Warm greetings my fellow readers.

This is my first fanfic ever. I've done a lot of writing over the years but have never published anything.

Like most of you, I didn't want it to end at episode 26 and decided to write my own adaptation of what's to become. I apologize now if the characters likeness is not quite what you expected, writing a story of well established characters is a bit of a challenge for me, so please have patience and offer me positive insight for future chapters. If you would like future chapters, reviews would be awesome, and to let me know that this is something you're enjoying. So, without further ado, I bring you the first chapter of Shiromukuro. Enjoy!

September 2021

Less than twenty-four hours ago, goodbyes were said. Tears had been shed after she was locked safely in her new boarding room. Sure, she was excited to finally set out to find Kennosuke, but she was leaving everything she knew behind, and most everyone. That was especially hard.

Yukina had finished unpacking and was laying haphazardly on the bed, exhausted. Eyes closed and right arm covering her eyes, she thought of nothing else except of Kennosuke. Her left hand clutched the small vile of Kennosukes' blood that Dr. Hausen had given her. The dark red liquid a symbol of hope. It meant he was still alive.

A ringing sound could be heard in her 200 square foot cabin room, a generous size considering how many rooms were aboard the 'Kurobe Survey Space Shuttle One' spaceship. Giving a short sigh, she searched for the ringing sound. Across the small room and near the door was a lit up panel. A communication device. Upon closer inspection she saw Sophie Noel's face on the screen. "Incoming call from Sophie Noel" the device called out.

Below the screen were a few buttons. They were color coated Green, Red and Blue. Assuming the green was for accepting the call, Yukina pressed it hesitantly.

"Yukina, if you're finished unpacking, we are expected at the bridge's meeting room. Captain wants to meet us and to introduce ourselves to the staff." Her facial expression was stoic and her request showed no room to argue. As much as she wanted a few moments to finally control her thoughts, leaving Earth and setting out closer to their destination was more important at the moment.

"You wouldn't happen to have a map, would you?" Yukina asked boldly, giving her room a quick glance to see if she missed something as important as the ships layout.

"See you in ten." Sophie's face disappeared from the panel and Yukina stared back at her dark reflection, shocked.

"You'd think after five years you'd show a little common decency..." she muttered under her breath. Sophie hadn't changed at all, even though their bond grew due to their circumstances. After all, Mika Ogino would always be her best friend, but these last five years pushed them down different paths. Sophie and Yukina just happened to be heading down the same one.

It took a few minutes but she located the map plastered on the wall of her room. Berating herself for being so unaware, she peered closely at the map. A small list of destinations with a picture was most helpful. The flight deck was at the very top, labeled 1. Figuring she'd memorize the map later, she quickly headed out of the room.

"Oof!" she mumbled after bumping into a person standing just outside her room. "I didn't hear you knock." Regaining her balance, she turned sharp eyes to the new, and tall, figure.

"Ah, apologies, Miss, but here is your Identification card. This gives you access to floors that are otherwise known to be off limits for those who do not have security clearance." A gentleman not much older than her held out a laminated card with her picture and information on it. A bit dazed, she carefully grabbed the card with both hands and stared. As if boarding the ship wasn't official enough.

"Now, if you'll follow me, I'll be taking you to the Captain. You can call me Alex." His broad smile was charming and it seemed sincere enough. His dark hair and eyes complimented his strong facial features. He gave a small salute and headed towards the elevator.

Deciding the blue uniform wearing man was the most helpful person at the moment, Yukina followed suit. "Excuse me, Alex, but other than your name what is it you do?"

"I see you get your inquisition from your mother. I'm the Operations Officer aboard the KSO. You'll see me around, managing the day-to-day operations aboard the ship as well as managing cargo we receive from ports."

"Ports? I know Mars is a waypoint, but I didn't think we'd make other stops." Yukina glanced thoughtfully towards the ceiling, her steps slowing. Though recent, NASA was able to reach and land on Mars, creating a base of operations there. Even though it was all new and in developement, she couldn't imagine NASA had reached much further than that in the last five years.

