I'm back with another chapter, sorry if the stories seems to be lacking for the last little while.
But I wanted to do some set up on the Azur Lane side of things before the two sides finally meet. Still I do hope that you at least find the world building entertaining enough in the meantime. So with that out of the way let's get on with the story.
As always all rights go to their owners as I own nothing.
I had always thought that if I showed honor and dedication to my duty that I would reciprocate. But I never expected it to be used against me, especially by those who I pledged myself too. Guess it just shows how great a fool I was: Hiryuu in a moment of private self reflection
It had been three days since Hiryuu had been entered into the intensive care unit. In those three days everyone one who had a moment to spare spent it looking after her, as it had became painfully obvious that Hiryuu was going to need around the clock care if she was going to pull through this.
A fact that was seemingly confirmed to everyone when they had been required to restart the carriers' heart: twice!
Each time that her heart had stopped, Miles couldn't help but feel as if he not only failed her, but everyone in not stopping this conflict from happening.
Despite the fact that they had managed to keep her alive, it was obvious to everyone that Miles wasn't taking this situation very well. As both Belfast and Yamato ended up spending some time with Miles to make sure that he didn't fall into his more self destructive behaviors in order to attempt to coop with what was happening. As at this point Azur Lane couldn't afford to be down its Commander; not even for a moment.
But thankfully for everyone on the base after the second day in intensive care Hiryuu condition had finally stabilized enough that she didn't need round the clock care. Even so Belfast had stayed by her side. Just in case anything else unexpected popped up.
While Belfast was attending to their guest, Miles had spent the last day and a half trying to figure out just what had happened to the carrier. As he and Yamato had inspired her riggings wreak and from what the two of them were able to gather they were able to conclude that damage it had wasn't from any Siren ship.
But was instead most damage on Hiryuu's rigging matched damage made from Union five hundred and thousand pound bombs. As such it meant that she had been fighting against Union forces before she had arrived here. But despite his best efforts, Miles couldn't find any reports of actions between Union and Empire forces in the last few days.
Which only help to fuel a certain sense of foreboding; a feeling that was only enhanced by the fact that Miles hadn't gotten any updates from his contacts within the Eagle Union for over three days now. This understandable made Miles nervous, as he knew that something big had happened for all of them to go radio silent at the same time.
So when those contacts did finally reestablished communications with him; Mile got the feeling he wasn't going to like the news that they would give him.
But that was the last thing on Miles mind at the moment; as he and Yamato were currently making their way towards the infamy, as they had just been informed that the carrier had woken up. Even so this wasn't the foremost issue on their minds, as Miles had just gotten another report in regards to the current state of the Sardegna Empire.
"We have to do something," Miles was saying to Yamato as they were walking, "As we simply can't let them use their Kansen as scapegoats."
Miles was of course referring to the now failed military coup that had taken place within the Empire. Details were sketchy, but from what he and other had managed to acquire he had gotten an idea as to why it had taken place.
"And we will Shikikan, but we must see to Hiryuu first." Yamato reminded her Commander.
As she was correct in that regard. As there was very little that either of them could do for the remaining Ship-girls now trapped in the Sardegna Empire. Knowing this Yamato felt that they should prepare themselves to deal with Hiryuu and the news she would undoubted give them before they started to think about what they could do for the remaining Ship-girls currently in hiding throughout the Sardegna Empire.
'I just pray that it's now as bad as I fear.' Yamato thought silently to herself.
Because even she had found herself fearing what Hiryuu might say to them, especially considering the state in which they had first came across her. But despite her personal feeling Yamato knew very well that Miles was probably feeling the same if not more concurred then she probably was at this moment.
As such Yamato felt that it was her duty to act as the pillar of strength for the two of them. This mean bring her commanders focus back to the present moment rather than then focusing on issues happening elsewhere in the world that they could do nothing about.
"But," Miles started to say before Yamato cut him off.
"Listen Alex, we both know that something must be done about this. But at the moment there's nothing we can do, so I suggest that you prepare yourself for what Hiryuu's going to say. As I don't expect it to be pleasant, nor she will stay awake to explain most things." Yamato said giving him dressing down.
As the battleship felt that Miles needed this more than anything at this moment. Because it was plainly obvious to her that Miles was allowing his feelings to influence him once again, which was why he was so was hyper focused on this signal issue.
Still Yamato couldn't find herself getting too annoyed at her Shikikan, as she knew Miles was merely afraid for the safely of those he had formerly served with.
This was rather understandable considering just how little information they had in regards to what had actually happened within the Sardegna Empire.
Still Yamato couldn't help but be reminded as to why Miles had charted the course that he had with Azur Lane. As the battleship knew that he done so to both keep Azur Lane from falling under the influence of one signaler nation, while ensuring that if situation like this did arise then he could attempt to negotiation on behalf of the Ship-girls now trapped Sardegna Empire.
Still Yamato knew that like any dream it often times met reality.
A fact that Yamato was certain that Alexander was more than aware of, as in the early days of the war it seemed that reality had seemingly decided to punish Miles for taking this stance of neutrality in this conflict.
As during the first opening months of the war Yamato knew that Alex had allow the Union Kansen under his care to be allowed to sortie out to help with relive the forces that were under attack in Pearl Harbor. But as this force had been on their way to relief force Peal Harder did this task force find themselves caught in an unexpected ambushed, and during the desperate fighting that followed did this incident take place.
No one knew to this day know who had fired the shot, but in the end it didn't matter as the ambushed had ended with the first Kansen casualty of the war had been claimed.
