"Lieutenant Jones, do you know why you were called here?"

No, Lieutenant John Paul Jones had no idea. His record, as far as he knew, had been spotless. No, his navy life had been uneventful so far. Nothing that would warrant him being called before the Admiral just weeks before Christmas, either.

"No sir, I don't," he replied, pushing his glasses up after they had slid down his nose. It would be better to be upfront than pretending that he knew. "I don't recall any specific issue."

"Well, it's not about your conduct or performance, so don't worry about that."

"Then...what is the reason, if I may ask?" he inquired, the tension easing a little though his mind continued to race with questions.

"Well, there's a specific reason, a rather pressing matter," the Admiral said.

"What is it, sir?"

"...It's that person. The one you brought on board."

"You mean...the pirate KANSEN, sir?"

Well, nobody else would fit the bill. He felt silly for asking.

"Yes. She's been here for a while, and I think it's about time we get a more...in-depth report about her," the Admiral went on. "We already know she saved you and that she insisted on tagging along. Under normal circumstances, we would not allow someone to follow you onto your ship, but considering she's apparently a KANSEN and a very unusual one to boot, well...the brass is making an exception."

"So what you want me to do is to write a report about her."

"Yes, and spare no details. We want to know everything. Abilities, personality, everything."

"With all due respect, sir, why me?"

"You are the one who brought her here. Considering we have been, er, pretty much locking her up, I think she won't trust anyone so easily. But you, you could be an exception. Try to win her trust."

Well, ain't that flattering, he thought.

"And when do you want this by, sir?"

"As soon as possible. Maybe in a week or less."

"A week, sir?"

"Well, we're not going to let her stay here if we don't know what she's capable of or what she's up to. We need to decide if she can be an asset or end up a liability. And we need to decide quickly, preferably before Christmas."

Jones had no choice but to concede. He was going to have to ask her some pretty personal questions—but then again, their brief interactions had painted the image of a woman who's very, very forthright. Maybe it wouldn't be too difficult to get an idea about what she was really like.

"Understood, sir. Will there be anything else?"

"That will be all, Lieutenant. Dismissed."

Jones saluted the Admiral and left the office with questions. Lots and lots of questions.

Who was she, really? Why did she follow him? What if the brass decided she would be more of a liability than an asset?

The last question was the most troubling one. Would they get rid of her, even after she had saved him?

He shook his head. He couldn't afford to waste time speculating. He would get the answers he wanted and maybe even some he didn't.


She had been given a rather spacious room instead of the cell, at the very least—though it was more of a gilded cage, so to speak. She was allowed out of it at certain times but was never allowed to roam free. In any case, she didn't seem to be particularly upset about the arrangement. She seemed perfectly content to read whatever magazines were made available to her or the occasional crossword puzzle from the back editions of the New York Times that she never seemed to finish.

"Well, isn't it Lieutenant Jones? Here to check up on me again?"

Her smile was sunny, as usual. And again, the subtly briny air she always had about her was noticeable. It wasn't unpleasant, really—just a tad odd.

"Well, I, er, wanted to talk with you, actually," he scratched the back of his head, which wasn't even itching. "Just talk."

"Hmm...so why do you want to talk? If it's about your rescue, then I told you already, no thanks is needed."

"Actually, I'm here to...know about you," he replied.

She blinked, an uncharacteristic display of incredulity. But it was so fleeting that he had a mind to think she was faking it.

"Oh...is this because I'm...different from the others? What do you call them lasses here? KANSENs?" she asked.

"Yeah. You could say that. Look, I know you have the right to privacy, but the brass wants to know. You are a KANSEN we don't have a record about, and your origins are a complete mystery. I'm sorry, but this is necessary."

He looked away, unable to look her in the eye. He was, after all, basically interrogating her.

"Heehee, so they are telling you to be nosy now, huh? Poor, poor lad, being sent into the lion's den."

As she spoke, the tentacles on her tricorn hat started writhing, almost as if they were alive, and it was a rather surreal, unnerving sight.

"...I, I hope you don't take this the wrong way," he mumbled.

"Hm, since you've been nothing but nice, I could play along," her crimson eyes glinted, and her grin toothy. "But if I'm to tell you everything, then you need to do me a favor in return."

"A...favor? What kind of favor?"

"You will find out later. For now, just agree, and I will tell you everything you want to know. Or try to. My memory isn't the best."

Well, that was something he could work with.

"All right, then. It's a deal."

"Then, ask away!"

"Well...for starters, why are you here? How did you become a KANSEN?"

"Hmm...so, well, I'm not quite sure myself, really," she scratched her chin, "The same way the others came to be, I guess."

"So, a wisdom cube and memories of your past life."

"Ohoh, a cube? And memories? Interesting. I do remember everything. It goes waaaaaaaay back."

"Way back to when, exactly?"

"Tsk, have you never heard of the Golden Age of Piracy? What's my name again?"

"Er...Royal Fortune?"

"Yep, that's me! Flagship of Bart Roberts, one of the greatest pirates who ever sailed the Caribbean—well, at least until the British had the Cap'n biting the dust and the storm at Port Royal sent me to the Davy Jones' Locker, that is."

"Uh-huh. So that explains...the getup."

Of course, that still didn't explain the mass of massive tentacles that supposedly form part of her apparent rigging. In fact, in the back of his mind, the sight of them reminded him of the Sirens of old.

No, no, no, it couldn't be. She couldn't be one of them, could she?

"Yes, quite a look, ain't it? Ravishing, even," she giggled, the sound of her laughter breaking the spell of his dark thoughts.

"Uh, yeah, I'd say so," he looked away from the sight of her bouncing bosom as she continued laughing. The form-fitting, sleeveless, backless top certainly did wonders for her figure. Even with all his professionalism, it was impossible to ignore.

