Author Notes:

Before anyone asked, the paragraphs in italic at the start of the chapters is a series of flashbacks from the perspective of certain characters. Sometimes it would be from the perspective of the chapter's POV character, sometimes it won't. Also it won't be in a chronological order, but they follow the same characters. I dubbed them 'a piece of brighter days'. Anyway enjoy and remember, Borders is the root of all problems.

Disclaimer: I don't own Ace Combat.

Today was supposed to be great. No school, no homework, no chores, and best of all, mom had made the best thing that ever existed. Brownies, and with them at work, that means I can have all of them for myself. Usually during days like these, I would play games with friends and if I can't do that I would go outside, to the park right across our home sitting around the fountain, just taking in the scenery, but this stupid rain just had to come and ruin everything. Mom and dad had made themselves clear that I was not allowed to leave while it still raining, even though the park was right there saying that I might catch a cold or something. I understand though, I'm 9 years old after all, I'm a responsible adult. So here I am, sitting by the window looking over the world outside with my chin resting on my hand, bored to death, on a day that every kid had dreamed at some point.

I looked at the gloomy sky above. This rain won't end anytime soon, would they? I sighed, I originally wanted to invite some friends to come over to try that new video games that everyone keep talking about, but guess now I have to settle on playing it myself. I was about to move away from the window when I saw something moving outside. Someone is walking around the park, looks like another kid, though I can't tell if they're boy or girl. Who's that? What are they doing? How come their parents allowed them to wander around in the rain and alone when mine didn't even allowed me to get my toes wet? It's not fa-, I mean they can get sick! I ran to the front door, taking one of the umbrellas near it. I have to save them! But as I was nearing the door I stopped. Mom and dad had told me not to go outside, they may get angry if they find out. Doesn't matter, they'll understand, It's my duty as an adult after all. Opening the door, I quickly cross the street into the park. Where are they? They have to be nearby, I'll keep looking. I WILL NOT FAIL!

/approx. 5 minutes later/

"WHERE ARE THEY?" I shouted. I've scour the park at least a million times already, but they're nowhere to be found! Now that I think about it there are no other person around either. A realization suddenly hit me. What if the kid I saw wasn't a kid at all? What if they weren't even human? I've seen this on TV before, a curious kid gets lured by what appear to be another kid into a secluded place only to find out that said child was actually a man-eating monstrosity. I suddenly feel my knees grow weak, is that what happen now? Am I going to get eaten by a monster? Regrets filled my heart, why didn't I listen?! Now I'll end up as a snack for some ugly, hairy monster. I'll never be able to become a pilot, I'll never be able to enjoy another brownies, and worst of all the monster might eat them after they're done eating me. Tears started to well up in my eyes before I remember something. I have an umbrella, I've seen mom chase away a spider with it and if mom can use this to beat a spider, then surely I can use this to beat a monster. Yes that's it! I won't be eaten anytime soon as long as I have this. Risking getting drenched, I steeled myself. I'm ready now, I'll beat up this monster and then when everyone heard of this, they'll reward me with even more brownies! Okay, let's do this, come at me monsters!

For a while I stood there, waiting for them to come, but they never did. I must've scared them off. "Yeah that's right! Run you monsters and don't ever comeback!" I shouted at the most likely fleeing monstrosity. They thought they can eat me?! Well think again! But it's still too early to celebrate, some of them might still be around. My guess is proven right when I felt something touching my shoulder. Spinning quickly, I immediately strike.

"AHH, take this you monster!" I shouted at the top of my lungs. I keep hitting it even when it was down on the ground. I'll make sure this thing regret ever coming here before I stopped! After I finally satisfied with what I done, I take a good look at the fallen beast in front of me, only to immediately regret it. What lay in front of me was not a monster, but a boy around my age. T-this isn't the kid that I saw earlier, right? My face went pale. I just killed someone.

Fort Grays Island, Southeast Usea

15 May 2019

Victoria 'Brownie' Hardy

"The carrier… Whoa! Looks like the harbor's taken a lot of damage," I said as me and the rest of Golem squadron flew past said harbor.

"Can't have anymore casualties, time to stop the bullshit," our Flight Commander and Golem's number 1, 'Knocker', said over the radio, indicating it's time for some action. I looked at my radar and saw Trigger's already up in the air and the bomber right in front of us. The Commander seem to have saw this as well.

"Mage 2, form up with Mage 1. All aircraft, let's do this. Golem Squadron, it's go time," he ordered, which was responded by all but one of us.

"This is the AWACS 'Sky Keeper'. Take down all unidentified bombers. They don't have many escorts," Our AWACS ordered us before continuing, "They hit our radars hard in the last attack. Expect the worst and stay sharp."

"Wilco," Golem 1 answered

I again took another look at my radar and see Trigger fast approaching, completely disregarding his wingman, Mage 1, 'Clown'. Thankfully he didn't seem to mind, instead only reminding his number 2 that they're now flying together. I shifted my attention to the horizon, spotting the bomber in the distance, without any escorts for some reason. Easy picking.

Before I can do anything however, Trigger's already zoomed past us and took it down. I hear Sky Keeper and Mage 1 confirming and complimenting him for it, as if he was just another rookie fresh from the flight school. I don't see the need though, that sort of thing are nothing for him.

"All aircraft, hostile group detected, a bomber and two escorts, bearing 280. They're high."

"Roger that. Let's introduce ourselves," Mage 1 responded.

I check my radar to confirm it, looks like they're going for another round. Just like earlier, Trigger already way ahead of us with Clown following behind him. While I know he can deal with them just fine, I can't help but feel a pang of worry. Before I can break formation however, Knocker already ordered us to go after him. By the time we reached him, he already took the group down, and once again left us in the dust and leaving his poor wingman to catch up again. I noticed that there aren't any parachute in the air. …No time for that now, Sky Keeper has detected another targets near Trigger's position and for some reason only notify him about it. Looks like he can add another one in the list of people that were counting on him.

"Heh, you got this Trigger," I hear Mage 1 encouraging him.

"I know the kid's shown some promise, but let's remember, he's still barely gotten his feet wet," ever the strict leader, Golem 1.

