GATE: Task Force Guillotine

Chapter 17: The Other Side

[WARNING]

THIS IS A TRIAL CHAPTER

This is my first attempt at transitioning to a more novel-like format. If this new structure is well-received, I will retroactively update the earlier chapters to match it. However, if it's not well-received, I may revert to my original approach.

The same thing applies to my GFL fanfic, now titled  "Paths Yet Found" 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Guest Room, Joint JSDF-USMC Headquarters

April 2, 2028, 09:02 (2nd day of the Blood Moon 638)

Pina sat with her hands folded neatly on her lap, trying to maintain an air of dignity despite the growing anxiety in her chest. The chair she occupied was plush and firm, offering comfort without making her feel as if she'd sink into it. The smooth armrests gleamed faintly, polished to perfection, and the table before her reflected a similar level of craftsmanship. It exuded an understated elegance—functional and precise.

Bozes shifted slightly in her seat, adjusting the fabric of her attire. Her eyes wandered around the room, taking in the sterile, orderly design. There were no tapestries or grand decorations, just clean lines and subtle lighting. Even the air, cool and carefully regulated, felt deliberate—just enough to keep them alert but not uncomfortable. She shifted again, smoothing out a wrinkle in her garment, and glanced at Pina.

"This place feels strange," Bozes whispered, leaning slightly toward her princess. "It's not like a castle, but... everything here seems so exact. Even the air feels controlled."

Pina gave a small nod, her gaze lingering on the table's smooth, polished surface. "Yes. They have their way of doing things—precise, and efficient."

The silence in the room was unsettling. The hum of the air vents amplified the stillness, and the ticking of the clock sounded louder than it should have. Pina drummed her fingers lightly on the armrest, trying to keep her composure. Her thoughts swirled as she wondered what General Hazama would say—and, more importantly, what his expectations of her would be.

Bozes tapped her hand against the edge of her chair, the sound of her nail against wood sharp and deliberate. "Do you think they'll demand anything from us? Or... punish us for what happened?"

Pina exhaled slowly, willing her voice to remain steady. "I don't know. I just hope..." Her voice faltered, the weight of uncertainty dragging her words into silence.

Before she could finish, the door hissed open. Both women immediately straightened, assuming postures befitting their status. A soldier stepped inside, wearing a neatly pressed uniform that reflected the same precision as everything else in the room. His expression was polite but unreadable.

"General Hazama and Colonel Clark will see you shortly," the soldier announced, his tone measured. "Please, make yourselves comfortable."

Pina offered him a polite nod, though her heart was pounding. Bozes mirrored her, keeping her composure intact, though both women shared a silent look of uncertainty.

The soldier gave a final nod and exited, leaving the room again in silence.

The quiet became heavier as the door clicked shut, pressing down on them like a weight. Pina gripped the armrests of her chair a little tighter, her mind swimming with questions. Was this an opportunity to negotiate peace... or the first step toward war?