Darling in the FranXX: Insurrection

Chapter 4- Partners

Hello everyone, I'm back! Sorry for the extended delay on this chapter but a certain developer (Treyarch) happened to release a new game recently and it has eaten a large amount of my time. Mix in some delay due to my editor's busy schedule and we end up here. Never fear though, this chapter contains some interesting new details for you to enjoy. Until next time!

The two days back in Mistilteinn following your vacation activities were quiet. Nana had come to collect you the morning after your "training" and had complimented your ability to fend for yourselves. While everyone was glad to prove that they were capable, there was also plenty of begging that you not be forced to make your own meals again. Despite that, though, you all had enjoyed your time at the beach and were disappointed to take your leave.

Today, however, would not be as carefree for you and Ichigo. Now that you had been at Plantation 13 for five days, with the resupply transport due soon, it was time for you and Ichigo to attempt the connection testing once more. As with your previous attempt, the both of you were required to wake up early in the morning to prepare for your trial. Unlike your previous test, this one was truly your final chance.

When you awaken on the morning of the fifth day, it is still dark. From your view of the sky above the dome of Mistilteinn, dark clouds roll through the air and you can hear the distant rumble of thunder. As you change out of your sleepwear, the soft pitter-pat of raindrops register in your ears. Today is likely to be quite dreary.

This unfortunate weather does little for your mood. You can't help but remember four days ago when you and Ichigo had failed miserably during your first connection test. This time will be different. It has to be, you say to yourself. There is another clap of thunder, seeming to punctuate your statement. "Thanks for the reassurance," you grumble to the inanimate racket.

Making your way down the central staircase into the atrium of the house, you find Ichigo waiting for you. "Good morning," she yawns sleepily, somehow managing to have gotten dressed in spite of her fatigue. "Good morning, Ichigo," you reply, stopping beside her. She plays around with her feet, holding both of her hands behind her back. "I thought we could go together," Ichigo remarks, answering the unasked question of why she is waiting. "You don't quite know your way around yet anyway, so..." she awkwardly trails off.

"May I?" you ask, extending your hand. Ichigo blushes slightly and looks away momentarily. Her trembling hand slowly move from behind her and clutches your own, causing you to jump. "The umbrella!" you yelp in surprise, color rising to your cheeks. "I meant, uh, may I have the umbrella? You're not tall enough to cover the both of us with it."

"Right, sorry!" Ichigo shouts, letting go of your hand and turning away. Despite her back being turned, you can see her face has turned a bright crimson. She extends the arm holding the umbrella without turning to face you. You take it from her and walk to the door.

"Ichigo, you coming?" you ask while opening it. She quickly and quietly rushes to your side as you pop open the umbrella. As you look outside, you notice that the previously soft rain has degraded into a rather steady downpour. "Stay close if you don't want to get drenched," you say, before stepping out of the safety the building provides and into the dark and rainy morning.

You and Ichigo walk silently for the first leg of your journey, aside from the gentle bouncing of the rain on the top of the umbrella. You're each too absorbed in your own thoughts to notice, though. Today has gone well enough so far, you tell yourself. If things continue like this, we should have no problems. "It's kind of beautiful, don't you think?" Ichigo asks, interrupting your train of thought.