Chapter 2 Of "Girls Frontline: Lingering Grudges" is out now! pls check it out in my profile:)))))))))



Town Square, Italica

March 31, 2028, 04:30 (31st day of the Crescent Moon 638)

The once-bustling grand chamber of the castle was now eerily silent, save for the subdued murmurs of the remaining attendees and the distant echoes of footsteps. The trial had come to a decisive and bloody conclusion, leaving behind a grim tableau of the aftermath.

Outside the castle, the scene was starkly different. US Marines and JSDF soldiers worked diligently, as they packed up their equipment and prepared to depart. The bandits, now processed and subdued, were being loaded onto trucks, their once defiant postures replaced by subdued resignation.

In the midst of this, Bravo One and Third Recon were also preparing to leave. Itami stood by one of the vehicles, glancing over a clipboard to ensure everything was in order while Adam methodically checked the last of the supplies.

Adam: Hell of a way to wrap things up. Thought this was gonna be a simple escort mission. Itami looked up from his clipboard, the exhaustion evident in his eyes. Itami: Yeah, but nothing's ever simple here, is it?

Adam scoffed at Itami's statement, his lips curling into a wry smile as he finished securing the last of the gear.

Adam: Simple's never in the cards, huh?

Before Itami could respond, the soft sound of footsteps approached. Andrew and Kurokawa appeared from around the corner, Andrew carrying Red in his arms, fast asleep. The young girl's head rested against Andrew's shoulder, her peaceful slumber a stark contrast to the tension surrounding them.

Andrew gave a tired grin as he approached the group, adjusting his hold on Red carefully.

Andrew: She finally passed out. Long day for her.

Kurokawa walked alongside them, her face softening as she glanced at the sleeping child.

Kurokawa: I guess we're all due for some rest after today.

Adam shook his head, looking at the little girl wrapped up in Andrew's arms.

Adam: Kid's tougher than she looks. Hell, tougher than half the guys I know.

Itami chuckled under his breath, but the fatigue in his expression remained.

Itami: Well, considering what she's been through. She's probably tougher than all of us

Adam shook his head as he glanced at Red, still sound asleep in Andrew's arms.

Adam: Might as well be the case. She's been through more than most of us have seen in a lifetime.

Andrew glanced down at Red, still peacefully asleep in his arms, and nodded toward Kurokawa.

Andrew: We should get her settled in one of the vehicles. She's had enough for one day.

Kurokawa, ever the caretaker, agreed with a soft smile.

Kurokawa: Let's make sure she's comfortable.

As Andrew and Kurokawa left, Skiff and Fort approached Adam and Itami, Skiff gave a nod of acknowledgment before addressing them.

Skiff: You guys all set to roll out?

Adam straightened up, glancing at the vehicles.

Adam: Almost, just need to do a head count before we head back. What about you? Are you all heading back as well?

Fort shook his head, a faint smirk crossing his face.

Fort: Nah, not this time. Got word from the Boss—apparently, all Shadows currently stationed here are staying put.

Adam: Right...

He paused, rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly as he glanced at Skiff and Fort.

Adam: Look, about earlier at the bar—I was out of line. With everything going on, it just... it got to me. You guys made your choice to join Shadow Company, and I've got no right to tell you what you can and can't do. That's on me.

Skiff waved a hand, brushing off Adam's apology with a light shrug.

Skiff: Don't sweat it. Happens to the best of us. This whole mess has everyone on edge. We're all just trying to do our jobs, same as you.

Fort nodded in agreement, the smirk on his face replaced with a more understanding expression.

Fort: Water under the bridge, man. We've all had moments like that.

Adam sighed in relief, giving them both a small nod of appreciation.

Adam: Thanks. Just glad we're on the same page.

Itami, who had been quietly observing the exchange, finally chimed in with a curious look.

Itami: Speaking of your boss, where is he anyway?