As this had came as an utter shock to all involved they both ceased fighting the moment that she had went down. But despite their efforts to save her, she was already too far gone and could only watch as her life faded away, as with it went the unspoken rules that all Kansen had followed at that point in regards to war.
Still thankfully they wasn't any further fighting after this, as both sides saw no point in fighting further considering what had just taken place; as such they simply disengage and returned to home ports. Still Yamato couldn't help but see this as something of an unspoken victory; if not for the Sakura Empire but for the Sirens. For the Empress of the Sea had strongly suspected they had a hand in what had taken place that day.
As she knew that no Kansen would fire on another without the intention to kill, at least not willingly. But this didn't change the fact that it had happened, and whither it came as a matter of design or pure accident it had made a major impact on everyone involved. As Yamato knew that Miles had come to blame himself for what had happened and hadn't been the same man since according to Belfast.
Then again this hadn't come as much of a surprise to battleship, as she knew that the heart of a dreamer was a fragile thing. So to have that dream destroyed so suddenly and to loss someone who Miles had been practically close with at the same time was a massive blow to him.
Still Yamato knew there had been some attempts by Belfast and other others close to Miles to get him back on track once they felt enough time had passed. But so far it seemed that none of those attempts had the intended effect so far. As such Yamato felt that it fell to her to take the other approach while using Belfast as a counter weight to ensure that she didn't go too far to hopefully get Miles back on track.
But it seemed that Yamato had already done so, as a quick glance over at him confirmed that she had miss read him entirely.
As the Yamato was once again forced to remind herself that despite Miles many faults, he did genially care what happened to them. If he hadn't then he would've allowed Azur Lane to be drawn into the ongoing conflict long ago.
But he hadn't, instead he had made it clear to both sides that if they ever needed a place to inter a captured a Ship-girl until this conflict was over; then he would be more than happy to ensure that they were looked after.
Unsurprisingly no one had really taken him up on this offer.
The only real time this offer had been taken was when the Grand Admiral himself reached out to those involved in a situation that would benefit from such an arrangement; such as the situation in which Admiral Graf Spee had found herself in.
'What a waste…' This was Yamato's only thought on the matter.
As this were her honest thoughts on this matter. As it was obvious that no one was holding back their punches, not even taking one moment to think about the future and what the consequences of these actions would entail.
A fact that wasn't lost on the battleship; as Yamato was indeed guilty of the same thing that she scolded her Shikikan of only moments earlier. Such as losing focus at the problem at hand, as Empresses of the Sea still needed to deal with the problem of her own creation before they spoke with Hiryuu.
"Seems I might've spoken poorly," Yamato mused to her, an admission that she had made a mistake, "Alexander, don't take my words to mean that I didn't care about the situation in the Sardegna. I merely wish for you to focus on what is needed." Yamato tried to explain why she had spoken to him in such a way.
"I know, but what can I possibly do for them? I have no way of reaching anyone in the new government." Miles treaded the same ground that he had been retracting for most of the day now.
Yamato for her part couldn't find an easy answer, as even she was stumped as to what action should be taken. But admitting this to him would be counterproductive at this moment.
"For the moment Shikikan, I fear that you have to simply wait. As we still know very little of what has taken place within the Sardegna Empire." Yamato reminded him as gentility as she, then bring her pipe to her lips.
Because Yamato had a sneaking suspect as to where that this conversation might be going, so she would hear him out; as they still had a little longer before they reach the infamy, as such she would take this chance to both listen to Miles while taking this last chance to enjoy her pipe before putting it away for Hiryuu's health.
"Isn't that a good reason as to why we should take the initiative, and have someone go and gather more intelligence?" Miles half asked half argued.
Yamato could agree with his logic, if only for one glaring thing she knew that Miles was hidden from her.
"I presume that you would be closely involved in this endeavor." The battleship then inquired, as she quietly laid out her trap.
As she knew that the only way that she could dissuade Miles from this endeavor, which was to force him to admit that he planned to travel there with the team in person.
"Of course," Miles said believing that was finally making some head way, "As I would be working closely with all involved with this." He said, all the while merely confirming what Yamato had suspected.
Still she saw no reason as to close her trap yet; so she continued.
"Do you have a short list of those who would take a part of this, operation?" Yamato then inquired.
As she was curious as to how Miles in his mind planned to actually pull of this plan of his. Mostly because it would give her a good idea as to how Miles had either grown as a strategist in her absences, or confirm her fears that he had declined from his years of inaction.
"As you know we don't have many personal available for this operation." Miles pointed out this rather obvious fact to her.
"I'm more then aware of that Shikikan; but that doesn't explain as to whom might be a part of this, mission." Yamato stated simply.
As Yamato had a vague feeling as to who he might take on this mission; still she wanted to know just who he was planning to take on this mission to infiltrate Sardegna territory he had cooked up at a moment's notices.
"It would be a three person team," Miles started to explain his plan to Yamato, all the while he was tried to figure out how he would explain this in a way that Yamato wouldn't become suspicious of what he had planned.
But that mattered little, as she already saw through his attempt to disguise his plans. Still she went along with it till she at least got what she wanted.
"That leaves very few options available to you Shikikan." Yamato pointed out this obvious fact.
"We won't need that many." Miles then insisted.
"Would you care to explain, as to whom would be involved with this. As I'm sure this would certainly affect how this base operations." Yamato inquired, as she had
"It won't be that anyone important," Miles tried to reassure her, "I was thinking that I would ask Taihou, Surcouf, and-," Miles started to say before he was cut off.
"And you of course~." Yamato then filled in what Miles was about to say.
As Yamato felt that she had played along for long enough, as she then watched as Miles face turned from that of cautious optimism to that of someone who had just been caught with their pants down, as he was left struggling for something to say.
