>>1181357
Get to the point, talk about getting the Navy to let Atago have that plot of grave land

>>1181357
"I am not here to drink, i here to speak about Atago and her grave, and is not professional to drink in service, sir"

>>1181357
>accept the glass but keep to the point of the meeting.

>>1181357
Barely anyone here, why am I not surprised?
>accept the glass and concede to his point. Make a note to get a watch later. Then start talking about the reason why we're here.

Seriously though, all this write-in stuff makes me think that the OP is not here to tell a well thought-out story, but to watch what kind of response his players will make. if there weren't shipsluts everywhere in this quest, not sure how long it would've lasted, if at all.

>>1181930
>all this write-in stuff makes me think that the OP is not here to tell a well thought-out story, but to watch what kind of response his players will make
You know he doesn't do write-ins often, right?

>>1181930
You are half-correct. As this is an opportunity to test my player-base's arguing skills to get what they want, I am using this chance to see how well my players do with Write-In exclusives so that I can see where they need prodding and where they don't. I'm all about interaction, after all.

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You lift your glass… before putting it down again, remembering what you were here for. A small voice at the back of your head cautions you to ease into the conversation, but you couldn’t afford to stray from The Adrmial’s advice and try to make small talk. After all that had happened and the building suspicion on your part that he was already on guard, you don’t think that there would be any room for you to wiggle into his graces from that angle. Seeing that he was still preoccupied with his own glass – taking a few sips and muttering words while ignoring you – you decide to take point with the conversation.

‘Sir, I’m here for – !’

‘I know what you are here for, Commander.’ He says the last word with great reluctance. As if there was another word that he wanted to switch out but courtesy had left him unable to do so. ‘It’s a thing that goes around the offices enough that there isn’t a need for you to explain.’ He pauses, taking the bottle and pouring more of its contents into his glass. ‘She’s been trying this for a while, I’ve heard; I think I may have lent a pen to one of those jockeys getting to her file.’ He shakes his head, straightening his back. ‘So now she’s decided that she’s too good for a proper application and decided to try a back door of entry.’ There’s an enigmatic smirk that makes it way to his features as he pushes his glass towards you. ‘The girl knows her politics.’

You stiffen yourself, wondering if that had been a jive at Takao’s expense or just how he saw things. Still, you find it in you to defend her, if only her intentions.

‘I don’t think she meant it like that, sir.’ The Captain hums as you try to find the momentum to continue. ‘All she wants is for her sister to be buried just like everyone else.’

‘There are grave plots everywhere.’ He answers coolly, setting his elbows on the table. ‘I’m sure that you have enough coin in your Admiralty to afford at least that comfort?’ You count backwards from ten – you can tell that he’s prodding you by now. ‘Or is this about her thinking that her that her sister’s death is somehow supposed to be some sort of appeal for me that it’s enough to be buried alongside the men and women that have passed on in defense of those they loved and the nation that they believed was worth their lives?’

You can tell that he’s glaring at you by now.

‘I have given no implications or insinuated any of the sort, sir.’

He sighs tiredly, pouring more into his glass.

‘I suppose you haven’t. That was unfair of me.’ The Captain taps the table, his eyes still on you, this time adopting a look that was being bemusement and puzzlement. ‘My question for you, I suppose, Commander, and I suppose that you were prepared for this before you arranged this meeting is why would you assume that I would have a view different from everyone else she has gone to?’

>Write-In

>>1182035
Because the Admiral recommended you to me.

Some advice from the previous thread for everybody:

>‘If you’re insistent on this pursuit, though, I can arrange a meeting between the both of you.’ He leans forward, looking you dead in the eye. ‘I have to forewarn you – he’s a hardass as they come and more traditional than a damn rowboat.’ The Admiral crosses his arms, his usual cool compromised. ‘I don’t know if he will help you… but I can guarantee that he’ll at least lend an ear to listen.’ The Admiral looks like he’s contemplating on his words. ‘He might have a bigger hold on the end-say, but I can’t promise you more than that.’

