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1. The Surprise Call

There were few hints and suspicions long before this event, but it all intensified when they’re conducting the acceptance party for the new recruits, new officers that joined the third division.

The hall bustled with energy as the new recruits of the Third Division stood and mingled with their superiors. Laughter and chatter filled the room as veterans interacted with the fresh faces, celebrating the official acceptance of the new officers into their division. Mina, ever the picture of stoicism, sat at a table with Okonogi and a few other senior members.

She nursed a glass of orange juice, her eyes scanning the room, a hint of amusement playing on her eyes. Delighted by the fact that these new batch of officers, this might be the best batch they’ve ever had, with more than one recruit hitting double digits unleashed combat power.

This batch truly have promising recruits.

Suddenly, the captain’s phone vibrated on the table. A momentary flicker of surprise crossed her features before she quickly picked up the device. Okonogi, ever the observant, sees that even if a frown is present in her captain’s face, a blush has creeped up her ears as she pressed the phone to her ear and excused herself.

“What now…” Okonogi still managed to hear as Captain Ashiro stood up. Her captain’s voice softer than she’d ever heard it, missing the bite and authority it usually had.

A small smile, genuine and unguarded, spread across the captain’s face. Okonogi couldn’t hear the other side of the conversation, but through the wide opened door, she saw how the captain’s responses unfold. She listened intently, nodding occasionally, and even lets out light chuckles!

Okonogi couldn’t help but raise an eyebrow in surprise. This wasn’t the same stoic Captain Ashiro she, the third division knew. This Captain Ashiro was relaxed, expressive, visibly happy, and completely captivated by the conversation she’s having.

The conversation continued for a few minutes, each word seemingly painting a brighter shade on the captain’s smile, Okonogi can’t find it in her to look away. Her captain looked like she’s glowing, with all the small yet blinding smiles she flashed. Finally, Captain Ashiro ended the call before slipping the phone back into the pocket of her jacket.

As she rejoined the table, the barely there smile remained, a lingering warmth in her eyes. Okonogi leaned closer, unable to contain her curiosity. “Who was that, Captain?” she asked, voice barely a murmur.

The captain turned to her, a mischievous glint sparkling in her eyes. “Just… someone.” she replied, the single word dripping with secrecy. She took a hold of her orange juice and sipped, clearly trying to hide the tugging smile in her lips.

Okonogi chuckled, a knowing look spreading across her face. “Looks like someone finally cracked your tough exterior, Captain!” she teased. “Though judging by the look on your face, I wouldn’t say you’re complaining.”

The captain’s cheeks flushed a deeper shade of pink, she didn’t say anything, but a genuine smile hidden by the glass graced her lips. The celebration continued, but for Okonogi, the evening had taken on a new meaning. The Third Division might have gained a few new officers, but it seemed they had also gained a new romance blossoming within their ranks.

2. Video Game Advice

The other incident, subtle confirmation about the love life of the stoic captain happened when she called Furuhashi and Ichikawa into her office.

The young recruits exchanged a nervous glance as they stood outside Captain Ashiro’s office. An urgent summons from the Captain usually meant debriefings after a rough mission, reprimands for minor rule infractions, or – worst of all – a surprise fitness test. Neither of them could recall any recent slip-ups and mistakes, so their apprehension simmered as they knocked on the wooden door.

“Enter.” came the captain’s voice, laced of its usual stern edge.

They shuffled in, eyes darting around the Captain’s office. She sat behind her desk, an uncharacteristic furrow etched on her brow. “Be at ease, Furuhashi, Ichikawa.” she said, gesturing to the chairs across from her.

They cautiously sat down, backs trained straight, waiting for the inevitable doom to drop.

“This isn’t about a mission or a debriefing.” she started, probably sensing their fears it just surprised them further. “I… need your help.”

Their nervousness spiked. Captain Ashiro asking for help? What alternate reality had they stumbled into?

“It’s… well.” She coughed and shifted on her seat, hesitating uncharacteristically. “It’s about video games.”

Furuhashi and Ichikawa exchanged another bewildered look.

Video games? This was even more bizarre, unusual than a surprise inspection.

