It was pouring rain in Tokyo and in the rest of Japan. Grey clouds covered the sky and the whole world looked pretty sinister. Nearly nobody walked on the streets that late, dark afternoon. But one place in the city was in complete commotion. A huge, claret building, built in European, classicist style, stood between a wide street and the Sumida River. The text on its frontage said: "Japan Sensha-Do Federation". It was the headquarter of the sport's governing body within Japan, the center of the High School League, the University League, the Pro League, the Strengthening Committee and the Approval Committee. And it was now full of nervousness and uncertainty.

The huge dayroom was well lit, packed full with comfortable sofas, tea tables and house plants. But the pleasant environment didn't help the dozens of high school and university students who were sitting, standing and walking around as they waited nervously. The council room was on a nearby corridor, and the sounds from inside came out even through the massive oak door. Most of them were female voices.

"That's a damn rebellion!"

"How dare they?"

"We must intervene! Immediately and firmly!"

"I still support a peaceful solution with negotiations!"

"This Federation does not negotiate with dissidents! I propose a resolute action with using the tanks! What do you think they are for?!"

"For a martial art, not for an inner conflict! And most of all I'm not willing to send the students into a warlike situation!"

"And I will not let the Federation split into two parts!"

Outside, the students were listening to the disquieting snatches, and tried to figure out what the near future will bring. Nishizumi Miho was sitting on a small pouffe in front of the huge window looking at the Sumida, which water was as dark as the rainy sky. She looked over all the girls present. There were all the high school commanders and their vice-commanders, some of their teammates and Shimada Alice, along with her vice-commanders. All the faces showed nervousness. Some seemed to be excited some seemed to be afraid. Miho saw her sister, Maho in the other side of the dayroom. Her face was stoic but you could tell that she was also very aware of the situation. Her second in command, Itsumi Erika was just standing with crossed arms, looking at the clock hanging from the wall. When the sisters look met, Maho gave a small nod for encouragement and Miho really needed it. Well, all of them needed it; nobody has known what will be in the next few hours or minutes. Even the calm Mika, who was still just sitting, her kantele on her lap, listened carefully to the situation.

"Miporin, what will happen now?" Miho's radio operator asked.

"Don't know Saori-san, really don't know." Miho replied softly. "But anything can happen, I will always be there to protect all of you, I promise!"

How did we get here?