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She scrunches her nose for a while, before scowling slightly and crossing her arms.

‘Don’t mean to actually rip you one, but I really can’t imagine what it’d be.’ She holds up her hand, counting down with her fingers. ‘Anything from pollution to war to blasphemy’s fair game for the conspiracy theorists… but I think you already know that much, yeah?’

The Keeper brings a hand to her chin.

‘I’m surprised that there are a crapload of cults based around you and the Abyssals.’ The Keeper lets out a huff, tilting her head enough that you can see the blue in her eyes. ‘I mean, not in the way that… ah, ya know what I’m getting at, right?’ ‘We have people saying that you’re doombringers, that the Abyssals are the salvation, the types that say that we’re at the end of the rope as it is… pretty colorful, if you look at it.’

You actually grimace at that. You remember when you’d accused of heading a Four Horsemen Cult; to be fair, it was entirely benevolent and not creepy at all. The candles just gave it a poor aesthetic.

‘I’m well aware of that part of our little… arrival here.’ Tenryuu lets out a light groan at the end, running her hand through her hair. ‘Not that it’s been getting any better since. They used to think we were some sort of Guardian Angel with flaming swords back when we first came, now they think we’re a waste of time, money and toaster extensions.’ She says the last part with a little… fatigue. Tenryuu had never sounded tired in any conversation that she’d had. Not like this, at least. ‘It hasn’t been pretty, I tell ya.’

‘Sorry to hear that.’ The Keeper answers, crouching and looking upwards. ‘If it makes you feel any better… my kids and I believe that you and your Commanders can get things back on track. I’m not saying that I’m a hundred percent certain that you folks have it going right, but… I’m thankful. We would’ve lost this war a long time ago if you hadn’t bothered to come around, so, even… if it’s the inevitable that’s coming up and that there’s nothing you can do about it but push the date back… I’m – we’re – thankful that you’re willing to put yourself on the line.’

You actually find yourself… surprised. Tenryuu finds herself more than that, if her reaction is anything to go by.

‘Aw, you’re makin’ me turn red.’ She giggles unnaturally. ‘I… well, thanks for that. Not a lot of people care enough to even give us a smile nowadays…’

She gives a sincere smile back.

‘It’s nice to get a thank you every once in a while.’

One – no, two – of the manatees float up to the platform, eager for your attentions to return to them.

‘Don’t thank me yet.’ She takes a joking tone, grinning at the three of you. ‘My kids’ll be all over the both of you; think of this as an advanced apology.’

>Talk (Specify topic)
>Go to other enclosures (Specify)
>Write-In

>>777171
>>Go to other enclosures (Specify)
Let's go see the Tundra animals.

>>777171
For those who don't know the topics specified or the other attractions:

TOPICS
>'The Maelstrom.'
>'You bring your kids here?'
>'The Yoshi Island Incident...'
>Write-In

OTHER ENCLOSURES/EXHIBITS
>Crustacean and Crocodile farm
>The Mini-Submarine
>The Tundra Zone
>River Monsters

>>777243
>>The Mini-Submarine

>>777243
>>Talk (Specify topic)
>'The Maelstrom.'

>>777239
>>777255
>>777306
I'm going to flip three coin for all three of you and eliminate you by process of heads and tails until one is left. Seem fair?

>>777320
go for it

>>777320
Sounds good to me.

>>777320
I'm alright with it

>>777328
>>777331
>>777341
Coin flipped, Write up in approx. 20 minutes.

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‘Do you mind if we have a look at the other exhibits before we go?’ You inquire. In truth, you felt like you were already imposing more than you probably should have on this woman’s work hours. ‘I think you’d have a better time doing your work without us being in your face so much…’

As a manatee grabs its meal from her hand, gives you a nod.

‘Sure. You can meet me at the staff office whenever you want to leave. It’s right by the information kiosk, so if you ever get lost, just follow the signs.’

You give her one last nod before she opens the door for you into the corridor, which you head down with Iowa and Tenryuu quickly, having not much time left before you would have to meet up with her again. The evening wasn’t quite here yet, but it was indeed fast approaching, and you wanted to make the most out of the trip before anything else could interrupt it. As you exit the corridor you bump into a man who gives you an odd look – as if you didn’t belong there, which you really didn’t – before making your way back to the River Mammals and up into the wide sight of the slightly darker sky. Evening was indeed on its way.

‘So, where do you wanna go? We have just under two hours, I reckon.’ Tenryuu voices, jogging up to you, bags in tow. It’s quite surprising that you hadn’t noticed that she had been hauling everyone’s things without even breaking a sweat – you doubt you could do the same.

‘Tundra?’

‘This way.’ Iowa hooks her arm around you, quickly dragging you – much to your amusement, as soon as you’d suggested the place. You don’t bother fighting it, and Tenryuu is amused enough at the sight of you being pulled by the slightly taller female that she just jogs alongside you for the duration of your little trip there, giving curious looks at the cut-out stands on the side.

The exhibit is surprisingly huge – you’d even go as far to say it looked comparable to the pool of water than your had traversed under upon entering the aquarium. Befitting its name, the building that hosted the Tundra exhibit was indeed rather cold – even for you on those rainy mornings by the beach. Iowa grasps harder onto your arm, her exuberance bursting so brightly that it you would have thought for it to be contagious, pulling your inside – Tenryuu, now at the head of your small group, shoots you an amused wink as you walk past the fix couches to join her in the view of…

Several tiny, energetic penguins, sliding down an icy slope.

‘These are so adorable!’ Tenryuu squeals, pressing up against the glass.

>‘Iowa, you can let go of me now.’ (Amused/Flirt)
>‘Hey, look, it looks like these were bred in captivity.’ (Trivia)
>‘Tenryuu, are you okay hauling all those?’ (Concern)
>‘Penguins.’ (Penguins)
>Write-In

>>777501
>>‘Tenryuu, are you okay hauling all those?’ (Concern)

>>777501
>>‘Tenryuu, are you okay hauling all those?’ (Concern)

>>777501
>>‘Tenryuu, are you okay hauling all those?’ (Concern)

>>777501
>>‘Penguins.’ (Penguins)

>>777501
>‘Tenryuu, are you okay hauling all those?’ (Concern)

File: Tenryuu-Sama YOSH!.png (1.39 MB, 1447x2046)

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‘Tenryuu, are you okay hauling all those around?’

You refer, of course, to the half dozen, maybe more – you can’t tell if there are bags inside the bags – bags of clothing that Tenryuu had been bringing around since you had left the shop. She’d only set them down once – within the manatee enclosure – and truth be told, you felt a little bit embarrassed that you hadn’t gotten around to ask her if she needed to relieve her burden since then. Tenryuu gives you a quizzical look, a little confused from the inquiry. Far from you doing it out of chivalry – it was more to the fact that you’d so rudely forgotten than she was the one bringing them here and there… and you’d let her do so without so much as an offer for relief – it was almost embarrassingly rude on your part, minute as it is.

‘These bags?’ Tenryuu gives one of the bags a soft kick, snorting and raising her nose. ‘What? You suddenly have a need to play the man on this little date, Commander?’ Of course she’d follow up with a tease, chuckling. Tenryuu doesn’t look like she holds it against you at all, though. She takes the bags, raising them for emphasis – hers and Iowa’s, to be exact. ‘Well, if you want to, I think that I can let you carry a few of ‘em.’ She hands over two bags to you – neither of them yours – which you take with your prosthetic. You notice that there are several jumbles of t-shirts cramped in there as you take them. ‘Not that I’m having any trouble. I can carry a whole car for an hour if I had the energy for it.’

You don’t know if that’s an exaggeration or a testament to the power that came with being a KanMusu. Either way, you don’t question it.

‘So consider this a little respect on my part for that side of you that wants to puff your chest out and yell I’m a macho man.’

You give Tenryuu a flat look, before turning red and looking away. She hadn’t hit right on the dot – far from it – but she did come close to a part of you that wanted to say that you were over that whole bit of male ego… when, of course, you hadn’t.

‘Besides,’ Tenryuu begins again, slyly grinning and wiggling an eyebrow, ‘I think you can’t take anymore with that kinda weight on ya.’

She snickers and points… at you. At your arm.

You turn to your fully flesh and blood arm to see Iowa’s arm, indeed, still hooked around it. She doesn’t seem aware that she’d held onto you for so long… and immediately turns red, but what follows up is an even more surprising piece curiosity.

She doesn’t let go.

‘A - Ah…’

At least… not right away. For now.

>‘I don’t mind.’ (Honest)
>‘I don’t say no when a pretty girl does it, no.’ (Joke/Flirt)
>‘Uh, sorry.’ (Unhook yourself from Iowa)
>‘Says here the penguins were bred in captivity.’ (Divert/Trivia)
>Write-In

>>777700
>>‘Says here the penguins were bred in captivity.’ (Divert/Trivia)
checked

>>777700
>>‘I don’t mind.’ (Honest)

>>777700
>‘Says here the penguins were bred in captivity.’ (Divert/Trivia)

>>777700
>>‘I don’t mind.’ (Honest)

>>777700
>>‘Says here the penguins were bred in captivity.’ (Divert/Trivia)

>>777700
>>‘Says here the penguins were bred in captivity.’ (Divert/Trivia)

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You don’t exactly mind Iowa having held onto you a little longer than you’d expected… for any hot-blooded male of any mold, Iowa was a catch – not that you had any thoughts of that particular train in mind, of course, being pulled in four different directions as was already the case – but you did see sense to spare her from anymore embarrassment that Tenryuu could afford to pull on you both. In your month in dealing with the large variation of characters sent your way, you’d picked up a thing or two from the book of verbal defense, and now, of all times, was the time to actually put that particular article to work.

That article, of course, to distract the parties present into a non-threatening topic before either you or Iowa got teased to death from a Light Cruiser that could very well do that on a good day. Spying the information detail on one of the stands, you take the chance.

‘Says here the penguins were bred in captivity.’ You skilfully – in your own mind, anyway – apply your diversion, Iowa clinging onto you as she did before… with no intent of actually letting go, weirdly enough. ‘The whole flock started with four pairs.’ You read off the panel, finding it a lot more interesting than you would have thought. ‘The whole aquarium’s funding apparently got started with them adopting these from the… Basilius Wildlife Preservation Initiative some 25 years ago.’ You frown, letting out an impressed sound. Iowa bends over to read it herself, and you go on, ‘That’s incredible. The whole Tundra Zone was made under supported public funding… and the Kishin Metro Aquarium was built around it. This just happens to be one part of a whole initiative by the Taiyouga Conservation Fund.’

You let out a low whistle, as does Tenryuu… who had cozied up to you just as Iowa did, the three of you oddly huddling around the information panel like some odd three-headed beast. Iowa runs a finger along one of the lines, letting out a curious hum as she read through it herself.

‘Kind of odd for there to be a bird in an aquarium, right?’ Tenryuu raises herself, frowning as she watches two of the penguins slide into what looked – and probably was – a pool of cold water. ‘I mean, I can get fish, but it says here that this whole zone looks like it belongs in a zoo or something… not a lot of fish here.’

‘Well, it does seem like it’s a little forced.’ Iowa puts her own opinion in, nodding. ‘Still, says here that the whole aquarium was built around the ideals that made the penguin enclosure… maybe it’s just out of respect or something? You don’t bite the hand that feeds you and all that.’

Iowa taps the panel.

‘They did get this aquarium its initial funding, if nothing else.’

‘Heh.’ Tenryuu stretches, holding the bags up. ‘Those guys are pretty cute, huh?’

You realize she’s talking to you.