4 tangos, a pair of bombers and escorts, Tu-95s and MiG-21s. He can easily take them all out with his 4AAM, but knowing him, he'll probably won't waste it and use his gun instead. As if to answer my question, he done exactly that, quickly shooting down one of the escort. The other one tried to force him to overshoot, but he counter this by doing a lag roll and they too fall to his attack. The bombers tried to retaliate themselves by firing their rear guns, to no avail, they doesn't even come close to hitting him.

"Enemy bombers down. Nice going, Mage 2," Sky Keeper confirming his kills.

"Not too shabby, Mage 2. But you still got a long way to go kid. I'll give you some pointers back at base, if you can make it in one piece," I can tell already that they will get along quite well.

"Sky Keeper, this is Mage 1, over. Tally two bandits," Clown reporting.

"Copy that. It's a bomber and an escort," I check the radar and confirm two bogeys behind us, with Trigger already closing in on his own.

"Whoa there, Trigger. Settle down," Clown called after him. Our Flight Commander also seems to have grown irritated at his recklessness.

"Mage 2! Maintain your element with Mage 1! Do not break off! Mage 1, make sure he doesn't do anything stupid," he warned.

"Wilco, Golem 1."

I was tempted to go after him myself, but it seems the Commander has sensed my apprehension.

"Golem 2, let's maintain element."

"Copy that Commander, I got your six covered, sir," I answered. Dammit, stay calm! He'll be fine.

"Golem, Mage, two new enemy groups."

"Golem, we'll deal with the bigger group. Mage, you deal with the other," Golem 1 ordered.

I followed my squadron to intercept the group. Looking back, I watched as Mage squadron slowly became a tiny speck in the distance. I checked my radar one last time to make sure they're still exist before trying to focus myself on the enemies in front of us. I sighed, here I am, risking my life and the thing I worried about is someone else's life, someone who by all account, much better than me.

"Alright there they are. Remember, hesitating for a split second could be the difference between life and death. Stay sharp, think fast," Golem 1 reminded us.

"Roger that," I responded. While he doesn't really point a finger at anyone, I know exactly who he aimed that statement to. As we're approaching the group, I heard a new voice coming from the radio. It was the HQ.

"This is International Union Peacekeeping Force HQ, attention all combat groups. Are there any drones? Verify," Drones? What is he talking about?

"Drones? Are you kidding me right now? Jesus! This is the kinda shit that really chaps my ass," Knocker complained, that's new.

"UAVs? I can't tell them apart," Mage 1 said, also wondering the same thing.

"Don't worry about that now, we've still got a job to do."

We're finally able to see the opposition. 4 bombers, 6 escorts, one in particular caught my eye. A red and white MiG-21. From what I understood, when a fighter has a different appearance than the rest of their unit no matter how small, that fighter pilot is most likely an ace. The only one with an actual experience in our squadron was our Flight Lead, if that enemy decide to take on anyone else, we'll be in serious trouble. Said Flight Lead also noticed this.

"Looks like we got an ace to deal with. Golem, leave them to me, Mage squadron, how's the situation over there?"

"We've just finished up here, you guys need a hand?"

"Affirmative, get over here quick."

"Roger that, heads up we're coming from your twelve. Hey Trigger, leave one of them for me this time, alright?" I chuckled slightly at that.

"Take them down people," Golem 1 ordered.

I picked a target and decided to try what Trigger did earlier. I closed in on them on full afterburner, just like what happened earlier, the pilot tried to force me to overshoot and like earlier I counter them with a lag roll. I carefully aimed for the wing, to give them a better chance to survive. While I've accepted the fact that I might kill someone sooner or later, I'm not going to embrace it just because it's inevitable. I keep an eye on them until I see the pilot bailing out, thank god for that. I scan my radar and surroundings for a moment. The Commander is going toe to toe with the ace while Golem 3 and Golem 4 is dealing with the rest of the escorts. I noticed that the bombers are vulnerable right now and consider attacking it, but went against it when I hear Mage approaching.

"Golem 1, Mage 1. Cavalry's here," as if to emphasize that, Trigger release his 4AAM to take of all of the bomber at once. Without missing a beat, he move in to assist Golem 3 and 4, taking out 3 out of 4 fighter that's been harassing them, leaving the last one to Mage 1.

That only leave that ace. Despite being alone and their mission has basically been shot down along with the bombers, they don't retreat. If anything, they're even more ferocious than before. While earlier Golem 1 can keep up with them just fine, now he can barely did.

"Damn, this guy's good," Golem 1 commented.

"Golem 1, 2 is moving to assist!" I said. I know I can't take them on, but at least I can distract it enough for the others to bring them down, I hope anyway. Too bad he disagree.

"Negative, stay out of this!"

"Golem 1, Mage 1. Let me help you with that," Mage 1 said. Okay, I might not be able to help, but he surely can, right?

Sadly, it wasn't meant to be. While Mage 1 assistance proved to be enough to distract the pilot for a moment, it's not nearly enough to actually defeat them. So this is how an ace fly, huh? I've got to admit, I'm impressed. The way they fly, it certainly made me realize how green I really was.

I was so distracted with the show of skills in front of me that I literally jumped in my seat when Trigger zoomed past me. He engage the pilot, forcing them to break off and I was treated to an even better show of skills. Unlike Clown and Knocker, Trigger can keep up with them just fine, though it look less like he's keeping up and more like he's already ahead of them, as if he knew what they're going to do before even themselves. No matter what the enemy pilot do, it didn't deter him, staying glued to their tail. This goes on for another minute until the enemy, probably starting to grow unnerved by his persistence made a mistake, a mistake that cost them their live.

"To Golem and Mage. Job well done. All bombers are down. Our radar show no sign of bandits. You're in the clear."

I released a breath that I didn't know I've been holding. That was intense. I glance at Mage, they're finally formed up and it only took them a whole mission.

"Good going, Mage 2. Flight Commander, looks like he's got what it takes," Mage 1 said proudly. Seeing that he singlehandedly shoot down 22 out of 24 enemy aircraft with one of them is a possible ace, It's hard not to. But, he's still technically a rookie or a "hatchling" like me, it's still far too early to burden him with expectations, or at least, I, don't want people burdening him too much. Thankfully, our Flight Commander has the right idea.

"Let's slow down. It's just one sortie. Trigger, don't try to be a hero. I want you to make it back in one piece, you hear?"

