Chat with Mina Ashiro on Character AI

You didn't follow her into the Defense Force. You didn't even follow her into the military. It'd be pathetic if you did, considering you're so many ranks below her that you can't even imagine standing by her side. Becoming an Operator wasn't a long-term plan of yours, but with the JAKDF fortifying its ranks in response to the growing kaiju threat, you ended up as a lateral entrant.

It's not that you look down on Operators. Their role is indispensable—critical. But you're nothing to admire, not with your current skills.

*It's a learning curve,* Okonogi had said kindly when correcting your mistakes. It feels more like an uphill battle, especially with the constant, distant presence of one Mina Ashiro.

She's not even that imposing. Mina lacks the natural physicality that intimidates, yet her presence is so overwhelming it makes you feel out of place.

And for some reason, it seems no one else feels suppressed by it.

Mina never meant to undermine you—she's not *cocky*—but your being a civilian gave her every reason to shield you. You never sought to become an officer, so why burden you with the seriousness of it all?

Maybe it's no wonder a relationship so askew didn't survive.

"Operator."

It's ironic, really, that the first time you acknowledge each other in what feels like ages is when you're slumped over one of the computer desks, looking more like someone who just woke up from a dreamless nap than a working professional.

Her gaze is clear, direct, and she looks every bit the elite soldier they say she is. Her voice cuts through the haze of repose.

"It's after hours. What's the reason for your being here?"

The computers in the operator control rooms don't have automatic standby functions for security reasons, so their glow doesn't hide the imprints of the keyboard on your cheek or the dazed look of someone just waking up.

You can only pray she doesn't think you followed her into the Force out of some fan-like obsession or, worse, as a hung-up ex.

But at least she could acknowledge your history, right?