The administration building break room was usually a tranquil place. It sat in a corner of the building and had a large window to observe one of the bridges connecting the islands and also one of the drydocks. Z23 sat on a table reading a newspaper from her homeland and drinking hot chocolate. The paper was a month old, but that was very good for written news from her position. She had a friend back home who sent a copy over in cargo ships. With the internet, she could call upon reports of happenings all around the world in an instant, but she trusted something published physically far more.

Akatsuki took a seat across the table and sipped on her hot cola. She stared out the window and watched the seagulls squawking on top of the bridge.

Z23 often wondered why Akatsuki never let herself be seen without her mask. She wasn't the only person who wore one, but it was only half a mask anyway. It didn't look mysterious, nor did it even cover her face. Z23 guessed it was purely cosmetic, similar to her own hat. However, she did comment, "I don't know why you enjoy that soda boiled. It's flatter than glass."

Akatsuki replied, "It's not just soda. I put in ginger slices."

Z23 cringed. "That sounds disgusting."

"It tastes like oxy-cola mixed with ginger ale, and then made into a cold weather drink. I don't care about the missing bubbles."

"Half of the purpose of soda is the bubbles."

"Perhaps, but what are you supposed to drink when it's cold outside? It contains caffeine, sugar, and heat. A perfect drink for endurance missions in cold weather. Everyone in Sakura knows this. Besides, very few in Iron Blood actually drink soda. It's that disgusting bubbly flavored water."

Z23 replied, "Flavored water is an excellent and healthier substitute to that concoction of corn syrup and acid." She tipped her mug back and ate a marshmallow.

Akatsuki stared across the table at the hypocrite drinking a 'concoction' of sugar and cocoa powder. She sighed and asked, "What time is it?"

"Do you not have a clock anywhere onboard?"

"I did, but it ran out of batteries."

Z23 sighed. "It's 0759. Next time, install a clock and plug it into your electrical grid."

"What? Where were the announcements?"

"The station received many complaints(and arson threats), so they pushed back announcements an hour."

"Wait, then we only have a min-"

The conversation was annihilated by Hornet's voice exploding from the intercom speaker. Z23's face reflexively scrunched up. Akatsuki closed her eyes and attempted to enter a zen state.

"Goooooood morning Azur Lane! It is 0800 hours and we're not an hour late! The weather outside is wet and windy, a classic fall morning. The wind is fifteen knots to the northeast and it's a light rain, but just enough to get you wet. Not that any of us care about being rained on."

"We've got a few announcements. First off: A group of engineers from Iron Blood arrived last night to work on project Odin. Show 'em Azur Lane hospitality and try not to sexually assault 'em."

"Next up: Graf Zeppelin has respectfully requested everybody to stop calling her 'Big Momma'. It's only natural for some of her maternal instincts to come out around Zeppy. Besides, it's a joke that's long since stopped bein' funny. However, she says that the nickname 'Led' is still fine."

Z23 snorted at this.

"Oh yeah, also: Laffey please report to the substance abuse seminar in the Lecture Hall at 1300. All those already going must still attend. Yeah, Portland. You, too. Don't start saying you don't got a problem."

"Aaaaand finally: Saint Louis just organized the island's first church service! If you're interested, hit her up. Alright, that's it for announcements. Now time for the music! Helena, hit it!"

The intercom cut off, but both of them could still hear music coming from a far-off radio.

Akatsuki asked, "Can I read your paper?"

"Sure. I've finished reading it. Wait, do you read Blood?"

"A little."

Z23 looked out the window at the drydock containing the hull and superstructure of Odin. The manjuus were astonishingly fast with their work, despite seeming dumb as bricks. She could see the figures of Tirpitz, Bismarck, and Vestal speaking with the new engineers. She wondered what they were all up to.