"In any case, it seems I've been given a second chance at life. It's a miracle and a gift. So I figured, hey, why not use it for good, right?"

"True. But...do you remember any exact details of er, how you came to be? It must be pretty recent, right, since nobody had ever seen you before?"

"Yes, I guess? I could only remember waking up to a gleaming blue light...and before I knew it, there I was. Standing on the waters. A brave new world, disoriented. It took a while and a lot of exploring before I decided to just roam around."

"And that's when we met. Huh, it must've been a long way to reach that part of the Atlantic. And to think you probably had no navigation tools..."

"Tsk, tsk. Every true sailor knows how to navigate the seas with just the stars and the winds when that's all you have," she wagged her finger. "Well, it just so happens I had a compass, so that helped, too."

"Okay," he jotted down what she said and what he had gleaned.

Excellent navigation skills. That's one thing. How she'd fare in battle remains to be seen. Maybe ask if she could join the practice session.

Riggings needs further investigation—if she allows it, however.

Personality and history...not very clear yet. The latter may warrant a more specific query.

As for how she will fit in at this port: As it stands now, without giving her considerably more leeway, that would be impossible to gauge.

"Anything else you want to ask?" she quipped, her smile a touch mischievous.

"Er, yeah. One last thing. Just what are those things on your hat?"

"Huh? Do you mean these tentacles? They are part of me, just like this thing here," she pointed to another one framing her face, which could be easily mistaken for a sidelock at first glance. A closer look revealed one more on the other side.

"Er, okay. Part of you, yeah."

"Oh, don't look so apprehensive," she leaned closer, allowing one of the appendages to brush against his cheek, leaving a cold, slick trail before knocking his glasses askew. "They are completely harmless. All they can do is grab or tickle. The ones I used for battles are a different story, though."

"Y, yeah, sure. Well, then. Uh, I think, eh, we could take a little break here. I will, uh, see you again. Perhaps later. Is there...anything I can get for you?"

"Oh, how sweet of you, matey," she leaned back and giggled. I could use some good tea. Or another magazine. Or, more importantly, the chance to meet the other...what's the word again? Ah, KANSENs. I'd love me some good company. I'm not saying you're bad, though! I mean, haven't I shown you that I meant no harm?"

"Well, yes, you have, so far," he cleared his throat, not fully sure if that was the case—or if he only had himself to blame. "I can only take that request to the Admiral, though, so no promises. I hope I can convince him, but you know, there's the matter of security and all that."

"Tsk, you people and your stupid bureaucracy. Then again, Cap'n Roberts was also strict despite being a pirate, so I guess I shouldn't be badmouthin' you lot. Alrighty, if we're done here, I will just go back to my books, then. See ya around, matey!"

"Sure. I will be off now."

"Come back soon, will ya?"

"Er, sure. I will do my best."

When he was already outside, he let out the longest breath he had ever held in his entire life and headed for the Admiral's office.


"You want...what?"

"Uh, well, sir, I think, uh, granting her some liberty could go a long way towards earning her trust," he mumbled, expending every effort not to look anywhere but at the Admiral. "Also, I believe that removing her limiter and allowing her to join practice sessions could reveal more about how she'd fare in combat."

"I see. Well, I suppose the brass would want to know how she will fit in as well, especially since her...history would complicate things. And we did want to know her capabilities. It would take time, but this could be a first step."

"So you'll approve it, sir?"

"You made a convincing argument, I admit. But do know that she will be your responsibility. If she starts causing trouble, it will be your neck on the gallows. Are you sure you want to go ahead with this?"

"Uh, y, yes, sir."

His nerve was beginning to fray, but he managed to keep a straight face and posture.

"Lieutenant Jones," the Admiral's stern gaze softened, and he smiled. "You're a good man."

"I'm not sure I understand what you mean, sir."

"All this, for her sake? You could've just done the bare minimum and get a simple report. But here you are, asking more for her sake. Not everyone would be that nice."

"It's just part of the job, sir. That's all."

"For your sake, I hope that is indeed the case. Very well, I will give you the clearance. Expect it by tomorrow. If that's all you wanted to say, you're dismissed."

"Sir. Thank you, sir."

Jones saluted and left the office with a little less burden.


"So, it's all set up."

"What's all set up, matey?"

"Your temporary freedom. You are free to go around this base as long as someone is accompanying you. And, uh, that would be me. At least for the meantime."

"Huzzah! Finally, some real air!"

She immediately jumped out of her bed and began skipping around. Even when he attempted to keep a stoic face, it was difficult not to smile at the sight.

"Okay, I get it that you're excited, but you may want to wear this first," he handed her a black coat. "It is starting to snow."

"And? Mine can handle it just fine. I looked like this when we met, and I'm warm enough," she crossed her arms and huffed.

While it was probably true, since she was still wearing the same clothes she had during their encounter, it would be prudent for her to look less eyebrow-raising. Or so he thought.

But he was beginning to harbor doubts.

Was it fair to try and make her conform?

"Sorry, if you don't want to, it's okay," he said, "We can leave when you're ready."

"Nah, I think I'll wear it, since it's from you. Just gimme a moment."

She took the coat after shedding her own and leaving it on the bed. She put it on, and it soon became apparent that it was a touch too big for her.

"Ooooh, cozy, actually!" she chirped, untroubled by the discrepancy.

"Heh, yeah. So, let's go?"

"Lead the way, ya scurvy dog."

Despite saying that, she was the one who rushed out of the room and towards the exit, oversized clothing be damned.

"Hey, wait up!" He gave chase, hoping the guards wouldn't get the impression she was trying to escape.

He eventually caught up with her outside; she was still, breathing deeply with her eyes closed, her arms spread wide.

It was so serene that he decided whatever he wanted to say could wait.

"It's so good to be out after such a long time. The air, the sounds, it's all so lovely."

"Yes, yes it is," he murmured, half-listening, half-drowned by the sight of her.

