trusted.” She growled out. And before Hide even knew what he was doing, he suddenly found himself standing in front of her and without wasting a second, he slapped her across the cheek.

If he wasn’t mistaken, he swore he hear Ayato cuss in shock because, hey who would slap the crazy demented, possessive half ghoul who could easily tear you too shreds? The blonde guy who dating a half ghoul and helped ghouls escape from CCG investigators; that’s who. God, Ken was right, he was a magnet for danger.

No use thinking how I’ll probably die if Trisha decides to become hostile, Hide sighed to himself. Let’s get this over with and pray that I don’t die.

“So you’re telling me, that all humans are incapable of keeping promises?” Hide growled out, surprising everyone on the deck even himself. He didn’t think his voice could even get that dangerously low. Huh something new to try in the—nope! Focus! Shaking his head, Hide continued. “Then what the hell made you befriend all of us years ago? What compelled you to come over and introduce yourself if Humans are only capable of lies?”

“I—”

“Obviously, you thought differently! You knew that there were humans who you could trust! Who were worthy! Who would look deeper than the surface and see a person instead of a deadly ghoul!” Hide screamed as he grabbed Miko’s shirt and pulled her close to his face. “So why can’t you believe that the humans here are capable of keeping their promise?! Do you want Miko to wake up and see the damage you caused because you couldn’t keep yourself in check! Do you want her think that it was her fault?!”

“I would never let her think that!” ‘Trisha’ snarled back, “I would take—”

“The blame?! She would even feel worse because she would think that she had no control of her conscious unless you want to tell her about your possession?!”

“Don’t you even dare!” ‘Trisha’ roared before flinching back in pain, “Damn, it! Not now! Miko-chan! Not now!”

“See! Even she realizes that something’s wrong!” Hide cried back, tightening his hold. “She knows that this isn’t you! We know that this isn’t you! Please! Just, go back.” Hide panted as Miko—well Trisha—finally begun losing the battle to control Miko’s body.

“This….isn’t the end.” Miko—Trisha—muttered, glaring weakly at Hide. “I will do whatever to protect Miko-chan.”

“Even if it destroys her?” Hide asked softly causing Trisha’s eyes to widen slightly. “Because, that’s her greatest fear. To hurt the people she cares for or at least the innocent. If you go through with what you think is best for Miko-chan….I think you might do more damage to her.” He never got an answer as Trisha finally closed her eyes, and slumped forward signaling that Miko finally gained control over her body. Letting out a breath of relief, he let Ken take Miko’s body off his hands and carried her bridal style.

“Thank you Hide.” Ken sighed as Miko began to stir, “Thank you for saying those words.”

“Hey, someone had to do it.” Hide chuckled, “Even when it’s to a scary as shit person who can kill you in seconds.” He nervously laughed before he turned his attention to the unconscious Martian that laid just a couple feet away from them. “So…..how are we going to explain to the Captain that we brought a Martian aboard mostly for your food bank?”

“Let’s just focus on one problem at a time.” Ken sighed as Miko wearily opened her eyes. “We had enough shit happening today.”

“Tch, for once, I’m going to agree with you.” Ayato snorted before giving the Martian a kick to the gut as he moaned. “Stupid Martian.”