>‘If it’ll help… I don’t see any reason to turn it down.’ After so long, you feel that Takao needed at least some degree of closure. ‘What – who do I have to speak to?’

>‘Well, the brats back in the day used to call him Toecutter… but you’ll be addressing him as Captain, sir.’ He grunts, scrunching his nose. ‘Don’t try to play mind games with him, don’t try to make small talk unless it’s about baseball and don’t pretend to talk about baseball if you don’t like it or he’ll…’ He chuckles darkly. ‘well, his name’s enough of a hint.’

>>1182071
This

>>1182071
add in
>The Admiral wouldn't have set this meeting up if he didn't believe anything would come of it, sir.

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‘If you couldn’t be reasoned with, The Admiral wouldn’t have arranged for this meeting, sir.’

He takes a sip from his glass, making a contemplative gesture as he leans back and stares at you coolly. You feel like you’re back in the kitchen again… only this time rather than a chef giving you a verbal dressing-down, it was a grizzled old Navy veteran who probably despised being at the same table as you. The pressure was the same, but there was an element to control and civility to this particular instance – for one you didn’t have spit flying all over you; and for two, you didn’t feel threatened by a wild cleaver in his hands. Although, considering the rank that came with him, he might as well have been. It was a whole different game to dealing with someone of significant, tangible grit and experience.

‘I’m surprised that he bothered to even bring up my name.’ The Captain snorts, gruffly harrumphing and sitting up straight again. ‘Forty years I’ve known that man and he’s still as evasive as ever.’ He brushes his mustache, letting out something unintelligible. ‘Goes to show what kind of pedigree you’re putting in the stocks.’

You’re not quite sure if that’s something directed to you more than it was towards The Admiral. You were already aware of your lack of conventional skills, of course, but it felt uncomfortable seeing them addressed… if only indirectly.

‘I wouldn’t know, sir.’

He fixes a gaze on you, adjusting his jacket as he downs the rest of his glass.

‘Regardless, Commander,’ he begins again. ‘I don’t see a particular reason to advocate on your behalf… the regulations clearly state that burial in the Imperial Military Cemetery is restricted to those who have served with distinction, honor and laid down their lives of the country… and whose places there are garnered as exclusive members of the military fraternity. The KanMusu that you are representing and the lobbying for a place among distinguished men and women is not party of that fraternity. She is by all rights and counts… at most, if you’d like, a civilian registered into a militia… and thus ineligible for the burial rites that would otherwise have been made as a soldier who has laid themselves down to defend their fellow man.’

‘Atago fought and died for humanity.’ You control yourself. You can tell that he’s trying to get a rise out of you again – like he had through this night. ‘Are you saying that makes her worth less because she doesn’t have a badge a gun.’

‘Yes.’ He answers you, coldly and directly. ‘Men and women have died in wars, Commander. But make no mistake – to bury her there, to give her rites… would be to recognize her death in the same manner we would a brother in arms. Picking up a gun and jumping into a firefight isn’t a requisite… it’s part of the job.’

He points to his emblem.

‘This is what makes the difference.’

>Write-In

>>1182735
Again, I emphasize this is me trying something new in regards to argument mini-games. If you guys think you need STILL need some rope in these instances, feel free to tell me and I'll go back to the option format. This is to see if you guys are more comfortable coming up with your own arguments rather than a prepared set.

Also, sorry. Nature called.

>>1182748
Do we know that kanmusu are resurrected warships who served in a military navy in their previous life?

>>1181930
Purely write-ins don't happen that often.

>>1182735
>"Jesus fucking Christ is that what this is about? Atago died for you like every man in that cemetery died protecting their country and their families. Are you telling me that just because she doesn't have a stupid badge that she's not even going to get a burial? This woman laid down her life for humanity, for fucks sake and all humanity can do as a thank you is tell her that she doesn't deserve to be acknowledged for sacrificing herself so the both of us could afford to have this stupid conversation? No wonder the Abyssals want to wipe us the fuck out. I can't believe I'm arguing that someone who is by all intents and purposes as much a soldier as the ones already fucking buried there thinks that she doesn't deserve the same tribute just because she doesn't have that stupid, crummy badge. Is that how it is, Toecutter?"

