Ch. 68: Third Player
10:43 AM, July 9th, 1926, Forbidden City, Peking, China
Due to the attack launched by the Black Army, the Warlords gathered at a meeting table inside a small safe room within the palace complex. Accompanying them was the Japanese Prime Minister and his entourage along with the three Western representatives. Because all of them had been exposed to the smoke earlier, everyone was sporadically coughing and rubbing their eyes.
Some of the Warlords along with some Chinese officers in the room could be seen answering phones constantly and updating each other on the situation. Others could be seen gathered at a map of Peking and the surrounding region hanging on the wall marking down locations where the airship was spotted.
"So is it true the Premier was kidnapped?" Ashford, who was standing next to General Yu, asked.
"It appears to be." General Yu replied. "No one in the hall has seen him since the smoke went off. The last time he was spotted was by a guard outside. According to him he saw a figure that matched the Premier's description being forced onto the airship that surprisingly landed."
"I'm still in disbelief that someone, especially Zero of all people, managed to infiltrate the most protected spot in all of China." Ashford replied. "I mean how did he manage to break into the PA system?"
"According to the team of guards sent to investigate the PA control room, they said they found a phonograph with a record in it placed next to the microphone along with a soldier. While the soldier claims he has absolute no memory of how he got there or what he did, we suspect he set up phonograph and played the pre-recording of Zero's speech on the PA system."
"Essentially Zero was never here at all." General Zhao interjected.
"I see." said Ashford. "And how do you plan to find and retrieve the Premier?"
"We've ordered all personnel in and outside the city to report the airship's location and direction if spotted. From there we mark it on our maps in hope of tracking down it down and determining where it's heading." Yu explained. "Once we find out where exactly they will land, we'll send our forces in and launch a rescue operation."
"So where is the airship headed?"
"The multiple sightings indicate that the airship is seemingly towards the southeast." General Guo, who was standing nearby, reported. "As to where it's going, that has still yet to be determined."
"Well I hope you get him back soon unharmed. Remember we still need his signature to officiate the treaty."
"You have nothing to fear sir. Like you, the last thing we want to see is the Premier harmed in any way."
"That's assuring to hear." Ashford said. "By the way, but was that recording of Zero talking about in regards to this peace agreement being built upon "deception, treason, and lies"?
Generals Yu, Zhao, and Guo skittishly perked their heads up upon hearing the question.
"Oh that...uh...nothing to worry about." Yu answered. "Just plain slander and propaganda meant to weaken us. Isn't that right?"
Both Zhao and Guo silently nodded their heads in approval.
"Ok. Very well then." Ashford replied. "Now if you can excuse me, I have some things to discuss with the others."
He then left and headed back to Garnier and Stephens who were standing at the other side of the room.
"Do you think he's caught onto our plans?" Zhao whispered into Yu's ear.
"I don't think so. If he had he definitely would've questioned us even further." Yu quietly replied.
"Let's just pray he, Garnier, and Stevens keep believing us." Guo whispered. "If they find out what the treaty actually entails, you can bet they will immediately rescind their support."
"Which is why it's imperative they don't find out." said Yu. "That's why we need to get back the Premier before they can use him to expose our plans."
"But even if the Premier exposes everything, couldn't we just tell the public it was a forced confession?" Zhao asked.
"We could General." answered Yu. "However one of Prime Minister Wakatsuki's bodyguards has reported he saw one of the Black Army agents flee with a copy of the treaty. The Black Army will undoubtedly print the entire thing in the newspapers and distribute it all over. We won't be able to effectively defend ourselves if they use both sources."
"So besides tracking this airship and waiting to see where it lands, what else can we do?" Guo asked.
"As of now the only other thing we can do is gather our resources and get them ready for instant deployment." Yu answered.
"I've already taken care of that." Zhao answered. "My superiors in the south are already in the process of sending us several companies and planes from the Hunan and Jiangxi provinces."
"Good. We're definitely going to need them if we're going to stop Zero's scheme."
Sitting at a table in the corner on the other side of the room was Japanese Prime Minister Wakatsuki, who was having a conversation on one of the safe room's telephones, and several of his aides. Meanwhile, Daisuke, Matsuda, and Nishimura stood nearby and kept protecting the Prime Minister until further instructions were received. Because of the fight he got into before, a small cut along with a few bruises was visible on Daisuke's face.
"Can't believe Zero managed to pull a fast one on us again." said Matsuda. "Was absolutely sure this location would be impenetrable no matter how many miracles Zero could make."
"Well somehow he did." Nishimura added. "And now he has both the Chinese Premier and the treaty in his possession."
"Really sorry for that guys." Daisuke replied. "I literally had the one stealing the treaty cornered. Even managed to disarm them and take off their gas mask."
"Don't feel bad about yourself." Matsuda replied. "Remember your primary duty at the time was defending the Prime Minister."
"But they only got away by distracting me for a few seconds. Officers such as ourselves should be disciplined enough to not let something as small as a distraction get in their way."
"Pardon me, but what's so unique about this person who stole the treaty and fought you?" Nishimura asked.
"Well the person I was fighting was a girl who I met with a few years ago." Daisuke answered. "Her name is Kae Kinoshita. I danced and talked with her at a ball at the Akasaka Palace during the funeral-reception for Prime Minister Hara Takashi."
"And you're sure it was her you saw earlier today?"
"Absolutely. There's no way I could mistake someone as beautiful as her."
"Were you aware she was working with the Black Army when you met her?" Matsuda asked.
"Of course not! When we first met, she presented herself as the personal secretary to that American businessman Lelouch Lamperouge that was secretly supporting the Black Army."
"I remember hearing about him." Nishimura interjected. "He caused quite a commotion at that event. I was told he was able to cause a blackout, which he used as cover for his escape."
"The fact that he also escaped a heavily secure palace makes you think he was trained by Zero himself." Matsuda added.