"O-Of course not, Yamato I-" Miles started to say before Yamato cut him off.
As the Empresses of the sea felt that she had humble Alexander enough for today, as she decided that it would be more useful to go over the plan that she knew that he had worked out. And honestly it wasn't exactly the worst plan of it wasn't for a certain details.
"Oh, Shikikan let us not waste time with what we already know to be true. But instead let's look at your plan, as that would be most informative." Yamato said; blowing out a ring of smoke from her pipe. "It is a rather sound plan; everything considered at least. But sadly you've overlooked a couple of key things."
"And what might those things be?" Miles then asked.
As he wasn't angry or even upset with Yamato, but he was instead curious as what she thought he might be overlooking. Yamato then gave him a knowing smile as she then took a long pull of her pipe as she then started to explain her points.
"For starters, you are planning to leave the base unattended while there are obvious major activities from both the Sirens and Sakura Empire in these waters. A major error on your part, as Azur Lane simply can't afford to be headless at this stage in time." Yamato explained as she then released the smoke she had been taking in before continuing.
"But what I think you failed to grasp my dear Miles. Is that you'll be putting yourself in close quarters with both Taihou and Surcouf during this endeavor." That was all Yamato had to say for Miles to understand as to what she was implying.
As Surcouf seemed to enjoy messing with Miles by flaunting her sexuality with him; something that had gotten her in trouble with him many times, but this didn't detour her from doing so; mostly because the sub seemed to enjoy it messing with her Commander.
It amused Yamato to no end to think of what might happen to Miles should he actually follow through with his plan and place himself in an enclosed space with the two Ship-girls. As she could easily imagine that he would end up either locking himself up in a room for most of the trip there, or would simply give up the endeavor entirely.
As Yamato was more than certain that in that kind of environment Miles would quickly find himself in a really awkward situation with his two companions; especially that of Taihou's. As everyone who had been a part of Azur Lane for a while knew that the relationship between Miles and Taihou hadn't been the best since they had met all those years ago.
But this was an issue that Yamato could possibly help Miles address at another time. As it finally seemed that she had gotten through to him, as he was now hung his head in seeming defeat.
"So that's it then; we're just going to give up on them?" Miles sounded defeated as he said this.
"Oh Alex, when did I say that?" Yamato inquired with a knowing smile, "Thou I must admit, we must act sooner rather than later. But we need a real plan; not one that's half baked." Yamato admitted to him.
"I'm just glad there was something useful in it."
"It's a start Miles," She offered him encouragement. "It just needs time and more refinement."
Because despite its obvious flaws, Yamato could see that Miles had been onto something when he had thought about having Taihou, and Surcouf being the ones to help him infiltrate the Sardegna Empire.
Still this wasn't the time nor did the place for them to disguise and expanded on such ideas, as it hadn't escape Yamato notice that they had reached their destination.
"But for now I suggest that we put such thoughts out of our minds. Because if you haven't noticed, we've arrived at Hiryuu's room," Yamato pointed out this fact to Miles.
Who like Yamato had also been so absorbed in this conversation hadn't noticed this as well. As Miles then took a good look at the white doors that barred their way to the room; Yamato for her part waited for Miles to seemingly to collect himself, as she had seen him do this many times before, but this time it seemed, different. But the battleship could probably guess as to why this was, as the world hadn't been kind to her favorite Commander.
So when he finally seemed to collect himself, Yamato followed him through the now opened doors into the completely empty room beyond. Expect for one single bed, beside which a very familiar white haired maid at its side. Also on the bed beside her was the now resting figure of Hiryuu, which needless to say made Miles extremely happy.
As the carrier looked a lot better than when they had last seen her; probably in no small part due to the nature of the Kansen in general. But that didn't seem to really matter to him, as the Grand Admiral was merely happy to see that Hiryuu was awake and had recovered seemingly from her earlier injuries.
But as the two of them approach the bed, one of the two women there seemed to have notice them, as Belfast quickly left Hiryuu's bed side and quickly made her way over to their guests.
"Master Miles, Lady Yamato, I'm glad that you were able to make time to be able to visit us." Belfast said as she finally came close enough to be heard without raising her voice.
"Thank you Bel, so how's Hiryuu doing?" Miles then inquired, as it had been a while since he had gotten an update on her condition.
In response to Miles question, Belfast smile sagged slightly as she gave the only other two occupants in the room an update regarding the patient.
"She's stable for the moment Master; though there are other things that I do believe would be best of you hear it from her." Belfast stated.
"May I inquire as to why that might be?" It was Yamato instead of Miles that asked this.
As the battleship was curious as to what Belfast thought would be heard from Hiryuu herself. So needless to say Yamato was both intrigued and somewhat disappointed with her answer.
"Unfortunately lady Yamato, I'm unaware as to what this might be. As Hiryuu has stated that she will only reveal this information to Master Miles." Belfast explained the situation to Yamato.
Still this didn't stop Yamato thinking about inquired further into the matter but thought better then to ask. As Yamato was certain Hiryuu had her reasons for requesting this.
Knowing this Yamato would respect her wishes, so long as the battleship was allowed to be a part of the conversation; as she did have her questions for the carrier.
So seeing little reasons as to why she should hold up this meeting any longer, Yamato then asked the question that Miles probably should have.
"Very well, is she willing to meet with us?" Yamato asked, deliberately using the word 'us' so that she could also be a part of this.
To which Belfast simply gave a simple nod of her head.
"I believe she would also want you in this conversation as well, lady Yamato." Belfast said, all the while making it clear that she knew what she was doing.