A beat of silence hung in the air before the captain sighed.

“Look, I know this might seem strange…” she admitted, a hint of vulnerability and shame in her voice. “But you two are young, you know about these things, right?”

They both stammered a hesitant “Yes, Captain.” still unsure where this conversation was headed.

“So…” She continued, leaning forward, “I was wondering… what are some good games for someone who’s, well, new to the whole online gaming scene?”

The question hung in the air like a dropped grenade.

Ashiro Mina, the stoic Captain who could stare down a Kaiju without blinking, who’s only interested in slaying kaiju and saving the world from its terrors was asking about video games for beginners?

It felt like the world had tilted on its axis.

“For you, Captain?” Furuhashi finally managed, his voice barely above a whisper, testing the waters.

“Yes, for me…” she replied looking away, a faint blush creeping up her cheeks. “Think of it as… expanding my horizons, so to speak.”

Ichikawa, ever the quick thinker, finally understood. “Oh! Right, of course, Captain!” he said, forcing a serious tone. He cleared his throat. “But, uhhh, it depends on what kind of games you’re interested in. Action, adventure, strategy…?”

Mina tapped on her chin thoughtfully. “Something that’s… not too complicated, but still fun. Something where I could learn the ropes, probably?”

Furuhashi, his initial shock fading as they eased up in this ‘unusual’ conversation with the captain, jumped in with suggestions. “Maybe try Mario Kart or Super Smash Bros Captain? They’re easy to pick up, but still have modes that can be pretty challenging, also you can play it on solo or have someone play it with you!”

The captain scribbled the name down on a notepad. “Mario Kart…. Sounds interesting.”

Over the next few minutes, Furuhashi and Ichikawa, still reeling from the surreal situation, rattled off a list of beginner-friendly online games. They also suggested some equipment she can use for gaming. She listened to them intently, taking notes and asking clarifying questions.

When they were finally dismissed, she warned them not to tell a single soul about their conversation. Furuhashi and Reno were sworn to secrecy and they knew hell awaits if someone else found out.

They stumbled out of the Captain’s office, blinking in the sunlight.

“Did that really just happen?” Furuhashi breathed, his voice a mix of disbelief and amusement.

“The Captain… playing video games?” Ichikawa echoed, a surprised look his face.

Then, it hit them both. “She must have found a gaming partner.” Ichikawa concluded. “Someone to show her the ropes.”

When they’re away from her office, they both burst out laughing, the image of the stoic captain fumbling through a controller coming up in their imagination.

Captain Ashiro Mina, the gamer? Who would have thought.

It seemed the once-unapproachable captain had a secret life, and it involved online gaming and more importantly, maybe, just maybe she found a special someone whom she can share it with.

3. Overbought Sweets and Canned Lattes

It is known to everyone in the third division that their captain has a sweet tooth. During breaks, they’ll see her munching on some type of sweets, be it candy, chocolate bars, shortcakes, brownies, donuts or canned lattes.

What’s surprising is when they saw her carrying two boxes of canned lattes and two boxes of mixed flavored donuts and cakes into the training room again. That’s a lot, even for someone who really likes them. It’s been happening so much lately, the boys are sometimes playing bet on when exactly will the captain come to give them free snacks.

Everyone in the training room stopped what they’re doing to pay respects and gather around the captain.

Kikoru gaped at her, “Excuse me if I’m being rude captain but, isn’t that…. A bit too much?”

Now she really wondered how is captain Ashiro is able to keep her figure slim and perfectly fit. When she saw her at the baths before, there were no excess fat in her arms and legs. Kikoru wants to know what is her secret, how can she keep it this way despite eating and drinking so many sweets.

“Well it is too much.” She placed the boxes of canned lattes on the floor and the two boxes of pastries on the nearby table. “That’s why I brought some here, maybe you guys want it.”

“Well if you insist Mi- Captain! Thank you very much!” Kafka is the first one to dig up the boxes. Kikoru looked down on him with disgust.

“Yeah, no problem.”

“Did you accidentally bought so much captain?”

