Setting Sun
The wind blew steadily upon the Yokosuka naval base, the air salty and the sunlight so bright you would have to cover your eyes to ever be away from the light. It was a beautiful day, it looked like the perfect day. But it could never have been farther from the truth. Today was the day ships that they had known over their years would be sent away to be sunk. Though they had come to terms somewhat with sinking in battle against the abyssal threat, now it seems after all their hard work and tears that they were the threat now.
They were informed at 1500 hours 2 weeks ago that with the abyssal threat neutralized to the point of them being "little more than pirates". That even the worlds modern warships could fight them as equals due to the abyssal numbers being reduced to a staggering 2 percent of their original fighting strength. Upon hearing this the girls of the Yokosuka naval base rose up in cheers until the development continued. Kanmusu, or ship girls as some call them were not only not recognized as the hero's, but had been discussed as "The next future weapon that would shape the world as we know it." Though it may seem true to most, to the Kanmusu of the naval base it turned the entire room silent. Restrictions had been placed upon nations who could make Kanmusu, which only included nations involved in world war 2. Primarily the nations that formed the Axis had more severe restrictions in the amount of Kanmusu they could have. Apparently Kanmusu seemed to only appear for nations in world war 2, and that almost all military weapons were ineffective against them, the most notable being the nuclear bomb.
Did they not fight beside all other nations to secure victory? Did they not work hand in hand with american ship girls, enemies of the past to fight for a new future? They had also wanted to win the war, some knew that they wouldn't make it to the end. Yet their admiral tried hard and shouldered the burden with them to get as many out alive as possible, and now this. The restriction was an abomination to the Kanmusu naval bases and legitimized murder, many of the Kanmusu had believed japan would step up and not give away its past that came back to save it in its time of need. Yet they agreed, and shocking to the girls it seemed to only be because the United States would be giving up more, though their remaining size would still remain a giant to them. All nations with Kanmusu seemed to agree with the decision, as it seemed "Only nations with ship girls could actually wage war properly now". That was beside the fact however that no one in their right mind would want to go to war after the abyssal threat.
"Maybe their is more that they are not telling us?"
Houshou sat along the porch of Mamiya's cafe, gently rubbing the sleeping destroyer whose head was in her lap. The rest of the aircraft carriers, her ship daughters in a sense were inside enjoying a meal. She thought to join them but Yuudachi seemed too cute when she passed out as they talked. Though she couldn't quite understand why even in her sleep she keeps saying "poi".
She inhaled deeply, taking in the salty air as she thought that today seemed like another carefree day. She wished these days could last forever, but the sound of rotor blades approaching in the distance ruined her mood for such a fantasy. The idea of going inside and seeing the other seemed more appealing as her thoughts grew more cold.
"How many will they take? How many until they stop?"
Today was going to be the first set of "sinkings". They had been informed the ones chosen would be flown out to the Marianas trench. What exactly would happen to them was never specified, but one thing was for sure. There would be many less faces around the base, and even less smiling ones. She supposed they thought it was okay, they had re-summoned fallen Kanmusu before. Though it was under the understanding that when they came back, they have no memory of any previous summons. Though seeming like a godsend, it was torture on any admiral or fleet member to know the person whom you have fought beside for many months sinks, just to come back and not remember the moments you shared.
She felt the blonde head in her lap start to stir as she got up rubbing her eyes cutely.
"Poiiiiiii... nmmm nmm nmmm. Oh mama Houshou, I'm sorry I didn't realize i was so tired"
"It's quiet alright Yuudachi-san. You heated my lap quiet well and put my mind at ease."
She smiled the best she could, delighted to see a smile crack across Yuudachi's face as well. The girl was so carefree that it really was a miracle she came across her.
"Yah.. Well that night recon was more trouble than it was worth. Sendai gets so energetic anytime she sees so much as a shadow."
She stretched as Houshou looked out, somewhat missing the warmth on her lap, but was all to willing to trade that for a conversation.
"True, but that is what makes her the best at keeping you girls safe, nothing is gonna sneak up on you as long as Sendai continues to be nocturnal."
Yuudachi stretched her arm above her head, letting out a cute poi as she warmed her body up.
"But i'm not, Shigure and I can hardly hang out now with me sleeping all day"
"Perhaps you should sleep in Shigure's lap then?"
Yuudachi stuttered as her face grew red from embarrassment, her hand automatically going to her mouth.
"But but... Houshou-san.."
"Come on. Is it really so wrong? Your just sisters"
"Poi..."
The sound of the rotor blades growing silent towards the landing pads did not sooth her nerves as she gave Yuudachi a motherly smile.
"I'm going to go grab a bit to eat. Would you like to join me Yuudachi?"
Yuudachi's face seemed to contort, her ears also angled to hear the helicopter in the distance. Her smile turning into a frown as she turned back to her, giving a smile so forced it seemed to hurt.
"No thank you. Um, i'm going to go and find Nee-san okay? Maybe we both will come by to eat if you are here."
She nodded as Yuudachi turned and ran off, the midday light gleaming off the white stone walkway as she departed. The sun seemed to be lowering as Houshou turned around and headed inside the cafe, hoping no one else came.
