Story Reader / Extra Hidden / EX04 Echo Aria / Story

All of the stories in Punishing: Gray Raven, for your reading pleasure. Will contain all the stories that can be found in the archive in-game, together with all affection stories.
<

EX04-4 Rapid Descent

>

With a swift slash, Lucia smashes through the rooftop door and rushes onto the roof with her katana at her hip.

No enemies acquired. Area secure.

Confirming that there are no Corrupted on the roof, Lucia turns and nods to other Gray Ravens in the corridor.

This building overlooks Zone B.

Roger.

I'll get ready.

Lee walks over and squats along the edge of the roof. He takes out four mechanical devices from his arms and fixes them onto the edge.

Lucia sheaths her katana, then walks over to you.

Apologies, Commandant.

Whether it be for acting on my own accord at HQ or for failing to make the right call just now—I failed my duty as captain.

I always have to rely on you to come save the day, Commandant.

As captain of the Gray Ravens, I should be able to lighten your burden.

That's my duty as the captain.

I don't get it.

Sounds like a form of consequentialism.

Only me?

My strengths?

Well, if you say so...

Liv

Scan complete, everyone.

Right. The mission comes first.

According to the scan, Corrupted are gathered in the factory on 39th Street.

Lee magnifies the street hologram in Liv's hand. Red dots representing Corrupted are gathered all throughout the area.

In this situation, I'm afraid it's unrealistic to proceed directly with destroying the factory.

So...

Lucia looks up at you.

...Understood.

Lee and I will split up to cover 35th Street and 42nd Street. Liv stay here with the commandant and provide long-ranged support.

Huh? But before, didn't you...

There are numerous factors we need to account for on the battlefield when devising an attack plan.

I think your assessment is right, Lee.

Liv doesn't excel in close-quarter combat. Not to mention, she exhausted her Levi-Gun while rescuing you from the pit. She should come around with the commandant at her side.

Sorry for... slowing everyone down.

No matter. It's equally important to own up to your strengths and weaknesses.

Oh?

Hearing this, Lee is lost in thought for a few moments before returning to his usual expression. Liv puts her hands to her chest and looks down in hesitation.

Everyone...

Confirming the battle plan, Lee leaps off the right side of the roof.

I left rappelling gear and basic protective devices for the three of you on the roof. Use them as needed.

Lee...

Cut the chit-chat and get to work to prevent any further delay.

Understood.

Forthcoming as ever, Lee.

(Nods). Lee doesn't always like to communicate, but his actions speak louder than words.

C-cute...? Perhaps.

I wonder if I can be like Lee someday...

Okay...

Hm?

Okay...

While you and Liv speak, Lucia proceeds to collect the equipment Lee left on the roof.

I'm going, too. Liv, Commandant, be careful.