"Anyway she disappeared during the commotion involving Mr. Lamperouge. Never thought I was ever going to see her again. Didn't really think of it much at the time, but I eventually wondered why someone as young and beautiful such as herself was working with someone who supports Zero and the Black Army."
"I therefore assume this question flashed in your mind when you saw her earlier today?" Matsuda asked.
"Yeah. I mean I don't why, but there's just something about her that fascinates me."
"But remember she is a member of the Black Army and therefore our enemy." Nishimura stoically replied. "Don't let your emotions interfere with your duties."
Daisuke, despite wanting to talk to with Kae again to figure out her motive and reasoning, knew Nishimura was right and had to treat Kae no different than any other enemy on the battlefield.
11:19 AM, Bohai Bay
The airship carrying Zero, the Zero Division, and the Chinese Premier continued to cruise through the sky above the Bohai Bay. As a result the only thing that could seen below from within the airship was water along with a few steamers and fishing boats. The busy Port of Tanggu along with its many wharves and ships could also be seen in the distance from the airship's rear windows.
"So you said you had a fight with Colonel Daisuke?" Park asked.
"Yeah, well I think I did." Kae answered. "The guy I was fighting answered someone calling out Daisuke's name. I also caught a quick glimpse of him through the smoke."
"Wasn't he the guy you danced with at that ball a few years back?" Roh asked.
"Don't remind me of that." Kae replied. "Still can't believe I did that and allowed him to make advances towards me."
It was then the airship started to descend, causing everyone in the gondola car to suddenly feel an upward force exerting all over their bodies.
Kae then stood up and approached Zero. "So I'm guessing we're close?"
"That's correct. The Kkachi is just right ahead." Zero answered as he pointed to it in the distance.
Formerly a battlecruiser, the Kkachi was a large aircraft carrier that sat in the middle of the bay. Stripped of it's main guns and funnels, it instead had a long, rectangular flight deck that rested on a multi-level hangar. It also had several small caliber naval and anti-aircraft guns positioned along the side of the flight deck. Two large caliber twin turret guns could also be seen positioned near the bow on either side of the flight deck.
Upon seeing the airship in the distance, the crew of the Kkachi immediately went to the flight deck to await its arrival. Once the airship got low and close enough, ropes connected to it were detached and allowed to drop onto the flight deck. All the crew members on the flight deck immediately grabbed and pulled on the ropes with all their might in order to keep the airship in place as it continued to descend. They then frantically took the ropes and started tying them around multiple moorings that dotted the flight deck.
With the airship fully secured and resting on the flight deck, one of the crew members opened the gondola door. Zero, followed by Kae, Roh, Park, Jeong, and Du immediately hopped out.
"Glad to see all of you made it back unharmed!" the crew member said loudly as he saluted Zero. "How did the mission go?"
"We managed to capture Premier Du and retrieve the treaty! Anyway how has everything been out here?"
"Besides the occasional fishing boat passing by, everything has been quiet out here! No hostile forces have been detected since we arrived!"
"Good! The less commotion the better!"
Zero then excused himself and headed towards the carrier's island. Still followed by Kae and the others, he then opened the metal door and stepped inside where two flight of stairs could be seen. One flight led up to the bridge while the other led down to the decks and hangar below. Additionally several crew members could be seen rushing up and down the stairs.
"Excuse me, but what should we do the Premier?" Jeong, who was pushing a frightened Du from behind, asked as Zero was about to walk up the stairs.
"Detain him in one the cabins down below. Make sure his door is locked and guarded at all times." Zero sternly ordered.
"Very well. C'mon!"
Dragging the Chinese Premier with him, Jeong separated from the group and headed down the stairs leading to the lower decks.
Zero, Kae, Park, and Roh meanwhile walked up the flight stairs. Crew members walking down the stairs from the bridge to the decks below immediately saluted moved to the side upon seeing Zero to let him pass. Once they made it to the top, they entered a doorway that led to the bridge.
Inside the bridge were several Black Army crew members either inspecting all the equipment and gauges, observing the waters around them through binoculars, reviewing maps and sea charts, or standing by the controls awaiting for further orders. Amongst them was Kim Gu, who could be seen overseeing all the preparations and giving out commands.
"Seems like everything around here is going according to plan."
"Ah Zero!" Kim Gu replied. "So glad to see you. I assume you got the Premier and the treaty?"
"Correct. The Premier is currently detained in one of the cabins below deck."
He then signaled Kae to hand the leather-bound book containing the treaty in her possession, which she did without hesitation. Once she handed it over, she, along with Park and Roh, were dismissed.
"As for the treaty, you can see for yourself."
Zero then handed the leather-bound book to Kim, who proceeded to open it and look at the document.
"I shouldn't be surprised after all I've seen you do before, but I can't believe you managed to pull this off." Kim Gu replied with awe and amazement.
"We're one step closer to exposing the treachery of the Chinese Warlords and paving the way for a united China not under the yoke of Japan."
"Let's just hope the Premier cooperates with us and doesn't resist."
"That shouldn't be a problem. The Premier is a timid and weak man who is only used to receiving orders from the Warlords. With them cut off, he is practically lost and easily susceptible to pressure. We can easily capitalize on that and convince him to comply with our instructions.
"And should that ultimately fail, I have other means to make him do what we want without any resistance." Zero answered as he slightly tapped his right eye.
Kim Gu, understanding what Zero was hinting to, silently nodded his head in approval.
"Anyway, now all we have to do is get back to Shanghai." Kim Gu replied. "Hopefully Chiang's attack from the south will distract the Warlords long enough for us to get out of here."
"Speaking of Chiang I better send him the news of our success."
Zero then walked towards a telephone hanging on the wall, picked it up, and flipped the switch labeled "RADIO ROOM".
Dietrich, who was overseeing final inspection of the aircraft carrier's radio in the radio room with Ronan, instantly stopped with what he was doing upon hearing the telephone ring. He then approached the phone and answered it.