“No I-…” she coughed and acted to turn her back, leaving. “Yeah I did.” Kikoru just shrugged when she hurriedly left the facility, mumbling her thanks to the retreating figure of their captain.

She won’t pass up free snacks.

The next day, Kikoru got summoned in the captain’s office. For some reason she got nervous, did the captain got upset with what she said yesterday?

Knocking three times then pushing the door open, Kikoru found a stack of folders sprawled before the desk, but what caught Kikoru’s eye the most were the four cardboard boxes stacked precariously in the corner right beside a mini-fridge.

Each box bore the logo of popular canned latte brands – Captain Ashiro’s usual pick-me-ups during breaks. Seeing as her captain is nowhere to be found yet, she struts carefully towards the boxes.

The captain just gave them two boxes of these yesterday, did she overbought again?

Kikoru examined the shipping information attached to the boxes.

“To Captain Ashiro Mina of the third division…..” she squinted her eyes. “From… The Strongest?”

Kikoru had to hold back a laugh.

What is this, The Strongest? What sort of idiot would name themselves like that?!

She chuckled, finally unable to contain her laughter. The name of the sender is so silly, like it’s from a kid, and then while she's busy laughing, suddenly the door opened.

“Captain Ashiro?!” Kikoru didn’t notice her arrival, her voice laced with surprise.

The captain flinched, startled from how loud Kikoru’s voice is. She glanced at the boxes, then back at Kikoru, a flush creeping up her neck.

“Shinomiya…. What brings you here?” she walked towards her desk.

“Uhmm…. You summoned me here, Captain.” Kikoru replied, as she quickly strided towards the desk and stood up in front of her captain, silently glancing back at the stacked boxes of lattes at the corner.

The captain frowned but the pink color has managed to creep up her cheeks. “Those are… just some extra supplies I ordered.”

Kikoru raised an eyebrow skeptically. They know the captain rarely ordered supplies for herself, preferring to rely on cafeteria food and the vending machines. These are also differing in brands…

“Just like yesterday, Captain?” she pressed, gesturing towards the boxes.

“Y-yes…” The captain stammered. “Take a box with you later. Share it with the others.”

“Really? Thank you captain!” Kikoru beamed.

Captain Ashiro cleared her throat, trying to regain her composure. “Alright, alright. Now as of why I called you here.” She sighed, a hint of surrender in her voice as she shifted in her seat. “Clear your schedule during the weekends, we’ll have a special task for you.”

“If I may ask, what kind of task is it captain?” Kikoru tilted her head like a kid. What kind of special task is it? She’s already buzzing with thrill and excitement.

Captain Ashiro looked her in the eye, “We’ll tell you on Saturday, rest assured it’s nothing you can’t handle.” She smiled warmly at Kikoru.

She trusts her captain so she salutes and responds, “Yes ma’am.”

Kikoru was dismissed and she walk out of her office carrying a box of the over ordered supplies.

The captain looked so annoyed as she ripped the shipping information paper attached on top of the box and handed Kikoru the promised share.

She chuckled again, remembering the silly and childish nickname of the sender. Kikoru is really curious on who would name themselves like that, and who would send that many different brands of canned lattes to Captain Ashiro.

She decided to let the Captain keep her secret, for now anyway. She’s good at keeping secrets, still managing to help Kafka hide the fact that he can transform into Kaiju no. 8. Then again Kikoru knew she’d keep an eye out for any further developments – and maybe enjoy an “overbought” latte or two in the process.

4. Synergy in Battle

Another time the third and first division got paired up to eliminate a daikaiju once more. It’s becoming a common occurrence nowadays, with multiple daikaiju showing up at the same place and at the same time, divisions are tasked to work together in eliminating the threat.

The opponent this time is a giant grotesque creature that spats out acid, immediately bringing the affected area into ruins and driving away forces that tries to pin it in place. The other daikaiju is also a giant, a bat-like creature that can shoot beam out it’s mouth while it’s in the air. The even more severe problem the defense force faces is the honju that the two daikaiju brought.

There are more or less 20 giant ant-like monsters deliberately targeting the most important spots in the city like train stations and telecommunication systems. It’s a relief that the military was quick enough to assist the civilians in evacuation.

