*Disclaimer - I do not own the copyright for Kingdom Hearts or Azur Lane
*A/N - Once again thanks for all the reviews and comments about the story. Sorry for the long wait time. I blame Fire Emblem Three Hopes and Xenoblade Chronicles 3 lol.
I'm also aware that there was some confusion on the part of the Sakura Empire not wanting to destroy Azur Lane, but also leaning on the mindset of defeating AL while also in cahoots with the Sirens. That is my fault. I didn't properly explain it and I'm sorry for that. What I had wanted was for there to be some discourse between what the Sakura Empire and Akagi truly wanted.
Hence, Akagi working to find a way to help Amagi with her sickness while working with the Sirens, but then what would happen after Amagi is healed? Moreover, the Sirens are the real enemy, and now with the Heartless things are going to change. I never really saw that all the girls in each faction wanted to kill and destroy each other. Completely that is. Therefore, I'll make sure to get this issue resolved and clear than being confusing.
Thanks again for giving this story a read and sticking along the ride. I'm still somewhat following the path of the anime, but soon things will divert greatly thanks to Sora.
In any case, I hope you have a great day and look forward to more to come.
Staring right at Akagi's gloved hand, Sora knew it was wise not to try any tricks against her since she could lash out at any given moment. He had no idea who Akagi was and only knew of her in passing. Plus, he already offered himself willingly to be her prisoner. If he tried to back out, then things would most likely go from bad to worse in a matter of seconds.
Letting out a sigh, Sora looked Akagi right into her ruby red eyes and nodded his head while de-summoning his Keyblade and speaking to her.
"Alright, I ask you to keep up your end of the deal, Akagi," Sora said with a serious expression on his face.
"Heehee, why of course, Sora, I may be many things, but I at least honor my word" Akagi replied while raising her right gloved hand in the air and flicking it back causing a flash of fire to appear and then disappear. However, there was something now in her hands.
Walking slowly toward Sora and getting closer and closer, Akagi gave a sweet yet mischievous smile while closing her eyes. She then raised her gloved hand and a bright flame appeared. A moment later the flame faded away and within her grasp was a pair of handcuffs.
"I trust you know what to do with this ~," Akagi said while handing Sora the handcuffs causing him to remain quiet but pick up the cuffs.
Beginning to place them in his hands, Sora was about to finish but was stopped short by the yells of his friends from Azur Lane.
"Sora! Wait! Stop! You don't have to go through with it! We can beat her" Cleaveland yelled while looking exasperated at what was going on.
"Sora there has to be another way! Let us help you!" echoed Wales who was looking very distressed at what was transpiring.
"Please! Listen to us, Sora! Together we can get through this! Her majesty is not that far we can rely on her to help us! Please stop!" Hood exclaimed while looking back and forth between Akagi and Sora.
"Sora! Stop acting foolish and let us help you!" Enterprise said while clutching onto her bow while her knuckles were beginning to change colors. The feeling of helplessness was flooding her vision. Memories of when Yorktown was badly injured and there was nothing she could do.
Unicorn on the other hand looked devastated. The sight of her newly appointed and admired big brother putting handcuffs on himself while also being taken away to save her and the others. Something new and amazing brought into her life is now being forcibly whisked away. Turning to look at Sora with sadness in her eyes, Unicorn quietly muttered, "Sora…".
Turning to look at Unicorn, Sora could tell that she was feeling many emotions running through her heart. Sadness and worry were being expressed on her face. He felt terrible at making his newly appointed sibling sad, but this was something that he had to do.
Getting Akagi and the Sirens to back off from Azur Lane at least until they were ready to strike back was Sora's goal. Plus, being taken prisoner would allow him to get closer to the Sakura Empire and see how things were going on her there.
Deciding that he had delayed long enough, Sora gave a confident and warm smile to Unicorn while confiding in her.
"Hey, it's going to be alright, Unicorn. We'll see each other soon. I've got this".
Hearing and seeing Sora give off a reassuring attitude, Unicorn felt a vote of confidence that things would be okay. In return, Unicorn nodded at his words.
Sora then turned to look over at Wales, Hood, Cleaveland, and Enterprise seeing that they also had signs of worry stricken on their faces. He then looked each one of them right in the eyes almost as if he was telling them, it'll be alright. One by one each of the girls' faces transitioned from concern to understanding.
The realization settled in that while they could not do anything now, the time for them to act would soon come.
Seeing that things were calming down, Sora finished putting the handcuffs on and looked over at Akagi who seemed to be staring at him intently. She then asked, "I take it you're done here".
"Yeah, I am," Sora said walking toward Akagi leaving his new friends behind.
"Very well, until we meet again, Azur Lane…" Akagi proclaimed before pushing Sora ahead to take him to her ship.
Not wanting to set Akagi off, Sora continued to walk forward and most likely toward the ship that was moving away slowly. Akagi followed closely behind Sora causing him to slightly tense up. He even felt something brush against his leg.
Looking down, he spotted one of Akagi's tails touching his leg. Any normal person would begin to freak out or get worried about a girl with real fox-like characteristics. But Sora had been to many different worlds where the people there had many different features.
Hood was feeling many emotions running through her head and was coming up with solutions to try and save Sora, but alas before she could do anything, her radio started to pick up and someone was trying to reach her.
Activating her radio, Hood responded, "Hello? Do you read me?".
"Hood, do you copy? This is Belfast coming up on your position. What is the situation?" the voice of Belfast responded.
"The worst case I'm afraid. Sora has elected to offer himself as a prisoner to Akagi to stave off her forces" Hood answered with a frown.
"This is grave news… her majesty will not take kindly to how the situation has transpired. How is everyone else?" Belfast asked.
"Wales and Cleaveland are alright. Minor injuries and restock of ammunition are all. Unicorn, however…" Hood said while looking over at Unicorn who had her head down while clutching onto U-chan. "She…she's going through quite a lot right now. Shock and sadness are most likely what she's feeling" Hood explained.
"I see… Unicorn has never had something like this happen to her before" Belfast said, realizing that Unicorn must be at a loss.
However, before Belfast could say anything else her radio picked up another channel requesting her to answer.
"Excuse me, Hood. Her majesty is calling for an update. I'll let her know what has transpired and request she hastens to reach your destination" Belfast said.
"Understood, Belfast. See you soon" Hood said before silencing her radio and confiding in Wales and Cleaveland.
Wales on her part was still watching Sora and Akagi getting further and further towards her ship. Seeing Sora both so close yet so far was bothering her very much. The desire to chase after him and help him get away from Akagi was tempting, Wales knew it was a bad idea.
Thankfully, before she could act, Hood appeared in her vision and looked as if something was on her mind.
"Hood! Was that her majesty that you were just talking with right now?" Wales asked.
"No, that was Belfast. She inquired about the situation" Hood responded while looking out at the sea to see that Sora and Akagi were a great distance away and now making their way onto the deck of the ship.
"And? Are she and her majesty going to help us bring Sora back?!" Cleveland asked, looking anxious and eager to help her friend.
Shaking her head, Hood answered, "No, Belfast was sent on a scouting mission to reconvene with us but since the situation has changed, she will fall back and catch up with her majesty who will then make her way to our location".
"But… What about Sora?! Are we just going to let him get taken away?" Cleveland said looking out at the sea and the ship that Sora was now on.
"Cleveland, I know how you feel. I too want to rush out there and bring back Sora. But we must be careful with how we proceed from here" Wales said, looking at Akagi's ship in the distance.
"Wales is right. Most of our forces are not here. If we try to launch a counterattack, then we will be overwhelmed and most likely suffer significant casualties. The best way forward is to wait for her majesty and go from there" Hood explained.
Letting out a sigh, Cleveland could only watch as the ship that Sora was on was now getting further and further away. The trio all wanted to help their new friend but could see that now was not the time. However, the time would come when they would fight with everything they had to save Sora.
