The smell of saltwater on the morning breeze filled the room as Enterprise stared out at the rising sun beyond the harbor. She inhaled deeply, letting the aroma fill her like a glass of water before letting out a long breath. Giving a momentary rub of her forehead with her fingers, she donned her cap and adjusted the hem of her collar. The familiar gentle tap tap tap of heals signaled the arrival of her unofficial personal maid.
"Come in."
There was a brief pause at the door before it swung open to reveal Belfast, light cruiser and head of the Royal Navy Maid Core looking more than a little stunned.
"Something the matter?" Enterprise asked with a cheeky smile.
"No. This quite the surprise, seeing you up and about before I arrive." Belfast stated with a blink as she entered the room. She glanced around, her eyes drifting from the cleared-off desk, a swept floor, and a perfectly made bed. "If I didn't know any better I'd think you were trying to put me out of a job."
Enterprise gave a light chuckle, turning to face her confidant. "Don't worry. I promise not to make this a habit."
The two ships shared a momentary chuckle before Belfast stepped closer to Enterprise and began adjusting her tie. "I trust you slept last night, rather than staying up worrying about the day's events?"
By now, Enterprise knew Belfast well enough to distinguish between a harmless question and an outright warning. Right now, Belfast was somewhere in between.
"I slept well enough." Enterprise did her best to hide a treacherous yawn. "Perhaps it's just my nerves getting to me though."
Belfast finished her fiddling and stepped back to admire her handiwork. "I suppose that's to be expected, what with such a meeting that hasn't been had since the factions split."
Enterprise nodded and glanced out the window as Belfast moves to fix her drapes. That maid could find something to fix out of anything with those sharp violet eyes of hers.
"Unfortunately," Belfast continued. "I don't think that the day's events will allow for much time to schedule a nap for you later. But if events proceed smoother than expected, then perhaps there might be a short window before supper."
This was another thing about the maid that continued to perplex Enterprise. There were times when she wasn't certain if Belfast were joking or being sincere.
Deciding to test her, Enterprise came up with a quick retort. "Nothing an extra strong cup of columbia's best won't help."
Belfast turned with a half frown on her lips. "I strongly recommend tea Miss Enterprise. Coffee will only upset your stomach. Coupled with the likely stress brought on by the day's coming events, it won't make for a pleasant state to be in.
Okay, definitely not a joke.
Enterprise smiled despite herself. "Okay Belfast. I yield to your advice."
"A wise choice Miss." Belfast gave a shallow bow, a cute little victorious smirk on her lips. "Seeing as it's a special occasion for you to be early, shall we be off to meet the others?"
Enterprise merely nodded, still smiling as she strode past Belfast, into the hallway, stopping for just a moment to close the door behind the maid as she followed. Belfast gave a soft hum as she watched with mirth twinkling in her eyes. Enterprise returned the look before continuing on their way.
The morning air was crisp with a gentle breeze carrying the scents of the base's 'best blues'. In the past several days, the girls of the Eagle Union and Royal Navy had banded together to spruce up the base. Streets were scrubbed, fresh paint applied where needed. Even the Sakura Empire on site lent their aid in trimming, weeding and gardening, making the gardens look extra crisp and refined. Enterprise smiled, remembering how well some of the Royal Navy and Sakura Empire girls worked together in that aspect, giving each other advice and exchanging thoughts on botanical philosophy and presentation.
"It's really quite something isn't it?" Belfast spoke up. She had been gazing around as well and breathed in the scent of fresh cut grass and wood from neatly trimmed tree branches. She let out a satisfied sigh and waved at a trio of cruisers running by for their morning exercise. The trio waved back, bidding the two of them a good morning before continuing on their way. "It makes me wonder how much this base will change with our allies sharing it with us."
Enterprise didn't have an answer to that but nodded in agreement. If everyone got along as well as Laffey, Ayanami, Javelin and Z23, then there was no limit to what could happen.
The rest of the walk to the pier was held in silence, both ships taking in the sights all around them as though seeing their home for the first time. Before long, Enterprise felt a smile pull at the corners of her mouth as she appreciated the beauty of it all.
She let her fingers brush against a rosebud, relishing in the silky texture.
The feeling of being watched brought Enterprise's senses up to full alert. Her head snapped around only to find Belfast watching her with that smile that made her nigh impossible to read. Before she could inquire from the maid, Belfast brought a finger to her lips, smiling wider as she shook her head.
Enterprise felt her cheeks warm just a little and her heart gave a slight flutter. This maid was going to get her sunk one day. She just knew it.
The rows of heads and lawns gave way to damp concrete as the two arrived at the piers thirty minutes later. The gentle slap of the water against the docks tickled Enterprise's ears as she and Belfast gazed out at the ocean across the bay. The sky was cloudless and the water was calm and clear. Ideal sailing weather. For a moment, Enterprise contemplated a leisurely cruise around the island on her ship to enjoy the tranquility. But a glance at her watch reminded her that it would have to wait for another time.
"Well this is certainly a surprise." A familiar voice spoke up.
Enterprise and Belfast turned to see Queen Elizabeth approaching, flanked by Prince of Wales and Warspite to either side.
"Did you have to arrive extra early Belfast?" Elizabeth jested, flashing the maid a wink.
Belfast only gave a shake of her head. "Not at all Your Majesty. Our little Enterprise got up and ready all on her own before I even arrived."
"That certainly is a surprise." Hornet piped up, as she strolled up behind the royals.
Beside her Hammann waved in greeting, grinning as well. "Does this mean Enty is learning a new level of responsibility?" She shot Enterprise a cheeky grin.
Hornet laughed. "My big sister is growing up so fast."
The group all shared a round of laughter except for Enterprise who only rolled her eyes. "I never imagined that past foolishness could be such a blight on my record."