Hoshina had to scowl, they’re starting to turn the tide against the honju but some of them, specially the new officers, the rookies who always strive to give their best in giving assistance to their senior officers are also starting to get weary. Taking down a honju without the power of their captain is proving to be quite the challenge.

It will be a challenge without them, but he still believes in the ability of their combined forces so it will all work out in the end, they just have to continue pressing forward.

After receiving the reports from other platoons, he tapped on his communication device, “Captain, we’ve secured Areas D to G.”

“Good, I’ll deal with the flying daikaiju. You guys continue to survey the area as you move onto the next target point.”

“Roger.”

He can see the chopper she’s in looming on top of the ruined town. The plan is to let her handle the troublesome flying kaiju and shoot it down from afar.

“Ashiro hurry it up!” The voice of the first division commander rang upon their ears.

A sigh can be heard. “Calm down, I’ll assist you once I’m done.”

The captains were tasked on taking down the daikaiju while the others focused on eliminating the honju. It’s up to the remaining forces to subdue the other threats while captain Ashiro and Narumi take down the bigger targets. It’s the perfect battle plan.

“Who says I need your help?”

“You clearly do…. You’re telling me to hurry up.”

Hoshina slashed his target and watched as his captain tried to shoot the kaiju down. It seems to have intelligence and knows how to evade the shots of her cannon quickly and get ready for a counterattack. It is seen loading and preparing to shoot the chopper she’s in with beam from its mouth.

The communication device crackled again, “Change of plans… I’ll bring this one to you.” Bakko is seen jumping off the chopper with Mina and her cannon on his back. “I’ll shoot them at the same time, line them up for me, Narumi?”

“Don’t tell me what to do!”

“I won’t repeat myself…” Captain Ashiro threatened (?) with the softest voice Hoshina has ever heard her.

He also raised a brow, their captain is more talkative during this mission, it’s beyond normal today.

Captain Narumi didn’t say anything and just growled, most likely annoyed that Captain Ashiro is the one giving him orders.

Hoshina found himself pouting, that’s his job you know! Clearing a path for his captain…

A few moments later after the whole area is cleared of the remaining honju, the scene crackled with loud explosions as Captain Ashiro and Captain Narumi launched their combined assault on the two daikaiju. It was a dance with perfect synergy.

The first division captain, a whirlwind of steel and fury, remained at the heart of the battle, swinging his large personal weapon effortlessly and drawing the Kaijuu’s attention with his relentless aggression.

“Stop wasting your ammo?!” Narumi barked, his voice sharp over the roar of the battle.

He didn’t look back at Captain Ashiro, his focus solely on keeping the daikaiju in place and severing their limbs.

“You’re gonna get hit.” Her voice echoed in their terminals. With the use of her standard assault rifle, she aims and shoots down the projectiles raining down from the daikaiju’s fleshy underbelly, that in turn might hit the first division captain. Each shot from her sniper rifle was a laser-focused defense, a shield deflecting potential disaster.

“I can handle them!” Narumi roared back, his voice strained from exertion. Clearly trying his hardest to avoid the relentless attacks from both of the daikaiju, the acid and laser beams coming from them.

“No, you can’t.” Mina countered, her voice laced with an authority that brooked no argument.

Another frustrated growl escaped Narumi, but he didn’t waste time arguing. This was their rhythm, their battle song. Captain Ashiro provided cover, a watchful eye eliminating threats before they could reach him. Captain Narumi, a fearless leader, leading the charge, drawing in the kaiju’s focus.

As a bystander, Hoshina thought that these people really are strong. They are capable of producing powerful attacks that normal people and officers can’t. It’s hard for him to admit it but, watching them work together gives Hoshina goosebumps.

A clear display of power their captains hold…..

The clash of metal against flesh and armor resonated through the city. The two daikaiju, momentarily distracted by Narumi’s brazen assaults, didn’t notice the subtle shift in Captain Ashiro’s form. Her stance firm, feet planted on the concrete, Bakko ready at her back to support her with the recoil, cannon loaded and in position, a predatory gleam flickering within its tip.

