Ryan looked at the small clock, standing on the nightstand. It was 06:00 a.m., time for him to wake up and start the day.
He sat up and looked around in his apartment. He almost felt spoiled, the builders literally built dorms for the ordinary seamen and apartment buildings for the officers; and so Ryan also got a small ground-floor flat with a bedroom, a shower, and a very small kitchen and living room.
„They almost treat us too well." he silently laughed.
The young man got out of bed with a yawn and threw on his workout clothes then headed out the door to meet his friend.
He met James immediately after exiting his apartment. „Morning James! Did you sleep well?"
„You know me well, even a raging storm can't wake me up once i fell asleep." replied James with his usual cheerful demeanor. „What about you?"
„I had a good night too, these guys sure do know how to be comfortable even at a naval base." said Ryan.
„Exactly, my jaw dropped when i saw these houses."
The duo then met with another someone at the corner. „How are you this morning?" greeted her Ryan with a warm smile.
„Being up in the sky again would be nice. But being with you again is probably even better." said the young, brown haired woman smiling as well and folded her arms around Ryan who hugged back his cousin sister, Lucia Grazzini. She was the daughter of Ryan's uncle and a fighter pilot of the US Navy. She came to Japan aboard the Abraham Lincoln.
„The feeling is mutual cousin."
„So. What's the goal this morning?" asked Lucia.
„I thought that about twelve kilometers will do for a start." said Ryan.
„Sounds good to me."
„James?"
„Let's break a sweat!"
The three ran for about an hour through the still quiet base as the Sun started to peek over the horizon and eventually made it back to the apartment block.
„Well, that's definitely a good wake up." said James panting when they stopped.
„Nothing like an early run to start the day." replied Ryan, wiping sweat from his brow.
„But it's only perfect together with a good breakfast!"
„Someone really likes his stomach, huh?" joked with him Lucia.
„Oh come on!" said James. „It is good to eat. If anyone, you two should know it well because of that Italian blood."
„Alright, i take your point." said Ryan. „Anyway, see you two later!" he said as he entered his apartment.
He then showered and made himself a quick breakfast, consisting of fried eggs, toast and coffee.
Once he finished he dressed up in his uniform and left his apart, carefully locking the door behind him.
Most of his day was spent without anything special happening, he performed his duty as a first officer aboard the Milius, and when his turn of duty was over in the afternoon, he went back ashore to enjoy his free time.
He wandered around, checking places he didn't see so far and after a while his feet took him to the square between the Japanese and American part of the naval base.
It was also quite a nice place, with trees and benches. And on one of the benches, he saw a familiar figure sitting with her back toward him.
Kirishima was sitting with crossed legs and a crossword puzzle and a pen in her hands.
After the past night she was trying to relax and divert her thoughts, so she tried to keep her mind occupied in any way possible, and right then this was the best way she could find. Yet, she was still half-hearted.
"Ancient Rome's port city, five letters." she said quietly, trying to figure out the answer.
"Ostia." someone said behind her.
Kirishima turned back and her face brightened up. "Good afternoon Ryan-san!"
"Good afternoon Kirishima-san." replied Ryan, giving an appropriate bow.
Kirishima giggled a bit at his formality and said in English: "You can call me just Kirishima if you prefer." she said with a slight blush.
"Alright... Kirishima." replied Ryan, blushing a bit as well.
"Take a seat if you'd like to." gestured Kirishima at the empty half of the bench next to her.
"Thank you very much." nodded Ryan and sat down next to the young woman.
"Say, do you mind that I call you by your first name?"
"Absolutely not. And you really don't have to put an honorific after it. Just "Ryan" is fine." smiled Ryan.
"Alright... Ryan." she said before they both shared an embarrassed smile. "Say, how did you know the answer to the question in the puzzle?"
"I've always been interested in ancient history, especially when it comes to the Mediterranean. And anyway, as a half-Italian I find it important to know such things."
"So, I was right to think that your family name, the "Grazzini" is not a coincidence?" asked Kirishima.
"My great-great-grandfather came to America from Genova with his family." nodded Ryan. "From my mother's side I'm Irish."
"Hm. Even if you're American after all, I've never seen an Italian or Irish in my life." said Kirishima.
"Then. Here's your big chance." spread Ryan his arms with a smile.
"May I ask where you live?" asked Kirishima.
"Santa Cruz, California."
"Is it a nice place?"
"I'm glad I can call it my home."
"It's south from San Francisco, right?"
"Exactly."
"Strange..."
"What's strange?" asked Ryan.
"I've heard so much about America, but I've never got to see it, only on pictures. I... only ended up in war with it." rubbed Kirishima the back of her neck confused.
An awkward silence followed.
The fact that she was now here, chatting friendly with him didn't change what happened in the past. If they were in the days of the old war, she wouldn't be talking with him peacefully on a bench, but she would try to kill him with the blast of her cannons. If someone had told her back then that once she will sit together with an American, talking like good friends, she would have certainly just laughed at that person. But now here she was, sitting together with a real American, one of Washington's compatriots, talking like good friends. It was just crazy to think about this.