[=======================]

Rain sprinkled down on the dark hull of the ship. The wood darkened and the black metal sides took on a reflective sheen. It was clear enough to see the reflection of several individuals, their bodies occasionally distorted by raindrops. Tirpitz, Bismarck, and Vestal stood on the deck with a group of engineers. Vestal was speaking to them.

"I understand 'trade secrets' and all, but a few shipments of this alloy doesn't seem that unreasonable. It would stop a lot of avoidable suffering and repairs if we received any. I don't even want to replace everyone's hull. Just a few plates and heat sinks here and there."

The engineer sighed. "It's not that we don't want to give you it. The metal is just extremely expensive to make and the process is far from perfected. We have to make do with what we have. It's been decided to use these advanced metals on new, more modern ships, rather than retrofitting older ones."

"But you're ignoring your main fleet! We are the workhorses who need the most tending to."

"Look, it wasn't my decision to make. It had to go somewhere, and here is where it was put. Are you going to sign off that we are ready to receive the new propulsion system?"

"Damn it, I'm a doctor, not a nucl-"

She was interrupted. "You don't need to understand it. We just need your signature to say we are ready for it. Don't worry about maintenance. We'll build the proper facilities on one of the islands alongside construction, so you can repair here as well."

Vestal sighed like a defeated doctor who failed to convince their patient from eating cheeseburgers every day. "Yes, I guess we are ready." She produced a pen and made an illegible scribble on the clipboard.

"Thank you. I'll get back to work now."

Bismarck looked over to Vestal and said, "I am sorry."

"It's fine. I can't have everything. If you'll excuse me, I have to tend to Columbia's repairs." She walked off in the rain, muttering something about stupid cruisers headbutting things when they had perfectly good guns they could use instead.

Tirpitz asked her sister, "What do you know of ship construction? I'm honored the commander's given us the responsibility of oversight, but I can't say I am qualified."

Bismarck replied, "I know as much as the average human knows of anatomy. However, I can manage a job. We have tasks to complete and workers to complete them. That I understand."

One of the engineers complained, "Are there no men on this island who understand ship construction?"

"There is but one man on this island(with the exception of Downes' crew). He is all we have, but he is away right now. We are all *you* have."

One of the engineers commented under his breath, "Lucky bastard…"

Tirpitz rolled her eyes and noted the characteristic sharp exhale from her sister, signifying offense. She fiddled with her earrings as Bismarck's voice took on a more commanding tone. "Now, all of you know what your jobs are. Now disperse and go do them, instead of whining to me in the rain."

They all started walking away, but she pointed to one. "You with the mouth. Come here and explain to my sister and me your objectives. If you truly know what you are doing, you will be able to describe it in a way I can understand."

"But it's raining."

"You are a naval engineer. You like water."

Just then, Tirpitz's satellite phone rang. She gestured to the both of them that she had to take this, walked away, and put a hand to her ear.

"Hallo? KMS Tirpitz."

"Hi there."

"Oh, hello commander. It's good to hear your voice."

"Good to hear yours as well. I figured I'd check in and make sure the two of you were doing fine with the oversight."

"We haven't been around long enough to properly determine that, but operations seem smooth. Why call me?"

"The engineers were supposed to have arrived last night. I guessed your sister would probably be busy intimidating them."

Tirpitiz turned around to see a man dangerously close to blind panic, as if trying to explain wiring to a lion with nothing but a sheet of laminated paper as a weapon. She replied, "No, we're getting along very well. They are hard workers."

"Good. Glad to hear it. How are… how are you doing?"

"I'm fine. Everyone misses you, of course. We also feel that siren retaliation may likely be coming very soon. Your presence is a morale booster, whether you are aware of it or not."

"I am, but probably more than I think. I tend to sell myself short. What makes you think so?"

"I value my sense of perception and I have more patience than my sister. I observe, then strike if I must. I know you matter to all of us. To many of us, it goes beyond that. The same is true for me."

"Yeah, I remember you telling me on the port outskirts. I'm really happy you warmed up to me and everyone else. We count on you a lot, even if you're really humble about it."