“Ashiro!” Narumi yelled, his voice clearly audible over the device.

“Thank you…” she breathed, the word barely heard and almost got lost in the chaos. She clearly received the signal, and in turn responded with a silent promise of swift and decisive action.

Two sharp cracks echoed through the battlefield. Each shot from Mina’s cannon found its mark, piercing the Kaijuu’s backs and exposing their glowing cores. Their monstrous roars of pain were music to all of the officers’ ears.

“Again!” Narumi bellowed, his voice ragged with urgency. Everyone knew that both the daikaiju had regenerative abilities, and they were running out of time.

The captain needed no more encouragement. In a blur of practiced motion, she reloaded and fired twice more, the deafening blasts echoing off the city’s remaining steel and glass. The exposed cores fractured and imploded in a brilliant flash of light, the daikaijuu collapsing with deafening thuds.

The daikaiju’s vitals going off were announced through the communicators and cheers erupted from the exhausted troops below. Relief washed over Hoshina as the adrenaline receded.

He sees his captain get down from the crumbling building with the rifle slinging on her back while riding on Bakko and holding her massive weapon, she landed right in front of captain Narumi.

The captains exchanged a brief glance – a silent conversation filled with shared exhaustion and the unspoken satisfaction of a job well done. Their postures were relaxed, the tension of battle already gone. They coincidentally (?) took their communication device at the same time.

Hoshina can see at his position that the two are having a conversation, maybe they’re arguing, but he can still see the playful banter evident from their faces which held warmth and camaraderie that spoke something about their current bond.

The vice captain thought that his captain really can work with anyone, and her skills further shines when she’s paired up with someone as strong as she is. He considers himself lucky for having the front seat in witnessing their might.

5. Borrowed (?!) Garments

A crisp winter wind whipped across the training grounds, sending a shiver down Kafka's spine. He watched from the sidelines as Mina sparred with Kikoru, their movements a blur of precision and power. However, something about Mina’s form seemed… different.

At least that’s what it looked in his eyes.

“Hey, Ichikawa…” Kafka nudged Ichikawa, who stood beside him watching the ongoing sparring, “Do you think Mina have shrunk a bit?”

Ichikawa, raised an eyebrow. “What do you mean?”

“Her jacket…” Kafka pointed discreetly and whispered. “It looks bigger than usual. The shoulders are kinda hanging loose, and the sleeves almost covered her hands completely.”

Ichikawa squinted at the captain’s form. He had to admit, Kafka had a point. The usually well-fitted, defense force issued jacket hung a bit baggy on her. And her hands, which were usually bare during office hours and combat, were now covered in a pair of thick knitted, gray gloves. Gloves that definitely weren’t part of their standard uniforms.

“Hmm…” Ichikawa thoughtfully said. “Maybe she just prefers a looser fit now. It is quite chilly today.”

Kafka wasn’t convinced. “But that’s not like her. She always liked her clothes practical and tight-fitting. Also, loose outfit during winter? You’ve got it twisted!” He chewed on his lip, a spark of curiosity igniting in his eyes. “Do you think she… got them from someone?”

The idea of his best friend borrowing a gear from someone doesn’t sit right with him! And if she did, from whom did she borrow it?

Ichikawa chuckled. “Borrowed from whom, senpai? This is captain Ashiro we’re talking about and besides, she wouldn’t borrow something that would affect her combat effectiveness.” He waved his hands. “No use pondering about it senpai, we’ll never know unless we asked her directly, you know I won’t.”

Kafka sighed, defeated.

Ichikawa have a point, it will be weird if they just come up to her face and asked if the jacket truly belongs to her. She’ll never like it and will probably give them a punishment of a hundred push ups. Also, it’s up to her on whatever piece of clothing she wants to wear anyway, baggy or fitted it’s absolutely up to her.

During the time he’s busy thinking, suddenly, the sparring session ended.

Mina and Kikoru walked back, their faces flushed with exertion. As they approached, Kafka couldn’t help but steal another glance at the gloves. They were hand knitted, obviously well-used, with a faint outline of a stitched nametag on the wrist, now faded and unreadable.