Ryan on the other hand had no reason to be confused; he had nothing against the Japanese and he never fought them; neither did his ancestors in WW2, they all fought on the European front. Yet he understood fully why her mood changed suddenly and so he tried to find another topic.
"What about you Kirishima? Where are you from?"
"Thanks Ryan." thought Kirishima, grateful that she doesn't have to talk about her past experiences and the former hostilities between their countries. "Well, depends on which birthplace of mine you think of. My keel was laid down in Nagasaki, I was launched there long ago. As for this new life, I was born in Shizuoka."
"I think I know where it is. It's not far from Mount Fuji, isn't it?"
"Yes, it's not too far from the mountain on the seashore." nodded Kirishima. "You know some Japanese geography as well?"
"A bit, yes."
"Geography, ancient history; you like to learn I see." commented Kirishima, thinking that Ryan is a quite intelligent person. In fact, she already found this young man very sympathetic.
"I can't deny that."
"Why did you choose naval service?"
"That wasn't my original plan actually. I studied marine biology at the university in San Francisco for two years before I joined the navy."
"Oh, really? That sound interesting! So that's what interests you the most?" asked Kirishima fascinated.
"Yes. I love the sea from the very moment I was born. I love its mysteries, the creatures that live there, everything." said Ryan.
"That's something I can totally understand. And to be honest I envy you."
"Why is that?"
"Because I've always dreamed about studying. You are lucky Ryan. If I ever had the chance to attend a university, I'd like to learn medicine. But in the current circumstances I doubt that it could happen soon."
"If this is your dream Kirishima, do not give it up by any means. Once this whole thing is over, you'll deserve to do what you'd like. Plus, I have a feeling that you have the brain for it."
"Haha, thanks!" chuckled Kirishima, noting silently how kind he was. "And why are you here now?"
"When the tide of the war began to turn, the navy announced that they seek volunteers to fill their ranks and find crews for their ships. Well, I volunteered. This may sound like just bravado, but I wanted to do something." explained Ryan. "The sea is a part of my soul, I wanted to help to liberate it."
"I don't think you'd just like to play a hero; I think you're a brave person Ryan." said Kirishima.
"I just hope I'll be brave enough in battle too; I haven't seen combat yet. I hope I'll be a good first-officer of the crew."
"Trust me, you are a good and nice officer, I'm sure they like you." assured him Kirishima.
"How do you know?" asked Ryan.
"I can just feel it." smiled Kirishima encouragingly.
"Thank you very much." smiled back Ryan and Kirishima immediately felt her cheeks heating up.
For a few seconds silence lapsed between them as they just stared at each other.
"Can I ask something?" asked Ryan.
"Sure."
"Does Hiei hate me and my comrades?"
"Oh... Well, I must admit, maybe she's being too rigid toward you. But believe me, she's very kind. Maybe, I'll talk to her later." Kirishima was in a difficult situation; she understood how Hiei and some of her other fleet mates felt, but she also wanted to move forward and leave the past behind as much as possible.
"You four really love each other, don't you?" asked Ryan.
"I couldn't wish for better sisters." stated Kirishima. "And I couldn't describe how strong our bond is; I love them all from the bottom of my heart. I'd give my life for any of them."
"You are lucky Kirishima. I know that feeling very well."
"Do you have siblings?" asked Kirishima.
As soon as the words left her mouth, Ryan's expression suddenly changed, and Kirishima saw nothing but sadness in his eyes.
"Well... Yes, I... have a younger sister..."
"May I ask her name?" asked Kirishima, but she felt that something was wrong.
"Elena."
"Where is she now? At home?"
"I'd... rather not talk about it." said Ryan quietly.
Kirishima was now certain that something was up, but she didn't want to ask any more questions, after all she wasn't that close to him yet.
"Oi Kirishima!" Haruna's voice interrupted them. The third sister of the Kongo-class was approaching them, waving her hand. "Oh. Good afternoon to you Ryan-san."
"You too Haruna-san." greeted her Ryan.
"Say Kirishima, what about having lunch?" asked Haruna.
"You don't have to ask me twice." replied Kirishima and stood up from the bench. "Would you like to have lunch with us Ryan?" she turned to him.
"Oh, I don't want to disturb you."
"You're not a disturbance by any means!" assured him Haruna. "You are welcomed at our table."
"As she said." added Kirishima.
"Well. I guess, I have no choice." smiled Ryan and stood up as well. "Thanks you two."
Soon all three of them were at Mamiya's café. Just as they entered, Ryan noticed a familiar face at one of the tables. "Oh, hi James. Didn't expect to see you here."
"Hello there Ryan. I just thought I'll explore the other half of the base and came in for a coffee."
"Girl, this is my best friend, James." said Ryan.
"Nice to meet you two. I'm James Mitchel, gunnery officer of the USS Milius. And as he said, the friend of this guy." introduced himself James and shook hands with the two Japanese women. "What can I owe meeting to?"
"We just decided to have lunch." said Ryan. "Would you like to join us?"
"A good lunch is something I'm always ready for!" replied James happily.
"What would you girls recommend for someone who's not been here before?" asked Ryan as they settled down.
