A/N: Hello again~ Sorry for the week (two week?) hiatus on this story, but we should be back to normal upload schedule now~

A bit of a shorter chapter this time (compared to previous chapters anyway), since it's more of a closing chapter for the third arc. And it includes a list of injured too~

Nevertheless, enjoy~


Whispers of Saturn

Chapter 21: Awakening

Enterprise woke up with a major headache. Not surprising considering everything, but combined with the blinding hospital lights overhead... it was far from pleasant.

''Nn...'' The carrier squinted her eyes shut almost immediately, thin covers shifting around her torso as she weakly tried to roll away from the glaring lights.

It took her eyes several long moments to adjust to the blinding lights, the thrum of chatter muffled by the walls of the hospital, but thankfully there – confirming she was back in the real world. She shifted her elbows beneath her and pushed herself up, nearly groaning when she felt several bones and muscles pop from the movement. Her head throbbed for a brief moment and her vision blurred slightly; mercifully fading not even a few seconds later.

And because of that, she took notice of the woman sitting by her bedside, gazing at her with quiet blue eyes downcast with a myriad of emotions.

''Kaga...?'' Enterprise murmured in groggy confusion. ''Why are...?''

''You're in the hospital. After your battle with Akagi-nee-'' Kaga suddenly cut herself off. ''...after your battle with Akagi.''

Enterprise didn't comment on the sudden lack of honorific. ''I.. see... but, why are you here? No offence, but...''

Kaga dipped her head in acknowledgement. ''I am no longer an enemy combatant.''

Something about the quiet resignation in Kaga's voice drew Enterprise's full attention; frowning at the fox-woman. Kaga breathed a deep sigh, the ice in her downcast eyes cracking apart to reveal all the negativity laying behind them – the sorrow, the grief, the regret; everything the carrier felt in that moment was laid bare.

''I no longer possess my Gift.'' Kaga intoned simply, folding her hands into her kimono sleeves. ''Akagi ripped my Gift out of my soul when I touched her flames. Additionally, Wahr'rot no longer deems me worth having under its command; any attempts of mine to communicate with it have been met with nothing. Helios, however, offered me protection in exchange for my allegiance. Naturally, I accepted it, rather than be caught between three warring gods with none to call my own.''

Enterprise stared in surprise at the white-haired woman, casting a look over her a second time. Her kimono was a clean one but failed to hide the slew of bandages beneath; wrapping tightly across her collarbone and shoulders. As she trailed her gaze down she found that Kaga's legs were also wrapped in a modest amount of bandages, as was her right hand in particular. The hand that touched the flames.

''...I awoke to a field hospital and under guard watch. Thanks to Arizona-san, I was healed of the worst of my injuries, and was able to procure some Crystal Spring water from several stashes I had kept within the base in the event of a Siren invasion. With them I was able to fix up my own wounds... and help Vestal-san heal yours, too.''

''Mine...?''

Kaga nodded slowly. ''Akagi was the one to deal the damage to you. I was an accomplice in that. Therefore, it is only reasonable I supply the means to undo the damage I wrought upon you.''

''You didn't have to...'' Enterprise murmured, scratching her cheek awkwardly. She had heard rumours of how expensive that stuff was; for Kaga to spend it on her, even though she wasn't fully healed... it was flattering.

Kaga merely hummed. ''How are you feeling now, then?''

Enterprise shifted about. ''A bit sore and stiff, but otherwise fine. I can walk it off for the most part. How long was I out for?''

The fox woman glanced aside. ''...I don't know.''

''Ah, well... how long since-''

''I do not mean I don't know how long you were here.'' Kaga cut her off; tone stiff but not harsh. ''Rather... things have been, strange, since our battle.''

Something in her gut twisted. ''...strange?''

''Time is faltering.'' Kaga's remark only amplified the unease in Enterprise's stomach. ''Nightfall ended three hours earlier than it should've. Polar clocks have been speeding up and slowing down at erratic rates; the manual clocks within the hospital are useless. You've either been out for twelve hours, or fifteen. Somewhere in that range.''

''I... see...'' Enterprise took the information in slowly, digesting it. She'd have to ask Helios – later. She didn't feel fully up to dealing with the deity right this second. She was sure it could wait an hour.

Silence fell upon them for a long few moments, neither quite sure how to break it. They had been enemies, then comrades, then rivals, then enemies again, and now back to being comrades. She wanted to ask if there was no hard feelings, but judging by Kaga's downcast eyes there was most certainly more going on than she was saying. However Enterprise wasn't in the mood to pry; if it was between Akagi and Kaga, then it would stay like that.

''I'm glad you're alright, at least.'' Enterprise broke the uneasy silence, offering a slight smile. ''I was worried some more permanent damage happened; at least you're still up and kicking.''