“Alright…” Mina announced, her voice crisp despite the slight puffiness of her breath in the cold air. “Let’s head inside and review the combat results. It’s getting even colder outside so we’ll have to do the training indoors.”

But as he followed the squad inside, he then whiffed a scent that came from Mina who just passed in front of him, he momentarily stopped, eyes widening. Is he the only one who caught it?

He caught a manly scent.

Is he imagining things or…?

Shaking himself mentally, he went back to walk with the team and tried to confirm if what he smelled is not just a fragment of his imagination.

“Ichikawa…” he said in a hushed voice as he clutched the shoulders of the boy.

He’s not imagining it, but maybe he’s really the only one who could smell it because of his enhanced abilities, thanks to the kaiju inhabiting inside his body.

The smell is faint, normal people wouldn’t caught it easily unless they put their nose directly into the clothing and smelled it..

It was like a man’s cologne of some sort. A wave of clean musk, the kind that evokes freshly laundered linen and the crisp mountain air. Kafka might not be fond of wearing one, but because of Haruichi and Furuhashi, he knows what fragrance for men smells like.

“Huh?” the boy looked at him with confusion.

“A-ah! Nothing!” the 32 year old man just smiled meekly.

Kafka’s cheeks burned as he remembered his earlier concern…

Who did those jacket and gloves belong to? And why was Mina wearing them? The image of the uncharacteristically loose jacket and the borrowed gloves wouldn’t leave his mind.

It sparked a quiet theory that blossomed into a knowing grin as he watched the way Mina always seemed to snuggle fondly with the piece of clothing. The barely there smile spoke volumes more than any borrowed jacket and gloves ever could.

+1. The Birthday Surprise (Gone Public!)

The day had been surprisingly quiet, a rarity for the Third Division. No Kaiju alerts, no emergency drills, just a tense calm that hung in the air. This held true until lunchtime when Okonogi, ever the planner, announced a “surprise birthday celebration” for Captain Ashiro.

The captain, ever stoic, tried to downplay the occasion, saying it’s just a normal day and they should still be alert if any emergency signals went off, but then a faint blush bloomed on her cheeks as her squad bustled around, setting up a makeshift party in the recreation room. A banner, proclaiming “Happy Birthday, Captain Ashiro!” hung on the wall, adorned with childish drawings of Kaiju being slain by stick figures. Foods and drinks are also prepared by the whole squad.

There are also gifts that are an assortment of heartfelt tokens. A framed picture of the entire Third Division, a hand-stitched stress ball shaped like her companion Bakko, a phone ornament that looked like a cat, and a collection of tactical notebooks with personalized messages scribbled inside.

Each gift came with a note, clumsy yet heartfelt messages, thanking her for being the best captain they could ask for, for being a leader who inspired them with her courage and unwavering dedication to her duty. Who inspired them to keep striving forward, be strong and help the world be rid of all the kaiju. Afterall, most of them have her as the main reason on why they decided to be a member of the defense force, to follow her footsteps.

Captain Ashiro scanned the room, a warmth spreading through her chest seeing how wide were the smiles of everyone in her division. “I’m truly fortunate to have all of you as part of the third division….” she said, her voice surprisingly soft. “Thank you for everything.”

Suddenly, a sniffle cut through the air. Kafka, the oldest member of the squad, her childhood friend stood wiping his eyes with a sleeve. “I can’t believe that you’ve grown so much, Mina! I mean, Captain Ashiro!” he blurted out, earning a playful swat on the arm from Ichikawa

She smiled, a rare sight for the ever-serious Captain. “Alright, Hibino Kafka…” she said, feigning sternness. “I suppose I can forgive you for addressing an official by their first name… today is a special occasion, after all.”

The room erupted in cheers and laughter.

They continued feasting, sharing stories, and reminiscing about past missions. It’s a rarity for them to relax like this. With the world, their country constantly getting threatened by kaiju attacks, relaxation and celebration are things they always lacked.

She’ll be sure to properly thank the brains behind the idea of this birthday celebration. Getting permission from the higher ups to conduct this event today must’ve been so hard.