Hornet stopped laughing and approached to throw an arm around her sister's neck. "Come on. A girl could have a lot worse on her record. Besides, it's not like we're taking away your battle stars."
Enterprise's expression darkened. "Try it and see what happens." She growled and raised a finger just under Hornet's nose as though it were a gun barrel. Everyone's posture immediately grew tense. All except for Belfast.
Hornet swallowed hard and was about to speak when she let out a pained whine as Enterprise pinched her nose between her fingers. "Gotcha." The older carrier said with a smirk before releasing the blonde and pushing her cowboy hat down over her face.
"You're rather scary when you're being funny." Warspite stated with a nervous smirk. "I'm not sure which the sirens should fear more. Your combat prowess or your sense of humor."
"I believe a good balance of both with serve her just fine." Belfast said with a soft giggle.
"Aren't we lucky." Hornet grumbled as she crinkled her nose and set her hat on straight.
The group made small talk regarding the upcoming meeting as the sun rose higher in the morning sky. Enterprise was pleased to hear that she was not the only one who had felt anxious, but the conversation amongst friends, and family helped ease the tension. That is until Hammann flicked one of her feline ears and turned to stare out across the water, squinting into the distance.
"I think I see them." She announced, shielding her eyes from the sun's glare.
"Punctual as always." Elizabeth stated as she looked down at a pocket watch Warspite held up for her to inspect. Beside them, Prince of Wales stared hard at the ships approaching, her fingers rubbing the pommel of her sword.
Warspite noticed the tense look in the younger battleship's eyes and placed a hand on her arm. Wales jolted, startled out of her thoughts and nearly drew her sword until she looked down at her senior. Warspite did not look alarmed by the gesture or even disappointed. Instead, she gave a slow shake of her head with a look of understanding in her violet eyes.
"No one is forcing you to do this Wales." Elizabeth stated as she turned to face her. "You still have time to back out if you so wish."
Wales seemed to think about that for a moment, glancing from the queen to the approaching ship formations. Her eyes narrowed as though she were settling on a target. "I'm fine your majesty." She said at last with a determined shake of her head. "I will not cower for it will only bring shame to the Royal Navy."
Warspite gave an almost manly huff at that. "There's no shame in gathering yourself either to come back and fight another time either." She rested her hands on the pommel of her own sword and took on her normal stance of a knight gazing ahead to the horizon. "Do not fight when you cannot win. Do not always rely on luck being in your favor if you feel you are unready." She glanced back at Prince of Wales out of the corner of her eye. "One must always be at their strongest when facing down any challenge."
Silence fell upon the group as the two battleships stared hard into each other's eyes, neither budging in their contest of silent resolve. However, Wales blinked first, though Enterprise noted it was more out of necessity than submission.
"I shall be sure to remember your advice moving forward." Wales stated and drew in a deep breath before letting out a sigh.
Another few minutes passed in silence as the ships approached, growing larger by the second.
"It's interesting to see how different their approaches are." Elizabeth pointed out, stepping up beside Enterprise. "Despite being allies, you can see just by their formation how different their mindsets are."
Enterprise studied the two formations. Leading the way was a battleship of the Iron Blood with two heavy cruisers flanking it, resembling that of a spearhead. Just off their starboard quarter sailed four very familiar aircraft carriers of the Sakura Empire, lined two abreast and two deep.
"Iron Blood valuing the strongest amongst them to lead while Sakura Empire follows those who came before in equal measure." Belfast stated. "Makes us seem almost lackluster in a way."
"We're not so locked into such rigid thinking." Wales countered. "We know the command structure and we trust each other to do our best." Her eyes narrowed. "We have no reason to command respect. We earn it."
Hammann and Hornet shared an anxious glance before sidling up to Enterprise. "Is Wales going to be okay?" Hammann asked in a near whisper. "I've ever heard of her being so strung up before."
Enterprise shot her a glance out of the corner of her eye. "It's Royal Navy and Iron Blood business. It's for them to work out."
"I'd agree with that normally." Hornet whispered in. "But is this really the best time for old bad blood to be showing?"
Hammann nodded in agreement. "Especially if we're all supposed to be allies. Isn't it a bit risky to not intervene?"
Enterprise and her two companions glanced over at Wales who looked distinctly unimpressed with their gossiping but said nothing. Enterprise gave her a questioning tilt of the head to which Wales inhaled before letting out a deep sigh and a slow blink.
"She'll keep it together." Enterprise replied, returning to watch as the two formations slowed as they came into port. Hornet and Hammann craned their necks up with no small amount of trepidation as the Iron Blood battleship came to a stop. Even Enterprise had never seen an Iron Blood vessel up close like this. She gave a slight shake of her head as her thoughts drifted towards combat and how she might take it out.
No. She had learned her lesson, and needed to stop reverting to old habits.
As the Sakura Empire carriers slowed to a halt on the opposite side of the dock, a large figure appeared from the Iron Blood battleship. The woman glanced at the carriers across the way before giving a mighty leap, followed immediately by three others. All four landed with barely a sound onto the concrete docks and Enterprise found herself largely impressed with the elegance when compared to the hulking ships the girls represented.
After a moment, Enterprise's brow furrowed and she glanced down the pier at the Iron Blood warships. One…Two and three… Why are there four?
"Guten tag Azoor Lenn." The woman leading the procession greeted. Her voice was almost husky for how thick her accent was.
"Greetings and good morning to you Lord Bismarck of Iron Blood." Elizabeth spoke, stepping up beside Enterprise. "We trust your journey was a pleasant one?"
"Ja." Bismarck nodded, pausing to shake hands with Enterprise and give a short bow to Queen Elizabeth. "Allow me to formally introduce to you my subordinates." She gestured towards the three other girls, two of which Enterprise recalled. The third was much shorter, looking almost like a destroyer for her size. "I present Heavy Cruisers, Prinz Eugen and her sister Admiral Hipper."
