Azur Lane: Three Strikes

by Nighthawk6595

The Lighthouse War has ended, but what happens when Osea's Ace pilot chases after an unknown bogey and ends up in a new world? This one being of war and Shipgirls. A new adventure for Three Strikes has begun. (Rated T...for now)

21. Rescue at Midway

Last time, the three Iron Blood ships had discovered a pod containing the Osean pilot, Captain Alvin H. Davenport otherwise known as Chopper. Upon realizing that they have seen too much, they decide to leave Red Axis with Chopper.

The four infiltrated an airbase, stole an Orgoi and escaped. But their escape didn't go unnoticed as a pursuit team was sent out.

With the Leasath Freighter, Amelia told the Fortune Hunters about the XFA-33 Fenrir and how it coincides with Navarro's other plans.

With the Three Strikes, a combat exercise was conducted with the Top Gun team along with an SDF pilot who recently transferred to the base. Each pilot showed promise, but Hangman needed an ego check.

But afterwards, Admiral Williams approved of Trigger's plan to attack Kyoten while also warning him of Red Axis going after the Fortune Hunters and the Orgoi flashing Osean IFF, heading for Midway Atoll.

So after assembling the LRSSG, Trigger picked the planes and weaponry as he gave the order to launch.

And here's where we start…

Let's dive right in.

---

Sakura Tree Path, Kyoten

The island of Kyoten has been busy since Bismarck announced Kaga's involvement in interfering with Crimson's mission - marking her as a traitor. But also took notice that Kaga had fled the island with the Mutsuki sisters, no doubt that she knew what she was doing when she saved the Three Strikes. But aside from Kaga and the destroyers fleeing the island, the message reached Kyoten of the betrayal of Z1, Nürnberg and Prinz Heinrich who discovered something that they were not supposed to know.

But walking along the Sakura tree path, Akagi had been torn from Kaga's betrayal. But she knew very well why Kaga betrayed Red Axis, she did it for Trigger - the object of their affection. Akagi did appreciate that her dear sister saved Trigger from Crimson 1 that day. But to turn her back on Red Axis meant that Kaga knew something that she didn't know.

As she approached Amagi's shrine with the statue of her sister with the umbrella in its hands standing in the middle of the shrine. As Akagi sat on her knees in front of her sister's statue, she said,

"It appears that Kaga decided to follow her heart. She's turned her back on Red Axis and Project Orochi to be with Trigger. Truthfully I wish to be in her position as well because I would finally have the Ace of Azur Lane in my tails."

She paused for a moment and said, "I started this war for you, I had Project Orochi approved for you and I wanted it to deploy to bring you back. But after Kaga left, is it really the right thing to use the Orochi?"

She brought up the datapad with Trigger's face on it as she felt her body heat up upon gazing at the photo,

"Aside from it, my body has heated up whenever I look back to that moment when we first met on the battlefield. My tails twitch whenever he is mentioned and my nether regions leak whenever I think about him. It's something that I have never displayed to any human, especially around December. Sister Amagi, I truly believe that the actions of Three Strikes has led to my love for him and Kaga abandoning Red Axis to be with him. I also wish for her safety as well as the little girls at her side because I feel conflicted about it. Sister Amagi…what should I do?"

As Akagi spoke with her sister's statue, her spirit was listening in as she was unaware of Amagi's presence. She knew that she couldn't appear before her and risk being discovered. But she could give various signs to reply to her little sister's wishes.

As Akagi's eyes were closed, Amagi sprang into action as the spirit carved three kanji symbols into the statue where the heart should be.

As Akagi opened her eyes, she spotted the three kanji symbols carved into the heart as she realized,

"Follow Three Strikes…"

But before she could comprehend it, the spirit discreetly carved two more kanji symbols near where her sister was kneeling as Akagi looked down and recognized the symbols,

"Destroy Project? Is this what I should do…destroy the means of bringing you back? But then again…it would act as a contingency that the Observer doesn't know about. If I should destroy the Orochi ship, I may have to…even if it means that I will never see you again."

As she got up to leave, she heard an ethereal whisper in the wind as it said,

"If you only knew…"

She was curious as to where it came from since it sounded almost like Amagi. The carrier had a feeling that her separation from Kaga would make an impact on her. But her desire to bring Amagi back was the reason she started this war, but Three Strikes had been the deciding factor in many battles.

But now as she desires the Ace, Kaga deserting Red Axis and now hearing Amagi's voice, something didn't seem right. But she kept walking back towards the Sakura Tree path back to the base.

Amagi watched her sister depart as she figured that Akagi had begun to question her choices as well as the actions that she took. But still, the Siren's hold on her was still strong - that's why Amagi left those answers on her shrine for Akagi.

Amagi could convince her sister from the shadows to enact the plan to scuttle the Orochi ship. But she also knew that Trigger would come to this island to damage the superweapon. In the meantime, her work was done, so she left Kyoten to return to Trigger.

---

Midway Atoll

1030 hrs

The beautiful island of Midway Atoll was once the site of the decisive battle that turned the tide of the Pacific War. It's been a major Eagle Union base ever since and as its name implies - it's midway between Hawaii and the Sakura Islands.

As for the twelve aircraft approaching the island, it will be marked as their area of operation.

The twelve aircraft are Strider and Cyclops Squadron, the two fighter squadrons of the LRSSG. They were flying in the formation that was used in Operation Siren's Song when they destroyed the Erusean fleet at Snider's Top. Cyclops Squadron consists of four F-15Cs, a YF-23 and an F-35C while Strider Squadron consists of a CFA-44, SU-33, a Typhoon, a MiG-23, an F-22 and an SU-57.

As the squadrons flew above, the kansen on the water followed as well. The Main Fleet was Enterprise, Hornet, Ark Royal, Shinano, Bataan, New Jersey, Musashi and Hood while the Vanguard Fleet was Helena, St. Louis, Belfast, Edinburgh, Javelin, Laffey, Ayanami and Z23.

As the force approached Midway Atoll, Trigger contacted his forces,

"All planes and ships listen up, we've received a report that a privateer unit called the Fortune Hunters has captured a Non-Gründer Freighter and is heading for Midway to rendezvous with defectors of Red Axis. The defectors are reported to be the Mutsuki-Class Destroyers and leading them is Kaga."

This brought some surprise to the kansen, including Ayanami since Kaga was her CO in her infiltration mission in Azur Lane before the surprise attack. Kaga shocked her unconscious at the ruins when the destroyer tried to surrender and the carrier fought with Trigger. Javelin and Laffey remembered Kaga because after Trigger shot her, he treated her wound. As for Amagi, who had returned from Kyoten, was currently sitting on the wing of the CFA-44 as she knew that Kaga would come to the decision to defect after she expressed her desire to marry the Ace.

Trigger continued, "However, Red Axis has detected their movements and are heading towards the Fortune Hunters. Our mission is to provide cover for the Kennedy, a JFK-Class aircraft carrier that the privateers have as their base, the freighter and the defectors. Furthermore, an Orgoi was detected leaving the Philippines and is currently heading for Midway. The odd thing about it was that it's flashing Osean IFF."

That surprised the Osean pilots since they were the only Osean pilots who were in this world. The possibility that there could be more out there was surprising. But Count asked,

"Could this be a trap like at Waiapolo?"

That was a possibility because Trigger, Count and Tabloid faced off against F/A-18 UAVs spoofing Osean markings and IFF. Trigger stated,

"If it is a trap, then we destroy the Orgoi, but we won't know unless we confirm its identification. So if the Orgoi enters the AO, we need to contact it. request to confirm its identity and hope for the best."

After that was done, a transmission from the Atoll was received,

"Allied Aircraft and Kansen, this is Midway, we were told to expect your arrival. The Fortune Hunters are to the west of here and are currently under fire from Siren ships and hostile kansen. Our runway is also open to you, so you can land for supplies, fuel and repairs."

AWACS Long Caster spoke, "Midway, this is Long Caster, Airborne Warning And Control System for the LRSSG, we read you and thanks for having the runway open."

AWACS Magic chimed in, "There are three operation zones: Zone A has the privateer carrier under fire from hostile aircraft, Zone B has the freighter under attack from Siren ships looking to reclaim the ship and Zone C has Kaga and the Mutsuki destroyers under attack from enemy kansen. The Kennedy and the freighter were separated due to the attack, but you need to make sure that all three of them rendezvous."

Trigger acknowledged this as he said, "Copy that, Magic. Strider and Cyclops will split into groups of four and cover these objectives. All destroyers and cruisers, commence operation, split into small fleets and take out any enemy threatening our allies. All carriers, launch your planes and Battleships, get within range and unleash hell on the siren capital ships."

A series of wilcos were heard over the radio as Long Caster reminded the new additions to Cyclops Squadron,

"Orishina and Maverick, your callsigns are Cyclops 5 and Cyclops 6, you will be part of Cyclops Squadron."

The two acknowledged this as Strider and Cyclops jettisoned their drop tanks, split into three groups of four and went to each Operation Zone and the HUDs of every pilot helmet stated 'Mission Start.'

That's when he heard the voice of his WSO, "Trigger, this is Prez, I'll be monitoring your progress aboard the Osean AWACS. I can provide you with details of your targets and your missile tracking."

The Ace stated, "Just like how you monitored the Crown's progress when he used single-seat jets."

"Exactly and remember there's still two of you in that plane."

That was true since Amagi's spirit was bound to him, so there were two of them in the CFA-44. It was at this point that Trigger, Count, Fencer and Skald went to cover the Kennedy as the Fortune Hunters were already engaging the siren planes.

Jaeger, Hüxian, Tailor and Lanza went to cover the Leasath Freighter and protect it from the siren ships with Royal Fortune already protecting the freighter.

Tabloid, High Roller, Orishina and Maverick went to support Kaga and the destroyers as the allied kansen joined in with the support.

As the fight commenced, the old JFK-Class Aircraft Carrier was taking evasive action against the siren planes attempting to strafe her. But they were shot out of the sky via a missile from an A-4 Skyhawk and an FJ-4 Fury. Nathan sighed,

"Splash one siren jet for both of us."

Betty, flying her A-4 stated, "But we're not outta the woods yet, Boss. We've still got a lot more bandits to shoot down."

Tex sighed as she downed two more planes in her F-8 Crusader, "But what really matters is to make sure that we rejoin the freighter and rendezvous with Kaga. But Red Axis isn't going to make things easy for us."

The leader agreed since the enemy had detected their movements and is looking to stop this rendezvous. The fact that they are so close to Midway felt surreal since they wouldn't expect to be in a real battle since the Fortune Hunters were deployed for raids and harassment operations. But then again - this was war and they have to fight this war.

That wasn't until Big John, the carrier's helmsman spoke,

"Nathan, I have picked up a new group of signals. IFF confirms there are Allied fighters coming our way. Aircraft type: F-15C, SU-33 and an Unknown Fighter."