"And the light snow falling on your hai—wait a tick, I forgot my hat!"

"You're not going back in. And besides, you're already drawing attention enough even without that...thing."

Indeed, she was drawing curious stares, though nobody was gawking openly. The coat had done much to mask the more unusual nature of her clothes, but it certainly wasn't able to completely hide the tentacles, which were swaying around.

But maybe being in a good mood had made her more agreeable to suggestions.

"Tsk, alright. So, can we meet up with the other KANSENs?"

"Well, I guess there are those who are off-duty at the moment. Let's just walk around the base for a bit, shall we?"

"Fine by me!"

And so, with no particular destination in mind, the two wandered around the base.

The subs and destroyers, at least the few of them present, seemed to have taken an interest in her. Perhaps the unusual presence of a visitor—at least, as far as they were aware—had prompted their curiosity. She, for her part, was more than happy to indulge them with tales of her adventures. Whether they were real or not or simply embellished to some degree was anyone's guess, but her audience was captivated all the same, and she seemed to enjoy the attention.

"So, did the pirates ever find the treasure?" asked the ever-curious Bristol.

"Aye, and it was a lot of gold and jewels, fit for a king," Royal Fortune replied with a flourish as if to illustrate the abundance of riches, which could be very well imaginary, "And they shared the booty, of course, as any good pirate would."

A good pirate. Quite an oxymoron, he chuckled amid all the chorus of ooooohs and aaaaaahs.

"Well, I have to say, that was a rather exciting story," he said as the girls returned to their activities, this time with large grins.

"Of course it was, matey. The truth is stranger than fiction, anyway."

"That remains to be seen, but I'm pretty sure those girls won't stop talking about pirates for a while."

"Bet my ration of rum they never saw a real one, too. Wait, I don't drink. Bet my share of booty, then."

"You don't have that either," he smirked, "unless there's something you haven't told me."

"You don't know half of it, matey. Of course, you are more than welcome to search me thoroughly if you'd like," she winked and stuck out her tongue.

"...I'm 'not' going that far, thank you."

"Heehee, just teasin' ya. Maybe."

Maybe?

He didn't want to dwell on that.

"Well, so far, you've shown yourself to be quite sociable, so that's a plus," he coughed to clear the intrusive thoughts. "If you are really dead set on being part of all this, that could go a long way, too."

"Oh, still working on that, are ya? I almost forgot about it. So, what if these bigwigs decided they didn't want Royal Fortune around? Get rid of me?"

"Well..."

He didn't know, of course. He didn't want to know, either. All he knew was that he was torn between his duty and the promise of a better world.

Perhaps he had been more obvious than he liked because she gave him a reassuring pat.

"Don't look so glum, scallawag. Worst come to pass, I'll just bail and disappear. I have means, you see, even if I couldn't take out...what do you call it? Right, riggings."

"But wouldn't that, er, break our agreement?"

"Not going to hold it against ya."

"You wouldn't?"

"No. It's not like you can do anything about that."

True, but he still didn't like it.

"I see. So, are you sure that's what you'd want? Just a while ago, you were all hyped up about joining."

"And I am. But if they won't let me, what choice do I have?"

"Yeah, that makes sense, I guess," he sighed.

"It ain't over 'til it's over, matey. So, what's next?"

Her optimism was rather uplifting, he had to admit.

"Well...up to you. There's the practice range, the mess hall, the stores, the library..."

"Practice range, eh?"

"Yeah. Just a place where the KANSENs can exercise their riggings by shooting old hulls to shreds, basically. And no dummy rounds either. Live ammo, like the ones in battle."

"Really, now? That's pretty awesome!"

"And, uh, just want you to know that you're welcome to use it. At least for the time being. You have been cleared to use your riggings...just, please, don't blow anything else. It's my neck on the line, and besides...you wanted to make a good impression, didn't you?"

"Oh, I see. More of those report things, eh? Here I thought you've seen enough."

"Well, if we have someone to corroborate my findings, the brass might be more likely to believe them."

"Hah, that's a good idea, matey. Alright, let's do it, then."

"Sure. I think the range should be free at the moment. So, we can go there now if you'd like."

"'Kay. Let's."

The range was nothing but a repurposed dock, with a large swath of the waters in its vicinity littered with old ships, ranging from small patrol craft to frigates. There were a couple of smoking wrecks that had yet to be replaced, too.

He presented the officer on duty with the clearance the Admiral had given him, and she, in turn, allowed them entry after ordering a group of seamen to set up cameras and equipment.

"What's this? You're turning me into some sort of spectacle?" she frowned.

"It's nothing like that," he raised his hand, "it's for the report. This way, they could check your capabilities more easily. Let's just say it's the standard procedure."

"Oh. Alright, then."

"So, are you ready to begin? We have a selection of targets over here. You can pick any one you like to engage. They can be set to fire back at you, too, if you're so inclined. But remember, they hurt."

"Pfft, I've been shot at a lot in my past life."

"True, but I'd rather not have you hurt."

There was a moment of silence before he found her face awfully close to his.

Her smile was still cheeky, but now it had a certain gentleness to it, too.

"Mighty sweet of you. But no need to worry about little ol' me."

"Okay, if you say so. Now, try to bring out your rigging. It should be possible now."

"Woohoo, it's been a while. Watch closely, matey."

She stepped into the waters, hands outstretched as he watched with bated breath.

The surface beneath her feet began to bubble and boil, turning jet-black and releasing a cloud of black smoke.

"Hoist the sails! Batten down the hatches! Release the anchors! Prepare for battle!"

From the black mire emerged the remains of a sailing ship, its wooden hull rotting, what remaining of its masts and sails decayed, its guns rusting but ready.

But they were not as terrifying as the mass of tentacles that extended from its underside, each seemingly strong enough to smash through any ship, and those eyeball-like orbs floating about.