>>1182735
here are some ideas anons
>1. we summon them from somewhere for the sole purpose of serving as weapons of war against the Abyssals
>2. they are essentially ships in human form and are our only water combat units that are effective
>3. they've done more work than you" angle, we could possibly point out how its been civilians that have been fighting most of this war
MPs and volunteers risking their lives on the frontlines
>4. point out that he's taking out his frustration of not being able to do anything on those who're the only ones holding the line now

>>1183052
>>1183072
Okay guys, I'll try to write something between these two since you both are the only ones with anything to offer so far.

That, and it's been an hour.

>>1182735
I am all for pointing out that the Navy have done nearly nothing while civilians have been the ones on the frontlines. Though with a lot less shouting than anon above.

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‘If that what it’s about… then you’re devaluing the sacrifices of those men and women as much you’re devaluing Atago’s sacrifice.’

The reply leaves your mouth without you even thinking it. It was as if something had taken over. A reflex… but somehow, you believed there was some value of truth to it. The Captain shifts in his seat, his aloof persona gone – replaced with a man who was boiling under the surface, his eyes boring through your skull. Somehow, though… you just don’t care for it.

‘Don’t try to get with my head, Commander.’ His tone is bored, annoyed. ‘I don’t believe that you’ll last more than five seconds in there.’

At long last, you try to play for some courage… and finally down your glass.

‘I doubt I’ll need five seconds.’ You mutter under your breath, just loud enough so he could hear it. ‘Sir.’

You set down your glass, meeting his eyes with your own good one.

‘I may not be a man of the military… but I know what burial in that cemetery means. About what it acknowledges for its patrons – that they honor in their death what they did in life. It’s given to those that fought their battles and laid down the best years of their lives for their fellow man and their flag. I doubt that emblem means a sliver of slick for them once they’re six feet under. They didn’t fight for that, Captain. They fought as the KanMusu are fighting now. For us.’

For the first time since you’d met him, you see something falter. It isn’t small or significant, but something gives way.

No… it feels like it’s always been there, this crack, but…

‘And I have replied to you, Commander, that it is not the matter of the sacrifice.’ He lifts the bottle, pouring another glass for himself. ‘It is an argument of whether she belongs in there by legislation.’

‘But it’s not the legislation that counts at the end of the day. You emphasized service and sacrifice above all.’ Your voice doesn’t waver. There’s insubordination in there somewhere, but you find that you’d be retreating into yourself if you so much as dipped in your conviction. ‘She laid herself down to defend her fellow man… and more.’ You growl – almost desperately, almost plreadingly. ‘That should count for something.’

They owed nothing yet gave everything… something about that just didn’t stand right with you.

Some things were just due.

‘I have seen scores of young men and women throw themselves at hopeless odds.’ He declares, looking straight at you. ‘What makes this one any different, Commander? Compared to them?’

>‘Exactly. What makes her any different?’ (Emphasize)
>‘How does that make what she did any less, then, Captain?’ (Redirect)
>‘All I’m asking is for what I think is due, sir.’ (Plead)
>‘I can’t say I can give a proper answer, sir.’ (Passive)
>Write-In

>>1182748
Figures I wouldn't get back until after the write in arguments were done, oh well.

>>1182735
If you're still writing Mech, I know the Commander likes to go off, but if we could refrain from being too abrasive that would be much obliged.

>>1183533
It's okay. Maybe pure write-ins aren't such a good idea after all.

>>1183529
>‘Exactly. What makes her any different?’ (Emphasize)
and maybe reiterate what the Commander personally thinks makes them the same before he can counter with the same argument he's been using all night.