Kaga looked at her in surprise for several long moments – before swiftly glancing aside. ''I... thank you. I'm pleased you are still among the living as well.''

The reminder swept the smile from Enterprise's lips, memories of what just happened in her soul echoing through her mind. Kaga seemed to realise the folly of her words a second later, her cheeks reddening with embarrassment as she uttered a quick, mumbled apology. The silence returned; this time more awkward than uneasy.

''...what about the injured?'' Enterprise deliberately moved the conversation onwards.

Kaga gladly moved off the sensitive topic. ''In various states of injury.''

''Do you have the patient directory?'' Enterprise asked, shifting her gaze down to the bottom of the bed. ''It should be there, Vestal always has the Manjuu update it when new patients come in.''

Kaga stood up from her seat, shifting around to the base of the bed and plucking the aforementioned chart off the metal frame. The clipboard was wooden with a small stack of papers hanging off from the top, each one belonging to a different patient. Considering the small pile that was there...

The fox-woman flipped through a few sheets, paused, then flipped through another few. ''Are you sure you want to-''

''Yes. All of it.'' Enterprise cut her off; tone soft. ''Please.''

Kaga's sapphire eyes flickered up to hers, holding her gaze for a long, long moment.

''Very well then.'' Kaga flipped back to the first page. ''IJN Yamashiro. Status; critical. Multiple skull fractures, severe haemorrhaging and traumatic brain injury. Currently in an induced coma.''

''IJN Yukikaze. Status; critical. Severe haemorrhaging, multiple broken ribs and collapsed left lung due to puncture. Currently intubated with oxygen.''

''IJN Shigure. Status; critical. Severe haemorrhaging due to lateral bisection. Multiple organ failure and internal organ damage, as a result of the bisection.'' Kaga's face only grew grimmer as she kept reading. ''Currently in an induced coma.''

''IJN Maya. Status; critical. Severe haemorrhaging due to numerous lacerations and puncture through the torso, and first degree burns from unknown cause, most likely electrocution. Multiple organ failure as a result of blood loss. Several ribs shattered from multiple impact sites. Currently in an induced coma.''

'Maya...' Enterprise frowned worriedly, intimately recalling Zuikaku receiving the distress message from Yuudachi. To think that her wounds were so extensive...

Kaga, unaware of her internal thoughts, continued in the same even tone. ''IJN Takao. Status; heavily wounded. Haemorrhaging due to numerous lacerations from a bladed object; most likely a sword. Currently under observation.''

''IJN Mikasa. Status; moderately wounded. Multiple incompletely-healed injuries that require attention.'' The fox-woman shot a look up. ''That accounts for everyone from Group B.''

''I see...'' Enterprise murmured. ''Continue.''

Kaga complied, flipping to the next page. ''HMS Dorsetshire. Status; moderately wounded. Minor shrapnel damage and first degree burns induced by shellfire. Spinal relapse caused by overexertion; currently healed and on light duty, to be monitored for changes. No other members of Group C were injured.''

The fox-woman flipped the page, and paused. She glanced up once, and when Enterprise nodded, she began.

''HMS Warspite. Status; moderately wounded. Sustained second degree burns on multiple locations and minor third degree burns on right side. Mostly recovered after treatment; follow-up needed.''

''HMS Sirius. Status; moderately wounded. Sustained second and third degree burns on multiple occasions. Currently under treatment.''

''HMS Edinburgh. Status; heavily wounded. Sustained third degree burns on over a third of her body. Currently in an induced coma.'' Kaga's expression tightened. ''HMS Kent is of the same classification, word-for-word.''

The fox-woman drew a breath. ''HMS Javelin. Status; critical. Sustained fourth, fifth and sixth degree burns to her neck and collarbone. Lack of fluid induced a brain haemorrhage from lack of blood flow. Currently undergoing emergency medical procedures. Chance of regaining consciousness... low.''

''HMS Queen Elizabeth.'' Kaga said the name with deliberate slowness, something almost like pity flashing across her visage. ''Status; deceased. Sustained third, fourth, fifth and sixth degree burns over 80% of her body. Puncture through the chest removed the heart, broke multiple ribs and cauterized major arteries. Death is assumed to have followed shortly after chest puncture.''

That took Enterprise off-guard. ''Queen Elizabeth...?''

''Indeed.'' Kaga lowered the registry briefly. ''I was present when Belfast-san brought in the body. She had been dead long before they arrived; taken off-guard by Taihou apparently.''

Enterprise merely murmured in reply, her mind taking a second to fully process it. Out of everyone that stepped onto the battlefield the last she expected to fall was Elizabeth. Part of her tactical mind told her it made sense that Roon would go for her, being not only a strong warrior but also a figurehead and source of morale; but even so, it just seemed too ridiculous. The woman who brazenly led charges against Siren forces; falling to Taihou of all people... it just seemed impossible.