And, of course, that arcane book hovering before her as well.

It was as majestic as it was frightening, and though it wasn't the first time he saw it, the sight was no less breathtaking—even with the addition of the oversized coat and without the storms. The same could be said of the rest of the observers, and he wouldn't blame them for gaping and paling at something they surely had never seen before.

"A-are you sure she's even a KANSEN...?" someone mumbled, barely audible over the din of the roar that followed.

"Oh, yeah. Trust me," he murmured, feeling his legs wobble a bit.

"I've never seen anything like it," a sailor said, "and I've seen a lot."

"Yeah, same. And I've seen some crazy shit."

"She's not going to blow us up, right?"

"No, she wouldn't. I think."

"How could you be so sure, Lieutenant?"

"Well...call it a hunch," he smiled and shrugged.

"So, are we going or not?" Royal Fortune shouted impatiently.

"Er, right away. Pick a target, and try not to hit the others. The range is yours. When you're ready."

"Aye. Stand back, matey. Don't want you getting hurt."

"Uh, alright."

He took a few steps back, as did the rest of the crowd.

The broadside thundered, cannonballs flying out at a blinding speed.

Old-fashioned weapons they may be, but the cannonade was strong enough to punch holes on the smaller targets. Perhaps it was just his imagination, but the velocity seemed faster than that of the guns from his own ship. The bigger ones fared better against them, but the tentacles had no problem tearing them apart.

The grinning visage stood out amid all the smoke, as did the laughter that followed.

It wasn't malicious, however, just the joy of finally letting loose.

"That's one hell of a show," a sailor marveled, latching on the railing, "Jesus, I'd hate to get hit by one of those."

"Man, this time, I must agree with you," the other shuddered. "Damn, she wasn't even winded."

The more Royal Fortune fired, the louder the cheers. What she'd shown him on that fateful night was nothing compared to the boisterous salvos she was unleashing.

He figured it was safe to say that the doubts surrounding her combat skills would be put to rest.

His work was far from done, though.

"Hey, uh, Royal Fortune. That was awesome, but we should stop for a while."

"Eh? But it was just gettin' good!" She whined and pouted, but she put her riggings away anyway.

"Well, we have already enough data, and they look promising. And, uh, I don't want you to wear yourself out. There's still next time, okay?"

"Next time better come soon!"

"I'll try my best."

After fending off the sailors before they could ask too many questions, he ushered Royal Fortune away, who had to be prodded along because she was enjoying the compliments. She still had that smug look even after they left the range.

It felt so human—and for just a moment, he could forget what she really was.

Lunch was spent at a fast food joint because she asked, and she cherished every bite out of that greasy meal, the oil leaving a sheen on her lips which somehow made them seem fuller.

More KANSENs passed by them, and those who happened to notice had varying reactions. Intrigued was the most common one, alongside surprise, but there was one or two who seemed wary. She only had a ready smile to offer, and even the most apprehensive smiled back.

Maybe she could win them over with ease, but for that to happen, she must become part of the fleet. That much he hoped, at least.

Naval Station New York had a rather well-developed library, with a collection that could only seem to grow bigger every month. Multilingual, too, considering the diverse nationalities of the personnel that made up the base. Royal Fortune may never give off the impression of being a reader, but she quickly showed him that the place was like a second home for her. She would disappear between the shelves, coming back with a small stack of books and a smile, and then disappear again after putting them back.

Her taste, as he soon found out, ran the gamut of genres, from nautical and military history to trashy romance novels and crime fiction. None was too highbrow or lowbrow. All was equal in her eyes—a worthy read.

"So, you actually do read, huh?"

"What, just because I'm a pirate, you think I'm illiterate?" she rolled her eyes. "Then again, I kinda like your surprised look."

"No, it's not that. It's just, the image of a pirate reading is, uh, not very common, is all."

"It isn't, which makes me all the more special. Think about it."

Special.

Perhaps that was the case, but not because of what she had read.

"As long as you're having fun. If...you want to borrow anything, I could do it on your behalf, since I have a library card. Just...be mindful when it's time to return them."

"Seriously?" She looked up from the pages.

"Uh, yes?"

"Seriously?" She slammed the book shut.

"Yes...?"

Seriously?" Any closer now, and their noses could touch, and that felt...dangerous. Wasn't he just suggesting something as simple as borrowing books? Was she only messing with him? He hoped that was the case. She had been doing that a lot anyway.

"I'm serious, I swear, by the powers, I am."

It was a good thing the place was mostly empty at the moment because, even though she wasn't getting any closer, she wasn't moving away either.

"Okay then! So I just need to pick things I want to read and let you borrow it for me, huh?"

"Ye-yeah. That way, uh, you can read something you actually want to read, not something we picked for you. Pi-pick carefully, okay? I could only borrow like three at most."

She nodded but lingered for a while.

"Um, what is it?"

"Oh, nothing, really. It's just...you've been doing an awful lot for me. And while you're still owing me a favor, even. Now I feel bad. Maybe I should just call it even? Hmmm."

"No, it's nothing. Just doing my job."

"Being nice is part of the Navy's job description? Huh."

"No, no. What I mean is, it's just the right thing to do."

"Heh."

That was all. Vague, yet warm.

She pulled away, returning to her perusing.

And he could breathe easy again.

The sun was about to set when the day was finally done.

He thought he didn't get much done in terms of his task, save for the practice session and a glimpse of how she would interact with other KANSENs. That was it.

Yet, somehow, it didn't feel like a complete waste of time.

"Thanks for lettin' me out, matey. Really, really appreciate it," she paused by the threshold of her temporary quarters.

"My pleasure."

"Thanks for the books, too. The ones I have are startin' to get boring. So, thanks."

"Again, my pleasure."

"And the food, too."

"Hope you enjoy it."

