So, I am back with the next chapter.
Now we get to see what the Union wants from Azur Lane. It is not something that Alexander is not going to like.
Still, he will at least be reunited with someone that has been out of the fold for him for a while, while at the same reunite with someone he would have really avoided.
Anyway, that is enough tasting for this Chapter let us get to it!
So as always, all the rights to this go to their owners as I own nothing!
When I got the word that a fleet of Union ships was demanding to see me, I suspected trouble. But little did I know just how bad that trouble would be: Alexander Miles private journal
The first of the many Union ships were becoming visible as Miles, as he continued making his way to the main harbour area.
From what he could tell from what he saw, Miles guessed that this fleet mostly consisted of mass-produced destroyers, with what he guessed were a couple of heavy cruisers acting as the fleet's main fighting power.
Making Miles wonder why the Union would send such a task force over to Port Azure, as the Union had withdrawn its military support for Azur Lane once Miles made it clear that he would not aid them in their war with the Sakura Empire. Still, he had made it clear that he would help with the security of the southern pacific and that of Port Jade, in exchange for that the Union had given lukewarm political support through the League of Nations so that he could accomplish this goal while they were distracted fighting the Empire.
But this pledge had turned out like most others he had gotten from the other nations on both sides of the conflict. As Miles quickly found out that their support counted for truly little while it mattered the most.
As Miles quickly found out, one side could not do anything without being countered by the other, which you might have thought would have been a good thing for Miles and Azur Lane. But instead, this had turned out to be a curse, as in his attempts to play one side off another Miles would find he would suddenly face a major problem such as the cargo ship bounded by Iron Blood with supplies being seized at the neutral port, or a sudden offensive that forced the side in question to divert resources that they had promised to him to deal with this sudden attack by their enemies.
So, as you could imagine the fact that this happened so regularly frustrated the Grand Admiral to no end; at which point it came as no surprise when most of those countries aligned with the Crimson Axis had simply stopped sending him any so of support whatsoever.
Not that Miles did not blame them at this point as it had become obvious even to him that they had more pressing matters to attend to. Such as the leadership of Iron Blood having to deal with the sudden change in their closest allied government while consigning with a sudden offensive from the Northern Parliament.
At this point, the only real thing they had going for that at this point was the fact that Royal, Iris Libre landing forces had been delayed from any invasion attempts. But this was mostly thanks to their Siren allies, as in all honestly the fleet of Iron Blood had become a shadow of its former self.
Miles had read the reports, and it told him that if the Allies were to land in force, then there was extraordinarily little that the Crimson Axis forces could do to stop them.
But there was one major issue about this, well several. But what it came down to it, the support that the Union was sending them.
This simply put was very much under the mark that the Union had promised, to which the United Kingdom understandably saw this as the Union breaking their word, not only to them but to the Northern Parliament as well. Even though they made several promises to create a second front for the Northern Parliament, this did not happen. Mostly because both the United Kingdom nor the Iris Libre forces did not have the equipment or the manpower to pull this off alone.
Something which was becoming a major problem, as Miles was more than aware that there was a very real risk that if the Allies if keep in this holding pattern, then their alliance would simply fall apart from lack of action and the grown mistrust between all sides. Some rumours had reached Miles from the UK and the Parliament that stated that the Union was just using them so they could swoop at the last moment and roll them all up in one go.
This honestly was not an unfounded fear, as the Union had been profiting from the current status quo in many ways.
As they had been supplying their allies with most of the tools of the trade; at least they were until the Sakura Empire attacked and subordinate occupation of Pearl Harbor, at which point the Eagle Union had entered the war on the Allies' side.
Though Miles had his misgivings as to where the Union was on anyone's side. As it had seemed to him and a couple of others that the Union leadership was looking out from their interest first, this seemed to line up with what Miles had been told. Making the Grand Admiral wonder just what the Union's true war aims were.
Because Miles was become increasingly concerned as to what they might be, as he was certain that whatever they were planned the Union had undoubtedly included him and Azur Lane in it.
As it had been an open secret that before the war the Union had been attempting to bring the Azur Lane more fully into their sphere of influence. This in their eyes was necessary, especially considering the proximity that Port Azure was to the Union heartland compared to the rest of the member nations.
Even so, Miles had mostly managed to keep the Azur Lane out of their sphere of influence, thanks in part to both the Royal Navy and his friends in the League of Nations. This was something that Miles was proud of considering just what he had to work with, as he hoped that this would prevent his successor from having to deal with it when they finally took command of him.
But such ideas were nothing more than a pipe dream now.
As Miles then looked out into the bay and saw two familiar figures approaching the docks. One of which he immediately identified as Belfast, while the other woman sailing next to her came as something of a welcome sight to him, especially with everything that had transpired in the last couple of days. For Alexander immediately realized she ever from here, as he could make out her long blue hair, white top, and rigging with its four turrets.
As he then called out to her.
"BILOXI!" Miles then called out to her.
As he tried to make sure that she could hear him.
Though he did not get any verbal reply from her, Miles did see Biloxi wave at him as she then picked up her speed, quickly making her way over to him. Belfast matched her speed as the two of them approached the pier that Miles was already making his way towards.