Skiff considered Itami's question for a moment, then shrugged. Skiff: Probably still at the castle. I'd guess he's sorting out the details of the "deal" he talked about. Didn't give me the details of what it was but I could guess what it was, considering we're staying and all.

Itami raised an eyebrow, intrigued by Skiff's comment.

Itami: Yeah I've heard about him talking about some "deal" he had in place...Any idea what it was about?

Fort stepped in, offering his own guess with a thoughtful look.

Fort: Well with all the Shadows here staying put I'm guessing Graves wants to set up a base or something.

Adam's eyes widened as he pieced together the implications of Fort's guess. A knowing grin spread across his face.

Adam: Right, that makes sense. Using a PMC and not the Military for something like this keeps things low profile. Guess no matter the situation, some habits never change. Even when you're in a whole different world, Uncle Sam's still finding ways to keep things in line.

Itami's eyes narrowed as he processed Adam's realization. He turned to Adam, a look of concern crossing his face. Itami: Well... guess we gotta apologize to the glasses dude huh?

Before Adam and Itami could delve further into their discussion, Kuribayashi's voice cut through the cold morning air, calling out to them.

Kuribayashi: Lieutenant! Sergeant! We're almost ready to leave!

Adam and Itami exchanged a glance and headed over to Kuribayashi. Offering parting words as they prepared to depart.

Adam: Stay safe out there, guys. Catch you around.

Fort and Skiff nodded.

Fort: You too.

Adam and Itami made their way over to their team, where Tomita and Hill were busy loading crates of coins onto one of the vehicles. The results of Lelei, Rory, and Tuka selling off the wyvern scales they had collected.

Tomita: We're almost done here. Looks like the haul's bigger than we thought.

Hill nodded, his hands moving efficiently as he organized the final crates.

Hill: Yeah, those scales turned out to be quite the payday.

Lelei, Rory, and Tuka were nearby, overseeing them with a mix of satisfaction and fatigue.

Lelei: Everything's in order. Just need to make sure we don't leave anything behind.

Rory: Not bad for a day's work, huh?

Tuka: Yeah! We'll be heading back with a lot more than we came with.

Adam raised an eyebrow as he glanced at the crates being loaded into the vehicles.

Adam: So, how much did you guys manage to get for selling those scales?

Itami, curious as well, chimed in.

Itami: Yeah, that haul looks pretty impressive.

Lelei, still a bit tired from the day's negotiations, responded in her usual calm and measured tone.

Lelei: Enough to feed ourselves for the next five years.

Rory smirked, clearly proud of the day's work.

Rory: More than enough. We might be eating like royalty for a while.

Tuka nodded in agreement, her expression light and cheerful.

Tuka: Who knew wyvern scales could fetch such a high price?

Adam let out a low whistle, clearly impressed.

Adam: Well, damn. Looks like you guys hit the jackpot.

Perez walked over, wiping some sweat from his brow as he helped lift one of the heavier crates onto the vehicle.

Perez: Yeah, it'd be nice if it wasn't so fucking heavy.

Adam smirked, giving him a pat on the shoulder.

Adam: That's the price of gold, my friend. Or in this case, flying lizard scales.

Itami chuckled, watching as Perez and the others continued to load up.

Itami: At least it's a good problem to have.

Lelei, with her usual matter-of-fact tone, added:

Lelei: Wealth often comes with its own set of challenges.

Perez rolled his eyes playfully.

Perez: Yeah, I'd take a little less wealth if it meant lighter lifting.

While the group busied themselves with loading the crates, a pair of sharp, light blue eyes watched from the shadows of a nearby rooftop. The woman crouched low, her brown hair catching the faint moonlight as it swayed gently in the breeze. Her bunny ears twitched with every sound and movement below, keenly attuned to the laughter and conversation drifting up from the ground.

???: What a weird group of humans...

She narrowed her eyes, still watching the humans below when suddenly, a soft but familiar voice came from behind her.

Mammina: Still up to your old tricks, Delilah?