Nathan shifted his focus as he turned his plane to where the fighters were coming from as he noticed the four planes, two F-15Cs, one SU-33 and an advanced fighter jet that he'd never seen before. He contacted the fighters,

"Allied fighters, this is Nathan Zachary, callsign: FH-01, are you the reinforcements that we were informed about?"

The lead plane announced, "FH-01, this is Trigger, callsign: Strider 1 of Azur Lane, we're here to help you guys make the rendezvous."

The CFA-44 pulled up to the FJ-4 as Nathan was impressed by the kite-shaped wings and thrust-vectoring flaps which reminded him of that demonstrator aircraft. But when he looked at the tail of the aircraft, his eyes widened at what he saw.

Three. Scratches.

Nathan couldn't believe it, he heard about the Three Strikes, but when they requested reinforcements, he had no idea that they would send Azur Lane's Ace to pull their asses out of the fire. Nathan asked,

"Wait…you're the Ace?!"

Trigger chuckled, "I am and we're here to help you guys out."

Nathan stated, "We could use all the help we can get. Our carrier is under attack by Red Axis aircraft, Siren Jets, Vals, Kates and Stukas are all ganging up on our carrier."

Betty chimed in, "And we only have three aircraft going up against them."

Trigger stated, "Add us into the mix and you have seven aircraft. We're going to help you with these attack planes."

Nathan agreed, "We appreciate the help, Strider 1."

"Acknowledged, Zachary. My group consists of myself along with Strider 2 Count, Cyclops 1 Fencer and Cyclops 2 Skald. We have other groups of Strider and Cyclops Squadrons providing support for the others trying to make the rendezvous."

"Glad to see you split your teams up to cover the rest of the combat area."

Trigger pointed out, "We know how urgent this rendezvous is, but right now we have a job to do. Fortune Hunters, before we continue, set up a datalink with the AWACS Magic and AWACS Long Caster."

The privateers agreed with the Osean as the three aircraft and their carrier as they linked with the two AWACS aircraft in the AO. After a while, Magic chimed in,

"FH-01, this is Magic, we have received the datalink."

Nathan stated, "We read you loud and clear, Magic."

The Osean AWACS chimed in, "This is Long Caster, Airborne Warning and Control System for the Long Range Strategic Strike Group, datalink is confirmed, Zachary."

"We haven't worked with a pair of AWACS since the Ragin' Cajun operation."

Magic stated, "I was there with the AWACS Spirit Eye when you destroyed Thibodeaux's base and uncovered the Cajuns' connection to a Federation Remnant."

Nathan fondly remembers punching the gang leader off the dock as the Navy SEALS took over, but he can have time to reminisce after Big John is safe as Trigger spoke,

"You're going to have to tell my squadron that story sometime, but we still have a mission to do."

Both leaders agreed as the four Osean aircraft split up and engaged the siren fighters while protecting the Kennedy. Each fighter had a role to play in this operation as Nathan's Fury fired a missile at a siren jet, blowing it out of the skies while Trigger was being pursued by two siren jets firing their purple pulse lasers at him. But that's when the Ace pulled up towards the sky and hit the air brakes as the fighter did a loop over the enemy aircraft as he was now on their tails.

He gunned his engines as he got within gun range as he said, "If there were real pilots in these things, they would be freaking out."

He squeezed the trigger as the dual machine guns spun up and fired a twin burst of lead into each of the enemy aircraft, causing them to explode.

Count was providing cover for the carrier as the ship's AA systems and CIWS looked to shoot down any enemy aircraft as well as missiles from the siren jets. But it's the dive bombers and torpedo bombers that threaten the carrier.

Strider 2 went after the planes carrying bombs and torpedoes as he was assisted by Betty and Tex as the A-4 pilot said,

"You must be Count, I'm Betty, FH-02 and the woman in the Crusader is Tex, FH-03, we're mostly covering Big John since he's pulling some hard turns to evade. We need to take the heat off him."

Count agreed, "What opposition are we looking at that would threaten the carrier?"

Tex noted, "We have Vals, Kates and Stukas trying to hit the carrier. But there's another wave of siren bombers heading our way."

Count had an idea, "Let's split up, you two get the ones carrying bombs and I'll get the torpedo planes."

The Fortune Hunters liked the idea, but Betty noted, "But there's still the threat of the escort aircraft that might try to take a shot at the carrier, the CIWS would intercept any missiles fired, but they can't intercept a bomb run."

At that point, the two F-15Cs joined in the defense as Fencer chimed in, "Then destroying the heavy bombers are a priority."

Betty knew this and figured, "You're the Cyclops guys, right?"

"I'm Fencer, Cyclops 1 and my wingman is Skald, Cyclops 2."

Tex spoke, "Nice to meet you boys, we could use your help in destroying these seemingly endless siren aircraft."

Count figured, "There's probably a carrier nearby launching the jets and my plane is equipped Anti-Ship Missiles."

Betty realized, "If you're packing Anti-Ship Missiles, you can get within range of the enemy carrier and sink it. But there's still the threat of those prop planes sent up by hostile shipgirls."

Long Caster chimed in, "Fortune Hunters, this is Long Caster, you and Strider 2 will deal with the dive and torpedo bombers while Cyclops 1 and 2 go after any siren heavy bombers heading for the carrier."

Betty stated, "Read you loud and clear, Long Caster."

Tex spoke, "Boss and Three Strikes are going to take care of the escort fighters while we get the bombers."

Count spoke to the AWACS, "Long Caster, keep your eyes open for that siren aircraft carrier."

The AWACS acknowledged this as new blips appeared on radar, "We'll look for the carrier, but in the meantime, we've picked up more bombers at vector 245."

At that point, the Fortune Hunters along with Strider and Cyclops went to work.

---

Meanwhile at Operation Zone B, the Leasath freighter was being pursued by various siren vessels. No doubt looking to take the ship back as they were looking to surround the transport if not for the tentacles from Royal Fortune dragging the ships into the abyss.

On the bridge, Amelia was with the crews from the Fortune Hunters as the helmsman took evasive action in order to keep the Sirens from surrounding them. After they were separated from the carrier, they had to work on reaching the rendezvous point with the kansen covering them. The scientist was at the communication terminal as she heard the sound of fighting all across the radio. But she heard new voices identifying as AWACS meaning that air support is in the area.

She turned to the bridge crew, "We may have friendly reinforcements with air support inbound."

The helmsman nodded and said, "We should let Royal Fortune know since she's been sinking ships ever since we were separated from the carrier."

The scientist nodded as she contacted the pirate kansen's radio, "Royal Fortune, come in."

The pirate kansen spoke, "I'm a little busy feeding these scallywags to the sharks. But what is up?"

"We have allied reinforcements inbound, both planes and kansen."

"Bout ready to pass the baton myself."

The scientist soon changed frequency to contact the AWACS,

"To allied aircraft, this is Dr. Amelia Sanchez of the Leasath Freighter, Dannern, are you the reinforcements?"

"This is Long Caster, Airborne Warning and Control System for the Osean Long Range Strategic Strike Group, Doctor, we have two fighter squadrons and a fleet of shipgirls splitting off to assist in the rendezvous."

The scientist was surprised by the identification of the AWACS - it was Osean, but she also curious about the pilot with the three strikes as she asked,

"Then that pilot that I have heard about is here, too?"

"Strider 1 is currently assisting the Fortune Hunters with covering their carrier. We have Striders 3 and 4 along with Cyclops 3 and 4 to cover your ship."

A new voice spoke, "Dannern, this is Battleship Hood, Royal and Union Carriers Ark Royal and Hornet have launched a wave of Swordfish, Dauntless and B-25 bombers to sink the siren ships."

Another voice spoke, "This is Battleship New Jersey, Cyclops and Strider Squadrons will also act as spotters for our guns. We'll take out the siren ships that might pursue you."

Amelia said, "That's a relief, we could use the help making the rendezvous."

As she finished, the helmsman asked, "Hood? As in the Pride of the Royal Navy?"

The scientist was curious, "She's famous?"

"Her historical self was the face of the Royal Navy and during the Battle of the Denmark Straits, she went up against Battleship Bismarck, unfortunately she was taken a lucky hit and sunk. Her sinking became a rallying cry for the Royal Navy to avenge her which led to the Navy hunting down and sinking the Bismarck."

Amelia realized, "I can see why she's famous."

When she looked out the window, she saw the destroyers Laffey and Javelin along with cruisers Edinburgh and Helena forming a defensive ring around the freighter. Royal Fortune's voice was heard over the radio,

"Azur Lane has formed a defensive ring around the freighter. It's nice to have backup, even from shipgirls who use conical shells instead of cannonballs."

That's when Helena's voice spoke, "It's actually surprising to see a Tempesta Shipgirl here."

"I was in it to stop the sirens and get lots of loot for it. But no doubt that the rest of Tempesta have heard of your commander - The Three Strikes."

The cruiser blushed but maintained her professionalism, "He has been the one to lead us through to ending this war. He may be assisting the allied carrier, but you will be able to see him in action when he's done."

The pirate kansen smirked, "I'm looking forward to it."

At that point, two F-15Cs, a Typhoon and MiG-23 were in visual range as Jaeger spoke,

"Cyclops 3 and 4, ready the PLSLs, you're going to go after the siren ships."

Tailor asked, "But what about you? Your aircraft are equipped for air-to-air."

Hüxian spoke, "We're going to establish air superiority over the freighter in case of siren aircraft."

Magic spoke, "Striders 3 and 4, we've picked up a siren aircraft carrier sending strikes down on the allied carrier, but Strider and Cyclops 1 and 2 are assisting the Fortune Hunters in covering the allied carrier while looking to sink the enemy carrier."

Jaeger figured, "No doubt that once we enter the fray, the carrier would send its own fighters to establish air superiority for their fleet as they recapture the freighter."

Hüxian contacted Helena, "Helena, your detachment and Cyclops are going to deal with the enemy fleet while Jaeger and I take out enemy aircraft."

Helena acknowledged this, "We got it, Strider 4. But be advised, we have an additional kansen on our side - a pirate shipgirl from Tempesta called Royal Fortune."

Lanza realized, "A pirate ship, are you kidding me?"

Tailor noticed the defensive ring around the freighter as he pointed out the two destroyers and two cruisers, but he noticed a fifth kansen on the water,

"I'm seeing her right now, she's definitely a pirate and from the looks of it, parts of her rigging show signs of her being a sailboat."

Lanza asked, "A sailboat?"

That's when they heard her voice on the radio, "Not just any old sailboat, I am a ship from the Golden Age of Piracy, flyboy."

Jaeger stated, "As long as she can sink enemy ships, she's fine in my book."