"That's information the Captain and a select few know about. Ever since the Efi Dorg's arrival, our advancement in technology has improved tenfold. In other words, what would have taken us ten years of research has happened in one." Alex pressed the up button upon reaching the elevators. He turned, giving Yukina a cheeky smile. "While your studies were more focused on nanomachines, we've been able to expand beyond our solar system. That is, of course, thanks to Zell and his data."

"I see..." slightly overwhelmed, Yukina decided to not ask any more questions and instead kept quiet. Alex gave a hearty laugh and entered inside the elevator that dinged open, keeping his hand over the door to prevent it from closing on her.

"Like I said, we have time to discuss all this later with the Captain. Even as second-mate, I'm not all privy to the details. With America lending a huge hand in this, they tend to keep secrets." Upon hitting the "one" button, an automated voiced called out,

"Please. Scan. ID."

"In order to reach the bridge, we must use our ID card to gain clearance. That Red square framing your picture gives you clearance to any and all floors. The bar code below your picture is scanned to verify your identification." He pulled out his card and flashed it to the red screen. A happy chirp rung out and then,

"Alex. Conrad. Confirmed," a slight pause then, "Second. Guest. Please. Scan. ID."

Impressed, Yukina flashed her own ID card to the red glowing panel and heard the same happy chirp.

"Yukina. Shirahane. Confirmed." The panel returned to a black screen and the elevator began making its climb to floor one. Fast and efficient, they reached the floor with no further chit-chat and headed towards a room that would contain the ships most elite crew. Upon entering, Yukina immediately sought out Sophie. It didn't take long, only a few people were already here.

"Sophie!" Yukina exclaimed, claiming the seat next to hers. Sebastian appeared then and handed them both a bottle of water. Thanking Sebastian, she didn't waste any time to quench her thirst. Now if there was anything to eat...

"What do you suppose Kennosuke is up to right now?" Sophie asked bluntly, setting aside the bottle of water. Her violet eyes peering into her own blue eyes. If Yukina didn't know any better, she'd say this was the first time Sophie brought him up since he left.

Her heart ached.

"No doubt causing Zell and Muetta trouble. I mean, his actions here on Earth were trouble enough. If he hasn't knocked a few heads by now..." her gaze now roamed off to the side, her thoughts of Kennosuke taking her to a whole new place. Absentmindedly, her left hand clutched the vile of blood.

Sophie continued to stare and wait for any more thoughts to be voiced. Seeing as how Yukina continued to stare longingly off into the distance, she knew no further explanation was coming. Shame.

Yukina often dreamed of their reunion. She told herself she'd be happy when she saw him. They would run into one another's arms and share an embraced filled kiss. But on the days she was sad she would give him a good punch in the face! Honestly, there were only three words she wanted nothing more than to hear in the entire world from him.

"Bring me coffee!" Was heard just outside the door and seconds later a woman with striking features came walking in. With silver braided hair tied into a bun and green eyes perusing the room, she had everyone's eyes on her. The aura she gave off screamed authority and demanded attention. She reminded her of a fox. Could she be their Commander? "It would seem the Captain has yet to arrive."

Or not.

The unidentified woman headed towards the chair at the head of the table and stood just to the left of it. The maroon uniform she was wearing complimented her features very well, but not quite sure about her attitude.

Yukina opened her mouth to ask Sophie a question but she gave a small shake of her head, discouraging her. Letting out a small sigh and rotating her chair in the other direction, she took notice that Alex sat down beside her, his warm smile easing her nerves. Was he always this happy?

"Atten-tion!" The silver-haired fox called out, raising her right hand to a salute. Yukina bolted out of her chair at the command, feeling slightly guilty that Alex's smile made her miss Kennosuke even more. Although they looked nothing alike, she was missing the subtle looks and sheepish grins he would give her.