>‘Yup.’
>‘Not an animal person.’
>‘I prefer…’ (Name animal)
>Write-In

>>777804
>>‘Yup.’

>>777804
>>‘Yup.’
Penguins are objectively the best birds.

>>777804
>>‘Yup.’

>>777804
>>‘Yup.’

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‘Yup.’ You agree, turning to an adult pair in the enclosure, seated on one of the ice-covered rocks. ‘They’re adorable, alright.’

‘I know, right?’ Tenryuu squeals, turning to the glass… and pressing herself against it again, letting out disturbingly satisfied sighs and squeals. ‘Look at that one, look at that one! It’s sliding!’ She turns to you, pointing in the direction of – indeed, a sliding penguin – that was doing it, webbed feet first.

‘Don’t you feel cold pressing up against the glass like that?’ You inquire jokingly.

Tenryuu, suddenly aware of herself, pushes herself away from the glass, turning a little red and crossing her arms.

‘Why? Should I?’

‘No, but… don’t you? I think it’s almost refrigeration levels in here.’ You inquire seriously. The place didn’t look much different from the entrance, but it really did live up to its name. It must have been close to zero if it wasn’t already. ‘If I took of my jacket I’d be shivering more than I already am.’

‘You’re shivering?’ She gives you a flat look, seemingly in disbelief.

‘Just because you don’t see it doesn’t mean I’m not.’ You mutter defensively. ‘This is like one of those air-conditioned buildings… must cost a fortune to keep it like it is.’

‘Probably does. They have a miniature iceberg in there – it probably takes a fortune to keep this whole thing running…’ Tenryuu lets out a sound of realization, nodding to herself right after. ‘Which is why they have the penguins around. Huh, didn’t know these little guys were such moneymakers. That’s some Tatsuta-level foresight for you.’

‘Sorry?’ You frown, not understanding where she came from.

She gestures to the penguins, taking a superior tone of voice.

‘The penguins are a draw, see. Like the other attractions, they’re here to show off the animals or whatever… but they’re also around to help the place make money.’ She begins matter-of-factly. ‘People like cute things, yeah, and they respond well to good things. Enough for them to buy stuff and endorse or do whatever with this place. It’s a money-raker, see? I mean, they’re cute… but they weaponized it. In, you know… the business sense.’ She gives a satisfied not. ‘I wouldn’t be surprised if they had a whole shelf of merchandise in the souvenir shop on the way out.’

Iowa detaches herself from you as she finishes. Tenryuu could be surprisingly insightful at times.

‘That does explain a lot. They are cute.’

‘You damn right they – look at that tiny one! It’s tripping into the water!’

The both of them squeal and giggle as they press up against the glass, oblivious to all else.

>‘Who’s Tatsuta?’ (Inquire)
>‘You think they’d notice if we tried to sneak one back?’ (Joke)
>Leave them with the penguins, go look at something else
> ‘Let’s go look at the others.’ (Leave the penguins with them)
>Write-In

>>777927
>>‘You think they’d notice if we tried to sneak one back?’ (Joke)

>>777927
>>‘Who’s Tatsuta?’ (Inquire)

>>777927
>>‘You think they’d notice if we tried to sneak one back?’ (Joke)

>>777927
>>‘Who’s Tatsuta?’ (Inquire)
Need to confirm whether she's alive or dead

>>777927
>'You think they’d notice if we tried to sneak one back?’ (Joke)

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‘You think that they’d notice if we tried to sneak one back?’ You joke.

Pushing herself away form the glass looking into the enclosure, Tenryuu immediately adopts a thoughtful pose. Even from where you were standing you could hear the gears clicking in her head as they whirred and turned. Her eyes dart between the view of the baby penguins running to their parents on one of the ice-covered rocks to the floor, to you, and back again to the enclosure. Minutes pass by worryingly, and you take the chance before she actually did think that you were serious about the proposition. You’re not sure how Nagato would react – let alone The Admiral – if she found out that you’d stolen a juvenile penguin and snuck one back into the base.

‘I’m joking.’ You make yourself clear, grimacing. Tenryuu, predictably, slumps her shoulders as the words leave your mouth… confirming that, indeed, she had already begun concocting some sort of gameplan to gain herself one of the enclosure’s dozen or so inhabitants. ‘Tenryuu.’

‘Yeah, I… know you are.’ She lets out a sad whine, longingly looking to the baby penguins… which had come up as close as they could to the viewing area, curiously looking upwards to their audience. Tenryuu lets out a sad noise, pressing herself up against the screen… and giving you a tearful look, as if fully expectant for you to empathize with her penguin-less state.

There were a great number of people that could pull that off well, and Tenryuu, to her credit, was one of them. She actually looked adorable enough for you to consider the notion that you could probably get away with it if you lied about needing a penguin for anti-Abyssal warfare… until you realize that there was no way that this would go down well for any of the parties involved.

Although, you do get an odd picture of a baby penguin dressed like Samidare letting out squeaky noises taking point for your Squadron.

‘Tenryuu.’ You take a warning tone, which Tenryuu heeds. She crosses her arms, pouting and looking away from the babies on the floor of the exhibit, to your relief, if slight.

‘I know that you’re joking.’ Tenryuu insists, looking much sadder than she had been when entering the enclosure, muttering to herself. You believe that she had definitely not taken it as a joke. ‘I’m not daft, you know.’

‘Sure you were.’ You narrow your eyes, before looking around. ‘Where’s Iowa?’

As you see Iowa’s bright features pointing to the denizens of the enclosure like a child who had just seen what she wanted for her birthday.

‘Iowa.’ You begin slowly. ‘No.’

‘But they’re adorable.’ She lets out a childish protest – it was amazing how much she sounded like Samidare at the moment. ‘They won’t miss one.’

‘No.’

Iowa pouts, looking away.

>Stick around the Penguin Enclosure
>Move on to another exhibit within the Tundra
>Go to another exhibit (Specify)
>Write-In

>>777994
>>Move on to another exhibit within the Tundra
Nein

>>777994
>>Move on to another exhibit within the Tundra
We'll have to get them both plush penguins when we leave.

>>777994
>>Move on to another exhibit within the Tundra

>>777994
>>Move on to another exhibit within the Tundra

>>778002
Should see if we actually got anything else for the others back at base as well. In not, maybe small plushies and gifts for everyone.

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You decide to drag them away form the Penguins before they decide to follow through with anything stupid enough that could end up in arrests and humiliation… and probably a very distressed pair of bird parents. It’s a bit of an effort, however, you find, to take Tenryuu away from the view of the swimming birds. Iowa, initially a little reluctant, decided to defer the judgment to you… Tenryuu was more than engrossed watching the baby penguins trip and fall and be fished out of the water by their concerned parental units. It takes close to ten minutes, but you manage to drag her away from the viewing area, much to the amusement and confusion of the other visitors into this section of the enclosure.

You move past the penguin enclosure into the next section of the Tundra Zone… which was a corridor lined with tiny aquariums featuring the smaller marine life that had the North Pole as its home. Iowa, seeing one of the tanks, becomes instantly fascinated by the shrimp, much to your surprise, reading off the information panel on the micro-organisms that lived under the ice. You yourself find it hard not to stop at the smaller aquariums… where at the end, you see a large one, housing a jellyfish that was twice your size. Tenryuu and Iowa take a little longer to pry themselves away from this particular display – The Lion’s Mane, pressing the information panel recordings for small lectures on the creature as it bobbled up and down the relatively tiny tank.

Ten minutes later, you move on.

Surprisingly, it became a lot colder the deeper you went into the zone. It was probably as big as Teitan High, now that you think about it… this place wasn’t so much an aquarium as it was a marine life preserve, really – you estimate it to be at least half a mile end-to-end, judging by how big this place was. You pass by what looked like an empty tank, where the crowd seemed to be the most packed compared to the other two. The enclosure was about the size of the manatee pool… and left almost no room for you to maneuver – the viewing port into the large tank was a lot more constrained compared to the Manatee Reserve’s. A little more down the hall is another corridor towards another exhibit, but no one seemed intent to move on from here.

You don’t even know what was in this particular aquarium. People were so packed at the front you couldn’t tell just what it held. You crane your neck to get a better view… and make out someone who was dressed in the same manner as the Keeper ushering people back from the large screen view.

‘I wonder what’s in here?’ Iowa inquires of you. You shrug in return – the way the ramp was built, you could barely get a glimpse of whatever was in there.

‘Who knows?’ Tenryuu frowns. ‘Don’t think it can beat the penguins, though.’

You choose not to answer that.

>Stay here
>Head to the next exhibit
>Go to another exhibit (Specify)
>Write-In

>>778069
>>Stay here
It's polar bears, isn't it?

>>778069
>>Stay here

>>778069
>>Stay here
Can't think of what it may be, so I'm going to say Spongebob

>>778069
>Stay here

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‘Let’s get a closer look.’ You suggest. You’re a bit curious as to why there were so many people here – the place looked empty… but you supposed that it was probably from the people blocking the view. You notice that the viewing port for this particular exhibit was different – for one, you see the reinforced bolts around the frame of the glass – which was probably really, really thick to supplement the tank’s contents.

The pool was a little dark, too… you notice that there’s a sort of canopy up keeping light coming in to a minimum – artificial as it is, considering the whole section of the aquarium seemed to be holed off from the rest of the world in some sort of state-of-the-art climate control system. You can still feel the chills from under your Daughter’s Shroud; Iowa follows behind you – you give a tell-tale glance, seeing she is just as amused as you – while Tenryuu is at your side, frowning as she tries to crane herself to get a better view of whatever it was that inhabited the vast darkness of the tank.

‘What’s everyone looking at?’ You ask, almost stupidly. No one answers you, muttering among themselves as they look into the deep vastness of the tank.

No one needed to.

The first thing you notice is its horn. Long and deadly-looking, it had a certain elegance to it in a spiral that looked more fashioned than natural. Its body was tube-like, long and clumsy, but streamlined enough that it could move without looking too dorky. The impossibility of its construction strikes you hard… that it would be here at all makes you almost go agape in awe. The beast rises to the canopy of its tank, where you see its fins slowly going up and down relative to its position, a low echo reaching your ears… it was ice. The top of the canopy were layers of ice. Another one of them approaches the viewing station, much to the happiness of all that were there. Some of them raise their cameras… and set them down.

‘What’s that?’ Iowa inquires, her voice barely above a whisper.

‘It’s a narwhal.’ You answer, turning to Tenryuu, who was indeed agape as you almost had been.

In front of the viewing port – more to the side, really – the man, another Keeper, probably, gestures for the small crowd to pay attention. The three of you do; you can’t say much for the others.

‘No flash photography, folks.’ The man directs. Everyone follows it without question. ‘They’ve only recently recovered… not that it stops some of you anyway, but this time I must be particularly assistant. These are our Hikaru and Sora are doing great and… I’ll take your questions now.’

No one says a thing, watching the pair float almost lazily.

‘Any questions?’

>‘How did you get Narwhals this far inland?’
>‘What did you mean by recently recovered?’
>Go to another exhibit in the Tundra
>Go to another exhibit (Specify)
>Write-In

Aaaaand taking a break. You guys talk among yourselves for a bit, eh?

>>778117
>>‘What did you mean by recently recovered?’

>>778117
>Go to another exhibit (Specify)
>Crocodiles

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>>778117
>‘How did you get Narwhals this far inland?’
Just woke up, nice to see you again Mech.

We also have an unofficial discord now: https://discord.gg/DXsehSp

>>778117
>>‘What did you mean by recently recovered?’

Session commencing. Type up in 20 minutes.