Just as the celebration began to wind down and most of them have gotten tipsy because of the alcohol, the door to the recreation room creaked open. Everyone turned to see Narumi standing there, a bewildered expression on his face. He held three boxes, clearly surprised to find the room still filled with people.

“Gen…..” The captain slurred, her voice laced with a surprising amount of annoyance. “You’re late.” she said, crossing her arms.

The squad exchanged surprised looks. Even Narumi seemed momentarily stunned by her yet another uncharacteristic behavior. He quickly recovered, a wry smile playing on his lips.

“Late for what?” he asked, amusement dancing in his eyes.

Before she could answer, Nakanoshima jumped in. “Well you see, we were throwing a not so surprise birthday party for our captain, Captain Ashiro.” he explained, unable to contain his grin.

Narumi’s face turned sour looking at her vice captain but the playful smile went back when he brought his attention back to Mina. He met her halfway when she stood up to get to him, Narumi extended the boxes towards her. “Well then, happy birthday.” he said, his voice warm and slightly teasing. “Looks like I wasn’t the only one who planned a surprise.”

She took the boxes and placed it on her side, Mina is glaring at him and everyone is silent, intent to know what’s going to happen next.

“I was waiting…”

Narumi sighed and placed a hand on top of her head. “I was busy picking boxes.”

“You sure you didn’t forgot?” she squinted her eyes, sending accusations.

Narumi looked like he can’t believe what he’s hearing right now. “No I did not! I was really busy ask Hasegawa!”

Everyone in the room stared at them, so immersed in their own bubble seeming to forget that they’re not alone in the room.

“Busy gaming probably…” she glared at him one last time before turning to walk back to her previous seat.

“No what the heck?!” He grabbed her arm, and glared at the crowd behind them. “Who got you drunk anyway? You have work tomorrow!”

“I’m not drunk, also are you my mom now?”

“You!” Narumi reached for her face and pinched her cheeks. “Come on we’re going home!”

“No.”

He stared at her for a moment before sighing. Before anyone could react, a strangled cry escaped Mina’s lips as Narumi effortlessly hoisted her over his shoulder, her legs dangling comically.

Everyone’s jaw dropped on the floor.

“Whu-?! Put me down!”

“We’re going home!” he looked at the frozen members of the third division. “You too! Go home party’s over!”

And with that, he strode purposefully out of the room, leaving behind a trail of stunned silence and the bewildered image of Captain Ashiro clinging precariously to his shoulder.

The remaining squad members stood rooted to the spot, their eyes fixated on the empty space where the Captains had previously stood. The last scene, frozen in their minds like a tableau of disbelief, was Narumi’s retreating form, Captain Ashiro’s indignant yips echoing down the hallway. The triumphant celebration had taken a sharp left turn. One moment, they were raising glasses to celebrate the birth date of their beloved and respected captain the next scene and they’re stunned, silence reigned, and it’s all because of the captains.

Finally, after an eternity stretched thin by shock, Ikaruga, ever the loud one, was the first to break the silence. “What the hell was that?”

His question hung in the air, a collective voice for the bewilderment gripping the Third Division. The once lively celebration room felt cold, the air thick with the unspoken question: what had just transpired between their usually restrained captains?

As the initial shock gave way to nervous speculation, whispers and bewildered laughter filled the room.

One thing was certain – the events of the evening had provided them with a story for the ages, a tale of Captain Narumi carrying their Captain Ashiro out like a bag of potatoes.

And as the stunned squad members finally began to disperse, the image of Narumi walking away with their captain on his shoulder remained etched in their minds, a bizarre yet strangely heartwarming epilogue to the not-so-surprise birthday celebration.

EXTRA: Igarashi Jura is a Good (?) Friend!

The loud hum of the television mingled with the rhythmic clicking of controller buttons, a symphony of competition unfolding in the living room of Mina’s apartment. Left on her own devices at the kitchen as her visitors game away, Mina scowled as she arranged a mixed assortment of snacks on a tray. Pretzel sticks jostled with gourmet cheese cubes, pizza crusts huddled next to a bowl of glistening grapes.