It came as no surprise to Miles that the two Ship-girls reached the pier first. As he then made his way toward them, he could see that Belfast and Biloxi were still catching up with one another. That was until Biloxi noticed that change in Belfast's body language, which was a dead giveaway for when Miles was around.
As Belfast always seemed to stand up a little straight when either he or Elizabeth was around, something that Biloxi assumed was from her upbringing, as she then turned to face the man she had come here to see once again.
"Commander Alexander, it's good to be back sir," Biloxi said as she kept up her professional appearance.
"Glad to have you back with us Biloxi, at ease," Miles said as Biloxi's features relaxed, and a tired-looking smile came to her tired face.
As it was obvious that Biloxi's mission to Union to drum up support for Azur Lane had involved many sleepless nights, so seeing this Miles could only hope that those sleepless nights where Biloxi had been burning the midnight oil could help him defuse what was looking like a rather, touchy diplomatic situation.
But for the moment Miles left that aside, as he could easily deal with that once he had finished greeting his friend whom he had not seen in months.
"I'm sorry that I didn't come with friends." There was a note of regret in Biloxi's voice as she said this.
As she alongside Miles had been lobbying for certain Ship-girls to be released back to Azur Lane, most notable Laffey; as Miles had been forced to release her and a couple of other Kansen as part of a deal that he had been forced to strike to ensure that Eagle Union's support for his organization long term.
If Alexander was being honest with himself, he had already come to regret the moment it had been struck. Despite Laffey's words, he knew that she felt betrayed by his action.
'I was such a fool, maybe Amagi's right to be worried about me.' This small voice of double whispered into Miles's mind.
But this voice was quickly silenced, as Miles quickly snuffed it out. As he knew that he had made a mistake, one of many he had made in his tenure as the Grand Admiral of Azur Lane. But simply dwelling on them would not help his current situation, nor would it help those who even after everything that had happened still believe in the same dream he did.
So, he would not dishonour them by letting this all be for nothing!
But at that moment Miles then realized that an awkward silence was starting to develop, so Miles quickly spoke up to fill the growing void.
"Regarding that Biloxi; I'm just glad that you're back," Miles admitted as he took her in his embrace.
"I know Commander, Belfast filled me in on everything while we were making our way in. Also, I'm sorry to dump this on you while you're still down Miles; but I didn't have a choice." Biloxi sounded a bit frustrated as she said this.
Alexander knew that her comment bagged a question, but he knew that he did not have the time to ask. As he could see that the fleet of Union ships was already entering the harbour beginning the process to dock.
Seeing this Miles immediately turned to Belfast; as he had one important job for her to do.
"Bel, if you don't mind. Would you go and ensure that Suruga and her class won't be harassed by any Union person?" Miles then asked his head maid.
As this was honestly the riskiest thing for Miles to ask Belfast to do. But it was the best action he could take given the circumstances, as he had no idea who oversaw the Union fleet.
Because Miles knew that if they attempted to interfere or God forbid, forcibly remove Belfast, then you would have an international incident.
One which would throw the whole Union, Royal alliance into complete question, as Miles knew that Queen Elizabeth would not tolerate anyone interfering with her embassies, let alone a member of the Royal Maid core who she had personally tasked with this assignment in any way.
Even so, Miles knew that this might not be enough, as with how things were going in the war it would not have surprised him if the Union commander simply ignored his suggestion and dragged every afflicted Crimson Axis Ship-girl off to an interrogation at a Union Naval Base.
As Miles was finding it hard to figure out which way Union commanders would jump these days, and for good reason.
Because most of those who he had worked with before had been replaced by those lost in combat operations. This was an obvious problem for him, as Miles had known many old commanders and captains personally and knew that he could count on them if something came up regarding the Sirens.
But Miles had no such connections with the new blood in the Union navy; as such Miles knew that he could not count on them in an emergency.
Still, this was something that Miles could fret over later, as Belfast finally seemed to reply to his request.
"Of course, Master; Lady Biloxi we shall catch up more later on once this matter is dealt with," Belfast said with her usual grace, as she then left the two of them.
After Belfast had left the pier that the two of them were currently standing on.
"I'm glad that you and Bella are doing well. Are you two dating yet?" Biloxi then casually popped the question.
As she had heard Miles use Belfast's pet name openly with her before. This was because Biloxi was in a small inner circle that Miles trusted completely to not say anything to the others.
This also meant that Biloxi was more than aware of who Miles was closest to in his life.
"You know that regulations are about Human, Kansen relationships Biloxi." Miles's response was automatic to her question.
To which Biloxi gave him something of a disappointed frown.
"I would've expected you to of at least had a drink together. Given how close the two of you are." The disappointment in Biloxi's voice was plain to hear.
As Biloxi knew that the head maid of the Royal Navy would have done anything for Miles if he asked her. But honestly, she was glad that Miles had not taken advantage of this whereas most others in his position would have already done so.
Still, Biloxi could not help but feel a little upset for Belfast in this situation. Because even thou it might not have been her place to stay, Biloxi felt that both Miles and Belfast were not honest enough with each other about the extent of their relationship. As it was obvious that the two of them made for great work partners, but at the same time Biloxi could not help but feel as if the two of them were not being completely honest with one another when it came to personal relationships.
This was saying something, as Miles despite his seemingly supernatural ability to forge a connection and find common ground Miles always seemed to lack the ability to follow through with what came after. It was not for a lack of trying, however, because if that had been the case then Azur Lane would have found itself under new leadership already.