>>778127
>>778142
>>778162
>>778306

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‘What did you mean by recently recovered?’ You decide to get things going. You were curious on how they were able to get a pair of narwhals into captivity; you’d seen them in books, but never in person – now there were two lazily floating in a large tank of water.

The Male Keeper flashes a bright smile.

‘I’m glad you asked… fat man in biker gear flanked by two really pretty girls.’ You roll your eye, letting it slide. He puffs his chest to begin his tale. ‘Well, as we’re part of the Basilius Wildlife Preservation Initiative, the facility was given the task to… well, house these exotic creatures. It’s part and parcel – and we’re given the staff and the… the equipment to aid in the recovery of animals that the Initiative has deemed endangered. Of course, Abyssals are right off that list, hah!’

No one laughs.

‘As you know, this tank used to house the seals Curly, Larry and Moe before their transfer to Takenori City Memorial Aquarium a year or so back.’ He takes a business-like tone. ‘What the Initiative has done is try to turn this facility into a sort of rehabilitation center for animals with an aquatic inclination, heh…’ He gestures to the narwhals again. ‘These narwhals, Madoka and Tatsuya were found on an expedition north a few months ago by a scientific research team. Both of them had contracted a case of Abyssal Red. The crew decided they couldn’t let them be out there and – with the help of the Admiralty and the Shamans, decided to bring them back. It was a little high risk, yes, but as you can see… totally worth it.’

‘What’s Abyssal Red?’ Someone raises their hand as soon as he finishes.

‘Abyssal Red is a toxic phenomenon that occurs when a particularly powerful Abyssal unit discharges weaponry at an alarming rate.’ He says informatively. ‘We don’t exactly know what it is – that’s not our job here – only that it hold a sort of viral agent that activates when it precipitates a certain amount. Some enthusiasts think it’s some sort of fluid or their blood… but I don’t really care about that. It’s harmless in most cases… but if allowed to freeze over or boil over and if it makes contact with any organism, the consequences are deadly. These two lost their pod… and the Initiative couldn’t just leave them there.’ He gives a reassuring smile. ‘Now they’re as well as can be and we hope to release them within a year or so.’

He claps his hands together energetically.

‘We actually wanted to name them Nagato and Mutsu, but you know the Admiralty, it’s all about them naming rights.’ He rubs the back of his head. ‘Hah.’

The whole chamber erupts into snickers – save for you three.

>‘How did you get them this far inland?’
>‘How do you get to feed them? Are there any sessions?’
>Talk to Iowa and Tenryuu
>Go to another exhibit
>Leave the Tundra (Specify destination)
>Write-In

>>778344
>>‘How do you get to feed them? Are there any sessions?’

>>778344
>Talk to Iowa and Tenryuu

We should probably get going afterwards, how are we with time?

>>778344
>Talk to Iowa and Tenryuu

>>778344
>‘How did you get them this far inland?’

>>778344
>Talk to Iowa and Tenryuu

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You look to Tenryuu, who lets out a low whistle as one of the large creatures – about your height, not including the horn… or tusk – drops down to take a good view of its audience, before lazily floating out from your view, obscured by the crowd. People were huddled in front, preventing anyone else from getting a better view… which was why you felt a hand on your shoulder, courtesy of Iowa, who had taken to use you as a support beam of sorts so she could get her own view, being the height that she was.

‘Never seen a narwhal before?’ You chuckle, amused at their enthusiasm.

‘I know about ‘em.’ Tenryuu answers, a little defensively, craning her head to get a better view herself. ‘I just haven’t, you know, seen one this up close. I never had an escort that I had to do that went that far up north… let alone one bringing back two live specimens. I thought they didn’t do too well in captivity.’

‘They don’t… but considering that the other option was to let them die from an infection by Abyssal Red, I think they didn’t have much of a choice.’ Iowa answers in your stead, sighing. You frown as she almost makes you buckle under the weight of her full person; you take it in stride, though. ‘I don’t think they’re full grown either – would’ve been heartless to let them die just like that… and man, their whole pod, gone.’

Tenryuu nods slowly.

‘Not surprising… but I never got any news of any combat happening up north.’ She looks to the ceiling – a troubled expression upon her features. ‘If a Command Unit was caught up there enough to discharge Abyssal Red, there must have been an op… and Nagato and Mutsu being there on escort says that there wasn’t combat to speak of.’

‘Nagato and… Mutsu?’ You frown, wondering what your Sub-Commander had to do with this.

Iowa and Tenryuu give you incredulous looks, as if you had missed on some obvious detail.

‘Come on, you’re not that dull up there, are ya?’ Tenryuu grins, fully turning to you. ‘They just said that they wanted to name the both of them after those two… but the Admiralty wouldn’t allow it.’ Tenryuu jabs in the direction of the tent. ‘Why would they happen to have those names in particular, you think?’

Realization dawns on you. It did seem odd that Nagato’s name randomly came up… she must have been involved somehow for it to be so significant.

‘Nagato was probably part of the escort fleet heading to the arctic.’ Iowa pieces it together faster than you. ‘So’s that Mutsu person… whoever they are. They helped bring them back.’

‘Oh.’ You turn a little red, now only putting the connection together properly. ‘That’s pretty neat.’

Something strikes you.

‘Hang on… then why was the platypus named Houshou?’

Tenryuu immediately goes stone-faced.

‘I’m not answering that question.’

>Stay here
>Go to the next exhibit (Tundra)
>Leave the Tundra (Specify)
>Write-In

>>778406
>Go to the next exhibit (Tundra)

>>778406
>Go to the next exhibit (Tundra)

>>778406
>>Go to the next exhibit (Tundra)

>>778406
>Go to the next exhibit (Tundra)

>>778406
>>Go to the next exhibit (Tundra)
We'll ask when get back

File: WASSUP NIGGA.jpg (528 KB, 1000x667)

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‘Come on, let’s get going.’ You suggest. As much as you wanted to stay on and have a better look at the narwhals, with everyone in front you wouldn’t be given much space to fully take in and enjoy the show.

Throwing one last glance to the viewport, you begin to make your way to the next exhibit of the Tundra Zone. The place was almost as big as a shopping mall on the inside – you pass several lines of smaller aquariums, featuring tiny organisms that lived up in the arctic circle, and surprisingly, find a few crabs in the aquariums for good measure. You and Tenryuu have a short discussion on the modern aesthetic that the place seemed to take in lieu of the rustic and in-your-face painted walls of the River Mammals and the Manatee Reserve. There didn’t seem to be much here, really – although you do feel as though the place is going uphill in some way… and could use some light so you could read signs better.

The majority of the attraction here seemed to be focused on the small animals and invertebrates lined up in small aquariums, each of them with their own unique information panel. You make odd stops here and there, mostly to sate Iowa’s curiosity of the captive shrimp… you find it odd that she found it so interesting to read up on every single tidbit on the aquariums, but remember that Iowa was, of course, effectively a foreigner. Not that you were any more familiar with these creatures, mind you.

‘The Lord’s Cove.’

Tenryuu reads off the sign – you look up to see the lettering on the board… and immediately hold your shoulders, the bag almost swinging and hitting her at the sudden motion. It was unnaturally cold here – even more so than it had been near the Narwhal’s tank. There were flaps heading into another section of the zone, which you head into… and find that it was just one large pool of water… in a pool that had you almost seeing your own breath. Tenryuu and Iowa seemed fine with it… but you find it curious that the place seemed so… empty. Perhaps the cold got to them?

The pool was large and circular, something about 50 meters end to end, with several stands around like a sort of arena. There didn’t seem to be anyone else here… not even a keeper. You wonder why.

The three of you approach the pool, wondering what could be in it.

You’re answered by a white creature, about your size, curiously popping its head out… before diving again.

‘Holy shit.’ Tenryuu’s eyes take their familiar shine… and she peers right into the pool where the pale white creature once was… before looking right back at you, her face morphed in some sort of strange amalgamation of fascination, ecstasy and happiness. ‘It’s a Beluga Whale! Did you see that? That’s a Beluga Whale!’

>Write-In

>>778519
AWESOME

>>778519
>>778528
This. Also maybe mention how strangely empty the exhibit seems.

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>>778519
Neat.

>>778519
Take a photo of the moment

>>778519
Neat

File: Whale Noises.jpg (1.36 MB, 1600x1479)

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Tenryuu immediately dips her hand into the ice-cold water – you’re surprised that she doesn’t immediately draw back from the sudden drop in temperature… in fact, she moves her hand through the water enthusiastically, as if trying to draw the animal in by the odd gesture. As the pool settles again, you wonder just how she expected it to even bother with her… when its head pops out of the water, and it swims towards the wall where Tenryuu was leaning over. To your surprise, it immediately cozies up to Tenryuu’s eager nature, meeting her palm with its own affectionate bobs. You set your bags down, walking up next to her. The beluga immediately sinks back into the pool, as if alarmed by your presence… probably was, given how you look.

‘That’s a mug that’ll scare the kids away.’ Iowa teases, the beluga splashes its tail as it drops and dives, as if in agreement. You snort at Iowa’s jibe, but don’t chide her for it… after being thrown snide remarks by Nachi and Kaga on an almost daily basis… it wasn’t much to dwell on.

‘This looks like it’s an encounter pool.’ You crouch, running your hand over the sign that was set by the barrier – there were symbols on it that detailed what you could and could not do, apparently. You tap your prosthetic over one of the pictures. ‘Says here there’s no feeding, no swimming and no throwing things into the tank. Sounds reasonable enough.’ You stand, frowning as you look around. ‘Seems a bit odd that there’s no one here…’ You trail off, walking along the edge of the tank barrier, tapping the wall as you look upwards – there’s a little bit of sun coming through from what looked like a glass top, some 60 or so feet upwards, before looking around again. ‘I thought this sort of thing would be – !’

You’re immediately interrupted by the loud sound of a surfacing beluga whale… who splashes its tail onto the surface of the water. A frown etches itself onto your face as you realize that there was something odd about the beluga… you could have sworn that this one’s head was a little less curvier than it had been before, and that there wasn’t a small chip in their fin.

‘THERE’S TWO OF THEM!’ Iowa, surprisingly, is the one that squeals loudly. Before you can say anything else, she immediately mimics the motion of a mother encouraging a crawling toddler, putting both her hands into the pool and making silly noises… with Tenryuu joining her not long after.

You would too, of course… if you didn’t see just how adorably moronic the both of them appeared to act when it came to these close encounters.

Surprisingly, the gesture works… and the big beluga comes towards them, its smaller counterpart in tow. You’re impressed.

>‘Animals seem to have a strange affinity for you KanMusu, really.’
>‘You guys don’t think it’s strange no one’s around? Not even a Keeper?’
>Keep watching them
>Write-In

>>778707
>>‘Animals seem to have a strange affinity for you KanMusu, really.’
>>‘You guys don’t think it’s strange no one’s around? Not even a Keeper?’

>>778707
>>‘Animals seem to have a strange affinity for you KanMusu, really.’

>>778707
>>‘You guys don’t think it’s strange no one’s around? Not even a Keeper?’

>>778707
>‘Animals seem to have a strange affinity for you KanMusu, really.’

>>778707
>‘Animals seem to have a strange affinity for you KanMusu, really.’

File: Whatcha Think.jpg (454 KB, 724x1024)

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The belugas near the edge of the pool, into the open arms of the cooing KanMusu duo. You lean back, hands in your pockets from the cold, watching Iowa and Tenryuu make silly noises with their tongue and teeth, rubbing the sides of the pale animals. The belugas to their credit, don’t seem to mind at all being spoken to like a pair of newborn babes – you might even go as far to say they enjoyed the attention that Tenryuu and Iowa afforded the both of them. Even you have to admit – and you won’t say this out loud – that it was quite an amusing sight. Thinking back to the horses and then to the manatees, you can’t help but feel a little curious at animal mannerisms when it came to KanMusu… not that you had a large sample size to go on, but they did seem exceptionally affectionate when it came to these two.