In response Yamato gave a slight bow; a sign of respect.
"Then let's not keep her waiting." Miles then said taking control of the conversation before any else happened.
At which point he took the lead in making his way to Hiryuu, to which the two women fell in behind him as they two were interested in what their one time compatriot had to say.
Needless to say it didn't come as any surprise to Miles when Hiryuu greeted him with a weak smile upon seeing him.
"Shikikan, is that really you?" Hiryuu then asked once she caught sight of Miles.
"I'm glad to see you've recovered enough to speak with us child." The amused voice of Yamato leaped in before Miles could respond to what the carrier had said.
Upon hearing her voice, Hiryuu's full attention immediately went to the ivory haired battleship.
"They said you were killed," The surprise was genuine in carrier's voice as she said this.
As Hiryuu hadn't known what had happened to their Empress of the sea once she had broken contact with the Empire. Simply because they didn't have the time to track her down, nor had she been able to keep up on the news given the state of the war against the Union.
Still Yamato took this comment in stride, as she then flashed her a knowing smile.
"You think I would fall so easily child? You must really have a low opinion of your sensei." Yamato said in good jest.
As Hiryuu's reaction wasn't unexpected, as Yamato knew the moment she parted ways with the Empire that her name would be slandered in ways that she couldn't imagine.
Still the great battleship was at least happy to see that they had merely decided to claim that she had died in battle rather than brand her a traitor. Still Yamato would inquire later as to the story the Sakura Empire gave regarding her fate.
"Well, she did have help in surviving." Miles commented slyly.
As he had played no small part in Yamato survive once she had broken ties with the Empire. But the details of how this had came to be would have to explained to the carrier another time, as it seemed that Hiryuu had something she wanted to say.
"Shikikan; if you don't mind I think we need to talk about what has taken place, as it's urgent." Hiryuu said getting all serious.
As the carrier knew that if Miles wasn't aware of what she and her task force had accomplished within Union territory. If not then he needed to know what had happened, as the carrier was certain that what had taken place would not only affect Miles and Azur Lane but the might just effect outcome of this entire war.
"Okay Hiryuu; so what's happened that made you come here?" Miles then inquired.
To which the carrier seemed to sink more into her bed in response, as she then started to explain what had happened.
"I was running," She stated simply, and when no one asked her any questions she continued on, "Me, my sister, and a number of other Sakura Empire forces were tasked with undertaking a raid deep within Union territory." Hiryuu started too explained before she was interrupted.
"Why would high command take such as risk? As even Akagi must understand that she simply couldn't afford to waste resources at this point in the war." Yamato then inquired.
Because the battleship knew a suicide mission when she heard one, as such she was curious as to why Akagi let alone the Board of Admiral's would sanction such a mission. As Yamato knew that those resources could've been better used elsewhere, especially considering the Sakura Empire's current strategic situation.
"The mission was explained as a torch and burn operation." Hiryuu started to explain as she adjusted herself into a sitting up position as she continued, "As the plan was to get in fast, strike the Union's secret weapons project then leave." The white hair carrier was about to continue before Miles interrupted her with a question.
"Does this weapon project have a name?" Miles then inquired.
Because if Hiryuu knew the name of the weapons project then he might be able to learn more through his contacts, as it would make it easier for them to dig up information if they knew what to look for.
For a moment Hiryuu went silent, as she tried to remember if that had been mentioned in the briefing that she had gotten.
"I think so… I believe it was called Manhattan. But I can't remember all the details." Hiryuu sounding a bit frustrated but the fact that she couldn't remember anything else about the information she had been given about this project.
"That's enough for me to start looking into this." Miles assured her.
"Thank you Miles, though we weren't really that close in our time together. I'm glad you trust me enough to believe me." The small smile that then appeared on Hiryuu face was genuine.
As she hadn't felt like she had been able to trust anyone other than her sister in a very long time; also speaking of her sister Souryuu: Hiryuu did have a question regarding her to ask Alex.
"Shikikan, if you don't mind me asking how Souryuu doing?" Hiryuu then inquired, at which point everyone in the room seemed to freeze.
As they hadn't been expect this question from her, as such Miles then turned to Yamato and Belfast; who for their part were both wearing her mask of indifference, trying to keep up her front. As to no alarm Hiryuu of the reality of the situation.
Because no one there had been aware that Hiryuu sister Souryuu had been accompanying her here; now knowing this Miles then turned this full gaze to Belfast, who without so much as a word spoken between them knew what she must do.
Knowing this, the maid simply gave him a small nod and left the room, leaving Hiryuu alone with Miles and Yamato.
To which, understandable, Hiryuu raised an eyebrow as if to inquire why Belfast had left them; to which Miles had to explain.
"I'm sorry Hiryuu, we weren't aware that Souryuu was with you. Belfast is heading out to see if she can locate her." Miles started to explain before she was then cut off.
"And if she does, I will be shelling her." The Empresses of the sea stated much to everyone's shock.
"Yamato; may I remind you that this IS her sister you're talking about!" Miles said, reminding the Empresses about just what she was suggesting.
"Have you forgotten about the Siren tech that was installed in Hiryuu's rigging Shikikan? What's not to say that Souryuu herself isn't in the similar state?" Yamato replied, brushing aside what Miles had said to him.
As the battleship did have a point, as even during his time in Azur Lane Miles knew that Siren infecting Ship-girls rigging with their tech had been a major issue. As it had taken a number of Ship-girls to restrain the afflicted girl and transport them back to base to have it removed. This often meant cutting out the compromised spots wholesale.