No Biloxi felt that Alexander, despite all his strengths, suffered from a lack of willingness to take risks. For everything Miles was, he was men who won men's hearts and then make sacrifices to win battles.
Still, this was at least what Biloxi thought about this matter, as in all honestly, she could be completely off the mark in her assumption.
Only time would prove her right or wrong in this regard. Still, Biloxi could mule over this fact later, as her Commander finally replied to what she had said.
"Honestly, it's easier if we keep our relationship this way," Miles admitted to Biloxi as he then looked away from her.
As he feared, this was because he was too close to his subordinates, given what had happened the last time he had done that. Seeming to sense not to push the issue, Biloxi decided to simply sidestep the question that should have been asked but instead brought up something more relevant to what was taking place.
"So, you want to know what happening in the Union?" This transition was a bit rough on Biloxi's side, but it was the best she could do given the mood.
Thankfully, Miles did not seem to notice this as he turned his head to face her once again.
"Honestly, I hope that you have some good news Biloxi." Miles sounded as if he already expected nothing to come from this.
To which the light cruiser smiled in response, as she had just the news that might cheer him up.
"Well, in that case, you'll be happy to hear that I was able to meet with Admiral Nimitz." The pride in Biloxi's voice was unmistakable.
As Biloxi had gone through hell to see the man; as Nimitz was a busy man, and the fact that she had managed to get a meeting with him was nothing short of a miracle given his schedule.
"How did you manage that?" Miles asked, as even he had not been able to speak with Nimitz in years.
"Long nights Commander, as that was the only real-time, he had free to talk," Biloxi explained to him.
"Biloxi, what were you two talking about? What did he have to say about...?" The questions then came fast and furious From Miles who wanted to know everything.
Biloxi, however, was not willing to deal with Alex's deluge of questions, as she was working on little sleep given what she had been doing for the last couple of days. As the cruiser could feel a strong headache starting to form, Biloxi knew that if it were allowed to take hold then she would not be of any help to Miles in the confrontation that she knew was to come.
"Commander, stop you're giving me a headache," Biloxi said as her hand reached out and rubbed her temples.
As Biloxi was working on less than three hours of sleep without so much as a coffee. Biloxi was not really in the shape to deal with Miles' fast questioning.
As per usual Alex was quick to change his disposition to accommodate what she needed from him.
"I'm sorry Biloxi, but I can hardly believe that you managed to see the Admiral," Miles admitted.
As he had been trying to contact Nimitz for months with no success, to hear that Biloxi had done so was nothing short of a miracle in his eyes.
"I can understand, as Nimitz is a very busy man these days. Even since he was forced to take command and rebuild everything from scratch once Pearl Harbor was retaken." Biloxi reiterated what they already knew.
"So how is he?" Miles then inquired.
As he had only been able to meet Nimitz only a hand full of times before. Not enough so that he knew Nimitz personally, but more than enough that Alex had a feel for him.
So whatever Nimitz had said or promised to Biloxi, Miles was inclined to take him at his word. As he knew that the Admiral was not one for playing games or giving empty promises.
"Well, for starts he not sleeping as he used to given that he's running the whole show. But otherwise, he seemed to be well." Biloxi told her CO, as she waited for what she knew Miles would ask next.
"Did you manage to give him my purpose?" Miles then popped the question.
As he had been trying to gather support for his purposes for quite some time now and since Alex was not finding any in the League of Nations, he decided to simply approach those who could lobby for him.
"I did manage to hand it off to him; Nimitz said that he would read it and get back to us once he finished an inspection of a project that's of importance to the Union's war efforts," Biloxi explained to him.
For a moment Miles thought as to whether he should ask Biloxi if she knew the project's name. But Miles decided that he would ask later, as he did not want to take away from this moment.
"Thank you, Biloxi, if there's anything I can do to say thanks just let me know and I'll see if I can get it done," Miles said, making the offer to her.
Honestly, he should not have done so, given what he had just given Biloxi. As she fully intended to use what Miles had so happily given her.
"You could at least take me out for a drink Commander. After all the effort I put in on your behalf in the Union, I do believe I've earned that much." Biloxi said her tone of voice turning conspirator.
This of course made Miles immediately suspensions, as he had heard that tone of voice for her sisters before. As he knew that whatever was to follow was going to be nothing short of a major headache for all those currently stationed on the base.
But despite knowing this Miles knew that he had to ask this next question.
"How would this work out exactly?" The Commander then asked, wanting to know more details as to what Biloxi had in mind.
"It would be simply you and me Commander. Also, I would have Belfast on hand to serve us drinks and ensure that we didn't do something regrettable." Biloxi explained to her Commander.
To be honest it was not as bad as the Grand Admiral had been expecting. Still, Miles was not sure what he thought about Biloxi's purpose that was until he remembered the look on Belfast's face when he had brought out that bottle of whiskey, she had gifted to him to drink. This was also followed by the memory of what had happened the last time he had the bottle all to himself and the events that had followed.
So, thinking about it, Miles thought if he were going to drink then he would do so with someone that would make sure that he did not completely waste himself like last time.
"I'll think about it Biloxi and let you know my decision tomorrow." Miles made this compromise for Biloxi.