"Oh, you don't know."

"I can imagine, I think. Thanks, too, for staying out of trouble."

"Heh, a pirate knows when to pick a fight and when not to. So, bye for now, matey. Maybe...we could do this again?"

Hopeful. That's the word that came to mind when she spoke. Genuinely so, he believed.

Perhaps they could. After all, he still had that report to finish, and he wasn't any closer to that goal.

"Sure, I would love to. See you."

No promise of tomorrow. But it would have to do.

"See ya."

The door closed, and only then he was allowed to sigh.

Maybe he wasn't being entirely honest, but for a man with his circumstances, it was the best he could do.

Yet he kept glancing at the door as he left. The walk home felt longer than usual.

There were many things he was still unsure of, but his desire to see her again was not one of them. He wanted to take her places and show her things—not just this place but that shining city beyond the harbor.

It was a radical idea, that thought which suddenly occurred to him. He wasn't sure how the Admiral would take it.

But maybe it will be worth it?


"You want to what?"

The Admiral looked like he had been asked to cartwheel over a minefield in nothing but a Speedo. It was jarring, considering he was usually a rather relaxed person despite his position, but there was no backing out now.

"I would like the permission to take her out for just a day when I'm off-duty, sir. It will be limited only to Manhattan. No further. No going AWOL after that. It should help with my task."

"And how will this benefit this task of yours, pray tell?"

"I believe this will give me a chance to observe her in a different environment, one without any constraints. That way, I could observe her behavior in a more, ah, natural state."

"You want to see her as she is, is that what you mean?"

"Uh, yes. I've seen the way she conducts herself here, but there's something missing. And that is because of the limitations and restrictions imposed on her. In a city, however, there's no such thing. That's why I would like the opportunity."

"Hmmm."

The Admiral leaned forward, fingers steepled. That could only mean one thing. He had caught on to something and was about to press.

"There's a personal stake in this, isn't there?"

"Er, no, sir, no."

"Don't lie when you don't have the skill. Especially to your superior. Now, let's try again, and I'll overlook that infraction, shall we?"

"Okay. There is. Sir."

"That's what I thought. Go on."

"She has been very cooperative. So, I guess I could do this much. It's a small thing, really. But I would like to thank her in a more meaningful way. So, yes. A little personal, sir. Sorry."

"I see," the Admiral reclined back, the chair squeaking as he did. "Protocols say no, but I'd be a hypocrite if I said I have never allowed personal feelings to influence my decision. You've proven yourself to be...say, trustworthy. And she did behave well yesterday. Alright, Lieutenant. Permission granted. Any expenses will come from your own pockets, and if things go south, expect to face consequences. Dire ones. Are we clear?"

"Crystal, sir. Thank you."

"You will not go any further than Manhattan, understood?"

"Understood."

"Good. You are dismissed."

He saluted and was about to walk out, but then the Admiral called out.

"Lieutenant."

"Sir?"

"You're a good man. Don't screw it up."

"Would not dream of it, sir."


Royal Fortune's reaction was exactly what he imagined it would be.

"We're going where?!"

"We're going to Manhattan. That is, if you want to."

"Do I want to? Is the Pope Catholic?"

So that was a yes. To be honest, he couldn't imagine any other answer. Now, only one thing was left to do.

"Um...I was thinking of buying you new clothes. I mean...you have been wearing the same outfit since you got here."

"Oh? So you think I need a wardrobe change? Hm?"

"No, I think the current outfit suits you. It's just...you know, maybe you would like something a bit more casual. Something more comfortable, like a coat that fits, at least."

He felt like wheezing when she came close, too close, and gave him the once-over.

"Wastin' yer hard-earned pieces o' eight on me, matey? All for nothin'? You...trouble me, ye do."

"How am I troubling you, exactly?"

"What could you be thinkin', hm?" Her fingers danced along the edge of his collar, brushing against his neck, and that was enough to send a shiver down his spine. "You like having a wench beholden to ya?"

"No. I just want to," he caught the hand as it traced up his neck, and she didn't put up much of a struggle, only staring, "For what you've done for me. You're going to see a world beyond these shores, a world I grew up with, a world you might come to love. So, be part of it. At least for a while."

What was he saying? What was he doing? What was she doing to him?

Her lips quirked up, and for a moment, she looked a bit shy.

It was short-lived, but it was there. It was real.

Then a nod, and the moment passed.

"So...just that?"

"Uh, yes. We should probably go soon if you're ready."

"Going like this?"

Of course. Her hand. It was still firmly in his. Why didn't she say anything, broke free? Why wasn't he letting go?

"Oh, sorry!"

She was still smiling when he let go. It didn't make it any easier.

"Hehehe. Well, I'm ready. Are you?"

"Uh, yeah. Sure. Let's go. And leave the hat."

"Aww!"


The base exchange was not a Macy's, but it had a respectable selection of apparel that didn't look impossibly tacky or plain like dollar store offerings.

For all her bravado and flamboyance, her choice of winterwear was rather tame, even conservative, and not just in terms of color. No gaudy colors or flashy patterns. The dark brown peacoat with black fur trimming was the most adventurous she got.

It was actually refreshing to see that practical side of her.

"This'll do, I reckon."

"Good. Now, we can finally move on."

"To...?"

"Where we should be, of course."

It had a nice ring to it, and when she heard it, her eyes shone like the most well-polished ruby.

"Aye, matey."


Whitehall Terminal was the starting point of their journey into the heart of New York City, starting with Lower Manhattan, where the city began.

The Big Apple in December wasn't all that cold save for the occasional wind. The usual crowd was on the move, with everyone wrapped up in their own bubble, the pulse that keeps the city beating.

The 12 days were coming soon, with all the magic associated with it. Primped-up storefronts, postcard-like views, and the buzz of anticipation—that was New York at its most festive.