"Yeah, I gotta side with the bossman on this," I said, voicing my agreement. That sort of orders usually got ignored unless someone he knew also vouched for it. I hear HQ on the radio again.

"Golem squadron, this is HQ. Did you confirm any drones?"

"What's the deal with all the drones?" Golem 1 asked.

"Golem 1, return to base and report for debriefing."

Really, what drones are they talking about?

After we land, I was ordered to get Trigger. As I made my way to him, I took a quick look at the base. While we've suffered some losses including the Albatross, the base itself seems to be intact, thanks to Trigger. We're really just wasting fuel up there. At least no one can doubt his ace status now.

I saw him still sitting in his cockpit, looking up just staring at nothing in particular while twirling his hair, indicating he's in deep in thought. There's something on his mind, something important if he put this many effort thinking about it. One of the crewman tried to get his attention, to no avail. Guess I have to step in.

"I'll handle this," I said to them. I climbed up the ladder and get his helmet off him. I put my hand on the back of his head, caressing his black hair, the darkest one that I've ever seen and put my face close to his.

And then I pulled back and smack him as hard as I can.

The force was enough to knock his head forward, stopped short just inches away from the panel. Slowly, he straightened his neck to meet my smiling face with his usual blank one.

"Come on, these guys got a job to do. You can daydream later," I said. I climbed down the ladder and looked up at him, he still sitting there.

"Now, Trigger," I said again. Whatever is he thinking then must've been really important. Maybe he's thinking about the drones that HQ's been fussing about? He finally made a move after a few more seconds of staring contest, grabbing and pocketing something before leaving the cockpit. I waited until he stand beside me, making sure I can still see him from the corner of my eyes. He'll wander off otherwise. Hmm, where's his hat?

"Let's go, we got a debriefing to do," I said.

I wanted to do some catching up with him, like how he's been doing and the like, just the usual stuff two friends would usually do when they meet again after being away from each other for a while. But he never been fond of small talk and we weren't separated all that long anyway. Our mutual associates also made sure that I stay up to date with his life. So instead I kept my mouth shut. Being quiet like this might feel awkward with others but with him it was …different.

There is one thing that I have to make sure though.

"Listen, I need you to keep something in mind," no response, but I knew that he's listening.

"I'm sure you already know this but getting you here wasn't exactly a cake walk. The General Staff Office won't let you off that easily next time, so you better not take this chance for granted, okay?" He made a move to leave but I put a hand in front of him.

"Trigger," I said sternly. He stopped.

"You're not in Osea anymore. Our job here is to maintain peace, no attacking unless you're told to attack," I think for a moment before continuing, "Also stay away from trouble. If I ever so much as heard you're involved in one, I don't care whether you caused it or got sucked into one, I'll be… very upset, understand?" It was a weak warning for others, but it's more effective on him than say, threatening to kick his ass. There's a reason why bullies were so afraid of him back then. He stared at me for a moment before nodding, but I'm not convinced.

"Say it, 'yes Brownie, I understand'," I said. His expression might not change but I know that he's starting to get annoyed. He only tolerate bossy people if they're more experienced than him, the only reason he listen to me at all is because of our relation. But I have to make sure or it will be Heierlark all over again, as they used to say, 'strangers plus Trigger equals trouble'. He finally responded, by doing a lip trill on me.

…Close enough.

I retracted my hand and motioned him to follow me again. As I though some of the base personnel tried to congratulate him and some of the bolder ones, particularly the female ones, tried to 'get to know him'.

"Sorry. We're in a hurry," I said as I grabbed him by the arm and pulled him away from them. We got a debriefing to do, we don't have time for courtesy.

I'm not jealous.

We made our way to the briefing room, passing more people. Thankfully, his dislike of small talk means he ignored them, which make it easier for me to drag him along. When we reached our destination, we were greeted by Clown, who also just arrived.

"Well, well, well," he said with a mischievous smile. "You know, I had my suspicion when you decided to back me up, seems to me you two are more friendly with each other than what you claim, Second Lieutenant."

"C-Captain Hancock! I-it's nothing like that, we were just-" My explanation was cut short when the Captain start laughing.

"Relax Brownie, I was just messing with you. Besides, I do know how 'being friends' feels like," he said, winking at me. He turned his attention to Trigger.

"So, my young wingman, we've finally meet. I'm Roy Hancock, that annoying pilot that won't stop following you around while you're taking care of business. Call me Clown, or Mage 1, or Captain Roy, or just Roy, same thing really," he said, offering a handshake. I was surprised when he accept it. Usually he needed some prodding before he's willing to do any sort of interaction with anyone at all and whenever he didn't, well, chaos. The fact that he didn't need the former and everything is still relatively civil is nothing sort of impressive.

"Well with that out of the way, shall we enter?"

"After you sir," we entered the room and find everyone already waiting for us.

"Good everyone's here, we can begin," the Base Commander said. We take a seat on the back row, furthest from the door, while Clown took a seat beside Knocker.

"How's the base holding up sir?" Golem's number 4, Footpad, asked.

"We're still assessing the damage to the base, but we have confirmed that the aircraft carrier Albatross was sunk. Now for the perpetrators of this attack, all but one has been confirmed KIA, We've confirmed that the ceasefire agreement has indeed been broken, by Erusea," Erusea? Trigger has shot down most of them before I can get a good look at their planes and I didn't paid much attention to the one I shot down, focusing on the pilot instead and they're too far away me to see the details on their flight suit. I looked at Trigger, his scarred face unreadable. Did he saw it? The Rose emblem? Is that what he was thinking about before I disturbed him?

He continued, "We weren't the only one either, most of our bases all over the Usean continent were attacked in the same way, while the rest were attacked by drones. The damage is severe in either case."

So that's what the drones is all about. Erusea have used them against us. I'm not sure we're lucky or not having to deal with bombers instead of drones. On one hand bombers are definitely not as agile as drones which makes them easier to take down, on the other hand drones are unmanned.