Miles knew that he might very well find himself feeling the urge to open a new bottle depending on what took place during his meeting with whoever was commanding this Union task force.
Which was becoming something of a habit for him, as Miles did not have any other outlet for her frustration and anger these days, and as such, he found himself turning to the bottle for comfort.
'It's been a long couple of years.' Miles then thought bitterly to himself.
For it had indeed been that for Grand Admiral, who despite staying on the sidelines was affected by what was taking place beyond. A part of him wished that he had taken the other path that had been open to him.
While at the same time, Miles knew that if he had taken that path, then it would have not only been a betrayal of himself but of what Azur Lane stood for, a fact that Miles had agonized over while he had been trying to make his decision as to what path he should pursue.
But in the end, Miles chose the path that he thought embodied the spirit on which Azur Lane was founded.
Still, that mattered truly little given that Azur Lane was dependent on outside entities for both its resources and fighting strength.
Thus, showing the reality of Miles's dream for all to see, but despite this, he had still to push forward. Miles knew that he would not have gotten this far if others had not believed in the same dream as him.
Still what Miles must be thinking about must have shown on his face somehow. As he suddenly found that Biloxi had grabbed his hand to get his attention.
"Just don't leave it for too long Commander; it's never wise to a girl waiting." Biloxi squeezes his hand while shooting him her best smile.
At which point he knew that the light cruiser had noticed his inner turmoil. But he knew that there was nothing he could do to hide it from Biloxi; at least to a certain extent.
"I'll try not to Biloxi," Miles muttered these promises as the two of them finally reached the mainland.
At this point, the two of them started walking as the two largest Union ships were most likely to dock. But as the two of them walked towards where the Union ship was docking, it seemed that neither one of them seemed to want to break the silence that had fallen between them.
But seeing how close the two ships were to settling into port, Miles knew that he could not put off this question any longer.
"Biloxi," Miles's voice sounded all the louder in silences that had fallen between them, "I'm sorry to ask, but do you know why the Unions sent a task force here?" He then inquired about the cruiser.
In response to his question Biloxi removed her hand from his and turned to look at him. The cruiser's face turned from sympathetic to unreadable; as she seemed to try and figure out where she should start explaining things.
"Honestly, Miles, I can't tell you that much. As you know as much as me at this point, but I do know who's in charge of this task force." Thou Biloxi's voice stayed neutral.
Though there was an undertone that suggested that she wished that this were not the case. Knowing that he had to, Miles took a moment before asking Biloxi for the Commander's name.
"Who's in charge of this fleet?" Miles asked the question.
At which point Miles watched as the mask that had been on Biloxi slipped off to reveal her disdain for whoever this commander was.
"Commodore Hunter Donner," Biloxi said the name as if was a curse.
That name was familiar to Miles, as he had worked with the man before. As Hunter was from an old military family and as such had a style of warfare that clashed heavily with his own.
Because if Miles were to describe Hunter's way of fighting, it would simply be put as ends justified the means. As he was not the least bit worried if he had to sacrifice a 'pawn' for victory, which might have worked well back in the days before the Siren invasion, but now considering that every Kansen that was now lost was considered an irreplaceable assists due to the rate of losses; Hunters preferred tactical doctrine did not mesh well with the needed at the time.
But despite his taste for attrition tactics the Eagle Union needed battle capability commanders, so for all his faults Hunter had still found a spot in the Union Navel hierarchy as the head commander of its marine forces
So, for him to be given a naval task force again must have meant that things were truly desperate in the Union. Knowing this Miles could only guess as to why they were, even though in his gut he knew why they sent him here.
Even so, Miles needed to hear it before he could believe it.
"I didn't get the news that he had been promoted," Miles admitted.
"Neither had I Miles, but then again there's a lot that we've hadn't been told." Biloxi implied.
But this was a conversation for another time, as the gangway had just touched down on the concrete.
Seeing this, both Miles and Biloxi quickly approached the ramp just as the familiar figure of Hunter started making his way down the fully extended gangway. He looked the same as when Miles had last seen him.
As he was a well-built man with dark hair, steely gray eyes, and an aura that surrounded the man that implied that he was the one in control.
Hunter with four guards behind him made his way to the pier; carrying himself as if he already owned this place. Only taking a moment to wait, as the rest of his personnel disembarked from the ship before allowing himself to look toward where Miles and Biloxi were.
"Commodore Donner, we weren't expecting you and your task force here," Miles said in greeting, all the while scanning the group of soldiers that Hunter and brought with him.
All the while Biloxi put on a mask, to not show her true feelings about the man show through.
"I wouldn't have expected you to, also it's Fleet Admiral Donner now," Hunter informed the two of them of his new rank.
A little too smugly if Biloxi were being honest; as she did not like Hunter, nor would she come to like the man. As she saw the man as nothing more than a butcher of both friends and foes alike; this was something that Biloxi could not respect. Biloxi believed that any victory under Hunters' command would be nothing short of pyrrhic, for he would undoubtedly bleed both his and the enemy forces white.
Leaving them open for a follow-up by the Sirens. Even so, Biloxi kept her opinions to herself, knowing that Miles was the only person who could do something.
"Congratulations on your promotion Admiral, but I doubt that you came all this way just to inform me of your promotion personally," Miles said pointedly.