"This is Dietrich speaking."
"Dietrich, it's Zero. How's the communications system look so far?" Zero asked.
"So far so good." Dietrich answered. "Short-range communications have been checked and have been confirmed to be operational. As for long-range communications, we're almost done setting up the new radio transmitter system Ronan developed."
"Speaking of Ronan, I would like to speak with him too."
Dietrich then called over Ronan and gave the phone to him.
"How can I help you Zero?" Ronan asked.
"If I understand correctly this long range communications network will allow us to communicate with Shanghai and our other communication outposts?"
"That's correct. Once it's fully operational we should be able to directly access the telecommunication networks that we've already set up on the mainland." Ronan explained as he held his tobacco pipe in his mouth.
"How long do you think it will take to get the system fully operational?"
"I would say at least one hour." Ronan answered.
"Try to get it done as soon as possible. I need to alert Chiang about our current situation and make sure he's not facing any problems on his end."
"We'll do the best we can."
Zero then hung up the phone and approached Jo and Gang, both of whom could be seen reviewing numerous documents ranging from sea charts and maps to checklists and records on a nearby table.
"Gentlemen, what's our current status?"
"According to the engineering crews down below the steam turbines have been checked and the boilers are ready to be fired up." Gang answered. "Also the navigation team has told me that the charted route is still ok to take.
"What about the guns and planes?"
"All the ammunition and fuel has been accounted for." Jo answered. "All the pilots and gunners are currently on standby."
"I see." Zero said as he slightly nodded his head. "Jo, alert the crew that we are departing. Gang, assist Kim Gu in overseeing activity on the bridge."
"Sir." both men said simultaneously as they saluted.
Jo immediately went to a telephone that connected to the aircraft carrier's PA system. He then picked it up and relayed Zero's order all over the ship. This prompted the entire crew to go into action and immediately man their posts. Crew members in the windlass room activated the hydraulic anchor windlass to raise the anchor while those in the engine room started to light the multiple boilers that powered the Kkachi's turbine engines. Meanwhile the helmsman at the bridge started to turn the wheel and pushed the lever on the engine-order telegraph so it pointed to "Full Ahead".
As the steam turbines started to power up and rapidly spin, a deep humming sound reverberated all over. Additionally plumes of smoke could be seen rising out of exhaust ports on the rear and sides of the Kkachi. Eventually the large aircraft carrier slowly started to speed up and propel itself through the water.
However, unbeknownst to Zero or the crew of the Kkachi, a Chinese patrol boat was observing them in the distance. Upon seeing the giant aircraft carrier start to move, the Captain immediately went to the radio and reported his findings to the mainland.
11:29 AM, Forbidden City, Peking, China
Still situated in the safe room, the Chinese Warlords and numerous officers were still trying to ascertain the location of the Black Army's airship in hope of finding the Premier. Due to the sheer amount of reports they had received, the large regional map hanging on the wall that was being used track the airship was covered in notations, x's, lines, and dots. There was also another map laid out on the table that showed the current movements and positions of their forces.
Meanwhile a Chinese officer could be seen writing down a message while talking on one of the telephones. Once the person on the other end was done speaking, the Chinese officer hung up and approached General Yu who could be seen huddled around the war map with Generals Zhao, Guo, and Ma.
"General, just received a report from one of our coastal garrisons. One of our patrol boats spotted the airship landing on a giant flat ship situated in the Bohai Bay."
"A ship you say?" Yu asked with bewilderment. "Do we have coordinates on its location?"
The officer approached the map on the table and pointed his finger at a seemingly remote location in the middle of the Bohai Bay. "The patrol boat's captain reported the ship was seen around here and was starting to move eastward."
"They must be hoping to pass through the Bohai Strait and reach the Yellow Sea." Ma added.
"We cannot let that happen." Zhao replied. "If they reach the Yellow Sea, they'll effectively be out of range of most of our forces."
"General, I suggest we order all our naval ships in the region to concentrate on the Bohai Sea." Guo suggested. "Once the Black Army's ship arrives there, we can attack them from the north, west, and east. This would force them to head to the coast where we can effectively corner them."
Yu nodded his head in agreement and ordered all ships stationed in the region to head to the Bohai Sea in hope of boxing in the Black Army. He then ordered Zhao to alert all land and aerial forces to be put on standby and be ready for redeployment. To further increase their odds of success, Zhao ordered more forces and equipment be sent up northward.
"So it seems the Black Army now has a large ship with the ability to hold an airship." Matsuda, who overhead Yu's conversation in the distance, said.
"Based on the description given, it's probably an aircraft carrier of some sort." Daisuke added. "Shouldn't be surprised seeing how we know the Black Army is already in possession of numerous aircraft."
"Just how the hell does Zero manage to procure all these things? I mean planes and an airship I can somewhat understand, but an aircraft carrier?"
Suddenly one of Wakatsuki's aides approached Daisuke, Matsuda, and Nishimura. "Pardon me for interrupting, but the Prime Minister requests your presence."
The three officers immediately got up from their seats and walked over to the Japanese Prime Minister, who could be seen holding a telephone handset.
"How can we assist your Excellency?" Daisuke asked as he slightly bowed his head.
"You have a call from the embassy." Wakatsuki replied as he handed the phone to Daisuke.
"The embassy?" Daisuke said with confusion as he took the phone and answered the call. "This is Colonel Michio Daisuke. To whom am I speaking with?"
"Colonel, glad to hear to you are doing fine." said Hirohito on the other end of the line. "I hope Matsuda and Nishimura are doing well."
"Despite suffering some cuts, bruises, and exposure to smoke, we are all doing well your Highness." Daisuke answered.
"That's good to hear. Anyway me and my associates have all been fully updated on the events that have just occurred and are currently observing the situation."
