Chapter 79: Renewal (EPILOGUE)
"Of all the varied and odd habits that our numerous kin have adopted over the past weeks yours is by far the least inspiring. What manner of example do you set for all by sitting and moping for days on end?"
"They have no need for guidance, our fellows are more than capable of setting their own new directives."
"And how grand their new beginning is, with their superior seized by melancholy upon completion of our long vigil."
Empress gave Zero a brief sneer as the Observer casually seated herself next to where the Neo Siren kept watch over a large display of the planet, the newly arrived Siren meeting the expression with perfect calm before Empress turned away, irritation fading as quickly as it came as she idly stared at the command console she had interacted with not more than a few days prior.
A console that had shut down the sphere of reality warping that had kept Earth sealed off from the rest of the universe for countless iterations, the small blue planet once more moving in tandem with the distant cosmos around it, free from both its prison and armor.
…She doubted anyone other than herself and a few command level Neo Sirens had noticed the change, the removal of the field so utterly anticlimactic and without ceremony - despite its import - that she couldn't help but sullenly compare it to her current circumstances.
A massively impactful and world-changing force, quietly and efficiently pushed aside the moment its task was completed with hardly anyone the wiser.
"What would you have me do? Stand before them and grandly exposit the completion of our task? We are not Humans."
Zero lazily brought up a collection of aerial images or POVs, Empress feeling her once placid mood turn even more sour than it had already become.
Many of their kind had scattered about the world, pursuing whatever inane hobbies or tasks they deemed worthy of their attention. Observer Alpha had retreated to that secluded island of hers, the native Humans regarding her as some sort of strange spirit or god that occasionally helped them with various tasks but mostly just kept to herself, watching nature or their community without judgment or comment. Empress knew the Neo Siren had long wanted to simply 'observe' something inconsequential in order to offset the innumerable realities of great importance she had been tasked with but it just seemed so…demeaning in scope and import.
Purifier and the rest of her lower ranked kin had gone in the opposite direction, fully integrating themselves into Humanity by offering their services to the reformed Azur Lane. A simple complexion change, a few false backstories about how they were a brand of Shipgirls different from the current batch and they had been 'shown' to be very well versed in Old Siren tactics, acting as instructors and similar titles for the bevy of soldiers that would soon be swelling the ranks of the organization.
And when the Old Sirens once more returned? They would be among some of the first into battle, no doubt gleeful beyond belief.
Compiler and her subordinate units had also adapted surprisingly well, focusing on safely and securely integrating their own extensive records into the freshly established servers dotting the new Azur Lane, some of their ilk even adopting disguises and other forms of concealment before devoting much of their time and energy to exploring a number of libraries or historical sites on a seeming whim.
Them and so many others had left without so much as a backwards glance, leaving Empress essentially alone within their nexus, an Arbiter with no personalities to preside over.
"No, we are not Humans. But having had time to consider our circumstances over the many, many years we have tested them I feel quite confident in stating that the Creator intended for us to emulate a great many of their tendencies, for better or for worse."
She gestured to one of the screens where Purifier had apparently badgered Aegir into a drinking competition, a small crowd of newly arrived personnel surrounding and cheering them on as the pair downed beverage after beverage.
"So why lock yourself away into a cage of purpose when no master demands it of you?"
Empress turned her gaze towards the globe, considering her words and not particularly liking any answer she could provide.
"Because then what remains? Do we just forget all that was? Do we forget what The Creator intended for us? I fear this newfound 'freedom' will make of us something that was not meant to be, something he did not desire of us."
"What I hear is that you fear the vastness of being able to chart your own course. That in giving up your previous authority you will be a worthless and pointless creature that cannot decide what to do with itself."
Empress yet again felt a surge of anger before locking it away behind a wall of serene calm…or attempted to, her left hand shaking as it tightly clutched her throne.
"How easy it is for you to speak of abdication, when your task has succeeded beyond all estimates."
"And yours has not? Unless we are using different metrics of success this world has definitively proven that it is capable of defeating the Old Sirens, surpassing all estimates of their capability."
She had no easy answer to that, instead watching as an aircraft ascended into the sky, releasing a rocket into low Earth orbit as it gently matched Oratorio's path through the sky, a small number of drones gathering the scant but crucial amount of materials necessary to keep the station working until a more comprehensive mission could be launched.
"And just what, in your vaunted wisdom, would you have me do?"
"Work alongside Alexander, for starters."
Empress sent her companion an unamused glare that was returned with stoic seriousness.
"You possess great skill and experience in being an arbitrator, make use of that skill. The revived Shipgirls have already surpassed a hundred in number and they will be nothing if not a riot of conflicting personas, never mind the birthing pangs of a new world government."
Zero affixed Empress with a pointed expression.
"You wish to retain your position and remind us of our place and ultimate purpose? Then embody that ideal and do not waste away in an empty castle."
The Neo Siren didn't immediately reply, instead letting her eyes dully gaze over the display without actually seeing anything.
"...What purpose do I still hold in a world that is already moving ahead?"