The smell of grilling meat and steaming miso soup wafted into her nose as she inhaled deeply taking it all in. Mamiya really was a high class chef in her own right, her food was not only delicious but she was able to feed the entire base which was in no ways small. She scanned the room, immediately seeing Mamiya on the hibachi grill frying up a pile of rice and meat. Her precious girls, Akagi, Kaga, Souryuu, Hiryuu were all eating at the large table centered just off to the side. Of course Akagi was eating a plate three times the size of any of the others plates. But it still made her smile at how life went on in its own funny way.
Across the room she could see two other light carriers like herself. Junyou and Ryuujou talking about how their practice went. She could tell what it was about as the clearly intoxicated Junyou was almost yelling it out for the entire cafe to hear but no one seemed to mind. No one else seemed to be around, perhaps it was the same reason as her. Maybe they were all just spending what little time they have left with sisters and friends.
She gracefully approached the counter and sat down, her body turning to look at the girls eat and laugh. It seemed like they hadn't a worry in the world which eased her soul as she heard the thunk of a bowl being placed in front of her. She turned eyeing Mamiya skeptically as she looked at the bowl.
"I hadn't ordered anything though Mamiya-san"
"Its on the house. Consider it my treat, I know you will enjoy it"
Looking back down as a second smaller bowl was placed in front of her she barely realized her stomach growled just loud enough for Mamiya-san to hear. The meal looked tempting beyond belief, a pile of cooked rice with meat and vegetables placed atop of it and a small bowl of ice cream with what she could tell to be chocolate and banana slices on it.
"You sure know how to make a girl fall in love"
She did a short bow to Mamiya in thanks as she grabbed the bowl and began to grab a scoop
"Careful it's hot"
A quick blow on it did confirm that the meat was indeed hot off the grill as she placed it back into the bowl and took another glance at the table of four aircraft carriers. She must of done that for quiet awhile as she felt a nudge on her elbow and looked over seeing Mamiya washing some plates.
"Why don't you go join them?"
She looked back quickly and smiled, their was definitely enough room for her and she knew she would be welcomed. As she grabbed the two bowls however she heard the doors to the cafe open wide with the sounds of boots hitting the floor. Mamiya's hands stopped moving and she cursed herself for not acting quick enough as she turned around seeing two soldiers in uniform and an officer from the Navy.
The officer seemed to look around for a bit, with every eye turning to him in response as she took quick note of what was happening. The officer seemed to have short black hair with what she could tell from the cap he wore as per uniform and the officers garb he wore. The soldiers however seemed ready for confrontation as they wielded very large high caliber rifles with drum clips. She didn't know the name of it offhand but it was clearly only used to pierce heavy armor, or a Kanmusu in this case. While normal bullets would ripe their clothing it would bounce off their skin as if it really was steel. Even with those high caliber weapons she doubted they could kill a Kanmusu, but it would hurt and she doubted it would be practical to carry around rocket launchers.
The officer seemed to look at everyone for a moment before walking towards the middle of the room, the soldiers standing by the door. The officer bowed respectfully to Mamiya as she raised an eyebrow at the display.
"I'm very sorry for ruining this beautiful cafe with the sight of weapons, but orders are orders."
He stood up to his full height, ending at around six feet tall as Houshou gulped. The officer seemed to notice her discomfort and tried his best at a friendly attitude.
"Don't worry, we are not here for you Houshou-san, you may relax"
At this he turned right, looking at the two light carriers whom noticed his presence but seemed to be having a better time finishing their meal.
"Light Aircraft Carrier Junyou. It is my unfortunate duty to inform you that you have been chosen to be sunk as per Japans cooperation with the Leman Treaty."
"But why? What has she done wrong"
Houshou immediately spoke up as Junyou drank to her hearts content of her sake, the proclamation didn't seem to bother here.
"Ahhhhhhhhh. Well it was fun."
She said with a sad smile on her face as the officer turned to Houshou.
"Im sorry, the reason's as far as I am aware is lack of self control when drinking and disregard for base time restraints."
"But she is strong! She keeps all the girls spirits up even if she is a bit of a sleeping in that doesn't mean-"
"Relax Mama Houshou, I know its scary but I'm okay with this."
Houshou stuttered as Junyou spoke and stood up, grabbing her bowl and quickly consuming the contents. However Houshou still wouldn't have it.
"Please, if your required to take someone then please take me."
"Houshou don't!"
"Houshou-san!"
Her girls said as the officer looked her straight in the eyes, Junyou looking at her with somewhat of a apologetic face.
"I know it must be hard on you Houshou-san but I'm okay with-"
"I'm not... Please... just... just take me instead"
Akagi stood from her seat, quickly traveling the room to grab Hoshou by the sleeve with her face in wonderment.
"Houshou-san why? Junyou's..."
"Not another word Akagi. Iv'e made my decision"
The officer continued to look at her, his gaze testing her resolve as the room grew quiet. Even Junyou was quiet in this intense decision and she was still intoxicated. Her gaze settled on the officer, her mind trying to steel itself for what she was trying to do.