Startled, Delilah whipped around, her bunny ears twitching in surprise. There, standing in the shadows, was Mammina, her old friend. A knowing smile played on Mammina's lips as she regarded Delilah with a mix of curiosity and amusement.

Delilah: Mammina... What are you doing here?

Mammina raised an eyebrow, her smile softening as she leaned casually against a nearby chimney.

Mammina: Just checking on you. You were noticeably absent during the battle earlier.

Delilah huffed, folding her arms as her bunny ears twitched in mild annoyance.

Delilah: I was going to help, really. But those otherworlders took care of the bandits so quickly, I didn't even get the chance to jump in.

Mammina let out a light laugh, waving off Delilah's comment with a flick of her hand.

Mammina: Oh, I'm sure you would've made quite the impression. But don't worry, there'll be more chances to show off.

Delilah's lips twitched in amusement, but her gaze remained fixed on the group below. Her tone shifted, becoming more thoughtful, more serious.

Delilah: What do you make of them, Mammina? The otherworlders.

Mammina's smile faded as she considered Delilah's question, her gaze following the movements of the otherworlders below. She sighed, a hint of relief mixed with unease in her eyes.

Mammina: Honestly? I'm just glad they showed up when they did. Things could've gone very differently if they'd decided to point their weapons at Italica instead of the bandits.

Delilah's ears perked up, catching the subtle tension in Mammina's voice.

Delilah: You think they could've turned on us?

Mammina: Who knows? With power like that, they could've crushed us if they wanted. But for now, it seems we're on their good side. That's enough for me—at least for the moment.

Delilah's gaze sharpened, her eyes locking onto Mammina with a newfound intensity. She shifted slightly, her voice quieter but more pointed.

Delilah: Do you think... they'd help us? Free our people?

Mammina's expression grew thoughtful as she considered Delilah's question. She looked down at the otherworlders, her gaze lingering on their interactions and the aftermath of the trial.

Mammina: It's hard to say. They did help the Countess by taking down the slave traders' guild, but it was a bit more personal. They were motivated by the fact that one of their own had rescued a demi-human child.

Delilah's eyes widened in surprise as she absorbed Mammina's explanation. Her ears drooped slightly in disbelief.

Delilah: Wait...That's why they help round up those bastards? A single demi-human child?

Mammina couldn't help but chuckle softly at Delilah's reaction.

Mammina: My, you had the same reaction as that bitch of a princess. She couldn't believe it either.

Delilah blinked, her ears twitching in disbelief as she processed the comparison.

Delilah: I don't know if I like that comparison or not...

Mammina raised an eyebrow, her amusement still evident.

Mammina: So, what now? You planning to stick around or get involved?

Delilah's gaze drifted back to the group of otherworlders. A spark of curiosity and determination flashed in her amber eyes as she responded.

Delilah: I think I'll follow them. See what they're really about.

Mammina shrugged, clearly indifferent to Delilah's decision.

Mammina: Suit yourself. Just be careful.

With that, Mammina turned and quietly slipped back into the shadows, leaving Delilah alone on the rooftop. The bunny-eared woman watched her friend disappear, then turned her attention back to the otherworlders below.

Gathering herself, Delilah leaped gracefully from the rooftop, landing with barely a sound behind the group. She then approached one of the otherworlders who was wearing a dark brown uniform.

Delilah: Excuse me.

The man turned, surprised to see the bunny-eared woman standing before him.

Delilah: I want to come with you. To Alnus Hill, Is that possible?

The Marine blinked in surprise, momentarily taken aback by Delilah's request. He adjusted his grip on his rifle, giving her a once-over before responding.

Marine: Uh, I don't have the authority to—

Before he could finish his sentence, his commanding officer a woman with blonde hair stepped forward, cutting him off.

Female CO: What's going on here Marine?

The Marine straightened up immediately.