"So what's the plan then? Do you want us to mobilize our forces and assist the Chinese in pursuing Zero and the Black Army?"
"As much as I want to, I'm afraid that's not an option at the moment." Hirohito answered. "Apparently I've been alerted that the Premier's Office has released a statement declaring his kidnapping by the Black Army as an "internal affair". As a result we cannot legally intervene unless they request our assistance."
"An internal affair?" a bewildered Daisuke asked. "Why would they say such a thing? Don't they realize this affects us too?"
"I suspect the Chinese government doesn't want to be perceived as weak and wants to enhance their legitimacy in the eyes of the international community by solving this problem on their own."
"So what do you want me, Daisuke, and Nishimura to do then?"
"As of now I would like you all to escort the Prime Minister to our embassy. Arrangements have already been made for his reception and protection there. After that await for further instructions from either me or my associates."
"Yes Sir!" Daisuke replied as Hirohito finished speaking and hung up on the other end.
12:13 PM, Bohai Sea
Surrounded by nothing but calm waters and open skies, the Kkachi continued moving eastward as it left behind a trail of smoke. Inside Zero could be seen with Kae in the hangar below deck overseeing teams of mechanics maintaining the ShinkirÅ, Hongyeon, and numerous other biplanes that were stored. Due to the limited, narrow space, all the planes had their wings folded back and were perfectly aligned.
"Pretty amazing Ronan and the R&D team built all this in practically a year." Kae said as she was inspecting the Hongyeon's engine.
"Well it was very fortunate we didn't need to construct an entire new ship seeing how that the Russians were willing to sell us a worn-out cruiser." Zero replied. "Anyway, I heard the Hongyeon recently got some new upgrades. How is it now?"
"Really great. The new engine the R&D team installed has definitely improved it's speed and performance. Also the new gun they installed fires at a much faster rate and uses these newly developed armor piercing incendiary bullets. Been told just a few of them can completely destroy an enemy aircraft."
Suddenly the brief sound of static echoed throughout the entire hangar as the ship's PA system turned on. It was then followed by Kim Gu's voice.
"Zero, come to the bridge immediately! There's something urgent you need to check out!"
Immediately Zero quickly excused himself, exited the hangar, and ran up several flight of stairs. Once he arrived at the bridge, he approached Kim Gu.
"What exactly is going on?" Zero asked.
"Our observation teams on the port side have reported that they spotted what appears to be some Chinese warships and planes in the distance." Kim Gu explained.
"What?!" Zero said with disbelief.
He then approached one of the officers keeping watch on the port side and requested his binoculars. The officer complied and handed them over to Zero who proceeded to look through them.
Slowly moving left to right, Zero scanned the horizon and quickly spotted two dozen biplanes heading towards them. Additionally several light cruisers and small gunboats bearing the Chinese flag could be seen in the distance slowly turning so that they would be moving parallel to the Kkachi.
"Helmsman, turn 10 degrees starboard!" Zero yelled out as he put down the binoculars.
He then ran towards the telephone connected to the PA system to address the entire ship.
"This is your captain Zero speaking. As of now several Chinese warships and aircraft are approaching our port side. They are undoubtedly preparing to strike. I want all naval and anti-aircraft guns manned and ready instantly. Meanwhile stop deflating the airship and cut it loose. I want the runway clear for the planes as quickly as possible."
Once done issuing the new orders, he hung up the telephone.
"Damn it! Never expected the Warlords being able to organize their forces and retaliate this fast. Chiang's invasion from the south should've diverted most of their attention away from us." Zero thought to himself. "Something must've happened to him if the Warlords are already focusing more attention on us than on him."
Zero then picked up the phone and called the radio room again.
"Ronan! How much longer till the long-range communications system is completely set up?!"
"About 10 more minutes at max Zero!" Ronan answered as he and his assistant fiddled with various wires and vacuum tubes inside one of the radio transmitters.
After speaking with Ronan, Zero returned to the port side window and resumed observing the Chinese forces in the distance. It was then he was approached by Gang and Jo.
"So what's exactly the plan?" Jo asked.
"We maintain our course to Shanghai and keep the enemy at bay long enough for us to make our escape." Zero answered.
Suddenly the sound of multiple explosions could be heard in the distance. Realizing what he was hearing, Zero immediately instructed the helmsman to take evasive action and warned the entire bridge to brace for impact. Within seconds the entire bridge rocked back and forth slightly while several large plumes of water appeared ahead of or next to the carrier.
"This doesn't make any sense." Gang said as more explosions could be heard in the distance. "According to all our calculations, the Warlords shouldn't have been able to organize such an offensive against us in such a short period time. They've should've been more pre-occupied with the KMT's offensive in the south."
"I'm fully aware of that. That's why I want to contact Chiang Kai-shek as soon as possible and find out what is going on." Zero replied.
He then ordered Gang and Jo to continue overseeing navigation and tactics respectively. Both men instantly saluted before returning to their posts and continue to carry out their duties.
Throughout the entire carrier officers, sailors, gunners, and crew members could be seen scrambling to action while an alarm followed by the announcement "All hands man your battle stations!" could be heard over the PA system. Because the Chinese warships were still trying to fire at them, the crew members would occasionally feel the carrier vibrate slightly due to the shells impacting the water around the vessel and explode.
To make room for the planes to take off, the crew members who oversaw deflating the airship immediately stopped what they were doing and proceeded to untie the ropes holding it in place. To expedite the process, some crew members resorted to grabbing axes and chopping the ropes. Because it was still somewhat filled with gas, the airship freely floated off the flight deck once all the ropes bounding it to the carrier were undone. This prompted the crew members to push it's gondola car off the flight deck's edge so it would float away from the carrier.
As the carrier moved away, the airship could be seen in the distance aimlessly floating over the water. A downward wind current then pushed the airship into the water below, resulting in a large splash to appear. Once it had subsided, all one could see was the airship's partially filled envelope floating on the surface.
