The room was dimly lit, with a sterile atmosphere that mirrored a surgical suite. It was evening, and Ichiro had prepared everything meticulously. Bladwin lay on a medical bed, slightly apprehensive but trusting Ichiro with his life. The prosthetic arm, a symbol of hope and recovery, lay nearby, ready to be attached.
Ichiro donned a surgical mask, his expression focused and determined. He couldn't help but respond to Bladwin's joking comment about being a doctor. "I'm not a doctor, but I've done my fair share of patching up machines and people," Ichiro replied, his voice muffled by the mask.
As Bladwin prepared himself for the procedure, Ichiro continued with a calm yet firm demeanor. "I don't have anesthesia, Bladwin, so you'll have to endure some pain. But I promise to make it as quick and precise as possible. Trust me," Ichiro said, his eyes conveying his sincerity.
Bladwin nodded, a mix of anxiety and resolve in his eyes. He knew this was necessary, and Ichiro was the only one he would entrust with such a task. The bond between soldiers ran deep, and they shared a level of trust that went beyond words.
With steady hands, Ichiro began the intricate procedure of attaching the nerves of Bladwin's upper arm to the prosthetic limb. Bladwin's initial sensation was a rush of coldness, followed by a searing, burning pain that threatened to engulf his senses. The pain was intense, and despite his natural instinct to scream, he clamped his teeth shut and controlled his body, refusing to give in to the agony.
Time seemed to blur as the surgery continued, Ichiro's skilled hands meticulously connecting nerves and circuits. Thirty minutes felt like an eternity as Bladwin endured the ordeal, but he remained as still as a statue, his trust in Ichiro unwavering.
Finally, the procedure was complete. Ichiro removed his mask, revealing a look of relief and satisfaction. He couldn't help but admire Bladwin's resilience. "It's done, Bladwin," he said, his voice carrying a mix of exhaustion and triumph.
Bladwin's breathing was heavy as he slowly released the grip on his teeth and let out a long exhale. "Thank you, Ichiro," he managed to say, his voice slightly shaky from the ordeal. "I owe you one."
Ichiro smiled, genuinely glad that the surgery had gone smoothly. "No need to thank me. We're family, after all," he replied, emphasizing the deep bond they shared as members of Tekkadan.
Bladwin flexed his new prosthetic arm, marveling at how it moved and felt remarkably like his previous flesh and blood one. Ichiro had done an exceptional job with the prosthetic, and Bladwin was grateful beyond words.
When Ichiro mentioned the defensive feature he had included, Bladwin's curiosity piqued. He nodded and followed Ichiro's instructions, adding more strength to his fingers. Almost immediately, his fingers transformed, their tips becoming sharp like blades. Bladwin couldn't help but grin at the unexpected capability.
Ichiro encouraged him to clench his hand into a fist and then move it downward while exerting additional strength at his wrist. As Bladwin complied, a sharp blade, about 50 centimeters in length, extended from the upper part of his wrist. The weapon was concealed until needed, a surprise for any potential adversaries.
Bladwin marveled at the ingenuity of the design. "Ichiro, this is incredible," he said, his voice filled with admiration. "You've outdone yourself with this arm. It's not just a tool; it's a weapon as well."
Ichiro nodded in satisfaction, pleased that his work had met Bladwin's expectations. "I wanted to make sure you were well-equipped for whatever challenges lie ahead," he explained. "Now, you have both strength and a hidden edge."
Bladwin flexed his prosthetic arm once more, testing the blade's retractable mechanism. "You've given me a chance to fight alongside," he said, his gratitude evident. "I won't forget this, Ichiro."
Ichiro smiled, the bond between them stronger than ever. "We're Tekkadan, Bladwin. We watch each other's backs, no matter what."
"So, Bladwin," Ichiro began, "how many days do we have left until we reach Sasai?"
Bladwin responded, "About four days."
Ichiro nodded thoughtfully, his focus still on his work but his mind contemplating the upcoming events. "Four days," he mused.
.
.
The massive planetary cruiser, Saisei, loomed before Tekkadan as they were guided by the Turbines to the heart of Teiwaz. It was an awe-inspiring sight, a testament to the vast reach and influence of the organization. Naze had promised to introduce them to McMurdo Barriston, the leader of Teiwaz, in the hopes of making Tekkadan a full-fledged member of this powerful conglomerate.
As they stepped onto Saisei's grand deck, Tekkadan members couldn't help but feel the weight of the occasion. They had come a long way, from their humble origins as child soldiers to this moment, where they were on the cusp of a new beginning.
Naze led them through the intricately decorated corridors of the cruiser until they reached the heart of Teiwaz: the meeting chamber. The room was grand, adorned with intricate decorations and symbols of power. At the center of it all sat McMurdo Barriston, a man of immense influence within the world of the Outer Sphere.
Naze introduced Orga and Tekkadan to Barriston, and the atmosphere grew tense as they awaited his response. It was a crucial moment, one that could change the course of their destiny.
After a lengthy discussion, McMurdo Barriston agreed to hold a special ceremony. It was a Sakazuki blood oath, a tradition within Teiwaz that signified a deep commitment and alliance. Barriston was willing to make Tekkadan full-fledged members of Teiwaz, provided they swore this solemn oath.
Orga, representing Tekkadan, stepped forward with a determined expression. This was the culmination of all their efforts, the moment where they would solidify their place in the world. The ceremony was a symbol of trust and unity, a pact that bound Tekkadan to Teiwaz.
.
.
In the midst of the preparations and discussions surrounding Tekkadan's alliance with Teiwaz, there were moments of interaction and bonding between the members of Tekkadan and the Turbines. These moments allowed them to grow closer and understand each other better.
One such interaction took place between Akihiro and Lafter. Akihiro, known for his relentless determination, was pushing himself hard during their training sessions. This relentlessness often aggravated Lafter, who was not used to such intensity. As they sparred in their mobile suit simulations, she couldn't help but comment, "Akihiro, you're like a machine. Can't you take it easy for once?"
Akihiro, determined as ever, replied, "I have to get stronger. For myself and for Tekkadan. There's no room for slacking off."
Their training sessions continued, and Lafter found herself admiring Akihiro's dedication, even if it was a bit overwhelming at times. She began to understand the kind of person he was and respected his commitment to his comrades.
Meanwhile, Atra had found herself in the company of Azee and Amida, two of the Turbines' female members. They were in the ship's kitchen, preparing a meal together. Atra was a bit nervous, as she wasn't accustomed to cooking for a large group of people.
Azee, with a warm smile, reassured her, "Don't worry, Atra. We'll help you out. Cooking is a great way to bond with others."
As they chopped vegetables and stirred pots, Amida offered Atra some advice about relationships. She could sense Atra's feelings for Mikazuki and wanted to offer guidance.
Amida leaned in and said, "You know, Atra, men can be complicated sometimes. But you've got to be patient and understanding. They need someone who can support them through thick and thin."
Atra nodded, taking in Amida's words. She respected Amida's experience and wisdom when it came to matters of the heart.
Amida continued, "You're a sweet girl, Atra. With time, you'll grow into a great wife, I'm sure of it."
Atra blushed at the compliment but appreciated the encouragement. She was grateful for the opportunity to bond with the Turbines' members and learn from their experiences.
These interactions, whether through training or cooking, allowed Tekkadan and the Turbines to understand each other better and strengthen the bonds that would be crucial in the challenges that lay ahead.
(A:N Bladwin's look and Arm photo in comments.)