Like a bird set loose, she flitted about from here to there, not particularly caring where she was going.

This, this was what he was looking for. A glimpse into who she was, or, rather, could be, and that was what he found.

She posed with the Bull of Wall Street, sitting on its head, and told him to take photos before the security showed up. She joked out loud that the entire district must be rich enough to plunder while she was at it. That drew a few curious stares and his laugh. She frolicked around the Bowling Green Fountain, the cold spray not bothering her in the slightest.

The Battery. The Statue of Liberty. A new taste of tea in the Chinatown. A new taste of coffee in Little Italy. The offbeat vibes of Greenwich Village.

Learning, discovering—and it was only beginning.

It was a simple thing, really. Not quite the adventure of the high seas, but it was adventure enough for her.

She loved every minute of it.

And he would love every minute of watching her.

It was no longer the need to complete his task.

Not anymore.


The tour was a cliche in a way—he took them to all the places expected from a trip to Midtown.

But her reactions were, at times, rather unexpected.

Being on top of the Empire State Building made her dizzy, and she held on to him as they hurried down.

Skating at the Rockefeller Center was a different story.

She managed, somehow, to persuade him to join her. It was mostly him clinging to her while she went full speed ahead like a ship cutting through the waves, catching him or his glasses whenever they came dangerously close to slipping and falling—all while enduring the curious and amused stares.

By the end of it, he was the one shaking, and not just from the experience.

"I didn't know you were so good at it," he muttered.

"Neither do I, actually," she laughed, taking off her skates, "I tried not to think about it too much and just enjoy the moment. Maybe that was the trick."

"Well...glad you enjoyed it, at least."

Soft, that smile. He had never seen it, yet there it was.

"Did you?"

Did he? He recalled screaming like a girl, more than he would care to admit—but then again, he smiled along anyway, didn't he?

It wasn't rocket science, really.

"Yeah, I did."

"We did," she corrected, and he nodded.

"We did."

"So, where next? I can do this all day."

She was almost bouncing, and he had no doubt she could. He found it...inspiring, that spirit.

So was knowing she was still entrusting herself to him.

"Well, first...did you see that? That, up there?"

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree—this year it was a 90 feet Norway spruce, from what he heard—decked in thousands of lights and baubles, stood proudly, a beacon of hope and cheer in a city where it could get so busy and dreary. For those who couldn't find it in themselves to be hopeful, the tree was their reminder. To him, it was, anyway.

"Hm? That tree...with lights? And people are standin' below. Yeah, but why?"

"Nothing. Just...hoping that you will feel the same way, I guess."

Hoping that she could bear witness to it next year and the year after and the year after that.

Hoping that she could stay.

And feel at home.

"About what, exactly? Don't talk in riddles, now, matey."

"About...the hope and cheer it represents. I guess."

"Are you sayin'...you want me to happy? Here? You could have just said so."

The way her lips pursed, the way she tapped her finger, the way the sides of her face flushed ever so slightly—he'll be damned if they weren't endearing her more to him.

"Is it wrong that I do?"

"Ha—haha! Matey, you are somethin' else. But...no. No, it ain't wrong. Never," she paused, and inhaled. "But that's only if I'm allowed to stay, ain't it?"

That was a reminder. Of their circumstances and the precarious position she was in.

His, too.

"I...let's just...hope for the best. And while we're here, let's make the most of it."

"Right. Right. So...where to next?"

There was that smile again. The soft one. And it was gone just as quickly.

Maybe she was just as worried about what could happen as he was. Because they didn't know.

At least, though, he knew where to go next.

"There is this place..."


After a rather brief impromptu visit to the Met, which she asked for and he obliged to, they found themselves sitting face to face in a luncheonette on the corner of 83rd Street and Lexington Avenue. There was noise, hustle, and bustle as staffers were made busy filling orders for late breakfasts and early lunches.

But they were there for the egg cream. The best in town. She was, at first, quizzical when she heard of the name. Then she was enamored by how the lad behind the counter prepare the beverage, enraptured as the swift hands worked the soda fountain. That method of preparation had fallen out of fashion long time ago, but here, it was kept alive as part of the charm. And charmed Royal Fortune was.

She toyed with the froth using her straw for a bit and giggled, face lighting up like a kid at a carnival.

"...So no eggs nor cream, eh? Well, as long as it's not alcoholic, I'll take any drink."

"...You know, for someone playing the part of a pirate to the hilt, I'm surprised you're not a bigger fan of rum."

"What can I say? They made me dizzy. Besides, Cap'n Roberts frowned on his crew drinking themselves silly. Need to keep 'em sharp and all."

"I see," he nodded and took a sip of his own drink, relishing the chocolatey sweetness. "I hope this one is more to your liking. Go on, try it."

So she did, and the ensuing squeal of delight was worth everything.

"Ahh. I can get used to this," she sighed, taking another sip.

"Yeah. Actually, when I was younger, it was a family tradition to order egg cream here every Friday night and talk about...just about anything we could think about. Laugh about it. Eventually, with my siblings moving away and me joining the Navy, not to mention my parents passing away, it just sort of, stopped. Even after being posted at the base, I just...never had the will to come here again. It was not the same."

For her part, she was empathetic, reaching over and patting his hand.

"...Matey, are you...alright?"

"Ah, um, sorry. Didn't mean to bring the mood down. Just wanted to say, this place means a lot to me. That's why I want to share it with you."

"So...we're making a memory here?"

"Yeah. Yes, we are."

"I see. And that's important, hm?"

"Yeah."

"Because...there's a chance that we might not see each other again?"

There was no point in denying the truth, and there was no point in sugarcoating it either.

"Yeah."

"...Right. That's why you were so adamant that I enjoy myself."

"Sorry. I'm not trying to spoil the mood. I just...want you to remember that."

"Like that candor, I do. Hah. Matey, don't you worry your pretty head. I'll never forget it."