She suddenly remembered the feeling of their crowning achievement's heart as it powerfully beat under her palm, his conviction despite his fear and reticence at everything that had happened to him as she stared at her hand, frown becoming more contemplative than irritated.
"Perhaps answers lie elsewhere."
"So? How do I look?"
"Quite dashing, Master. Would you like a wastebasket attached to your hip just in case?"
"I want to be mad at that sass, but unfortunately there's been pretty convincing evidence in the past that I could use it."
Staring at himself in the mirror Alexander reflected that he cut a pretty dashing figure, finally having achieved a measure of both practicality, comfort and authority that didn't consist of an overly designed and fancy monkey suit. White slacks and dress shoes were a holdover from the previous attire he'd been saddled with a far more breathable white button down with light blue jacket laced with a gold trimmed anchor - to signify his position of authority - being a welcome change to the fancy straight jacket he'd suffered through previously. A simple peaked white cap rounded out the ensemble and quite frankly he was pleased with it all.
"Well done, Belfast. Your eye for detail and immaculate sense of fashion - despite the fact that I've only ever seen you wear one uniform - has won the day yet again."
"Flattery will get you nowhere, Master."
"Seems to have gotten me all sorts of places, if I'm being honest."
Playfully swatting him on the arm Belfast promptly clapped her hands, boldly announcing, "Ladies? Are you finished?"
"Yes, Head Maid!"
Glancing around the changing room Alexander was treated to a variety of hustle and bustle being carried out by the various maids and their target Shipgirls, Hermione, Charybdis and Scylla finishing up their work on Leonardo da Vinci and Soobrazitelny, the latter squirming as she complained, "Why do we need all this ridiculous fancy clothing, we're doing an open bar technology display!"
"Because appearances can matter just as much as what is being put on display, Miss Soobrazitelny. Now please hold still, the event is about to begin and I don't want your hair to become a haggard mess."
"Ugh, fine…"
The Parliament Destroyer sullenly subsided, Leonardo spinning on her heel as her twintails flew in an elegant arc, the Sardegna Submarine cheerfully remarking, "I fail to see why you complain so much, sister. These uniforms are both elegant, stylish and easy to move around in~! You did an excellent job, Hermione!"
"Thank you for the compliments, Miss Leonardo."
Soobra merely sulked as she pulled at her jacket.
"They're just gonna get dirty."
The Aloadae resisted the urge to chuckle as he and Belfast shared knowing looks, Alexander of the opinion that the Shipgirls looked quite fetching. To showcase a firm solidarity they'd all adorned a variety of uniforms, the Shipgirls of his particular branch of the upcoming expo wearing knee-length dresses of red, black or white with lace up boots and elegant but hardy jackets. And striding up towards them was the flagship example of that very concept, Bismarck herself as Janus followed in her wake, appearing distinctly nervous as the timid maid asked, "D-does Lady Bismarck look acceptable, Head Maid?"
"More than acceptable, but that's just my take on things."
Belfast rolled her eyes, nonetheless agreeing with, "Excellently done, Janus. I dare say our flagship Ironblood looks even more gallant than usual."
The blue-haired maid beamed at the compliments, Bismarck herself losing some of her perpetually melancholic air as she slightly inclined her head, politely stating, "Your compliments are appreciated, Herr Kommondant."
Yet another furtive glance was exchanged between Alexander and Belfast, the Aloadae withstanding the desire to sigh.
While he should have realized this the moment Laffey came back with all of her memory until death intact it hadn't really sunken in until after he'd begun bringing home dozens upon dozens of Shipgirls that many of them would hold some…regrets about the scenarios in which they'd perished, Bismarck being one of the primary offenders in that regard.
While he hadn't yet gleaned most of the details - seeing as he'd been kind of fucking busy - he'd gotten enough context to know that the Ironblood Battleship had cut a few deals with the Sirens before inevitably realizing how bad of an idea that was after a fair bit of shit had gone sideways. No doubt the woman attributed much of what followed afterwards to her own fault, especially since she had perished just a few years into the war.
The news that The Commander had died just made the whole situation that much more of a bitter pill to swallow, especially for Shipgirls that had sunk later into the war, after the man had fought both the Sirens and the rest of Humanity tooth and nail to give them the support they needed.
…It wasn't all doom and gloom, thankfully. A fair amount of the Shipgirls, Soobra and Leonardo being such examples, had adapted to vastly different circumstances with remarkable grace and quickly taken to their new responsibilities after only a few days of downtime and adjustment.
"Probably helps that the mental web we share is becoming more and more comprehensive for each new mind that joins it."
It was one thing to be sad and depressed, it was another entirely to feel that way even when hundreds of others could share their own perspective at the drop of a hat.
He would know.
"Alright, we're on in thirty, everyone all set?"
Essex popped in from an adjoining makeup room where Charybdis had finished her work, the Carrier asking, "Shouldn't Akashi be here for something like this? She's nothing if-"
"A bit psychopathic and would absolutely try to pawn off some of this stuff or oversell its capabilities. Don't worry, she's keeping plenty busy elsewhere for the moment."
Belfast gave the Aloadae a pointed look that he shrugged off, the maid pointing out, "She'll be demanding no shortage of compensation."