Prinz Eugen held a casual stance, one arm cupping the opposite elbow under her bust whilst tapping her cheek with a finger. She flashed Belfast and Enterprise a wink before letting her eyes drift about the gathering, inspecting the faces before her.
Admiral Hipper, much shorter in stature than her sister stood at parade rest, looking as though she smelled something unpleasant but gave a single curt nod.
"And my sister U-556." Bismarck finished as the small blue-haired girl stepped forward standing proudly beside her.
The presence of the little U-boat suddenly made sense as to why she had only spotted three vessels.
Unlike Eugen and Hipper who sported the standard Iron Blood uniforms, U-556 was dressed in an elegant black and white dress with crimson accents and pump shoes that shone like black pearls in the sunlight.
The sub eyed Enterprise, looking surprisingly excited. "You are Grey Ghost, yes?"
Enterprise stammered for a breath, not having expected such a greeting. "That's right."
U-556 stepped forward and gave a salute and offered a tiny hand out. "It is an honor to meet you. I have heard about you from Prinz Eugen and I have to say it is a privilege to meet someone who can come close to matching Lord Bismarck in strength."
Enterprise blinked several times. Had the little U-boat just given her a backhanded compliment with her greeting? Beside her, Hornet and Hammann both bristled at the U-boat's supposedly childish words.
"I thank you for the compliment." Enterprise replied, taking the tiny hand and giving it a firm shake, leaving U-556 looking bewildered as though she had just stuck her hand into something unexpected and was trying to decide how she felt about it.
Before Enterprise could ask if something was wrong, U-556 turned her attention to the Royal Navy members, giving curt nods to Elizabeth and Warspite. But when the U-boat's eyes fell upon Prince of Wales, her expression soured. "You!" She pointed a punishing finger up at Wales whose jaw clenched in response. "Don't think that because Lord Bismarck is gracing you with her presence means you can take advantage of her!"
Wale's eyes went wide, and her face reddened with indignation.
A soft clap from the Iron Blood battleship snapped U-556's attention around to see Bismarck giving her a soft disapproving frown. "U-556, what did I say about antagonizing our former rivals?"
"But Lord Bismarck…" U-556 began to wine but stopped when one of the battleship's brows arched ever so slightly. U-556 swallowed hard and straightened up to attention. "My apologies my Lord." She gave Wales one last look, trying to put on a glare, but only managing to look like a pouting child.
"My apologies." Bismarck said gently as U-556 took up position beside her. "My sister is still getting used to the idea of this…alliance." Her steely blue eyes met Wale's own scarlet orbs. "I hope you may find it in your heart to forgive any disrespect she may have given."
Wales' nostrils flared before she gave a very slow blink, straightening her posture. "It is quite alright. Old habits die hard."
Bismarck studied her for a second before nodding. She took a couple steps forward, arm raised to shake. The gesture was interrupted as Enterprise glanced to the side as the soft clop of footsteps reached their ears. Bismarck stopped and turned, squaring her shoulders as the four representatives of the Sakura Empire approached, Prince of Wales all but forgotten.
Leading the way, much to Enterprise's surprise, were the sisters Shoukaku and Zuikaku, followed by Akagi and Kaga. The four women descended a staircase of shimmering red and blue stars which Enterprise knew all too well were compact manifestations of the aircraft their ships possessed. Clearly the little things could be used for other purposes as well.
Zuikaku seemed to notice her staring and smiled eagerly. Upon all four touching down on the dock, she and her sister dispelled the staircase with a trail of celebratory sparks. "You're looking well." The younger Fifth Division carrier greeted as they came to a stop beside the Iron Bloods and bowed respectfully to all of them.
"You too." Enterprise returned the smile.
"Nagato sends her best regards as well." Shoukaku piped up sweetly.
Enterprise nodded in affirmation, extending a hand for shaking. The fifth division carriers took the gesture graciously and but Kaga and Akagi both looked uncertain as Enterprise shook their hands. Both First Division carriers were uncharacteristically timid in their greeting. Perhaps the ramifications in the wake of project Orochi were not quite dead and buried.
Belfast stepped forward, giving a small curtsy with Hammann following her lead, a small blush on the destroyer's face. "Now that everyone is present and accounted for, may we retire to the meeting hall we have set up? I believe breakfast shall be ready not long after we arrive and get settled."
With unanimous acknowledgments and an excited cheer regarding food from U-556, the group began their march up the hill. With Belfast in the lead, the maid took on the role of acting doesn't, showing off the town and shops as the residents of the base began their morning routines, giving waves and greetings as they passed by. Enterprise found herself gauging the reactions of the Iron Bloods and the First Division carriers as it was their first time setting foot on their base.
Eugen looked about curiously while Hipper barely moved her head in any direction Belfast directed their attention to. Akagi and Kaga both appeared speechless, pausing occasionally to smell a flower or inspect the goods in a shop window. Their quiet fascination brought relief to Enterprise's thoughts. The hard work everyone had put in was apparently paying off.
Bismarck, for her part, seemed to be eyeing everyone and everything as though it were an admiralty inspection. Not looking at anything particularly negatively but almost as if things were not quite up to her expectation. That is until U-556 would take her hand and point out something of interest, eliciting a gentle hum and nod of affirmation from the battleship. At one point, she caught Enterprise staring and smiled before ushering U-556 to make conversation with Hornet and Hammann. The little sub reluctantly followed orders and Bismarck fell back to walk beside Enterprise.
Enterprise briefly noticed how tall the battleship was. There was maybe an inch or two difference between them, but the Iron Blood's displacement was certainly imposing.