Having been pushed onto the deck of the ship, Sora was still staying silent while trying to get a better read on Akagi. She had also been quiet while sticking next to him the entire trek over to the ship. Seeing that she had not lashed out at him, Sora was about to ask her something when several individuals appeared on the deck.
Sora could recognize two of the individuals that showed up on the deck. Two he did not know or interact with. Zuikaku and Kaga were the two he recognized. The other two not so much.
Before he could think about who the other two were, Akagi began speaking to everyone, "Now then, I'd say that the operation was a success~".
"Dear sister, are you sure it's alright for him to be here?" Kaga said while glaring at Sora.
"It's fine, Kaga. Even if he tries anything, I'll make sure that his friends are the ones to suffer the consequences" Akagi said, waving her gloved hand in the air to summon fire and threaten Sora.
"As long as you keep your end of the deal, I'll keep mine," Sora replied, not fazed at all by Akagi's fire.
"Well, at least he has some bravery," Kaga said, still glaring at Sora.
"Some bravery huh… hey sis, what do you think about him? You've gotten to duel against him?" the white-haired girl asked Zuikaku.
Looking at Sora and then her sister, Zuikaku responded, "Having dueled against him only for a short time, I can also vouch that Sora is indeed brave. He knows how to handle a blade".
"Well now, that's certainly a compliment. My sister isn't very good with her feelings so to hear that she thinks highly of you, Sora is something noteworthy" the white-haired girl said.
"Uhm… Thank you… sorry I don't know who you are exactly?" Sora said.
"Oh! Where are my manners? My name is Shoukaku. I'm Zuikaku's big sister" the girl now known as Shoukaku said.
"Wait? Sis! I don't think highly of him! All I said was that he was brave and knew how to fight! I wasn't complimenting him!" Zuikaku shouted with a blush appearing on her face.
Sora could only chuckle at Shoukaku teasing Zuikaku and seeing that the two had a close sisterly relationship.
"..."
However, the other girl wearing the hat with short platinum blonde hair with a black, red, and yellow ribbon was not saying anything and continued observing Sora closely. She had a different attire compared to the others and looked like she was from another faction.
Seeing that there was nothing more to do until they reached the Sakura Empire, Akagi called out to Sora.
"Now then, Sora, I believe I have some questions for you seeing that you are the esteemed guest of honor here," Akagi said.
"...And what are your questions?" Sora responded while going from happy-go and cheerful to serious and observant.
"You are not affiliated with Azur Lane. Seeing that you did not know who Enterprise or I was back when we first crossed paths. Correct?" Akagi stated while crossing her arms under her ample chest and staring right at Sora's blue eyes.
"You're correct about that," Sora answered.
"And since you have no real allegiance with Azur Lane, you're free to go wherever you please. Is that right?" Akagi asked.
"You could say that. But it was thanks to everyone back at the island that I was able to learn more about where I ended up" Sora answered, knowing that Akagi was going to start grilling him about more sensitive topics.
"I see… And just how did you manage to end up in the middle of the ocean?" Akagi asked.
The other girls were remaining quiet and listened to the two conversations while also learning more about Sora.
"... I don't know," Sora said, closing his eyes.
"You don't know? What kind of answer is that? I asked how you ended up in the middle of the ocean. You should, at least have some kind of an answer" Akagi said, growing irritated by Sora's answer.
"That's the truth. I remember being in one place and then I blacked out. And then I woke up in the middle of the ocean. After walking for some time, I heard gunfire and explosions going off and ran toward the sounds. Once I spotted some ships, I then found you, Kaga, and Enterprise" Sora replied.
Akagi glared at Sora, not believing his answer, and realizing that he was lying. Kaga on her part was analyzing him and thought that his response was suspicious. Part of it sounded real, but there was something about waking up in the water that wasn't entirely making sense. Either way, Kaga continued to watch Sora closely. Shoukaku brought out her flute and began to clean it while also observing Sora, not having any opinion on Sora's answer yet. Z23 continued to stay quiet and off to the side.
Zuikaku however processed everything Sora said and began to enter deep thought. If what Sora said was true, then there was more than meets the eye with him. Perhaps he's from a Mirror Sea or suffering from amnesia. Or he's an undercover spy that will act on command. Many thoughts were racing around in Zuikaku's head that caused her to let out a frustrated sigh. She figured that it would be best to continue to watch him and learn more about him.
Akagi scoffed at Sora before closing her eyes and then opening them ready to ask the boy more questions.
"Alright then… since you have no real affiliation with Eagle Union or the Royal Navy or even Azur Lane, why don't you lend the Sakura Empire your support?" Akagi asked with her ruby red eyes peering right at Sora's blue eyes.
"I'm sorry. But my answer is no" Sora proclaimed.
"No? You do know that you are on my ship. If I wanted to, I could burn you in flames and turn you to ashes in an instant" Akagi said, threatening him while summoning fire in the palm of her hand.
"I understand, Akagi. But I'm not going to turn my back on my friends. Especially since they welcomed me with open arms. I won't betray my friends no matter what you say" Sora said, confidence coming from his words.
Most of the girls were taken back by how determined and strong-willed Sora was acting even against Akagi who was known to be dangerous at times. Nobody knew just what to say therefore a wave of silence consumed the area. However, after a few seconds passed, Akagi began laughing.
"Heheheh, my my, you really are something, Sora. Even with the threat of me turning you to ashes, you are still not going to betray your friends" Akagi said while narrowing her eyes at Sora.
"My friends are my power and without them, I wouldn't be here. Besides, you're not the only one who can play with fire" Sora remarked, having a cocky grin on his face.
Akagi was taken back and wide-eyed at Sora's comeback given that she was not expecting him to say something along those lines. All the other girls were shocked and looking right at Sora who still had his cocky grin. Akagi in any other situation would've lashed out but this time she wanted to see how confident Sora was and if he could back up what he said.
"Well now, you sure are confident in your abilities," Akagi said.
"I have to be. Many people are counting on me" Sora replied, remembering all the lives he's saved.
"So, you see yourself as a hero? Well then, why don't you lend a hand to the Sakura Empire and help us? Hero." Akagi asked extending her hand to Sora.
"And side with the Sirens? No thanks. You do know they are a lot more troublesome than you think" Sora said, taking a glance at Akagi's extended hand.
"Siding with the Sirens is a gamble, no doubt. But… with their help, we may have a chance to save not only our home but the world. The Iron Blood came to that same realization hence the creation of the Red Axis" Akagi explained pulling her hand back.
"…"
Zuikaku, Shoukaku, and Z23 were silent and had complacent expressions on their faces. The two sisters understood that their superiors were the ones to make the call for siding with the Sirens and that there wasn't much they could do to change the situation. Even if it didn't sit right with either of them, the cooperation with the Sirens did bring a sense of relief that their home and friends would be out of danger. For the time being.
Not to mention that not everyone in the Sakura Empire agreed that their superiors were working with the Sirens. If lines were crossed or lives were lost, then that would surely lead to some big problems. The kansens of the Sakura Empire would look at their leaders differently and rifts would begin to form. The thought was quite worrisome.
Z23 on her part was quietly watching the situation play out. Her order from Prinz Eugen was to follow Akagi's command and record all incidents that occurred under her watch. Hence, the involvement of this Sora would be something that she would need to document and report to Eugen. This mysterious boy was an unknown factor that appeared out of nowhere.
However, Z23 or well Nimi as her friends would call her to tease her. Did feel regret deep in her heart. Having been told by her superiors that the Iron Blood was to be working to some degree with the Sirens was something she didn't quite know how to feel about. In addition, other factions had struck a deal or two with the Sirens already. On one hand, the impending doom the Sirens presented would be stopped or better yet delayed. But the realization that she was siding with the enemy against humanity did make her feel sick at first.
But orders are orders. She would have to put her trust in the Iron Blood and her friend, Bismarck, that siding with the Sirens would be the best path forward.
Undoubtedly, Sora had problems with Akagi's statement along with some confusion. Deciding to seek some answers, Sora began to question her.