Marine: Lieutenant Porter, this lady said she wants to come with us to Alnus Hill. But I was just about to— She held up her hand, silencing him. Her gaze shifted to Delilah, her expression unreadable as he considered her request.

Porter kept her gaze fixed on Delilah, eyes narrowing slightly in thought.

Porter: What's your name?

Delilah stood tall, her bunny ears twitching slightly but her voice steady.

Delilah: Delilah.

Porter nodded slowly, then crossed her arms, her expression still unreadable.

Porter: Alright, Delilah. My name is Porter, Why do you want to come with us to Alnus Hill?

Delilah met Porter's gaze, her expression unwavering.

Delilah: I want to go to Alnus Hill to work, Miss Porter.

Porter eyed Delilah for a long moment as if weighing her request. Finally, she gave a curt nod.

Porter: Fine. Follow me.

Delilah trailed behind, her bunny ears twitching with curiosity as they moved through the town square. Strange, boxy wagons made entirely of metal were being loaded with the captured bandits, their unusual design catching her eye.

As they moved further, Porter led her to another vehicle, smaller but just as imposing. Unlike the longer wagons, this one had a squat, sturdy shape, almost like a heavily armored chest on wheels.

Porter walked up to this metal beast, pulling open a small hatch on the side

Porter: Get in.

Delilah hesitated, eyeing the strange interior. There were seats, like in a carriage, but firmer and made of an odd material she couldn't quite place. As she climbed in, the space felt almost claustrophobic, but it had a sense of security, like being inside a fortress.

Delilah climbed into the vehicle, taking her seat while a Marine who had been waiting in the driver's seat turned a switch, bringing the machine to life with a deep, rumbling roar. The vibrations coursed through the vehicle as it jolted awake. Delilah tensed for a moment, her eyes darting toward the front where Porter sat in the passenger seat, but she quickly relaxed.

Marine: We all set Lieutenant?

Porter: Yup we have a guess though hope you don't mind. The Marine glanced over his shoulder at Delilah, then back at Porter, shaking his head with a smirk.

Marine: Guess I don't mind, as long as she doesn't cause any trouble.

Porter chuckled, her gaze shifting to Delilah.

Porter: Don't worry, she's tougher than she looks. Just focus on getting us to Alnus in one piece.

Porter then glanced over her shoulder with a smirk.

Porter: Alnus Hill isn't like any place you've ever been in. Hope you're ready.

Delilah smiled back, her eyes gleaming with determination.

Delilah: I'm ready. Let's go.

Formal Family Castle, Italica

March 31, 2028, 04:42 (31st day of the Crescent Moon 638)

Pina wandered through the dimly lit corridors of the Formal Family Castle, the weight of the previous day's events heavy on her shoulders. As she walked, the echoes of the previous day's chaos continued to haunt her. The loud bang of Graves' weapon, a sound that had punctuated the grim climax of the trial, reverberated in her ears. Just as she rounded a corner, Hamilton appeared, her face a mask of concern. She had been searching for Pina after noticing her absence from the bedroom. The sight of her friend brought a momentary pause to Pina's troubled thoughts.

Hamilton: Your Highness! There you are. I was worried when I didn't find you in your room. Is everything alright?

Pina turned to face Hamilton, her expression a mixture of fatigue and emotional strain. The comfort of her friend's presence was a welcome respite from the cold, unfeeling walls of the castle.

Pina: Hamilton, I'm... I'm fine. Just needed some air to clear my head.

Hamilton's gaze softened, though worry remained etched in her features.

Hamilton: I understand. The events of yesterday were... intense, to say the least. But it's not good to be wandering the castle alone at this hour. Is there anything I can do to help?

Pina shook her head slightly, appreciating the offer but struggling to articulate her feelings.

Pina: It's just—everything is so overwhelming...

Hamilton stepped closer, placing a reassuring hand on Pina's arm.

Hamilton: It's okay to feel that way. What happened was far from ordinary, and, understandably, you're struggling.

Pina looked at Hamilton, her eyes reflecting both gratitude and the depth of her inner conflict.