"Sisters can be quite energetic, no?"
"They certainly can be at times." Enterprise said with a nod as she watched Hornet looking distinctly uncomfortable with how much U-556 was pulling on her arm, begging her to run around with her.
"You have more than just the one. Yorktown is it?"
Enterprise's smile faltered slightly but nodded.
"I understand she was severely wounded in battle. How is her condition now?"
Enterprise found her mind drifting back to that horrific day and had to shake herself out of the memory. "She's doing better. Been up and about more regularly in the last couple weeks."
"That is good to hear." Bismarck nodded with a small, yet genuine smile.
U-556 gave a playful jab at one of Hornet's breasts causing the blonde to blush and finally chase after the little sub across the lawns. Hammann looked almost ready to give chase as well but stopped herself.
"Do you spend much time with them?" Bismarck continued as they watched their sisters dodge and weave around one another, U-556 laughing the entire time. Hornet seemed to be enjoying herself as well, her momentary embarrassment seemingly forgotten.
"They like to spend time together, yes." She nodded. "I find that it helps them get past what happened."
Bismarck tilted her head curiously. "You don't join them?"
Enterprise blinked and averted her eyes from the battleship. "I think they're better off if I'm not there to dampen the mood. Especially since I've been rather busy lately. And if the fleet needs me for anything-"
"Bah!" Bismarck huffed and rolled her eyes. "And people say I hold myself in high regard."
Enterprise gave her a curious stare, unsure of what to make of the remark. There was no way she had known what had been said before their arrival at the dock.
"Do not cast your presence about so lightly Grey Ghost." Bismarck waggled a warning finger at her. "Sisters cannot be replaced when they are gone." Her steely expression softened as she lowered her head to the point where Enterprise could just barely see a pained look of regret cross her features. "Even if you try to protect them by distancing yourself… Isolation and loneliness are far more painful that any round fired in anger."
Enterprise could only stare in bewilderment at the battleship. It was like she had been read like an open book. Bismarck held her gaze for another moment before the two found themselves walking up a set of steps to a large white building where the Royal Navy held most of their conferences and gatherings. The conversation ended as Bismarck continued to eye her surroundings along with the Sakura Empire representatives. Enterprise paused, holding the door open as U-556 darted through and immediately latched onto Bismarck's arm.
Hornet came panting up beside her older sister, fanning herself with her hat. "I never knew…subs were so agile." She wheezed. U-556 heard her and blew a playful raspberry at the carrier. Hornet returned the gesture in kind causing the sub to giggle before turning back around.
Enterprise smiled down at her younger sister who straightened herself up, wiping her brow with a sleeve. "Hornet…" Her voice was soft and she felt a lump forming in her throat.
"What's up big sis?" Hornet's expression grew slightly worried.
In that moment, Enterprise got a brief glimpse at how disconnected from her sisters she really was. Her breath nearly caught in her throat as the ache in her chest made itself known.
"Sis? Are you all right?" Hornet's brows were pinching together, now clearly worried.
"Yeah. Sorry… Just… I think I lost my train of thought."
Hornet looked a bit disappointed but nodded regardless. "Well… I'm here when you remember."
"Of course." Enterprise nodded, feeling more than a little guilty at the moment. Bismarck was right. But now was not the time to address that issue. It could wait for a while.
The two carriers caught up to their group who were being escorted inside the designated conference room. Hammann excused herself to check on the breakfast preparations in the kitchen down the hall while Belfast ushered the guests to their seats. No sooner had everyone gotten settled, than Hammann returned. She pushed a small kart into the room with covered trays and cutlery rolled in elegant white napkins stacked in an orderly pyramid on the side. She was followed by four other destroyers, Z23, Ayanami, Javelin and Laffey, all sporting their own maid outfits.
"My, don't you look absolutely adorable." Eugen cooed as she eyed Z23. "Don't go outside or you'll break a few necks from others getting whiplash."
Z23 blushed but she held her tongue, opting to give a cute growl of annoyance as she served her Iron Blood companions.
Ayanami for her part looked just as uncomfortable but the carriers all smiled at her sweetly, easing the destroyer's unease.
Laffey, looking sleepy as ever, managed to serve the Royal Navy and Eagle Union girls while Javelin went around pouring tea for everyone.
"We hope you enjoy what we've made for you." The Royal Navy destroyer chirped eagerly.
Everyone's attention turned to the covered platters with curious expressions. As one, they removed the lids as a cloud of steam rose to assault their nostrils.
"Oh goodness." Akagi gasped as she eyed the admittedly massive omelet on her plate. Beside everyone's main plate was a bowl of soup with four small sauce dishes looking like a row of troops presenting their contents to the guests.
Akagi tentatively took the chopsticks that had been set aside and pinched the end of the omelet, cutting through it with almost no effort. Another burst of aroma hit everyone causing the guests to blink in surprise again. The smell of light oil, pepper, and spices that reminded her of home were nearly enough to bring tears to the nine-tails' eyes. She took a bite and the breath left her lungs with a gasp.
"Sister, are you all right?" Kaga asked worriedly, glancing down at her plate. Across the room, the four destroyers all tensed, looking worried.
"You must try this Kaga." Akagi managed to choke out a whisper.
The white fox blinked as Akagi cut another piece of her omelet and held it up to her, cupping her hand beneath it. Kaga swallowed and leaned forward to take a bite. Her snow-white ears shot straight up and the fur on her tails stood on end as she savored the taste. Tears welled up in her eyes as she stared across the room at the destroyers.
"Tell me. Did you sweet girls make this on your own?"
The destroyers nodded.
Kaga rose from her seat and daintily walked over to them. The destroyers all looked nervous, until the carrier bent down and pulled them in close for a hug. "It's delicious." She exclaimed.