Meanwhile some gunners could be seen manning the naval and anti-aircraft guns while others were seen retrieving and loading shells and magazines. Once loaded the officers instructed the gunners to turn and angle the guns so that they were aiming at either the incoming airplanes or the Chinese warships.
"FIRE!" yelled a officer.
"BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!" could be heard as the carrier's multiple naval guns fired a salvo against the multiple warships. While some of the shots missed and instead landed in the water around them, some of them made a direct impact and exploded. Chinese sailors on all of the warships found themselves either being blown apart or burned to death by the resulting explosions.
Additionally a steady "POM-POM-POM-POM!" sound rattled through the air as the anti-aircraft guns fired at the incoming biplanes. Small explosions immediately appeared in front of and around them as the shells fired from the anti-aircraft guns bursted in mid-air. The biplanes instantly suffered damage as they found themselves being pelted with tons of shrapnel.
One of them burst in flames due to it's engine being punctured while another had a part of it's wing blown completely off. Within seconds both biplanes ceased to function and crashed into the water below. To avoid suffering the same fate, some of the other biplanes broke formation and scattered all over to avoid being hit.
As for the ones that didn't, the pilots continued to maintain their course as they did their best to resist the anti-aircraft fire damaging their planes. Once they got close enough, they positioned themselves so the gunners and other crew members working on the flight deck were in their line of sight. They then pulled on the firing trigger, resulting in bullets being sprayed all over.
While most of the bullets ricocheted off the Kkachi's metal structure, some managed to either wound or kill some of the gunners and crew members. The biplanes then rose up, flew over the Kkachi, and prepared to turn around to attack again.
Hearing the alarms going off, the crew members in the hangar below the flight deck filled the multiple planes with fuel as fast they could. Kae, along with other members of the Zero Division, quickly put on their gear and hopped into the cockpits of their planes. At the same time two large elevators that led to the flight deck were also lowered
Using all the strength they could muster, crew members pushed the Hongyeon and one of the many biplanes onto the two lowered elevators. Once they were on, the two elevators rose back up.
The crew members, who were also simultaneously trying to avoid being shot by the Chinese biplanes flying above and around them, then unfolded the wings of both aircraft as they arrived on the flight deck. They then moved the Hongyeon forward and attached it to a hydraulic-powered catapult designed and developed by Ronan. A crew member then spun the propeller while Kae turned the ignition the key. The engine immediately started up, causing the propeller to rapidly spin.
"Everything is all prepared!" one of the crew members yelled out. "Good luck out there!"
"Thanks! Should have no problem taking out these bastards!" Kae replied.
With the Hongyeon ready for take off, the crew members stepped away.
"3...2...1...LAUNCH!" a crew member called out as he activated the catapult."
Kae suddenly felt a sudden force against her body as she and the Hongyeon were shot at great speed across the flight deck. Before it flew off into the water, she pulled on the plane's the control stick. The Hongyeon then flew off the ground and into the air. With Kkachi and the open sea below her, Kae looked for Chinese biplanes she could attack while simultaneously trying to avoid being hit by either enemy or friendly fire.
Meanwhile the crew members on the flight deck below repeated the same process for the other planes stored on the Kkachi. One by one Black Army biplanes were being launched into the sky to assist in warding off the attacking Chinese aircraft and warships. Within moments of the Black Army deploying their planes, several dogfights erupted in the sky.
Standing at the bridge, Zero looked out the window and continued to observe the battle through his binoculars as the sound of multiple guns being fired and airplanes buzzing by filled the air. In the distance he could see several Chinese ships be consumed by flames and emit black smoke as they were being hit by the Kkachi's numerous naval guns. One of the Chinese ships could be seen exploding due to it's munitions catching on fire while several others slowly started to sink.
Meanwhile Black Army and Chinese airplanes were flying all over the sky like flies as they pursued and shot at one another. Occasionally one of them would burst into flames due to being hit and crash into the water below like a meteor.
Additionally large pillars of water were constantly erupting around the Kkachi as multiple enemy shells landed in the water and exploded. Though they weren't direct hits, the entire carrier would vibrate and wobble.
Trying to maintain his balance as he walked across the bridge was Kim Gu who approached Zero.
"Zero, just spoke with Ronan and he says the long-range communications system is almost complete. He just needs to calibrate and tweak a few minor things."
"Good. Once that's operational we can finally find out why Chiang's offensive hasn't diverted attention from us."
Suddenly the entire bridge violently shook as a shell managed to directly impact the Kkachi's hull and explode. Another explosion soon followed as another shell hit one of the anti-aircraft guns, resulting in a giant fireball to consume all those who were near it. Once the fire and smoke dissipated, all that was left was twisted metal and burned corpses.
"Officer, give me a damage report!" Zero yelled out.
"Anti-aircraft gun #4 destroyed! Almost all personnel manning it reported to be dead or severely wounded! As for the hull, it seems to be have been damaged slightly!" the officer replied.
"Retrieve the wounded and alert the repair crew to fix the hull!" Zero ordered before resuming to observe the battle.
Kim Gu, standing beside Zero, looked down at the charred, crumpled metal that used to be an anti-aircraft gun.
"Surprised those shots didn't do too much damage." said Kim Gu.
"I'm not." Zero replied. "The Warlords know we have the Premier on board and the last thing they want to do is kill him. They're probably planning to slow us down and put the Kkachi out of commission so that they can launch a rescue operation. That's why I suspect they are only harassing us with biplanes and hitting us with low caliber shells."
"ZERO! ENEMY WARSHIPS SPOTTED DEAD AHEAD!" yelled an officer at the top of his lungs.
"SEVERAL ENEMY AIRCRAFT ALSO SPOTTED APPROACHING THE STARBOARD!" yelled another officer.