"Please... I can't just sit at dock and worry my girls wont come home... Let me do this..."
The room held an still silence at those words. Houshou held her breath, resisting resorting to tears. It seemed to last for only a minute however as the officer nodded at her proposal.
"Very well. We will take you instead."
She sighed a deep breath of relief upon hearing that which was quite baffling. She was just sentenced to death? No, she just saved one of her friends. She glanced at Junyou who held a troubled look. Houshou's mind wandered briefly before upon reflex, jumped when she felt a hand on her shoulder. Looking quickly she barely realized it was the officer.
"My apologies for all this. Your a very brave woman, and I'm sorry this is being done to you"
"Houshou-san... I'm... I'm sorry i wasn't the best carrier you raised... I was originally just a passenger liner, not an aircraft carrier... If it wasn't for me..."
"Its fine Junyou. Just keep being you and.. take care of my girls"
Junyou seemed stunned at the proclamation before nodding, letting loose a sad smile as she turned to the officer.
"Please, lead the way."
The blew with a firm desire as she approached the helicopter. Flanked by the two soldiers the ramp slowly lowered in the back, revealing two other Kanmusu and a soldier. It seems she was not the first on the list as Murakumo and Maruyu both looked at her baffled.
"Even Houshou-san?! What the hell are you guys trying to pull!"
Murakumo yelled, the soldiers in response gripping their weapons tighter. She was sitting down, being strapped to a seat inside the helicopters with chains to keep her from getting up. Those would help, but only for a few seconds. A ship girls might was not to be underestimated and they knew it as Houshou sat down without a word next to Mamiya with Murakumo across from her.
"It's okay Murokumo-san. I asked that they take me"
"Asked?! But..."
Her sentenced never finished as Maruyu spoke up with her tiny voice.
"What's going to happen to us Houshou-san?"
They both paused at those words, the officer taking this brief moment to leave before things got any more awkward for him. Houshou was chained down to her seat, the chain thick but not unbreakable to her. However she still reached over and patted Maruyu's head beside her as she gave her best winning smile.
"We are just gonna go to sleep. We'll be back, and then we can all hang out just like we always have"
Maruyu sniffled, holding in sobs as she glanced at Murakumo with her arms crossed. She was hard headed and may seem displeasing but she knew she always spoke her mind at any opportunity and she was having none of this. Murakumo looked down at the ground in thought, processing the feeling of all this. It must be hard on her, she still acted so young but it was not to say she was unskilled.
"I... I was chosen since -sniffle- I'm useless in a fight and could only ever go on expeditions..."
Maruyu spoke out as she leaned her head into Houshou's chest, hot tears staining her shirt and she held the young girl close. Though harsh Maruyu was too fragile and wouldn't hurt a fly. She wanted to help her friends, but could only ever do it with supplies.
"I was chosen since, apparently I have a problem with authority. Baka admirals..."
Murakumo spat out as she kept looking down, but she could tell from her eyes she was quite depressed at the announcement. She was indeed pretty harsh on the admiral when she first arrived, but it didn't mean she had a problem with authority. Merely... she didn't understand the importance of orders.
Though that statement got her thinking. What does the admiral think of all of this? He had been gone for over a week after the negotiations, apparently lobbying with other admirals to recede the treaty to no luck. As soon as he was back he was drowned in paperwork, he couldn't even see his girls. How painful it must be for him to know despite his best efforts he's going to lose some of his ship girls today.
Houshou gently held Maruyu in her arms as they waited, the soldier sitting respectfully on the other end of the back room of the helicopter. Marukumo seemed to have quieted down somewhat after many baka's, however she had never seen her more depressed before.
After several minutes the ramp began to lower again as the light of day began to peek through. Everyone looked, seeing the Heavy Cruiser Suzuya being lead inside with a perplexed look on her face. Behind she could see the admiral in full uniform watching, a frown on his face. She knew he was resisting tears as Suzuya spoke out in disbelief.
""This is a joke, right admiral? Haha you got me... uh..."
"I'm very sorry for this. can you please sit down?"
The officer said calmly pointing to the seat next to Murakumo. Suzuya seemed to quiver at the thought before very slowly easing down onto the chair and allowing the chain to wrap around her waist.
"Admiral!" Suzuya screamed out as he watched about fifteen yards from the ramp. "You'll bring us back right? This won't be the end right?"
"Suzuya I am-"
The ramp suddenly started to raise with all but the admiral inside, the sound of the blades rotating drowning out his words.
"Admiral!" Suzuya yelled out as the door closed and the soldiers proceeded to seat themselves.
Suzuya was quiet as the blades began to pick up speed, a small tear on her cheek. Murakumo lightly rubbed her shoulders getting her attention.
"Hey, it'll be okay. He needs us way more than he is willing to admit"
Rubbing the tear away Suzuya let out a hearty laugh with a smile.
"Since when did you become so mature Murakumo-san?"
"Baka!"
She spouted as she turned her head away, a blush adorning her cheeks as Houshou tried her best to focus upon the silliness. She felt a shift in weight and she knew they had just lifted off into the sky.