As Miles knew that Hunter would not have brought a task force to simply deliver this news to him in person unless there was something he was also meant to do here as well.
"Indeed Miles, I'm charged with informing you that given recent events and the fact that we have been your main benefactor for quite some time. That Azur Lane is to be brought under full Union control effectively immediately." Hunter said, and as if to emphasize the point a couple of the soldiers behind him started to spread out throughout the port.
As they were undoubtedly going to accomplish whatever pre-assigned missions Hunter and Union high command had assigned them, all the while Biloxi and Miles had no choice but to let them pass.
Even so, Miles was going to challenge Hunter as they both knew what they were doing and the consequence of the Union's actions.
"On what authorize are you doing this? As I know that the League of Nations would not have authorized this, LET ALL STAND FOR THIS!" At which point Miles completely lost his cool at that point.
This was understandable, as Miles knew that he had little to threaten Hunter with if he pushed the issue. Something that the Fleet Commander was more than willing to do and was planning to do so in the most painful way possible for the Grand Admiral.
"The opinion of the League of Nations is no longer a concern for me or the Union. As I'm also here to inform you that the political body has also been taken over by the Eagle Union and will be reformed once this war is over; the same with Azur Lane." Hunter seemed delighted to inform Miles about this development.
Hunter saw this payback for when Miles had inflicted upon his career while he had been in Azur Lane; as he was now the one dictating his position in the organization he was serving.
"What of the United Kingdom? As Queen Elizabeth will not take too kindly to the Union sticking its nose into their interests, also what of Admiral Nimitz? I know that he wouldn't have sectioned such an action." Miles pointed out this obvious fact to Hunter.
As Miles knew that not even Hunter was blind to how Union-UK relations were now. Even so, he seemed to have already prepared an answer for this in advance.
"We both know that Elizabeth and the United Kingdom had other more pressing problems to deal with at home. As for the Nimitz however, his opinion on this matter is no longer of any consequence." Hunter then informed Miles in the same smug voice.
Miles knew this next question was a trap, but it was a trap that he would have to walk straight into. But much to his surprise it was Biloxi who walked into it.
"I met with the Fleet Admiral Nimitz not only two days before. How could he have changed his mind so quickly?" Biloxi inquired as a smile appeared on Hunters' face.
It was a smile of smug satisfaction; of finally being asked the question he so wanted to answer.
"It's rather simple actually, as Grand Admiral Nimitz, is dead." Hunter took intense pleasure in delivering this news to them.
This came as a complete shock to Biloxi who had just seen Nimitz not only two days ago, as for Miles this meant that all the weapons that he could have used to stop the Union from taking over Azur Lane had been completely taken away from him. But this did not mean that Miles was not going to at least find a way in which he could buy himself a couple of days.
If only to ensure that those who were under his charge would be safely spirited away.
As it was obvious that any attempts to negotiate with Union about their offer were most definitely off the table, especially since the Union had sent Hunter here with enough men and ships to force Miles to comply with their decision.
But before Miles could find his voice one of the soldiers from earlier came running in with a worried experience on his face. Seeing this also, Hunter then turned to look at the man.
"What is it?" The Admiral then inquired of his subordinate.
"Sir, it's!" The man started to explain before Hunter saw what the problem was.
He was completely caught off guard as to who he saw approaching her. For it was a very unwelcome white-haired fox, who was currently surrounded by a group of nervous escorts; as they should have been, for the Empresses of the sea looked less than pleased by this unnecessary honour guard.
That was until she caught sight of Hunter, at which point Yamato's neutral face was blemished with a small frown.
'Shit!' That was what everyone there was thinking.
As both Miles and Hunter knew that when that small broad frown came across Yamato's face. People tended to die. It was like clockwork with her. This was going to be the case once again, as one of Hunter's men, who had absolutely no idea as to the danger he was in obstructed her path.
"I need you to put this on if you wish to approach our commander, fox." The corporal did nothing to help his standing in Yamato's mind.
"Do you know who you're speaking to whelp?" Yamato's voice went cold as she said this.
"A vixen that needs to know her place; the cuffs go on, or we can take you to the brig." The attitude of their commander had made its way down to the rank and file.
This was the worst thing that could have happened to them. As they currently were not dealing with Union Ship-girl or one that would bow to their authority like most others; no, they were dealing with Yamato, who was not at all like most other Ship-girls that Union personnel were used to dealing with.
Then without saying anything the man tried to place the cuff on her. Yamato responded by slipping her hand around the cuffs and trying to take a step back, that was until he grabbed her at which point, she lost patience, immediately breaking the poor man's wrist before he could even have a chance to cuff her.
"Don't you dare touch me, you Union swain!" The cool fury in Yamato's voice made everyone take an involuntary step back.
Without so much as a warning, the man who was currently nursing his broken wrist suddenly found that his troubles were not over. As he then found that he had been lifted off the ground by the very hand that had broken his wrist only moments before.
As this was happening Miles then heard soldiers readying their weapons, all the while Yamato rigging swag its guns into position to target the nearest ship. All the while he could feel Biloxi tensing up, ready to grab Miles and whisk him to safety. Or if it came to it, take Admiral Hunter as a hostage to get the men to stand down.
Realizing at this point that he was the only one in a position to defuse the situation, Miles quickly started throwing out orders before this standoff turned into a blood bath.