The pirate kansen stated, "I'm glad you agree and more help means less weight on my shoulders."

"Glad to help, but first we have a series of strike aircraft and Hornet's B-25 bombers looking to take out as many siren ships as possible. The bombers will go in first and we'll come in after them."

At that moment, the bombers launched from Hornet and Ark Royal went through first as the bombers dropped their payloads onto the enemy ships as the dive bombers and torpedo bombers did precision bombing and torpedo strikes.

As a result, the bombers destroyed the pursuing Rook-Class Battleships and Bishop-Class Heavy Cruisers while the dive and torpedo bombers sank the Pawn-Class Destroyers and Knight-Class Light Cruisers.

As the bombers dissipated, Magic made the analysis,

"The bombers have destroyed at least 30 percent of the pursuing siren fleet, but we detected activity from the siren aircraft carrier. A wave of siren fighters have split off from attacking the Kennedy and are heading your way. All planes and kansen intercept the enemy planes, sink the remaining enemy ships and protect the freighter."

Jaeger acknowledged this, "Copy that, Magic. Hüxian and I will fly to cover and establish air superiority over the freighter."

Tailor stated, "Lanza and I have our pulse lasers powered up and we're going to assist with sinking the remaining ships."

New Jersey's voice came on the radio, "Keep in mind, don't be afraid to request an artillery strike on the enemy ships, Hood and I will be standing by waiting for the signal."

The four planes spread out as the F-15s descended towards the ocean as they prepared to assist the allied kansen with protecting the freighter. Jaeger and Hüxian flew top cover above the freighter as they went to intercept the enemy fighters.

The pilots would notice that the Sirens weren't looking to damage the freighter, more to try and surround it. But Royal Fortune had her kraken tentacles hold three Pawns in place as a swarm of torpedoes from Javelin and Laffey struck the mass-produced ships and sank them while Helena and Edinburgh's guns sank a two Knights and a Bishop as Cyclops 3 and 4 used their pulse laser pods and destroy two Bishops and a three Pawns.

But there were also the Rooks that were looking to maneuver in a flanking position in order to block the freighter's path to the rendezvous point. That's when Jaeger contacted New Jersey and Hood,

"Strider 3 to Battleship Team Bravo, Hüxian and I are activating the TGTPs, we're going to be marking the Siren Battleships and transmit targeting data to you."

New Jersey replied, "We read you, Jaeger."

Hood added, "All turrets are loaded and ready to fire. It's up to you to do the terminal guidance."

The two pilots acknowledged this as they intercepted any incoming enemy aircraft while making their way to Rook Battleship duos Alpha and Bravo. Jaeger went over and locked his targeting pods onto Alpha while Hüxian locked onto Bravo as they held their positions for a little while as they received a transmission from the kansen,

"This is New Jersey, I got the targeting data and turrets are adjusting for firing!"

"This is Hood, data received, turrets adjusting."

Both battleships soon threw their right arm forward and yelled,

"FIRING FOR EFFECT!"

The two Osean pilots knew to clear the area since they broke off from the enemy battleships. As they broke off, a series of 16 and 15 inch shells soared through the skies and hit the enemy battleships as the 16 inch shells cut through various critical areas of Alpha while the 15 inch shells struck the main battery and magazine for Bravo.

Both siren battleship teams erupted in a series of explosions as the ships split in two due to the magazines igniting.

This caught the attention of the AWACS as Long Caster confirmed,

"Enemy Battleships sunk!"

Amelia spoke over the radio, "I saw the battleships explode, those ships would've blocked our path if they weren't destroyed."

That's when Royal Fortune spoke, "We are even supported by the Royal Navy's Pride and the Eagle Union's Black Dragon of the Seas."

New Jersey figured, "Even Tempesta knows about me."

"Who doesn't know the tale of the Black Dragon who literally sank an island? For the love of Bartholomew Roberts, it was told to me when I was reborn."

The pirate ship held two Pawns in her tentacles as a well-placed cannonball struck the critical systems, causing the two ships to explode while a nearby Knight was destroyed via pulse lasers from Cyclops 3.

Edinburgh was firing her guns at the remaining siren ships as she made an effort without stumbling in her movement. As she sank the ships, she thought about Belfast and each target she destroyed - she imagined the Head Maid by her side as they took on their enemies together. She knew that her sister was assigned to a separate Op Zone, but Edinburgh will always imagine Belfast by her side.

She fired her guns at two Pawns and one Bishop, surprisingly sinking all three ships as she said,

"Helena, I took down a few ships on my end."

The Eagle Union cruiser spoke, "Nice work, Edinburgh. Long Caster reports that the Siren fleet's threat level has lowered, thanks to the fire support of the allied battleships and allied aircraft. We should be able to hold off against them while the freighter makes the rendezvous."

The Royal Navy cruiser contacted the AWACS, "Edinburgh to Magic, what's the situation in Operation Zone C?"

The AWACS paused for a moment and stated, "Red Axis is trying to stop Kaga's fleet, but Strider and Cyclops Teams are providing air support. Red Axis opposition has Heavy Cruiser Atago, Destroyers Yuudachi, Yukikaze, Shigure, Battleships Fuso and Yamashiro and Light Carrier Junyou for the Sakura portion while the Iron Blood portion has Aircraft Carrier August von Parseval, Light Carrier Jade, Heavy Cruisers Deutschland, Admiral Graf Spee, Light Cruiser Regensburg and Battlecruiser Odin."

That's when they heard the lead ship of the Main Fleet C, "This is Musashi, I see the Red Axis Fleet and that's a lot of shipgirls just for a carrier and destroyers…something doesn't seem right."

Shinano spoke, "From what I can sense, this fleet was on a mission of their own before being diverted."

That's when Trigger's voice came on the radio, "You think it had something to do with that Rogue Orgoi?"

"If so, then they were pursuing it until they shifted their attention to Kaga."

It was at that point, the HUD displayed the message 'Operation A Complete' as Big John spoke,

"This is the Kennedy, the hostile aircraft carrier has been destroyed. We're clear!"

Count sighed, "That was tough trying to get the LASMs to lock on while those fighters were on me."

Trigger stated, "But we had your back as well as keeping the bombers away from the carrier."

Nathan's voice spoke, "Nice work, Strider. I see that the stories about you were true."

"It wasn't just us, Fencer and Skald did a lot of top cover for your carrier."

Skald spoke, "Overall we did it with a bang!"

Fencer decided, "Hopefully the carrier will make the rendezvous without any trouble."

Big John agreed as he also announced, "We'll make it to the rendezvous point and any carrier plane looking to resupply or make repairs, should land on the carrier. We'll make sure that you are ready to get back into the fight."

Trigger saw the carrier's image pop up on the radar screen as a viable option to land and resupply.

After that, he stated, "Thanks Big John, we'll be sure to utilize your carrier during the fight."

Long Caster soon spoke, "Strider 1, there are two more operation zones in the AO."

Prez stated, "Jaeger, Hüxian, Tailor and Lanza have the freighter, but they are coordinating well with the kansen while Tabloid, High Roller, Orishina and Maverick are supporting Kaga's fleet."

Trigger remembered hearing Magic's assessment of the Red Axis Kansen attacking Kaga and the destroyers. Each name had crossed his desk because he was delivered the files of every shipgirl on record and the fact that Kaga and the seven Mutsuki destroyers were outnumbered.

But that's when the HUD displayed the message, 'Operation B Complete' as he heard a message from the scientist,

"This is the Dannern, the enemy ships are breaking off. We're in the clear now."

Jaeger figured, "They must've realized that they no longer have air support after Count destroyed the carrier."

Tailor agreed, "Even drone ships know when a battle is lost, but what matters now is that the freighter is safe."

That's when Trigger had an idea, "Kaga's fleet is outnumbered and the rest of Strider and Cyclops Squadrons are providing support. But I believe it's time for both squadrons to form up and give Red Axis a real dose of firepower."

Prez asked, "A saturation attack?"

"Yes."

Long Caster had a feeling it would be like this as he stated,

"All units, we're going to be launching a saturation attack against the Red Axis fleet in Operation Zone C."

Magic chimed in, "All Azur Lane battleships, set your guns to target the enemy fleet."

Trigger ordered his shipgirls, "Get every single gun and aircraft set up towards that fleet and warn Kaga and the Mutsuki destroyers of the incoming attack."

Long Caster finished, "All planes of the LRSSG and the Fortune Hunters, form up on Trigger."

---

Red Axis Fleet

When Atago was assigned to this pursuit fleet, she was initially directed to track down a rogue Orgoi that was stolen from the Philippines by three Iron Blood defectors and an Osean pilot.

The heavy cruiser was sent the security footage of the Osean pilot, she noticed the patch showing a barking dog on his shoulder and the Osean flag. She heard from Takao that this human was found at the Siren Research Facility in San Isidro as another of Bismarck's secrets, but she also thought back to the pilot from the Orochi drydock that the Royal Navy rescued.

But aside from the pilot, they were assigned to join up with Junyou and Odin in order to track down the rogue airship. But they ended up losing sight of it after some time and were reassigned to link up with Fuso's pursuit force to track down Kaga and a group of destroyers who are looking to defect.

As the heavy cruiser evaded the planes that Kaga had launched, Atago heard the sound of jet noise as they realized that this was close to Midway, it was no doubt that they called reinforcements. That's when they were attacked by an F-22, SU-57, YF-23 and F-35C as several shipgirls arrived to protect Kaga and the destroyers. IFF confirmed that they were part of Strider and Cyclops Squadron - meaning Three Strikes is here.

What surprised Atago was that among the Azur Lane kansen was Ayanami, considering that before the battle at the ruins, the destroyer allowed Atago to embrace her while warning the heavy cruiser that she may end up doing something drastic. Atago initially thought that Ayanami was nervous about the possibility of a battle occurring until near the battle's end where she openly surrendered at the ruins upon meeting the pilot of the heavy cruiser's curiosity.

Atago had remembered that Trigger flirted with her and Takao albeit unintentionally, but still it made her cheeks go red.

But it wasn't until she noticed that the four planes and the Azur Lane forces were pulling back as Kaga and the destroyers got behind Ayanami and her fleet as Atago looked at Fuso,

"They're falling back!"

Fuso was curious since they were assigned to capture Kaga, "Strange, the mass produced ships and planes attacking the privateers and the freighter were destroyed. We are now outnumbered, but why would Azur Lane pull back?"

Odin, the Iron Blood PR Battlecruiser had a thought about it,

"How often do you see the enemy retreat for no reason?"

That's when August von Parseval took notice on her radar,

"Multiple hits on my radar, additional aircraft inbound!"

Yuudachi realized, "More fighter jets!?"

Atago had a feeling of what this was, "They're going to do an airstrike!"