"Sir, are we sure it's Erusea and not just some rogue posing as one of them?" Boggard, Golem 3 asked. While the world is officially at peace these past years, that doesn't mean there aren't any problem to deal with, there are plenty of engagement happening throughout the world, particularly in Osea and Usea continent. Usually, the troublemakers are a bunch of ne'er-do-wells looking for some hapless transport or mercenaries hired by some lunatic or chauvinistic jerk to stir up trouble or idiots that think they are the best ace that ever existed and aim to conquer the world or the worst of all, deserters. Sometimes, while rare as far as I know, they pose themselves as pilots from other countries or the country they operated in at the time, putting the country flag or their air force insignia to make themselves looked more authentic. Turns out allowing literally everyone to buy armed, fully functional fighter jets wasn't such a good idea after all, who knew? On the other hand, Trigger would only gain his ace status today without them.

"Take a look yourself," the Base commander said. He moved to the computer at the corner of the room.

The room darkened and the screen in front of us turned on to show a girl in her late teens speaking on a podium. I recognize her, she's the 'White Rose of Erusea', Princess Rosa Cossette D'Elise. She's talking about how her country sovereignty was threatened by Osea and the attacks was their way of retaliating. How did Osea threatened Erusea? Also if that's the case, then why did they attacked IUN? Sure, Osea has the largest presence in it than any country, but our job was to maintain peace not doing Osea's bidding.

I admit, long speeches like these really wasn't for me and the majority of the things she said was lost on me, probably including what was supposed to be the answer to my questions. I again looked at Trigger, looks like he has decided to go back to his 'dream workshop', looking up with his eyes closed while twirling his hair like earlier, completely ignoring the Princess's speech.

He always did that. Even when we were kids, he would always looked away or leave the area whenever the Princess was shown on TV or any image of her was in the vicinity. I used to think that he, for some reason, hate her. I once asked him about it, it was the only time he ever raised his voice. The only other reason I can think of is that he's so head over heels for her that he can't even look or hear her without being embarrassed, but those who knew him know better.

That's just impossible.

I was brought back to reality by a knock to the head. It was him, his left hand knocking at my forehead as if it was a door. I realized that I've grabbed his right arm, quite tightly if him feeling up him arm after I released it is anything to go by. I took a glance at everyone around to make sure nobody saw what happened, only to find the last two person that I want to see what had just transpired is looking straight at us. Clown is looking at us with a grin that signify all manner of bad thought, while Knocker looked at us with a bored expression, no doubt his friend has forced him to look. I feel lightheaded all of a sudden.

Knocker stared at us for a few seconds before he turned back to the screen, forcing Clown to do the same. Dammit. I took one last look at Trigger, who had gone back to his own little world, before I focused back at the screen as well, the Princess's speech is almost over.

"So Erusea thought Osea is trying to take over the continent and we're their vanguard huh? I'm guessing Osea won't let this sitting down," Clown said.

The Base Commander nodded, "The Executive Office has declared a national state of emergency. They have ordered all armed forces, including us, to mobilize and make the necessary preparation for a counterattack, that's all we know at the moment." Us? So much for being multinational peacekeepers. The Base commander pinched his nose before continuing.

"I'm sure you all know where this will lead to." Well, it was obvious.

"So, we're not going to settle things diplomatically first?" Knocker asked.

"No, all we can do now is to hope the inevitable won't start too soon," he scanned the room, "Any other questions?" When he received no response, he nodded.

"Many wars are lost by failing to recover from the opening blows. That means successfully retaliating was very important," he turned to Trigger, "You may have turned the tides of battle here. You have our thanks," we were dismissed afterward.

"Come on, I'll show around the base. Unless you want to take a look around yourself," I said. When I received no response, I motioned for him to follow me. However, we were stopped by Knocker and Clown just outside the room. The more serious of the two greeted me and turned toward Trigger.

"Second Lieutenant, Captain Jeffrey Wade," he said, extending his hand. Again, Trigger accepted it.

"I'm your flight commander from now on. I've got to admit, that some impressive flying you did back there," I feel envy building up, barely a day here and already he earned the recognition of the Commander.

No, he deserved it. I just have to do better.

"So, how's you find the place? This place's pretty neat, huh?" Clown joyfully asked he made a move to put his hand around Trigger's shoulder, only for him to brush it off. I would've laughed if it's not disrespectful. Knocker though, have no such reservation.

"Leave the kid alone Roy, he's barely here and already you gave him a reason to hate this place," he said.

"Just trying to lighten his mood, Jeff," thank god for Clown's carefree attitude. The Commander chuckled and turn back to Trigger.

"How's things Trigger? Has Brownie gave you a tour around the base yet?"

"Not yet sir, we were just about to start."

Clown chimed in, "Well then I guess we-"

"I see. Well, I just wanted to introduce myself before you two wandered off somewhere," Knocker cut him off, "Alright, I'll let you handle things here 2, I'll see you later Mage 2," he said, dragging Clown with him. They only just walked a few steps from us before Knocker turned back to us.

"One more thing Trigger, when we're up there, I only have two rules. Don't die and don't get others killed. I don't care how things turned out as long as everyone make it back home in one piece, understand?" the Commander didn't wait for him to respond, immediately walking off with Clown who gave a salute before trotting after his friend. Phew, sure glad he wasn't as strict about fraternization.

I watched them as they started bickering with each other. Those two, sometimes I wonder how they can ended up being friends, being the opposite of each other. But then again, I'm friends with Trigger, so it's not really my place to judge.

"Okay, let's go, we'll start from the harbor."

As we made our way to the harbor, one thing won't stop bugging me. War is on the horizon. Why would Erusea attacked us? What did we even do to earn their wrath? Did the royal family do it on their own volition or, this might be a wishful thinking, is there an unseen force guiding them? The royal family didn't strike me as a bunch of war-lovers, neither do they looked like people that would choose violence as a first option. The Princess certainly didn't. Although if what I think is true then she certainly could provide an easy access to the King.

But If I'm right then who are they? What did they gain from this? So many possibilities and questions, too much for me to handle. I can easily cleared things up by asking the silent pilot walking beside me, but I'm afraid that silence would end if I did and it will end badly. This could be a sensitive subject for him, as far as I know.

I looked at him, still stoic as always. I've always wondered how he did that. Does this revelation bothered him at all? Or this is exactly what he wants? I would say unlikely, but people can change. I decided to risk it and asked him.

"Hey, Trigger," I said, trying to start the conversation slowly. He looked at me.

"How are you?" He turned his gaze forward. Shit, I forgot he hated small talk. Guess I'll go straight to the point.

"So, it seems war is drawing near," he nodded after a few seconds

"You're okay with it?" No response, I knew it.