‘Animals seem to have a strange affection for you KanMusu, really.’ You snort before letting out a small laugh, catching both their attentions. The belugas don’t swim away at the temporary halt in the administration of their ministrations, though. If anything, they looked to be more enthusiastic at a return to the petting. ‘I mean, even going back to the horses, they were all kind of, I don’t know… it felt like they liked you guys from the get-go. Must be nice.’

Iowa lets out a loud laugh… which, for some reason, makes your ears go red.

‘Well, it helps that we’re not such a mess that animals don’t second guess us.’ She answers, rolling the flabby cheeks of the larger beluga.

‘Excuse me?’ You frown, not quite getting it.

‘I don’t think you get that a lot of animals have a certain feeling when it comes to people.’ Tenryuu answers in Iowa’s stead, taking a very ‘They’re not as dumb as you think, you know.’

As if in agreement with the statement, the larger beluga splashes its tale – you swear that you see a haughty look in its eyes.

‘You can’t lie to animals.’ Tenryuu says solemnly, turning back to her own beluga. ‘You can lie to people, to us, but to the fish, the birds and these big guys? You might as well tell ‘em that you threw your mom’s sweater from your last holiday out the window.’ She makes the strange noises again, much to the apparent happiness of the beluga. ‘Ain’t that right, you poindexter? Who’s a cute beluga? Who’s a cute beluga? You are!’

‘Honestly, Tenryuu, let it have its dignity.’ Iowa jibes. ‘He’s not a dog, you know.’

Suddenly, a bright glow of light arrives. You raise your hand to your good eye… and feel a pulsing sensation from underneath your eye, as if it was in resonance… and come face-to-face with a Tenryuu clad in full rigging.

She climbs onto the barrier…

>‘Tenryuu, what are you doing?’ (Ask)
>‘I don’t think that you should be doing this…’ (Try to convince her that it’s a bad idea)
>‘Do whatever you want.’ (Clean your hands of the affair)
>Write-In

>>778836
>‘Tenryuu, what are you doing?’ (Ask)

>>778836
>>‘Tenryuu, what are you doing?’ (Ask)

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>>778836
>>‘Tenryuu, what are you doing?’ (Ask)
AND THEN THE KEEPER WALKED IN

>>778836
>‘I don’t think that you should be doing this…’ (Try to convince her that it’s a bad idea)

>>778836
>Write-In
"OH NO YOU DON'T MISSY! WE ARE ON HOLIDAY AND WE ARE NOT GOING TO GET ARRESTED!" (Grab her arm and attempt to stop her by force)

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‘Tenryuu,’ you try to keep your voice as calm as possible; jumping onto conclusions was a very bad thing and that was the worse possible thing to do now; Tenryuu, while a little hyper, of course wouldn’t do such a thing, ‘what are you doing?’

She gives you an incredulous look.

‘Playing with the belugas, of course.’

‘I can see that. Why… the rigging?’ You straighten your jacket, hoping against hope that it wasn’t what you had assumed. ‘Wh – Why did you summon your gear?’

‘Come on, Commander, don’t be silly…’ She takes a neutral tone, one that eases you a little. Maybe she just felt it was natural; maybe it was out of habit or that she wanted to, in her own way, show you – however possible – how your inquiry had lead to this; she wouldn’t be so crass as to actually think that this would be acceptable, would she?

There was no way Tenryuu was actually intending to jump into the pool and actually zoom around having a ball with the belugas… right?

‘Come on, you gotta give a little more stimulation than just baby noises and a head pats!’ She gestures to the two eager belugas, who had their mouths open as though letting out silent cheers for their new playmate. ‘Ain’t that right, you two?’

The both of them raise their tails and bring them down, splashing. Tenryuu raises her arms over her head, humming cheerfully… and Iowa smirks in amusement – she would not be behind you on this little endeavor.

You almost scream.

>Pull her off the wall (Roll a 1d6 each)
>‘Do whatever you want.’ (Clean your hands of the affair)
>Write-In

Rolled 3 (1d6)

>>778879
>>Pull her off the wall (Roll a 1d6 each)
IOWA HELP

Rolled 4 (1d6)

>>778879

Rolled 3 (1d6)

>>778879
>Pull her off the wall (Roll a 1d6 each)
DONT DO ANYTHING STUPID!

>>778891
>>778895
>>778896
You approximately have a 33 percent chance of getting this right.

Rolled 1 (1d6)

>>778879
>Pull her off the wall (Roll a 1d6 each)

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>>778923
Fuuuuuuuuuuck!

Rolled 3 (1d6)

>>778879

>Pull her off the wall (Roll a 1d6 each)
TENRYUU NO TENRYUU STOP

File: losing hope.gif (1.78 MB, 265x257)

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Hopefully we won't spend the evening in a jail cell for this...

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>>778935
I'm more concerned about word of this getting back to the killer Submarine.

>>778955
Well, thank god she's not a sub.

Rolled 4 (1d6)

>>778879
>Pull her off the wall (Roll a 1d6 each)

>>778904
This statement does not comfort me in any shape, way, or form.

>>778879
>>Write-In
TENRYUU THINK ABOUT THE KILLER SUBMARINE WHO WILL MURDER YOU AND EVERYONE ELSE BACK AT BASE FOR ONE MISTAKE WE MAKE

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You open your mouth… and find that it emits a sound much too late to keep Tenryuu from doing whatever it was that had she had in mind, but the moment she did a rather acrobatic flip you knew that whatever you could have said probably wouldn’t have made a difference. She lands on the water… which, surprisingly, doesn’t splash – you see her descent unnaturally slow down and she lands with no more than a light ripple amid the excited beluga motions. Tenryuu doesn’t pay attention to you, not at all, letting out a cheerful noise as the belugas circle her and do happy leaps, splashing over her dress – you wonder if she had the forethought to actually know that she was in her new clothes pulling this stunt off.

‘Come on, you two, let’s see how fast you can cut it with the Dragon of Heaven!’

Tenryuu immediately drops onto all fours, zooming at a pace that you would have pegged to be the equal of any sprinter of the upper echelons of the sport… but probably a light brisk walk for KanMusu such as her. Tenryuu does laps around the pool, the belugas following her at their own pace, slightly lagging behind at times and at others, getting a nod head. Tenryuu doesn’t seem to be trying to actively outpace them; she actually looks like she’s using her own form to cut odd corners. The belugas, to their credit, actually do look like they’re enjoying themselves. The tank barrier is a little low… but Tenryuu, to her credit doesn’t ride it out to splash you or Iowa.

For that, at least, you can extend your appreciation.

‘Come on, you two fatties!’ Tenryuu teases; for some reason, you clutch your chest at that remark. ‘You going to tell me you’re going to let a little old KanMusu like me beat you guys in your own house?’

One of the belugas attacks Tenryuu – you call out for her to move out of the way… except it wasn’t. Tenryuu, using her KanMusu strength, grabs the smaller beluga in an odd catch and skate routine that reminded you of a ballet. The animal lets out happy noises as Tenryuu carries the animal overhead, grinning at you and Iowa as she passes you by, barely missing you on the pass.

The sound of something falling behind you catches your attention… and you see the Male Keeper from before, carrying a sign.

SHH IT’S RESTING TIME

Your blood runs colder than the air around you.

‘Wh – What are you doing in here? Th – This section is closed o – !’

The beluga jumps from Tenryuu’s hands and back into the water with a loud splash on the other side of the tank.

The Male Keeper looks horrified.

‘The – The belugas! What are you doing to the belugas?’

He marches up to the tank, looking absolutely livid.

>Apologize on Tenryuu’s behalf
>Declare Tenryuu to come here and apologize for her recklessness
>Clean your hands of the matter and let Tenryuu take the brunt of whatever is to come
>Write-In

>>779705
>Declare Tenryuu to come here and apologize for her recklessness

>>779705
>>Declare Tenryuu to come here and apologize for her recklessness

>>779705
>Apologize on Tenryuu’s behalf

>>779705
>>Declare Tenryuu to come here and apologize for her recklessness

>>779705
>Apologize on Tenryuu’s behalf

>>779705
>>Declare Tenryuu to come here and apologize for her recklessness

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‘Is that your tossing the belugas like beach balls?!’ He clutches his cheeks, looking positively appalled at the situation in the pool. Tenryuu, however, remained oblivious, zooming around without a care in the world, the belugas trailing behind her.

‘I – !’

You think fast… the only thing that comes is the image of yourself prostrating in apology, but you wouldn’t do this alone.

‘TENRYUU!’

Tenryuu stops… and slowly makes her way to the edge of the encounter pool, hopping down and walking up to the three of you, her cheeks flushed.

‘Oh, uh…’

The man bursts.

‘You… urgh… this isn’t a water park! It’s a research aquarium dedicated to the expansion of knowledge on the denizens of the sea! Just because you’re a big shot doesn’t give you the right to – URGH!’

He mutters a plethora of swear words under his breath.

‘We apologize for disturbing your belugas, sir.’ You bow, gesturing for Tenryuu to approach. ‘Tenryuu.’

The moment she does, you take the back of her head… and force her into a bow. She fights against it, but not by much.

‘On her behalf, I’d like to say that she didn’t mean any harm by it and thought that…’ You struggle to continue, your throat itching from the cold. ‘Well, whatever it is, sir, none of us meant any harm and I’ll take full responsibility for any… damage that occurred in this rare lack of good judgment on her part.’ You fumble for words, trying to find the right way to put it. ‘I… again, I – we – would like to extend our apologies in disturbing the enclosure.’

You don’t dare look up.

‘It’s not an enclosure. It’s an encounter pool… and it’s meant to be closed!’ He huffs, approaching the both of you. ‘What do you think you’re doing in a closed section of the exhibit?!’

‘I didn’t see a sign.’ Tenryuu mutters.

You hiss at her to keep her voice down.

‘Look… I don’t want anymore drama for today and it’s 30 minutes from closing time anyway.’ He sighs, pinching the bridge on his nose. ‘Just… Just stay away from here, all right? Everyone’s on edge, everyone’s not having the best of times… and I’d really like your little threesome to just be on your way and out of here before I call security on you.’

‘We’re supposed to meet with – !’

‘Do I look like I care?’ He cuts you off, annoyed. ‘You’re lucky I’m not calling the press on your asses! KanMusu Harassing Pregnant Beluga! How does that sound for a headline?’

Seeing Tenryuu move for a retort, you clutch Tenryuu’s wrist and drag her away. Iowa follows, carrying the bags. It’s some time before you’re outside the exhibit… and feel the full force of Tenryuu’s own annoyed glare.

>‘Why are you giving me that look?’ (Calmly)
>‘What did you expect me to do? You jumped into an enclosure!’ (Angry)
>‘Drop it, Tenryuu’ (Tell her to drop the issue)
>Ignore her
>Write-In

>>780173
>>‘Drop it, Tenryuu’ (Tell her to drop the issue)

>>780173
>‘Drop it, Tenryuu’ (Tell her to drop the issue)

>>780173
>>‘Drop it, Tenryuu’ (Tell her to drop the issue)

>>780173
>>‘Drop it, Tenryuu’ (Tell her to drop the issue)

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‘Drop it, Tenryuu.’ You’re not in the mood for this. Right now, you’re working on finding your way to a washroom of sorts so she can change into something. ‘I’m not in the mood to talk about – !’