"Hunter, call off your men! Yamato stand down!" Miles barked.
For a long terrible moment, no one did a thing, as Yamato and Hunter looked eyes at one another. Each is testing the other; all the while the man in her grasp was turning blue.
At which point Hunter broke his gaze from Yamato's, as he then turned to his men.
"Lower your weapons. But shot her if he dies!" Hunter added in this last part.
Because he did not trust the battleship not to simply kill, he charges without a reason. As everyone then waited for an agonizing moment to see where Yamato would follow Miles's command.
As not even Miles knew that she would. No, it was not until the man turned gray and was about to crock did, she releases him.
"You only live," The fox started as she then turned away from him, "Because of the respect I have for my Shikikan judgment. Don't forget that whelp."
The warning was clear to all present as Yamato was not going to spare anyone a second time now. No matter what the consequences might be, for either herself or the Commander she calmed to respect, as an Empress's favour was most fleeting.
But her favor was not the problem now so much as her very presence here was for both Admirals.
More so for Miles, as he had yet to send in the paperwork to officially announce Yamato's rejoining Azur Lane. This meant as of this moment Yamato had no legal immunity as he had Spee had, for that very reason Hunter could easily claim that he was harbouring her in bad faith and use this to oust him from his position as the head of Azur Lane without any issue.
Miles knew that and he was certain that Yamato was more than aware of this fact as well. As such Alex failed to understand what she had been thinking when she had revealed herself to him.
Even so, Miles would simply just have to play the hand he was dealt and try to figure out what Yamato gained by doing this.
"I'm glad that you would grant someone mercy on my behalf." Miles sounded as grateful as he could at Yamato's high praise.
"A gift of the good faith; but let us not dwell on this, for I have business with the Unions… commander." Yamato also seemed to compose herself as she said this.
No doubt because she was aware that this was not simply a talk between equals.
But a dual between two rival powers, as each wanted something from the other and neither one was willing to give ground to their demands.
Even so for Hunter's part, he found himself in a bit of a bind. Because as much as he might have wanted to capture the rogue Kansen. He knew that he risked not being able to fulfill his current orders if he attempted to do so. Besides, there were two factors that he had to consider before trying to take such an action, one was the fact that if it came down to a fight Hunter was not sure he had enough ships and troops to subdue her and the second fact was that he knew that his old, friend was in league with her.
So, for the moment Hunter knew that he simply had to play along until he found an opportunity to exploit. But knowing that this conversation between him and the Empress of the Sea was likely to be a heated, Hunter wanted to ensure that there was no reason as to why the Empress of the Sea had any real reason to become annoyed with him.
Less he find himself in a similar position to his corporal. As such, Hunter turned to the leader of his guard.
"Ensure that no one approached that ship! I don't need you or anyone else getting themselves killed without a good fuck reason!" Hunter barked at the man.
"But our orders regarding this eventuality are too!" One of Hunters' men started to speak before he cut them off.
"I'm more than aware of that. So let me deal with them. You have your orders; NOW SEE TO THEM!" Hunter bellowed; letting the frustration he was feeling at this situation enter his voice.
"Understood," The young man said, as he then took one last look at his commander, Miles and the two Ship-girls before leaving to rejoin his squad.
Everyone there seemed to wait until they were alone before continuing their earlier conversation.
"So, where were we before we got distracted?" Hunter asked as he prepared himself for what he knew was coming.
"You informed us of Nimitz passing." Biloxi supplied helpfully, all the while allowing Yamato to catch up as to what was taking place.
"Ah, yes that. It is rather regretful to lose such an important member of the navy at this crossroad." Hunter sounded bored as he said this.
Silently showing how he felt about Nimitz's death. Even so, this was quickly forgotten once the Empress of the Seas spoke up once again.
"My apologies for the loss of Nimitz; I knew him as an honourable man, but we mustn't dwell on his loss. For I have something that must be addressed, lest it causes any problems." Yamato spoke plainly, for she knew that there was no other way of going about such things.
"What might that be?" Hunter asked curiously, uncertain as to what problem the Empresses of the sea were about to inform him about.
As such, Hunter kept up his guard fully expecting something bad.
"I wished to speak of my transfer to Azur Lane," Yamato dropped this on everyone there.
Even Miles was taken aback by how casually the battleship had brought up this topic, as even if he had been drunken Miles would not have been so foolish as to give Hunter this information.
But it was too late to do anything about it now. As the provable cat was out of the bag, Hunter then allowed a small smile to creep onto his face.
"Yes, let us speak about that. I believe that it will be something we would all benefit from. But I must inform you that it is the Union, not Azur Lane that will be deciding that matter of your transfer." Hunter informed the battleship.
"Is it now? I was under the impression that Miles had the authority and final say in such things. Dose's he not now?" Yamato then asked as she then flashing Alex a small smile.
It was at this point that he realized what Yamato was doing. As she was using herself as a distraction to pull attention away from her ship, which Leipzig and Hiryuu were currently sheltering.
Having now realized this Miles knew that if Yamato were going to make this gamble work, she would need both him and Biloxi to play their parts without fully knowing what they were; something that Biloxi was rather poor at if she were not apprised of ahead of time, as such he would have to find a way of letting Cruiser know what they were doing.