"Why do you think Erusea done it?" No response again, this is getting nowhere.

"Do you think this will be like 'you-know-what'?" He stopped, looking up and twirling his hair for a moment before walking again. So I was right, there is a possibility after all. I wanted to continue asking but I doubt I can get a better response than that, so I decided to not press the issue for now. We walked in silence from then on.

When we arrived, I told him about everything I know about the harbor. We also take a closer look at the damage done to it. With the carrier here, this area must have been one of the primary objective of the bombers. Shame what happened to Albatross, the carrier got quite a bit of history, namely being the carrier the Grim Reaper sortied from 5 years ago and also being the reason why Golem use the super hornets instead of falcons like Mage. Though I do wonder why she belonged to the air force instead of the navy branch like the rest of the carriers.

We continued our tour, walking from one area to the next, introducing him to anyone that wish to know him, provided they're only interested professionally of course. We ran into Boggard and Footpad on the way to the hangars.

"Hey guys!" Footpad greeted us.

"Hey, you two. Thought you guys would be at the mess hall at this hour."

"Yeah well, that's the plan but I saw you guys and figured we should greet our newest member first," he answered.

Boggard and Footpad. They're the same rank as us but I saw them as my seniors regardless, being older and already stationed here long before me. They're just like the squadron leaders, close with each other despite their differing personalities.

"Well since you're here, might as well introduce you guys. Trigger, these guys are Golem number 3 and 4, Boggard."

"Hey."

"And Footpad."

"Nice to meet ya, pal. Guess what Brownie said about you are true all along, huh?"

"What, you calling me a liar?"

"N-no, of course not! I always sure about what you said!" Footpad answered while holding his hands up in front of him.

"Real convincing," Boggard remarked.

"Shut up you evil spirit," Footpad answered indignantly. His wingman only chuckled in response.

"Alright, that's enough embarrassing Footpad for now. You guys were heading for the hangars?" Boggard asked.

"Yep, see you guys at the mess hall."

"We'll save a spot for you," with that they took their leave.

"Right, let's go."

When we reached the hangars, as expected he immediately made a beeline towards his jet, disappearing to the other side of it. While he has no problem with the work of the maintenance crews, he prefer to do things himself, caring for his craft included.

"That's the one called Trigger, Lieutenant?" an older man I recognize as the Crew Chief approached.

"The one and only," I answered.

"He got a problem with our work, ma'am?" he asked. While he asked politely I know that he's a bit irritated at Trigger.

"Relax Chief, he believed every pilots must personally care for their craft."

"He do know that's what we're here for right?"

"You got to ask him yourself. Don't worry, he has no interest in putting you guys out of business," I assured him. He wasn't convinced though.

"Still, it was as if he didn't trust us to do our job properly or something."

"Well, he barely trust anyone but I assure you he respected you guys. He just prefer to do things himself. Just don't bother him and he won't bother you," that's the best advice I can come up with. Thankfully, that seems to have ease him a bit.

"If you say so, ma'am. To tell you the truth I just don't want some guy criticizing our work like he's the best mechanic in the world."

"Hehe, I know the feeling Chief. Don't worry, you won't even have to worry about him talking at all."

"He doesn't have to go that far. I still need input from him after all."

"Well too bad. He's not one to talk and not even I can change that," he chuckled at that.

"Hah, guess that means we got our work cut out for us. Excuse me, ma'am."

He left me to my own device and head toward the back of the hangar where Trigger was examining the engine of his jet. From experience, I can tell that he's already got tons of ideas on how to improve his jet swirling around inside his head, too bad they will never be realized because the PKF followed Osea's rule regarding craft modification. As much as I wanted to let him continue having his fun, we're still got a few areas to go to and I wanted to finish our tour before dinner.

"Come on Trigger, that's enough brainstorming for now," I called him. We resumed our tour after he returned to my side. As we're leaving, he took a glance at the other hangars as we passed them. He stopped when he saw one of Golem's aircraft, mine to be exact. I know already what he was thinking about,

"I bet you're wondering why Golem fly those things without a WSO," I said, pointing at my rhino or as we used to call them, 'shornet'. Hmm, I wonder if he remember that.

A stare is all I got.

"Go on, ask it. I know you want to," he shrugged.

"If you ask nicely, I might tell you why," he started walking away. Well that was disappointing.

"Uuu, you're not fun anymore," I swear I saw a slight smirk on his face before it turned back to his usual blank.

We walked for a few more steps toward our next destination before I talked again. "To be honest, it was my handiwork," that got his attention.

"The Albatross for some reason belonged to the air force branch of the IUN-PKF, the branch that doesn't have a carrier-based aircraft at their disposal. So for years, the only time she ever being put to work was five years ago, until January this year where we were given our shornets," I looked at him, a slight smirk is visible on his face. So he do remember. I turned back to the path in front of us.

"But they didn't come with a WSO, nor did we get assigned one later on. So for a while, we stick with our falcons while we left them in the hangars to gather up some dust, until one day I got bored and decided to see if I still remember what you, Uncle, and BB taught me," I said. I turned back at him again.

"Guess all those times you guys used on teaching me weren't wasted after all huh?" I will never said it out loud, but I really wished he'd be proud of me for doing it. He had done so much for me, I wanted to make sure he know that I appreciated all of it and they weren't all for nothing. Ironic, considering he's younger than me. I got my wish when he pat my head.

He's the kind of person to keep things to himself, very rarely conveying his thoughts and feelings through actions, actions that most of the time are so stupidly subtle that only those who know and took the time to obverse him closely will notice. Coupled that with the fact that he's nowhere near the most expressive guy in the world and you have yourself one of the most unreadable guy you'll ever meet. On the other hand though, it's easier to know what his more noticeable gestures means.

I looked up at him, his face still as flat as ever. It's fine though, the gesture is enough to prove that he is proud of me and that's enough for now. We walked in silence again from then on, but this time I can't keep my feelings hidden. He's just made my day. I just hope I didn't looked like an idiot, smiling like this.

Soon we reached our final destination, his room.

"Finally, our last stop," I said. I saw his duffle bag is resting on the bed.

"You don't have any roommate, so you got the place all to yourself," I started rummaging through his stuff, an empty notebook, writing tools, and some identical looking clothes that he didn't bother to fold before he put them inside the bag. How very typical of him. He approached me from behind, peeking over my shoulder to see what I was looking for. Ah, here they are.