In Hiryuu's case she had been extremely lucky, as she had been tired, injured, and hadn't been thinking straight at that time.
But who was to say they would be luck twice?
Miles also seemed to recognize this reality as well. Even so this was definitely something that the two of them would have to private talk over later, as Miles knew there was nothing to be gained by fighting over this issue at the moment.
"If that is the case Yamato, then we'll deal with that later. But wasn't it you that said that we should focus on the task at hand?" Miles inquired, as he turned her words from earlier back on her.
To which Yamato gave him a small smile, as she herself knew that this wasn't something to squab over until they had more information. Besides there was more important things that they needed to know, such as learning as to how two sisters had become separated in the first place. As Yamato knew that Hiryuu and Souryuu we're nearly inseparable due to their position in the fleet, and also due to the fact that they were sisters so they wouldn't of leave each other on a mission.
At least not willingly; so knowing this the battleship knew that something big must've happened to force the two sisters apart.
"Indeed, so Hiryuu would you mind continuing your tail? As we must know what has taken place." Yamato said, pushing the carrier for more information.
But for a moment the two of them locked eyes, as it was obvious that Hiryuu had most likely hadn't taken Yamato's comments regarding her sister well. Well on the other hand; Yamato wasn't well for her tack when it came to people, as such it tended to cause her some problems.
But when Hiryuu took a quick glance over to Miles how gave her a small nod, did she let out a breath.
"Fine, but we will talk about this later sensei," Hiryuu said this while looking at Yamato before she continued her talk before it had gotten off topic. "Anyway, I alongside my sister was a part the task force meant to deal with the Unions secret weapons project. Because it was explained to use that if we failed to destroy it let along slow it down it progress, it claimed that it would cost us the war." The carrier explained to both people present.
"Impossible," Miles was the first to say this, "A weapon than capable of signal handily ending a war? Please, we've been trying to find one like that for decades, so that we could threaten the Sirens into backing off." Miles skepticism with what Hiryuu had said was well founded.
As he had been promised such weapons during their war with the Sirens, and he was most certain that his predecessor had also had his fill of promises wonder weapons that would end up changing the course of the war. But they never did, leaving them to mostly rely on the older and more proven methods available to them.
Still it could be argued that the Kansan were the only real weapon that had changed the entire course of the war with the Sirens. Because despite as cruel as it might sound: when as Ship-girl went down she didn't bring a ship full of men with her.
This had been one of the many reasons as to why Ship-girls were treated differently depending on their country of origin. As each on put a different value on them; this was something that Miles and many others had been trying to change.
"Even so Shikikan; Akagi seemed more than certain on this matter. Still I'm certain that if the Board of Admiral's didn't believe this as well then they wouldn't have authorized this mission." Hiryuu assured Miles, as the two of them were more than aware of the Empire's current position in the ongoing war.
But before Miles could continue further; Yamato interrupted him to interject her own opinion on this matter. Also there was another thing the battleship needed to know before she reached her own conclusions.
For the battleship seemed to sensing that there was more to this so call, raid that Hiryuu was aware of.
"For my part, I only wish to know the full scale of the operation which took place." Yamato then stated.
"What part of the operation do you want to know more sensei?" Hiryuu then inquired.
Because from the sound of it, it seemed that Yamato was looking for something in particular about this mission Hiryuu had under taken.
"I just want to know the names of Kansen and all offices involved that were involved. That is all," Yamato stated simply.
Because depending on the information Hiryuu gave her, Yamato might be able to confirm or dispel a number of theories and rumors that she had been hearing for quite some time now. As honestly, Yamato was hoping that these rumors were proven incorrect.
As a confirmation of this rumors would signal a change in the very nature of the conflict as a whole, but not only for herself, but for Miles, Hiryuu, and every other person that remotely had a connection with the war between the Sakura Empire and the Eagle Union.
So Yamato had to know the names of who was involved with this whole mess!
"Just so you're aware sensei, I didn't have the full roast as to everyone involved; mostly just my fellow Ship-girls." Hiryuu informed Yamato in case this was important.
"Whatever you give me will be enough; I just need an idea as to who was there." The battleship assured her.
At which point Hiryuu sighed and started listing names as Yamato started kept a mental track of them.
The battleship also took note of the rather large number of high level navel brass that was involved with this operation. As there was far more of them then would usually be involved with this type of raid that Hiryuu had described to them.
As such this left Yamato with only one conclusion, one she had been hope had been nothing more than mere rumor that sailors told themselves to pass the time as they travel.
But no all Yamato could do was sighed; as the last piece of a puzzle had finally fallen into place for her.
From the scraps of inform she had been able to gather from rumors, radio, and those still willing to risk associating with her to pass along news from the war cabinet. Yamato was now left with one inescapable fact, and honestly she felt like an utterly fool for not seeing this coming from Akagi.
As she could now see that this hadn't been a simple raid. No it had been an operation to purge of the navy elements that would oppose what Akagi was doing. Something that reflected well on Hiryuu and her sister Souryuu that Akagi would signal them out for this mission. As to Yamato this meant that the sister of the second carrier division could be trusted; especially considering the fact that Akagi had put in a failsafe to ensure that the two sisters wouldn't return alive from their assigned mission.
"That's enough Hiryuu," Yamato then lowered her head and took a pull of her pipe, "I have everything that I needed." She said as she blew out the smoke from her nose.
All the while she tried to figure out how she explained what she had concluded, while making sure everyone presents could understand gravity of what she was saying. Which mean that battleship would probably have to start from the very beginning; as much as that might irk her.
But it was the only way that Yamato could ensure they understood what she was telling them. As they both needed to hear it, no matter how long, hard or heartbreaking this might be to hear.