The Red Axis fleet saw eleven aircraft form up with the other four, making it a total of fifteen aircraft with the lead plane being an advanced aircraft like the others that they've seen before. But Regensburg, the light cruiser who was originally assigned to pursue the Orgoi until being reassigned, had spotted something through her rigging.

The light cruiser was interesting because of Regina, her dragon rigging because she can send her rigging out and even mount it like a rider. When seeing the incoming aircraft, Regensburg's rigging had whispered to the kansen as she asked,

"Are you serious, Regina?"

The dragon rigging nodded as she told the others, "Regina got a good view of the lead plane, she spotted the scratches - it's him."

Shigure was surprised, "Three Strikes!?"

Yukikaze felt confident, "Good, I always wanted to face off against him. Let's see if this Ace can handle Yukikaze The Great!"

While that was going on, Yuudachi had actually changed her radio frequency and found the channel and listened,

"All planes, I'll lead the attack and once I release the ADMMs, give this attack everything you've got!"

The CFA-44 locked onto the kansen as multiple targeting reticles appeared. When the reticles went red, Prez stated,

"Good tone!"

Trigger took this as a signal, "Strider 1, DRIVE!!"

At that moment, multiple missiles erupted from top and underside of the craft as they soon sped towards the Red Axis fleet. This was followed by every aircraft launching their missiles as well as the battleship kansen firing their main guns directly at the enemy fleet.

Yuudachi turned to the others and shouted, "Missiles approaching at high speed! Multiple missiles approaching! Evade!"

The kansen began to maneuver as the missiles began striking their positions. Atago took a missile hit to her rigging as August Von Parseval's rigging was able to maneuver through the missiles and shells fired by the battleships. Regensburg had Regina fly her through the barrage, only to be hit by a high-speed missile. Fuso and Yamashiro had done their best to evade until they were struck by a missile.

The Deutschland sisters were caught by surprise as the missiles impacted their position as Deutschland was trying to use her AA Guns to try and counter the missiles, but her guns were no CIWS as the dark haired cruiser was struck by a missile while Admiral Graf Spee took a shell from a battleship.

The Iron Blood Light Carrier, Jade was doing her best to evade the missiles, but only one missile struck her. Historically, Jade and her sister, Elbe were meant to be refitted from ocean liners by the Nazi Regime, only to be canceled due to lack of interest. Upon rebirth as kansen, she and Elbe had memories of who they once were, but they also knew that they were meant to operate as carriers.

When Jade took that missile hit, she felt the aura of its origin point as she pulled back to assess the damage to her rigging.

The destroyers were smaller and faster, so they avoided the missiles better than their seniors. But that's when they spotted the CFA-44 flying low to the water as it flew towards the PR Iron Blood carrier.

August Von Parseval spotted the Nosferatu as she attempted to have her dragon rigging attack the fighter, only for it to fly past her as the blow back from the jet threw her skirt up in the process. But as she held her skirt down, she caught a glimpse of the infamous markings on the tail - three claw scratches. August realized that this was the pilot that she heard about from Takao and Atago.

It was no secret to her that both heavy cruisers have hidden feelings for him, even the more disciplined and serious of the Takao sisters had shouted about wanting to copulate with the Ace before the battle of the ruins. She remembered seeing the heavy cruiser get all flustered and red whenever her outburst was mentioned, although August did walk in on Takao making out with a datapad displaying the picture of the pilot in question like a lovestruck schoolgirl.

Aside from remembering Takao's humorous crush, the carrier soon noticed that the fighter's nose was facing towards her from an upside down position, having done a kulbit, seeing pilots back home pull this trick in their Typhoons. But she soon saw the twin machine guns spin up and shoot a brief stream of bullets at her, though she could definitely thank being a kansen for her tolerance to bullets, but her rigging had taken damage as the CFA-44 completed its maneuver and sped off.

She felt that damage and was amused as she said,

"Well played, Three Strikes."

As for Junyou, the saturation attack had done damage to her rigging as she took a high speed missile to her flight deck. The light carrier looked up and saw the CFA-44 with the three strikes as she felt her makeshift patch in her pocket as she caressed it because she had finally seen him and witnessed his awesome power.

But the light carrier noticed that he was circling Kaga's fleet as the white fox waved at the plane. Junyou remembered that Kaga originally wanted him dead until the battle of the ruins. The report read that Three Strikes was groundside, he shot Kaga, but healed her wound so she could make it back. Afterwards, she changed and she was acting strange, but she couldn't get a finger on what was going on.

As for Yukikaze, Yuudachi and Shigure, they saw their seniors take damage from the mass amount of missiles, but they were able to evade them due to their agility as destroyers. Yuudachi sighed,

"That was close!"

Shigure figured, "Usually the Goddess of Good Luck watches over me, but we all survived that attack."

Yukikaze stated, "Yukikaze The Great is always lucky and we made it through because I was here."

At that moment, stray bullets struck Yukikaze's rigging, damaging the torpedo launcher supports as she realized,

"How!?"

The CFA-44 flew over the destroyers as they saw the three strikes on the tail. The plane flew back to the fleet as the three destroyers spotted Ayanami standing in Kaga's defense.

To the three destroyers, seeing their friend - the Demon fighting alongside Azur Lane because of the inspiration of the Three Strikes. The three destroyers thought back to that discussion they had with her at the restaurant, how Ayanami felt safe when Three Strikes was around, why she painted the three scratches on the tail of her F-22 model and what made Three Strikes special.

Because not only did they see Ayanami, but the Iron Blood destroyer, Z23 was also standing in defense of Kaga and her fleet while the remaining fighter squadrons rejoined to form a CAP system - with Three Strikes leading them.

As for Fuso and Yamashiro, the two battleships took damage from the missiles as it was intended to be a saturation attack. The damage done to their rigging has reduced their combat capabilities in terms of AA defense. But Yamashiro was surprised,

"Big sister, my starboard cannon attach points were damaged by those missiles and it's actually scary that they were all launched at us like that."

Fuso stated as her port side rig points shuddered due to missile damage, "This is the point of a saturation attack, Yamashiro. Remember the NRF fleet stationed in the Black Sea during the Trinity Crisis?"

The younger catgirl remembered, "The Rebel Kara-Class Cruiser and Kirov-Class Battlecruiser used CIWS to destroy any launched missiles leading to Warwolf, Molot and Verona Squadrons to launch a saturation attack to knock out the guns."

"Exactly, Three Strikes had launched a saturation attack on us, just like that battle."

Fuso looked at her fleet and noticed that the saturation attack damaged the riggings of each shipgirl in her fleet, even the PR Battlecruiser Odin took at least two missile hits and her rigging was barely holding together. It was at this moment that the Battleship made a tactical decision,

"I'm issuing the order to retreat."

Deutschland heard this and said, "Are you crazy? I can still take down that lowly animal for damaging me!"

"That saturation attack left us too damaged to continue on our mission. Comply with the order and retreat."

The heavy cruiser was mad that she wouldn't be able to try and make Three Strikes her servant as she and Admiral Graf Spee complied with the order.

As they retreated, Regensburg paused and looked back at the enemy fleet, specifically the CFA-44 as she looked at her damaged rigging and said,

"Hard to believe that the wielder of the Darksteel Dragon was taken out by the Three Strikes."

Regina gave a soft roar as she figured, "I know, I call myself a dragon tamer, but that missile hit felt like he was trying to tame me…"

Regensburg looked closer at the circling aircraft as she spotted the three scratches as well as the emblem of the wolf with a gun in its mouth as she sighed,

"A gun-wielding wolf is looking to tame the dragon tamer or he may already have…I am doomed."

At this moment, hearts began to form in her eyes as she departed the area.

August heard the order to retreat and she understood why they had to retreat. They were at a huge disadvantage and the reinforcements were protecting Kaga, so it was now impossible to capture her with a damaged rigging.

But she thought back to that close encounter with Three Strikes. She had seen pilots do crazy tricks like that kulbit or the cobra. But she had seen him fly low to the water, pass her, pull a kulbit while opening fire on her during the trick as the plane righted itself, completing the kulbit.

When she first heard about him, she was curious as to how an insignificant pilot could give Red Axis a black eye. But seeing various recordings of battles in which Three Strikes was involved, including the declaration attack, there was one thing she would always notice - whenever he appeared, it was a sign of encouragement for Azur Lane as the shipgirls believed that they would make it as long as they stick with him which August found very interesting and now to see him in person - it was clear that Trigger was different,

"The Three Strikes of Azur Lane proved himself to be a guardian as his influence grew within Azur Lane and he has also earned my respect as an opponent for damaging me in battle."

But a thought soon came to her mind, "Maybe those bullets may become the chains that bind me to him - A worthy human for me."

As she departed, she looked back at the circling CFA-44 and said, "We will meet again on the battlefield soon, darling."

At that point, the Unhulde had hearts in her eyes as she and her fleet departed.

As for Trigger, he saw the fleet depart the area as the system send the message, 'Operation C Complete' as they heard Kaga's voice on the radio,

"This is Kaga to all allied forces, the pursuit forces are retreating."

That's when the AWACS spoke, "This is Long Caster, link up with the remaining forces and we'll guide you back to Oahu."

The white fox spoke, "We appreciate it, Long Caster."

As Strider Squadron formed up, Trigger spoke, "LRSSG, good job on the mission. As for the two additions to Cyclops Squadron, you two did well out there."

He assessed Maverick, "Mav, you flew in combat before and from what I can tell, you did a great job as a veteran pilot. There are some pilots I know who can't stand old timer pilots, but you are good in my book."

Mav spoke, "I may be an 'old timer' pilot, but I can still pull it off."

Trigger soon spoke to the SDF pilot, "Orishina, you did well and you were able to pull off quick maneuvers and keep up the pressure on the enemy. It's great to have you with the LRSSG."

The female pilot spoke, "Thank you for your support, Trigger."

Afterwards Trigger contacted the AWACS, "Magic and Long Caster, all parts of the fleet had made the rendezvous."

Long Caster stated, "Standby above the fleet until further orders."

The squadrons soon began to hold position above the fleet for further orders until Magic spoke up,

"Wait, there's a large blip on the radar at bearing 240 to the southwest."

Long Caster looked at the signal from Magic, "The signal's huge…it could be the Orgoi."

Trigger checked his radar and saw the signal on the southwest side of the AO flashing the blue IFF reading. He asked,

"Long Caster, check the IFF signal."

The Osean AWACS scanned the IFF reading of the signal as the operator confirmed,

"The IFF reads it as Osean."

Magic also confirmed, "IFF reads as Osean on my scanners as well."

Trigger, looking to ensure that the IFF was genuine and also concerned for the safety of the fleet, decided, "Count, Fencer, have the squadrons stay with the fleet. Cyclops 5, 6 and the Fortune Hunters are with me. We're going to fly out to visually identify the Orgoi, but if you're still equipped for air-to-sea, land and rearm with air-to-air missiles."