Pina: Thank you, Hamilton. It means a lot to have your support right now. Perhaps... perhaps a brief walk together would help.

Hamilton nodded, her expression easing into a supportive smile.

Hamilton: Of course. Let's take a walk and talk if you're up for it. It might help clear your mind.

Meanwhile, in another part of the castle, Myui lay restlessly in her bed. Despite her exhaustion, sleep eluded her, leaving her tossing and turning beneath the heavy covers. The events of yesterday—the trial, the tension, the death—had left an indelible mark on her mind.

A gentle knock on the door interrupted her troubled thoughts. Myui, surprised by the visitor, sat up in bed and called out.

Myui: Come in.

The door creaked open, and Mammina stepped into the room. Her presence was a welcome distraction, a beacon of familiarity amid Myui's disquiet. Mamminas usual calm demeanor was evident, though there was a hint of concern in her eyes. Mammina: My lady, I heard from Madam Kaine you were having trouble sleeping. Mind if I join you for a moment?

Myui managed a small, appreciative smile.

Myui: Please, come in. I could use some company.

Mammina approached the bed and sat down on the edge, her gaze taking in Myui's restless state.

Mammina: It's been a rough day. I can understand why you're struggling. Sometimes, it helps to talk about it. What's on your mind?

Myui looked down, her fingers twisting the edge of her blanket.

Myui: Mammina, do you think I did the right thing?

Mammina's gaze softened as she took in Myui's troubled expression. She moved closer, placing a comforting hand on Myui's shoulder.

Mammina: My lady, I believe you did the right thing. Your father was a wise and just man.

She gave Myui's shoulder a gentle squeeze, her voice filled with reassurance. Mammina: I am confident that he would have supported your actions. You acted with integrity and compassion, and that's what truly matters.

Myui's eyes reflected a deep inner conflict as she continued, her voice trembling slightly.

Myui: Mammina, I took four lives yesterday. Yes, they were guilty of treason but...

Myui's voice trembled as she continued, her eyes downcast, struggling to articulate her thoughts.

Myui: No matter how much people saw my father as a kind-hearted noble, he still put people to death when necessary. It seemed like he was never bothered by it, never doubting his actions. I... I don't think I could be like that even if I tried.

Mammina's expression softened as she listened to Myui's confession. She took a deep breath, then spoke with gentle conviction. Mammina: My lady, I believe you might be misunderstanding your father. He faced the same burdens and doubts that you're feeling now. He showed a strong face for the sake of his people, but that doesn't mean he was without internal conflict. He made tough decisions, yes, but I am certain he too struggled with the weight of those choices.

Myui's eyes welled with tears as she absorbed Mammina's words. Her emotions, held in check until now, finally broke free. She let out a shuddering breath, her shoulders shaking with silent sobs.

Myui: I hate it... I hate taking lives. I never imagined it would feel like this. I miss my father so much... and I fear I'll never be able to live up to him. I'm so scared of failing, of being unable to honor his memory.

Mammina's heart ached for her young lady. She reached out, pulling Myui into a comforting embrace, her voice soothing and firm.

Mammina: It's alright to feel this way, My lady. Your father's strength wasn't about being unfeeling; it was about bearing the weight of leadership with courage. You're showing that same courage now by confronting these feelings and seeking to do what's right.

She held Myui close, her resolve unwavering.

Mammina: You may never fully escape the pain of these decisions, but that doesn't mean you won't honor your father's legacy. Your empathy, your doubt, and your desire to do right—these are the very things that make you worthy of his legacy. You're on the path to becoming a leader of great compassion and strength.

Myui, comforted by Mammina's words, gradually fell asleep in her embrace. Mammina carefully laid her down and tucked her into bed, her expression a mix of affection and concern.

After a moment, Mammina turned and called softly towards the door.

Mammina: You can come in now.

Graves, who had been waiting outside, looked surprised but entered quietly.