'I wish that you were here with me sister. You were always better at these things.' Yamato thought to herself, as she then took the plunge as she started down the path she knew that couldn't be avoided.
"Miles," Yamato started paused and started over, "No Alex, Hiryuu I have something I must tell you both." Yamato couldn't look them in the eyes as she said this.
As Yamato could see that they were low key worried now; both for completely different reasons. As Miles would be alarmed at the use for his first name, as he knew what that meant. While Hiryuu was trying to hide it, be she low key panicking. As having never seen her sensei talking in this way before.
"What is it?" The words came out of Miles mouth.
Honestly Yamato wasn't surprised, as Miles always seemed to be the one to recover the fastest from this kind of surprises.
"It seems that something important is taking place within the Empire." Yamato was rather vague as she stated this.
As she wanted them to teases the answer out of her. Which thankfully Hiryuu started with a well placed comment.
"As in a change in the Empires military strategy sensei; because if that is indeed the case, then the Empire's going to lose rather quickly," Hiryuu commented.
As she would know the Sakura Empire military position better than most; especially considering the fact that she had been a part of its military only days before.
"I believe that will be part of it. But, no, I don't believe that this is the case." Yamato said as she continued to tease out more questions.
To which Hiryuu once again obliged, and with the one she had been expecting.
"Is this related to all the names that I gave you?" Hiryuu then inquired.
To which Yamato responded to her question with another question.
"Doesn't it strike you as odd that so many important personal and, Kansen devoted to this endeavor?" Yamato then asked them.
"I did know a couple of those names," Miles commented as he tried to figure out just what Yamato was getting at.
"I would be surprised if you didn't," Yamato replied off handedly, as she then wonder just how much more she would have to explain before they got it.
"But why send them on a suicide run?" Hiryuu then asked aloud.
As which point Yamato knew that it was time to ask the final question, as she had seen a flash of recognition in her Shikikan eyes.
"Why indeed," Yamato echoed as she took a pull of her pipe, "Why send so many to their deaths? But when you look at it they have something in common with one another. Don't they Alex?" As Yamato said this, she watched as Miles face drained of colour with every word said.
As he finally realized as to what she was implying, to which he immediately asked her. All the while he hoped that he had drawn the wrong conclusion from what Yamato had been laying out for them to see.
"You're not saying what I think you're saying; are you Yamato?" Miles asked, sounding a little despite as he said so hoping against hope that it wasn't what she was suggesting.
But it wasn't to be. As Yamato known they couldn't ignore what she knew to now be fact and Miles especially. So it was with some reluctance's that she finally spoke.
"I'm sorry Alex; but there's no other conclusion that I can come to. From what Hiryuu told me, and from what rumors and contacts I have in Empire. It's clear to me that Akagi has launched a military coup." This announcement from the Empresses of the sea was met with deafening silence by everyone in the room.
As neither Miles nor Hiryuu could find their voice, as what Yamato was proposing was indeed the true; then this was nothing short of a watershed moment in this war, and everyone in this room knew it.
Still no one there wanted to believe it, but they couldn't as Yamato had made it unavoidable to do so.
Even so it was something of a surprise that when Hiryuu finally found her voice, as she asked a question that still showed her shock at what she had just been told.
"She's done what?" Hiryuu asked in complete disbelief, as a sense of dread finally fell upon her.
As what Yamato had said had answered many questions for her; still Hiryuu hoped to whatever Gods were listening to her would prove Yamato wrong.
But unfortunately the world didn't work in such a way. A fact that Yamato knew all too well, even so the battleship knew that there were often ways to soften the blow of the reality, something she was going to attempt to do for her fellow warrior maiden. Even so Yamato knew that she had to choice her next words with great care.
"I'm sorry Hiryuu, but I'm afraid that Akagi has made a bid to take full power in the Empire. I fear not even the Emperor can oppose her now." Yamato tired to explain this as gentle as possible.
But Yamato wasn't her sister Musashi or Shinano, as she lacked that seemingly special touch they had when it came to this sort of things. As the carrier of Sakura Empire drew back from her, not wanting to believe what she was hearing.
"It can't be! I know Akagi as had her own agenda; but to do this? No! I don't believe that she would betray the Empire in this way!?" Hiryuu cried out in obvious denial of what Yamato had just told her.
But as much as Hiryuu wanted to denial what Yamato was telling her, she couldn't. As there was nothing she could say to dispute what her sensei was saying, as Hiryuu knew that things between Akagi and the other factions in the Empire had reaching a boiling point for some time ago. Still what she found it hard to believe was the way in which things had boiled over. And just what Akagi and her faction were willing to do to resolve this issue.
Even so Hiryuu did expect to face the wrath of her sensei for disrespecting her, but when she finally mustered the courage to look her in the face, the carrier was surprise to find that Yamato's fact wasn't coloured with angry or frustrated she had expected to find; but instead Hiryuu saw something she never thought her sensei was capable of feeling: sympathy.
"Hiryuu, my child," Yamato then reached out to gently corset her face, "We both know as to why you and your sister were chosen by Akagi for this." Yamato said softly as she tried her best to comfort Hiryuu.
But at that moment Hiryuu didn't want Yamato's empty words. As all she wanted at that moment was for Belfast to come bursting through that doorway with Souryuu in her arms. As the carrier didn't care as to what state she was in at this point; as she just wanted her sister back.
Obviously the fact that Yamato's words didn't have their intended effect shown clearly on the carriers face, as both Miles and the battleship tried to comfort her. But Hiryuu didn't want their empty words; as she just wanted her sister back.