He soon contacted kansen, "Enty, I need you and the carriers to add additional aircraft to the CAP system. New Jersey, Hood and Musashi, position yourselves around the Kennedy and the Dannern and get your anti-air guns ready. As for Helena, St. Louis, Belfast, Edinburgh and the destroyers, head for the outer edges of the fleet and get your AA guns ready. It's not guaranteed, but it's only precautionary."

The shipgirls understood that you can never know what happens on the battlefield. So they prepared for anti-air combat while the Fortune Hunters returned to the Kennedy to rearm their planes as Maverick landed afterwards and swapped out his SOD launchers with 4AAMS. After resupply, the aircraft soon formed up on the CFA-44 as they flew out to investigate.

As they were en route, Orishina asked, "Strider 1, you said that this was an Orgoi?"

The Osean stated, "I'm sure since I mentioned it in the briefing."

"Should we also be concerned if it's a trap?"

Trigger knew that possibility as he said, "That's why we're going to confirm its identification. If it's an ally, then we escort it. But if it's not, we need to destroy it."

Maverick chimed in, "I've read about three Orgoi ships attacking Midway in order to silence the PMC force who knew about Olivieri's Golden Axe Plan."

Prez spoke, "Don't worry, Mav. I told Trigger about that."

The Osean Ace spoke, "They wanted to silence the M42 Squadron about the G.A.P. and those Orgoi were there to bomb them."

Mav understood this as he said, "Just keep on your toes when we approach it, those aircraft have quite the defense system."

Betty chimed in, "Well, he did shoot one down over Wake Island, Mav. So he knows about its air-to-air guns and missiles which my Skyhawk nearly lost a wing when the Boss and I were protecting the island of Guam from an Orgoi."

Nathan spoke, "We were just lucky that it wasn't a Spiridus. If Red Axis ended up building one of those things, then we'd be in a lot of trouble."

Tex figured, "Luckily there were only two Spiridus ships, both were downed by the Red Scorpion, the first was in London while the second was at Lake Tahoe."

Trigger knew the story and stated, "It's no Spiridus, but we still can't let our guard down especially if an Orgoi is flashing Osean IFF."

That's when they were approaching the contact point as they saw the aerial warship approaching them at high speed. He stated,

"Approaching contact point, all planes, stay alert."

The HUD registered the blue 'Ally' reticle on the Orgoi as he sent the request,

"This is a message to the pilot of the Airborne Aircraft Carrier, Orgoi. This is Strider 1 of the 124th Tactical Fighter Squadron. You are currently flashing an Osean Identify Friend/Foe system aboard your craft. You have also entered an active combat zone, confirm your identity immediately."

There was a brief pause as the pilots waited for a bit until a fuzzy sound came up on the radio as a voice was heard,

"This…Al…Port…Chop…108…War…"

The Ace knew that something was up since the Dragon Emprey ships had communication problems during the Storm operation as he asked,

"Magic, can you clear this up?"

The AWACS stated, "I'm already on it…and…done."

That's when the voice from the Orgoi spoke again, "Ah jeez, Testing…testing…This is Captain Alvin H. Davenport, TAC Name: Chopper of the 108th Tactical Fighter Squadron, callsign: Wardog 3. This big bird is not a threat to you and we're looking forward to being escorted to allied territory."

Upon hearing that name, Trigger remembered hearing that name before. At November City, the stadium was called the 'Alvin H. Davenport Memorial Stadium' in honor of the Osean pilot who sacrificed himself to save the evacuating civilians during the air battle above the stadium during the Circum-Pacific War.

But there's also the squadron number, the 108th was also known as the Four Wings of Sand Island, a fighter squadron that helped the Osean forces push into Yuktobania during the war. But there's also a problem - Alvin H. Davenport is supposed to be dead.

Either there's an Osean with the same name or Trigger is dealing with a ghost. But then again, High Roller and Tabloid were once believed dead, but Steven had the sirens to thank for his survival. But High Roller was just really lucky to escape the grim reaper's scythe.

That's when he answered, "Wardog 3, we read you. Set your course to 80 and rendezvous with the waiting fleet at Midway Atoll."

Chopper stated, "We appreciate it, man. I also have three shipgirls aboard who cracked me out of the pod that I was in for nine years."

At that point, the Orgoi was confirmed as Friendly as the six aircraft flew alongside the aerial warship. As the CFA-44 flew near the front of the ship, Trigger thought about what Chopper said, that he was in a pod for nine years and three shipgirls aboard the large aircraft were responsible for cracking him out of it. It reminded him too much of how Tabloid was found. So he cut off the mic and asked Amagi,

"So what do you think about this? The Captain Davenport that I've read about, was killed in action during a Yuktobanian air raid at November City during the last war. Could this be another wayward pilot like Steve?"

Amagi figured, "I sense no signs of lies or deceit from him. But his emotions are that of someone who has awoken from a long sleep. If this is true, then he could be this Captain Davenport from what you've read."

"I hope you're right, but I'm going to have to break the news to him that he was posthumously promoted to Lieutenant Colonel due to his death."

Amagi chuckled, "He will be surprised."

As they escorted the Orgoi, he contacted the fleet, "All allied forces, Osean IFF confirmed - Orgoi is friendly, I repeat, Orgoi is friendly."

Enterprise spoke, "A friendly Orgoi? That's surprising, but it's good to have one on our side for a change."

But that wasn't until Long Caster pointed out, "Wait, new bogeys on radar. Bearing 240, F-15 S/MTDs and a large presence accompanying the two fighters."

Prez took notice, "Trigger, there's no IFF response from those signals. Enemy Aircraft incoming!"

That's when a series of voices came up on the radio, "There it is, that's Orgoi 1-6, they have escort fighters as well."

"We've received some reports from retreating Red Axis kansen - Azur Lane has destroyed the siren planes and ships attempting to go after the pirates as well as supporting the traitor and her destroyers and there's additional confirmation that Three Strikes is among the air units."

"The bird with the three lines? Now's the opportunity to show Crimson 1 what's what!"

"We'll deal with Three Strikes while Gladeus deals with the Orgoi."

That's when the two F-15 S/MTDs were in visual range along with another large aircraft accompanying them.

Trigger turned his aircraft to look at the incoming aircraft and asked his WSO,

"Prez, who are these guys?"

The WSO worked at her terminal aboard the AWACS, "Okay, these guys are Triplication and Churches, they were involved in the Federation Conflict as Federation Intercept Specialists along with that Littoria II-class air battlecruiser, the Gladeus. That airship was created by Icarus Armories and it is equipped with air-to-air missiles and CIWS, but don't get cocky when getting close to it since the AA weaponry will tear you to pieces."

Long Caster stated, "That gunship is after Wardog 3, new orders are to engage the enemy gunship and the aircraft accompanying it. Protect Wardog 3."

Trigger soon ordered, "Zachary, have your Fortune Hunters stay with the Orgoi and swat down anything trying to attack it. Mav and Orishina are with me. We're going after those specialists."

Nathan stated, "Acknowledged, Strider 1. We'll protect the Orgoi."

As the Fury, Skyhawk and Crusader formed a defensive line near the aerial warship, the YF-23 and F-35C formed up on the CFA-44 as he said,

"You guys ready?"

Mav spoke, "These guys are two of the aces of the Federation that survived the conflict. But we can take them."

Orishina stated, "The Federation was responsible for Tokyo, any federal unit that's shot down will be a sigh of relief for Tokyo."

Trigger asked, "What about that airship?"

"Littoria-class air battlecruisers were used when the Federation attempted to attack the Nagasaki Prefecture, but the SDF and PMCs were able to shoot a few of them down, but the SDF took a few losses because they underestimated their AA defenses. I recommend using quick and fast attacks from above or below to avoid getting shot at by its AA guns."

The Ace acknowledged this as he said, "Get ready! Here they come!"

At that point, the two Advanced Eagles pounced on the allied planes as Trigger warned the Orgoi,

"Chopper, take evasive maneuvers, but maintain course to the fleet. There are three fighter escorts that will help you get to the rendezvous while we deal with the enemy."

"I appreciate that since I'm not looking forward to dying again. I had even activated this bird's AA guns and missiles in case any of my pursuers got close."

As the three planes engaged the two, Churches spoke,

"Trip, I see the three-lined marking, it's definitely him."

Triplication confirmed, "Good, let's see if Three Strikes lives up to what Rodriguez and Sulejmani have been talking about."

"Trip, be careful, it's not just Three Strikes out there."

Churches was pursuing the F-35C as he attempted to get on its tail, only for it to do a barrel roll over him as he looked up to see the pilot of the F-35 flipping him the bird as Churches realized,

"We have a Ghostrider in the skies, Trip."

Trip figured as he pursued a YF-23 that made a dive for the water before pulling up, hitting the brakes and flipping over him as it Black Widow was now on his six as the stealth fighter fired the guns as a stream of lead raked across the F-15 S/MTD's fuselage, dealing minor damage. When he heard Churches report, he stated,

"Maverick is back in the skies? I thought he was transferred to being a test pilot?"

"He was, but Crimson 1 did report that he showed up during the base attack."

Trip stated, "We still have our orders - we deal with those fighters while the airship deals with the Orgoi."

At that point, the two Ace pilots were looking to take on the three planes as the Gladeus was looking to get a clear shot at the rogue Orgoi. As Trip got onto Trigger's tail, the Remnant Ace was firing his machine guns as the Osean Ace did evasive maneuvers to avoid getting shot up. But that's when Trigger pulled a cobra and was now the one in pursuit as he fired his twin machine guns, damaging the Advanced Eagle, forcing Trip to break off.

Trigger stated, "One of the bandits is damaged, but still flying."

Prez figured, "Target damage confirmed. Great job, Trigger."

Mav and Orishina decided to take Churches on together as they kept on the Remnant Ace's tail, even as he attempted a post-stall maneuver going past Maverick, but the SDF pilot who was on the veteran's six had got a radar lock and fired a missile as it struck a non-critical area of the Advanced Eagle. She spoke,

"Bandit hit, but he's not down."

Maverick noted, "He moved in a way that minimizes the damage taken from that missile."

Trigger spoke, "An old Ace pilot was able to pull that off when I faced him in combat. It's tricky, but it works."

The three pilots soon noticed that the Gladeus was moving in on Wardog 3 as the Orgoi was halfway to the rendezvous. The threat of the opposing airship caused the Fortune Hunters to break off and commence quick attacks on the Gladeus. Trigger also noticed that the two Aces were not retreating due to battle damage. Amagi also took notice,

"It seems they intend to fight you to the death."

Trigger mentally spoke, "Not the first time that's happened to me. But there's also the airship pursuing Chopper, I think it's best that one of us goes to help Nathan and his team, I can't go support them because those two will be after me."