"She'll get it, but I'd rather not have our first tech fair end in a nuclear explosion or financial collapse. And I wish I was joking. You three read the manuals and everything? Sorry, I know it's a lot to take in-"
"Ready to go, Signore~!"
"And just who do you take us for, Comrade?"
Bismarck was more restrained in her comment but nonetheless firmly replied, "We are more than prepared for the task ahead of us, Kommandant. It is the least we can do in order to make up for lost time."
Silently wishing that Bismarck could - and he wasn't the only who was surprised to say this - take after Tirpitz in being less hard on herself he settled for a nod, intending to pull aside the Ironblood flagship first chance he got.
"Alright, then it's showtime. No grandiose speeches needed, thankfully."
Belfast clapped her hands, the maids quickly forming up as the Cruiser announced, "Current task complete, ladies. Onwards to Her Majesty's chambers, we have no shortage of tasks to see to."
"Yes, Head Maid!"
With a swish of skirts, clack of heels and only mild stumble from Janus courtesy of a stray bit of cloth the troupe departed, Leonardo stroking her chin as she mused, "So do you think the rumors are true that each and every prospective member of the Maid Corps has to undergo a months long boot camp session before they can join?"
"I wouldn't discard such a notion, those maids sometimes rival the Kriegsmarine in military efficiency…"
Deciding to remain quiet in the face of Bismarck's comment - he'd met Alice and that one encounter with the Human branch of the Maid Corps had made of him a believer - he instead lead the way to their station, marching through the tunnels of the base so as to avoid the crowds overhead and the various festivities associated, lips twisting into an unapologetic smile as he heard the pounding of music, Saratoga and Lexington hosting a concert as he reflected that this time he would likely be able to get a proper autograph from them.
"Aww, I wanted to present the robotics!"
"Ugh, we've talked about this, okay?! We'll switch at noon after lunch, so stop giving me that look, okay?"
"Girls, we're supposed to be presenting our offerings and research to the public, not jockeying for our favorite tasks…"
Letting Essex try to calm the familiar debate the Aloadae instead hung back to walk beside Bismarck, the Battleship immediately straightening her spine as she softly asked, "Is there something you require of me, Kommandant?"
"I'd like for you to at least try to take it a bit easy on yourself, if only for this expo. We're not trying to sell weapons of war but ones of renewal."
Briefly stiffening the Ironblood was quick to reply, "Rest assured, I will not let personal hangups mar this event."
Deciding to cheat a little bit he selectively allowed just a bit of concern from Tirpitz and Hood towards her wellbeing to leak through the mental bridge they all shared, Bismarck only revealing the briefest of winces before giving him an unimpressed glare that he shrugged at.
Bringing Hood into the equation was just an extra helping of sour grapes.
"Probably for the best I don't reveal that was more of a general worry for her state of being than it was anything specific."
"Your sisters and friend seem to share my opinion."
"...It's not so simple as to just forget everything that was done in the past. Or to look beyond critical failures in both judgment and morality."
"Well, I'm not about to tell you to just move past it all since it didn't really work that way for me but what I can say is that it helped to let other people look out for you."
The Ironblood hesitated for a moment before lightly nodding, shoulder's containing just the slightest less tension than before as they arrived at their destination, climbing up a set of stairs as a side door opened up, revealing I-13 as the Sub eagerly waved them in, exclaiming, "Come on, come on! Everything starts in thirty minutes and I've got your booths all set up!"
"Easy does it, crazy. We've still got time to-aaaaaand she's gone."
Leonardo and Soobrazitelny were pulled along by the Sub as she brought them to their stations, Essex looking on with clear amusement as even Bismarck cracked a rare smile, Alexander rolling his neck as he announced, "All right, let's get this thing started. We've got a lot of people to sell on tricks they've likely never even heard of."
"Right away, Alexander."
"I won't fail you, Kommandant."
While Essex cheerfully waved Bismarck sent a sharp salute his way, turning on her heel and striding towards her booth as the Aloadae sighed, Essex patting him on the shoulder as she said, "Don't worry about it, she'll pull through along with everybody else. It's just a nasty shock, to come back to an already ended war where others paid the perceived price."
"War's not technically over."
A playful swat on the arm was the Carrier's reply as he smirked, striding towards his own assignment before nodding in satisfaction at I-13's zeal. All of the parts, papers and other materials needed for a successful expo had been laid out for his review and at a glance he doubted he was going to find anything that needed improving on.
While the 'grand opening' of Azur Lane was technically a military affair as the majority of personnel arrived for their assignments and training it had been decided that the purpose of the organization moving forward had to be more than just a military-oriented power, thus they were holding what was essentially a technology fair and carnival for people ranging from VIPs and government officials to the families of those that had volunteered for the force, the large building they were in stocked to the brim with eye-catching displays and marvels of technology ranging from highly advanced radios that could reach around the globe with zero delay, orbital satellites that could count the number of people in a parking lot to the station he was in charge of, a variety of infrastructure improvements that would ease the burden of rebuilding in the wake of the Siren war, the centerpiece being a scaled down but fully functional ocean water purifier.