"Akagi…I don't understand what you are saying. First, you tell me that want to crush Azur Lane with the Sirens' help. Then you tell me that you want Azur Lane to lay down their arms to help you defeat the Sirens. And now you're asking for my help regarding the Sakura Empire? I don't get it…" Sora explained, looking distraught at Akagi's behavior.
Akagi briskly closed her gloved hand and slowly began walking in front of Sora looking out at the ocean. She then started to speak in a somber yet determined tone of voice.
"… there is no victory if you have failed to protect what it was you were fighting for"
Shen then turned around to face Sora while her brown tails swayed in the wind. Red eyes once again encountering blue eyes.
"What I seek… what I truly seek is power. Power to change not only my fate but the fate of those I love. Even if I must challenge the entire world. I will do whatever it takes to achieve that power. Hence, even siding with the Sirens who are the whole reason we as kansens exist. I'll do whatever it takes to change fate. Because…love makes you do crazy things…" Akagi said closing her eyes and then opening them.
However, Sora could've sworn that for a split second there Akagi had two different emotional expressions on her face. One is that of determination and malevolence. The other being that of sadness and… Remorse? Regret? Sora wasn't entirely sure, but he did feel that something was wrong with her.
Deciding to take a better look at Akagi as a whole, Sora closed his eyes and called upon his heart to guide him in finding out what was wrong with her. Upon opening his eyes, Sora looked right at Akagi's heart and then peered around the rest of her noticing something alarming.
The aura around Akagi was that of darkness. A darkness he was experienced in identifying thanks to his many adventures. Understanding more about the heart and the impact darkness had on a person was something Sora could sense.
Sadness. Regret. Anger. Malevolence. Fear. Grief. Worry. Anxiety.
Darkness was something Sora wanted to learn more about. Thanks to Riku and the trials he went through conquering his own darkness. Sora could count on his best friend to explain more about the dangers that darkness brings and how to counter the darkness. Or better yet find a way to make peace with the darkness while staying true to the light. Finding another choice or better yet another road. The road to Twilight.
Before Sora could continue to observe the darkness around Akagi, Kaga venomously shouted at him.
"You insolent pervert! How dare you! How dare you look at my dear sister's bosom like that!" Kaga shouted, summoning blue fire around her.
Sora fell silent as he realized what he was doing. Blinking several times, Sora shook his head as he realized where he was looking. His eyes were directed right at her large breasts that were barely being held back by her shirt. Sora paled.
The other girls were shocked at where Sora was looking and couldn't believe that he was acting outright like a pervert. Before anyone could say anything and before Akagi's sanity could snap, Sora screamed.
Waving his hands in front of him so fast that they started to become hard to see, Sora stuttered while sweating furiously, "I-I-I'm Sorry! I wasn't looking at your c-chest! I was looking at the rest of you!... No, wait! I was looking at yo…" Sora shouted but was cut off by Akagi's death stare.
"So, you were staring at me? Have you come to the realization that this body is perfection? If that's so, then know that this is the closest you will ever get to seeing my body" Akagi said while summoning a large ball of fire in her hand.
Realizing that he was in a pickle, Sora shouted out his true intentions, "I was looking at your body because of the darkness!".
Akagi stopped herself from turning Sora to a crisp and was dumbstruck at what he said. For someone who was checking her out, saying that they were checking her out because of the darkness on her body was puzzling. Becoming curious as to what Sora meant, she stopped her flames and questioned him.
"Explain yourself. Why were you looking at me like that?" Akagi asked.
Feeling extremely nervous about his answer and the trouble it could bring his way, Sora began to explain his actions.
"I…I sensed something was bothering you. So, I looked at your heart and then the rest of you and spotted something… off" Sora explained hoping that was a sufficient answer.
"…"
Akagi remained silent while glaring holes into Sora. Either his explanation was ignored entirely, and she was utterly pissed and wanted nothing to do with him. Or… what he said about noticing something off was right on the money. Kaga meanwhile was fuming and summoned her riggings that appeared after a blue cube started to glow around her.
The other girls were staying silent and waiting to see what would happen next.
"…Zuikaku, Shoukaku, take him down to the brig. Make sure your ships are on standby mode in case Azur Lane tries anything" Akagi said turning to the two crane sisters.
"Understood, Akagi" Shoukaku replied while looking at her Zuikaku who was walking up to Sora to take him to the brig.
"Follow me. Don't try any funny business" Zuikaku remarked while walking forward with Sora letting out a sigh and following her.
Shoukaku walked behind Sora ready if he tried anything, but if he was smart, then he wouldn't dare try anything. Even Sora was thinking the same thing that if he tried to bust out of his cuffs and the jailcell with his Keyblade, the Sakura Empire girls would be on his butt. Plus, he's not familiar with this world yet and doesn't even have a map.
Watching Zuikaku and Shoukaku take Sora to the brig, Z23 began to wonder what exactly Sora meant when he was explaining himself for looking at Akagi's chest and body. He didn't exactly strike her as the flirtatious type. Hence, Z23 began to consider his words carefully.
Kaga on the other hand was livid, "That perverted dastard. Does he have any idea just who you are, Akagi?!".
"No, Kaga, he doesn't know who I am. Which is why I did not burn him to a crisp" Akagi replied while looking out at the sea with much to think about. What Sora said… at least the part about something wrong with her. That was something to worry about.
Continuing to follow Zuikaku, Sora examined his surroundings and took notice of Akagi's interior design of her ship. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary with many large metal doors and stairs. However, coming up into view, Sora saw Zuikaku opening a door with several locks on it and stepping inside. He followed right behind her and noticed a cell all prepared and ready.
Zuikaku stepped aside and called out to Sora, "If you would, please get in the cell".
Slowly nodding, Sora walked into the cell and sat down on a bench located there. Getting himself situated, he looked at Zuikaku and Shoukaku to see what they would do next.
"So… what's going to happen now? Since I'm basically a prisoner of war now" Sora asked.
"Well… for now it looks like Zuikaku and I will be watching over you in case you try anything funny. Once we return to base, you'll be transferred to our command center. Our faction leader will like an update on the situation as well as a word with you. After that, you'll most likely be placed into our prison holding until further notice" Shoukaku said while pulling out her flute to polish it.
"I see… that makes sense," Sora said, relaxing his body on the bench.
Internally, Zuikaku was fighting the urge to ask Sora what he was trying to explain back on the deck with Akagi and something bothering her. She shouldn't be conversing with the enemy or speaking behind her superiors' backs. But her heart was telling her to ask, and she knew that if she did not ask, then it would eat at her later for not asking Sora. So, Zuikaku prayed to Kami for forgiveness and asked Sora.
"You… what you said back there about Akagi. What was your aim?" Zuikaku said narrowing her gaze on Sora.
"Huh, my aim? You mean when I was, er, staring at her?" Sora asked feeling embarrassed.
"Y-yes, that's what I meant! Were you just ogling at her or… was there really something wrong with Akagi" Zuikaku said growing quiet.
"I wasn't ogling her. Sure, she's very pretty and her tails and ears are very… eye-catching, but there was something wrong with her. I could see that something was bothering her and that her heart was looking clouded" Sora replied while trying to simplify what he noticed.
"Her heart not looking good? What are you even saying?! That's the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard. You're just trying to cover up your perverted tendencies!" Zuikaku shouted, pointing a finger at Sora.
"…Zuikaku. Weren't you the one that was saying that Akagi was acting weird earlier?" Shoukaku asked.
"That was just me being paranoid! You don't actually believe him? Do you sis?" Zuikaku asked while looking exasperated.
"While Sora's explanation does seem farfetched, I believe that his words have some merit to them. Besides, if he was able to notice something about Akagi in only a short period of getting to know her. And we've only noticed something off about her now, then I'm willing to listen to him" Shoukaku answered, looking at Sora seeing that he had a small, tired smile.
"Sigh…alright sis, you win. *Turning to look at Sora* We'll hear you out" Zuikaku said.