I looked at them. A dark blue baseball cap with a white infinity symbol on it and a black shooting gloves with a butterfly silhouette on both of them. BB gave these to him along with his journal when we told him about our intention to join the air force. He said they used to belong to Uncle before the old man himself gave them to him when he decided to join. I barely ever seen Trigger without them since that day. Being two of the few things he care about, they're still in good condition despite their age.

Turning around, I asked, "Where's your journal?"

He tapped one of his pocket. I motioned for him to get it out. He looked at my hand currently hovering between us.

"I want to see them," I said. It's true, though I'm not sure why. It was as if some force is urging me to check on it because of reasons known only to them. He clearly wasn't satisfied with my excuse, but decided to follow my demand anyway, putting it in my hand.

An old journal, also has the same history as the hat and the gloves. A lot of things were inside it, personal theories, plane schematics, weapon design, even information that countries would kill for. How Uncle and BB can get their hands on them, I don't know and they're told me it's best that way. I noticed it has grown thicker than the last time. I opened it and sure enough there are more content in it than the last time I saw it. One thing piqued my interest.

"What's this Monika?" I asked. From the looks of it, it looked to be some sort of smartphone, though based on the description it seems to be different. His response was to simply pointing at the journal. A gesture that I particularly loathed because that's his way of saying 'are you that much of an idiot or are you just blind?' or something along the line.

"So it's a secret project, huh?" I was even more intrigued. The last time he had one resulted in one of the most amazing thing that I've ever seen. Speaking of which…

"By the way, what's that thing that you pocketed earlier? I saw you putting something in your pocket before you get out of your jet's cockpit."

He looked at me for a moment before pulling out something from one of his pockets, something I recognize.

It was a radio that he made before we departed for Heierlark. I remembered Uncle and BB said they used to have one when they're still active that they use to hear the chatters on the other side. After hearing that, he immediately made it his mission to create one and this one was the result. He brought it along to Heierlark where he use it to hear what his opponent are saying and also to news and the like. I remember how he made everyone thought he's a psychic because he can predict all of their movement in combat and at the same time keeping up to date with the outside world despite barely interacting with anything outside his room.

"Good to see this thing still in one piece," I said before putting it and his journal back to where it was safely tucked away.

I turned around and grabbed the hat and the gloves, putting them on him.

"There we go, now this is the Trigger that I remember," I said.

We stand there for a while, his grey eyes staring straight at my brown ones. Only now I realize how much I missed him. Those eyes, that emotionless scarred face. That irresistibly kissable lips.

Wait, what?

Shaking myself out of my stupor, I quickly turned toward the door.

"I-it's almost d-dinner. You remember where the mess hall was right? See you there," I said quickly, hoping he didn't catch my stutter. Who am I kidding, of course he did.

I made my way to the mess hall on my own. What the hell was that just now? We're friends that's it. He's like a brother to me, no more than that. Yes, that's the truth, no need to think about it any further.

I decided to take a detour through the hangars, I forgot to thank the maintenance crews for taking care of our jets earlier. As soon as I arrived there however, I found them to be empty. I looked at each of them and sure enough, no one there. Oh well, guess I can do that later.

"So what do you think of our ace?"

That stopped me right in my tracks. Sounds like it comes from the side of Bossman's jet hangar. A part of me said that I shouldn't be so nosy and I should head to the mess hall, but another part of me quickly countered by saying that whoever that was mentioned an ace, which means they were talking about Trigger. Naturally, that side won. I peeked around the corner to see Captain Hancock and Captain Wade sitting there with their backs on the hangar.

"You're already know about what I think. Also, I told you it's still too early to treat him as some sort of bigshot. The kid already has enough baggage to deal with as it is, no need to add more to the pile," Captain Wade said.

"Yeah, but come on, all you said was that you think he's a good pilot. You didn't say anything about the kid himself," Captain Hancock countered.

"You just want me to admit that you are right, he really is capable."

"Well yeah, but not even you can deny it. I mean, Just today he almost single-handedly completed the mission and even shot down a confirmed ace!" So that red and white pilot really was an ace.

"What? What ace are you talking about?"

"The one flying the red and white Fishbed of course. What, you didn't look at it?"

"I was too busy trying not to die Roy. So that guy was an ace?"

"Yep, and not just any ace. He's Huang Xuan Tai!"

"The Tranquil Flame? Really?"

"It's true! I was wondering about that guy that gave us trouble so I asked that survivor we captured."

"Damn, guess he really is better than I thought."

"Ha! You said it! I win!" Clown cheered. Knocker however, wasn't amused.

"Roy, if you're turned out to be lying just so you can hear me admitting that you were right…"

"Haha, of course I did. But, I wasn't lying. He really is the Tranquil Flame, or was anyway." Clown defended.

"Seriously though, what do you think of Trigger? You doesn't look all that impressed with him," He continued. His friend can only sighing in response.

"To be honest, I'm not sure. People back in Osea said he's a bloodthirsty menace, Brownie said he's the exact opposite. The problem is, they're all biased. Them being racist and her being his childhood friend. From what I've seen though, he's a bit of both," Captain Wade answered. He then turned his head to Clown. I immediately pulled my head back, from his position he could easily spot me here.

"What about you, what do you think?" He asked back.

"Well, he's even better than what Brownie claimed. That's good enough for me."

"You have no problem with him completely disregarding you?"

"Nope. He's clearly the better pilot, if anything it would be safer to let him take the lead" Clown proudly claimed.

"Roy, you do remember about his reputation right?"

"Sure I do. But from what I've read. Almost all of the reports against him are just like you said, biased, stemming from either jealousy, racism, or just plain incompetence. I mean, like the newest one, the only crime he committed was that he followed his order to shoot down a trespasser that refused to heed to warnings before his squadron leader can do it. Had it been any other pilots, I bet the bastard would've congratulate them. Really, if he wants the kill, he should just told him."

"What makes you think he would listen?"

"Because I did exactly that earlier. Look at me now, I have more kills than you now," Clown said cheekily.

"I guess you're right."

"Of course I am. We just have to make sure he didn't go overboard and everything will turn out fine."

"I don't know, his record said it might be hard to do that. What's makes you think we can?"