''Continue.'' Enterprise murmured, shaking her head slowly. She needed to know who else got hurt.

Kaga quietly obliged. ''HMS Illustrious. Status; lightly wounded. Shrapnel damage and first degree burns induced by bombing from Graf Zeppelin. Currently on light duty. Your sister Hornet shares the same diagnosis; I last saw her helping scout the perimeter of the base.''

''That's good...'' Enterprise breathed a quiet sigh. She wasn't surprised Graf Zeppelin retaliated for their intervention; the fact they got away with only minor injuries was a small blessing.

''IJN Kaga. Status; moderately wounded.'' Kaga drawled off her own diagnosis plainly. ''Suffered shrapnel damage from multiple bomb blasts, first degree burns in multiple locations and third degree burns along right arm. Unconsciousness induced likely due to shock and exhaustion. Currently being monitored to determine loyalties.''

Enterprise raised a brow at that last comment; spoken in a vaguely-annoyed tone. ''Monitored?''

''We were enemies up until last night. It shouldn't be a surprise your allies view me with suspicion.'' Kaga replied flatly.

To the fox-woman's disbelief, Enterprise shrugged. ''They're overreacting. You aren't the type to do assassinations; if you wanted to kill me, you'd have done it on the battlefield.''

''I...'' Kaga looked genuinely lost for words for a long moment – shaking off her disbelief as fast as her startled mind would allow. ''Moving on.''

''IJN Zuikaku.'' The words immediately snapped Enterprise to full attention, sitting up in her bed. ''Status; heavily wounded. Suffered second, third and fourth degree burns, shrapnel damage from bombing, and minor lung inflammation from smoke inhalation during evacuation from the battlefield. Currently in recovery.''

Enterprise almost wanted to breathe a sigh of relief. But she knew the list wasn't over yet; and that the rest of her group hadn't been mentioned yet.

''IJN Shoukaku. Status; deceased.'' Kaga's voice became monotone. ''Autopsy incomplete. Current overview reveals immense burns ranging from second to fifth degrees, bordering on sixth degree. Minor shrapnel damage indicates enduring bomb blasts, but burn injuries make up majority of damage. Puncture through the chest cavity is indicative of a strike with a blunt object; fist, according to IJN Zuikaku's account.''

''USS Essex.'' Kaga's monotone voice gave no pause to let the news sink in. ''Status; deceased. Suffered from severe burns and similar puncture through the chest as Shoukaku. Burns range from first degree to sixth degree. Burns likely led to fatality. Further contemplation needed.''

Enterprise sucked in a slow breath, then let it out. She knew Essex was dead – she had released that last little fragment from her soul herself. But it still stung. It wasn't a visceral tearing at her heart like it was when she first witnessed it, nor was it a rending twist when she severed the ethereal chain keeping the fragment attached to her soul. Now it was just a dull, almost numb ache; a reminder that her beloved kouhai was gone forever. But she would live on; she refused to let Essex's sacrifice go in vain.

She took another breath, swallowing the lump in her throat. She needed to get to Zuikaku soon; she was undoubtedly devastated about Shoukaku's death. Despite her own sorrows, she felt obligated to be there. Maybe it was out of some foolish sense of responsibility, that she was at fault for being unable to stop Akagi. Maybe it was just empathy for the upbeat woman she had come to love; she didn't know, but she knew she had to be there as soon as possible.

Before she could suggest that – Kaga suddenly continued.

''USS Enterprise.'' The fox-woman said her name with deliberate weight, blue gaze flickering up to meet hers. ''Status; critical. Suffering from severe burns ranging from first degree to fifth degree. Extreme exhaustion with no identifiable source. Haemorrhaging resulted in temporary organ failure and respiratory failure.''

Kaga lowered the registry, but wasn't done. ''Nobody is authorised to approach aside from Vestal. Attempting to do so will have fatal consequences.''

A sharp shiver lanced up Enterprise's spine. ''What? Why would she... order such a thing...?''

''To make sure nobody got hurt.'' Kaga responded in a distinctly stiff tone. ''Do you recall anything after your battle with myself and... Akagi?''

Enterprise thought about not telling Kaga about it, deeming it personal... but something about Kaga's stilted voice made her worry. ''Helios dragged me into my soul; I... visited old memories. After talking with it for a bit, I got out.''

Kaga peered at her with suspicious sapphire eyes, clearly knowing there was more to the story – but mercifully the fox-woman let it drop. ''I see.''

''Why? What happened while I was out?''

''You were talking, Enterprise. Gibbering nonsense.'' Kaga responded in the same stiff tone. ''You attacked anyone who touched you, barring Vestal. She was the only one who could touch you without suffering for it.''

Enterprise paled. ''I didn't hurt anyone, did I...?''