"Definitely Mamiya's curry." replied Kirishima and Haruna in union.
It didn't take long before Mamiya placed the four, steaming curry before them. "Bon appetite!" said the supply ship with her usual happy style and left them.
"Itadakimasu!" said Kirishima and Haruna and took their spoons. But before they took the first bite, both of them stopped, because Ryan didn't start to eat immediately, he just closed his eyes, lowered his head and remained like that for a few seconds.
"Amen." he said when he raised his head again and took his own spoon.
"A-Amen." said Kirishima.
"Sorry, I always do this before eating." explained Ryan.
"Well, it's something like our customs. Maybe we are not that different after all." replied Kirishima.
"True. But do not waste our time any longer! Let's taste this curry finally!" said Ryan.
"If its taste is just half as good as its smell, then it must be very savory!" noted James.
He was right, the only word the two Americans could find to describe Mamiya's curry was "fantastic", and so their plates became empty very soon.
"Haruna! Kirishima!" a familiar, cheerful voice filled the café. Kongo stepped in, followed by Hiei. "We've been looking for you... O-Oh. I didn't know you've got company." she said in a more confused way when she noticed the two American sailors. "I remember you from earlier. Reynold?"
"Ryan Kongo-san. Ryan Grazzini. Good to you again." said Ryan as he stood up and offered his hand for her. The fast battleship was hesitant for a second but then took his hand and shook it. "This is my friend."
"Glad to meet you, I'm James Mitchel. I..." James stopped when he saw Hiei who was standing beside Kongo. "Whom I have the honor of speaking?"
Hiei said nothing. Why does this goddamn yank want to know? Why is he so casual with her? Why can't he and his friend just leave her alone? And for the sake of the gods, why are her sisters hanging out with them? Did they forget everything that happened back then?
The second ship of the Kongo-class looked sideways at the oldest sister who gave her a small, almost invisible nod.
"Hiei-desu." she said with and unfriendly tone.
"I'm pleased to meet you Hiei." bowed his head James and once again, he offered his hand.
Judging by the look on Hiei's face, Ryan was certain that in the next second the battleship will grab her combat gear out of nowhere and blow his friend to pieces. Luckily Hiei chose to slowly – very slowly – raise her own hand and took his.
It took James great effort not to smirk and hiss in pain, for Hiei squeezed his hand so strong that he feared for his bones.
"Uh... You have... quite a handshake."
"Only for special people." murmured Hiei with blazing eyes.
"Nagato told us that the admiral planned practice for the afternoon, we came to tell you." turned Kongo to her two youngest sisters.
"We can go right now Onee-sama." said Haruna. "Kirishima?"
"I'm ready as always." said the girl with glasses and stood up as well. "We should repeat this Ryan, I really enjoyed talking to you." she said smiling at him.
"Anytime Kirishima. Arrivederci." smiled back Ryan.
"It was an honor to get to know you James-san." bowed Kirishima.
"The honor was all mine." nodded James. "Have a nice day Hiei-san." he turned to her with a kind smile to which she replied with a flat stare.
The Japanese shipgirls waved goodbye and left for the training field.
"What a woman." said James when the sisters were out of the café.
"You sure about that?" raised Ryan an eyebrow. "I think she would have preferred to kill you."
"Perhaps. But she's just amazing."
"If you say so."
When the two exited the café, they met someone familiar. "Hello Lucia." said Ryan. "What's up with you?"
"I've just had a look on their air force. Damn, their carriers sure are a force to reckon with. And man, those Zeros are beautiful!"
"We've heard one enthusiastic pilot." joked Ryan. "What are you planning to do now."
"I'm heading back to the barracks."
"I think we'll join you cousin."
X
"Hiei, you really should have been kinder, he was so nice to you." scolded Kongo her younger sister.
"This time I disagree with you Onee-sama."
"He has nothing to do with what happened before. You're just unfair with him and his comrades."
"My soul tells something else..."
"Oh, okay, okay... I just hope you change your mind one day."
"You can wait 'till doomsday for that..."
"You said to him "we should repeat this"". Whispered Haruna into Kirishima's ear. "Remember this."
"Y-Yes. I will." replied Kirishima with a small smile on her lips. In fact, she couldn't wait for the next meeting with Ryan.
She turned back, wondering if she can still see him. Well, she saw him, but she saw him together with a brow haired, female pilot, as they were chatting kindly. Could it be possible that...
Anyhow, Kirishima was quite moody for the rest of the day.
X
"So that's why you wanted the fleet to start practicing admiral." said Nagato, standing before the desk of Admiral Hirayama.
"Yes, they reported Abyssal activity in the southern sectors." replied the Japanese officer. "We still need more information, but we shall expect enemy activity in the close future. Keep the girls ready, alright Nagato?"
"Weare always ready to do their duty admiral." saluted the battleship.
Yes, their duty. The duty that haunts them since the day they were launched in the various shipyards of Japan. The duty that seemingly just doesn't want to let them go.
AN: Hello everyone, here is chapter 4! Hope you liked it!
Thanks to "naufalcahsemarang" thanks for the Follow!
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