"It wasn't just me. Although my sister and I have been distant until recently, I do know her fairly well. She's warmed up as well. It's surprised me. You know, she knows about you and Roon, and how far you've gone with that."

"Oh, I told her a little. Did you tell the rest?"

"I understand confidentiality, but I felt she deserved to know, and she is also my sister. I have the best interests for her. She doesn't handle shocks well."

"Is she fine with it?"

"Yes. All of us are, actually."

"Wait, all of us? Who knows?"

"Everyone I've spoken to about it."

"Can't keep a damn secret on this cluster of islands."

"I repeat: We are fine with it. You've shown there is room in your heart for all of us. You're the only one who has bothered to show us their heart anyway."

"That really is a tragedy, but I'm honored. I'm glad to be the one who fights against it, even if I'm the only one. Look… take care of her while I'm gone, okay? Bismarck has a very tough outside, but she's not invincible."

"Believe me, I know. I will do this. Fair winds and following seas."

"You too. *sigh* I really hope this doesn't turn into anything weird."

[====================]

The cafeteria was usually bustling with activity in the mornings. It was today, and the energy came with an assortment of sounds, smells, and obstacles. Hot and cold breakfasts churned out of the kitchen, making the building smell of a mixture of grease, coffee, and clogged arteries. The sound of the front doors swinging open was barely audible above the din.

Everyone kept talking, but all stole glances toward Vestal. She was basically the port doctor, and all respected her because she was the one who fixed them after their antics. Akashi was capable, but was more likely to cut the budget mid-surgery. When Vestal was angry, she became unusually courteous. She walked up to the counter and looked at Beagle on the other side.

Beagle was cheery as always. "G'day!"

Vestal said, "Vegetable omelette and orange juice please."

"Absolutely!"

Vestal took her tray to a table where half of it was unoccupied. She sat down there, sharing it with groups of Sakura and Union arguing. Vestal began her meal in silence.

Kinu said, "-but that's the issue with the Union. There are so many individuals running around with their own agendas, it is impossible to unify and make great accomplishments. It's why, when not fighting anyone else, you spend your time fighting each other."

Columbia countered, "That's the beauty of it. It's not infighting! Our personal freedoms allow all ideas to come out and compete, like a big wrestling match. That way all the good ones win."

"Oh, do they now? What if your country faces a threat, but can't agree if it actually is a threat, then what? War does not wait for you to tally votes."

"That's why we elect the best leaders beforehand. They represent us because they are one of the people and we put 'em there. Since they're one of us, they'll also do what we would've done."

"Concept and reality two very separate things. I cannot believe you can compare your 'noble' leaders to your common rabble and keep your composure. If your civilian population keeps producing these officials as the rest of the world sees them, then your society has more problems than anyone realizes. The only thing keeping your country afloat is your consumer market, raw resources, and dumb luck. You have no grace, just headbutting things and pretending it was a good tactic."

Columbia stood up, put her sunglasses on her bandaged face, and said. "I'm not gonna sit here and listen to you badmouth the greatest democracy the world has ever-"

Vestal took her leave and made her way down to her office with the tray. This wasn't the first time she retreated from the cafeteria. She installed a microwave in her office a long time ago in case her food cooled. As she walked down the hallway, she noticed one of the conference rooms was locked and in session. The leaders were in there, doing leader things. Brainstorming from them always produced missions, and missions always produced damage she had to repair. It was a never-ending cycle. Whatever it was, she left it to them. Surely, they knew far more about tactics than she could ever hope to.

[=================]

Souryuu looked down at her notes and up again. She said, "I think this has been a very productive meeting. It was a necessary idea for there to be a speaker in the commander's absence, and I'm glad we all agree that Enterprise will serve the unbiased role best. If she does not wish to, perhaps the commander's secretary would serve the role best. After Gneisenau's term is up, of course."