While not a new technology or scientific field in the strictest sense removing salt from ocean water in order to make it drinkable had long been an unattainable goal, since the methods for doing so were inefficient or a complete overkill in terms of allocated resources.
Not so any longer, the device in front of him capable of actually being efficient in performing that task along with a bevy of hydroponics and soil enrichment machines.
It was nice to be able to showcase something other than a tool that was good at blowing shit up, or helped facilitate the blowing up of shit.
Mood invigorated by the chance to do something other than fight and get his ass kicked for a change the minutes flew by, eventually culminating in a few staff unlocking the doors and allowing a veritable flood of people to pile in, ranging from adults with numerous qualifications under their belts to children with starry eyes, gazing up in wide wonder at the marvels on display.
"I think I could get used to this part of the job."
"Preparations are set and we're ready to begin the event as soon as the clock stikes three, Your Majesty."
"Excellently done, Belfast. And the same goes for all of you, your performance has been exemplary despite the haphazard and chaotic nature of your return to my side."
"You honor us, Your Majesty."
"Ahh, it has been far too long since we've had an ample opportunity to merely sit and enjoy the benefits of a nice, simple tea party, has it not?"
"Not so simple, Illustrious. We've been absent from the war for far too long and have a great many tasks ahead of us, including brushing shoulders with those that might have ascended the ranks in the interim since our demise."
"Oh must you always be such a bore, George?"
"Now now, you two. You have only been returned to us for a mere week and certainly aren't about to get into simple spats in front of Her Majesty, are you?"
Elizabeth leaned back in her throne, trying to hide the smile that threatened to break past her imperial visage at the nostalgic warmth that accompanied her dear subjects having once more returned to the fold. Belfast and her maids bustling about, carrying out her will and serving excellent refreshments as Hood, George and Illustrious playfully snipped and jibed at each other as Warspite faithfully stood at her side, this long desired reunion promising of greater things to come.
While Alexander had done his best to bring as many of their sisters back as he physically could the process was taxing in the extreme and he'd wanted to focus on the Shipgirls that their current roster had strong memories of before working his way down the still expansive list, the event providing them the perfect excuse to force the Aloadae to take a small break in his crusade of resurrection.
"Your Majesty? Are you present?"
"Eh? Repeat yourself, Head Maid."
Belfast smiled a familiar and wicked smile, innocently remarking, "I was merely inquiring when you wished to begin plans for your upcoming betrothal, now that the Royal Navy will once again be large enough to need a King and Queen."
One could hear a pin drop in the ensuing silence, Elizabeth caught in a logic loop at the Head Maid's inquiry as heat gathered in her cheeks, an embarrassment made only worse by the stunned and gobsmacked expressions from her other subjects as they stared at her.
"Y-Your Majesty? Is this…true?"
Illustrious abruptly clapped her hands, a beaming expression on her features as Hood was quick to join in the festive atmosphere while the Carrier chirped, "Oh how lovely, Your Majesty~! Do tell, who is the lucky man that caught your eye?"
"Indeed, if he is to be our King then he must be a magnificent man of incomparable quality!"
Fuel was only added to the fire as Belfast idly added, "He is quite a sight to behold, although we should perhaps prepare a smaller and more intimate ceremony for Lady Warspite, as she will be sharing with Her Majesty."
If the first silence had been profound this one was deafening, broken only by a mortified squeak escaping from Warspite's throat, the clamor this time becoming truly chaotic as Scylla and Hermione had stars dancing in their eyes, minds no doubt running a mile a minute at the prospect of overseeing the many ceremonies that would be a result of this apparent marriage, Janus trying to shout out her congratulations as through it all Elizabeth heard Illustrious excitedly proclaim, "Your Majesty, is it Mister Curtis you and Lady Warspite have taken in as your Husband to be~?!"
The monarch sank into her throne, trying to appear as small as possible while giving the Head Maid a pointed glare…all as she fought back happy tears at having her court once more filled with gossip, laughter and protests.
"Akagi, while I do not demand that you act as if everything has turned out for the better with no consequences to be found this aura of permanent melancholy does not befit you."
"And who are you to absolve me of my failures, if in the same breath you do not demand anything of me?"
Nagato resisted the urge to sigh, quietly motioning for her fellow sisters to not chastise the sullen Carrier for her borderline hostile words and instead affixed her subordinate with the least judgemental expression she could muster.
"Someone who lived through the times you so lament. What few who continued to blame you even after your sinking were soundly ignored, the hatred and punishment you seem so desperate to believe is real simply does not exist."
"The one who would absolve me of this purported 'hatred and punishment' no longer exists, Nagato-sama."
The Sakura Battleship resisted the urge to sigh, instead meeting her recently revived comrade's gazes with a reassuring smile. Musashi, Hiei, Mutsu, Shinano, Amagi, Kawakaze and Ayanami all seemed at a loss as to how to reassure their normally unflappable and composed comrade and it was bringing down what was an otherwise festive mood, considering the circumstances.