Her only regret was she was unable to say goodbye.
The air was warm and salty as it flowed across her skin. The sunlight was fading over the horizon and with it so would those girls. How disturbing that the hero's of the ocean would become the monsters. But she supposed that is something destined to happen given time. The only true monster were those in your heart.
Her eyes carefully opened, seeing the setting sun as her planes began to make their approach. Her eyes a clear blue with black hair as dark as the night. An aura of confidence as she looked up to the orange sky.
"Help me save them... That was his request. This was the point of no return"
"Everyone. Begin operation"
Houshou quietly looked at the girls as they rested. There were no words during the flight as Maruyu slept leaning on her shoulder, giving her ample room to rest her head on that of the young submarine. Suzuya seemed to also be the same, her head resting on that of the destroyer Murakumo who quietly allowed it to happen. Perhaps she was rethinking her attitude because of this.
The sky outside the small window was a blazing orange and the sun seemed to be setting. The ride should not last that much longer as she began to get comfortable again with her thoughts on those back home.
"I wonder just how long this will last. Its only a temporary fix for them if any. I suppose i can only hope for the best in any case."
She closed her eyes, her mind drifting as a bump disturbed her efforts as well as waking Maruyu.
"Are we there yet?"
Maruyu asked as Houshou felt another bump, and then another.
"Wait. Whats causing bumps in a helicopter?"
The answer soon revealed itself as the screeching of metal reached her ears and bullets filled the cabin in mass. Everyone woke up in shock as the rounds easily pierced the hull of the plane and began to hit its occupants. Houshou felt stinging all over as the bullets bounced and the aircraft tilted, pulling upon everyone with G forced due to the sharpness of the turn.
Blood splattered the wall as a soldier was riddled before fire began to take form from the cockpit. The turning did not stop as Houshou realized they were going to crash. The officer whom was with them tried with all his might and was barely able to press a button along the wall, allowing the ramp to open as they spun out. The bullets seemed to have stopped for the moment as the force threatened to rip her from her seat. The light of the setting sun appeared and disappeared with haste as the helicopter spun, the setting sun visible in brief moments from the opening bay door.
The sound of screaming could not reach her ears as their altitude lowered with the sun fading and fading until they reached the water and all was black.
She was tired, hurt and tired as she was being pulled. Houshou briefly opened her eyes and realized the helicopter was already halfway in the water. She looked up, seeing Suzuya with her head barely above the water pulling on her chain that bonded her to the wall. She would drown if she did not hurry. Acting without thinking Houshou quickly began to pull as well, rewarding her with a satisfying groaning of metal until the latch snapped and freed her.
Though she was free now it was not the time to be happy. Ducking her head into the water she began to pull with all her might on Maruyu's chain, she knew in her heart the girl did not have the strength to break it herself. Suzuya was not helping her this time, she could only think she was busy rescuing Murakumo. She pulled and eventually after much strain heard the groan again before the latch popped and the young submarine quickly swam out the open bay door.
Surfacing for air quickly, Houshou knew the helicopter would be underwater in mere moments as she held her breath again and dived down. She went deeper inside the aircraft to find the soldiers, they seemed to not move and Houshou could only guess they died from the impact. Bubbles quickly began to rise as an air pocket busted sending her up and hitting her head against the ceiling. She was dazed for a moment as a hand on the back of her shirt pulled her up to the surface with haste and she coughed, the sea water salty and her body aching from the event.
The sound of wheezing greeted her ears as she slowly rose above the water, using her natural abilities as a Kanmusu to float. Though she did not have any of her rigging and as such was limited to walking on water for the moment. She looked and saw everyone else floating coughing up the water as they gained their breath. The night sky becoming purple to the setting sun that was past the horizon.
Slowly lifting herself up she saw legs standing, and continuing to look up as she saw her it was indeed another Kanmusu. Her white blouse with a blue handkerchief around her neck, rigging adorning her back in medium caliber guns. A cruiser if she had ever seen one with sandy blonde hair tied into a hastily made ponytail. Freckles adorned her cheeks as the girl looked at the group in worry. An anchor sat at her hip with her white shoes having rudders on the heels. The sleeves of her shirt were short and her skirt ended right before her knees and was a light blue. she held onto a 8"/55 cannon in her right hand but the sight of several guns on her rigging made it clear she was not helpless.
"Are you girls okay?"
She spoke in Japanese, but to anyone the act was not easy. Even Houshou could tell it was not this girls natural language. The rest began to rise, with Murakumo groaning as the stretched her back.
"Fine. Not like I fell from the sky or anything"
"Funny. But look we have to go or else-"
"Wait Indie"
Another voice cut in as another Kanmusu slowed to a stop beside the girl. Her hair was as black as the night with eyes that seemed to reflect the deepest ocean. A dark blue navy uniform was hidden underneath a grey mantle she wore. A grey beret sat atop her head with an anchor emblem and a bandolier was wrapped around her chest. On it however Houshou could make out tiny planes that rested there instead of bullets, ready to be launched. In her right hand she held onto what looked to be an miniaturized aircraft carrier. Though upon further inspection it seemed to be a "gun" in a sense with the back end of the ship forming into the butt of a rifle. She wore a dark blue skirt that reached her knees that matched her uniform and two black boots with propellers attached completed the image.