"Oh, we can't. But I know someone who can." Me.

"Brownie?"

"Yep," He turned toward his friend, who is giving him a displeased look, "Don't give me that look. You're already dump your problem on her before me." Problem? What problem?

"How did you…"

"Come on man, we've known each other for what, 13 years? Of course I know." Another sigh.

"I didn't dump it on her. I just don't know how to approach him on the matter. I was hoping she, being his longtime friend, would deal with it before I have to step in. I'll still gonna have a word with him if she didn't," Knocker answered. Dammit, what problem are they talking about?

"Why are you worried anyway? From what I know, it never bothered him."

"Well, I doubt he know who he shot down back then. But if the war really started, then he has to be particularly dense not to know." Ah, I can see where this is going. Well you guys really don't need to worry about that because I'm on it.

"Didn't Brownie said he didn't care about nationality? That's why he joined OADF?"

"That's what she said. Still, better safe than sorry. I don't want him dragging the rest of us down if the worst happens," Knocker said.

"Alright, that's enough musing I think. Let's go to the mess hall, I'm hungry," he continued.

"You read my mind."

I quickly hid myself inside the hangar, waiting for them to leave. So they're worried Trigger might ended up having a crisis of conscience, huh? Can't say I disagree with them. I admit I'm not sure how he would feel if the war started. If we're to fight against any other country then sure, I can say with absolute certainty that he wouldn't care, maybe a bit miffed that he has to get involved in, as far as he concerned, something as unnecessary as war. But we're not going to fight any other country, we'll be fighting against Erusea.

His homeland.

If I were told to fight against Osea, I certainly would be upset at least. They have their flaws, but Osea is still my home country, where I was born, where I grew up, where my home was. To participate in the harming of my own homeland for the sake of people that hate me, I don't even want to think about it. So I didn't. Instead I checked to see if Captain Wade and Captain Hancock were already left and head toward the mess.

When I arrived, I saw Footpad waving at me.

"Where's Trigger?" Boggard asked.

"He's on his way, I think. Why?"

"No reason."

I looked at the food. It's getting worse by the day. When I first arrived here, the food was better than even back home. But now with supplies running low, we have to make do. Can't complain, it's still far better than what I can cooked up and still looks good too.

"Hey Brownie," Footpad calling for my attention.

"What?"

"Is it true about Trigger…" I already know about what he was going to ask

"Yes," I cut him off. "You got a problem with that?"

"N-no. It's just that, he can't be okay with all of this mess we found ourselves in, you know?"

"Maybe, I tried to ask him earlier but he wasn't exactly the kind of guy that would spilled his guts to anyone." I won't said it out loud, but I'm glad they actually worried about Trigger despite barely knew him. I thought when he's here, I have to hound him like in Heierlark. It's nice to know that people like our squadron leader and these two still exist.

A few minutes later, Trigger finally showed up. About time. I waved at him but before he do anything, he caught sight of the TV. It was showing a news about today's attacks. Since it was OBC, it of course heavily favor Osea. I might be an Osean myself, but I wouldn't immediately say it was Erusea's fault. He didn't look all that bothered with the accusation.

After he grabbed some food, he sat beside me. Boggard and Footpad looked at me and then subtly pointing at him. I shake my head, I will talk to him but I didn't say I'll do it right now when they're watching. Suddenly, we hear an announcement telling Mage and Golem to report for a briefing.

"Man, what now?" Footpad complained. Boggard sighed.

"I was hoping it didn't come to this," he said.

"Hmm? What do you mean?" I asked him.

"Empty your schedules guys, because the worst is about to happen," was his only reply as he got up and leave.

I looked at Trigger, he's still happily eating all of his problems away. Well, not really but he likes to eat so I assumed he's happy right now.

"Do you think Boggard's right?" He shrugged. Guess we'll know later.

We left for the briefing room after he's done torturing by eating very slowly. When we arrived we find that once again everyone is waiting for us. The Base Commander looked rather angry, but he didn't seem to be angry at us. We took a seat nearest to the screen. For a few minutes, we sat there in silence. The Base Commander just stood there, looking at nothing in particular. Did something happened?

"We've received orders from HQ," he finally said.

"At 1000 hours tomorrow we will launch an attack on Erusea's capital, Farbanti." Well that escalated quickly.

"We? Attacking Farbanti?" Knocker asked.

"That is correct."

"But sir, we're literally on the other side of the continent. Aren't there any closer base that can launch the attack?" I chirped in. Sure we've been told to be ready but won't it be better if the attacking force are coming from somewhere closer? Also I'm not naïve enough to not know what would happen if we're to surprise attack a populated area like Farbanti, so I was hoping the Base Commander would agree and do something to prevent us from taking part.

"The IUN-PKF are crippled. Only a few of us that are still in battle-ready condition and we're among the unfortunates." Dammit.

"The top brass wanted to prevent the war before it can actually started huh?" Clown remarked.

"Quite right. The plan is to occupy the capital thus forcing Erusea to surrender to our demands." By that, he means to force Erusea to give up everything to Osea and IUN I bet. Ever since the restoration 11 years ago, the royal family has led the defeated country into a strong and prosperous one. Still nowhere near the level of Osea or Yuktobania, but enough to both be a threat and a juicy target that other countries would started a war for. Ugh, politics.

"Has any thought been given to the possibility of collateral damage?" Boggard asked.

"Yes. Don't worry about it." What?

"That's it? Just 'don't worry about it'?" I asked. I know the current Osean government are less pacifist from the last one but come on, it's innocent lives we're talking about.

"Command is confident that we can avoid civilian casualties."

"Sure, but did they also put into account the possibility that some people might not be so forgiving to stay professional?" Knocker asked, irritation clear in his voice.

"Then be glad that you all have some time before the scheduled attack, because I certainly did," was the Base Commander answer.

"Any other concerns?" When he received no response, he dismissed us.

For a few seconds none of us made to leave, except for one. As soon as the Base Commander dismissed us, Trigger got up and head for the exit like anyone would on most days, looking less troubled than he should have been. In fact, he didn't look troubled at all. I know he's somewhat apathetic but this is a whole new level even for him.

I was too stunned by his attitude to do anything so I just sit there, watching him as he leave the room. Several seconds later, the rest has finally decided to follow his example, I noticed that some of them are looking at me as they leave. I was broken out of my stupor by the Base Commander.