"A two-on-two duel between these Remnant Aces."

He stated, "Exactly and I'm sure you saw the Duel over Anchorhead Bay in my head."

The spirit replied, "I have, but it will be interesting to see you duel these two."

He soon turned on the mic as he decided on who would go help the Fortune Hunters. Both experience and weaponry were all a factor in this decision, so he asked,

"Cyclops 5 and 6, how experienced are you at fighting airships?"

Maverick spoke, "I shot down a Littoria Battlecruiser and a Kottos Support Aircraft in combat before I was transferred to fly the Darkstar, so I know a thing or two about fighting these things."

Orishina stated, "I only shot down a Gyges Aerial Battleship before I was transferred to Azur Lane."

After some thought, he decided, "Maverick, you're going to help protect Wardog 3 from the hostile airship while Orishina and I take down the fighters."

The veteran pilot knew that he had a plan and the priority was covering the friendly Orgoi, so he said,

"I'm on it"

At that point, Maverick's F-35C broke off and flew to assist the privateers in protecting the aerial aircraft carrier.

As the two allied fighters were in formation, the enemy aces had already regained their confidence to fight back. Trigger contacted his wingman,

"Ready, Orishina?"

She replied, "Armed and ready."

Soon enough, the two clashed with the enemy aces as Trigger went after Trip while Orishina went after Churches. It also became clear now that since the two aces had damaged planes - it would make them desperate to kill Trigger and his wingman.

But as Trigger got a lock on Triplication, the enemy Ace decided,

"Church, activate saturation decoy!"

"Activating decoy!"

All of a sudden, several target boxes appeared around the actual target as each plane's system targeted the decoys as Trigger realized,

"Orishina, watch out. That's a Saturation Decoy, they're going to try to trick our targeting systems into attacking what is essentially smoke and mirrors. Don't let the decoy fool you - aim for the target directly in the middle of the cluster."

She understood this as her YF-23's systems targeted the Advanced Eagle as she fired a stream of bullets into the enemy plane. She knew that she got a hit as her aircraft's system registered the bullets as 'Hit' as they struck the enemy aircraft.

She announced, "Target hit and I was able to see through the illusion."

As for Trigger, he's been through the use of a saturation decoy before with the Van Dalsens since they used the same type of decoy during Operation Sighthound. But if these two have any sort of unexpected additions like the brother-sister team, it's best that they watch out for anything that these aces may deploy.

That's when the plane that Trigger was pursuing did a kulbit and fired two missiles at random. It confused the Osean pilot a bit until he looked at his radar and saw that the missiles briefly appeared and disappeared on the search screen. When he saw that his plane's missile alarm wasn't going off when the missile was closing in on him, he immediately broke off and began evasive maneuvers as he contacted his wingman,

"Ori, watch out for their missiles! They have stealth missiles loaded on their planes! Your missile alarm won't go off in time and the missile will hit you as soon as you hear the alarm."

Orishina broke off and asked, "Are you sure?"

"Take it from Lanza, he had his plane damaged by a stealth missile before."

Both Nosferatu and Black Widow soon focused on evasion as they did all that they could to avoid the missiles while also keeping their eyes on their opponents.

The two enemy aces were using their tricks to try and down Three Strikes and his wingman as they fired more stealth missiles. But since both pilots were aware of the stealth missiles, they were getting their shots on target while evading the missiles. Trigger had to admit that despite these pilots utilizing stealth missiles and saturation decoys, they are ace material - just like Otto and Elke.

But as he evaded another missile, he was able to get behind the Remnant Ace, lock on and announce,

"Strider 1 Fox 2!"

He fired a missile at the enemy aircraft as it struck the wing and an explosion occurred as the Advanced Eagle was tumbling down in flames as the pilot yelled,

"I'm hit…going down…" The radio cut off shortly afterwards as the second enemy Ace called out,

"Trip, come in! Damn it!"

Orishina noticed, "You got one of the bandits, now there's only one left."

Trigger stated, "We'll run him down together, but you'll land the deathblow."

As the two planes formed up to chase down the last specialist, Churches spoke,

"Damn it, it seems like they have pilots like that. Looks like Rodriguez was right about the bird with the three lines. But I'm not going to go down so easily! Enhance ECM!"

Trigger and Orishina paired up to chase down Churches as the Osean Ace got a radar lock, only for the reticle to go off the target box for a bit before re-locking back onto the target. Trigger figured,

"Enhanced ECMs, it will only allow us to get a brief lock-on before breaking off. Time your attacks carefully and fire your missiles when you have radar lock."

His wingman understood that as the specialist was maneuvering even harder than before. This was a Federation Remnant Ace chosen to be an Intercept Specialist after all. He did a kulbit before firing more stealth missiles as they either relied on evasive maneuvers or chaff and flares. But they would also use their machine guns as a means of alternating between the weapons of their planes.

As for Churches, he was alternating between stealth missiles and saturation decoys with his enhanced ECM system toying with the missile lock-on systems of the allied aircraft. He still couldn't believe that Trip was shot down by Three Strikes because aside from the Peacekeepers, Trip was a great pilot who were paired together when they became Intercept Specialists and were introduced when the Allied Forces launched an attack on a Siren Shipyard during the Federation Conflict - they intercepted seven SDF aircraft, but the PMC forces were able to destroy the shipyard. They would be deployed in Korea and the Sakura Islands until they had to go dark after the Battle of the Korean Border and The Tokyo Incident.

That's when the Red Axis began the war and the emergence of Three Strikes led to Bismarck seeking out remnant air forces to deal with the three-lined ace - Crimson and Varcolac were hired to deal with Three Strikes. The Intercept Specialists were recommended by the Peacekeepers and were assigned the mission to intercept and destroy the rogue Orgoi, but they didn't think about facing off against Three Strikes despite being warned about him.

But now despite their efforts with the decoys, stealth missiles, ECM and their own skills, Trip was shot down by Three Strikes. Now both the Ace and his wingman were after him while the airship went after the Orgoi. That's when he decided,

"You wanna catch me, Three Strikes? Come and get me!"

The Advanced Eagle soon turned to the direction of the rogue Orgoi as the Nosferatu and Black Widow gave chase.

---

Meanwhile aboard the Orgoi, Chopper was working the controls as the kansen were at the weapons terminals as the Gladeus attempted to pursue them. But as the Wardog pilot checked his radar, he figured that they were about halfway to the fleet. But as the enemy airship was firing its guns at the airborne aircraft carrier, Captain Davenport was a bit frustrated with this guy as he sighed,

"Man, this guy doesn't know when to give up!"

Z1 was at the AA missile terminal as she spoke, "Don't worry Kapitän Davenport, I have the missiles locked onto the enemy airship."

Chopper warned his escorts, "Any allied aircraft, it's best to watch out because we're launching AA missiles on the large hostile aircraft."

Maverick, who was providing support for the Osean pilot with the Fortune Hunters spoke,

"Thanks for the warning, Wardog 3."

Nathan spoke, "We got the warning, most of the CIWS systems on the airship were destroyed, so the missiles will be able to hit."

Chopper soon stated, "All right, escorts are clearing the area. Kid, are you ready?"

The destroyer was at her terminal as she got a lock on the oversized diamond shaped biplane as the target box hit red, "I've got tone. On your mark!"

Chopper decided to announce, "Chopper Fox 2!"

As soon as the destroyer pulled the trigger on her terminal, two missiles launched from the sides of the airborne carrier as they traveled to the Gladeus as both missiles struck its SAM launchers, doing damage to the ship.

Z1 announced, "Direct hit on its launchers, they have been knocked out!"

"That lifts the weight off our shoulders, but there's still those AA Guns. But I can outrun them, hold on!"

The Orgoi soon performed its nimble maneuvers as it swerved away from the enemy airship while maintaining its course to the fleet. That's when Chopper pushed forward on the stick as the aerial warship made a dive for the water before pulling up and veering to the right.

It's clear that the Gladeus is not as nimble as an Orgoi as it tries to keep up with them, but the AA guns couldn't get a bead on the faster aerial warship. However, that's when Chopper checked his radar and spotted two friendly blips and one enemy blip since he heard the confirmation of one of the two enemy specialists getting shot down by that three-lined aircraft.

Prinz Heinrich, who was checking the radar, spoke, "The last enemy fighter is leading them to the Gladeus in hopes of relying on the airship's AA guns to shoot them down."

Chopper figured, "He's baiting them to go after him? It's a good plan, but there's two on one, but if he gets closer to the airship, then they either break off from them or split off to deal with both targets."

That's when he decided to contact the escorts, "Hey guys, heads up because the last enemy fighter is baiting your flight lead in an effort to get him caught in the airship's AA guns."

Nathan heard this, "Clever bastard."

Maverick spoke, "The airship would shred Strider 1 to pieces, but knowing him - he may actually have a plan to counter this trap."

Betty figured, "Well, he does have those missiles as his special weapon and he's not alone in pursuing the enemy aircraft."

Tex spoke, "All those factors means that the Federal Ace has underestimated Strider 1."

As the three fighters approached the airship, Chopper's prophecy came true as the CFA-44 broke off and armed his special weapon. The airship had its guns trained on the offending aircraft until an open frequency transmission spoke,

"Strider 1, DRIVE DRIVE!"

At that moment, multiple missiles fired from the launchers, all zeroing in on the Gladeus. They were fast as the missiles struck the airship's critical points like the engines and remaining guns. But some of the missiles struck the airship's cockpit which messed up its steering as the ship lurched down as the burning ship soon started to fall.

At the same time, the enemy Ace was trying to shake Orishina's YF-23, but the damage to his aircraft had caused him to lose speed and maneuverability and it left him vulnerable to a missile from the YF-23 as the dealt the final blow to his aircraft as Churches realized,

"Damn it, my bird is fried…but how could we lose!?"

Orishina chimed in, "It takes a better pilot to down someone like you."

Afterwards, the burning F-15 S/MTD was tumbling down towards the ocean as the plane made impact with the water. The SDF pilot confirmed that there was no chute, most likely he couldn't eject from his plane. But that's when she saw Trigger's missiles destroy the airship's cockpit as the gunship soon fell towards the ocean. Orishina realized,

"The Gladeus has taken a deathblow! It was Trigger! Trigger did it!"

A series of cheers erupted throughout the fleet as both pilots, sailors and kansen cheered as they heard that the airship was destroyed.

As the burning Gladeus crashed into the ocean, the Orgoi and its escorts had reached the rendezvous point with the allied fleet as it took its position above the ships. Trigger soon announced,

"Strider 1 to Magic and Long Caster, all hostile aircraft are down - Allied Orgoi is secure."

Magic stated, "We can see it now, it's a beautiful sight to see an Orgoi on our side for once."