However, like always, she chose that point to step on your buttons, blatantly choosing not to heed the veiled warning that came with your tone.

‘I can’t believe you actually made me – made me bow like that!’ Tenryuu snaps at you. You attempt to turn away, but being as quick as she was – is – she immediately moves back into your immediate view, baring her teeth in a fashion that you found grating as her little activity had been back there. ‘That was humiliating! If you wanted me to say sorry I would’ve said sorry all on my own – you didn’t have to go ahead and make do… do that, you know?!’

You open your mouth to throw a cutting retort, but calm yourself down. As her Commander, you had bigger things on your mind – The Keeper had already arranged for the three of you to have dinner with her and go on and have a ride home after, but after that little jaunt in the pool, courtesy of Tenryuu’s uncharacteristic thrill-seeking, had left you in a lurch. By all accounts, you reckon that The Male Keeper had been kind enough to not antagonize you and merely told you to leave the premises… but with the recent development, you’re wondering if you could get away with going straight to the information kiosk and –

‘Hey, don’t look away from me!’ Tenryuu cries into your ear, catching you off-balance. For some reason or the other, she looks livid now, and you’re at the brunt of it. You’d told her to drop it – that there were more important things that needed tending to, but for some reason or another she had not seen it that way and had chosen to not even find a washroom to change in herself, but to try to draw out that dark swirl in your gut for a round. ‘Just because you’re a Commander doesn’t mean that you can’t stomp on my dignity just like that. I did a mistake and somehow you decided it was some big and important duty of yours to put your words in my mouth and just cow myself without so much as a vowel from my end.’

You wish to retort that Tenryuu had drawn all three of you into an undesirable situation and it would have probably gone worse had you not decided to make that decision… maybe. You couldn’t tell the future, but Tenryuu was your responsibility, and whatever it was, you were the one in charge and the one made to bear that little burden.

‘You know, you’re cowed, you know that?’ She sneers. ‘What do you think that's about, sir?'

Something… just goes.

>‘What was that about?! Don’t you mean what that was about?!’ (Stamp your authority)
>‘Please, go on.’ (Antagonize her)
>‘Do you want to know what I’m thinking right now?’ (Berate/Explode)
>‘Tenryuu… I just want to go home now.’ (Tired)
>Write-In

>>780321
>‘Tenryuu… I just want to go home now.’ (Tired)

>>780321
Think REALLY carefully with this one.

>>780321
>>‘Tenryuu… I just want to go home now.’ (Tired)

>>780321
>>‘What was that about?! Don’t you mean what that was about?!’ (Stamp your authority)
Once we get home, we can have as many screaming matches as we want but we need to get back there first.

>>780321
>>‘Please, go on.’ (Antagonize her)

I'll be back in a bit. I have some errands to run... but I do see that there's still a number of you that don't know the meaning of the phrase

"There's a time and a place for something". Good luck with the choice-making.

>>780321
>>‘Tenryuu… I just want to go home now.’ (Tired)
It can wait until we get home.

>>780341
>>780370
>>780422
You three fail the test.

>>780394
No, that's not what you do.

>>780378
This is the correct answer. As her Commander, you remind her that what she did was wrong and as the man bearing the flag, you're meant to shoulder the responsibility because she is your subordinate, IN or OUT of uniform. You're friendly and approachable. You're not supposed to be a pushover.

No offense, but I've given you guys this warning over a dozen times. Why the Hell do you guys keep trying to avoid conflict with your subordinates? Do you shy away from arguments in real life when they come up this often? No. You know to keep a calm head and tell them where you stand. Come on, guys, why do I have to keep telling you this?

Write-Up in 30 minutes. Majority, as always, wins.

>>780321
>>‘Tenryuu… I just want to go home now.’ (Tired)

>>780479
gotta get my thought process right. this ain't planefags style military bullshit. this one is you are the law.

>>780341
>>780370
>>780370
>>780479
Also, considering that when "I" advise it, it doesn't work, I'm going to try another approach. Almost finished. Looking for the right image.

File: okay elf.jpg (37 KB, 290x366)

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I honestly just feel deep-seated resignation right now. I don't even have a reaction image to appropriately convey the amount of 'this is fine' that I feel

>>780519
I check on this tread usually every 20 min or so. I would say we would learn eventually but that excerpt from the Strike witches quest is never wrong.

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>>780562
Too bad we don't have a sidearm

>>780540
>>780562
>>780566
Thing is, I like you guys, but I'm really tired of telling you folks not to choose the Waifu option. It just... detracts from everything I've explained. When I told you folks to just leave the room with Kaga's whole section you folks stayed and expected some kind of white knight reply instead of hot sex, which was what you got. It's okay for you to bear your feelings, but you guys keep forgetting - and I've been highlighting it:

You're a Commander.

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>"There's a time and place for something"

Every time I've heard that phrase, it means to save the argument for later. Every. Single. Time.

But whatever. These last two threads have made me not like Tenryuu much anyway.

>>780581
It meant exactly that though. We shut her up because we can and get shit done. We can argue all we want later if she still wants to.
I still like Tenryuu I'm just a bit angry that she'd go for a swim in the first place.

>>780581
It means you can be angry at some points and it can be fine, and you can be calm at some points and it won't suit the situation. You have to stomp your foot and tell them just who you are and why you stand by things but you also have to watch what you say. That's life, you know - one of the points of me running this was to echo the "Loser is thrust into a situation above his head". A kind of simulation.

You can get angry, but at the right time. You can stay calm, but there are times you have to show that you mean business. You can't just keep siding and avoiding conflict - that's just not human. On that front, as well, you have to choose your battles. Plus, you already knew Tenryuu had her doubts about her ability in you to actually show your spine. This was that chance.

>>780614
Tenryuu would actually have appreciated you being angry with her. It'd actually clear out some of her doubts on if you're fit to lead.

Now you're back to square one from majority vote.

>>780341
>>780370
>>780422
>>780479

>>780619
welp, just means that we're going to pull some bullshit out our ass or just grind the job till we show her what for.

>>780614
And the tired option could easily mean the exact same thing, just with a different tone. That's another problem I've always had with this quest in particular. There are times where I have no idea what option to pick because I honestly don't know what the Commander will say or do.

>>780634
Well I agree that happens a lot but this time it was fairly clear I think.

>>780657
Not really. The Authority option sounds like we're losing out shit, while the Tired option could've been interpreted as telling her to stow it until we're back at base.

>>780666
>losing out shit
*losing our shit

>>780634
That line is your initial response. What comes after is usually in the context in line with that response - however THEY react, however, is not something you have control of. Personality hints are given as you engage more in conversation with them.

And you have to take this with the consideration that with a choice you make there is almost always no backtracking or fixing it in the future. That's the system. I'm not planefag and I won't detail what exactly comes after because you'll have to predict if she'll respond well to one approach or another. If you're unsatisfied with the options, the Write-Ins are there for you to put in your own approach.

I think I've been as blatant with you guys as possible without encouraging powergaming.

>>780666
>‘Do you want to know what I’m thinking right now?’ (Berate/Explode)

THIS was the lose your shit option. I even made it clear this was the lose your shit option. The one at the top was you stamping your authority, taking a disciplinary tone and approach. THIS was the option where you lose your shit.

>>780683
We're afraid of that sub a little too much i think. So we're trying to avoid starting any shit so she doesn't find out.

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‘Tenryuu,’ you begin tiredly; after what had happened, there was no bone in your that wanted to pursue conflict with Tenryuu; even after what she had done, you think that what you’d done sufficed. ‘I just want to go home now, all right? We can talk about that when we get things settled, all right?’

Your tone is as flat as you can manage, but it’s hard to keep the annoyance out of your tone. Right now, you had other things to busy yourself with and that was how you would take this course of discussion. Tenryuu, however, doesn’t seem the least bit pleased with your approach; something in her eye flashes – a sort of loathing that you really felt was in line with what Nachi had thrown at you when you’d first met. It was a little… disconcerting to see that on Tenryuu’s face, especially with the whole trip going as well as it was. Still… you didn’t feel like pursuing it, and look away, your thoughts a little more clouded than you’d like them to be.

It hardly seemed the time to start a fight with your feisty Light Cruiser.

‘That’s it?’ She looks at you, her jaw looking a little stiff. She raises an accusing finger at you, which you frown at but don’t bother to answer. You don’t think much of it either way – you were too tired to bother with this; as far as you were concerned, ‘You’re just going to skip it over like that because you can’t bother getting it up for one talk?’

You feel yourself rise… but stop a little before the top. You didn’t want to make the situation any worse than it already was by taking a tone.

‘Look, we’re already in trouble as is, and whatever you want on your end, I’ll give it. I’m sorry, all right, but I didn’t – ?’

Tenryuu stops you with a glare, scanning you with her eye as she raises her hand in a gesture. For someone that had landed you into hot water, she was behaving… oddly. She unbuttons the top of her shirt, biting her bottom lip as she struggles with something herself; you take a step back – she’d turned purple for a bit… and looked like she was about to explode.

She doesn’t, however, but turns on her heel and walks towards Iowa, grabbing her bag and marching off somewhere.

‘Fine.’ She gives you a look over her shoulder, furrowing her brow at you. ‘You know what? Fine. Whatever. I’m sorry; I’m going to get changed.’ She takes a tone of finality, clicking her tongue audibly as she walks away from the both of you – probably to find a washroom. ‘Might as well get something done.’

You let out a sigh… and Iowa approaches you immediately after, a concerned look on her features.

‘Commander, do you mind if I speak to you for a while?’

>‘I’m all ears, Iowa.’
>‘I’m kind of not in the mood.’
>‘What? You have something to say, too?’
>Write-In

>>780730
>>‘I’m all ears, Iowa.’
killing abyssals is so much simpler than this.

>>780730
>>‘I’m all ears, Iowa.’

>>780730
>>‘I’m all ears, Iowa.’

>>780730
>>‘I’m all ears, Iowa.’

Just to say that I'm taking a small nap after this post.

>>780735
Women are complicated. That's the lesson here.

>>780730
>‘I’m all ears, Iowa.’

File: She's Not MECH's Waifu.png (998 KB, 800x1200)

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‘I’m all ears, Iowa.’

‘Far from it for me to judge you… but you do remember our conversation about Lionheart, don’t you?’ She inquires.

It wasn’t as if it was a memory from high school… you’d had that conversation with her just a couple of hours back.

‘It was just this afternoon… I don’t have a memory that faded that I’d forget talking with you about a book.’

She nears you – barely half an arm’s length away; you feel a swirl of discomfort growing in the pit of your stomach. For some reason, you saw Nagato instead Iowa, standing in front of you.

‘You told me that you appreciated Hyuga the most out of the ones that could have taken the throne – that you disagreed with Maxwell, Joseph and the rest when it came to them staking claims to it.’ She looks at you seriously. ‘You valued that Hyuga knew of where he stood; his position… what would happen if he became king, his own fallacies, that you valued the wisdom he had in recognizing the throne as a burden and a responsibility; that he deserved it the most because you think that he was the most aware of the changes that would happen to anyone that would ascend.’

‘Where are you taking this?’

It seemed strange for her to bring it up so candidly.

‘Are you afraid of your position of Commander, sir?’

You look away, your chest feeling a little tight.

‘What brought that on?’

Iowa grabs the collar of your jacket, straightening it out casually.

‘You’re a lot more hesitant when it comes to your team than I’ve seen… in comparison to mine, but the contrast is there.’ She gives you an assuring look to go with thinned lips. ‘My Admiral – my father – he loved me. I know he did, and Heaven knows I love him back… but he knew that I was also his subordinate, and he couldn’t put one ahead of the other… so he separated the both of them, but I knew that if I ever stepped out of line, he’d have my ass.’