Zero quickly ran to the front of the bridge, took out his binoculars, and looked out the window. In the distance he could several more Chinese gunboats in the distance heading towards them. He then looked out the starboard-side windows and saw a whole cluster of biplanes closing in.
"Looks like they're trying to corral us like cattle." Kim Gu said as he stood at Zero's side and looked out the window.
"We'll see about that." Zero replied. "Jo, blast the enemy in front of us with the turret guns! Also alert the pilots about the planes incoming from the south!"
"Sir!" said Jo as he proceeded to relay the order.
Receiving their orders to fire on the ships in front of them, the crew members within the two large caliber twin-turret guns scrambled to gather and load the gunpowder bags and shells onto the loading trays. Once loaded, the tray was raised upward into the gun house and both the gunpowder bags and shells were rammed into the gun barrels. As they were doing this, the metal walls, floor, and ceiling were constantly shaking due to the shells making direct hits on the Kkachi.
Once the breechblock was closed, the gunnery officers stationed in each of the turrets looked through the sighting hood. After noting the locations of the Chinese warships and doing some last minute calculations, the gunnery officers relayed the coordinates to the gunners who turned the turret and adjusted the angles of the guns.
"FIRE!" the gunnery officers in both turrets yelled.
Two ear shattering explosions were instantly heard as the guns in each turret jerked back due to the recoil.
Meanwhile the four shells that were shot rocketed towards the Chinese gunboats ahead of them. Three of the four shells shot managed to hit their targets. One gunboat was directly hit by two shells, resulting it to explode and be completely destroyed. Another gunboat was hit with one shell and was damaged so much that it was barely operable.
The remaining Chinese gunboats directly ahead immediately took evasive action and fired back. While half of the shells fired missed and exploded in the surrounding water, the other half hit the Kkachi's bow and front deck, resulting in the metal plates lining the hull being deformed or being covered with puncture holes of various sizes. Similar damage could also be seen with the armor covering both turrets' gun houses.
The gunners in both turrets, despite being slightly rattled by the incoming shots, resumed with their duties and loaded another shell into each of the guns and fired another round at the Chinese gunboats. Both sides repeated this cycle, resulting in more gunboats being destroyed and the Kkachi suffering more damage.
In the sky above, the Hongyeon was pursuing a Chinese biplane all over like a hawk chasing it's prey. The Chinese pilot tried swerving chaotically all over in an attempt to simultaneously lose the Hongyeon and avoid being hit with anti-aircraft fire from below. Nevertheless, Kae managed to keep up with the enemy plane and keep it in her eyesight.
Once the Chinese biplane was directly in the crosshairs of the Hongyeon's guns, Kae pulled the trigger, prompting a stream of bullets to be shot at the aircraft. Multiple puncture holes suddenly appeared all over the biplane's fuselage and wings as a result of being hit. Because the bullets fired by the Hongyeon were incendiary, the biplane instantly exploded when one of the bullets manage to hit the fuel tank and ignite the fuel inside it.
With her target destroyed, Kae instantly looked around for another target. It was then she spotted a Black Army biplane being pursued and shot at in the distance. Seeing the particular numbers painted on it's side, Kae immediately recognized the plane as Roh's.
She then pushed and turned the steering wheel hard to the left in order to have the Hongyeon dive downwards and make a hard left turn. Once the Chinese biplane pursuing Roh was above her, she quickly pulled and turned the steering wheel hard to the right to make the Hongyeon rapidly turn around and ascend. As a result of this maneuvering, the Hongyeon was approaching the enemy biplane from below.
Kae pulled the trigger again once the Chinese biplane was in her line of sight. Like before, the incendiary bullets managed to hit the engine, ignite the fuel, and cause the biplane to explode into many pieces.
"Hey Kae, was that you who shot that plane down?" Roh asked over the Hongyeon's radio.
"Yeah it was. Saw you being chased and shot at in the distance, so I figured I could help out!" Kae replied.
"Well I didn't need it! I was doing perfectly fine on my own before you intervened!"
"Really? Because you could've fooled me!"
"Well just to let you know I already had a plan to..."
"Attention all pilots!" Jo interrupted over the radio. "More enemy planes have been spotted coming from the south! Intercept them immediately!"
Kae immediately turned her head southward and saw in the distance a whole squadron of Chinese biplanes approaching the Kkachi. She then flipped a switch and turned a knob on her radio in order to relay a message to all the Zero Division pilots.
"Ok everyone here's the plan! I want half of you all to come follow me and intercept this new squadron coming from the south! As for the other half, I want you all to stay here and continue defending the ship from the planes coming from the north. I also place the remaining half under the command of Park Man-Young!"
"Don't worry about us Kae! We shouldn't have any problems taking care of these guys while you're gone!" Park said over the radio as he was pursuing the enemy all across the sky.
Kae acknowledged Park's words before turning the steering wheel to the right so the Hongyeon headed towards the south. Following her command, half of the Black Army planes in the air separated from the group defending the airspace right above the ship and followed the Hongyeon. As they charged towards the enemy squadron, the second group of Black Army planes got into a v-shaped Vic formation behind the leading bright red monoplane.
"Alright let me show you that I can fight without needing your help!" Roh told Kae over the radio.
"Oh this will definitely be interesting to see!" Kae replied back.
Within a few seconds of them being in range of one another, both the Black Army and Chinese planes immediately started to fire at one another. One by one planes could be seen bursting into flames and crashing into the water as both sides exchanged a hail of gunfire at one another. As a result, a second cluster of dogfights emerged both the Black Army and Chinese planes broke formation and chased each other.
More Chinese warships attempting to block the Kkachi's path in the distance be pulverized and blown apart as the carrier's two large turret guns fired one round after another. Once the smoke dissipated, most of the enemy warships were either sinking or engulfed in flames. The one remaining warship, which was already starting to gush out thick, black smoke, immediately started to turn around and flee the area.