Her words seemed to stun the destroyers and it took them nearly choking from Kaga's embrace to recompose themselves. "You really like it?" Ayanami asked, tentatively rubbing her knees together.
"Magnificent!"
All heads turned to Bismarck who seemed to be glowing as she chewed on her first bite. Beside her, Eugen, Hipper and U-556 all took a bite. Eugen gave a deep satisfied moan along with U-556. For the first time that day, Hipper's posture seemed to relax as her shoulders slumped.
Z23 beamed with pride though still wore a strong blush on her cheeks.
"Absolutely wonderful." Elizabeth chimed after her first bite was taken. Beside her Wales and Warspite nodded in agreement, both wearing face-encompassing smiles.
"Damn, this is good you guys." Hornet said with toothy grin as she looked back at the four. "You four really outdid yourselves."
Laffey gave a thumbs up while the other three blushed.
"How did you girls come up with this recipe?" Shoukaku asked having taken a bite along with her sister. Kaga returned to her seat and waited for the answer.
"Teamwork." Laffey stated in almost a whisper. "We worked together."
"We wanted to make a good first impression seeing as this was the first meeting for our two sides." Javelin piped up. "Initially we thought of giving everyone something traditional from someone else, but that felt…erm…"
"It felt weird." Ayanami finished. "Eventually we came up with a list of common ingredients and decided to make something universal with everyone giving their own spin on it."
"It was a process to say the least." Z23 sighed. "Laffey's first batch was saltier than the ocean itself."
"It wasn't that bad." Laffey murmured defensively, her cheeks taking on a rosy hue.
Bismarck, Zuikaku and Shoukaku all laughed whilst everyone else gave nervous chuckles.
"You can use the different sauces for dipping." Ayanami stated, still blushing as she pointed to the platters.
"Is that ketchup?" Elizabeth asked, eyeing the red sauce before her. She sounded as if she were unsure of what to make of it.
"What's the matter your majesty?" Hornet chortled with a fork-full of omelet with said sauce on it. "Too high on your throne to enjoy commoner food?"
Elizabeth huffed, taking a slice and dipping it. "I will indulge out of respect for my fellow ladies in arms and-" She took a bite, interrupting herself and gave a muffled squeal of delight.
As the meal commenced, Belfast followed the destroyers out of the room, stating that she would be helping with the kitchen cleanup. However, a wink at Enterprise suggested that the maids would all be taking the time to enjoy a morning meal as well.
Smiling inwardly, Enterprise picked up her chopsticks, opting to try the imperial method of eating and took a bite. Almost immediately she began to salivate as the flavors splashed over her tongue like the waves against her hull. The eggs were light and fluffy acting as a blanket for the innards of potatoes, mushrooms, carrots, sausage, and something sweet she couldn't quite put her finger on.
The meal continued with everyone making small talk, as the clinking and hums of satisfaction emanated from those present. It was nearly an hour later when Belfast and the destroyers returned. The four auxiliary maids gathered everyone's platters before disappearing with gracious bows to their leaders, and a thumbs up from Laffey. With the four of them gone, Belfast and Hammann proceeded to serve after breakfast tea and a special peach wine to commemorate the occasion.
With the matter of food out of the way, Bismarck sat up a bit straighter, trying to hide a subtle rub of her stomach. "It seems that Z23 gets along well with the other girls. Have there been any hiccups where she and Z1 are concerned?"
"Not at all." Elizabeth stated cheerily. She had her hands folded in her lap but Enterprise noticed she was surreptitiously rubbing a very full stomach. "Javelin said she seemed a bit nervous and hesitant at first." She glanced at the imperial representatives with a warm smile. "But apparently Ayanami already being friends with Javelin and Laffey helped ease that a great deal."
The imperial carriers all smiled softly.
"That girl is really something else." Zuikaku stated, a wistful sigh in her voice. Her eyes met Enterprise's and she returned the look.
"It's good you have someone like her that everyone looks up to. I hear she's been a great role model for the rest of the residents from the Sakura Empire." Enterprise's thoughts went back to the night she had spoken with Ayanami just outside the dorms. "She and Laffey have very insightful perspectives that help build bridges between people."
"That is good to hear." Bismarck nodded appreciatively. "I had some initial worries about our groups sharing a base, but it appears they are assuaged for the time being." She held her glass of wine up to toast before taking a sip. Wordlessly, everyone else mirrored the gesture.
Enterprise sat up, placing her folded hands on top of the table. "If it's alright with everyone, should we continue on to the business at hand?" Her words brought about several looks that seemed more than a little unwelcoming of the interruption. Truthfully, she would have been content to let the idle chatter continue. Building bridges is all well and good, but they still had work to do.
She glanced at Belfast who merely gave a sweet smile from where she and Hammann stood.
"I suppose the pleasantries had to cease at some point." Bismarck sighed, setting her wine glass down and crossing a leg over her knee. Her expression turned serious, and her eyes locked onto Enterprise like a target.
"Project Orochi."
Enterprise's words were like a blow to the gut and immediately the imperials stiffened.
Akagi looked absolutely mortified as her ears and tail wilted like a dying flower. She crossed her hands on the table, staring into the immaculate wooden surface as though her gaze alone could crush it. Beside her, Kaga glanced between her sister and Enterprise, unsure of what to do or say.
Enterprise chewed on her lower lip for a second before leaning forward to reach across to Akagi. "We're not here to lay blame Akagi." She opened her hand in a gesture of genuine intent. "I bring it up because it's one of the most pressing matters we face. The sooner we address it, the sooner we all can move on from it."
"I agree." Zuikaku said, leaning forward to meet her senior's eyes. "It was a mistake, yes, but one we've been fortunate enough to be able to walk away from. Let's learn from it and grow stronger together."