>>1183543
I think having the caption at the end of the options you've laid out letting us know the context of the choices works best anyway, it lets us add anything we want, and let's us know the direction you're thinking of heading in.

>>1183529
>>‘How does that make what she did any less, then, Captain?’ (Redirect)

>>1183529
>>‘How does that make what she did any less, then, Captain?’ (Redirect)

>>1183529
>>‘Exactly. What makes her any different?’ (Emphasize)

>>1183529
>‘Exactly. What makes her any different?’ (Emphasize)
those men and women throw thenselves to the enemy like the kanmusu does, and we repect them, WHY NOT a kanmusu?

>>1183529
>>‘Exactly. What makes her any different?’ (Emphasize)

>>1183529
>‘Exactly. What makes her any different?’ (Emphasize)

File: It's In Heaven's Hands Now.gif (38 KB, 320x240)

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‘Exactly.’ You stare into your glass for a while, mumbling under your breath before looking up and straight at him. He still had that fixed intimidating look to him, but he also looked a mite more receptive. Gathering what courage you had, you press on, holding him with a determined gaze of your own. ‘Then what makes what they did any different? Badge or no?’

He sets his elbows on the table, wearing as stoic an expression as he could muster. Truth be told, it was terrifying – you may not have known the man that well, but The Captain truly did have the aura of a grizzled, hardened warrior… and a large part of your thoughts was focused on not pushing your luck more than you already had. However, there was also a frustrated part in you… and it was somehow keeping that fear at bay.

‘I told you about the conditions.’ He pushes his point. He had indeed told you about the conditions.

You just found them incredibly petty.

‘And they fulfilled them to the letter.’ You mirror his movements, fixing your good eye on his. You know you hadn’t seen half o what this man had been through… but you still find yourself determined to argue your point. ‘I’m no dog of war. I think the only battlefields I’ve been in before I put on this uniform are a few back-alley scraps. Nothing compared to what you’ve seen, that’s for sure.’ Your gaze softens as you bring your hands off the table, clicking your tongue and massaging your troubled brow before addressing him tiredly, ‘But Captain, Atago… all the KanMusu are here just as much as you were for this country. I think that even if you don’t owe them your life… you sure owe them their deaths.’

A silence emerges between the both of you. The makeshift bar is still loud and filled with cheering masses.

‘I can’t make any promises, Commander. I’m not in the business of it.’ He twirls his cane, eying the handle. ‘Not sure if they’ll still listen to the ol’ Toecutter, either.’

You can’t help but share a wry smile with him. His lips twitch, if only a little.

‘I’ve heard that before.’ You nod in understanding. ‘Thank you, sir.’

He raises himself to his full height, straightening his coat. The crowd erupts in cheers by the projector; something good had probably happened.

‘I’ll give you an official reply within 48 hours. If the reply is positive, just forward the form to the Records Bureau – the address will be enclosed. Considering how articulate you are, I trust that you know how to read?’

‘Yes, Captain, sir.’

‘I’ll be taking my leave, then.’ He taps the table one last time, his face wrinkling up as he takes on a mischievous smile. ‘You’re paying for that, by the way.’

Before you can say or do anything else, he’s right out the flaps, the crowd obscuring from view.

It was in Heaven’s hands now.

>Hang around a bit more
>Head back to the barracks END DAY

>>1184028
>Hang around a bit more

>>1184028
>>Head back to the barracks END DAY

>>1184028
>>Hang around a bit more

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You decide to hang around a bit longer. It wasn’t as if there was a need for you to actually rush back right now. Seeing as the festivities had gone up a notch in loudness, you decide to join the festivities… somewhat, anyway, by pouring the bottle for yourself. The crowd gathered around the projector was cheering to the high heavens; craning your neck a little you realize that they were watching a baseball game – whether it was live or just a recording, you didn’t know, but it did look like they were enjoying themselves.