''...depends on your definition of 'hurt', I suppose.'' Kaga tried to make it sound vague, but upon seeing the silver-haired woman's glare, she relented. ''You grabbed Unicorn by the throat and punched Arizona in the kidney when she tried to hold you down. Both were hurt, but were more startled than truly injured, if that is any consolation. They were up and moving within a few minutes. Shaken, but unharmed.''

''...shit...'' Enterprise flopped back onto the bed, breathing an explosive sigh. Two more people to apologise to for her mistakes.

''...you said I was talking?''

''Indeed.'' Kaga nodded. ''I can't relay what you said, I'm afraid. Ninety-percent of it was nonsensical, however...''

Enterprise leaned up on her elbows. ''However?''

''...you kept repeating one phrase.'' Kaga hesitated for a second. ''You said; 'black sun rising'. You repeated that multiple times, to varying degrees of coherency. You were babbling other nonsense that wasn't any human language I know of.''

''Great...'' Enterprise grumbled. One more thing to add to her list of things to deal with. ''Where's Vestal at anyway?''

''Resting, I believe.'' The fox-woman replied evenly. ''Arizona and Unicorn should still be on duty at the moment; tending to the wounded and trying to get everyone mobile, in the event of an attack.''

Enterprise grimaced at the thought, sitting up. Kaga perked up and shifted closer but Enterprise waved her off, stubbornly refusing the help – gritting her teeth as she stepped onto unsteady feet. She could feel how weak she was. It transcended actual injury and was more like a bone-deep fatigue, her very bones so exhausted by her battle that they just couldn't bear her own weight.

Just as she began to falter Kaga was there, one arm snaking around her back and purposefully letting the taller woman lean on her. Enterprise shot the fox-woman a flat look, but Kaga merely gave a slight shrug.

''I'd rather guide you to your destination than have you fall flat on your face.'' Kaga replied evenly.

Enterprise was about to argue when she thought better of it, settling for a light huff instead. Slowly with Kaga's assistance she shambled over to the door, so familiar to when she woke up in her soul – but this time she made sure to open it slowly, lest she smack someone on the other side. The thought almost made her chuckle.

The halls were much more populated than in her soul; small groups of worried or tearful Ship-Girls wandering up and down or huddled in small groups. The sombre atmosphere seemed to weigh down the air itself, a low murmur constantly fluttering down the halls as dozens of people murmured as one. What drew her attention the most, however, was the stares. It wasn't everybody, but when they saw her pass a not-insignificant amount of Ship-Girls shot her a look – either of awe, or relief.

''...tales of your battle have made the rounds.'' Kaga relayed, and Enterprise realised her confusion must've shown. ''Many have begun comparing you to Queen Elizabeth, due to the magnitude of your battle with Akagi.''

''Oh...'' Enterprise wasn't sure how to feel about that. On one hand, it was flattering so many saw her as equal to the infamous, and now-deceased Iron Queen. On the other hand, she wasn't sure she deserved such reverence.

At her murmured request Kaga helped guide her further down the halls, heading towards Zuikaku's room. Enterprise caught sight of Arizona and wanted to go to her, but the Battleship only offered a tired, forgiving smile, as if reading her mind. Then she was gone without a single word, rushing off down the hall with a small order of Manjuu hopping after her, collectively carrying a tray of food for their inevitable patient.

''We're here.'' Kaga's even voice stirred Enterprise from her wandering thoughts, shifting her attention forward – and onto the door two paces away.

''Mm, thanks.'' Enterprise hummed softly, grasping the handle.

With a soft click the door creaked open, the lit room contrasting the sombre mood within, so strong it was nearly palpable. A single bed was present, and laying down on it was Zuikaku, staring at the ceiling with a distant gaze. Her expression was painfully blank, and what little emotion there was one of sorrow; a quiet, quivering sadness.

Zuikaku's gaze flickered over to her on instinct, and their eyes met.

''Hey.'' Zuikaku croaked.

''Hey.'' Enterprise whispered back, leaning on the door-frame for support.

Zuikaku briefly stared past her, meeting Kaga's neutral gaze – before the two Sakura carriers traded a silent nod, and Kaga backed off; leaning against the wall just outside the door to give them some modicum of privacy.

Enterprise appreciated it, stumbling inside and shutting the door behind her. She was slowly getting some strength back in her legs, but the aching pins-and-needles sensation had yet to fully fade; forcing her to lean on the right wall as she hobbled over to Zuikaku's bedside.

''I...'' Enterprise wanted to ask so many things – how was she, what happened after she lost consciousness, what happened while she was fighting Akagi – but instead settled on something much simpler. ''Are you alright?''

Zuikaku huffed something that almost sounded like a snort. ''No... no, I'm not.''