‘You’re driving it a little hard; I think I’m missing something.’ You frown. ‘I don’t think I’m too soft.’

‘I think you’re a lot more hesitant than you should be.’ She approaches you again, running her thumb along your collar. ‘You know what your position is, and just what it comes with – you’re trying too hard to be the nice guy because you’re letting your fear have a bigger hold on you than you should.’

She bites her lip, looking hesitant to go on.

‘Tenryuu and the others need you to be at your best. I’m an outsider looking in… I can’t…’ She pats your chest with both hands. ‘Tenryuu… she needs you to be her Commander first and considerate friend second. I know that it’s hard for you to understand, but she… she wanted to be chastised. What you did back there, maybe it’s just something I don’t get, but…’

Iowa grimaces… if only a little.

‘I think she wanted you to take the fall and lay it into her right after. You know, like professionals.'

>Write-In

>>780941
>"She'll receive discipline later. It'd be better than doing it here and now. Quite frankly, I might have taken things too far if I had just gone off without having time to think about what I'm going to say."

>>780941
>If that what you think i should've done, than who am i to turn down good advice.
totally MECH's waifu

>>780993
I can support this.

>>780993
this works

>>780993
Agreed.

Just a quick announcement. After this next post, I'll be going on a hiatus. Going on a bit of an unexpected road trip, courtesy of friends who saw it fit to foot my bill without my consent - to which they have my thanks - on the condition I be the only lard bucket that doesn't get drunk and keeps them from doing anything stupid.

Sometimes it just pays to be Muslim.

>>781942
How long? A week? Or just two days or so?

>>781958
Monday or Sunday, latest. Depends how drunk they get.

>>781942
well, have fun anyway

>>781942
Sounds fun, enjoy your trip.

>>781942
Have fun, Mech.

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‘That’s a bit of an assumption to take of me, considering that you’ve barely known me… what?’ You frown. It did sound a little high and mighty to you. ‘Four days?’

She doesn’t lose a step, letting out an amused sound.

‘You’re a little hesitant when it comes to taking a left or right with your girls – I don’t think I need to stick around for more than an hour to think that you’re trying to be someone who’s likeable over someone who actually wants to administer authority.’

You hesitate a little – she may not have been entirely accurate, but she had hit rather… close.

‘I don’t think I’m either. I’m just trying to do my job.’

‘I know you are.’ She nods, in a friendly, assuring way, her brows furrowing as she looks to where Tenryuu had headed not moments ago. ‘That’s why I’m offering advice. You don’t look like you’re too fresh for a leadership role, but you do look like you’re scared of making people not like you.’

You rub the back of your neck. It reminded you of a teacher chastising a student.

‘So what do you think I should go with?’ You half-joke, snorting. ‘If you think I’m trying too much to endear yourself, I don’t think the option of being a smarmy unlikable jockey is going to merit me any points on the scale.’

‘No one’s telling you to change your ways.’ You take a step back, not quite intimidated, but Iowa seemed rather… insistent on pursuing this. ‘I’m telling you that you have to be a lot more assertive and take pride in who you are – I know self-loathing when I see it… and you really need to get the ball running and call yourself a Commander instead of you. Whoever you think you were… doesn’t matter anymore. Tenryuu wants you to show that she’s not the one in charge – that you are.’

‘She couldn’t just say it to my face?’

‘That’d be cheating.’ Iowa giggles unnaturally, bringing a hand to her lips. ‘She’s an intellectual, you know – she doesn’t like doing things up and in front unless there’s a bit more fun to it.’

‘And what’s this that you’re doing?’

‘It’s me bending the rules a little.’

Maybe she had a point.

‘I’ll see to a disciplinary module later, then… get her in place a bit better.’ You concede. ‘You’re right that I’m a little cloudy right now, but… I’ll make a move on gathering myself later on this matter at hand.’

To be honest, maybe you were a little more cowed than you should be.

‘You’re a good guy.’ She puts a hand on your shoulder. ‘You’re not… my type of guy, but you don’t look like the sort that’ll be dragged down by the chains.’

‘I appreciate it.’

She gives a small smile… and gives you a peck on the corner of your mouth, before pulling back.

>‘Did you just…?’ (Incredulous)
>‘Never happened.’ (What happens in Kishin Metro, stays in Kishin Metro)
>‘Vanzer custom?’ (Inquire)
>Write-In

>>782028
>>‘Vanzer custom?’ (Inquire)

See you Monday MECH

>>782028
>‘Vanzer custom?’ (Inquire)

>>782028
>‘Never happened.’ (What happens in Kishin Metro, stays in Kishin Metro)

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You turn a little red, surprised at the gesture. Iowa, though… looks serene and serious, a determined look etched onto her brow as she puts her hands behind her and gives you another nod, satisfied with… something. You’d been kissed before, and even though Iowa wasn’t bad on the eyes you feel a little confused on actually being on the receiving end of a woman who had been crying in the shower at your naked presence. Although it didn’t cross you to try that again, the bolts and nuts in your brain call for calm and a rational approach. Iowa had not been big on affection since she arrived… so to assume that she liked you more than she said – enough to give you one right there on the kisser, was right out. You lock onto the most simple of explanations.

‘Was that a Vanzer custom?’

She makes a face of incredulity – probably at how quickly you’d deduced that it was indeed such. You would pat yourself on the back for correctly assuming that it was indeed one and not one of those fleeting, flirty, more-than-friendly initiating maneuvers that you’d seen on too many a film. She finally lets out a sigh and what appeared to be an amused snort, putting her hands on her hips and puffing her chest, confirming that your assumption that you’d been right on point with your deduction.

‘Yes.’

You felt a bit smart for not jumping to conclusions. Imagine, getting all worked up over a girl kissing you? Nonsensical. She didn’t even have the slightest point of affection outside of a small bit of respect.

Right?

‘For a place that’s so damn clean, they have the worst toilets in existence.’ You hear a familiar grumble… and see Tenryuu in a strange choice of wear – one in sharp contrast to the business-wear that she worn before.

Tenryuu actually looked like a lady of the night.

The whole ensemble just seemed too tight for her to fit in – and the way that her curves were just being hugged by the tank top and tiny vest was a little bit too… risque for you to deem appropriate for anywhere but the beach. The short cut jeans were the weirdest change, as they seemed to ride up into her inner thigh and pronounce herself a lot more… blatantly than you would have expected from someone of her commission.

Although, you have to admit – that was a nice, plump pair of –

‘Don’t say a word.’ Tenryuu points a finger at you, still. She takes a dangerous tone… much to Iowa’s amusement. ‘If it’s not about our next course of action, I don’t want to hear it.’

>‘Let’s hit the souvenir shop. If we ever see him, we can at least tell him we’re buying stuff as an apology.’
>‘Information Kiosk anyway. He’ll understand if he catches us still around.’
>‘Let’s head outside like he told us to. We can wait there.’

ADDITIONAL
>Don’t say a word
>Compliment her
>Make fun of her choice of wear

>>782207
>‘Let’s head outside like he told us to. We can wait there.’

>>782207
>Don’t say a word

>>782207
>‘Information Kiosk anyway. He’ll understand if he catches us still around.’

>Don’t say a word

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>>782207
>‘Information Kiosk anyway. He’ll understand if he catches us still around.’
>Don’t say a word

Best girl.

>>782207
>‘Let’s hit the souvenir shop. If we ever see him, we can at least tell him we’re buying stuff as an apology.’
>Don't say a word.

Come on, we should at least get Tenryuu a stuffed toy penguin before we leave. On the sly, of course.

Fucking hell guys. I put in 18 extra hours of overttime fixing a mistake that is delaying a warship's departure from drydock and you guys drop the fucking ball on the whole "CHAIN OF COMMAND" angle.

MECH, stop tossing waifu bait in front of everyone; you're trolling so hard I can't tell if you're being a serious QM or not.


>>782207
>‘Let’s hit the souvenir shop. If we ever see him, we can at least tell him we’re buying stuff as an apology.’
AND
>Don't say a word

Also buy her a damn penguin or beluga stuffed animal on the sly.

>>782340
Dude, calm the fuck down, it's not the end of the world.

>>782207
>>‘Let’s hit the souvenir shop. If we ever see him, we can at least tell him we’re buying stuff as an apology.’
You bet we're getting that plushie
>Don't say a word

>‘Let’s hit the souvenir shop. If we ever see him, we can at least tell him we’re buying stuff as an apology.’
>Don’t say a word
Cubs won btw

>QM goes off with friends while we're still on this field trip
>Will probably take another thread or two to finally get back to base
Anon was right, this really is Namek

So why exactly are ya'll voting for getting the plushie? The entire failure of that segment was that we're more concerned with being liked by a waifu than we are being a commanding officer. Wouldn't buying the plushie just make the Commander look like a pushover and validate all of Tenryuu's concerns, continue down the same path learning nothing?

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You decide to not comment on Tenryuu’s choice of wear – given her mood with you, according to Iowa, anyway… you don’t think she’d take it any better than Nachi would. There was a time and place for things… and even though you’d been told to emphasize your place as her Commander, you also knew that – as a man – to open your mouth and give her lip right now would only serve to further turn her against you. Giving a nod to Iowa, you decide your next course of action.

‘Let’s hit the souvenir shop.’ You suggest, gathering the bags. ‘If that guy catches us still on grounds… we can at least tell him we’re buying stuff as an apology.’

Trying to find the souvenir shop wasn’t that hard a task; it was right next to the exit – because that would, of course, be the appropriate place to have one – and in stark contrast to the rest of the attractions on the grounds, it had a bolder, more pronounced feeling about it – and not in a way that you would give praise. For one, there were two huge orcas – a view that you could only describe as tacky – on either side of the shop, which was built like it was some sort of jungle shack rather than a store that would fit with the aesthetic. Iowa herself mouths her confusion, wondering just who had decided to make a jungle shack as the choice of design; this wasn’t a fun fair.

Nevetheless, the three of you head inside… and instantly scrunch your faces in annoyance as you approach one of the shelves.

‘Talk about a premium.’ Tenryuu mutters, scrunching her nose as she picks up a Manatee Plush Doll and putting it back on the shelves. ‘It really is a souvenir shop…’

Iowa grimaces, picking up a Save Our Seas T-Shirt… before balking.

‘Crazy.’ She mutters, setting the T-Shirt back onto the shelves. She turns to you, giving an affirmative nod. ‘I’m going to go look around…’ She makes an odd, exaggerated accent, closing an eye and lifting her finger like a hook. ‘Maybe there’s some gold in them there hills.’

You blink incredulously.

‘Never mind.’ Iowa rolls her eyes, walking away. ‘No one ever gets that reference.’

Tenryuu, of course, follows her… giving you an opportunity to get the shopping done for yourself. Lifting one of the plush dolls – a penguin – you wonder if you can afford to actually drop so much in here.

>Keychains (Dolphins/Seals/Sharks/Manatees/Penguins) 100 Yen EACH
>Plush Doll [S] (Manatee/Shark) 1000 Yen EACH
>Plush Doll [M] (Seal/Clownfish/Whale) 2000 Yen EACH
>Plush Doll [L] (Penguin) 4000 Yen EACH
>Skeletal Model Kits (Mosasaur/Great White/Whale)
>Holographic Postcards 100 Yen EACH
>‘Save Our Seas’ T-Shirt 3000 Yen EACH
>Marine Animal Bikini/One Piece Swimsuit 6000 Yen EACH

>Buy nothing and wait outside

13050 Yen

>>785841
>x1 Plush Doll [L] (Penguin) 4000 Yen
>x1 Plush Doll [S] (Manatee) 1000 Yen

You're just spontaneously updating?