"We aren't here to steal them away"
The girl said in perfect English that Houshou understood. Her first thought was american ships but it made little sense to her. This entire meeting was roiled in affairs of some sort.
"What are you here for? Were you the one who shot us down?"
Houshou said as the others got up, their entire attention being placed on the two foreign ship girls.
"Regretfully yes" The carrier said as she looked Houshou dead in the eyes."However our admiral has made it clear he wants to give you a choice in this matter. This is a rescue, not a recruitment. What you do from this point on is your choice."
"Why would the American Navy want to save us?"
"We aren't with the navy"
The cruiser jumped in and her words baffled the group. Not with the navy? The implications seemed to rise and rise but she was no closer to a clear understanding.
"What do you mean? Who is your admiral?"
"That isn't the point of this." The carrier interrupted, her eyes scanning the skies. "Our admiral doesn't want you to die needlessly after all that you have done for not only your nation but for everyone. As of now you only have two choices. Either you come with us and live, or you stay and perish."
"Wha!" Maruyu squealed as the groups entire attention was upon the two girls.
"We have given you an opportunity to escape. But you can also stay and be returned. However, that will not stop the treaty or the sinkings. The only solace in it is being able to see your friends again for a month at most until this happens again."
"So what? We are supposed to run and hide?" Murakumo said with fire on her tongue. The carrier looked at her, her blue gaze as hard as the steel of the ship she embodied.
"Stay and die. Or run and live. Those are the only options you have at the moment"
Murakumo grunted at those words, even being hardheaded she knew the options did not look good at all. But it could be worse, they could have been sunk or captured by abyssals.
"If you want to run. We can carry you to our base, then you can make your future decisions there. The admiral was very clear in that we will not force you to do anything"
Houshou gazed at her, trying to get any amount of information she could from her face. Alas the girl was a true fighter, she held an aura of authority but also serenity. It reminded her of Akagi but she was different. This girl was much more persistent in what she believed in.
She could hear the bubbles rise as the aircraft continued to sink, its tail was the only thing out of the water still as Houshou nodded making her choice.
"Ill come. If only to see what this is all about. I wont say I trust you fully but I understand your intentions are not evil"
The foreign carrier nodded with a hint of a smile, the first sign of emotion she has seen from the girl as the other chirped in.
"Um... Id also like to go..." Maruyu said as she wiggled slightly looking down.
"Well guess that settles it. I'm in!" Suzuya said with confidence as she stepped forward.
Murakumo looked at the group before looking down and to the side while her hands wrapped around her small chest.
"I guess i'll come too..."
"That's a full party. Haza!"
The foreign cruiser yelled out with her hand rising into the air. The act earned a giggle from Houshou as Murakumo looked back and forth between the two.
"So are we just walking? I don't think you two can carry all of us?"
Unknown to the destroyer a creature rose from the depths behind her, its aim true and ravenous.
"RAWR!"
Maruyu screamed as she dived behind Houshou. Murakumo jumped as well, instinctively hiding behind the heavier built Suzuya. Houshou looked back stunned that such a little thing made such a big fuss.
A girl, a submarine from what she could tell surfaced and looked at the group with eyes of a hawk, trying to gather all the information she could like a good recon vessel. Her hair was short and silver, stopping just below her ear with a dark blue handkerchief wrapped atop her head. She was small, like most submarines and seemed to have on a one piece dark blue swimsuit that matched the handkerchief. The girl had big light green eyes but what was most interesting was what she was holding. A miniature submarine was held in her hand, it was roughly the size of her torso and seemed to be her main way of propelling herself around. Two sets of four torpedoes decorated her thighs similar to some destroyers. The girl was quiet after her arrival while Maruyu sneaked a peak at the "beast".
"Why you little submerging piece of-"
Murakumo however was livid from the fright as the submarine quickly responded with.
"Bombardment incoming. Dive dive!"
The girl sank below the water extremely quickly as Murakumo jumped for her but missed, grabbing nothing but water. The foreign carrier messages the bridge of her nose as the cruiser laughed heartily at the ordeal.
"Harder get back up here. We need you to carry someone"
After a few seconds the submarine Harder from what she could call rose up before the foreign carrier. Murakumo shifted to get her before being yanked up by her collar by a smiling Suzuya.
"Now now, why is a cute destroyer afraid of a sub?"
Murakumo growled as Harder looked up at the carrier. The lower half of her body still in the water.
"Can you bring Maruyu back to the rendezvous with you? She is a submarine so she can breath in water"
The submarine nodded a yes before turning to Maruyu and patting her Miniaturized submarine.
"Go ahead and grab on Maruyu-san"
She said in perfect Japanese. Maruyu waited a second before nodding and grabbing on. Harder wasted no time and dove deep underwater and out of sight along with the other submarine. The carrier moved over to Houshou who now didn't have anyone beside her and turned around.