Scanning the place, you discern that whatever it was, when the Imperial Army wanted to have a good time, they could damn well make it happen – even at the frontlines. The place wasn’t unlike your typical mid-range pub in a moderate area, now that you had a good look of the place – save for the tent and the lack of smoke (which you suppose was a rule) it felt like you were smack dab of a local hangout. There were a myriad of army personnel, all in uniform one way or another – some of the men had lost their tops and some of the women were in tank tops and fatigues, but they were all unrecognizably Army personnel.

All except that one woman who was in short shorts and wearing a vest, sitting at the bar counter all by her lonesome.

‘COME ON, SARGE! YOU CAN’T KEEP DOING THAT!’

A chorus of groans catches your attention; you turn your head to see, smack dab in the middle of the makeshift pub, several men – some sitting and some standing, cursing loudly at some unfortunate occurrence while a very feminine cackle made its way to your ears. There’s another collective chorus of accusations, only for the feminine cackling to get louder. You sip your glass as you get a good look at the place and spy an old couch by the side, where an intimidating hulk of a man was sitting down with two men… who immediately get up and pat him on the shoulder before leaving.

You can’t quite make out what he’s saying, but he takes a swig of a bottle that had been hidden behind his feet in one go before slumping against the couch, wearing an expression that you can only describe as troubled.

‘HOW DO YOU LIKE THEM APPLES, PEACHY?!’

Your attention goes back to the crowd.

‘QUIET IT DOWN, YA MORONS! YA KNOW HOW HARD IT WAS GETTING THAT THING SET UP?!’

The bartender – an admittedly handsome man that belonged on a catwalk more than he did behind a bar or a military uniform – grumbles as he hands over another tray of bottles to the serving lady.

You take another sip of your drink.

>Approach the woman in the ponytail
>Approach the loud, rambunctious group of people cheering in front of the screen
>Approach the intimidating but troubled-looking man
>See what the folks are doing at the table in the middle of the tent
>Talk to the bartender
>Leave END DAY
>Write-In

>>1184053
>>Talk to the bartender

>>1184053
>Approach the intimidating but troubled-looking man
theres a sidequest if i ever seen one

>>1184053
>Approach the woman in the ponytail

>>1184053
>>Approach the intimidating but troubled-looking man

>>1184053
>>Approach the woman in the ponytail

>>1184053
>Approach the intimidating but troubled-looking man

>>1184053
>>Approach the woman in the ponytail

>>1184053
>Approach the intimidating but troubled-looking man

>>1184053
>>Approach the woman in the ponytail

>>1184064
>>1184130
>>1184216
>>1184230
>>1184233
>>1184235
>>1184381
>>1184403
Flipping a coin. Coin flipped.

I wanted to talk to the troubled-looking man. Had this cool quest. Oh well.

>>1184053
>Approach the intimidating but troubled-looking man

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It was strange that the woman was alone. Everyone else – save for you, and that was because your company for the night had just departed – was pretty much paired up or part of some loud group sipping on some booze at a table, but the pony-tailed woman was sitting quietly, her back to you and a bottle in her hand… which you notice was actually her third since you came in, the other two by the side. In your experience – well, not exactly your experience, but you knew enough from TV shows to know that someone drinking alone was either going through a rough patch… or about to do something stupid.

Getting up from your seat and clutching your own bottle and glass, you decide that you didn’t want to spend time in a rambunctious makeshift bar alone and spying on everyone like a creep. Besides, if you got shot down at your offer for company (and nothing more, as you were a taken man by all accounts), you could just settle what the bottle set you for and be on your way. It’s not as if you were on the market anymore.

Not that you were ever a valuable commodity on that end, but a responsible shop owner always put their out of stock placard up when they sold out.

‘Hel – !’

You freeze as the sullen… and familiar face turns to you, the corners of her mouth turning up in a grimace and your grip loosening on the bottle in your hands ever so slightly, so stunned were you at seeing her again. The last time you’d seen each other was when steel and concrete was collapsing all around you back in Haszad.

‘Loudmouth?’