A man in his mid-to-late fifties came strolling in with a few people strutting in behind, one of them was holding a cup of coffee. Said coffee was quickly delivered. The authoritative woman actually cracked a smile. She'll have to remember that.

"At ease, everyone." The blonde haired commander said in a gravelly tone. Taking the seat at the head of the table, he sat and gestured everyone to do the same. His traits looked quite familiar...

"I believe introductions are in order. Now that we're aboard the KSO, short for Kurobe Space Shuttle One, we are the few who are authorized personnel on board and faces we'll be seeing quite often." He looked around the table, noticing a few eyes were roaming over the others. "I'm Captain Mark Borden, a retired member of MI6." That would explain the accent he had. But wait, did he just say-

"Excuse me, but, you wouldn't happen to be related at all to Tom Borden?" Yukina interrupted, getting a glare from who she assumed was the Captains second-in-command. Flashbacks of his ruthless combat training came flooding in and a look of terror flashed across her face. If Yukina wasn't so distracted, she would have noticed the small smirk Sophie gave her.

"Ah, that would be my nephew. Loud mouth that brat is. Glad my son never turned out like him. Speaking of which, where is he?" Borden turned and gave the silver haired woman behind him a slight frown.

"He has another matter to attend to, sir. I believe I debriefed you on the matter earlier."

"Right, right." Turning back and facing everyone he continued, "This here is Adelina Grave, she is the Executive Officer and in command when I am not available. She was top of her military class back in the America's and we are glad she has decided to grace us with her expertise."

Yukina wasn't so sure about that. The woman made her uneasy.

"Next we have Alex Conrad, our Operations Officer. You'll see him more often than not, as he'll be receiving daily reports from you all. He'll be assigning a structured and timed schedule for when you're to report to him. It's a good thing he's a decent looking fellow." The captain gave a hearty laugh at his joke. Others joined in, albeit hesitantly.

"Thank you, Captain." Alex actually had a small tinge of pink upon his cheeks. Compliments made him awkward, it would seem. Yukina smiled to herself. How would Kennosuke react to such a comment? Had she ever given one to him? She glanced down to the red liquid filled tube. Alex took notice.

"Riku Hamishi is our ships Navigator. Most likely wont see him but remember his name." A man sitting to the right of the captain gave a slight nod of his head. He was around her height and appeared slightly younger than the commander.

"Thirdly, there's Olivia Munche, who's our communications technician. Any and all communication including Earth to ports will go through her. If you receive any news, deliver it to her for her verification. This is extremely important, for communication is key." He gestured to a dark haired and light eyed woman with glasses. Her smile was comforting.

"Sophie Noel is our combat leader pilot for the newly developed GUAS 3's. Training will be held daily, with Sebastian as our strategy expert. He'll be teaching classes when you're not training. Although most of you have your own roles to play, being prepared is just as important." The two of them gave a curt nod, keeping a formal composure. Sophie had dedicated everything in the last five years to be in this position. After Zell turned down her offer of becoming a wearer, she trained and studied day and night to become worthy. She had her sights on becoming Medusa's pilot upon their return.

"Augustine Moreau is our Chief medical officer on board and our biochemistry expert. His staff are one of the finest in the country and are eagerly ready to study any extraterrestial lifeforms we come by. Alive, of course." Another hearty laugh followed by weary chuckles. An older man to the left of the Captain gave a wave of his hand. Sophie seemed to sit straighter in her chair at the mention of him. Most likely he was from her country and recognized him by name.

"Lastly, our Chief Researcher, Yukina Shirahane." All eyes turned towards her and she felt slightly uncomfortable under the scrutiny. By being a wearer, and with the help of her mother and Efi Dolg's technology, they were able to develop geoframes similar to the Black Relic. Being left behind that fateful day, she decided at that moment that she would follow in her mother's footsteps. This was the best way to reach Kennosuke, she thought.