The silver-haired carrier smiled weakly, gently easing herself down onto the side of Zuikaku's bed. It creaked beneath their combined weight but held strong, the metal cold to the touch. For a long minute the hospital room was utterly silent, the two not speaking a single word. They met eyes, looked away, repeat. The only sounds that echoed in the sombre silence was that from the other rooms and the halls; the quiet murmur adding a morose background tune to the hospital room.

''...I'm sorry.''

''Huh?'' Zuikaku's brown eyes locked with Enterprise's. ''What for?''

''Losing.'' Enterprise's single word stilled Zuikaku; the carrier's eyes widening. ''I had been so wrapped up with Essex, that I never thought about you and Shoukaku... if I had just listened to her, if I had moved to help you two, maybe Shoukaku would still be alive.''

''Enterprise...''

The silver-haired woman gripped the metal bed frame, feeling the polished steel begin to crumple beneath her tight grip. ''Even then, even after getting a power-up from Helios... I still couldn't kill Akagi in the end. She got away; she's still out there... if I had just called on Helios sooner, tried to use it to fight back Wahr'rot instead of trying to fight it myself...! If I...!''

''I don't blame you, Enterprise.'' Zuikaku mumbled quietly.

The crane's words only made Enterprise grip the bed harder, making it audibly groan as it was dented inwards. Something strong bubbled in her throat and she held it back with a hitched breath, her shoulders forming a rigid line.

''I know... I know...'' The Grey Ghost looked away, suppressed sorrow and self-loathing boiling inside her. ''But I blame myself. It was my fault – I know better than to just sit and give an enemy time to fight! I know better than to give Akagi, Wahr'rot – whoever time to plan! I could've gotten us out of there if I tried; but I fought Akagi instead! I know better than this!''

''...E-Enterprise...''

The softly-spoken, quivering voice instantly halted her self-directed rant – and when Enterprise slid her gaze to the side, she realised Zuikaku was crying. A pang of guilt hit her like a bag of bricks and she felt bad, mouth opening to utter an apology; only for Zuikaku to sit up, and throw her arms around her.

''D-Don't...'' The brunette carrier's words were muffled by her shoulder. ''I... I-I don't want to see you sad... so please...''

''Zuikaku...'' Enterprise murmured, sliding an arm around her beloved – and hugged her close. ''I'm sorry...''

Zuikaku didn't formulate a coherent response – finally breaking down into the tears she had held back since she first woke up, her muffled sobs echoing in the otherwise empty hospital room.

X-x-X

''Perhaps... this is what it feels like, to cast eyes upon the final day, before the apocalypse arrives.''

Z46's idle murmur carried easily through the quiet room within the old shrine, her tone musing and introspective. The open window carried in a cool wind that brushed against her face, pleasing her senses as she slid her gaze over the horizon. An eternally-expansive forest of green – and a distinctly-gold skyline. The clouds seemed to hang lower than normal, sparkling like they were coated in glitter and the sun a bright gold shade, the strange hue creating an unnatural haze over the horizon.

''Please don't say that, it's kinda scary...''

Z46 blinked, tearing her gaze off the horizon – and instead across the room, to where U-556 was sitting. The blue-haired Submarine pouted at her, abandoning her small notepad and pencils in favour of staring at her. The girl had taken to drawing over the past few days to alleviate the boredom, and while Z46 liked to think she was patient, even she had to admit that being cooped up in the shrine biding their time was beginning to wear on her nerves.

Especially when Akagi had crawled her way back to the shrine in such a bloodied state, said absolutely nothing, and secluded herself to the older, more worn-down half of the shrine. Wisely the Ironblood group didn't go out of their way to speak with her unless absolutely necessary; there was something distinctly 'off' about Akagi. And considering the complete lack of Kaga, it was safe to say that the Kitsune wasn't in the mood to be interacted with.

''Apologies.'' Z46 murmured lightly, shifting to face her equally-short companion – daintily hopping off the stool she had used to see out the window. One of the disadvantages of being so short. ''I was merely thinking aloud.''

U-556 pouted at her for a second longer; before sighing. ''Ahh... it's fine. Just don't say it again, please...''

''Affirmative.'' Z46 dipped her head in a slight nod. ''On another note, have your nightmares been abating in recent days?''

''Mm.'' U-556's response was quiet, but reassuring. ''Thanks for asking.''

Z46 merely hummed in reply, privately glad that her comrade was getting better. Truthfully she had no business prying, but with little else to do she sought to learn the motivations of her companions, to see what made them follow Bismarck so loyally. It was more a curiosity than anything serious; wondering what could make them follow their leader with only a rousing speech needed. She herself followed Bismarck out of logic; to earn more power to protect her beloved Ayanami with.