"Thanks, Zuikaku. I'll do my best to explain everything" Sora remarked with a friendly smile.
"W-we'll see about that!" Zuikaku replied with a very faint blush.
Nodding his head and taking a deep breath, Sora began discussing what it was that he noticed.
"Alright, so when Akagi was talking about seeking power and wanting to change fate was when I noticed something off about her. One minute she's fine but then her heart is going through various emotional stages. And then there was something quite worrisome about her body" Sora explained, trying to make it so the two girls could understand what he was saying.
"Her body?" Shoukaku asked, confused about what Sora meant.
"I've had experience sensing people's emotions and the energy they give off. After Akagi said those things, I noticed a sort of dark cloud surrounding her. It was like a dark mist oozing off her body. I've seen something like that before" Sora said, remembering the many times in his adventures when someone was being corrupted by the darkness.
Zuikaku remained silent trying to understand what Sora meant about seeing darkness around Akagi. It sounded like crazy talk. But… she lived in a world where attuned World War II ships had come to life from a cube and were forced to fight against an enemy that not much was known about. Closing her eyes and then opening them, Zuikaku decided to truly hear Sora out.
"Sora… what you're saying is… well it's hard to understand," Shoukaku said tugging at her kimono.
"…Though I am not one to easily believe strangers. What you are saying, Sora does have a chance of being true" Zuikaku said looking down at the ground with her arms crossed under her chest.
"Akagi senpai has been different for quite some time. She wasn't always closed off from everyone. Sure, she can be a bit rude or blunt with her insults, but she always tended to be in the public eye and interact with people nonstop" Zuikaku said, reminiscing about Akagi's behavior in the past.
"Wait sis, didn't Akagi start acting differently after... Amagi?" Shoukaku commented which earned Sora a head tilt.
"Amagi? Who is that?" Sora asked.
"Amagi is Akagi and Kaga's older sister. She was badly hurt in an operation that was given to her by our higher-ups. Her Wisdom Cube was damaged in battle and left her injured. After Amagi returned to base, she was forced to be on bed rest until her condition improved. However, her condition never really did improve" Zuikaku said, looking down at the jail cell's floor.
"Amagi's injury impacted all of us in many ways. Amagi had a special relationship with everyone in the Sakura Empire acting like their best friend or even older sister giving words of encouragement and advice whenever needed. Even Lady Nagato has a friendship with Amagi and was ashamed of herself for not doing more to ensure Amagi would come back safe" Zuikaku explained, wincing at how Amagi's injury affected herself.
"As for Akagi and Kaga… well, Kaga has managed to keep herself calm and composed most of the time when it comes to Amagi. Sure, she has moments of weakness but honestly who wouldn't? Akagi on the other hand…" Zuikaku said while cutting herself off.
"Akagi tended to be wrathful and despise anyone coming close to Amagi. It took some time before doctors and healers could help Amagi or even see her. Akagi was always there threatening anyone who tried to get close to her sister. After some time, Akagi let only a small number of people see Amagi, but even then, Akagi has become much colder and distant from everyone. She even acts differently towards Lady Nagato" Shoukaku said, frowning at her rival and friend's strange behavior.
"But what happened to Amagi? Did she…" Sora asked not sure if he should finish what he was implying.
"No, Amagi is still with us. However, she does not have that much longer. At best she has seven more weeks until she… until she no longer has the strength to push on" Zuikaku said, feeling tears start to swell up in the corner of her eyes. Shoukaku was already having tears come down her cheek.
Lowering his head, Sora could understand how important Amagi was to the Sakura Empire and her sisters. The feeling that you could lose someone close to you was something he could understand very well. Even if he was able to save his friends and Kairi, Sora thought of someone that he hasn't seen in quite some time and dearly missed. Someone that meant the world to him and was always there to cheer him on or make him stop crying and smile. His mom…
Not wanting to be enveloped in sadness, Zuikaku patted her eyes and let out a shaky breath before calming herself down.
"Getting back to the topic at hand, Akagi senpai has been acting different ever since Amagi was badly hurt. Hence, the dark mist you saw around her…might be connected to her change in behavior" Zuikaku said, having composed herself.
"That's what I'm thinking. It's not much and I know it's difficult to understand, but Akagi needs to be careful. Although she's acting differently than before, Akagi has the chance of doing something really bad that could be considered irreversible. Not only could it bring down the Sakura Empire and Red Axis… but the entire world could be doomed" Sora proclaimed, wanting to get to the root of Akagi's darkness and the problems it could bring to everyone.
"What? What are you saying, Sora? Are you trying to mess with us? We just discussed with you something private and here you are manipulating us!" Zuikaku shouted, having her hand balled up in anger.
"Zuikaku calm down. Let's hear what he has to say" Shoukaku said, wanting to remain calm-headed before doing something rash.
"…Alright, Sora. Explain yourself" Zuikaku muttered.
"Right. Before I first encountered Akagi, Kaga, and Enterprise, I ended up running into a fleet of many Sirens ships. Ring a bell, Zuikaku?" Sora asked, remembering his encounter in this world.
"The first time I saw you in the distance…" Zuikaku said.
"Yeah, I recall also seeing you from a distance. But before I ran into the others, in the middle of the Siren fleet there was a ship that appeared different from the others" Sora said.
"A different ship? Maybe it was a high-class Siren battlecruiser?" Shoukaku asked, not sure what Sora was getting at.
"No. This ship had a very specific design. A design that… I'm very familiar with" Sora said, with a more serious tone of voice making the crane sisters shift their bodies at how serious Sora was getting.
"You've fought a ship before, Sora?" Shoukaku asked, looking surprised.
"Er… yes. I have fought a ship before. But I've also fought other monsters that have had the same design as the ship I spotted" Sora explained.
"Monsters? Like the monsters, you hear in bedtime stories or folklore?" Zuikaku asked, becoming curious about what Sora meant.
"I…I'm not sure. But the monsters I'm talking about are very dangerous. Dangerous to the point that Akagi has no idea what she's getting herself into" Sora said.
"What are these monsters then?" Shoukaku asked.
"Before I tell you guys, I need you to promise me that you won't tell anyone until the time is right," Sora said while considering that telling these two may or may not be a good idea.
However, the more people that knew about the Heartless, there would be more awareness. Plus, these two were the only ones to hear him out. Heading into a new area with no one on your side will be difficult, but with Zuikaku and Shoukaku to believe then he'll have more support rather than no support at all.
"Why exactly are you asking us to keep this information secret? Is it worrisome?" Shoukaku asked, becoming nervous.
"Yes. This information is worrisome and if word got out then panic would ensue leaving everyone to be corrupted by the darkness" Sora explained, looking at the two sisters.
Zuikaku considering looked at her sister and could see that she was contemplating what to do. Reaching for her hand, Zuikaku squeezed Shoukaku's hand which snapped her out of her deep thought. Letting a small smile grace her lips, Shoukaku nodded her head which gave Zuikaku the confirmation on what to do next.
"Alright, we'll keep our word and not say anything to anyone," Zuikaku said.
"Hmm…the creatures that I've faced before are known as the Heartless. The Heartless come in various types and sizes. Moreover, the Heartless have distinct features, one being an emblem somewhere on their body that consists of red and black. The other notable feature of the Heartless are the large yellow eyes" Sora said.
"The Heartless? Are they really something we need to be worried about?" Shoukaku asked, looking not that worried.
"Although the Heartless don't sound that scary they are something that can't be underestimated. The Heartless are physical, living manifestations of the darkness within people's hearts. They go after people's hearts and end up killing them. People that are killed…they…they end up losing their heart and can even become a Heartless" Sora explained while remembering everything he could about the Heartless thanks to the many Ansem reports he encountered in his adventures.
The two sisters were quiet and in deep thought. The idea that a monster could go after a person's heart and then even turn that person into a monster was something that needed to take time to process. It sounded ridiculous. But hearing Sora go into detail about these monsters made all objections they had to go away.