Long Caster announced, "Midway reports picture clear on radar and all allied forces have met up."

That's when Trigger heard the voices on the radio, first coming from the Kennedy,

"Strider 1, this is Big John, we are grateful for your arrival. We would not have made it if you and your squadron had not come along."

Nathan spoke, "I guess we owe you one for pulling us out of the fire."

Trigger stated, "This one's on the house, Zachary."

That made the privateer chuckle as Amelia's voice came on the radio,

"Strider 1, this is the Dannern, your squadrons and your fleet were a big help in protecting the freighter - the cargo we have is valuable."

"I can imagine why a Leasath freighter would be of value to the Sirens."

That wasn't until Amelia realized, "Wait…that voice…Patrick, is that you!?"

That's when Trigger realized, "I knew your voice sounded familiar, Amelia!"

That caught everyone by surprise as Count asked, "Is she a friend of yours, Trigger?"

"She's a friend of my cousins, both are pilots in the Aurelian Air Force."

The scientist chuckled, "I guess being a combat pilot runs in the family."

"My dad and uncle were pilots, so it does run in the family."

That's when they heard a familiar voice, "Strider 1, this is Sakura Aircraft Carrier, Kaga along with the seven Mutsuki destroyers. We appreciate the help that you sent us against the hostile fleet and all hostile kansen have retreated."

Trigger spoke, "It's mostly Tabloid, High Roller, Maverick, Orishina and the friendly kansen that were sent to aid you, Kaga. But right now, you and your destroyers have a new home waiting for you."

The white fox wanted to say something else, but she knew it wasn't time as she said,

"Affirmative Trigger-San."

The addition of the 'San' honorific to his TAC Name meant that Kaga had indeed let go of her hatred of him and knowing of her new goal, Trigger heard Amagi chuckle,

"I can hear the first of many wedding bells ringing."

Trigger's face went red as he mentally said, "Not now, Amagi!"

That's when Chopper spoke, "Thanks for getting us out in one piece, those guys were really set on shooting us down."

Trigger stated, "What really matters is that we got you and the three shipgirls to safety."

That's when a new voice spoke, "You did well in protecting us, Strider 1. I am Destroyer Z1 of the Iron Blood, I was at the ruins with the blockade during that one battle."

"I see, it's good to have you on our side."

A second voice spoke, "Strider 1, this is Light Cruiser Nürnberg of the Iron Blood. I have heard stories about you, but to see you in combat as well as coordinating your forces is incredible. It's astonishing how a pilot was able to lead a fighter squadron and coordinate a fleet at the same time."

"I always make sure that my squadrons and my fleet are in areas that best suit their capabilities and as for being able to coordinate both my squadrons and fleet - I lead the shipgirls just like how I lead my squadron."

That's when an excited voice spoke, "This is Heavy Cruiser Prinz Heinrich of the Iron Blood, it's amazing just to see you in combat, I can't wait to meet you in person."

Nürnburg sighed, "I prefer that you save your fangirling when we are on the ground."

Trigger figured, "It's okay, Nürnberg while I do appreciate that people know about me, but ultimately - it's Azur Lane and the LRSSG that are heard."

Heinrich was amused, "You are also a humble man who doesn't take all the glory."

"I'm not a gloryhound, I'm just a simple pilot making his way through the world."

The Heavy Cruiser chuckled, "You know with your honesty, I think even Eisen would love you."

Trigger knew full well that she meant her rigging because some tend to have minds of their own and that he read the dossiers of every shipgirl whose name ends up on his desk. It was long and tedious, but at least he will know a thing or two about various shipgirls.

That's when they heard Midway island speak, "This is Midway Control to Magic and Long Caster, have the Fortune Hunters and the Defectors been accounted for?"

Both AWACS planes confirmed that all mission critical objectives were accounted for as the three groups met up safely. That's when the Midway Commander stated,

"Strider 1, this is Midway, you did a great job in helping our allies make the rendezvous point. I have to admit when those specialists showed up, we were a bit on edge especially with that airship. But you and your team were able to take it down, saving the fleet and Midway itself. Great flying, Commander."

Trigger replied, "I appreciate the praise, Midway, but I didn't do this alone because I have some of the best in the air and on the water. But in the meantime, we'll escort the fleet back to Hawaii for debriefing."

Midway Command acknowledged, "Affirmative Strider 1, we'll notify Pearl Harbor about what happened here. RTB."

As Trigger was flying above the fleet, he saw the ships, specifically carriers like the Kennedy sitting in the center of the fleet while Kaga had her rigging set to its ship form as the kansen looked up at the Ace which he could swear that she was making a heart-shaped gesture with her hands. That did make him go red underneath the oxygen mask as he hoped that Amagi wouldn't make another marriage reference. But as he saw this setting as he flew over the fleet, he remembered a story that his uncle told - about what he did after destroying Aegir Fleet, the Invincible Armada. So Trigger soon started to sing,

"O'er Azure Skies,

And Emerald Plains…"

The other fighter squadrons were flying about while patrolling the fleet as they heard Trigger singing on the radio,

"Where Freedom And Justice Prevail!"

As he turned his CFA-44 to the vector of Hawaii, he was joined by his squadron as he continued to sing with others joining in,

"With Courage And Strength,

We'll Fight To The End,

For Liberty In Our Land!!"

The song ended as one of the pilots went, "YEAH HOO!"

After he finished, Trigger was relieved that they pulled these guys out of the fire. He was surprised to find that Amelia was here and it was a long time since they had seen each other. It is surprising to see that of all the scientists in Leasath, she happened to be aboard which meant that she was assigned to a team aboard the freighter regarding the cargo aboard. He also knew that like his cousins in the Aurelian Air Force - Amelia also had no love for Diego Navarro who was not looking to rebuild his impoverished country after the war.

Leasath's impoverishment and the rise of Navarro's regime is what led his Leasath cousin and aunt to immigrate to Aurelia. But he couldn't help but wonder what Navarro was up to and why were the sirens after this ship?

But he can figure it out from Amelia once they are back at base. As he flew above the fleet with some of the planes escorting the Orgoi, he heard Big John from the carrier speak,

"Strider 1, this is Big John, if any of your wingmen are flying carrier planes, you are cleared to land for fuel or rest as we head to your base."

Trigger figured, "I think it's best that the Fortune Hunters land since you have been fighting nonstop all morning."

FH-01 heard this, "That's not a bad idea since Red Axis had been on our tails for several hours. We didn't know if we could last much longer until you showed up."

FH-02 stated, "Then we better take him up on his offer, Boss."

FH-03 figured, "I could use some rest after the events of this morning."

Count soon pulled his aircraft alongside Trigger as he said,

"Trigger, you did a lot today as well. You coordinated the efforts and set us in places that we were needed in and worked with others to protect this Orgoi."

He knew where this was going, "You want me to land as well?"

"Let's face it, buddy. You have to put your best foot forward and introduce yourself to these guys after saving their lives."

Trigger had wanted to stay in the air, but he knew that Count was right since first impressions were important and the Fortune Hunters had held their own against the enemy until the LRSSG arrived. He decided,

"I'll go down and introduce myself."

His wingman stated, "I'll keep up with the escort and patrols while you're down there."

Trigger added, "We're the Osean Big Shots after all."

Count agreed, "The LRSSG themselves are all Osean Big Shots."

Count remembered that the term originally related to Trigger and Wiseman being the best lead birds in their squadrons. When he was Strider 2 during the Alicorn Crisis, the term related to him and Trigger until he went back as Cyclops 2, but after Wiseman died, he was permanently placed in the saddle as Strider 2 regaining his 'Big Shot' title. In the later stages of the war, that term is carried to the rest of the squadrons of the LRSSG which proves that his former flight lead had trained them well - everyone in their company is a Big Shot. Count knew that Wiseman would be proud of him and Trigger for conducting themselves and leading this team.

As for Trigger, he entered the landing corridor as Big John spoke,

"Strider 1, this is Big John on the Kennedy's Control Tower, make your landing check."

Trigger lowered his landing gear as the CFA-44's tail hook lowered as well as the helmsman stated,

"The others have landed before you and they have already cleared the flight deck. You are cleared to land."

Strider 1 began his approach as he maneuvered his plane into position in order to land on the carrier as well as have the tail hook catch the arresting cables after touchdown. He made his approach as Big John provided him with instructions to guide him down to the carrier.

Trigger focused on speed and altitude in order to land as Big John spoke,

"Heading is good, you're on course."

As Trigger's plane got close to the carrier, the lift produced by the Nosferatu's slats gently lifted the nose slightly up as the plane soon made contact with the deck. As the tires impacted with the carrier deck, Trigger opened the air brake as the tail hook caught the cables as the plane soon slowed to a halt as Big John spoke,

"Nicely done, Strider 1."

That's when Nathan told his crew, "Strider 1 has landed, let's go out and meet him."

That's when Long Caster spoke, "You did good out there, Strider 1. The other pilots would follow your example."

The Ace corrected, "It wasn't just me when I had some of the best by my side and they played a critical part in this battle. So I might as well say it…"

He announced on all channels,

"Azur Lane, Victory is Ours!"

The satisfying 'ding' occurred on the HUD as the system announced, "Mission Accomplished!"

Afterwards, Trigger's plane was moved off of the runway and placed next to the Island as he followed the instructions of the flight deck crew and applied the brakes as instructed. He soon opened the canopy as he climbed out of the CFA-44, removing his flight helmet after his boots touched the deck as he turned to see the three pilots approaching him, both wearing flight suits, but had aviator jackets over their suits as they each carried their flight helmets with them.

Once the trio got close to him, the man - Nathan Zachary looked Trigger over and figured,

"You look a bit young to be a Commander and an Ace."

Trigger sighed as he said, "Everyone seems to say that whenever they see me in person."

"Don't worry, we know better than to judge a book by its cover and from what you've shown us today - you've earned your rank and lived up to the stories."

The Fortune Hunters soon snapped a salute to Trigger, welcoming the Osean Ace aboard as Trigger saluted back. Afterwards, he soon noticed the pirate kansen board the carrier as she approached him with a look of curiosity and intrigue,

"By Davy Jones' claws, you are an interesting man, Three Strikes. A flyer like you in command of the shipgirls of Azur Lane, but at the same time in command of your squadron taking part in the battles personally."

She walked around him as the tentacles in her dark hair slid across his forehead as she smiled,

"A pilot like you would be a valuable treasure for anyone, but my fellow shipgirls in Tempesta would love you."

Trigger asked, "I really hope that's a figure of speech."

The pirate kansen pulled his face dangerously close to hers as she said,

"Tempesta already knows about the flyboy with the three scratches - but I get to be the first to meet you personally and you are about as dashing as the famous rogues of the seven seas."