"Sorry but i have to hold my deck, Ill have to piggyback you to the rendezvous"
"Piggyback?"
She had never heard the term put quite like that before but relented and grabbed on while the foreign carrier was making sure she was out of the water. The cruiser moved over to Murakumo and Suzuya with a cheerful enough expression as she turned around while Suzuya still held Murakumo up by the back of her shirt.
"Here, go ahead and just sit on the rigging, just hope i don't have to shoot"
Murakumo looked at her with confusion, the arrays that floated above her head turning orange in confusion.
"You honestly think-"
She couldn't finish that sentence as Suzuya plopped her onto the rigging with a thunk. The cruiser noticeable shifted uncomfortably from the added weight but none the less turned around and quickly picked up Suzuya bridal style. Suzuya released a cute squeal as the cruiser laughed and they headed off.
"Sorry I'm not exactly prince charming but hey, least your cute"
"Thank you, but I already have a prince charming" Suzuya replied as the girl grinned from the comment.
"Really? Me too. Maybe later we can compare"
Murakumo shifted carefully as the cruiser speed away, her sight on the carrier that carried Houshou following right behind them. She looked around for better things to grab before letting go of the side of the rig and noticed a very dangerous symbol on it.
"What in the world! Why is there a radiation symbol here?"
"Oh that?" The girl said without a second thought. "Its nothing, just don't hit it unless you want to wipe out everything for 10 miles."
Murakumos face turned pale upon that revelation and didn't budge a single inch as the group headed towards land.
Never in her life has she attempted to travel so fast. Yuudachi sped along the waters in quick response to a distress signal from the transport helicopter, the one that Houshou-san and the others were on. Crazy night gale Sendai was equally fierce in the response time. Her two sisters were with them as well as Samidare and Mutsuki and they all felt the pressure of getting to them before the abyssals could do anything to them.
"This is torpedo squad three approaching the encounter zone. No signs of any abyssals."
"Roger Torpedo three. Torpedo one was attacked by unknown abyssal forces 20 kilometers from your current location and were forced to retreat. Be advised"
"Roger. Torpedo three out"
The air seemed saltier than normal as the fleet approached the last known whereabouts of the helicopter. Everyone was serious about this and they had a reason to be. They had grown lax when the abyssal threat had been deemed finished but it seemed that was not the case. They had very large scouting zones and they hardly saw any abyssals now. However that only further fueled the fact they unintentionally allowed them in to attack their friends. Something they wouldn't let happen again.
"Did we make it in time?"
Mutsuki asked as Sendai looked around.
"We are here"
She stopped with the entire fleet following suit as she brought out a cylinder. With a loud pop something shot out of it before a star shell began to illuminate the surrounding area in its light.
"I have nothing on sonar, radar or surface radar"
Samidare said as everyone looked around, not even seeing the helicopter even though most likely it sunk. Her greatest concern however was how something like this could happen anyway.
"We will keep searching until the carriers can take over at dawn. Just... Please be safe"
The air was light and cool as the moon quietly filled the sky. Its light barely anything, but it served to be better than the pitch blackness. The fleet started to slow down as they approached the beach before stopping, Murakumo stepping off quickly with her feet hitting the shallow water and Suzuya being let down. Harder surfaced along with Maruyu and Houshou was not far behind as everyone quickly followed their lead and walked up the beach.
The approach had to be quiet so they wanted to make as little noise possible. A response force likely would have reached where they crashed by now so they had to move fast. They quietly walked through the empty beach until they reached a parking lot. Not a soul was in sight to notice the seven girls, three of which were armed. The foreign cruiser seemed to still have boundless energy though as she ran across the lot to a charter bus that was parked there. Houshou looked back at the carrier who followed her along with everyone else, this entire scenario still baffled her and she wanted answers.
The door was unlocked with ease as the cruiser went inside as she quickly took off her heavy rigging and set it on one of the dozens of unoccupied seats.
"All aboard!"
She yelled as they came aboard one after another. The foreign cruiser seemed to be driving but everyone had freedom to sit where they pleased. Murakumo and Suzuya sat in the front most rows with the two submarines sitting right behind them. Houshou decided to sit behind the submarines and she expected the other carrier to join her but she walked straight past her into the back.
Before she could say a word the bus door closed and it was off. The submarines seemed to be becoming good friends, they were talking about the girls submarine she held as well as what kind of submarines they were. Harder seemed particularly surprised that Haruyu wasn't even a combat vessel. The two cruisers and destroyer talked, the driver somehow being the most awake.
"So whats your names? Like full names?"
Suzuya finally asked as they were driving down the dark roads.
"Finally bothered to ask huh?" The cruiser said looking back into the mirror briefly at her. "CA-35, USS Indianapolis at your service. Just call me Indie though, we have all kinds of nicknames for each other at the moment."
Suzuya didn't seem too surprised at the words as she leaned against the seat right behind her.
"Should've guessed Americans. For girls you have balls for pulling this stunt"
"I'm SS-257, USS Harder."
Maruyu seemed happy at those words as she inspected the little sub.