"Perhaps I should have asked I-25, 26 and 13 to attend as well. They would help lighten the air."
But it was ultimately her responsibility as flagship to ensure her own were cared for, Nagato trying to think of what would have left Akagi of all people so sullen and defeated.
Kaga would be brought back soon, Amagi was in good health and the war had entered a highly advantageous phase for them…and Nagato knew she was simply avoiding the main and obvious cause, The Commander's death.
While she had often considered Akagi's obsessive and possessive behavior towards the man to just be one of her fits of fancy or a way to earn his favor towards their faction the Carrier's current mood suggested otherwise, Nagato beginning to wonder if that had just been her way of showing genuine attachment.
It would certainly make sense with the benefit of hindsight, seeing as how the man had been one of the few who had consistently gone to bat for her despite her actions leading up to the Orochi incident and the fallout of that debacle afterwards.
"So how do I go about fixing a completely understandable and not easy to repair state of mind?"
After she thought about it for a moment, the answer seemed readily obvious. After all, for all that he had been saved Nagato reflected that Alexander had done a rather superb job in ensuring that all of them had been as best cared for as he could manage during extraordinarily trying circumstances. He would do the same for Akagi.
"Although I don't cherish the idea of potentially sharing his time with my troublesome subordinate when it will already be difficult enough to do so as is…alas, the things I do to care for my own."
"It is true, The Commander is no longer among us…but his successor is. My command to you is this, Akagi. Go and serve him to the best of your capabilities. It is my hope that you will find absolution through service to the office you once revered."
"Is that a command, Nagato-sama?"
"It is."
"...I see. May I be excused?"
"Of course. This is to be a day of celebration, spend it how you see fit. Preferably by not making yourself miserable."
The Carrier merely inclined her head before slowly picking herself up and vanishing into the island revelry, Musashi releasing a small sigh as she cupped her cheek with one hand, remarking, "Of all the various difficulties I would have expected to assail our Empire with so many of our kin returning, a defeated and numb Akagi was not one of them."
"Agreed. But speaking and working under Alexander will do more for her spirits than any other task could."
"Ooh, you seem really confident in his abilities, big sister~! Is he special to you?"
Mutsu's innocent question caused Nagato to briefly cough, years of absence causing her to forget her sister's selective perceptiveness and instead rapidly switched topics, clapping her hands before announcing, "There are more interesting topics to be addressed on this wonderful day, sisters. Go, enjoy yourselves! Today is one of revelry and reunion, do not waste it!"
The bevy of expressions sent her way let the Battleship know her deflection had been extremely transparent but no one was in a hurry to bring her grief over it, filing out to pursue their interests until it was just her, Kawakaze and Mutsu, the latter childishly grinning as she chirped, "So what are you trying to hide, big sis? Hmmmmm~?"
A shared glance between Nagato and Kawakaze had the white fox not bothering to hide her small smile as she pretended to be on guard duty, the older Battleship sighing as she was faced with her sibling's unflagging and hyper curious attention.
…She hadn't realized how much she had missed it until she felt warmth gather in her eyes, threatening to break free if she allowed.
For today, she did.
"Well that's…an unconventional display?"
"I dare say ridiculous, but then again no asked for my opinion."
"Bah, all of you are being such bores, why not enjoy the show that our darling little sisters put on for everybody?"
Hipper frowned at Eugen, pointedly remarking, "Because this…theater production seems a bit beneath our station, obviously."
"More of an action thriller, if the brochure is to be believed."
Enterprise once more scanned over the provided paper, Sovetskaya sighing in defeat as she resigned herself to the fact that they were about to be treated to a truly hedonistic display of destruction and unfettered creativity. The four of them hadn't had any duties for a few hours and had been asked - guilted, really - by the Submarines to attend their brainchild display to the public.
…Considering the roster had included I-13, 19, 25, 26, U-96, U-81, U-552, Albacore, Cavalla and Leonardo da Vinci - even if the latter couldn't attend - the Parliament Shipgirl was beginning to wonder if she shouldn't have brought fire extinguishers for the crowd's safety. And there was absolutely a crowd.
The whole event had been advertised as a family adventure production, dozens of tiered stands overlooking the beach and filled to capacity, mostly children and adults but a fair smattering of other age groups present, Sovetskaya wryly reflecting that the teenagers were going to be in for an interesting show. Chao Ho, Ying Swei, Émile and Surcouf were the 'stars' of the show while Aegir and Regensburg were the nominal villains…and Sovetskaya doubted they were going to display little - if any - shame when it came to making themselves look good.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, soldiers and civilians, young and old welcome to Azur Lane's first public reveal of Heroes, Villains and Torpedoes~!"
"Just in case it wasn't obvious it was the Subs behind this monstrosity…"
"Shush, Javelin is really getting into this."
Enterprise's admonishment came as the Destroyer excitedly beamed from her announcer's podium as the crowd cheered and clapped, throwing out her arm wide as she shouted, "But you aren't her for little old me, you're here for the stars of the show and here they come~!"