"There are two types of Heartless. One is an emblem Heartless which is what it sounds like. They usually have an emblem somewhere on their body. The other type of Heartless is known as a Pureblood. They don't have an emblem anywhere on their body which is usually completely covered in a dark color. Purebloods are the most dangerous and the ones you need to look out for" Sora said.
"Do these Heartless have a point of origin? Where do they exactly come from?" Shoukaku asked, standing up straight and now paying close attention.
"Some do. Some don't. It depends on the Heartless, but most of the time the Heartless can appear anytime there are large amounts of darkness in the area. Or there's the chance that Heartless can be spawned from a bigger Heartless that acts like a commander of sorts" Sora said while scratching the back of his head.
"And these… Heartless… how worried should we be about them?" Zuikaku asked, not sure if she would like the answer.
"Very. You should be very worried. I'm not gonna sugarcoat it. The Heartless are a threat that should be considered the most dangerous. Honestly, if the Sirens are working with the Heartless, then things are going to get worse" Sora said while frowning at the possibility.
"Sora… how exactly do you know about these Heartless? It sounds like you've encountered them before, but you seem to have an abundance of knowledge about them" Shoukaku asked.
"I have encountered them many times. Having to adapt and survive against the Heartless is something I've been doing for the past few years now" Sora said.
"Sounds like you've been through a lot of hardships" Zuikaku muttered, earning a sad smile from Sora.
"Yeah, you could say that…" Sora said feeling a tinge of sadness at remembering his friends.
"Sora, this is just a guess but I'm willing to bet that you told the girls over at Azur Lane about the Heartless. Right?" Shoukaku said, wanting to see if her hunch was correct.
"Yes, I did. After they brought me to the island, they welcomed me with open arms and helped me get rested for the day. It was only right I warn them of the lurking danger that the Heartless pose. In return… they told me about the Sirens and the Red Axis" Sora elaborated while looking at the two girls to gauge their reactions.
"I see… must be awkward then. Knowing that factions are willing to side with the enemy" Shoukaku replied, feeling an unknown weight weighing down on her.
"Not really. You'd be surprised what people will do when things start to go from bad to worse. Fight or flight kicks in and people tend to do things that'll surprise you. I have a best friend who sided with the darkness and even wanted to hurt me at one point. But over time he found himself and used the darkness inside of him to not only help me and my friends but to protect us as well" Sora said, remembering the struggles that Riku went through and how the darkness was something that he now had control over.
"Was it difficult for him to control the darkness inside of him?" Zuikaku asked, growing curious about Sora's friend.
"Yeah, it was difficult for him. There were times when he doubted himself to the point that he wouldn't tell me or my other friends about what was going on. But over time, he learned to find a balance between the light and darkness. Walking on a new path that he forged himself. The road to Twilight" Sora explained with a smile and feeling happy about his friend becoming so much stronger.
"…Sora. We've been talking for some time now and you don't seem that threatened by us? Although we haven't exactly threatened you, don't you think that we might just be hearing you out but not believing anything you're saying?" Zuikaku asked, curious as to why Sora was so friendly and chatting with them about things that any normal person would consider crazy.
"It's not that I'm not threatened by you guys. I have no idea how strong the Sakura Empire or the Red Axis truly is. But what I do know from talking with you two is that you're not bad people. You guys are actually worried about Akagi and the newfound threat that is collaborating with Sirens. I've had firsthand experience with bad people and you guys are nowhere near that" Sora explained.
"And that's why you explained to us about the darkness coming from Akagi along with witnessing these Heartless monsters working with the Sirens," Shoukaku said, looking
"Yeah. Plus, you guys were the only ones I could talk to. I don't think that the other girl with the hat would've heard me out" Sora said, chuckling to himself.
"And there was no way Akagi or Kaga would hear me out" Sora added.
Nodding at his words, the two sisters figured they had some time to chat before they would reach their homeland. Besides, although Zuikaku wouldn't admit it, she was enjoying talking with Sora.
Elsewhere in the Sakura Empire, sitting inside a minka with the doors open letting the fresh and calm air inside was a woman with her eyes closed and body not moving.
This woman sleeping was IJN Aircraft Carrier, Shinano. She was a part of the Yamato class along with being a respectable and noteworthy figure in the Sakura Empire. Moreover, she has foxlike features on her which wasn't that out of the normal for the girls of Sakura Empire, but there is one unique characteristic about her. She tends to fall into a slumber quite easily. Nothing worrisome but more along the lines of spiritual.
Within her slumber, Shinano has the ability to see events through her dreams. Whether they are glimpses of the past or future, Shinano would be shown dreams that would show her eventful events that have happened or the possibility of happening. Some dreams could be blissful while other dreams may be tragic. Either way, she was a renowned figure in the Sakura Empire that many people looked to in times of need. Her dream of seeing power was something that many in the Sakura Empire listened to closely.
No matter how absurd or worrisome Shinano's dreams were, everyone paid close attention to the contents that each dream held. Though Shinano did have the tendency of dozing off quite a bit, she still dreamed of various things. Which is what she was doing now. Sleeping away with no one to disturb her. However, her body posture seemed off and almost shaky. Almost as if she was nervous about whatever it was, she was dreaming about.
Within her dream, Shinano was seeing many things revolving around her life and the lives of everyone else in the Sakura Empire. Seeing through the eyes of who she guessed was herself within the dream, Shinano could clearly hear and see everything the dream offered her. The sounds of children laughing and playing with each other. Young and old enjoying themselves and chatting away. The petals from the Sakura trees gently fell to the ground and covered all you could see in various pink colors. A peaceful time.
Shinano could see all her friends or well essentially her family living the best of their lives without any worry. A moment of peace and tranquility that she wished would last forever.
However…
Things would not last.
The area around Shinano began to grow dark and storm clouds appeared out of nowhere with the wind picking up. The sounds of what was just cheerful happiness now turned to screams of malevolence. The Sakura trees began to wilt away and die in a matter of seconds leaving the once beautiful pink tress to become dark and empty. Thunder began to blast the once calm island and lightning streaked across the once peaceful blue sky.
Shinano began to look around her to see if there was anyone else, but she saw no one. Swerving her head left and right and growing anxious, Shinano hoped to see anyone or anything, but all she found was a sight she along with everyone in the world feared.
Sirens.
Countless Siren drones were all making their way toward Shinano. Drifting across the ocean surface with their red ship bodies glowing and weapons pointed at where Shinano was located. Overcome with fear, Shinano tried to get a count of how many Sirens there were but lost count at the sheer number. In the lead were Elite Sirens that she was familiar with both in having an encounter and reading up on. Purifier, Omitter, Compiler, Tester, and Observer. Their eyes glowed bright yellow and a dark mist surrounding them that gave off a dangerous feeling.
Shinano could only do one thing and that was to summon her riggings and prepare for the worst that was to come.
Or so she thought.
Suddenly, everything in front of her began to be consumed in darkness. The Sirens were enveloped by the darkness. The sky was now pitch black. The land she calls home was covered in a blanket of darkness. Everything was being taken over by darkness.
Left alone in a void of nothingness. Shinano could only fear what this dream meant. This wasn't the first dream she had where things looked grim or the message filled with good intentions. The implications that were showcased within this dream were something she was very worried about. It was something that everyone in the Sakura Empire dreaded. The day the Sirens would mark their home as their next target.
Closing her eyes and waiting for whatever else this dream may hold, Shinano prepared herself for the impending doom. However, nothing ever came. Opening her eyes, Shinano noticed that something was shining in the distance. Growing curious about what it may be, she started walking closer to it and could begin to make out what it was.
"What…what is this?"
Upon further inspection, Shinano got close enough to the shining light and realized that there was something on the ground that was causing the area to get brighter. Shinano was confused about what she was seeing.
On the ground was a crown emblem that was glowing in a bright white light.
Getting close to the crown, Shinano felt weird. But… it was a good type of feeling. The best similarity that she could compare it to was that of the feeling of having friends and loved ones next to you.
Family. Love. Happiness. Kindness. Warmth. Inspiration. Hope.