"That's good, I hear you were very skilled in the war."
"Mhm. Sunk myself a few destroyers even. Nothing gets past me"
Harder said making a fist while Murakumo rolled her eyes.
"And you?"
Houshou asked to the rear most occupant. She had been staring at the back window the entire time with her deck in her hand. It seemed like she was preparing for an immanent attack. Her eyes looked over at Houshou before noticing the others looking as well, each also wishing to hear her response. The carrier didn't speak for some time until it grew too quiet and she relented.
"Hero. Just call me Hero, everyone else does."
The girl looked back towards the window as Indie looked at the passengers with a frown.
"Don't mind here. She doesn't like her name. She only really came back to save you guys."
"Did she?"
Houshou said to herself as she looked back at the girl. It was obvious she was a american carrier but which one. One immediately came to mind but she threw it out of her mind, Enterprise was a secretary ship back in Hawaii.
The night grew colder as they began to see lights everywhere. It seemed during their talk and exchanges they had come to a city. The sky was dark but the lights served as sight as they traveled down a highway with people driving here and there.
"Where are we?"
Maruyu asked as they continued down the highway at night.
"Tokyo"
Indie said as she began to get off the highway and onto normal roads.
"Tokyo? Aren't you just taking us back to what we are running away from?"
Murokumo glanced about with intrigue and worry. She hadn't visited inside the city too much, even at night it was busy with life and had quite an air about it.
"As a submarine. You must learn to hide under what is everywhere"
Indie let out a hearty chuckle at Harder's words for life as Houshou looked back at Hero-san. It felt wrong to call her by something other than her true name but it was her choice. Perhaps in time she would learn just which carrier she was. She had thought maybe it was simply the pressure of being american around Japanese but Hero didn't seem like the kind of person to hold back for such a reason.
The group began to quiet down as they apparently neared their destination. Hero's eyes gleamed with concern as a police car with its lights on past them by, but it seems they were after other fish. A few minutes later then began to see the ocean before the arrived at a dockyard. Indie parked the bus just off to the side as she stood up. There was only one ship in dock currently and no dock hands on the ground.
"All aboard!"
She said as she grabbed her rigging and led everyone out. The ship was massive but it definitely wasn't military. It seemed like it was a transport, Its black and red hull dwarfed a destroyer, being only on par of sheer size to that of a aircraft carrier. A ramp was already lowered on the side so passengers could board but no soul could be seen.
As everyone stared up at the massive ship the three american ships waited little in walking up the ramp. Even Hero-san with all her seriousness seemed to be going quickly. She supposed it was natural, Houshou recalled many times where girls who came back from an expedition would run to the admirals office. As they followed suit she read the name of the ship, its name a foggy memory that puzzled her.
"Kuro End"
"Where have I heard that name before?"
"Admiral!"
Indie screamed out to the world as she got onto the deck of the ship. The others followed suit seeing a few female crew members looking at them curiously. It seemed the ship was not without its people after all. However the fact that she only saw female members was curious. Houshou was about to speak before another voice broke the night.
"Indie!"
A little girl, perhaps barely twelve years old ran up to indie and was enveloped in a hug as she spun.
"Oh hello Lily I'm back. Mission successful!" She said raising her thumb as the girl did so in a similar fashion.
The little girl stood a hair shorter than Maruyu with black hair that was tied into twin tails. A white face with obvious European or american lineage and a peach dress that completed the look.
The girl turned towards the newest girls and gave each of them a hearty smile.
"I'm Lily, big bros sis. I hope we can all get along"
She spoke in a sweet voice and perfect Japanese. It was kind of them to be considerate of their preferred language but it honestly didn't matter. They all spoke English perfectly fine due to the war. Each of them began to address themselves to the girl one after another. Upon getting each of their ship types Lily began to speak.
"Ohhhhh your all really strong. Big bro says if I want to be an admiral I better start with a destroyer and work my way up. So it'll be a pleasure working with you Murokumo!"
"Hey, wait a minute i never agreed-"
"Admiral!"
Each of the American ship girls interrupted her in a instant salute. Hero and Harder seemed to keep a straight face but Indie was smiling somewhat as a man approached the group of girls.
He was tall, standing up at around 6'5 with short black hair and deep green eyes. A healthy shave accented his square chin and white skin. He was dressed casually but with taste of a white button up shirt and black pants. A build of someone who loves the water and swims often. He walked with a pace that was with purpose and had a face showing relief upon seeing them.
"I'm glad you made it back. I was getting a bit worried when the others arrived before you"
He smiled with relief as the ships stopped saluting, each of them giving their own "I'm back" smiles.
"Nah you got the best team this planet can handle!"
Indie spoke with enthusiasm as the man turned towards the girls. Indie of course glances at Suzuya and catching her stare and grinned.
"Want to compare now?"
She blushed as he approached, instead looking off to the side trying to avoid eye contact.
"He sure can capture a girls heart..."
"I'm glad your all safe. Did any..."
He spoke, slowing his sentence down as he picked his words.
"No one followed us and this is all the Kanmusu that were on board."