"All enemy ships in front of us have either been destroyed, rendered inoperable, or have fled!" reported one officer working at the bridge.
"What about those North of us? What the status on them?" Zero asked.
"Three quarter of enemy ships pursuing us from the north have been either destroyed or rendered inoperable!" another officer reported.
"And the planes?"
"The enemy's first squadron has so far been reduced to only five planes. As for the second one, Kae and her group has just engaged them in combat so we're still awaiting a status report from them!" a third officer reported.
"Seems like we're making good progress." said Kim Gu. "We've managed to mostly repel the Chinese ships while not suffering too much damage or losses.
"Agreed." Zero replied. "The sooner we get out of this battle, the quicker we can get to Shanghai and reveal the true intentions of both the Warlords and the Japanese."
It was then the telephone hanging on the wall started to ring. Zero then walked towards it and picked it up.
"This is Zero!"
"Zero, it's Dietrich! Just talked with Ronan and he says the long-range communications system is currently operational."
"It is!" Zero excitingly replied. "Then immediately connect me to our Southern Chinese Communications HQ in Canton!"
"Yes sir! Just give me a minute to establish the connection!"
The phone briefly went silent as Dietrich carefully turned several knobs and flipped a few switches attached to the radio.
"Southern Chinese Communications HQ." an intelligence officer answered on the other end.
"This is Zero, Chairman of the Black Army. Give me a status report on Chiang Kai-shek's National Revolutionary Army."
The intelligence officer on the other end flipped through several reports he recently received and analyzed the regional map before returning to Zero.
"According to our intelligence, Chiang and the NRA are currently in position along the Guangdong Provincial border."
"Hold on! Are you telling me that Chiang and his forces have not many any form of advancements whatsoever for the past few hours?" a confused and frustrated Zero asked.
"That's what it looks like sir. The reports from our scouts have only shown him gathering his forces to specific locations along the provincial border."
"Connect me with Chiang directly immediately!" Zero angrily commanded.
The intelligence officer without question quickly reconnected Zero to Chiang's Command HQ.
Guangdong-Hunan Province Border, China
Situated behind the many hills lining the border were hundreds of NRA soldiers brandishing rifles, grenades, and machine guns awaiting the call to advance. Additionally a whole line of large artillery guns could be seen positioned a short distance behind the entrenched soldiers.
Chiang, accompanied by Li and two other NRA Generals, stood on a hill behind the line of artillery and looked into the distance with his binoculars. In the distance he saw a road that lead to a Zhili-occupied town that was defended by a network of trenches, machine gun nests, and artillery guns.
"Wu Peifu definitely made sure this town was protected. Looks like we're going to have a challenge on our hands." Li commented.
"That's where you're wrong Colonel." Chiang countered. "The enemy has showed no signs of detecting any of our movements for the past few days. Our surprise attack will undoubtedly overwhelm them and prevent them from implementing any effective counter strategies."
It was then an NRA officer carrying a field telephone ran across the hill and approached Chiang.
"Sir...just...received a direct call...from Zero! He...seems...very upset about something!" the officer said as he panted and tried to catch his breath.
"Zero you say?" Chiang replied as he took the field telephone off the officer's hands and raised the headset to his ear.
"This is Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek."
"What is exactly is going on down there Chiang?!" Zero angrily asked.
"I'm sorry but I little lost on what you're talking about."
"Don't play dumb with me! You know full well the plan we arranged was for you to advance your forces so as to distract attention from us while we proceed to take custody of the Premier and possession of the treaty here in the North! However, because you haven't launched your offensive, the Warlords' forces have already organized their forces and launched a counterattack on us!"
"It sounds like everything is going to plan then."
"Are you telling me that your lack of action so far was deliberate?" a confused and frustrated Zero asked.
"I'm surprise it's taken you this long to figure that out." Chiang replied. "I've taken your plan and flipped it around. So when you kidnapped the Premier and fled before we initiated our invasion, the Warlords diverted all their attention and resources on you, leaving them vulnerable to my forces here in the South."
"For a principled man who supposedly values honor, I'm utterly shocked you would deceive me like this."
"That's where you're wrong Zero." Chiang replied. "In fact I'm preserving my principles and honor. You see before Dr. Sun Yat-sen died, I vowed to him that I would unify China and not have be indebted to any foreigners. So having me and my forces effectively becoming sacrificial pawns for your outlandish plans and gambles was unacceptable, hence why I decided to delay my attack, an action I knew you wouldn't be likely to know immediately due to being so far behind enemy lines. Instead we will unify this nation through conquest and domination."
"Chiang, your thinking is flawed and misguided. Winning a handful of battles and occupying land isn't enough to unify China. You also need to earn the trust of the Chinese people. Without their trust, true unification is all but an illusion." Zero explained. "As of now the people of this war-torn nation overall trust the Warlords and their promise of peace and prosperity. That's why us successfully exposing the Warlords and their true intentions is more important to you than it is to us."
"The Chinese people will place their trust in us once they see our many triumphant victories and realize supporting the Warlords is a lost cause. Once we have their trust and support neither Japan nor the Western powers will be able to walk all over us anymore. China will finally be able to stand on its own two feet and start reversing all the damage the imperialists have done to it for the past one hundred years."
Zero, who was getting more angry and frustrated by Chiang's arrogance, started to grind his teeth.
"So you don't care about what happens to me or the Black Army do you?"
"Once again you're wrong." Chiang answered. "You're truly an impressive and admirable leader with a noble cause similar to my own. And like you I am willing to do anything to create the world I promised to create. Also I, along with the KMT and the whole of China will never forget the contribution the Black Army played in helping us achieve unification. We all salute you."
Chiang then hung up the field telephone and returned to talking with Li and the two NRA generals.
"So, I assume Zero found out about everything?" Li asked.
"He did." Chiang answered. "Naturally he was quite angry and upset with the change I made to his plan. Can't blame him though for that would be my reaction if I was on the other end."