She chuckles, gesturing for you to take the stool beside her. Too numb to refuse, you do so, setting your bottle on the counter and trying to make sense of this strange coincidence.

‘So this is where you were posted.’ She smirks visibly, taking the shotglass and gulping its contents noisily. ‘Small world, isn’t it, Commander?’

‘Y – Yeah…’ You scratch the back of your head, not quite sure where – or how – to take this conversation. You hadn’t expected anyone from Jackal Squadron to show up in your life again… never mind clad in civvies and downing their third bottle in a makeshift bar on the frontlines of the fight against the Abyssal forces. ‘What are you doing here? Kind of out of your way, isn’t it?’

‘A girl can’t have a drink at her own leisure?’

You want to point out that normal people didn’t drive all the way to an Abyssal frontline for a drink.

‘One more, please.’

She mumbles the words, but they’re loud enough that the bartender sets another bottle next to her. She lets out a sigh as she downs the last gulp.

>‘You mind sharing with me just why you chose this place of all places – instead of, you know… a real bar back inland?’ (Pry)
>‘How’s everyone from Jackal Squadron?’ (Inquire)
>‘I never thanked you for… you know.’
>‘Want me to buy you a round?’ (Casual)
>Write-In

>>1185327
>‘How’s everyone from Jackal Squadron?’ (Inquire)

>>1185327
>>‘How’s everyone from Jackal Squadron?’ (Inquire)

>>1185327
>‘I never thanked you for… you know.’

>>1185327
>‘How’s everyone from Jackal Squadron?’ (Inquire)

I am concerned about the shenanigans that will ensue when we inevitably have to take her to our barracks so she can sleep it off.

>>1185327
>>‘You mind sharing with me just why you chose this place of all places – instead of, you know… a real bar back inland?’ (Pry)

>>1185327
>>‘How’s everyone from Jackal Squadron?’ (Inquire)

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‘How’s everyone from Jackal Squadron?’

Loudmouth keeps silent. You find eerie parallels between her demeanor and Toecutter’s… but she wasn’t so much as actively trying to keep you out as she was just dwelling on herself; there’s a tired look in her eyes as she picks up the now-empty shotglass, her lips forming a line as she intently stares into it. Around you, everyone either laughs, groans or cheers, the din becoming more deafening as you wait on Loudmouth’s reply. You feel awkward after the first few seconds pass, wondering if you had brought up something that she was here to forget and attempt to wave the question off when she sets down the shotglass and clicks her tongue, a grimace playing on her lips.

‘Jackal Squadron has been officially discharged.’ She reveals, letting out a great sigh as she leans back from the table and throws her head back before sitting up straight again. This definitely wasn’t something that she was particularly comfortable talking to you about. ‘The Congregation launched an investigation on the Lord that handed us the assignment… and your Admiralty denied any knowledge of what happened; and with things going the way they did, well… you can see why they’re all looking for a few heads on the chopping block.’ She pours herself another glass, pinching the bridge of her nose. ‘Lucky you, huh?’

‘I’m sorry.’

You’re not sure if she accepts the apology.

You want to tell her that you didn’t have it easy either, but… considering just how much more protected The Admiralty was compared to the Navy, you can’t help but think that it would be a little too self-serving to compare your being watched by a Submarine to that of an official discharge from a position in the military. Something flashes across her eyes for a moment – you make out anger and restraint in an odd mix for that fleeting instant – before she goes back to her silent self, resting her chin on on her arms as she absently eyes the crates on the other side of the bar counter.

‘They didn’t even get a funeral, you know?’

You rack your brains for a moment before you realize that she was talking about Blueblood and Stomper.

‘I’m sorry to hear that.’

‘The Commander’s been forced into early retirement.’ She declares in a monotone voice, scratching the top of her head. ‘I think the others have been assigned into the local loons. It’s still a career, so I can’t blame them.’

You’re not sure what that means… but you’re at least relieved that they weren’t thrown to the dogs on your behalf. There was still guilt on your part, but…

‘What about you?’