"I've been following your research, miss Yukina, and I'm astounded by your work, and at such a young age I might add." Doctor Moreau commented, his eyes inquisitive. Was it possible he wanted to study her like Doctor Hausen wanted to? A chill ran down her spine.

"My mother should mostly be getting the praise. Although I've helped further her research, I've been studying nano machines and it's structures. I can now-"

"Accept a compliment when it's given, Yukina." Sophie interrupted and returned her eyes to the commander. Yukina frowned and realized her introduction was now over. Her recent discovery would most likely fall on deaf ears.

"These are for your eyes only. Take these back to your rooms and study it. Please keep this in the safe provided in your quarters when not perusing." Adelina began handing out a decent sized manila folder labeled "Top Secret" to everyone.

Yukina was tempted to open it now but noticed no one else had the same curiosity.

"This room, along with the sleeping quarters, are not audio and visually taped. Every where else is cataloged and sent to computer specialists to ensure our safety. So keep that in mind when you need to bring up confidential information. As you are all aware, everyone aboard has the understanding that this could possibly be a one way trip." Captain Borden stood, donning a hat Yukina just now noticed he had.

One by one, officers around the table stood, hand raising to a salute. Yukina did the same. As grimm as the statement was, she couldn't help but interject.

"Forgive me for saying, Commander, but I won't let this ship go down. Finding and fighting alongside Kennosuke to defeat the Efi Dolgs is my goal. I plan on bringing him home and marrying the brute."

"See that you do, Director. The fate of this ship is in your hands." Giving a perfect salute, the Captain took his leave, followed by the rest of the crew.

Yukina continued to stand silently and alone in the room. Tossing the folder on to the table, she crumpled into the chair, tears forming in her eyes. If anyone had said that to her five years ago, she would have never left home. Kennosuke wasn't the only one depending on her, the entire crew was.

Deciding wallowing wasn't doing her any good, she wiped the tears from her eyes and left. She would never want Kennosuke to see her in such a pitiful mood. With folder clutched in hands, she headed towards the elevator and back to her room to go over its contents. She knew this trip wasn't a leisurely one, but it would seem her days were going to be very busy. She had high hopes though, she was one step closer to seeing Kennosuke.

After shortly arriving to her room, knocking could be heard. Yukina felt physically and emotionally drained at the moment and really didn't want visitors. Splashing some water on her face, she grabbed a small cloth and wiped herself dry while heading towards the door.

"This better be important-" Yukina began saying while opening the door to reveal Sophie. She could feel her shoulders hunch. "If it isn't Sophie. Done reading your file already?" Opening the door wider, she gestured for her to enter. Sophie continued to stand where she was, her facial features in a more relaxing position.

"Not here for a social visit. We're to head to the hangar." Short and to the point as always, Sophie took off. Yukina groaned and followed.

"If this is about the training session, I have my own work I need to start first." They both flashed their ID cards to the elevator panel and began their descent to the hangar.

"Alex will be giving us our weekly schedules in the next week. We'll go about our own work until then, but that's not why we're going to the hangar." Sophie turned towards her and gave a small smile. "We've worked really hard over the years and I must say that I am excited for the both of us." Surprised by her comment, Yukina kept quiet, hoping for more insight to her thoughts. "We both have our reasons for this mission, but I often thought of you and your reunion with Kennosuke. He'd be proud of the woman you've become." The doors opened then and Sophie stepped out. Yukina smiled to herself and wondered how she knew she needed to hear those exact words.

Hangar 5 was a large and open space. It contained a couple dozen of the new GAUS 3 geoframes. Luckily, pilots were not in short supply. Yukina couldn't help but gaze in awe at the sight. Mouth open in wonder, she watched as workers buzzed about, heard commands being given and gazed at the newly promoted pilots undergoing training.