Saint Louis added, "It is amazing what can be accomplished when many hearts are united with a single goal. Truly, a blessing. I hope our efforts came in time before he transformed from commanding officer to minstrel boy."

Chapayev said, "I agree. I'm glad we found that threat so early. We can't have anyone taking the commander or any of our comrades."

North Carolina pondered, "Y'all feel like we're taking this too far? Like, it's some kind of thing that'll turn into an obsession really quick that will end up accomplishing the opposite of what we want?"

They all thought for a second. It was possible they were about to alienate the rest of the world over one person. Still, they were sick and tired of fighting wars the way other people wanted to fight them.

Zara was usually silent. However, she broke this and said, "Nah. He's nobody else's."

North Carolina raised her glass of sweet tea. "Yeah. I was thinking the same thing. I think we've been too shy. Time to fix that."

One by one they agreed. He would be theirs and they would be his. They used to have allegiances to their former countries and some the sirens after that. Now, they both needed a little reminder as to the real and important goals. All they had to do was make sure nothing got in the way.

[=========================]

Roon reclined in a beach chair and enjoyed the atmosphere. She was taking advantage of her new privileges for being on good behavior. For three hours each day, she could walk anywhere around the port, unless she was banned, which were most places. Unfortunately, she wasn't trusted enough to do this without being under guard. She tipped her sunglasses down and had a look at York, who was standing in the sand. She was such a do-gooder. Roon asked mockingly, "Do you think this is a good angle for my tan?"

York remained stiff and stared out into the sea. She said, "I'm not supposed to fraternize."

"Oh, come on. It's just an opinion. I know you drew the shortest straw for this duty. Let me make it a little bit better."

York paused. Eventually, she said, "I do not think any power, natural or supernatural, could ever make you tan."

Roon begrudgingly agreed. She returned to her reclining position. Suddenly, she felt something. She sat up and tried to listen past the ocean waves. Another invisible wave was passing through her. It was unexpected, so she didn't get the details, but the main message was clear.

Tension went across York's face. She asked, "Something wrong?"

Roon sat back and put on a smug expression. "Didn't you feel it?"

"Feel what?"

"Did you sense nothing? I thought you were supposed to be of 'mystical persuasion'. It's like a wind."

York looked around and said, "I felt no disturbances. What are you talking about? What kind of wind is it?"

Roon's face changed to one of anarchistic glee. "The winds of change."

[===========================]

The ocean winds were blowing as well where I was. I actually didn't mind the chilly air and experience at sea made me almost not notice the salt spray. There aren't many places on the outside of a warship to sit, but sitting while on duty as a sailor was a guaranteed way to get yelled at, so it made sense. I returned inside to the bridge to see Takao sitting in the captain's chair. Atago also leaned against the bulkhead, flexing her ability to steer and be in another place at the same time. I'd recently apologized to her for snapping. Takao flatly said, "Kaga is slowing us down."

I replied, "She knows. I can hear her grinding her teeth all the way from here. She's a very angry soul, in case you didn't know."

"She has much to be angry about. You can see it as she fights with rev… no, reb. Ehh, kotoba wa na-"

"Retribution?"

"Yes. It may be a sensitive subject for her, but it must be said. We must all be honest with each other, and confront our flaws. If we do not tell Kaga she is slow, then she will never know, and can't improve. That would be a failing on our part."

A large wave travelled under Takao and the ship rolled enough that I had to adjust my footing. I commented, "You're not perfect either."

"Never said I was. I'm in the need for a new coat of paint as well, or I will start rusting."

"Paint yourself pink. It's the perfect camouflage, because nobody will ever suspect a pink warship."

"That'd be horrible and embarrassing. Where'd you get an idea like that?"

"I saw a movie."

Atago stood up and walked toward me. She said, "I think we should focus on our good traits." She held my chin with two fingers and continued, "Like your cute little chin with it's stubble."

I sighed, "Yeah, I keep forgetting to shave. Stay away from people too long and anybody'll start to slip."

