GATE: Task Force Guillotine

Chapter 14: The Trip Back

Motherland, Bless your children who are about to die

Girls frontline Lingering grudges has reached 200 reads! thanks everyone!

Also thanks folks for reading this story, never expected people to enjoy what I make!

Also sorry for the delays my research papers are finished so I can get back to writing this stuff huzzah

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Open Plains, Special Region

April 1, 2028, 05:52 (1st day of the Blood Moon 638)

The convoy of military vehicles kicked up dust as they rumbled across the open plains, the early morning sun casting long shadows over the landscape. In one of the lead vehicles, Itami sat quietly beside Kurata who was behind the wheel. The silence was heavy, filled only by the hum of the engine and the occasional crackle of the radio.

Beside him, Kurata was focused on the road, hands gripping the wheel, his expression calm. Itami, however, let his attention drift to the back of the vehicle. He couldn't help but smile slightly at the sight before him.

In the rear seats, Lelei, Rory, and Tuka were fast asleep. Lelei, her head resting lightly against the window, looked as serene as ever, her magical staff lying across her lap. Rory, the ever-vibrant demigoddess, had somehow curled up comfortably in her seat, her usual mischievous energy completely subdued in her slumber. Tuka, with her long, pointed ears visible, rested with her head tilted to the side, looking peaceful in the soft morning light.

Itami couldn't help but feel a sense of calm wash over him at the sight. Despite the chaos and dangers they had faced, this moment of peace felt rare and precious. He turned back around in his seat, exhaling softly.

Kurata: They're out like a light, huh?

Itami nodded, his voice low so as not to disturb the others.

Itami: Yeah. I guess even demigods need to sleep.

Itami leaned forward slightly, reaching for the radio as the peaceful quiet inside the vehicle surrounded him. He pressed the button, his voice low and calm.

Itami: Andrew, how's the little one doing?

There was a brief pause before the radio crackled with Andrew's response. Her tone was soft, likely trying to keep her voice down.

Andrew: Red's asleep. Kurokawa's got her on her lap after singing her a lullaby. It worked like a charm.

Itami smiled to himself. Despite the harshness of the world and the constant danger they faced, moments like this—where a child could find comfort in something as simple as a lullaby—made everything feel a little more bearable.

Itami: Glad to hear it. Let her rest. We've still got a ways to go.

Andrew: Don't worry. I'll keep an eye on her.

Itami set the radio back down and glanced at Kurata, who raised an eyebrow but didn't say anything. They both knew that despite their mission and the stakes, they were also responsible for the people who had come under their protection—including the youngest among them.

Kurata: Red has a soft spot for Kurokawa, huh?

Itami chuckled, shaking his head. 

Itami: Seems like it. Kurokawa's got that way about her—calming, I guess.