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