"Thanks. Same here."

Heaving a sigh, she rested her chin on her palm and gave him a long, hard look.

"What is it?"

"Y'know, all this time, I've never bothered to learn anything 'bout ya. Like, why do you have a name that fancy? What do you like? What do you dislike? Stuff like that. It ain't fair, is it?"

"Err, yeah. It's...not a problem, really."

"Oh, it is. I've told you quite a bit of myself. Now, it's your turn. I want to know."

She wanted to know. About him. It had never occurred to him that it was something she was interested in.

"I guess...I'll just start with my name since you mentioned it. Yeah, it's a fancy one, all right. Not a few people in the Navy have asked me if I was named after the guy. You know, the actual John Paul Jones. Father of the American Navy. Asked me if I ever feel burdened because when your parents named you after a naval hero of that caliber, then surely they must be expecting a lot from you. Then I told them, no, I was named after John Paul Jones the musician. You know, Led Zeppelin. The looks on their faces were priceless. Anyway, yeah. It's my name. Most people close to me would just call me JP, and that's fine."

"Led...what?"

The look on her face was priceless, too. Truly a woman out of time, she was.

"Led Zeppelin. The music group. Stairway to Heaven and all that. Maybe I could lend you my cassette collection after this. Listen for yourself."

"Oooh. Sure. Why not?"

"I can't promise you'll like it, though."

"Well, I'm curious. All my life, I've only known sea shanties and concertina pieces. Now, there's all this new sound around. It's amazing."

"Okay, and...uh, what else? Hobbies? Nothing much, I'm afraid. In my free time, I'd either go fishing or run around the base. Sometimes, I'd tinker with computers or read nonfiction. My favorite food...anything that's not ration packs. My favorite drink...well, this, for one. As for what I like and dislike, well, I'll just cut to the chase. I like adventure. I like learning, and I like sharing what I've learned. I'm open-minded and accepting, but not when people are deliberately antagonistic or obtuse. I can be a workaholic and perfectionist at times. Hell, some told me I tried too hard, and maybe that's true. I'm not really sure. And maybe sometimes I'm too uptight, too. I guess that's all. I'm kind of boring. Sorry."

Tapping on the wooden table, she seemed to ponder. It took her some time.

"Boring is fine. Being ordinary, normal, whatever you wanna call it, that's fine, too. It's fine!"

"Um, thanks?"

"Aye, aye. Thanks for openin' up, matey. It's hard, isn't it?"

"Honestly, not really. I'm just...worried about what you might think, that's all."

"Hehe. Oh, matey. Don't fret about it."

"Right. I won't."

"So. I suppose we should be going. It's gettin' dark soon, and we should be gettin' back, shouldn't we?"

"Yeah. Yeah, we should."


It was getting late, and the sun was starting to dip below the horizon, painting the sky in orange and gold.

They stopped for a while at Times Square, the neon glow illuminating her features as she looked up and around. Everything else—people, cars, traffic, honks, chatter—seemed to blur and become insignificant details.

He didn't need to ask her what she was thinking.

She was taking in the sight of a modern world she was unfamiliar with.

"Beautiful."

"Yeah. It is. It truly is."

It wasn't the lights and signs.

And she knew.

"We should get going."

"Aye. Aye, that we should."

Passing Broadway again, they reached their last destination and the ever-present staple of any trip to the city. But to him, the significance goes a little deeper.

"Oooh. Central Park?"

"It's a nice day for a stroll, wouldn't you say?"

"Yeah. Yeah, sure would."

He offered his hand, and she took it, and together, they walked in.

"...It was another family tradition to go here on weekends. My older brother and sister would always argue about what to visit first. The former likes the zoo, and the latter likes the pool. Dad would always make me decide between the two, and I'd usually favor whoever treated me the nicest during the week."

"Aha. Sounds like a lovely bunch. I kinda wish I had a brother or sister. I mean, even many of my fellow KANSENs have sisters. I don't even know how I came to be."

The flash of emotion, the flinch—they were unmistakable. But he decided not to press.

"I don't know if it's going to make you any better, but I have this theory after a bit of reading. Basically, it's a dormant wisdom cube, unaccounted for, coming into contact with your ship's...remains, eventually taking all the memories and manifesting them as...you. It's just a theory, though. Sorry. Maybe I shouldn't—yeah. But...I also believe in defining ourselves through what we do, not how we're made. Or born. Or however you want to put it. And for what it's worth, you're a great person. That's not an empty compliment."

She paused and then turned to face him, the smile slowly creeping across her lips.

"Matey, this is no good...no good at all. Y'know, now, I'm really hoping I could stay. You've gone and made me a wee soft in the head."

If only she knew, he mused as the sting of the cold weather nipping at him dissipated, powerless against the heat rising from within. If only she knew.

"I've been hoping that for longer than you think."

"Hah! Aha. Hahahaha. You...you're a strange one, you are. But I'll tell ya one thing. It's been the best day ever. I don't wanna let it end. But we all know we should. You know the tale. When the clock strikes midnight, the spell is broken, the party's over. Everythin's gone back to how it used to be."

"But that's not the end of the story, is it? As you said before...it's not over until it's over."

"Oh, bugger. Come here, ya."

He felt the wind knocked out of him as her arms pulled him closer. He struggled to breathe, but her hold was firm.

"...Just wanted to do this. That's all."

"I...guess it's fine."

"You guess, matey? Well, alright."

But she didn't let go, and he found himself returning the hug, his chin resting atop her head. Her hair still had the scent of the sea. Her tentacle brushed against the skin of his palm, gentle like lazy waves and reassuring, like the sun and sand on a beach.

The way she held onto him, the way she nestled against his chest, the way she exhaled against his neck.

The feeling of being treasured.

Presumptuous, perhaps.

But there was no denying it was the best he had in a while.