From a concealed bit of temporary scaffolding golden fire shot out in eye-catching columns, the four 'heroines' of the show skating out amidst the conflagration…and Sovetskaya resisted the urge to sigh as the teenage hormones within the crowd spiked in an almost tangible wave.
True to her expectations Émile was the likely culprit of the production's dress code, the quartet's one piece swimsuits barely covering bits and pieces that shouldn't be displayed in public and were made almost decent by the flaring ribbons, silks and other additions to the attire.
"Is this suitable for children?"
Eugen chuckled at Enterprise's cautious words, responding, "If their balls have yet to drop I doubt they'll appreciate our sisters in any sort of impure sense. And do you really believe our Submarine sisters will give anyone time to ogle?"
"Our story begins during a routine patrol around Azur Lane, ensuring that no Old Sirens have attempted to slip past our defenses when suddenly-"
A deafening voltaic roar accompanied an underwater explosion that sent the four through graceful tumbles, mechanical dragons that were the Ironblood's Riggings bursting from the water in a spray of liquid that glistened in the afternoon sun, Aegir unleashing a glorious and haughty laugh as her microphone perfectly relayed her speech to the startled crowd.
"Foolish Shipgirls of Azur Lane, you think the Old Sirens were your greatest threat? Behold, the power of the Dragonesses of the Eastern Seas!"
Enterprise and Sovetskaya looked at the blank-faced Eugen, Hipper hiding her face in her hands.
"Let's set aside the breakneck storyline for the moment…still family friendly?"
"The action will distract from the almost nudity."
Eugen's mildly embarrassed words had Sovetskaya shaking her head, turning back to where Aegir was clearly in her element of hamming it up for the crowd as she monologued to the quartet below, Regensburg standing proud and intimidating were it not for the nervous curling of her mechanical tail that betrayed the sudden nervousness she no doubt felt being the center of attention.
Not that she could be blamed, considering she and Aegir were more or less put on display with thin straps of material preserving their modesty and little else.
"You will know the power of the Dragonesses, for no true Dragon fights alone!"
Eugen's words proving right on the money several Subs leapt over concealing obstacles, Riggings active as they dove beneath the waves and began firing off barrages of torpedoes that detonated in explosions of multi-colored water, the quartet of heroines artfully dancing and dodging as Aegir haughtily laughed through it all, Sovetskaya closing her eyes and releasing a breath of resignation as Javelin whipped the crowd into a delighted frenzy as she narrated the 'battle'.
…A sigh that quickly morphed into a small, almost unnoticeable smile.
If they could host spectacles like this more often she wouldn't exactly be adverse to the idea, if only because it meant her sisters had finally found some small measure of peace.
"All in all a rather successful day, wouldn't you agree?"
"I'll say. I didn't even know this body could get a hangover. Appreciate the pick me up, by the way."
Gratefully draining the flavored water handed to him by Tirpitz the Ironblood offered a brief smile before staring out over the festivities that were slowly winding down, several passenger vessels already retreating into the night as they transported the various civilians and dignitaries back to their homelands under the escort of a few military vessels and search planes, just in case anything went wrong.
"You can hold your booze pretty well. A lot better than this ice flower, at any rate."
Jean Bart's snarky comment didn't even seem to phase the Ironblood as she promptly retorted, "I might have taken offense to your comments if the three of us hadn't been outdrunk by the Union rabbit."
"Yeah, I'm pretty sure even by Shipgirl standards Laffey is insane."
Wincing in memory of just how much alcohol his petite little savior could do away with without missing a beat Alexander leaned back on his chair, Bart and Tirpitz obviously in fairly good moods themselves as their brief argument was only that, brief.
"Not worried about having to wake up early tomorrow morning, Commander?"
"Not really, no. It's all about cleanup and packing things away and that's what all the recently arrived personnel are for, it's the day after where things get truly chaotic."
"I do not envy you your station, Alexander."
"Funny, I feel the same way."
While the fair/carnival had been a smash hit it was essentially the last gasp before he ended up taking the final plunge into his responsibilities as the new Commander of Azur Lane, most of the world convinced of the validity and worth the various bits of technology provided…now he just needed to follow through.
"A spectacular display, Alexander. Now how will you carry out the next stage of your victory?"
"Well that's still in the works-HOLY SHIT!"
Observer Zero gave him an askance glance as she gracefully seated herself at the small picnic table they'd taken as their own, Tirpitz and Jean tensing but ultimately refraining from opening fire and instead choosing to affix the Neo Siren with an impressive set of murderous glares.
"You realize just randomly popping out of nowhere is an excellent way to get your damn head blown off, right? Wait, forget that, no one's watching, are they?"
"Afford me some credit, Alexander. TB ensured that no unwelcome eyes will be upon us."
"So that means we can take you out behind the shed and no one will notice, right?"
Bart's suggestive statement didn't so much as slow the Neo Siren, her painfully bright blue eyes focusing on the Aloadae, contemplatively musing, "When I first uplifted you so much still remained ambiguous and uncertain…even in my most optimistic scenarios I never would have imagined that you would rise to the occasion, even with the unexpected incursion by the Old Sirens throwing events off script."