Narumi and Igarashi were engrossed in a heated game. Igarashi, usually the picture of youthful enthusiasm, wore a frown mirroring Mina’s. She repeatedly smashed her thumbs against the controller, a frustrated growl escaping her lips with each pixelated explosions on the wide screen.

She isn’t sure how Igarashi who is the captain of the second division, got the permission to leave her division to drive away and get into Mina's apartment today.

That brings her back to how they became friends (at least that’s what she think?) both brought together with their combined assaults thrown at Narumi. The three of them got into the division almost at the same time and maybe that’s why she managed to ease up to their presence.

“Ugh, this is impossible!” she whined when her character exploded with a large ‘K.O’ displaying on the screen. “Asshole you cheated again didn’t you?!”

Narumi previously engaged in a storm of frustrated button mashing, merely smirked in triumph. “Blame your slow hands Igarashi.”

Igarashi slumped back against the couch, her energy visibly deflated. “Man, I really missed out on everything.” she mumbled, kicking her feet against the coffee table, almost knocking it over.

Mina shot her a sidelong glance as she placed the tray on the coffee table in front of them. “Missed out on what?”

A year ago she started receiving visitors and took it to herself that maybe, she needed to improve the ambiance of her apartment. Narumi told her on his first time visit that this apartment is “So dead!” and she took full offense on what he said.

Initially she didn’t care on the appearance of her quarters, preferring to keep it that way since she didn’t think she’ll be receiving guests like this. The less appliances and furniture she have, the lesser she’ll have to clean up but then she realized soon after getting told that really, maybe, she should add something to make her apartment look…. Livable.

And so here she is now, a large TV installed in her living room with pictures decorating her walls.

“The celebration!” Igarashi perked up, her eyes gleaming mischievously and with curiosity. “Apparently, you caused quite a scene with this idiot yesterday….”

Narumi’s smirk faltered for a brief moment, but he quickly schooled his features back into an impassive mask, his usual bored and lazy expression. Mina, however, flushed a faint crimson.

“There was no scene.” she mumbled, poking a stray olive back into the bowl with unnecessary force. “Narumi just… decided to leave early.”

“Early?” Igarashi echoed, eyebrows raised. “But everyone’s talking about it! They say you were practically hanging off his shoulder!”

The scowl on Mina’s face deepened. Just how fast can gossip travel from her division to the other divisions stationed kilometers away from Tachikawa?

She slammed the lid on the snack tray with a resounding thud, startling both Narumi and Igarashi.

Really, she still hasn’t chastised the idiot in question for doing that yesterday. She can quite see the headache coming up as she deal with the possible teasings and questions of her squad....

---

“It’s none of your concern, Igarashi.” Ashiro snapped, her voice laced with a barely suppressed annoyance and embarrassment. “Here, take your snacks and go back to your game.”

She thrust the bowl at Igarashi’s massive hand, and she gingerly took it.

Silence descended upon the living room, thick with unspoken tension.

Narumi finally looked away from the game, his gaze meeting hers across the room. A flicker of something unreadable passed between them, a silent conversation that left Igarashi feeling like an unwelcome intruder.

She knew all about it anyway. She’ll tease them next time.

“Alright whatever.” Igarashi piped up, trying to lighten the mood. “Let’s just forget about it, okay? New game? Winner gets treated to whatever they want?”

Ashiro and Narumi exchanged another glance, this time tinged with a hint of amusement.

“Fine.” she conceded, a ghost of a smile playing on her lips. “But no more cheating Narumi.”

Narumi frowned as he yelled, “I never cheated!”

The tension dissipated, replaced by the familiar banter of fellow captains.

Igarashi grinned, relief washing over her as the normalcy, albeit a slightly awkward one, returned. She might not have been there for the birthday celebration, but the scene she just witnessed, the unspoken words exchanged between these two, promised a story far more intriguing than any party.

It’s going to be interesting seeing them deal with the news and latest scoop in the defense force ‘Captain Narumi Gen and Captain Ashiro Mina might be dating!’ these coming days, she can’t wait to witness it all.