The feeling was so strong that Shinano was beginning to tear up at how hopeful the light was to her. Even being inside a dream, the feeling of the crown's light consuming her was a feeling that she had never experienced before. However, before Shinano could bask in the warm light any longer, the blanket of darkness around her began to be consumed in the light instead of the darkness.
Out of nowhere, a flash of light came out of nowhere causing her to cover her eyes. Once the light died down, she lowered her arm to see what happened and where else this dream would take her. But… she was not prepared for what she saw.
In front of her was a place that took her breath away and made her blink several times to make sure what she was seeing was real. A place that was filled with water as far as the eye could see. Even stranger was that Shinano was standing on top of the water and not sinking into the water. The sky above her was also calm with blue skies and white puffy clouds. This place felt… peaceful.
Shinano continued to look around and see if there was anything noticeable in this tranquil yet empty place. Beginning to walk around, she was becoming more and more confused about what this dream was trying to tell her, but her question would be answered immediately. Suddenly, a flash of blue light appeared in front of her.
There in front of her was a small boy. The boy was looking right at her and smiling sweetly at her. Getting a good look at the young boy, Shinano noticed the boy's characteristics. The boy had brown hair that was spiky in the back while coming down in the front. He was also wearing a white shirt with a blue v collar and red shorts pockets. On his feet were brown sandals with orange straps over his feet.
Shinano was not sure what to think about the boy or why he was here, but she figured he was very important. Before she could do anything else, a mist of darkness appeared several hundred feet behind the young boy making Shinano jump.
"Look out!"
The boy continued to stare at Shinano with a small smile before turning around to look at the dark mist. He just stared at the mist that was slowly making its way towards him and Shinano.
Before she could summon her riggings to protect the young boy, Shinano felt chills running down her body. Her tails and ears began twitching and she felt her heart beating faster. Feeling that something was not right, Shinano was about to make her way to stand in front of the boy when something strange happened.
The boy's body began to fade away into nothingness. But at the same time, the boy's body was reappearing in the same spot. Once the boy completely faded into existence, Shinano took note of his older-looking appearance.
The boy was now wearing a red onesie with a silver zipper and a silver chain hanging around his thigh. He was now wearing a white and black hoodie over his onesie that was unzipped. One striking feature about the boy was his giant yellow boots. There was a crown necklace hanging around his neck that did look slightly interesting. His hair had also drastically changed to be very spiky compared to his younger look.
Once again, the boy continued to smile at Shinano but this time he turned around to look at the dark mist. But the boy still did nothing but observe the dark mist. Shinano was at a loss at what to do. However, the strangest thing was that she heard a voice in her head start saying something but… there was no one really saying anything. It was almost as if someone put those words in her head so that she would think about what was being said.
"So much to do.
So little time…
There are hearts to save…"
You are the key."
Right before Shinano could react to the mysterious set of words being placed in her head, the boy's appearance began to change once again in a flash of blue light.
This time the boy was looking at Shinano but was not in his onesie but wearing a blue and red shirt with a black unzipped hoodie that had yellow and white outlines. The boy's shoulders were also grey with a white outline and looked almost like shoulder guards. The jacket the boy was wearing wasn't a long sleeve and ended at his elbows. His pants were dark with a mix of yellow straps going around his waist and thigh with red pouches and white lines around the pants. His boots now consisted of mainly black but still featured yellow in the boot along with black fingerless gloves with a white x going over the top of his knuckles. The boy still had his crown necklace around his neck.
He looked older now and his hair became even spikier which was surprising to Shinano. The boy continued to look at her while giving her a friendly smile that made her feel…happy. Like the sort of happiness, you feel when something good is coming your way.
However, the boy was once again enveloped in a bright blue light that forced Shinano to cover her eyes. Feeling the light dim down, she lowered her arm and was bewildered by what she saw. How many different outfits was she going to see the boy in?
The boy's outfit changed once more. This time the outfit was more on the simpler side of things. His boots were back to being quite big but mainly yellow with some black. The boy's pants were red with white strips and black at the end near his knees. His hoodie this time was black and grey with some white and his hoodie was red. His shirt was black but with a very large x going across his chest. He had black fingerless gloves with a strange piece over the back of his hand on the glove. And he once again still had his crown necklace.
Shinano was beginning to wonder just how many outfits this boy had and was going to change into. However, before she could ask him, the dark mist was several feet away from the boy and had begun to rise in height. Giving her best judgment, Shinano guessed that the dark mist was growing up to 20 feet tall and still increasing. At this point, the boy turned around to look at the mist and watch it grow.
Having no idea what to do, Shinano was losing time and figured her best option right now would be to grab the boy and run away or at least get some distance from the dark cloud. But before she could run up to the boy, she felt something off about herself. It was almost as if she couldn't move her own body and was frozen in place. She tried moving her legs and arms but to no avail, nothing happened. Worry began to set in and Shinano feared for what may come next.
But…something happened. Even though she was beginning to be overwhelmed and fear filled her heart by not being able to move her body, something inside of her wanted to say something to the boy. At this dire moment, she spoke to the boy and asked him a question she was pondering.
"Aren't…aren't you scared?"
The boy heard her and slowly turned around to face her. His face still had that warm and comforting smile. Suddenly, his body began to glow blue, and his appearance returned to his youngest form. The youngest version of the boy then held up his right arm in front of him and closed it gently while bringing it up to his heart. The boy then closed his eyes and looked to be thinking of something. Shinano was utterly lost at what was going on. But before she could do anything, he opened his eyes and looked at her with the biggest smile he had yet given while nodding his head.
"No. I'm not scared. And neither should you be miss. It's ok. I'll help you"
Hearing his voice for the first time, Shinano was taken back by the youngest version of the boy. Just who was this boy and why was he so important in this dream?
Right before Shinano could respond to the boy, the dark mist began to start swirling in a circle and gaining speed causing water to be splashed and the mist to fade away. However, lifting her head to see the top of the dark mist, Shinano was at a loss for words at what she saw.
Where the top of the dark mist cloud reached now appeared ahead. A head of a dark monster. The creature's head had vines wrapped around its' head that had yellow glowing eyes that were staring right at her and the boy. The body of the creature was completely enveloped in a dark color with the bottom half of its body missing in what appeared to be a heart-shaped cut-out. The creature had long claw-like arms and feet that were bent crooked.
This creature looked to be something out of a nightmare.
However, before Shinano could scream for the boy to run away, he had already turned around to face the creature and even took a step forward staying silent all the while. Fear was now written on Shinano's face as she was now shaking while watching the boy walk up to the creature. Was this what the dream was meant to show her? That darkness would consume everything? Was this boy going to die?
Before she could think of any more questions to ask herself, the boy's body began to glow blue yet again. Only this time the blue color was the brightest it had ever been and now a bright white light exploded onto the scene forcing Shinano to close her eyes while remaining frozen in place.
In front of her now stood a boy, no… a young man.
A young man wearing a mix of black, yellow, and white boots that went up his calf. Black pants that had a red strap going across each thigh with several empty pockets. A dark shirt with a white collar. His crown necklace was around his neck. A black and grey jacket with red outlines and gold buttons. Around the top of the jacket were red and black plaid corners held down by gold buttons. Gauntlets that covered his wrist were mainly grey with red and white, and a yellow strap wrapped around his wrist. These gauntlets replaced his fingerless gloves in his other outfits. The man's hair was also very different compared to his younger counterparts with it still staying spiky but swaying more toward the right.
Shinano was amazed at what she was seeing. The young boy who had appeared in front of her took the form of different ages in his life to now where he stood looking older and mature. She felt all the stress and fear she had been feeling fade away and now hope filled her heart. In addition, Shinano could now move her arms and legs and wobbled around before balancing herself and turning to look at the young man.
This dream was something else.
First is the sequence of a peaceful and enjoyable Sakura Empire. Then the sudden invasion of the Sirens. And now appearing in this place with an endless ocean floor and peaceful skies with the dark creature and this mysterious boy. Shinano had to say that this was the strangest dream she had ever experienced. But the implications that this dream had were very concerning.