After this, it was back to base.

And back to reality.

And back to the uncertainty.

...Perhaps it's best to learn to let go.

And that was what he did.

"Matey...?"

Hurt. She sounded hurt.

If things go right, he could always make it up to her, however.

Yet if they don't...

"There's...more to see. So...we can't stop now, can we?"

"...Aye. You're right. Lead the way."

He did.

He led her along the Mall, on pavements bathed in orange light with a canopy of trees overhead.

He led her across Bow Bridge and over the frozen lake.

He led her past Bethesda Terrace and through the snow-laden fields.

Past Alice, Bolívar, Burns, Hamilton, Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare, Columbus, and all those immortalized in bronze, stone, and metal.

Carousel ride, the flowers of Shakespeare Garden, the Chess and Checkers House.

Like a dance, steps were light, the distance nonexistent.

Like a dance, she was at the center, the object of his attention, his focus.

And it was returned.

They stopped near Belvedere Castle, looking out towards the skyline in the distance, the lights mingling with the stars hanging on a clear evening.

"Ooh, beautiful. Like, a hoard of jewels. Mm, makes me want to keep them for myself."

He laughed and then joined her.

"But it's time, isn't it? To go."

"...Yeah."

"Matey, don't be sad. Please. Look, if things don't turn out the way you'd like them to, I won't forget ya. I'll never forget ya."

"And I, you. But...don't say that, please."

"Alright. But...let's be real. We've no way of knowin'. But at least, we got somethin' out of all this, right? Sheesh, aren't I a lucky one?"

"You're making it hard. It's hard for me. I don't want to leave."

"Then, don't. Not yet."

"..."

"Not yet. Let's have one last dance."

"...Yeah. Sure. Yeah."

So, they did.

On a cold winter night, in the quiet, in the stillness.

Sure and steady, simple and slow.

Thus the end of their day, but, as he wanted to believe, not the end of the story.


The coming days were hectic, and the pace of work did not abate in the slightest.

He was determined to make the best of what he could, however.

To make the most of what he could.

And soon, he found himself being called to the Admiral's office once more.

Only she was in there, too, this time.

"Sit down, Lieutenant."

"Aye, aye, sir."

"Command has reviewed your report, which, if I may commend, is a very thorough one. She," he turned to Royal Fortune, who looked a little sheepish, "is a very interesting case. Well, the people we sent to interview her agreed she's not exactly the most disciplined nor conventional, corroborating your observation, but also pointed out that she is, in fact, quite intelligent. Driven. Resourceful. Everything you said. Quite a few, the Germans, in particular, were still concerned, however, of her unclear origins. They had a point."

"Sir?"

He thought his heart felt like it was sinking.

"But I've made the case. We're short on hands, and she's a capable one. And I also especially pointed out that the Germans shouldn't be one to talk, considering what they are basing their KANSEN's riggings on. I wish you could see their faces when I said that. Priceless. And I had the pleasure of watching their commander cough up a storm. It's no secret he's been chain-smoking. Ah, anyway. Command has given the green light. On a provisional basis, of course, but at least she will be treated as one of ours."

"Sir...do you mean—"

"I believe I have said it loud and clear, Lieutenant. Royal Fortune is here to stay. I hope she will not disappoint."

He almost leaped from his seat, but he remembered his composure, and so he only got up.

"Sir, thank you."

"Aye, thank you, Admiral, sir!"

"Hm. You two may go, then."

Royal Fortune's salute was sloppy but hardly surprising. He couldn't care less, though. The Admiral shook his head, but that was the extent of his reaction.

"Alright! Let's go, matey! I need you to show me around again!"

"Of course."

"Oh, wait, Lieutenant, a word with you, please."

"Sir?"

"Go on ahead, Royal Fortune. Wait outside, if you will."

"Aye, sir!"

The door closed, and he stood still as the Admiral walked over and leaned on his desk, telling him this would be an informal talk, at least.

"Son, I hope you will do the right thing."

"Sir, yes, sir. I will."

"Because I know."

"A-about what, sir?"

"You know what I'm talking about."

"..."

"Son, you know the rules. As do I. Now, I'd hate if you two got into trouble because of that."

"I understand...sir."

"So, a word of advice, if I may—don't get caught. That's all."

"Sir...?!"

"I'd be a hypocrite if I said I haven't broken that rule, son. After all, that's how I met my wife. We played the dangerous game, but it was all worth it. Now, shoo. Don't keep her waiting—and remember, keep out of trouble. I'm not going to cover your asses all the time."

The grin broke.

"Aye, sir. I will, and I won't, sir. Thank you, sir."

"I'll see you in the next debriefing, Lieutenant. Dismissed."

The Admiral would certainly have no need to ask about his sudden spring or why he rushed out the door.

He would already know the answer.

As she greeted him, she was puzzled.

"What's got you so chipper all of a sudden, matey?"

"Ah, I'm just happy. Very, very happy."

"Happy. I like the sound of that. So, ready for the rest of the tour?"

"You bet. And you might want to grab some food. There's a lot to see."

"Aye. Aye, there is."

"Also, um, welcome, Royal Fortune. To Azur Lane."

"Happy to be here. And before I forget, I think we can forget about the whole favor thing, eh?"

"Are you sure...? I promised, after all."

"Actually, I was just messin' with ya at that time, matey."

"Heh. I see. Alright."

"Besides, matey, you have given me somethin' more precious. You gave me the chance to see what this world is. To learn about what we're fightin' for. For that, I'm thankful. More than anythin'."

"You're welcome."

"Now, then. What was that 'bout food?"

"I'll show you. And I'm paying, by the way."

"Hehe. Sure."

"And...well, once we're free again, I want to show you more of the world."

"Aye. Aye, we will. All the places we'll go. Everywhere."

"Yes. Together."

Together was a given; their story, after all, was far from over.