Hero spoke up as he sighed with relief. He smiled at her in response which she kept a straight face. But the girls could hear an audible "Hmpm" and the tint of her cheeks grow more pink.
"Thanks Hero. I knew I could count on you."
"Sir!"
He looked back at the girls before rubbing the back of his head and looking at Indie.
"My name is Aden Yukata and I hope we can all get along. Can I trust you to get them decent sleeping quarters?"
"Don't worry just leave it to me!" Indie said with enthusiasm as she began to grab two of the girls and lead them off. The submarines followed in tow as Lily followed the bunch as well. It was early in the morning, most likely she was tired after staying up late waiting on them.
"And not in my room!"
"DRAT!"
"Its nice to meet you Aden!"
Suzuya said as the group departed into the massive transport ship. Houshou bowed respectfully to him when he turned back to her.
"Its quite fin Houshou-san. I'm just trying to help. But I'm sure you must be tired after everything"
"I am... But can you tell me one thing?"
The man looked at her with his full attention while the others left except for Hero.
"Sure, anything"
"Where have we met before?"
AN:
So that is the end of the first chapter. With all the free time I have I will most likely get a decent chunk of this story done, but I have big plans so it might take awhile. I have made a different story(not kantai collection) under a different name(getting to abut 190,000 words and a superb amount of reviews and likes.) However I seem to fall short when it comes to grammar so I'm hoping to clear that up. I wont say it will be perfect but helpful criticism is welcome. If you have any questions that I may be willing to answer go ahead and review or pm me as its always helpful to hear others ideas and thoughts.
As far as the american ship girls, if their personality isn't clear i will clear it up now.
CA-35 Indianapolis (aka Indie)
Stands at about 5'6 with sandy blonde hair in a ponytail that ends slightly below her neck. Freckles adorn her face and she wears a white blouse with a blue Handkerchief around her neck and a skirt ending right before her knees that was light blue. White shoes on her feet and an anchor wrapped around her waist as a sort of belt. She has light blue eyes and is only really skilled in English, somewhat suffering when it comes to other languages.
Her rigging hangs on her lower back and is a white silver color with two triple barreled 8"/55 cannons(one on each side of her) and she is holding another 8"/55 cannon(8 inch, 55 caliber cannon). She has many small AA guns featured around points on her rig as well as a plane catapult on her right side just behind the turret. A radiation symbol can be seen on a canister on her left side right behind the turret. She was not nuclear powered but did carry pieces of the first atomic bomb. This was developed onto her character as a ship girl though and gives her bountiful energy. She is always trying to get a rise out of people but isn't actually a pervert, more a flirt. While powerful with many medals from the war she is a klutz at times and her luck sucks hard. She often wants the attention of her admiral as she has had many and wants one to actually pick and stay with her, making her very clingy in a sense. She fears being alone, having been sunk at sea with no one noticing for over 3 days. She was the single most highest lose of life from a single american ship in world war 2 history.
SS-257 USS Harder
Stands around 4 feet tall with short silver hair wrapped in a blue dew rag. White face, light green eyes and childish appearance like must submarines she wears a blue swim uniform similar to other submarines and has SS-257 on the front of it. Two sets of quad torpedo armaments lay on one thigh each similar to most destroyers and she holds a small submarine of herself that acts as the propulsion device modern divers use.
She is playful but often gets into trouble as she seems to have no fear of bigger things or things renowned as submarine hunters. During the war she sunk dozens of transports and sunk three destroyers with another one being damaged but not confirmed sunk. Her attitude during combat is that of "Hit first, Hit them Harder" as she normally is the first to fire, even onto destroyers as they close in on her. She turns war into a game of "Tag" or "Hide and Seek". Extremely brave in the face or adversity she keeps about a straight face despite her playful demeanor.
And then there is Hero
Standing at about 5'8 with dark black hair that flows down straight ending right at her hip(similar to Akagi but longer). White face with eyes so blue its like a reflection of the ocean and an attitude of someone who wants to get the job done right. Brave and prideful she does not want others to know her true name for reasons not disclosed yet. But her protectiveness of lives is absolute, making many promises to her friends of making it back alive. Even though in reality she knows inside she's just a liar then. She is quite and strict and believes true hero's to be the ones who died for what they believed in. She knows she is skilled but is not arrogant, saying that luck if anything led to her success. She prefers to never be seen in a fight, taking on a more "snipers" point of view.
She wears a dark, nearly black navy button up officer uniform with a medal of honor resting right below her collar. She wears a matching skirt that ends right at her knees and black combat boots. A grey mantle with many holes in it rests on her shoulders and covers her arms and back ending right above her hip. A bandolier with small planes instead of bullets is wrapped around her chest from her left shoulder to her right hip with a small anchor resting on her right hip. She carries her deck which acts as her rifle in a sense over that of a bow. The deck is longer and less wide than her realistic counterpart when it comes to proportions and antennae on the bridge of her deck act as sights for her. The deck starts to deviate towards the back as it becomes the wooden butt of a rifle with a trigger where the rudder would be. A grey beret with an anchor emblem on it finishes the look to this aircraft carrier of unknown identity.