Undoubtedly, she would need to ask the boy who he was and at least get his name. However, the area around her suddenly began to fade away. Shinano realized that she was waking up from this dream.
Quickly, she called out to the young man for his name.
"E-excuse me… please. What is your name? Who… who are you?"
The boy turned to look at her still holding onto that warm and confident smile of his only this time he gave her a nod while looking right into her blue eyes.
Blue eyes meeting blue eyes.
In a flash of light, the boy and dark creature were gone leaving Shinano to watch as the water-filled place was fading away. All she could do was close her eyes and…
…
Open her eyes once more.
Shinano slowly opened her eyes and had to blink several times to fully wake up. Her whole body felt groggy, and her head was ringing, but that was nothing more than a nuisance. She fully remembered what transpired in her dream and the significance of each scenario played out for her to see. Reaching for a quill, ink, and paper, she began to write down as much as she could remember. Getting every small detail written down would be the best way to inform her superiors about her dream.
Hearing Shinano wake from her slumber, a girl with a white and purple militarized skirt that went down to her waist and black thigh highs with dark shoes and brown hair entered the room. This girl also had animal characteristic features that resembled a cow.
"Lady Shinano! I see you've awoken from your slumber. I take it… you had an eventful dream?"
Hearing the girl, Shinano perked her head up and gave a reassuring smile to her.
"Ah, Kashino. It's good to see you. And yes… I did have a rather eventful dream. The dream itself was… explanatory in some ways. But… the dream also had a strange conclusion" Shinano said, finishing up with writing all the details she could remember.
"Was… the dream really bad?" Kashino asked, feeling nervous about the answer she might receive.
"…Yes. And no" Shinano responded, putting away the quill and ink.
"Lady Shinano… was it about the Sakura Empire," Kashino asked.
"Yes… it was. And it was also about what the future might hold if we continue to side with them" Shinano said while straightening her white skirt.
"I-I see… but you also said that it wasn't a bad dream?" Kashino said, grabbing her arm and looking worried.
"Correct. In my dream, I was shown several things. The first… was a symbol of a crown that was emitting a beautiful light that rid of the darkness, and the second was a mysterious place. A place that I've never seen before. It was beautiful, Kashino. A place with nothing but calm water and peaceful skies. It was different than being at sea. In this place, there was nothing to worry about at all. I wish there was a way for you to see it in person. But… it was there that I encountered a young boy" Shinano explained.
"A young boy?" Kashino asked, growing confused.
"Yes. The boy was young but what was strange was that the boy was changing his age" Shinano said.
"Huh? Lady Shinano, did you just say that the boy was changing his age?" Kashino asked, looking beyond confused.
"Correct… The boy was young at first but then an older version of himself appeared. And from there on, different versions of the boy appeared in flashes of blue light. Until the boy stopped changing ages and stayed in an older and more mature version of himself" Shinano said, remembering all the boy's appearances.
"When you say his older version, about how old do you mean?" Kashino asked, worried about why a young boy was appearing in Shinano's dream.
"I… I'm not sure. But he looked to be in his late teens. His appearance was that of a young man. Maybe 17 or 18 or even 20. Either way, this mysterious boy appeared in the place with water. But… while we were there, a strange dark mist appeared and was making its way toward us. Once it was close enough, the dark mist unveiled a large dark creature that was unlike anything I've ever known" Shinano explained.
"…" Kashino remained silent and was growing anxious.
"However, the boy in his oldest appearance… told me that he wasn't scared of the monster and that he'll help me. But after that, that's where the dream ended. Leaving me with more questions than answers" Shinano said, looking down at the paper that contained everything she could remember about her dream.
"I see… it sounds like you experienced quite a lot in your dream, Lady Shinano," Kashino said, giving Shinano a small smile of reassurance.
"Yes, the dream is something I will be pondering over for quite some time. However, please tell me… has anything happened while I have been slumbering?" Shinano asked.
"Ah! Why yes! Something did happen. Lady Akagi and Lady Kaga along with Zuikaku and Shoukaku are making their way back from their mission. Lady Kaga radioed in to inform us of what transpired in their attack against Azur Lane. Moreover, Kaga said that they had managed to take a prisoner who willingly offered themselves to protect their friends at Azur Lane" Kashino reported while looking energetic.
"My, it seems unexpected things are happening all around us. Kashino how has everyone else been taking the news of Akagi and Kaga and the crane's return?" Shinano asked.
"Everyone is excited and curious about who was taken as a prisoner. From what I overhead from Suzutsuki and Kumano, a bunch of the girls will be waiting at the shipyard for their return. Along with seeing who the prisoner is" Kashino said while her turn was wagging back and forth excitedly.
"Hmm… well then, let me get this recording documented in my dream archive and then why don't we step outside and go for a walk while waiting for Akagi and the others to return? Sound like a plan?" Shinano asked.
Despite asking to see who Akagi and the others returned with, deep down Shinano disliked the idea that everyone became excited at the idea that someone from Azur Lane was taken, prisoner. She did not agree with the Sakura Empire leaving Azur Lane and siding with the Iron Blood who were also cooperating with the Sirens. There were many girls from each faction that she was friends with back when the Sakura Empire was with Azur Lane, and to see that those friendships were destroyed or lost due to the separation and constant bickering of war. It made Shinano not only sad but opposed to fighting with Azur Lane.
However, for now, she would go down to the shipyard and see who was taken prisoner and see if she can make sure they were treated with care while being held captive.
"O-of course! That would be wonderful. It's also a beautiful day to go for a walk and I'm sure everyone would be delighted to see you" Kashino said, looking cheerful at getting Shinano out of the house.
Nodding to Kashino, Shinano began to put away the dream-filled paper but not before looking out at one of her doors that was open and had a view of the ocean. The calm blue water was there in front of her, but it wasn't the calm and peaceful water she experienced in her dream. Letting out a sigh, Shinano realized that she never really did solve one mystery that her dream presented her with. The name of that mysterious boy.
Inside Akagi's ship down in the brig.
Sora was sitting on the bench still chatting away with Zuikaku and Shoukaku about random topics regarding the Sakura Empire.
"So, wait, does everyone in the Sakura Empire have animal-like characteristics?" Sora asked, with a hand under his chin in a thinking pose.
"I wouldn't say, everyone. But a good majority of the girls do have some type of animal feature. Whether it be bunny ears or cat ears or even dog ears. And then there are girls with tails from different animals" Zuikaku replied, counting on her hand.
"I see… that's really cool. With the girls that have animal ears, are they able to hear better than a normal human or do they only hear from their human ears?" Sora asked, looking confused.
"I…uh, Zuikaku. Do you know the answer?" Shoukaku said, becoming totally lost at the question and even feeling a headache coming on.
"Well, let's see… if a girl has dog ears can they hear better than normal girls… I… I don't know. I've never thought about this… I'll have to ask Takao about this" Zuikaku replied while looking completely lost at the question and dazed.
"Err, that's alright. We can solve that later. But wait, does that mean you guys don't have animal features?" Sora questioned.
"That's right. Zuikaku and I don't have any animal characteristics. But we're known as the Crane Sisters!" Shoukaku said excitedly.
"The Crane Sisters? I like it! Not only does it imply that you guys are graceful and elegant but that you're both beautiful and great fighters. I haven't fought against you yet Shoukaku but from fighting against Zuikaku, I'm sure you have similar battle techniques" Sora said with a friendly smile.
However, the two cranes were both blushing messes. Or better yet Zuikaku was. Shoukaku's face had donned a pink blush while she began giggling and waving her kimono around. Zuikaku on the other hand was a stuttering mess. Her entire face matched the redness of her skirt, and her mouth was agape trying to say something, but the words just wouldn't come out. Seeing Zuikaku's face, Sora was worried that he said something wrong.