Zuikaku offered her hand as well to the trembling Akagi. Akagi looked at it as though it were about to bite her.
"Sister…" Kaga whispered, placing her hand on Akagi's arm. "We're being given a chance to redeem ourselves for our past mistakes. For our past failures. Let us not squander this gift." Kaga rested her chin on Akagi's shoulder tenderly, flicking one of her ears against the brunette's.
Akagi, still looking wary, reached out and took both Zuikaku and Enterprise's hands giving both a firm squeeze. "Thank you." Her voice was practically a wheeze.
There was a moment of silence before the sound of soft clapping was heard. All heads turned to Bismarck who showed no sign of sincerity in the gesture, inciting looks of scorn from the others.
"While your compassion for your former enemies is admirable Grey Ghost, I do not share the same sentiment as you."
Across the table, Prince of Wales narrowed her eyes at the Iron Blood leader and crossed her legs, in a gesture of restraint. "Would you care to explain, Lord Bismarck, rather than making a blatantly obvious statement?"
Bismarck gave a huff but to everyone's surprise, it was Eugen who spoke next. "What they did was very foolish, no matter how you look at it." She leaned back in her seat, joining in the leg crossing and sipped her wine before continuing. "I understand Akagi's wish to have those she cares so deeply for survive. But we Iron Blood value strength. And that includes the strength to resist temptation."
"You walk a very fine line with that yourselves." Warspite spoke up, her expression growing serious. "At what point does Iron Blood draw the line when it comes to using siren technology?"
"We Iron Blood greatly value loyalty as well." Hipper spoke up, her green eyes locking with Warspite's. "We may not be loyal to all of your ideals, but we have never been disloyal to humanity and the end goal of defeating the sirens." She shot the imperials a venomous glare. "But ideals or not. Fears or ambitions be damned, siding with the sirens like you did, or for any reason is inexcusable." She jabbed her fork in Akagi's direction and the nine-tails flinched. "Had anyone been killed, I would not be sitting her right now because I wouldn't be able to stomach the sight of you."
Akagi and Kaga looked ready to implode from embarrassment and shame. Not even Shoukaku's attempts at comfort were enough to get them to lift their heads. Across from them, the Royal Navy girls all glared in disgust at the Iron Bloods. Hornet and Hammann exchanged glances, looking distinctly uncomfortable.
Enterprise was stunned into silence. The mood of the gathering had gone from one-hundred to below the ocean floor in a matter of minutes. Had she misread the Iron Bloods' willingness to ally themselves? Was an Alliance really what they were hoping for? Or just someone to blame for the entire incident that Orochi had brought about?
"That being said," Bismarck spoke up. "I agree with Freundin Enterprise and Zuikaku. We grow stronger when we learn from our mistakes. And in order to get stronger, we must proceed forward, no?" She fixed Wales with her steal-cold stare as if to making a point. After a few heartbeats, the Iron Blood leader turned to look at Kaga and Akagi. "I am willing to forgive your transgressions in the hope that in growing stronger, we never have to face a scenario like this again." She reached over with an open hand. "This is an honorable act, ja?"
"Could you have been less scary about it?" Hornet asked, clearly unnerved by the tension.
Bismarck smirked. "Is the little carrier frightened by my demeanor? Is it not better to air my grievances, rather than let them bottle up like an over pressurized valve?"
"Not at all." Elizabeth stated calmly. "But perhaps a bit more decorum in your presentation might serve you well."
"Indeed." Wales gave a curt nod.
Bismarck ignored them, keeping her eyes locked on Akagi and Kaga. Slowly and delicately, Akagi placed her hand in Bismarck's and the Iron Blood gripped her tightly, giving what Enterprise interpreted as an attempt at sincerity, but looked sterner as if giving a silent warning. When she released her, Bismarck held Akagi's stare for just a moment longer than was likely necessary.
Enterprise frowned as she and Wales exchanged a look. Prince had not been exaggerating about the commanding authority aspect of Bismarck. She was also beginning to wonder how much the battleship's ideals were going to get in the way of this alliance.
"Well then, now that the pleasantries are out of the way…" Elizabeth piped up and waved for Belfast to open the windows. The room filled with the faint sounds of voices outside and the caws of gulls on the late morning breeze. Everyone seemed to relax as the ambient sounds of the base drifted through the air. "Lady Akagi. Lady Kaga. Would you be so inclined to give us some deeper insight into project Orochi?"
Both sisters looked visibly troubled by the request, but Akagi stood, clasping her hands in front of her before bowing. "What specifics would you like to know?"
She was clearly trying to delay having to answer. It may have been an attempt to refrain from drawing further ire from the Iron Bloods. But likely it was due to the deep shame she felt for having put everyone in such a situation. Enterprise could sympathize with her. They had both done foolish and irresponsible things out of fear.
Wales was the one who spoke next. "We're aware that both Sakura Empire and Iron Blood use siren technology to bolster their own forces. But the understanding of the technology is not nearly as… extensive here."
"Being able to control siren war ships and aircraft was something none of us thought possible." Warspite gave Akagi a firm but not unkind look. She looked more concerned than resentful like a parent who cares for their child but is still upset when they make big mistakes. "Was that due to the power of the black mental cube?"
Akagi gave a slow nod. "In part. The black mental cube was a way of observing the events of the battles we partook in. It recorded the strengths and weaknesses of those involved, and once uploaded to Orochi, developed methods to counteract them."
"That would explain a lot about why even our combined efforts weren't enough to break that barrier." Hipper said grimly. "Not even the mass-produced ships had any sort of barrier technology."
"Perhaps it might also be a limitation due to the ship's size." Eugen pondered aloud, giving her sister a wink. Hipper's expression turned sour and she balled her hand into a tight fist. "But perhaps more interesting…." Eugen leaned forwards lowly swirling her wine glass. "Was how Grey Ghost managed to break through the barrier with a single shot."