"Well too bad for everyone else that died, right? Guess that was all part of your perfect scenarios, wasn't it?"
"Considering the alternative was the failure of our objective and your planet's demise? Yes."
Bart clicked her tongue in annoyance at Zero's immediate response, no doubt annoyed by the indifferent attitude of the pale-skinned woman as Alexander slowly replied, "Okay, that's nice to hear and all and it's great that some of your comrades are getting involved with getting Azur Lane back on its feet…but is this just a cheerleading session or are you here to warn of some other crisis knocking on our door?"
"None of these, instead I wished to thank you."
"...Come again?"
"I believe that is the responsibility of your many partners."
Alexander heard Tirpitz softly sigh in exasperation as he dryly remarked, "Sex jokes from a Neo Siren. Never thought I'd see the day."
"Interestingly, that latter part of your statement is what I wish to discuss. We were uncertain whether we would persist long enough to see our ultimate goal come to fruition. And it was your ascension that paved the way, your actions that vindicated the Creator's faith in us. That has now afforded us some measure of freedom, even if many of our own have little idea of how to make use of it."
The day's surprises didn't seem over by a long shot as Observer closed her eyes, inclining her head and gravely intoning, "Thank you, Alexander Curtis. For surpassing every estimation and variable we had assigned to you."
"..."
"..."
"...Uh, right. Um, fuck, kind of at a loss of what to say to that. Especially since there's still a lot of bad blood between us with the mass amounts of Human genocide, good intentions or not-"
"A little bad blood?"
"-so let's just leave things off as a mutual promise to move forward and try to make sure we all live to enjoy aforementioned future, alright?"
Zero offered a small smile, idly musing, "Then that is what we shall do. Do look after TB, Alexander, she is quite precious to me."
"Couldn't make do without her."
With that the Neo Siren gracefully rose to her feet and departed without another word, melting into the night as Bart scoffed.
"A little bad blood, huh? I'm amazed you can even talk to those things with a straight face."
"They're the poster children for 'I was just following orders'. I can't entirely forgive them for what they've done but at the same time there's nothing to gain by holding a grudge. Honestly I'm kind of hoping they just go their own way, don't bother us and offer technical support, that'd be the best option."
"It seems likely that it won't happen then."
"I hate that you're right."
Tirpitz tipped her hat in a brief salute, rising to her feet while stating, "Do look after my stubborn sister, will you? She refuses to listen to myself, U-556 and Hood on the best of days, perhaps a stranger will be able to reach past her infamously stubborn exterior."
Bart snorted, grumbling, "You're not alone in the stubborn sisters club, let me tell you…"
"Are you sure they're the stubborn ones and not yourself?"
The arch remark predictably had Bart in a fighting mood, hotly replying, "The one damn time I try to be chummy with you and it gets flipped right around in my face, what gives?"
"You're quite sensitive for someone who so freely doles out confrontational words, has anyone ever told you that?"
Deciding it was best to leave on a high note Alexander went on his way, leaving the pair to wear themselves out as he reflected that he should try to get some sleep, since he had work tomorrow and all that shit.
"Huh. Never really thought I would ever go back to having a nine to five schedule."
"Ready to begin, Master?"
"Considering I'm running on three hours of sleep and the last vestiges of a hangover? I'm amazed I'm even functioning. Nine to five my ass…"
"Coffee, then?"
"Thank you, lifesaver."
Hermione merely offered a professional yet friendly nod as she retrieved a steaming cup from…well, somewhere and handed it to him, Alexander taking a grateful sip before idly commenting, "Surprised it wasn't just tea on the menu. Or is that me having cultural bias?"
"All bias is based on some measure of truth, Master. But we merely assumed that considering the bevy of events headed your way something stronger than tea would be needed."
"No kidding."
Taking a deep breath of the cool and slightly humid morning air - the sun just then beginning to peek over the horizon - Alexander jealously regarded the Cruiser's unflappable demeanor, her countenance impeccable and suggesting that she'd gotten a nice twelve hours of rest rather than the three they were both likely operating under.
"Then again she probably didn't get into a drinking competition with Laffey, so there's that to consider."
"Nervous about your first day on the job, Master?"
"Eh, a little bit. Not as much as I once was seeing as how the scope of my responsibilities got shaved down a fair bit and I'm going to have plenty of help."
"Excellent to hear, if nothing else I can assure you the Maid Corps will do everything in its power to lighten your burden. The Head Maid was quite adamant that we see to your every need as it would be crucial for the foundation of Azur Lane moving forward."
The Aloadae narrowed his eyes, well earned suspicions causing him to ask, "I'd be wary of her phrasing, if I were you."
"Hmm? Whatever for?"
Deciding not to walk into a trap of his own making Alexander merely shook his head, trying to resist Hermione's adorable head tilt of genuine curiosity as he responded, "Never mind, just something to keep in mind. Belfast likes her riddles."
"She can be a bit obtuse at times…"
Inwardly pumping his fist in triumph at bullshitting his way out of that one Alexander elected to keep his peace as they made their way to his office, a flat and heavily reinforced building surrounded by trees and other concealing fauna that ensured both safety and pleasing aesthetics, the structure having a basement level that could be reached in a hurry if shit truly hit the fan.