"Hey, Zuikaku, are you, ok? Did I say something to upset you?" Sora asked, confused about why she didn't look alright.
"Oh my, Sora, I didn't know you had a way with words!" Shoukaku said with a giant grin on her face.
"Huh? I was just saying what I thought about you two. I'm sure each one of you has different strengths and weaknesses. There are probably some things Shoukaku is better at than Zuikaku and vice versa. It's good to be different. It shows you are your own person" Sora said with truth and sincerity.
Zuikaku was now broken.
Always being compared to her older sister as well as thinking of herself as inferior. It was a characteristic fault of hers that she thought this way, but hearing Sora say that she was elegant and graceful along with beautiful and a respectable fighter. That was the kicker that launched her into a stuttering mess and made her look as red as a cherry. Shaking her head back and forth causing her ponytail to go flying, Zuikaku took a deep breath and tried composing herself. With much luck, she was able to cool off and think straight. Turning to look at Sora, she was met with him looking back but not being phased about what he said to her.
That just caused her to go back to being a cherry.
Before Zuikaku could break down, even more, Shoukaku drew everyone's attention.
"I must say, Sora, I think you've broken my adorable sister!" Shoukaku said covering her face with her kimono.
"I…Uhm…I'm sorry?" Sora said reluctantly.
"Oh! Don't be. I'm happy about what you said regarding us. But I think Zuikaku is over the moon. Hahaha!" Shoukaku replied while giggling.
"Haha. Well, let's hope she doesn't stay broken for long. By the way, Shoukaku, how did you guys get the nickname Crane Sisters?" Sora asked.
"Oh, it's quite the tale. You see…" Shoukaku said before being cut off by her radio in her kimono.
"Shoukaku. We are nearing the homeland. Prepare the prisoner for transfer"
Reaching into her kimono, Shoukaku replied, "Understood, Kaga. We'll have him ready". Shoukaku then checked to make sure the radio was not transmitting any longer and put it away.
Realizing that he was about to be entering the Sakura Empire's headquarters, Sora was excited. Getting to explore a new place was something he enjoyed very much, especially while visiting new worlds. However, this time he would be a prisoner. Before thinking about anything else, Zuikaku seemed to snap out of her broken state and coughed into her hand before opening the brig door. Looks like Zuikaku is back to being self.
"It shouldn't be that long till we dock into the shipyard. Sora, if you would, please stand up" Zuikaku said but compared to when he first arrived on the ship, she sounded different. But a good kind of different.
"Ok, and about what we've talked about… I'm not sure how you both really feel about it all. It's honestly quite a lot to process, but if you want to spend some time thinking about it, I don't blame you. But until I can find a way to a way to speak with your faction leader, I'm not sure if spreading the news around would be the best method. I mean, I'm sure you guys would only tell your close friends or at least people you know could keep an open mind. However,… if someone heard about the Heartless and Akagi being corrupted by darkness, then I'm worried that they would be open for darkness to latch onto" Sora explained while having a concerned look.
"That's understandable, Sora. Honestly, it is quite a lot of information we've talked about. Regarding Akagi, Zuikaku and I have already mentioned this to several of our close friends. They've also been considering what next steps should be taken" Shoukaku said, recalling the talk with Takao and the others.
"Sora, if it's alright with you since it's your account on the Heartless. I'd like to stay silent on the situation. At least until you've spoken with Lady Nagato which is most likely a guarantee since it's protocol to inform headquarters about a prisoner on board. That way it… it gives us more time to process everything you told us" Zuikaku explained.
"Besides, after your interrogation with Lady Nagato, I'm sure there are going to be girls who hear what you have to say and will be conflicted about it all. At that point, sis and I will be able to pull them to the side and slowly catch them up to speed about the darkness and the Heartless" Zuikaku explained.
Processing everything Zuikaku said, Sora agreed that her way of thinking could work to steadily inform those in power about the impending darkness and the threat the Heartless posed. Moreover, he'll need all the help he could get and Zuikaku and Shoukaku were his best bet.
"Alright, that sounds like a good plan, Zuikaku. Just make sure you don't overwhelm whoever you're talking with about the darkness. One slip up and we could be dealing with Heartless spawning all over the place" Sora said.
"Understood. We'll do our best to make sure everything is good" Zuikaku replied.
"Don't worry, Sora. With Zuikaku and I, we're bound to get the situation under control!" Shoukaku said, pumping her fist in the air.
Before Sora could respond, Kaga's voice came out of the radio.
"Shoukaku. Zuikaku. We've arrived. Take the prisoner to the deck. We'll be docking in a few minutes" Kaga said.
Pulling her radio out, Shoukaku replied, "Got it. Making our way up". She then turned the radio off completely and stashed it away into her kimono.
"Well, Sora, ready to get going?" Zuikaku asked, now looking at him in a new light. Spending time with him and talking about both random and important things was something Zuikaku didn't realize until now that she enjoyed it. In fact, she enjoyed being around Sora quite a lot. When she wasn't acting like a stuttering cherry.
"Yeah, let's get going. Let's hope nothing goes completely wrong and I find a way to get this Lady Nagato to listen to me" Sora said.
Stepping out of the cell, Sora followed Zuikaku with Shoukaku on his six making their way to the deck of the ship where Akagi and Kaga would most likely be. However, after walking for a few seconds something clicked inside Sora's head. Something nerve-racking and quite worrisome that he'll have to deal with soon.
Seeing Sora looking all nervous, Shoukaku called out to him, "Hey, Sora, what's wrong?"
"Uhm…since Akagi or Kaga probably notified your superiors and your headquarters… does that mean that everyone is going to be waiting for us?" Sora asked.
Wide-eyed, the two cranes realized just how much trouble Sora was going to be in. Many girls from Sakura Empire will be seeing a boy for the first time in their lives. Since there were only a select few that had actual discussions with the Sakura Empire naval superiors who were men back on the mainland, the girls will most likely go crazy and barrage him nonstop. Just like he was surrounded back at Azur Lane.
Realizing that this was his fate, Sora lowered his head and let out a sigh. If Riku could see him now, he'd probably be laughing to the point of falling out of his chair. And criticizing him for being able to save the worlds not only one but three times.
"Oh, man…" Sora said, feeling the sensation of being defeated.
Making their way to the deck of the ship, Akagi and Kaga were standing on the edge of the deck. Noticing the Crane Sisters and Sora, Kaga walked up to them.
"Once we've docked, you'll be escorted by me to meet our leader. She'll be the one to decide your fate" Kaga said with a harsh tone of voice.
Deciding to keep to himself, for now, Sora just nodded. Kaga on the other hand was still glaring holes into Sora for what happened earlier. In her eyes, Sora was a perverted leach that was staring at her sister very observantly. If it were up to her, he would be thrown straight into the prison and locked away.
Akagi meanwhile was focused on something else entirely. The prospect that Sora might just be the person who the Sirens are interested in. There were too many coincidences that fit the memo. First, the information regarding the significance of the crown and key that the Sirens talked about. And now, Sora's weapon while being odd was definitely a key. Plus, the boy was a total mystery in that he seemed to appear out of nowhere. Along with his strange powers. No normal human would've been able to fight against Kaga the way he did.
Nevertheless, once Lady Nagato meets him and prods him with questions, then she'll learn more about the mysterious boy and how he plays into the Sirens' plans.
Sora, however, was growing more and more nervous as the ship came to a stop. Now, only a few hundred feet away from stepping onto Sakura Empire land, he knew that there would be many girls waiting to inspect him. This was something that he would never get used to. The idea that there could be islands full of nothing but girls and not just regular girls. Really beautiful girls that not only looked elegant but girls that could probably be dangerous. Perhaps being surrounded by dangerous girls was the universe's way of slapping Sora on the wrist, given that he did commit a nature taboo.
To answer Sora's question, Akagi and Kaga began to push him down a ramp that led onto the dock which was connected to the shipyard's bay. Upon looking down onto the dock, Sora held his breath and knew he was in trouble.
The screams of countless girls were heard.