All heads turned towards Enterprise. The Royal Navy reps all looked uneasily at her as it had not been the first time they had witnessed such a display of power. The same could be observed from the Sakura Empire reps who had been there both times as well. Only the Iron Bloods were genuinely out of the loop. All were waiting patiently for an answer.
"I'm still trying to figure that out." Enterprise finally spoke as she interlaced her fingers on the tabletop. "Like Akagi, I feel that the two of us have a connection to the sirens."
"A connection?" Bismarck gave a slight tilt of her head. "Explain please."
Enterprise rubbed her thumbs together as she inhaled. "As you know, we are the manifestations of humankind's will and hope. Orochi is…was the other side of that coin."
That got more than a few nervous shuffles from the others.
Hornet leaned forward to stare hard at her. "So what you're saying is that massive ship was the manifestation of humankind's…what? Fear and despair?"
"That would be a fairly accurate presumption." Enterprise said with a nod. "I believe the sirens used Akagi as a way of channeling those feelings for their purposes."
Her younger sister was trembling now. Enterprise gave her hand a firm squeeze, and Hornet squeezed back harder. The hours and days after the battle of Orochi had left Hornet feeling more than a little vulnerable. Or so she had said, having gone several times to visit Yorktown and being rather hesitant to leave their eldest sister at the end of the day.
"It would also make sense why you were so keen to work with the sirens." Shoukaku rose from her seat and placed a hand on Akagi's shoulder. Before the elder carrier could utter a word, she continued. "Fear and despair can drive people to desperation. To make irrational decisions. Everyone is capable of it."
Zuikaku followed her sister's lead and gave Kaga a nudge. "You're sisters. And you have family who love you and care about your happiness. The next time you have worries or concerns, be sure to address them before they get out of hand." A smirk crept across Zuikaku's mouth, and she brushed her thumb across her forehead.
Kaga's brows knit together as though she were recalling a phantom pain. But after a moment her expression softened, and she gave a nod before standing beside her sister. She glanced at the Iron Bloods and seemed surprised to find that U-556 had sidled up to Bismarck with her tiny arms wrapped around the battleship's own. Eugen looked more amused as she reclined into her seat but kept an arm draped over the back nearest to Hipper.
"If it would help bolster trust with this new alliance, we can provide what we have left over from Orochi to further your understanding of siren technology." The white fox stated as though making a grand declaration.
"That would be very helpful." Elizabeth stood and gave a courteous bow. "However, would your elders be willing to release such information?"
Kaga gave a nod. "We're certain that they will. Nagato was hesitant from the beginning about what we were doing, so if using such knowledge helps dispel any chances of history repeating itself, then I'm certain she'll allow the knowledge to be shared."
Eugen gave a curious hum. "And in the event she says no?"
"We'll deal with that if, or when that happens." Wales interjected before the jibe could go any further.
Eugen gave a thoughtful nod and a dismissive wave.
"You may also count on the Iron Blood to provide you with enlightenment to the intricacies of siren technology." Bismarck spoke up. She pried U-556 off her arm, causing the little sub to pout. "While we too use siren tech much like Sakura Empire, our philosophy in how we use it… differs greatly." She looked to Enterprise yet again and seemed to be studying her rather intently. "However, I must inquire. What do you hope to gain from such knowledge?"
It was a good question. And one Enterprise had given considerable thought to. "I trust you have been briefed on the weapon Orochi used during the battle?"
Bismarck nodded grimly. "Yes. Eugen and Hipper have gone into rather… disturbing amounts of detail about it." She glanced at her subordinates with Hipper staring into the middle distance and Eugen appearing as though she had eaten something fowl. Enterprise couldn't blame them. Nor the others who appeared to be sharing similar feelings to the memory of unspeakable destructive power that had nearly wiped their home base from existence.
"And how would you feel knowing that a weapon like that existed?"
"Existed?" Bismarck turned to the Sakura Empire reps. "What did you do with the third one?"
"Currently it is being held by a joint force for decommissioning." Akagi stated, quick to assuage the battleship's worries.
Bismarck blinked. "A joint force?"
"Currently, the Royal Navy, Sakura Empire and Eagle Union have several ships and tech teams posted to guard Orochi as it is disarmed and dismantled." Wales waved to Belfast who nodded, walking to a table at the far end of the room and returned with a folder for Bismarck. As the Iron Blood leader began skimming through the pages, Wales continued. "Our first priority has been to learn what can be done to defend against such a weapon in the event one is ever used against us in such a way."
"I see." Bismarck's voice was barely above a murmur as her eyes scanned the pages. Eugen, Hipper and U-556 all watched her as page after page was scanned showing images of the deadly weapon that had nearly cost Enterprise her life. All three were utterly silent. "And what counter measures have you come up with?"
"Unfortunately nothing." Wales admitted bitterly.
"Not surprising." Eugen said with a shake of her head. "The sirens bragged about how the technology was beyond our understanding as far as being a future weapon goes." She gave a mirthful wink to Wales. "It would be unnecessary to beat yourself up over it."
"Your council is greatly appreciated Prinz Eugen." Wales nodded but with an unmistakable twitch in her eye. "Would you have any helpful suggestions?"
Eugen didn't miss a beat. "You said so yourself. Your priority has been finding a way to defend against such a weapon. And if I recall, that forcefield gave us all quite a bit of trouble."
"She has a point." Hornet agreed and pinched her chin between thumb and forefinger. "Orochi had unimaginable offensive and defensive capabilities." She met Eugen's gaze after a moment. "My question is, would a barrier like that be able to withstand a hit from such a weapon?"
Eugen frowned. "One would hope so considering the power Orochi displayed."