'You said that you would be right behind me.' Hiryuu thought this to herself over and over again all the while fighting back tears.
As the carrier tried to come to terms with the reality she now faced. A part of her knew that something had been wrong with the last mission, but had gone along with it anyway, as she didn't want to believe that anything was wrong.
In fact before the mission Akagi herself had allowed the two of them back into the war cabinet and even allowed them to sit in one some of the meetings, even allowed them to speak!
But now the lone carrier realized what she had been doing and felt like an idiot for not being more suspicions of what Akagi had been doing given how she had treated them in the past; still Hiryuu then turned to look at Miles to gauge his reaction to all this.
Needless to say you could imagine the carriers surprise when she saw that he also had been taken completely surprise by Akagi power play as well. This was a small comfort all things considered, as it meant that she hadn't been the one who had been taken off guard by what had happened.
Still this did nothing to numb the pain that she felt over this stunning betrayal. As finally, as much as Hiryuu tried to fight the pain, the fear, and the betrayal, it finally broke her down as the carrier finally began to openly weep.
As she weeping tear for her country, for herself, and mostly important for the loss of her sister because of her actions.
For there was nothing she could do to change any of it. Miles for his part tried to comfort her by placing his hand on her shoulder; but instead he found himself drawn into her grasp.
As she then crushed him in her embrace, all the while he could hear her muffled sobs. All the while Miles stroked her head as he looked over at Yamato.
"Amagi needs to be informed of what's taken place." Miles said without thinking.
As this was the last think he should've said around the grieving carrier, as Hiryuu now had a target for all her pent up anger and grief. As she then released Miles from her grip and looked up at him with a face that seemed to be a mix of sadness and disbelief at what she had just heard.
"You're all joking right? The bitch is fucking here! While we died for her; SHE WAS FUCKING HERE!" Hiryuu then screamed in outrage, as all her momentary sadness was now gone, replaced with outrage over what she had just learned.
Because the carrier couldn't fucking believe it! As while they had been fighting and been dying on the field of battle; Amagi the supposed reason they were in this mess in the first place had been hear all the time. Hiryuu was beyond furious to learn this, as to known while they had been suffering; Amagi had been her safe and without so much as a care in the God damn world!
"Hiryuu, you have to listen to me. You can't blame her for-," That was as far as Miles got before he got cut off.
As any chance he had of having a rational conversation with Hiryuu was already gone; as she was already too fueled by pain and grief to think straight, as she continued lashing out at the object of her fury.
"Why the fuck not Alex! Why shouldn't I be angry at her, as she cost me my fucking God damn SISTER!" Hiryuu snapped at him.
But before Miles could reply Yamato step in to handle her junior.
"Because if there's anyone that you should be angry at; then it should be me." Yamato snapped back, immediately grabbing the carrier's full attention.
As she hadn't been expecting this, even so the carrier recovered quickly and shot back.
"Why's that then? What the hell could've you done that Nagato couldn't? How do I know that you're not simply covering for that bitch?" Hiryuu called Yamato bluff.
To which she had to restrain herself before answering, as the Empress of the sea had to remind herself as to what the carrier had just been through. Less Yamato decided that the rabbit looked better without that seemingly smug look on her tear filled face.
"Because, I could've done something to prevent this, but I didn't." There was a note of bitterness in the Yamato's voice as she said this.
As it was obvious that Yamato regarded the fact as a sore spot, as she had allowed this opportunity to prevent all this from happening, but failed to do so.
"So why didn't you then? Why did you allow this all to happen?" Hiryuu hissed between clenched teeth.
Because if Yamato could've done something, then why hadn't she done it?
"Simply because of the bane of humanity for generations: politics." Yamato stated simply; the frustration leaking from her words.
As this was true, as Yamato had failed to see what Akagi and her faction were doing in time to do anything; as by the time she had, the great battleship had found herself in the same position as the Sakura Empire's lead ship Nagato; as despite her position in the navel hierarchy, both of them found themselves in a position to really do anything to prevent Akagi and her faction from pursing their agenda.
Because at that point if either she or Nagato had attempted to force the issue there would've been the real risk that they might actually set off a chain of events that could possibly of lead to civil war within the Empire.
This fact wasn't lost on Hiryuu; partly because she of how close Elizabeth came to falling due to her own meddling in politics.
Still this wasn't enough for Hiryuu to accept; mostly because she was still looking for soft walls to punch. As Hiryuu knew that she couldn't find any with either Yamato or Miles she simply used the easiest target for her all grief.
Akagi sister: Amagi.
"What's her excuse then? Was Amagi simply sidelined for her sisters' life like you were sensei? Or is it that she just ignorant of what's been done in her name!" Hiryuu throw out accusation.
But before Yamato could remind her junior of her place, it came as a surprise as Miles suddenly rose up in Amagi defense.
"Don't you think Amagi already knows that? Don't you think she has to live with the fact that her sister became a monster she so fear! You want to know why she can't do anything about Akagi, Hiryuu. Simply she fucking can't; as that's how bad things are and how weak Amagi is. And you know what, Akagi knows it." Miles snapped at Hiryuu.
Because Miles was more than aware the so call reason as to why this war had been declared. But everyone knew the truth as to what it had happened; and honestly it surprised Miles that it hadn't happened sooner.
But if the Sirens were good for anything, it was giving humanity a common enemy to rally against.
Still with their lack of activities in the last couple of years, the nations had started to fight among themselves as resources shortages finally started to hit home for them.
Even so this was the time for Miles to dwell on the reality of what had lead to this mess; as Hiryuu responded in a way that he didn't expect.