Less the light cruiser unwittingly derailed their entire gambit.
But they could figure out how to let Biloxi in on what they were doing later because right now they needed to keep Hunter's attention solely focused on Yamato and the transfer papers that Miles currently had in his briefcase. Because this alone should be enough to keep Hunter and his men from boarding Yamato's hull.
Not with the chance that Hunter could force her to either fight against her fellow countrymen, or what he most desired, to bring the Sakura Empire's greatest prize back to the Union in chains. So, no matter the outcome Hunter saw a win no matter what happened unless of course Miles and Yamato were able to get the outcome they wanted.
Still, this would not be easy, as they would need to maneuver Hunter into a position in which he was forced to make either a compromise or simply accept the fact that Yamato was under Miles's authority.
As either outcome would give Miles enough time to figure out a way to smuggle her, Leipzig, and Hiryuu off base, this entire plan hinged on whether they could pull off this gambit and play for time.
"As far as I'm aware, I still have full say over Azur Lane until the transition of command is complete," Miles said, as Hunter had yet to explain how the chain of authority was to be treated in the meantime.
As such Miles was willing to take a risk and see just how much time he still had in command.
"I have been given command of Azur Lane during this transition period." Hunter then informed everyone there.
"I was unaware that this had taken place. I would've imagined that Miles would've informed me if that was the case." The calm voice of Yamato seemed completely unconscious as to the implications this might mean for her personal.
"Well as you well know, in times of war events tend to move rather quickly." Hunter then stated, realizing what was happening and knowing full well that he needed to get a grip on the situation before it got too far out of his control.
"Quickly enough that someone can overstep the chain?" It was Biloxi who asked this question.
"Only if it serves the betterment of the nation one is serving," Hunter replied, only reminding Biloxi as to why she so detested the man.
Because she knew what Hunter meant when he said that. This reminded her why she would never forgive him, for that very line of thought had cost Biloxi two of her sisters. As in his rush to get his troops onto the beach, Hunter had ordered two of her sisters: Little Rock and Houston to act as a screen against the enemy forces attempting to destroy his ground troops.
Enemies that should have already been either forced away or destroyed, but no. Hunter had planned it so that landings would take place while the sea battle was ongoing to provide cover.
But when an unexpected enemy reserve came out from behind the island and made a beeline for the troop ships. Hunter had ordered the two cruisers to what was exactly their deaths, as Biloxi was certain that Hunter had known that the two of them could not have held off a reserve of that size but had still sent them anyway.
Nor should they have to in the first place. But what was worse than that and cemented Biloxi burning hatred towards him, was the way he filled the report to cover up his oversight and instead blame the two Kansen for allowing them to slip through the screen.
Biloxi's pure and utter disgust at the way he had treated their memories was beyond words for her.
'All for the betterment of one's nation…' The hypocrisy of the words was not lost on her.
But Biloxi kept quiet as she knew that what she had to say would not help Yamato and Mile in what they were trying to achieve. As the light cruiser had absolutely no idea as to what it was, they were trying to achieve, but she knew that the only thing she could do to help them was to simply keep her mouth shut.
"Even if that means you must give a pardon to a former enemy?" Miles asked, twisting Hunters' words back upon him.
"Only if they're willing to give something of equal value in exchange," Hunter stated his unspoken terms.
As Yamato then jumped on the opening that Hunter had provided.
"An interesting idea, though I would imagine that it would take trust between the two parties for even such an idea to be entertained," Yamato said as she took a long pull of her pipe, waiting for Hunter's reply.
"Even if there's not that I'm certain that there's someone who would confirm their trustworthiness to the other part." Hunter then scoffed, knowing what Yamato was implying to him.
"If that's the case, then why not involved an unaffiliated third party?" Yamato asked, at which point Miles knew what he had to do.
The transfer papers were key to all this. Because if he could do as what Yamato was silently hinting at, then they would have all the time they would need.
Even so, there was just the problem of making Hunter accept this as the best solution to the current situation. Still, this would be rather easy to do if Miles played his cards right. For he already had his ace.
"If that's the case, then may I offer a possible solution." Miles offered, to which Hunter laughed as he then spoke.
"That solution is that you would be that third party? Please, we all know what kind of verdict you would render." Hunter scoffed at the idea.
As he knew that Miles knew better than to suggest something so transparent. Miles must have known that Hunter would have never agreed to have him rule on such an important matter.
"Not me, but rather a joint board of inquiry. That was chosen by the League of Nations to rule on these issues." Miles laid out his proposal.
Even though Miles knew that the Union fully controlled the League now, there was enough power still in some of its members that they could at the very least call onto provide a couple of personnel that were in no way involved with this matter.
Especially since Queen Elizabeth would most certainly want a say in the matter once she learned about it. For desperate their colourful history, Yamato and Elizabeth respected one another as warriors.
As sovereigns, that was a different matter for one who claimed to be the Empresses of the seas, while the other claimed the right to rule the seas.
But for now, Miles had to focus on the man who was now making claims that he and his government now controlled Azur Lane. For Hunter had finally given his response.
"Unless you have something that would warrant that kind of action; as I can't authorize that sort of act, nor bring it to a board of inquiry," Hunter informed him.
Miles got a small nod from Yamato, and he then moved in for the kill.
