CHAPTER 24: "DECISIONS OVER DECISIONS"
Tokyo
24 Hours After the Interrogation
In the aftermath of the brutal interrogation, I lay on the hospital bed, recovering slowly. My fingers throbbed with pain—a lingering reminder of the ordeal I had endured. Outside, the political landscape was in turmoil. The Gun-Kai Domei To (ぐんーかいどめいと) accepted the use of torture and attempted to conceal it, while the Tensei-To openly opposed this and sought to return me to Korea.
Frustration boiled within me, breaking the surface with a whispered curse, "くそ...". My gaze drifted to the ceiling as I imagined a life free from the scrutiny and manipulation. Suddenly, an unseen force whisked me away to a mysterious dimension. A whisper from behind—gentle, yet ominous—warned, "Don't move too much, or you risk dropping into eternal death. Stay still."
Despite the strange surroundings, embarrassment prickled through me as I realized I was still clad in hospital pajamas. Forcing the discomfort aside, I complied, allowing my eyes to close as the world shifted around me once more. I was placed in a dim room filled with a cacophony of scents so strong they stung my senses.
As my vision adjusted, I found myself facing a man seated at a table, sipping Gyokuro Ocha with deliberate grace. He spoke with calm authority, "How is your condition?"
Bewildered, I scanned the room, but his reassurance coaxed me back, "Don't worry. Please sit. I'd like to discuss something."
I tentatively accepted his offer of tea, my curiosity piqued by the soldiers stationed at the door, guarding documents marked with insignias foreign to me. After taking a sip, the man introduced himself. "My name is Takumi Miyabushi, the Director of the HFC—Hunter Foundations Cooperation. I see potential in you as a future elite soldier of our organization."
My surprise was palpable, and I hastily declined the unexpected offer. "Thank you, but I must refuse. My loyalty lies with the Chaos Insurgency."
The calm veneer of Miyabushi remained as nearby soldiers shifted, hands hovering near their Tachi. "Are you certain? A rejection leaves me no choice but to return you to the An'ei Kenkyu Kyoku （あんえいけんきゅきょく）."
Panic surged through me at the mention of them. "W-wait, anything but that!" The heavy reality of the situation settled around me—a precarious balance between betrayal and survival. "I'll reconsider your offer."
Miyabushi leaned forward, his gaze steady but piercing. "Consider it carefully. You have 24 hours to decide."
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**Meanwhile at Sector Tango**
A TMF scout crouched amidst rocky crevices, sniper rifle poised and ready. His telescope scanned the nearby fort, witnessing a grim tableau of horror—locals, hung lifeless, their bodies a grotesque display. Despite the urge to retch, he remained still, knowing discovery was a risk he couldn't afford.
Every sweep of the scope confirmed the ongoing tragedy—systematic executions by the GOC, with staggering numbers mounting by the day. The scout, undeterred, retrieved a device from his backpack, tuning into distant conversations.
"Commander had no choice. These people are worthless—slaves that won't serve any purpose," uttered one soldier.
Another chimed in, "Agreed. They reproduce like rabbits. Better as target practice than anything."
A desperate civilian's fall interrupted their discussion, prompting an outburst. "YOU LITTLE SHIT! That missed my headshot streak!"
The plea for food fell on deaf ears. "I DON'T CARE! You ruined my score!"
With sickening brutality, the soldier crushed the civilian's skull underfoot, toasting the act amidst cheers. The scout could only silently observe, the horror echoing in his mind—an ugliness beyond measure.
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A Few Hours Later
One Hour Before My Decision
With time running out, I weighed my options. Joining the HFC presented a unique opportunity—to infiltrate the GOC and solidify trust within HFC ranks. The mutual benefits were undeniable.
When Takumi Miyabushi returned to hear my decision, I met his gaze with resolve. "I will join the HFC."
His nod was approving, his handshake firm. "Welcome to the HFC."
To be continued