ACT 2

Flechette Jaydamn is undoubtedly the best pilot I have ever known. This is not questioned. Edge is a whirlwind of blades and death in the BIRTH OF VENUS. I, specifically, deferred taking provisional command at the death of Wing Erra in favor of recommending Flechette Jaydamn for the position. I still believe he is the best soldier we have on this squadron.

But a cross is your other half. And I know the consequences of losing your cross better than most. Many soldiers would be able to withstand the burden of losing your cross in battle. I know that, with difficulty, I was able to push through. And I do not doubt that, in a typical combat scenario, Edge would have been able to push through without hesitation. He is a pure blade, a servant of the ARC, and a true Edge through and through.

However, the circumstances of the death of his cross were unconventional. As noted in my previous reports, there was an incident with 2nd Pwr. Jaydamn’s cross, involving an unauthorized THRONE launch. In valorous loyalty and service to his empire, Flechette Jaydamn took it upon himself to disable his cross, before his cross could put others in harm’s way. Flechette followed the mission to its most extreme consequence, and understood the required conditions for the greater good, beyond his own personal feelings. 2nd Pwr. Jaydamn heard the call of duty, and answered. For this, I commend him to the utmost. I wish to one day be a soldier as stalwart and unyielding as Edge.

It is undeniable that this particular psychological burden is unique in its character. And, while it’s true that, outwardly, Flechette Jaydamn has not faltered in his command, the reality is that no one can be expected to function at their best after an experience like that. Being forced to cross swords with your brother is a weight that few in the ARC, perhaps in UCF history, can really truly understand. Loyalty and valor cut both ways, it seems.

Over the last month, Flechette has deteriorated. His command is not as quick and as insightful as before. His orders are hesitant, uncommitted. His battle strategies fail. He is reckless, with resources and with the lives of his subordinates. Losses due to mismanagement are high, accelerated by new enemy weapons technologies. We need our best soldiers in command, in top condition. Valor and loyalty are not enough; a blade can be strong and firm, but it still needs to maintain an edge to cut. A blade that does not flex is brittle and cracks. It is clear that Edge is starting to crack.

I hereby refer 2nd Pwr. Flechette Jaydamn, my acting commanding officer, for medical leave stateside, to be able to recover and recharge, such that he can most be effective as our commanding officer, when he should be ready to once again shoulder that burden.