Chiang then turned to face the two NRA generals. "So, what's the current status of our forces?"
"All infantry units are in position along the provincial border and awaiting further orders." the first general reported.
"Artillery guns have been loaded and currently aimed at their designated targets." the second general reported.
"Have all artillery units simultaneously fire a full barrage against all enemy positions and defenses. Once the barrage ceases I want all infantry units to launch a massive charge and attack what remains of the enemy." Chiang ordered.
Both generals then saluted before going off and relaying the orders to all front line commanders.
"FIRE!" could suddenly be heard all over as various artillery commanders ordered the artillery guns they oversaw to be fired. The sound of multiple explosions immediately followed as all the artillery guns positioned along the front line fired their shells into the air. Within seconds the shells impacted the Zhili Clique's defenses and exploded, resulting in mounds of earth and the bodies of countless soldiers to either be blown apart or thrown into the air.
The artillery barrage lasted for about a minute before orders were given to cease firing. Once the smoke and dust from all the explosions started to dissipate, one could see most of the Zhili Clique's front line trenches and defenses were utterly decimated. Large craters filled with burned corpses and the destroyed remnants of machine guns and artillery guns dotted the landscape.
With the Zhili Clique's forces vulnerable and weakened, various NRA commanders blew into their bugles at the top of their lungs to signal the attack. Upon hearing the signal, all of the NRA soldiers simultaneously emerged from their trenches and charged full speed down the hills towards the remaining defenses. Still in shock from the initial artillery barrage, some of the surviving Zhili soldiers tried to repel the incoming charge by either aiming their rifles or manning the few remaining functioning machine guns.
"BANG! BANG! BANG!" along with "DUH-DUH-DUH-DUH!" echoed through the air as Zhili gunfire mowed down some of the NRA soldiers. However, due to the size of the attacking force, this made a negligible impact and the charge maintained its momentum. Realizing the futility of their actions, all the Zhili soldiers immediately abandoned their posts and retreated.
It was then more gunshots could be heard as some of the NRA soldiers shot at the retreating Zhili soldiers, causing the battlefield to be littered with more corpses. The other NRA soldiers meanwhile overran the remaining enemy defenses and continued charging towards the Zhili-occupied town in the distance.
Bohai Sea
Zero, upon finishing talking with Chiang, silently hung up the telephone on the wall. Kim Gu, along with Gang, Jo, and several other nearby officers focused their attention on him.
"So what did Chiang have to say? Is he in trouble?" Kim Gu asked.
"Just found out that Chiang decided to flip my entire plan on its head by delaying his invasion and making us be a diversion. Apparently he believes he can sway the Chinese people to his side without exposing the corruption and treachery of the Warlords."
Within in an instant of hearing the shocking news, anger, disbelief, and frustration filled the minds of everyone on the bridge.
"Are you serious?!" Kim Gu asked. "Why does he think that?"
"Who cares why! The man effectively threw away the trust we gave him like a used rag!" Jo replied.
"Jo is right." Gang added. "Chiang's actions have significantly reduced the chances this operation will succeed. As far as I see it, the KMT and the NRA are enemies of the Black Army."
"To hell with Chiang!" yelled one of the officers.
"Dirty traitor!" yelled a second officer. "Should've realized he was no different than the backstabbing Warlords who agreed to Japan's treaty."
"We cannot allow Chiang to disrespect us like this without consequence." a third officer yelled. "I suggest we strike back by leaking our intel on the NRA to the Warlords in Peking. Maybe then he will realize what betraying your allies feels like."
Realizing emotions were running high, Zero ordered all the officers to cease talking and listen to him.
"Gentlemen, while I fully understand the anger and frustration you feel, we must not let it distract us from the enemy at hand or our current mission. We will return to Shanghai with the Premier and the treaty with or without Chiang's assistance. As for addressing his actions, that is a decision that only I shall be concerned with." Zero announced. "Is that clear?"
All the officers on the bridge instantly saluted Zero before returning to their normal duties. Zero meanwhile walked over to the side and observed the battle occurring outside.
"I'm surprised to see you so calm regarding Chiang's trickery." Kim Gu said as he approached Zero and stood at his side. "Figured you would've been more shocked and upset."
"While Chiang's actions do frustrate me greatly, I'm not really surprised he would do something like this." Zero explained.
"What makes you say that?"
"Like me, Chiang is leading what he believes is a noble cause for his people. As a result he is willing to do anything in the name of creating a united China free from the shackles of foreign influence. Since I was using him and the KMT to help implement my plan, I therefore figured it was quite possible he would do the same with us."
"So what do you think we should do in response?"
"While I understand that many people are calling for retaliation, I prefer to not take any hostile actions against Chiang and the KMT."
"But Zero, Chiang has essentially abandoned us. Surely such an action cannot go unpunished."
"While Chiang is using us as sacrificial pawns in his misguided plan, he still doesn't view us an enemy." Zero explained. "As a result he and the KMT are still the best shot we have to securing an alliance in China. If we retaliate, we will have to fight him along with the Japanese and the Warlords who are collaborating with them. And if that were to occur, the Japanese and the Warlords would surely exploit that gap and use it as part of their traditional divide and conquer strategy."
"You make a good point there." Kim Gu replied. "Us fighting with the KMT would definitely be a blessing for Japan and the Warlords."
Author's Notes: We see the Warlords finally locate Zero and launch an aerial and naval attack on the Kkachi, the Black Army's new aircraft carrier, in hope of retrieving the Premier. Despite Chiang Kai-shek pulling a fast one on by launching his Northern Expedition later in order to make Zero and the Black Army the pawns in his plans, the Kkachi has so far thwarted all the attacks with minimal damage and losses.
Meanwhile, we also see growth of Daisuke's interest with Kae when reflects on his interactions with her at the ball and the treaty signing ceremony.