"I do have something," Miles said as he then started reaching for the papers, "As I do believe that this would require a board of inquiry, less you wish to run the risk of scandal," Miles said calmly as he then brought out a copy of the transfer papers he had sent to the League of Nations.
For a moment Hunter simply looked at the papers, as if he were trying to decide whether he should acknowledge them.
But knowing the trouble that he could cause if he simply ignored this with witnesses present, Hunter took the papers from Miles' hands and looked over them.
"You said that you've already submitted this to the League of Nations?" Hunter asked again, wanting to confirm his memory.
"I have," Miles confirmed, as Hunter continued looking over the papers.
Then with a sigh, Hunter looked away from the papers and at Miles.
"Very well then, I will take this to the admiralty with your purposes. We'll see what happens from there." Hunter said, barely keeping his anger in check.
But this was not the time to push this issue Hunter knew, as Miles still held a great deal of pullback in the Union. Still, Hunter knew that this would change soon enough once the new command structure was installed in Azur Lane, at which point Hunter could start making his moves against Miles. But for the moment he would simply have to accept this checkmate, even as much as it might irk him to be outmaneuvered by Miles.
Even so, Hunter knew that there was plenty of time for him to set the score for all Miles' transgressions later. As he needed to have Miles on his side for the next little while to make sure that this transition when as smoothly as possible.
"I'm glad we could come to an accommodation," Miles said simply, trying not to let anything colour his voice.
"I'm certain that you are. We will meet once the Union finalizes your position in the new command structure; until then you have command of Azur Lane. You're dismissed, Alex." Hunter did not refer to Miles by his rank to show his bitterness at being cheated out of his prize.
Even so, no one said anything until Hunter had rejoined his guards and started moving further into the port.
"This isn't over," Biloxi said once Hunter was out of hearing range.
"No, the fool hell-bent on revenge." Yamato stated simply as she then took a pull of her pipe before blowing it out and continuing to speak, "I fear that he will have every opportunity to act on it. No matter the consequences that it might manifest later on." She commented, all the while the Grand Admiral was deep in his thoughts.
As Miles was still coming to terms with the fact that he had been forced to compromise on his dream, despite knowing that he had little choice in this matter, Miles knew deep down something was deeply wrong for the Union to make such a move. Or the Union was no longer playing keeping up with what he had long suspected had been underneath the facade they showed to the other nations.
Because if either one of these was indeed the case, then things had changed more in the Eagle Union than Miles had even realized.
"Biloxi, have Belfast set up that drink; expect friends, it is going to be a long night," Miles said; knowing that he needed to speak with them about what the future would hold.
Hunter and his small retinue of bodyguards slowly made their way to the old barracks, where the Union ship-girls had stayed when they had officially been stationed here. From what Hunter could see from here it was obvious that the building had not been maintained.
This was expected, as there many other buildings that he had passed also been neglected as well as the Grand Admiral had not had the manpower to devote to this take given the skeleton crew that Azur Lane had to work with over the last couple of years. Still, Hunter would see that this issue was rectified once Union material and personnel started pouring into the base.
It was at this point that Hunter noticed that one of his lieutenants seemed to have something on his mind.
"What is it, lieutenant?" Hunter then asked as they continued walking.
"Um, sir I don't mean to ask. But why didn't you let them go free?" He then asked.
'Ah, that's it,' Hunter should have expected this to come up.
"I merely decided that letting Miles have this victory was worth the cost of his silence cooperation." Hunter then explained to his lieutenant.
"But you let him have his way, won't that because of a problem for us in the future?" He then inquired.
At which point Hunter made a note of the man's name, for he might amount to something later. But that was for the future, as he responded to the question he so obviously wanted to be answered.
"Not really, I'm just merely giving Miles enough rope to hang himself as it were." Hunter then explained to the man.
Because Hunter knew that the foolish son of a diplomat would eventually walk into the nose of his own making.
That he was certain, as Miles had a bleeding heart for this Kansen's.
'The fool,' Hunter thought to himself.
As Hunter saw the Ship-girls now differently than he saw his marines. Simple tools to be used to gain an objective, as it was up to him to command the battle while for the Kansen's it was up to whoever he put in charge to keep her charges alive.
Most commanders Hunter knew saw this and understood this. Even so, he could not help but notice how soft certain Commanders were on their Ship-girls, but that was to be expected Hunter knew.
But this was not relevant to the current conversation as the lieutenant then spoke up.
"But isn't that dangerous, as all know that Miles has managed to do more with less in the past?" The lieutenant asked his CO.
To which Hunter scoffed, as he then responded.
"I wouldn't worry about our esteemed Admiral. I for one don't expect that he won't be with us for long; in fact, you can count on that." Hunter assured him, guard, as they then entered the building to begin the inspection of their newest base.
Anyway, I hope that this chapter was worth the wait.
As we are seeing the first line in my summary starting to play out, as Miles is being stripped of command authority over Azur Lane.
But as to how fast, we shall see but I am certain that most of you have figured out just what happened and why the Union would have taken the steps to… ensure their security.
While also showing the set-up of whatever Observer Zeta has planned so we will have to wait and see what the response is from everybody about this. Still, we will at the very least be able to see the reaction of all the Kansen station on Azur Lane in the next chapter.
So, until then have a good one!