"But if the sirens had the data provided from previous skirmishes, then it's not unreasonable to think that the barrier might have been made strong enough to prevent us from damaging Orochi itself." Hipper spoke up.
Across from her, Warspite sat upright, taking her tea in hand but not sipping it. "In other words, you think that most of Orochi's power was dedicated to offensive rather than defensive purposes?" Hipper nodded and Warspite's own expression hardened in disgust before she took a sip and looked to Kaga and Akagi. "I'm hesitant to ask, but how many of these were on that ship?"
The sisters both clenched their jaws and looked ready to start sweating bullets.
"It doesn't matter." Bismarck interrupted, much to everyone surprise. "But I agree with Ihre Majestat Wales. Being able to defend against such a thing should take priority." She plucked a photo from the folder she had been studying and held it up for everyone to see. It was the damage left behind by Orochi's first strike.
Shoukaku's hands flew to her mouth with a gasp and Zuikaku bolted upright with a look of unadulterated mortification. Akagi and Kaga both looked horrified, as the blood drained from their already pale skin.
Akagi whimpered and reached for Kaga. The white fox took her hand and pulled her into an embrace, rubbing Akagi's head as she wept quietly into her shoulder. Glancing over to Bismarck, Kaga sucked in a sharp breath when she found the battleship's stern blue-eyed stare locked on them.
"Remember this." She said, her voice barely above a whisper. "You are not allowed to forget such a monstrosity being brought to bear against humanity."
"That's enough Bismarck." Enterprise interjected. "We're not here to cast anymore blame."
Bismarck held Kaga's stare for another breath before leaning back and letting the folder sit in her lap. U-556 picked up the image and looked at it closely with wide eyes as did Eugen and Hipper.
"Let us pray that we never have to see another one of those fired." Hipper said with a scowl.
"Never." Eugen agreed and pulled Hipper into her chest. Hipper immediately fought back, trying to pull herself free from Eugen's suffocating bust. When Eugen released her, the blonde looked ready to go on a tirade but halted when she found Eugen staring at her. The heavy cruiser's eyes shone with mirth, but she bit the corner of her lower lip in a way that looked like uncertainty.
"Then it's settled." Elizabeth chirped and gave a soft clap of her hands. Almost immediately the tension seemed to rise like morning mist beneath the sun. "We will take your advice Iron Blood and begin focusing more on developing more defensive measures. And Sakura Empire, we look forward to hearing from you once you have spoken to your elders regarding opening up about Orochi."
All parties nodded in agreement and Enterprise let out a sigh. "If there are no further questions, then we may consider this first meeting of the Azur Axis Alliance-"
"Did you come up with that name yourself?" Eugen asked, her usual smirk on her lips.
"Do you have a problem with it?" Hornet asked defensively.
"On the contrary." Eugen giggled, crossing her legs the opposite way. "I find it rather catchy, as you say."
Hornet seemed to relax at that, but Bismarck raised her hand.
"I do have one question before we wrap up here."
Hornet made a visible defensive shift but kept silent, opting to narrow her eyes at the battleship.
"Azure Lane and Sakura Empire have formed a joint force to deal with Orochi. However, I do not know of any Iron Blood involved with such an endeavor. Do you intend to leave us out of the loop?"
"Not at all." Elizabeth stated with a smile that was typical of most Royal Navy when dealing with a difficult individual. "We only have a small handful of Irion Blood on base and did not wish to supersede your authority by giving them orders." She gestures towards Shoukaku and Zuikaku. "Sakura Empire already had representatives onsite and were willing to take part in organizing the necessary steps to-"
"Alright, I understand." Bismarck sighed with a wave. "I will talk with Z23 about taking charge as a representative should myself, Eugen or Hipper be absent."
"What?" U-556 spoke up for the first time since the meal had started. She tugged on Bismarck's cape with a disgruntled pout on her face. "What about me Lord Bismarck?"
"I expect you to work with your superiors and follow their orders as though they were coming from me." Bismarck replied, giving the little sub a pat on the head before looking her in the eye. "And I expect you to be on your best behavior even when I'm not around. Or no spatzle for you."
U-556 wilted a little. "You wouldn't…"
Bismarck smiled coyly and pinched her cheek. "I don't think you want to test that little sister."
U-556 pouted. "Fine." She grumbled and crossed her arms.
Enterprise gave a huff of amusement before exchanging a smile with Hornet. Hornet smiled back but whimpered when Enterprise gave her cheek a similar pinch. She flailed and swat Enterprise's hand away before pouting in a manner that would have given U-556 a run for her money.
"If there are no more major issues to discuss…" Bismarck continued.
"There is one." Enterprise stated, catching the attention of everyone present. "I waited until you were here before asking, but would you be willing lend the aid of some of your subs for a reconnaissance mission?"
Bismarck tilted her head in confusion. "Are you expecting trouble Grey Ghost?"
Enterprise shook her head. "I ask, because we want the site of Orochi's original strike studied much like Orochi itself." She gestured to the picture in U-556's hands. "The scout who reported the strike stated that there was no human presence when the weapon went off. However, if we're going to develop a defensive shield against a potential threat, then knowing the full extent of the damage will provide critical intelligence in that regard."
"I see." Bismarck eyed her as though looking for an ulterior motive but nodded when Enterprise gave her a perplexed tilt of the head. "I will lend you Admiral Hipper who will be in charge of U-556. Once I speak with Z23 I will have her organize a rendezvous for two more. Will that be sufficient for now?"
Enterprise nodded and smiled graciously. "Thank you. We will be sure to take good care of them of course."
"I'm not worried about that." Bismarck chuckled with a shake of her head. She pet U-556 like a cat and the little sub leaned into it, practically purring from the affection. "But for the sake of knowing, who else do you intend to send with them?"
