Kobe Naval Base, Japanese Home Islands, IJN Yamato, December, 26th, 1941 Yamamoto:
Shimada: And the reports of American submarines in the waters of the Home Islands ADmiral? Surely they are merely false. We would detect the sounds of their engine with our destroyer screens.
Yamamoto: I do not know what to make of the reports Shimada. With the loss of the bulk of our carrier force, we are limited in options. We must also be concerned about the Army's ambitions, lest they fully remove us from having any say at all.
Koga: Surely His Majesty would not allow such an action! The Army has more than enough power at it is! And without the Navy, there is no resupply for their little adventure in China!
Yamamoto: I intend to seek a audience with the Emperor soon. This matter at hand is very grave indeed and threatens our Empire. I fear that the Americans may choose to strike at the heart of our nation. When and how, I do not know. But when they do, I fear it will be a most deadly strike. Already they have struck against the Germans in North Africa and Europe, with limited strikes against their forces in Russia, strikes against supply lines and factories. If they so choose to the same route to hit the Home Islands, there may be little we can do but buy time.
Koga: But Admiral! Surely we can best them in a decisive battle! Prove to them we have a warrior spirit!
Yamamoto: *slams hand on table* And suffer the same fate as Nagumo?! What heavy ships he had tried to close with the enemy's fleet and was simply wiped out by these super weapons the Americans have! Not only that, but what ships did engage with his, our shells had little effect. I am sure we did damage some ships but their battleships, according to the reports, fired volley after volley of rockets, shells and other weapons before disengaging! And then, the last surviving battleship Nagumo's fleet had simply exploded. No fire was seen, no shell hits were spotted nor torpedos. The Hiei simply exploded in two. A total loss. Whatever weapon the Americans used, is powerful enough to destroy a battleship in one shot! I do not know what god we have angered but surely it is a vengeful one to unleash this Future Americans on us. I do not expect to live through this war but if by some twist of fate I do gentleman, I will serve Japan to the fullest. I live to serve the Emperor and my loyalty to him will never waver.
Shimada: And I as well Admiral. Whatever these Americans throw at us, I will gladly face it.
Koga: The same goes for me as well old friend! The fate of Japan lies in our hands. If the Americans come for the Home Islands, they must pay the price in blood!
Assorted Admirals: Long live Japan!