"Beauty, ain't it?" A male voice whispered in her ear from behind. Startled, Yukina jumped forward and gave a scared shout. Caught completely off guard, she turned to reprimand the culprit. When she locked eyes on him, she felt like she'd faint.

"Y-You're-!" If she didn't know any better, she'd say he was Tom Borden. His blonde hair was a bit longer and appeared messier, and his eyes were more of a grey, but she could swear-

"Name's Jake. You're probably thinking why a handsome bloke like me looks similar to that yankee, Tom. We're cousins. Our father's are twins, it's why we look so similar." British like his father, the Captain, he gave an exaggerated bow, almost mocking their custom. Although they looked a lot alike, Jake appeared taller and of bigger build. Military, most likely. Were all Borden men like this?

"It's a good thing you didn't faint, Yukina, I'd hate to have you dragged back to your room." Sophie chimed in. Yukina didn't appreciate what she assumed was a weight comment and puffed her cheeks out at her. Rude!

"A gentlemen like me would never drag a lady. But carrying a woman off would be a sign of courtship." Jake gave Yukina a charming wink. What day and age did he live in? Ignoring his charm, Yukina shrugged him off and returned her attention to Sophie.

"Honestly, if you dragged me here for this ridiculous show, consider me unimpressed." Arms now crossed, she waited for Sophie to break out laughing and talk about how they would both laugh at this later. Neither happened.

"Jake is here to show you your new geoframe. He's the chief officer of the engineering department." Sophie began heading towards a much larger object that was well hidden beneath a black tarp. Now curious, she followed.

"But my mother and I already designed-"

"That was never meant for you." Sophie cut her off. They reached the desired position and she gestured towards someone far off in the distance.

"If the one we designed isn't meant for me, then who is it for?" It suddenly dawned on her that it would be Sophie. Feeling like she was stabbed in the back, Yukina turned on hot heels and began to walk away. The nerve! She knew her mother was mostly against the whole idea but to include Sophie on her little scheme?

"It was never meant for you because your mother wanted you to have this," Sophie called out, her voice taking a sharper tone. Yukina came to a stop and turned just in time to see the tarp being removed to reveal a most magnificent geoframe. She felt her heart skip a beat and she was left breathless. But then,

"Honestly, what was she thinking making it white?" Yukina gave a half laugh and half cry at the absurdity of it all. She couldn't believe her own mother pulled this off without her knowing. She missed her more than ever at that moment. It also reminded her of the black relic, and how much she missed being Kennosuke's navigator. Did he like having Muetta as a navigator? Was she more proficient? Were they...

A hard pat on the back by Jake gave her the courage she needed to step closer and inspect her new geoframe. And rid her of her own jealous thoughts.

"Beauty, ain't it?" Jake said proudly.

"I believe you've already said that..." Breathless, Yukina raised a shaking hand to touch the cool metal. Standing at 19m high, it looked like a force to be reckoned with. Trying to take it all in, she opened her mouth to ask a question when Captain Borden came up.

"I was hoping to be here when they revealed your new geoframe, the Shiromukuro. I was also hoping to introduce you to your new pilot." Clearing his throat, he clasped his hands behind his back and gave her a warm smile.

"Pilot? I thought-"

"Your mother and I made an agreement. She would design this for you if you had a pilot. She didn't want you to handle it alone. Besides, she knows how much you despise fighting."

"It's not the fighting that bothers me per say..."

"Even able to design solo-piloting, she knew you would need help. Your talent lies in recon. Being the pilots navigator also gives you a clearer conscience."

"My sensibilities isn't the concern. These last five years did not go to waste. I'm perfectly capable of piloting my own frame."

"Unfortunately, that isn't possible. Your nanomachine channel is already connected to this one. And so is your pilots."

"Fine." Yukina pressed both her index and middle fingers to her temples, massaging them lightly. "Who is this pilot?"

"I believe you've already met him. My son, Jake." The commander said proudly.

Noooooo! Her mind screamed and she looked at Jake in sheer terror.