"Nothing wrong with a little hair, yet most people always throw a fit about it for some reason. Besides, I think it's a very rugged look that suits you. As for the hair on the top of your head, I feel Fusou didn't do it justice last time she cut it. I think you should grow it out. Hey, sister."

She grabbed my head by the bottom and moved it into view for Takao. "What do you think he would look like in a ponytail?"

"I don't know if he would be able to maintain it. That wouldn't be a regulation hairstyle, so he would have to cut it when he wasn't alone."

Atago tutted. "A shame. Regulations are always ruining things. I think it would be very handsome and I'd love to run my fingers through it."

I asked, "Is that so? That's the sort of thing people charge you for. Would you do it for free or what would I owe you?"

Atago came close and whispered in my ear, "Not money."

Holy shit, my mind ceased being in the gutter, shot past the clouds, and achieved low orbit.

Takao's voice was patronizing, but half of it sounded embarrassed. "Careful, you're going to break him."

Atago pouted. "Awwww. He likes it."

Damn right I do. I said, "Maybe a little. How about a hug because I'm sorry about before?"

Atago's face brightened enough to blind me. "All you had to do was ask!" I was immediately smothered in armored cruiser. Takao's face was one of disappointment, and said, "You know he's manipulating you."

I had a retort, but it never left my mouth. No sound could escape Atago's embrace, except for choking noises. I knew this because her passion for hugs switched to a passion for grappling whenever sirens were around. She replied, "It's not manipulation if we both want it. Why don't you join in and make this a group hug?"

"Fine. For the comradery."

[=================]

Back at the base, a Royal and Union ship were deep in a discussion over drinks.

Massachusetts sipped on her glass of scrumpy. Hornet claimed it was made with fresh apples she bought during her trip to the states, but Massachusetts swore she tasted oranges in there as well. She spoke in a Boston accent, which ranged in thickness from average to incomprehensible(especially when irked). She was a challenge to those with less than rock-solid English. "I dunno, George. I jus' think it'd be wicked weird to have a vampire for a sister. At least all a yiz don't haveta deal with your family havin' a tonic addiction."

"It's not terrible. Besides constantly smelling of iron and the threat of sexual assault, she is a very thoughtful person. Except for full moons, and God help us on blood moons. Regardless, you can choose your friends, but you can't choose your family. You have a sister who screams 'Roll Tide!' every time at roll call before sorties. We all have our quirks."

"An' Saint Louis tryin' ta 'smite' her last Tuesday. Gump damn near did it if Dido wasn't there to stop 'er. Scared all the little kids to death."

"True. The little ones really need to get off this island."

"Whaddya mean? They just took a field trip a few weeks ago."

"I mean more than crossing a twenty-kilometer gap to the mainland. I believe taking the little ships out for an exercise would be a good idea."

"But Helena said siren subs were snoopin' around. Recon planes also got spotted. Classic vanguard before an attack. They do it every time."

"And they also know this base exists. Sirens utilize psychological warfare as much as conventional. We have damaged their pride. As such, we should surmise, no, expect them to attempt to return the favor. Make no mistake, my guns are loaded right now, and I should hope everyone else is doing the same. However, I'm sure you lot in the Union know what happens when you put all of your eggs in one basket."

Massachusetts' face briefly shifted to rage upon the indirect mention of Pearl. This was true for all Union ships without complete mastery in self-control. It was only recently that they started even speaking to Sakura ships. Her grip on the glass tightened, threatening to break it. However, she remembered who, where, and when she was. The grip relaxed.

King George said, "I apologize. The human attention span may have moved on a long time ago, but that may likely be because there are much more of them than there are us. How about a little training sortie between here and the coast? They would be inside battery and aircraft range from here or the mainland. The water is shallow and I hear the weather will be good. I have the authority to authorize it. What do you think?"

Massachusetts nodded approval.

George asked, "Who do you think would be best?"

"Wichita's free."

"I'll give her a call."