>>785841
>2 Penguin plush dolls
>1 keychain for every division member
>1 holographic postcard for every division member

That would leave us with a little over 3,000 yen.

Howdy, Mech.

>>785857
>>785864
This isn't a session. I'm just leaving this up so when I get back I don't have to type up this scene and can get to finishing up the Trip Inland Arc.

So what are gonna talk about until MECH gets back? or are we just gonna shitpost?

>>786795
Shitpost, discuss, whatever topic comes up really

You can join the discord if you want. More active discussion there than here at least. https://discord.gg/DXsehSp

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>>786795
Also, MECH sometimes comes in there. Not sure whether what he's saying is true or not considering he stated he lies, but he does post sometimes

>>785841
>eight (8) keychains
>one (1) penguin plush
its 4800 i thing, not outta hand

>>785857
>>785864
>>787214
I'm flipping coins... and was in the process of flipping coins until I realized that I'd lost my Driver's License and had to drive across town looking for it. I have it back now.

Winner decided. Type-up in 20 minutes.

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You fork the cash over the counter, the cashier giving you a stiff bow as soon as she finishes placing your purchases into your bag right after. You look around to see Iowa and Tenryuu nowhere in sight – for a moment, your worry rises, before falling again – some of the store’s shelves were high and they were more than likely just obscured by them. You pick up the bags and give a curt bow, walking outside to get yourself some fresh air and collect your thoughts. It’s not long, however, before you find your attempt at getting some peace and quiet is disturbed by a familiar face.

‘I thought I told you off the premises?’ The Male Keeper’s voice is affected and grating, but he did have the upper hand on this front, as far as accusations went.

Placing his hands on his hips and marching right up to you with a scowling face, you remind yourself that your party had been in the wrong… and he had been lenient enough to not throw your lot to the wolves at the drop of the hat; although, given his current demeanor, you’re not sure whether he was in the same mood as he was before. There was a little tick on his brow that set you down a little, and you patiently wait for him to go on – he didn’t look like he was ready to be interrupted.

‘I believe I was nice enough to let you and your… your KanMusu off without any worry or foul.’ He snarls, marching right up to you. You let out a breath, waiting for him to finish. ‘I told you explicitly that I wanted you off the premises or I would report you for your… your little play.’

‘I understand.’ You nod calmly, raising the bag that held your purchases. ‘I’m sorry for what happened before… we’re just here to make a few buys before we leave, just to show how sorry we are.’

The words that come from the back of your throat sounded dull and without conviction or interest – strangely enough – but the man seemed to… accept it. He glares at the bag, then to you, before biting his lip and looking away.

‘I suppose that everyone’s entitled to an attempt at an apology.’ The mode of his voice takes an oddly condescending quality, even as he turns around, shaking his hips in a way you find most disturbing. ‘Even those with little more value than scrap.’

‘What did you – ?’

‘Commander!’

You’re interrupted by a familiar voice – The Keeper’s – as she runs towards you, clad in jeans and t-shirt.

The man is already walking away from you – he disappears behind a trio of couples. You don’t get a word in edgewise.

‘You guys walked past me just now.’

You hadn’t noticed.

‘You know that guy?’ She looks to where the man had disappeared.

>‘It’s a bit of a long story.’ (Divert away from the issue)
>‘One of my KanMusu dropped themselves into one of the enclosures for kicks.’ (Be honest)
>‘I thought we weren’t supposed to meet until 1800?’
>Write-In

>>801878
>‘It’s a bit of a long story.’ (Divert away from the issue)
>‘I thought we weren’t supposed to meet until 1800?’
One can lead to the other, right?

>>801878
>>‘It’s a bit of a long story.’ (Divert away from the issue)
Perhaps we should save the full story for later. When we're not in a crowded public space where the general populace can overhear.

>>801918
You should really ask before you make your choices instead of making your choices and then asking what each of them do on the whole.

>>801966
Alright I'll just vote for:
>‘It’s a bit of a long story.’ (Divert away from the issue)

>>801878
>‘It’s a bit of a long story.’ (Divert away from the issue)

>>801878
>>‘One of my KanMusu dropped themselves into one of the enclosures for kicks.’ (Be honest)

>>801878
>‘It’s a bit of a long story.’ (Divert away from the issue)

>>801966
how was that impromptu vacation MECH? any good tales to tell?

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‘It’s a bit of a long story.’ You divert attention away from it the best you can; the worst thing you could do was show just how badly you – and Tenryuu – had violated her trust.

‘All right, I won’t pry.’ She quickly responds, much to your relief. ‘Listen, I’ve just got off work… and quit.’

‘Quit?’ You cock your head.

She huffs, nodding proudly.

‘Yeah, I got my last paycheck a week ago, and it’ll be enough for us until we make a decision… turned it in and said my goodbyes.’

‘That quickly?’ You question – it seemed a bit of a whirlwind affair. She’d made a decision based on your advice after having met you not two hours or so ago; if it were anyone else, you’d be chiding their idiocy.

Knowing who she was doing this for, though, changed things a bit.

‘I don’t invite folks over here often enough for it to hold.’ She grimaces – the implication that there weren’t many here to say goodbye to you stung you a litle. ‘I’ve had a lot of colleagues… but most of them, they’ve moved on. The only ones that’re staying are the ones that don’t think it’s going to be that bad, but, like I said, I don’t have enough in me to take that chance.’ She gives you a sincere look along with a lopsided smile ‘I’m just glad that we’re finally able to make a decision. It’s been a stressful month… and I’m glad that we’re able to actually, finally, you know, move on.’ ‘I didn’t know whether it’d be good to stay or go, and even with The Union actually offering something for us to bite on, I can’t say that it’s going to be sunshine… but it’s better than being near the battlefield.’

‘You made the choice,’ you answer as sagely as you can, biting your own lip, ‘it’s up to those that make the decisions that they think are best for them to live with the consequences and reap the rewards. It’s not always so simple sometimes.’

‘You made it a little more, though… I’m glad you came today.’ You find yourself turning a little red at the praise. ‘I wouldn’t have been able to come to a real conclusion if you hadn’t.’

‘Odd twist of fate, huh?’ You let out a small sound, a little hesitant now. ‘Still, don’t you find it a little… awkward to randomly ask someone that you don’t know about a life-changing decision?’

‘You’re fighting on the frontlines. That’s hardly a random person.’ She crosses her arms, that lopsided smile still there. ‘I’m glad that I’m able to get my head a little clearer now compared to before – and even though it’s a coward’s decision, I’m happy to be called that so long as my kids grow up healthy. So, that’s something I’ll be able to live with.’

That was very wise of her.

‘So, are you ready to go?’

‘Now?’

‘It’s almost 1800.’

Tenryuu and Iowa walk out of the shop just as she finishes.

>‘I think I have a little more shopping to do.’ (Keep shopping)
>Go

>>802126
>>Go
let's leave before we cause more problems.

>>802126
>>Go

>>802126
>>Go

>>802126
>Go

So what did we end up buying at the gift shop? The post about it didn't really say anything specific.

>>802147
I hope it's a special present!

>>802147
Huh. I thought I posted it.

>>785857
Won the toss.

>>802157
Ah, ok.

I feel a little bit bad about not getting the rest of our division members anything, but oh well.

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You decide to leave before anything else came up. Iowa and Tenryuu tag along right behind you as you follow the Keeper off the premises; the majority of the visitors were leaving alongside you, heading out onto the street and waiting for their buses. The Keeper, however, doesn’t – she gestures for you to follow her to the other side of the road, onto the green belt and into a short and narrow alley, which led into what looked to be a neighourhood.

‘I don’t take the bus to work.’ She explains herself, hands in her pockets and smiling to the three of you. ‘It’s a little far, but it’ll take longer if I take a bus – the whole thing goes in a loop and the schedules iffy at most with the city practically empty nowadays. It’s not like it’s a long walk, anyway… a few turns, but it saves me money.’

‘That’s your concern? Money?’ You raise an eyebrow, adjusting your eyepatch as the discomfort grows a little more than you’d like under it. ‘If it’s about rations, the Lord should have that settled, shouldn’t he? I mean, it’s not like there’s a huge shortage.’

‘It’s not about rations,’ she shakes her head, ‘it’s not like things have changed since the war started, but… a number of us still want things to be the way things were, right? Going down to the park, setting the coins into pinball machines and the like – you know that it’s Hell to look for a console that isn’t busted or worn nowadays that’s not expensive? I mean, thank God we have something lying around and second hand shops everywhere.’

‘Tell me about it.’ Tenryuu answers in your stead. ‘I have a friend who won’t buy anything but a mint condition console.

For the next 45 minutes, you find out just how boring it is to listen to two people comparing second hand and first hand prices in penny-pinching times with only nods and hums of agreement at the end of one topic and the jump to another. In fact, by the time you reach a seedy-looking neighborhood and a rather dirty apartment complex comes into view… you find yourself thankful, as the conversation had devolved into squeals of delight at 100 Yen differences in purchases and hurried exchanges of locations to shop for bargains and the like. You’re surprised that Tenryuu was so inquisitive about things… she never struck you as the type to go bargain diving.

The Keeper welcomes you inside – the front door is on its hinges… and you turn immediately right down a corridor, where, at the end, she unlocks a grill and a door, gesturing you to head on inside.

You’d arrived.

‘Come on in.’

>‘Thank you.’ (Go inside without comment)
>‘I’d like to check on the truck first, if that’s all right with you?’ (Check on the truck)
>‘I see why you were keen on moving away.’ (Comment on the neighborhood)
>‘Where’s everyone else?’ (Comment on the empty state of the floor)
>Write-In

I am stepping away from the computer before I strangle someone. I have been getting errors and that is not kosher.

>>802368
>‘Thank you.’ (Go inside without comment)

>>802378
4chan has been acting weird for me lately too. I suspect it to be Hiro's doing.

>>802368
>‘Thank you.’ (Go inside without comment)

>>802368
>>‘Thank you.’ (Go inside without comment)

What exactly did we purchase in the end anyways.

>>802457

Look at >>802157

>>802459
Ah, thanks, missed that. Was looking more at the main story posts.

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It’s surprisingly homely. The place isn’t as big as a house, but it definitely has a charm to it. The walls were a little cracked and the paint was peeling, but otherwise it looked like any other apartment for a small family. The couch looked brand new – and large enough for you to wonder how they’d managed to fit it through the door without some struggle. There was a kitchen counter to your right with pots and pans lined up perfectly and tidily, along with empty pots bottles where you supposed the condiments of salt, pepper and the like were meant to be held. A television set along with antennae and an ashtray that looked like it hadn’t seen any recent use – if at all – were by the back wall along with a few pictures lining the wall.

A corridor to your left just before the dining table tells you that there’s where the rooms were. You look at one of the pictures on the wall, of an older gentleman and a little girl in a ponytail by the sea, holding up two fingers and grinning at the camera, before immediately setting your eye on another picture of The Keeper, much younger in this one, standing next to a silver-haired gentleman in glasses, who looked stoic as can be while she had a thumbs up in the direction of the camera.

‘You can put your jackets on the rack.’ The Keeper indicates – you do so; The Keeper goes over to the couch and gives the pillows a light fluff. ‘Go ahead and sit down,’ she gestures kindly. You take the lead, albeit a little hesitantly, your socks dragging along the slightly worn floor. ‘I’ll have dinner ready in a bit – you folks all right with stock chicken?’

‘We don’t eat.’ Tenryuu mentions, leaning over the couch as you drop onto it. It’s a little harder than the one back at the barracks – the quality of the aesthetic belied its lack of comfort, but you don’t say anything. ‘The Commander here does, though.’