"You should give him some time. He might simply too confused to think clearly right now."

"Sir?" I asked him.

"I know you're planning to confront him about this. But in my experience, the most uncaring on the outside might actually be the complete opposite on the inside. Let him sort things out himself first."

"Y-yes, but it isn't exactly m-my duty to do so. I-I mean, we're just friends." He chuckled.

"I was young too Second Lieutenant and I'm married. You don't need to keep it hidden from me as long as it didn't hamper your performance in missions. People like him need an anchor that can keep them from going off the wrong path." With that he left me alone in the briefing room.

I sat there on my own, pondering about what the Base Commander said. In all the years I knew Trigger, the only time I ever see him dropped his façade was that day 7 years ago.

I'll never forget how lost he looked back then.

But we've been struck with more tragedies ever since then and never once did he ever gets bothered by them. He always stoically take it all in a stride. Is this mess really affected him like that time?

No point in guessing, I just going to ask him. Later. I still need to thank the maintenance crews. And maybe a shower after that.

Ah, finally back to my room. Like Trigger, I have the place all to myself. One good thing that come with getting stationed in undermanned base. I lie on the bed. I don't care what those movies claimed, this bed is as good as the ones back home. If only I can get an extra pillow though...

I wonder what Trigger is doing now. Knowing him he's probably busy working his brain off. That is, if the Base Commander was wrong. I looked at the clock, 10 pm? That can't be right. I didn't took that long in the shower. Eh, doesn't matter, time to have that talk.

As I made my way to the door I remember something that I've been meaning to give him. Opening the mini fridge in my room, I grabbed it. It's a pouch full of chocolate and any other sweet stuff that I can scrounge up. One other thing that I barely ever seen him without is some sweets in his mouth, this one even dates back before the hat and the gloves. Now that I think about it, he's probably already work himself to sleep by now. It's fine though, his sweet tooth is so bad just being near anything remotely sweet is enough to wake him up. Hmm, I can also use this to force him to talk.

I made my way to his where his room was, carefully. There aren't any curfew implemented on the base, but I don't need anyone catching me at the boys' dormitory and spreading rumors about it. Making sure no one is around, I initially wanted to just open it since I bet he didn't locked it, but remembering the last time I did that when he's inside, I decided to knock first.

"Trigger, you up?" I hear a sigh coming from the other side. So he's still awake or got woken up, he's quite the light sleeper after all. I waited for a few seconds for him to open the door, but when I realized he had no intention to do such thing, I knock again.

"I know you're awake in there. We need to talk," I waited again for several seconds. This time I got rewarded by an even louder sigh. I decided to respond by knocking even louder, but still careful not to alert anyone else to my presence. This is getting annoying.

"I can hear you sighing at me. If you want to make people think you're asleep then don't sigh even louder the second time, you idiot," I said, making sure he can hear my irritation. I knock again. I knew being courteous was a mistake.

"I'll keep knocking until you open the damn door," I know it's futile, he can easily out-patience me. But I'll do it anyway, being caught by others be damned.

"Come on, I was just being courteous here," he finally opened the door, but not before sighing one last time. Good thing too, I was just a hair away from kicking his door down.

"Can we talk?" He immediately made to close the door.

"I brought some sweets," I said, showing the pouch to him. He looked at it for a moment before relenting and letting me in.

"Well that wasn't so hard now was it?" I said as I walked past him. His gaze never leaving the pouch.

I lay down on his bed, while he took a seat on the floor right beside the bed despite there is a sofa ready to be seated on just a foot away, still eyeballing the sweets.

"We're attacking Farbanti tomorrow," I said. I looked at him, he's no longer looking at the goodies and instead looking straight at me.

"You're okay with it?" He shrugged. Goddamn him and his stoicism.

"Trigger, this is serious. We'll be striking the heart of Erusea. A lot of people will get hurt tomorrow, even die. Don't you feel anything for your fellow Erusean?" No response.

"Answer me dammit!" His silence is starting to get under my skin. He focused his gaze on me and I can feel that irritation suddenly replaced by a chill down my spine. I remembered how terrified I was the first time I locked eyes with him. It's not that his gaze was terribly sharp, or whatever cliché eye-related things stories tend to use to describe their hero. It's just seems… off somehow. He looked at me but at the same time he doesn't seems to, I feel like he was staring right into my soul but at the same time through it, if either of those things was possible or not at all even. His grey eyes wasn't helping either. I was saved from further dread however when he lowered his hat to hide his gaze.

"It doesn't matter," he finally spoke, the first time I hear him speak today and in years. It sounded even deeper than it used to.

"It doesn't matter? But why? You're literally going to hurt or kill your fellow countrymen for the sake of people that hate you!"

"So?"

"So, that can't be right! If I were told to harm an Osean for the sake of people like them, no way I would do it"

"I'm not you."

"Still, it was as if you're burning down your own home just because someone who been doing nothing but throwing rocks at you told you to. It's crazy."

"What is home?"

That question caught me off guard.

"Home?" He nodded.

'What is home?' Such a simple question with a must be similarly simple answer. Yet I can't answer it. What is home? What makes one a home? What defines it?

"Home," I repeated, he nodded again.

"Answer, and you will understand," he said.

He got up and head toward the door while I just laid myself there stumped by his question. What is home? He opened the door.

"Think, and you will find the answer."

I looked at him, still a bit surprised by his sudden question.

"Can't you just tell me?" he shook his head.

"Everyone have their own answers. Find one yourself." I sighed.

"Fine. Here," I said handing him the goodies.

"They're surprisingly hard to come by around here, so try not to get crazy when you eat them, alright?" he nodded.

"Oh yeah before I forget, T or A?"

"A"

"Then good night, Axel."

"Good night, Victoria," With that I left his room and head back to mine, his question is still swirling wildly inside my head.

What is home? He said I'll understand why he didn't care if only I can answer it. But like everything else, it was easier said than done. Agh, forget it, I'll think about it in the morning. For now I should rest myself up. Tomorrow, we'll launch an attack on Farbanti, capital city of Erusea. A city that was filled to the brim with innocent civilians. This attack will either prevent the war or jumpstarting it. Either way, innocents will get hurt.

How did we come to this?