03:- CGS

Ichiro had faced countless challenges and uncertainties in his life, but today marked a turning point like no other. He, Mikazuki, and Orga had joined Chryse Guard Security (CGS) three years ago, seeking refuge and a chance at a better future on the Martian frontier. But today, they were about to undergo a life-altering procedure that would define their place in CGS and the harsh world they inhabited.

The Alaya-Vignana System surgery was their ticket to becoming Mobile Worker pilots, a coveted position within CGS. It involved the implantation of nanochips into their spines, which would grow and adapt with them as they matured. The procedure was not for the faint of heart, and its excruciating pain was notorious throughout CGS. What made it even more daunting was the absence of anesthesia. There would be no relief from the searing agony that would accompany the surgery.

As Ichiro, Mikazuki, and Orga made their way toward the surgery room, their footsteps seemed heavier than usual. They had witnessed the failed surgeries of other children, those whose dreams had been shattered, leaving them with broken bodies and uncertain fates. These unfortunate souls were now relegated to the sidelines, unable to move, some partially paralyzed with blood oozing from their wounds.

Ichiro's heart ached as he saw the suffering etched into the faces of these children. Some could only move one side of their body, while others were entirely immobilized. Their eyes held a mixture of pain, despair, and unspoken questions about their futures. It was a miserable sight, one that made Ichiro want to avert his gaze, to pretend he hadn't seen it.

Orga, ever the leader and protector, supported Ichiro through the emotional turmoil. His grip on Ichiro's shoulder was a silent reassurance, a reminder that they were in this together. But Mikazuki remained impassive, his emotions shielded as always. His focus was unwavering, directed solely at his family—Ichiro and Orga.

As they approached the surgical room, an adult figure awaited them, their expression grave and unyielding. Orga was the first to step forward, his determination shining through despite his unsteady steps. The adult led him into the surgical area without a word, leaving Ichiro and Mikazuki in the waiting area.

The minutes that followed were agonizingly slow. Ichiro's gaze remained fixed on the closed door, the source of Orga's impending suffering. Mikazuki's presence beside him was a silent source of strength, even if his emotions remained hidden beneath his stoic exterior.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the door opened, and Orga emerged, his face pallid and drenched in sweat. The grimace on his face told of the torment he had endured, but there was a fire in his eyes, a determination that had not wavered.

"I'm okay, guys," Orga said, his voice trembling but filled with the same unwavering resolve that had carried them this far. "It was hell in there, but I made it. Now it's your turn."

Ichiro and Mikazuki exchanged a glance, their shared apprehension palpable. They were grateful for Orga's safety, but the knowledge that their own surgeries awaited them weighed heavily on their minds.

As Ichiro prepared to enter the surgical room, his determination burned brighter than ever. He wanted to be strong, not just for himself, but for his family, for Mikazuki and Orga. He had heard that having more nanochips implanted increased an individual's awareness, and he was willing to endure the pain to gain an advantage.

Following the adult, Ichiro was presented with a disconcerting scene. Three doctors in light blue robes, surgical tools scattered on the floor, and the faint scent of blood from those who had come before him. They gestured for him to lie face down on a bed, restraining him with chains and tapes.

As Ichiro lay there, his face pressed into the bed, he steeled himself for the ordeal that lay ahead. The surgery began, and the burning sensation on his back was excruciating. The nanochips were implanted into his spine, and every moment felt like an eternity of suffering.

After what felt like an agonizing half-hour, the surgery was finally complete. Ichiro's body was drenched in sweat, his muscles tense with pain, but he was determined to push through. He knew he couldn't stop at just one nanochip; he needed the strength to protect his family.

With a voice that quivered from both pain and unwavering resolve, Ichiro spoke, "I want another one."

The doctors nodded, and the agonizing surgery began once more. It was a journey through hell, a testament to his unwavering commitment in the face of unbearable pain and an uncertain future.

After another grueling hour, the second surgery was completed. Ichiro felt utterly drained, devoid of energy, and barely able to move. With the help of the man outside the room, he managed to stumble out and be reunited with Mika and Orga.

Their ordeal was far from over, as the final member of their group, Mikazuki, awaited his turn. The weight of their sacrifices and their determination to become stronger for the sake of their family bound them together in this harrowing journey....

.

.

.

.

.

patreon.com/RoyanTheGreat