"… I'm sorry Miles, I never thought of it that way." Hiryuu admitted.
As it had never really crossed Hiryuu's mind as to what Amagi had thought about all this. As she and the rest of the Sakura Empire had if course heard about this so called resurrection of Amagi; but thus news had come on the heels of what could've easily have been called a military disaster; which had seen a dozen mass produced ships and Ship-girls either heavy damaged or sunk. As such many thought it to be propaganda in order to keep up morale more than anything.
So the carrier hadn't thought about what Amagi might've thought about this whole situation. Thinking about it even now Hiryuu could only imagine what Amagi was going through, knowing what every battle, shell fired, and every person dying in this conflict was because done so in her name.
Hiryuu couldn't imagine how she would respond if placed in the same situation. Still as she was thinking this through; Miles continued to speak.
"I'm not asking you forgive her Hiryuu. Just talk to her before passing judgment, if you still hate her for what she's caused I can understand." Miles said, as he knew this was probably the best arrangement he could get from her.
As he knew that Hiryuu still might come to blame Amagi for her sisters' action even after talking with Amagi. But so long as the two of them could come to an understanding then he could live with this outcome.
But before they could continue on with this conversation, Yamato seemed to perk up in a way that Miles had seen when Ship-girls where getting massages from one another.
"What is it Yamato?" Miles inquired as he waited for her to tell him what was happening.
It took her a moment to find her voice. As Yamato was seemingly still trying to make sense of the massage she was getting, as it took a great deal of mental power to do this sort of thing; especially when a Kansen didn't have their rigging equipment with them at the time.
"It's Belfast Shikikan," Yamato muttered as she seemed to be looking out into space. "It seems that a Union task force has entered our waters." Yamato explained the situation that Belfast was currently reporting to her.
"Have they explained what they're here?" Miles then inquired as he got a sinking feeling in his gut.
A feeling that only grew stronger due to Yamato response.
"No; but they threaten to fire on her if they weren't allowed to meet with you, immediately." Yamato then informed him.
As the two of them then locked eyes with at one another, as they both knew what this likely meant.
But before Miles could reply to Yamato, Hiryuu then reached out and grabbed Miles arm immediately get his undivided attention.
"Shikikan," The trembling voice of Hiryuu could be heard now. "D-Don't let them take me. I-I become your concubine, bed warmer, ANYTHING! J-just please; don't let them take me." She then pleaded with her former commander.
Who hear something that he had near head in the carrier's voice before: pure fear.
Which only cemented the fact that whatever they had done on their mission the Union was so bad that that Hiryuu was convinced that being her former commanders slave was better then what the Union had planned for her should they get their hands on her.
Needless to say it took Miles a moment to take in what Hiryuu had said to him. As it was obviously shocking to say the least, still once he had recovered he then placing his hand on her shoulder and gave it what he hope would be interpreted as comforting gesture by her; as he then turned to the only other person in the room.
"Yamato, I'm going to need you to go and take Leipzig onto your ship." Miles then said, though this sounded more like an order then anything.
As you could imagine Yamato didn't exactly take kindly to being spoken to in such a matter.
"For what reason dose thou think thy have claim on who can and can't come onto my ship?" The battleship asked hotly.
Thankfully Miles stood his ground on this; no mean feat considering that Yamato was irritated with him and seemed close to striking him.
"She's not here officially," Miles started to explain before Yamato interrupted him.
"What about her?" Yamato then gestured to Hiryuu.
As the battleship obvious was asking whither the carrier would be joining them as well. For the two of them knew that the Union wouldn't have sent a task force here for a simple chat.
Knowing this Miles then looked down at the white haired still grasping his hand. As the Grand Admiral knew that the carrier future was very much in his hand, and knowing this he saw one thing that he could possibly do given the circumstances; but this plan depend on the answer he got from got from Hiryuu.
Because if the answer that Miles got from her was a no; then he would have to go with a hastily created plan B.
"Hiryuu, are you well enough to stand?" Miles then asked.
To which Hiryuu immediate sense what he was thinking, as she then looked up at him with a weak smile.
"Not without some help." The rabbit admitted sheepishly.
But that was enough for Miles, as he knew that once Yamato collected Leipzig the two of them could quickly transport Hiryuu to Yamato's ship if there were any issues. Thankfully Yamato seemed to understand as to what he was thinking, as she then spoke up.
"I'll see to that. As for you Miles, may I suggest that you go and get ready to greet our guest?" Yamato said in her usually way of dismissing someone.
"Yamato; thank you," Miles said as he started to make his way to the door.
But halfway there Yamato voice reached him.
"Do not thank me Shikikan, for it will be up to you as to whether this endeavor succeeds. Will be completely up to you, so I suggest that you leave and get those papers ready," Yamato reminded him of this fact.
Something that Miles was all too aware of. So with one last look at the two women behind him, Miles then left the room to get things in order before the Union's fleet arrived in his port.
Because if Miles was being honest with himself; he fully explained this meeting to be a rather unpleasant meeting between both parties.
That's all she wrote, I hope that you enjoyed it.
Sorry if this wasn't the most exciting thing in the world, be we got a bit more back ground on Miles, the war, and most importantly everyone's reaction to Akagi's actions within the Empire.
Still I do hope that you all enjoyed this chapter regards, as we will see what will happen with the Union next chapter. This is kind of obvious when you think about what Hiryuu said what just took place.
Also the two comments sorry that the last chapter felt like filler, but I will admit that I can get carried away sometimes, still I'm glad that you let me know what the chapter felt like, as the feedback does help.
Anyway I'll leave you all with that, and until next time have a good one.