And standing or sitting in various levels of discipline and attention were his 'secretaries', a loosely applied term that seemed more like a playful moniker than it did actual description of their duties.
First was Shoukaku and Akagi, the former offering a warm smile and deep bow…followed by a sharp elbow to her fellow's side, the fox woman giving the Aloadae a narrowed glare before curtly responding with a nod and slow thrashing of her tails.
"Look, I know that Nagato is pretty good at leading and all of that, but is having Akagi here really that good of an idea? I mean there were a lot of rumors about her that even Bismarck wasn't saddled with."
Deciding there wasn't any point in raising a stink when he didn't have the full picture Alexander merely nodded in response, returning the pale-haired Carrier's smile with one of his own, moving further down the line as his pair of Eagle Union assistants snapped off crisp salutes, the first announcing, "Helena and Casablanca reporting for duty, Commander."
Hesitating for a moment before deciding it was appropriate to reciprocate the gesture the Aloadae inwardly reflected that the blue-haired Cruiser was one to keep an eye on, Enterprise and Essex quietly informing him that she had been one of The Commander's most trusted and reliable favorites, the pair basically grandfather and daughter.
If it hadn't been for her absurdly efficient and skilled administrative talents then he wouldn't have wanted her but as it stood he was just going to have to make do and pray that she wasn't miserable while serving under him.
Thankfully Casablanca didn't come equipped with any baggage, the Light Carrier merely seeming eager to please as she released the salute, Hermione joining her three other comrades and offering a deep bow, Alexander wondering what Belfast thought his job description was going to be like if she thought he needed four of the super maids, Hermione, Charybdis, Scylla and Janus awaiting his commands as the Ironbloods were next, Bismarck and Z23 firing off snappy salutes as Z46 blinked, following suit a moment later at Z23's pointed cough.
"We stand ready to serve, Kommandant."
"I'll be needing your support."
"Damn I'm bad with military discipline and rituals. And I can't just keep thinking that either, I'm going to have to get better at it."
Drifting further down the line Maestrale and Kiev were flanking Chen Hai, Alexander hearing only good things about the Empery Carrier's tactical acumen while the two Destroyers were reputed to be able and intelligent. The smaller Shipgirls were certainly enthusiastic, Maestrale offering a small curtsy while Kiev offered a hesitant but nonetheless proficient salute, Chen Hai proffering a small nod that might have come off as disrespectful considering their difference in rank but these were strange times so he wasn't about to begrudge her that.
"Okay…let's get this shit underway."
"As much as I would like to descend into a bunch of various speeches and stuff I think I'll just stick with a general 'thank you' for undertaking this position. None of you had to yet here you are, willing and able to deal with what no doubt's going to be a long and winding road to a somewhat proficient workflow. And with that out of the way…Scylla, you have today's itinerary?"
"Of course, Master."
Unlocking the office's doors he was treated to the sight of several workstations loaded down with monitors, computers, filing cabinets and all sorts of administrative tools that he was no doubt going to have to be making all sorts of use out of going forward.
Also plenty of adjustable desks and chairs. It'd be kinda fucked if they asked Destroyers to help run Azur Lane and then forced them to wrench their shoulders out of their sockets trying to reach a keyboard.
"First on the itinerary is coming up with suitable passwords and login information for all present, as well as choosing which station will belong to who. Afterwards we will have to decide on a workable manner of organization when it comes to communication and scheduling, as well as ensure all equipment is properly connected to the newly installed Azur Lane network."
"This is what I was pressed into?"
"Shush, it's only for a short time."
Electing to ignore Akagi and Shoukaku's whispered interaction he instead motioned for Scylla to continue, the maid obliging as she stated, "And once that is completed you will have to visit the research lab to bring forth two more of our sisters, as well as a meeting between the Admiralty after that."
"...That sounds like a lot of stuff to do in one day. When do I sleep?"
"The Head Maid made it clear you only require two hours at maximum in order to function."
The Aloadae sighed, resigned to a long while of misery and perpetual working as conversation and general chatter quickly filled the room as he booted up his own computer, leaning back in his chair and idly reflecting that for a simple dock worker and war orphan…he'd managed to do alright for himself.
"Well, nothing for it, then. Might as well start saving the world again."
"N-no, Z46, your password shouldn't be your name!"
"And just why am I sitting next to you?"
"U-umm, are we allowed decorations at our desks?"
"Err, Commander? My computer isn't turning on."
"...Maybe we'll be taking baby steps on the path of salvation, then."
END
Well this marks the 'end' of Birth of a Siren, or perhaps I should say the main chapters of it. I had an absolute metric boatload of side stories, interactions, plot bunnies and such that didn't fit into the main storyline without going into significant side tangents that basically wanted everything to go on pause for a little while.
But with that properly concluded the field is open and while updates are sporadic from here on out they're far more capable of tackling a whole range of topics and plot threads.
Huge thanks to those that stuck along for the ride and hopefully the coasting in process will be just as rewarding.
...
Lol. Coast.