‘KanMusu don’t eat?’ The Keeper cocks her head, a little confused. ‘I swore that I saw you folks eating in that TV Show.’

‘Yeah, it’s…’ Tenryuu sighs as you turn your head over the edge of the couch for a full view of the conversation, ‘it’s complicated… but we generally don’t need to wolf anything down. You know… all that.’ She laughs nervously, rubbing the back of her neck… before look down at you, giving a kind look. ‘The Commander here’ll wolf down anything you can give, though, so don’t spare anything on account to cater to us, eh?’

She gives a big grin.

The Keeper grows a little more confused… but ultimately gives a small nod.

‘Our set’s a little old, but we get the channels just fine. Go ahead.’ She gestures to the TV.

>Turn on the television and watch TV quietly as you wait
>Ask to check on the truck
>Just sit down and let her prepare dinner
>Ask about the pictures
>Ask where her kids are
>Write-In

>>804325
>>Write-In
Turn on the TV for the girls and offer to help out in the kitchen

Least we can do for having us over for dinner. Then make small talk while we cook.

>>804325
>>804353
This

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>>804325
I'd support >>804353

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‘I’ll help you out.’ You hop to your feet, stretching yourself and walking towards the counter. ‘What are we making?’

‘Nothing hard.’ The Keeper answers, taking out a few basil stems from the fridge and ripping them in two with her bare hands. ‘But I’m making it. You’re a guest –go ahead and sit down; turn on the television and see what’s on the news.’ She gestures to the couch. ‘Really.’

‘I’d really like to help.’ You rub the back of your head, feeling a little more embarrassed than you usually felt. She’d been kind enough to invite the both of you over for dinner and give you a ride back… and you wanted to at least try to give something back, even if it would be something so small as helping out with kitchen work. ‘I worked in kitchens before they made me Commander… I think I know my way around the stove and oven a little better than you give me credit for.’

‘How do you get the basil done for a main dish?’ She instantly asks, catching you by surprise… but not enough to leave you stuttering.

Such a question wasn’t beyond someone who worked the kitchens as you did. You knew the answers from the get-go; the hard part is keeping the smug tone out of your voice the best you can. After all… you didn’t want to be pegged as a show-off as quickly as you’d met your new acquaintance.

‘Depends on the dish. For beef, it’s pre-prepared, for chicken you mix the both of them in if you’re going for rice.’ You answers, failing to do so. Your crossed arms are met with a challenging smirk from The Keeper, who mirrors your actions with a raised eyebrow. ‘Old onions are a no-no on either dish if you’re trying to keep the accent from the basil and potatoes mixed in get you fired.’ You add in, just to put that little bit more emphasis on your knowledge front. She doesn’t seem fazed anymore than she previously was, though. ‘Anything else?’

‘That’s a mom recipe.’ She says it in a defeated tone, gesturing you to come alongside her, which you do. ‘Who taught you?’

‘You pick things up here and there – good bosses, bad bosses, whatever you go through, you can’t help but learn anyway.’ You shrug – you weren’t an expert chef, but you could at least brag that you knew your way around the kitchen better than most folks that you knew… and probably most that you didn’t. This felt arrogant in no way to you, of course, being the humble cat that you were. ‘None of the bosses that I’ve worked under gave me any lessons outside of the basics, but as a short-order cook on stove duty, you really have to keep time versus quality done.’

The Keeper raids her fridge for ingredients… and immediately meets with your reluctance on the kind of meat and vegetables she intended to mix. For one, carrots and beef didn’t mix well with oil unless you wanted the beef to seep into the carrots.

TBC

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For a moment you feel like a husband having a pissing contest with your fiery wife. Never mind that you were a guest – the kitchen was as much your domain as a professional as much as it was hers as a mother and a wife.

Ten minutes later, the ingredients are laid out and the both of you are ready to get at it. You would make do with the vegetables and the side dishes, and she would start off with the meat dish; the agreement was so that neither of you would start mashing each other over what was cooked in what way. All the while, Tenryuu and Iowa were on the couch, chatting animatedly about penguins or something, your bags all collected on one side by the wall.

‘Here.’ The Keeper catches your attention, handing you a white cloth for some reason or other. ‘I only have one apron, so you’ll have to be careful if any of the sauces jump on your shirt. I don’t have anything around for you to change into.’ She looks to Tenryuu and Iowa. ‘Why don’t the both of you turn on the television?’

The both of them do, while you busy yourself with cutting the vegetables. The kitchen may have looked all right from one side, but it was clear that it wasn’t made for two chefs doing their things at once. It was not that much different from when you’d worked here, really. More than once you find your elbows meeting hers… and almost make her spill the broth she’d taken to preparing.

‘Watch it.’

‘Sorry.’

‘I thought you worked in a kitchen – you’re a little stiff… or is it the arm?’ She gestures to your prosthetic.

‘No, I’m just thinking.’ You bite your lip. ‘About the time I used to work in Kishin Metro. I wonder if the restaurant’s still up?’

‘If it’s high-end, it’s probably gone.’

You choose not to pursue it, turning your attentions to the television, where you see three people seated around a table – it was a discussion panel of some sort, with three journalists talking about something. You see the logo of the Haszad Union and the Taiyouga flag superimposed onto each other by the side. It raises your interest; you begin chopping the lettuce, frowning as you realize that you can’t hear it as well as you want to.

‘Tenryuu, can you raise the volume on that thing?’

‘Don’t bust the dial.’ The Keeper warns, ‘It’s barely getting color as is.’

Tenryuu raises the volume

‘The question is if the people will accept this? There’s no telling what kind of repercussions this set of decisions is going to make for us. The Congregation of Lords and The Admiralty have never been public about their relations – cooperation, through gritted teeth or shaken hands, it doesn’t really matter – but Haszad publicly asking for a hand in on the Abyssal effort at the cost of a Seat? Has that kind of thing ever been done, Okita?’

‘Haszad’s joining the Alliance?’ The Keeper turns to you.

TBC

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You don’t answer her, frowning as you split your focus between chopping up the vegetables and the three faces on the screen – a middle-aged woman, a fresh-faced young man and a man with an odd hairstyle that made you wonder if he was part of a rock band or a journalist.

’The Admiralty’s not the kind of organization to be public about its relations with any other factions. You have to remember that we barely know them beyond whatever propaganda they spout… and that they’ve – unsuccessfully – fought the Abyssals for the last decade. It’s time for us to ask if a new approach isn’t unwarranted, given the circumstances?’

Iowa and you share a worried look. You didn’t like the implications that that particular statement had raised.

’But would this Alliance actually be legitimate on paper? As far as we know, it’s been a few years since we’ve had consistent contact with Basilius, and given that the skies and the seas are still Abyssal territory, would it actually resonate with – ?’

The man is interrupted by the woman, who glares straight at him, evidently annoyed.

’It’s not about if it resonates or not. The Congregation of Lords has decided – all sixteen of them, to pull together here. The Union’s realized that if it wants to continue its survival, that it has to fight – there’s no if or buts about it anymore. The failure of The Admiralty has pushed the Lords into making a proposal – and, and ultimately a decision – that they believe will pull them through this.’

‘Basilius wouldn’t know about this.’ Tenryuu turns to you, a worried look in her eye. ‘The Sky Force may have Shamans, but none of them have the authority to pull this thing together without Basilius actually having the final say – that’s why the Alliance has been as it is… not to mention the fairies…’

‘What are they talking about?’ The Keeper walks from behind the counter, nearing the couch to hear better.

‘What about the rumors of a lax of security in regards to the border between The Union and Taiyouga? This could be – and I’m not saying it is, but the suspicions are there – another deliberate play to wrest an already iffy jurisdiction whose only reference board is thousands of miles away on another continent. This is unprecedented. It’s incredible.’

The man with the odd hairstyle smirks, shrugging as he turns to the fresh-faced young man.

‘But can you say that it’s unwarranted? We’re no closer to winning this war than we were when the armies and navies were at the frontlines – a change in approach isn’t without reason here.’

Tenryuu curses loudly, before apologizing.

‘Why would Haszad want to suddenly join in on the fight against the Abyssal forces?’ ‘It doesn’t make any sense.’

To you, however, it does.

>'Beats me.' (Change the topic)
>'It's for themselves.' (Address the topic)
>Write-In

>>805302
>'It's for themselves.' (Address the topic)

>>805302
>>'It's for themselves.' (Address the topic)

>>805302
>>'It's for themselves.' (Address the topic)
Haszad is not!China right? or was it not! Saudi Arabia.?

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>>805386
The Union is not!China + not!Soviet Union + Islam

>>805397
So Chinese lack of morality combined with Soviet industrial efficiency with lack of safety and Islamic zeal. we're boned.

>>805426
Administration-wise, they're more American. Also, "Islamic"? Hardly. In terms of morality, they do have it, but the country's attitude is very isolationist because they know they carry the biggest stick in the world. The nation is ruled by a Senate and a President, who shares power with the Templar Knight, a G20ish club of elites, unofficially.

>>805459
so Best Korea level of isolationist with Burger sized military and government with secret shadow group alongside. so little threat of invasion.

>>805459
I described them as Islamic because, before you named them, they were mentioned as a Sino-Muslim bloc. So that part of them has been retconned?

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>>805426
>we're boned.
Nah, it just means that instead of killing waves of godless commie goons, we'll be killing waves of religious commie goons.
My body is so ready.

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>>805468
>Union's been incredibly isolationist for 300 years
>Suddenly letting people from Taiyouga immigrate into it

>>805472
>Men's Magazine
my nigga

>>805471
That's the geographical comparison. Sino-Middle East doesn't have as nice a ring to it - and Islam is going by another name in this verse anyway.

>>805485
we must make plan in case shit goes south. Is there any where we can haul ass to in case of full SHTF situation?

>>805512
I remember that someone mentioned that jets used to fly to Vanser, even after the Abyssals showed up. We could probably find one in working condition somewhere and borrow it.

And if that doesn't work, we just sit tight and make like pic related.

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>>805542
>tfw you forget to post the pic related
Dangit. Here it is.

I'm actually in the middle of watching The Quarantine mission now from my MGSV playthrough.

I wonder how people would feel doing that here?

>>805590

No.

Fuck you.

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>>805590
>Infected friends and shipgirls
>Shining Lights, Even in Death

>>805590
It'd be enough for me to do one of two things.
Either:
>Drop the quest entirely
or
>Vote to go full renegade at every chance

I like the characters you've written too much.

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>>805549
Hold the Line and RIP AND TEAR!!!!

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>>805590
You know, we've already made a fuckton of MGS jokes over in the discord

We jokingly expect you to either put in A) a thematically-linked boss squad or B) the Parasite Unit when we go to save the Yamatos

>>805629
Actually, I already have something in mind for that mission.

Good luck.

Hope you enjoyed the vacation so far.

>>805635
>insert SCARED.jpg here
really need to name my reaction images and memes

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>>805635

>>805605
>GL's new strain of magic goes awry
>Shipgirls at a certain "relationship value" have to be put down
>They beg to not die because they did what they were told. They didn't do anything wrong.
>Vice Admiral kills Hiei with no mercy - no resistance - she accepts her fate. Tells you to make it quick - and make it painless.
>Samidare gives you one last hug
>BANG BANG
>The body slumps to the floor
>And the war goes on

Don't give me ideas, please.

>>805671
pls no

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>>805671
Stoppppp

>>805671
That just makes me want to get rid of the GL quietly and lethally, and somehow get our admiral to replace him.

Like I said, MECH, full renegade.