Graves: Didn't think you'd notice me, Miss Mammina.

Mammina raised an eyebrow, her gaze curious.

Mammina: What were you doing out there?

Graves shrugged, his expression thoughtful.

Graves: I was waiting for a chance to talk to the Countess, but the timing didn't seem right.

Mammina nodded, understanding.

Graves glanced over at Myui, his eyes reflecting a mix of admiration and respect.

Graves: She's quite mature for her age, isn't she?

Mammina nodded, a soft smile touching her lips.

Mammina: Yes, she has wisdom and strength that belies her years. It's been a heavy burden for her, but she carries it with grace. Now, what did you want to discuss with the Countess, Mr. Graves?

Graves: With the slavers' guild disbanded, I was hoping to use their facilities for our own needs.

Mammina considered this for a moment, then nodded.

Mammina: I'll prepare the necessary documents. I'll discuss it with the Countess once she wakes.

Graves: Thank you, Miss Mammina. I appreciate it.

As Graves turned to leave, Mammina's voice stopped him.

Mammina: One more thing, Mr. Graves. Why help the Countess? What's in it for you beyond just your interests?

Graves paused, turning back to face her.

Graves: When I look at the Countess, I see a bit of my younger self—idealistic, driven by a sense of duty.

He continued, his gaze distant as he reminisced.

Graves: It reminds me of when I first enlisted in the Army. Young and full of patriotism, believing in making a difference.

His tone shifted, growing more bitter as he spoke.

Graves: Over time, though, that idealism was chipped away by the harsh realities of my world. I became jaded and disillusioned. Helping the Countess... it's a way of holding onto that spark of hope, trying to reclaim a piece of who I used to be.

Mammina listened quietly, her expression softening as Graves' words sank in.

Mammina: I understand now. I'm sorry for doubting you, Mr. Graves.

Graves waved a hand dismissively, though there was no real malice in his gesture.

Graves: Don't worry about it. I would've acted the same way if our positions were reversed. Skepticism is part of survival where I come from.

He glanced back at Myui, her small figure peaceful in sleep.

Graves: I just hope she doesn't end up like me—cynical, worn down by the world. She's got a chance to do things differently.

Turning back to Mammina, he gave her a brief nod.

Graves: Anyway, thanks for hearing me out. Let's just keep this between us, yeah?

Mammina offered a reassuring smile, her voice soft but firm.

Mammina: Don't worry, Mr. Graves. You can trust me. What you shared stays between us.

Graves studied her for a moment, the weight of her words settling in. He gave a small, appreciative nod, his usual guarded expression softening slightly.

Graves: I appreciate that, Miss Mammina. It's rare to find someone you can count on these days.

Mammina's smile widened slightly, her eyes reflecting understanding.

Mammina: Likewise, Mr. Graves. We all have our battles, but it helps to know we're not alone in facing them.

Graves gave her a quick, appreciative smile, his usual confidence slipping back into place.

Graves: I'll hold you to that.

As Graves was about to step out of the room, a crackle came through his radio, Skiff's voice breaking the silence.

Skiff: Shadow Actual this is Hitman Two-One, we've got a bit of a situation here. Some of the freed slaves we picked up are getting rowdy. Could use some backup.

Graves paused, his expression hardening slightly as he processed the message. He turned his attention back to Mammina briefly.

Graves: Duty calls.

He then pressed the radio to his mouth, his voice calm but authoritative.

Graves: Stay put Hitman Two-One. I'm on my way. Keep things under control until I get there.

Skiff: Copy that, Commander. We'll hold tight.

Graves glanced at Mammina once more, giving her a nod of acknowledgment.

Graves: Gotta handle this. Catch you later.

Mammina gave Graves a slight, reassuring smile.

Mammina: Good luck, Mr. Graves. We'll be here if you need anything.

Graves nodded, a brief smile of his own touching his lips.

Graves: Thanks, Miss Mammina. I'll be in touch.