Interestingly, they were not all the same in that regard. Graf Zeppelin pursued power to see how far it would take her, to see what might become of her if she followed her natural instinct; even if it meant tearing heaven and hell asunder. Admiral Graf Spee did it to hopefully bring Roon's end, deeming her a threat that needed to be eliminated more than anything else – but Z46 knew there was more to the story. If she was to hypothesise, she would guess Ajax had something to do with it. The two had always been close, and considering how Graf Spee brought the question up to Bismarck about potentially taking prisoners instead of killing everyone... it wasn't impossible to connect the dots.

U-556 did so because of her obvious attachment to the Battleship, and in turn Bismarck's main reasoning was to help heal U-556's mental wounds, caused directly by I-56. Likewise Prinz Eugen followed because she felt obligated, unwilling to abandon Bismarck's side even if she had yet to attain a Gift of her own; fighting even if it meant being outmatched several times over. It was hard to win a naval battle when you were against beams of light and surges of darkness, after all.

However, the one who drew Z46's attention the most – was Jean Bart. The woman who refused to share her reasons, even when everyone else did.

''Hm...'' Z46 hummed lightly, giving U-556 a silent nod before departing the room.

She wasn't sure what the Vichya woman's intentions were. Clearly it was for power, but why? To surpass someone? To defeat someone back at the base, or perhaps Roon? She wasn't the hero type, and despite her already impressive power she always craved more; that much Z46 knew. So what could drive Jean Bart to join them?

She didn't know, but whatever it was... she hoped it wouldn't come back to bite them.

The Destroyer's feet carried her down the hall towards what was deemed the 'capital room' – Bismarck's office, in other words. Mostly because it was a fairly spacious room that they could hold meetings in without having to squish together or all take positions awkwardly around the room. Bismarck had spent most of her time in there or outside, near-constantly practising her Gift. Z46 could appreciate such dedication.

Her footfalls slowed as she neared the old wooden door, the rice-paper material thin enough that she could barely make out Bismarck's shadow on the other side, thanks to the waning sunlight. She rapped her knuckles on the frame and waited patiently, hearing the distinct sound of cloth fluttering – before the sliding door opened with a low hiss, the wood clicking against the frame.

''Come in.''

Z46 obliged, dipping her head in a slight nod and entering. Bismarck walked back over to the old table they had dragged into the room, taking a seat in one of the worn wooden chairs next to it. Not the nicest of accommodations, but they had to make do with what they had. They certainly weren't going to go to the nearest town to buy some furniture.

''What brings you here?'' Bismarck's voice snapped Z46 out of her musings, and prompted her to reply.

''When are we leaving?''

''Soon.'' Bismarck replied simply. ''Wahr'rot has been getting impatient, since Akagi is apparently refusing to fight, and I have refused to fight on such uneven terms. As I said during the last meeting, I will not lead us into a battle that has Roon at a considerable advantage.''

''I see.'' Z46 dipped her head. ''Are there any methods we can utilise to obtain the advantage?''

Bismarck shook her head, blonde hair swaying. ''No. Roon is in Animaus' territory, so she'll automatically been stronger than us by way of blocking out our connection to Wahr'rot. Hypothetically, if we were to wait long enough, Wahr'rot could provide us enough power that we could simply overwhelm Roon – but as I said, Wahr'rot is getting impatient. And I worry it might do something rash if we delay for more than a day.''

Z46 nodded again. She didn't believe Wahr'rot to be wholly benevolent; and she hadn't even contacted the deity. All of that was done through either Akagi, or Bismarck. Only those two could interact with Wahr'rot directly.

The twisted, almost parasitic red lines across Akagi's skin also fuelled her distrust of the deity.

''Understood.'' Z46 intoned. ''Presuming we are heading out tomorrow. Our plans?''

''Head west to Saffrona and engage Roon. Graf Zeppelin will provide support from afar with both her planes and her manifested creatures, whilst yourself and I will draw Roon's main focus. Graf Spee and Prinz Eugen will be in range to support, but I cannot anticipate how much effect they will have against Roon.''

''And Jean Bart?''

''...she has agreed to help put Roon down. However, I cannot force her if she decides otherwise.'' Bismarck replied heavily, glancing at the door. ''You are our main trump card against Roon. Do not forget this, Z46.''

Z46's golden gaze hardened. ''I am aware. And I will not disappoint your expectations, Bismarck.''

The blonde Battleship breathed a long, deep sigh. ''I know you won't... I only hope it'll be enough.''

To that, Z46 could only hum in agreement.

X-x-X

The sea was a deep golden hue, reflecting the mirage-like sun hanging over it.

Even though it was nearly noon, the sun still hung low in the sky like it was evening. The world was slowly descending into chaos, frightened by the unmoving sun that refused to turn, and the sun that glowed an unnatural gold hue. Time slowed and sped up, racing ahead an hour in minutes, only to take an hour to pass a minute.

Of course, to a timeless being such as her, none of this phased her in the slightest. Let the whole planet worry about fickle things like time – she had more important things to do.