As Trigger made eye contact with the kansen, he actually noticed hearts form in Royal Fortune's eyes as the pirate kansen released him. She soon went to the side of the Fortune Hunters as Nathan was surprised by her behavior and apologized,

"Sorry about her behavior, sir. She's a usual flirt with the crew, but she never went as far as to grab someone like that."

Trigger shrugged, "Aside from nearly being raped by a drunk battleship kansen in a public bar, I should've been used to it by now."

"At least I would not have to smash a bottle of Sake over her head."

Trigger remembered that voice as he turned to see a familiar fox approaching him. The Osean was a bit surprised to see Kaga standing before him and it became clear to him that she had changed.

She was smiling and was relieved to see that he was okay. Trigger remembered the time when she wanted to kill him, had she still wanted to - she would've allowed Crimson 1's missile to strike him. But the ruins had indeed changed the carrier and thanks to information from Amagi, he learned that she was watching him from a distance.

It was clear that his act of kindness at the ruins was what changed her mind about him and her new motive. The spirit had already teased him about the sounds of many wedding bells being heard - no surprise for Trigger since he is aware of the many shipgirls showing interest in him with Enterprise's sympathies towards what he went through during the Lighthouse War, Arizona's drunken attempt on him, Hood being more confident about her 'hidden bust' when he saw her on the beach wearing her swimsuit - clearly not shying away when she saw him, Prinz Eugene's constant teasing - including that one morning, Wales shooting a loving expression at him and already - Royal Fortune comparing him to a dashing pirate of old.

He shook those thoughts off as he spoke, "Kaga, I guess the circumstances are more friendlier than they were in the ruins."

She remembered, "You did shoot me after all and temporarily healed my wounds until I returned to Kyoten."

He added, "I have also heard that you were in the vicinity of my base and saved me from Crimson 1 while I was landing."

The fox sighed, "It's true - I was there when the Iron Blood attacked the base and I was not going to let you die from that monster of a human."

"Bismarck learned of your involvement, declared you a traitor to Red Axis and fled with the Mutsuki destroyers."

Kaga nodded and said, "It was all true, but two sympathetic shipgirls bought us time to escape."

Trigger was curious, "There's someone on the inside who's allied with Azur Lane in secret?"

Nathan stepped in and said, "As a matter of fact, I received a real-time connection with our inside sources because of Kaga's defection. Their callsigns are 'Iron Cyclops' and 'Iron Specs' since their historical nickname describes them together, but needed individual callsigns. It was strange to receive contact with someone from inside the enemy GHQ, but they were helpful in the past since they gave information to Uncle Sam about a siren fleet looking to attack the island of Guam, but we were able to launch a surprise attack of our own and Siren Fleet Alpha was nothing more than a mass of burning and sinking ships."

Trigger was surprised to know that there is an inside source at Kyoten which meant that Nathan's crew were tipped off about Kaga defecting and that's why the rendezvous occurred here at Midway. He also read up about the decisive battle that took place Midway and was impressed with how good codebreaking, careful patrols, constant bombing runs, an Admiral's dilemma, tailing an enemy destroyer and high level bombing lead to the destruction of the historical IJN fleet.

But this was also where Kaga's historical self met her end in these very waters, knowing that beneath the waves lay the wreck site of the historical Kaga. But the Ace would notice the kansen glance out towards the water and noticing the receding atoll of Midway as he could tell that she was getting a historical memory - remembering the moment of the battle where she was struck by the Dauntless Dive Bombers lead by Lieutenant Commander McClusky of the USS Enterprise.

He knew that at some point, Kaga would go into a traumatic breakdown like with Arizona. But Trigger just happened to have a solution as he reached into a small freezer bag that he pulled from his plane as he realized,

"I'm surprised that this stayed cool during the heat of battle."

He reached into the bag as he approached the white fox as he tapped her on the shoulder to snap her out of it. She turned and saw Trigger holding a freshly unwrapped stick of Sea-Salt Ice Cream, she was curious about it,

"What is this?"

Trigger stated, "It's something that will ease your mind since you just got through Midway."

She accepted the ice cream as she inspected the frozen treat before finally taking a small bite out of it and she felt her mind settling down as her thoughts regarding her historical past began to subside. She also noticed the sensation of the ice cream as she stated,

"I have to thank you for easing my mind, it seems that you have taken notice of shipgirls who enter this sort of situation and the ice cream has an interesting taste since it's salty and yet sweet."

Trigger figured, "There were a few in that situation where you were remembering your historical past, but you're only the second kansen to calm down because of Sea-Salt Ice Cream - the first being Enterprise."

She smiled as she said, "I had a feeling that you would bring the Phantom out of her shell. Now I see that there is a certain aura about you - that you have been through the darkest moments of your life, but you were able to climb out and inspired others to follow you through the flames of war."

Trigger was reminded of the jail cells of Zapland, convicted of a crime that he did not commit, forced to undertake suicide missions for 'redemption' under the orders of an egotistical base commander. But he did turn a ragtag group of convicts into a real fighter squadron and they gave him a motto to live by - Stick With Trigger And You'll Make It.

After being transferred to the LRSSG, Trigger led Strider Squadron during the initial start of the counterattack with his squadron formation changing until he had the perfect setup of Count, Jaeger and Hüxian during the Alicorn Crisis. He wouldn't use this setup until after the Battle of Farbanti when Wiseman was killed by Mister X and the communications blackout occurred.

Afterwards, the mission to Anchorhead Bay that later turned into a disaster, Tyler Island and Shilage Castle where things kept getting worse. While Trigger's duel with Mister X over the castle proved that he was worthy to beat the aging pilot, it also proved that despite his skills and impressive moves - Mihaly was still human with family of his own because Mihaly told him to put a stop to the drone production and begged the Osean to save his grandchildren before communications cut.

Then came Operation Daredevil where all forces from both Osea and Erusea banded together to put a stop to the Erusean Radicals and their drones which also meant bringing down the final Arsenal Bird. When they attacked the Arsenal Bird, all Osean and Erusean pilots got behind him because they would survive when they followed Trigger.

Trigger stated, "You're right, I have been through it all."

Kaga smiled and said, "You are also worthy of me after opening my eyes at the ruins."

It was at that point that the white fox soon kissed the Ace pilot on the cheek, much to the surprise of the privateers and that also caused a spark to occur in Royal Fortune and all the other shipgirls who have the hearts for Trigger.

---

Pearl's Bar

Pearl Harbor, Hawaii

1200 hrs

It was high noon as the usual patrons were entering the bar as Penny was serving up drinks and lunch to the usual sailors and pilots. She did hear about the second attack on Azur Lane, but felt relieved that Three Strikes, his squadron and his fleet were able to protect the base.

But aside from the usual naval patrons that enter her bar, she also has a few non-military patrons who come and go. But as she was finished serving one patron, she was soon met by a man, but he was unlike anyone else.

For one, he wore a coat and muffler over what looked like a flight suit, he had brown eyes and brown hair as he also had what looked like a raincoat over his shoulder and looked like he was in his early 50s. She looked at the strange man and asked,

"May I help you?"

The man nodded and said, "I just need a drink after what I've been through."

She was curious and asked, "You didn't encounter any Sirens while fishing, did you?"

He sighed, "I didn't know what I saw, I was in my fishing boat when all of a sudden, several strange vessels appeared out of nowhere, next thing I knew they were trying to shoot at my boat. I didn't know what their problem was."

Penny had a feeling about what this man encountered,

"Well, you encountered the Sirens and from the looks of it - you survived the encounter."

The man felt a bit humbled before saying, "It wasn't just me, there was a young woman with me as well and the sight of being shot at, made her go into a panic attack since she was once in an air battle. The poor girl can't even walk aboard a plane without getting a panic attack."

Penny had a feeling that something might've happened and guessed,

"She was shot down?"

He nodded and said, "She was in combat with an SU-30 with orange wingtips, she was panicking and begging her allies for support - one answered her call for help, but he failed to protect her and she was shot down. But she bailed out and ever since then, she's had Post Traumatic Stress from the incident."

"Where is your companion?"

He sighed and stated, "I had her go see a psychologist for her PTSD, but suffice to say when she reaches my age, stuff like that will always come back to haunt you. But I always try to press on, no matter what happened in the past."

The bartender was also curious about the story, "The pilot that tried to help her - who was it?"

"She said that it was a pilot from Mage Squadron who had the TAC Name: Trigger."

That made Penny realize that these people may know something and asked,

"You're talking about the Three Strikes - that Trigger?"

That piqued the man's curiosity, "I've heard about him before and his flying style is similar to that of an old buddy of mine from several years ago."

That's when Penny pointed to a recent picture that she hung on the wall, it showed Trigger, the pilots, the Top Gun grads and the Azur Lane kansen which also included an unconscious Arizona. She pointed out,

"He was here in Pearl Harbor on orders and stopped by my bar with his crew. He's the pilot with the Three Strikes since he has scratches on the tail of his plane and has been well-known throughout the war."

As the man gazed at the photo, he looked closely at the Ace pilot, but more importantly - his face since he remembered seeing that look of determination and confidence as well as the eyes - reminded him of an old friend. But soon enough, he realized,

"He looks just like him…"

"Who?"

The man pulled out an old photo from his pocket and placed it on the counter, "My old buddy…"

Penny looked at the photo of two men standing in front of two F-15Cs as it showed a much younger version of her customer on the right as the man on the left stood with a look of determination and confidence. She compared the man in the photo to Trigger and after a few back and forth comparisons, she realized that they had that same determined and confident look as well as eye color. But she remembered him saying that being a combat pilot runs in his family since his father was a mercenary pilot. Penny had a feeling that the man on the left was the father of Azur Lane's Ace. She looked back at the man and asked,

"Who are you?"

The man sighed as he stated, "Larry Foulke, also known as Solo Wing Pixy."

---

And that's a wrap.

Trigger and the LRSSG have met the Fortune Hunters and saved their lives from Red Axis.

The scientist turns out to be an old friend of Trigger's who he had met through his cousins, the saturation attack on the Red Axis Kansen had damaged their riggings so they had to flee.

Additionally, they were able to identify the Orgoi as an Ally and already Trigger was surprised by the fact that the pilot was Alvin H. Davenport, the pilot who sacrificed himself in the air raid on November City during the Circum-Pacific War.

He and his wingmen were able to save the Orgoi from two Remnant Aces and an Aerial Battleship.

It also appears that Royal Fortune has taken a liking to Trigger. But also Trigger and Kaga meet face-to-face once more, but this time as allies.

But apparently, Penny Benjamin has met Solo Wing Pixy and mentioned sending his female companion to a psychologist for PTSD.

Sorry it took me so long to get this up, but yes, I'm still alive.

Hopefully the next chapter won't take as long to get out there. But then again, not everything goes according to plan.

Nighthawk Out!