''Haah...'' The woman sighed, resting her cheek against her fist. ''Let's try this again...''

Lazily, the woman raised her arm – and a wide grin split her face, unnatural in size and brimming with psychotic glee.

''All ships... full speed to port~!''

With a wordless, droning symphony, the fleet of midnight ships obeyed – the woman's mad cackles ringing over the golden horizon, her long ponytail fluttering in the wind.

X-x-X

''What happened here...?''

Enterprise's soft murmur was lost amidst the gently-blowing wind, yet Kaga heard it easily. The two carriers slowly walked through the main part of the base, their eyes wandering over the destruction littering the place. Most windows were shattered into tiny fragments and still being swept up, part of the command building had collapsed inwards, several trees had been knocked over and even some of the seawall had crumbled down into the ocean.

''Queen Elizabeth's battle, and yours.'' Kaga informed simply, leading the dazed carrier towards the Royal Navy dorms. ''The shockwaves could be felt miles away, from what I was told. The damage is more severe closer to the epicentre up north; the entire landscape is now jagged and unstable. Parts are still collapsing as we speak – Mikasa guessed that it would take days for the continent to settle.''

''Incredible...'' Enterprise murmured, swallowing. To know that she had helped caused such far-reaching destruction – it gave her hope, that it might be enough to take Roon down... and fear of what it could mean, if she was to lose control.

'Black sun rising...' Enterprise remembered what Kaga told her. 'What does that mean...?'

Lost in thought she didn't pay much attention to her surroundings, trusting Kaga to lead her towards the meeting. She still felt like crap but it was leagues better than she could've been, and far better than she felt when she was inside her own soul. The strangely gold-hued sky stirred something inside her chest, her instincts telling her of how unnatural the horizon looked, but she pushed it from her mind. She wasn't in the position to change it, and the meeting came first.

She could ponder the seeming degradation of time later.

Enterprise shook her head, privately chastising herself for thinking something so grim. She glanced ahead as the front of the Royal Navy dorms came into view; with Dorsetshire leaning against the glass wall next to the door. The brunette cruiser glanced up at them as they approached, almost scrutinising them, before dropping her gaze again and going back to whatever it was she was doing. Guard duty? Since when had that been necessary?

Dispelling the thought from her mind Enterprise followed after Kaga, the two carriers slipping inside the Royal Navy dorms. The open main lobby was staffed by a few Ship-Girls milling around or discussing in low, worried tones, but it was sparsely populated. They paid the two no mind as they went for the large stairs at the far end of the room, ascending to the second floor and down the hall to the meeting room – the largest room in the building, reserved solely for meetings with Royal Navy diplomats. Considering the damage to the command building, it wasn't a surprise this room was used as a replacement.

Knock-knock-knock~

Kaga's knuckles rapped off the fine chocolate wood doors, and less than a few seconds later the right door slid open; revealing Illustrious on the other side.

The white-haired woman gained a warm smile on her gentle visage and she beckoned them inside. ''Welcome. It's good to see you're up and about, Enterprise.''

''Mm.'' The carrier replied with a firm nod. ''Is everyone else here?''

''Indeed.'' Illustrious bobbed her head, giving Kaga a similarly warm smile. ''You may sit in on the meeting as well, Miss Kaga.''

Kaga dipped her head politely and uttered a quiet thanks, the three carriers slowly making their way towards the centre of the room. The walls were a deep brown with tall windows, letting in plenty of golden light that spilled in across the burgundy carpet. Two gold-laced couches were situated opposite each other with a table between them; two additional armchairs on either side of the table for a total of four.

Hood was sitting in one of the armchairs with a cup of tea in hand, looking for all intents and purposes like this was the usual run-of-the-mill Siren nonsense. Mikasa was stood by one of the windows, gazing out at the golden horizon with a troubled frown on her face, bandages peeking out from beneath her clearly-fresh uniform. Belfast stood off to the side next to a metal cart, clearly preparing some tea and biscuits. Warspite was next to her, murmuring in low tones and discreetly leaning on the metal cart for support, her own wounds still visible beneath the layers of bandages covering her exposed skin.

''Yo.'' Washington waved a hand in lazy greeting, lounging on the couch opposite the windows.

''Mm.'' Enterprise hummed in quiet greeting. ''How has things been since I was out?''

''Eh, could be worse.'' Washington's casual reply didn't ease Enterprise's concerns in the slightest. ''The shockwaves and injured caused some panic amongst the weaker girls, since they thought Roon was marching right up to our doorstep, but most of 'em have calmed down now and are doing patrols; just keeping an eye on things.''

The carrier breathed a quiet sigh. ''That's good to hear. At least they're occupying themselves.''

''Ahh.'' Washington agreed, tilting her head back. ''Idle hands are demonic hands; or whatever the hell the saying is.''

''Idle hands are the Devil's workshop, is the quote you're looking for.'' Kaga evenly interjected.

Washington slid her gaze over to the Sakura woman. Her lazy expression didn't change, but the familiar warmth in her eyes dimmed.

''I imagine you'd know a lot about Devils, huh?'' The Battleship's remark was spoken evenly, yet there was a displeased edge to her tongue – something not quite, but not far off, hostility. ''Better the Devil you know, than the Devil you don't, after all.''

Kaga's expression tightened; doubly so because of how several others in the room glanced over, clearly sensing the tension. It wasn't born out of fear – some of the most powerful Ship-Girls in existence were gathered into one room, after all – but rather a wariness, cautious of what Kaga might respond with. Cautious of her.

In that instant Enterprise realised why Kaga had been following her around dutifully. It wasn't solely out of a sense of atonement, of repaying for her mistakes. It was for her own protection. She had been an enemy up until last night, and considering she was the sister of Wahr'rot host, she would undoubtedly be treated with neutrality at best and hostility at worst. She was a traitor not just to those on the base, but her own country after declining the declaration of war. She was completely, utterly-

-alone.

It was at moment Enterprise felt something she never expected to feel for the white-haired Kitsune. Pity.

''That's enough, Washington.'' Enterprise intoned, earning her companion's eye. ''She's no longer our enemy; we can't afford to stir around our grievances when Roon is still out there, killing as we speak. Now is the time to work together, to make our enemies into friends; to muster everyone we can against Roon, and only Roon.''

''...hmph.'' Washington huffed, a light smirk crossing her lips. ''Fine, fine, I'll back off...''

''Good.'' Enterprise nodded, her gaze flickering over to the window. ''Also... I noticed Dorsetshire standing by the doors, almost like she was on guard duty. Did something happen?''

''Indeed.'' Mikasa spoke for the first time, drawing Enterprise's full attention. ''Apparently she and the Cleveland sisters came to a rather disturbing conclusion.''

''And that would be...?''

Mikasa glanced over at her, a grimace twisting at her expression. ''That we have a traitor in our midst. Someone apparently stole from Akashi's workshop, likely after it had been locked down, and gave the experimental weapon to San Diego. A flashbang of sorts; nothing lethal, but certainly dangerous.''

''And if they've taken one thing, what else have they taken?'' Washington added her two cents, running a hand through her hair irritably. ''How the hell they did it is beyond me. Everyone who could've gone in is accounted for.''

''Hm...'' Enterprise rubbed her chin in thought. ''Perhaps a Destroyer, due to their smaller size and enhanced speed?''

''All are accounted for.'' Mikasa shook her head. ''Few Destroyers were even posted in the first place, due to their terrible curiosity. The closest any got would be Aulick-san, who ran lunch deliveries to the guards-''

''Aulick?'' Enterprise cut her off, disturbed.

Mikasa paused also; a frown creasing her brow. ''Indeed...?''

''That...'' Something in Enterprise's gut turned. ''When did you see Aulick last?''

''I can't say myself, I didn't think to keep track...'' Mikasa's tone was worried now.

Belfast shifted to face them. ''I saw her last night, before Queen Elizabeth and our group were sent out. She was carrying some boxes back towards the Eagle Union dormitory on Miss Washington's orders.''

''Hah?'' The Battleship sat up, eyes narrowing. ''I didn't order anything. I haven't spoken to Aulick in over a week.''

Enterprise shook her head, the gut feeling in her stomach growing worse. ''That... that can't be possible.''

A hand laid itself on her shoulder, instinctively making Enterprise flinch. Kaga's hand. ''Why?''

''...because Aulick is dead, and has been for days now, if not a week.''

Her words carried easily in the sudden, shocked silence. All eyes were on her, and not a single person had a hint of recognition on their faces. Clearly Vestal hadn't gotten around to letting that bit of news slip, what with dealing with the influx of critical patients and obviously not deeming it a high priority.

Washington opened her mouth, lips formulating a startled question – when the meeting room doors slammed open.

Enterprise jumped, whirling around to face the intruder – Cleveland. Behind the carrier Washington snapped to her feet, her brain jolting back to focus.

''Cleveland?! What the hell-!''

''We got a big problem...!'' Cleveland cut the Battleship off; panting for air, and with a face full of dread.

''A Siren fleet is sailing right for us!''

[END]


A/N: Hoho~ You didn't think I forgot about the Sirens, did'ya~? After all, not all of them were shown to be killed by Roon~

See you all next time in Chapter 22: Siren Hymn~

And a little preview to tease you with:
The Siren landed in front of her, one hand curling in inwards and her torso tilting forwards in a mocking bow.

Enterprise froze, staring straight into gleeful gold eyes that stared right back at her.

It was her. Purifier.

The Siren who sunk Yorktown.