‘What do you think I’m doing?’ She raises her shotglass again. ‘Blowing what’s left of my paycheck.’

>‘So why are you here then?’ (Pry)
>‘I never thanked you for… you know.’
>‘Want me to buy you a round?’ (Casual)
>Write-In

>>1185576
>>‘So why are you here then?’ (Pry)

>>1185576
>‘Want me to buy you a round?’ (Casual)

>>1185576
>>‘I never thanked you for… you know.’

>>1185576
>>‘I never thanked you for… you know.’

>>1185576
>>‘I never thanked you for… you know.’

>>1185576
>>‘So why are you here then?’ (Pry)

>>1185576

>‘Want me to buy you a round?’ (Casual)

>>1186123
>>‘You willing to work a stand or a shift? Ooyodo or Yuubari could use help.’
make amends with Yuubari by easing her workload

>>1186123
What does the "offer you something" option entail?

>>1186123
>>‘If you’d like… I think I might be able to offer you something.’

>>1186128
>>1186139
Fuck guys, I'm sorry. I must have not refreshed and only seen the three options. My mistake.

>>1185600
>>1185603
>>1185626

>>1186123
>‘You willing to work a stand or a shift? Ooyodo or Yuubari could use help.’

>>1186123
>‘If you’d like… I think I might be able to offer you something.’

Not sure if this counts as a write-in or not ,but I'd like to point out that having a professional around to train Fingers and the gang that sided with us would not be a bad thing since the MPs are still kind of ticked at us.

>>1186219
The option that is moot, but I think it'll have something to the effect off:

"ONEE-SAMA! ONEE-SAMA!"

In typical Yakuza Neechan fashion.

>>1186167
Wait, hang on - weren't you the anon that didn't like this Quest?

>>1186243
Kek, I'm the anon that didn't like needing to do the write-ins. I only vote for normal options.

>>1186257
You said that I wasn't here to write a well-thought out story. I would've thought that you would have gone to somewhere you thought was well-written enough for your standards. You don't have to force yourself to be here if it's not up to scratch. There are other quests out there. You can find one to your liking.

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‘I never thanked you, you know.’

Loudmouth doesn’t speak for a while, pouring a little more of the contents into her glass. Waiting for her to speak, you make a motion for your own bottle and pour, lifting the glass to your lips for a quick sip as you eyed her. You wonder if you had said something wrong… or if the way you had said it was just a little too patronizing. She doesn’t look angry, but her gaze is distant enough that you wonder if she’s even paying attention to you at all. As you go for your second sip, so does Loudmouth… who finally turns to you, wearing an expression that you can only describe as stoic.

‘Never asked for it.’

For a fleeting moment, you wonder if you need to make a bolt for the flaps or raise your prosthetic to intercept a blow… but all that comes is a pair of flushed cheeks and a small, lop-sided smile. She nods her head, receiving your thanks as well as anyone else before taking her glass and raising it towards you. Not knowing what else to do… you raise your own glass.

‘But…’ your glass clink together and she closes her eyes, nodding, ‘you’re welcome.’

You try to give the best smile you can, but you suspect that it comes off as a lot more forced than you’d like.

‘To absent friends.’ She declares, her voice a little more tired compared to before.

You take another small sip before placing your glass back on the counter.

‘To absent friends.’

She downs the rest of the glass, resting her head on her hand as she sighs wistfully, staring off into space. Around you, the place starts getting into the swing of things – out of the corner of your eye you spy a familiar Sergeant arguing with someone you guess to be one of her charges at the table smack dab in the middle of the tent.

>‘So why are you here then?’ (Pry)
>‘Want me to buy you a round?’ (Casual)
>‘I better get going. I have a few things to do.’ END DAY
>Write-In

>>1186360
>>‘So why are you here then?’ (Pry)

>>1186360
>>‘So why are you here then?’ (Pry)

>>1186360
>>‘So why are you here then?’ (Pry)

>>1186270
I go where I please and vote how I want. Besides, barely any of the other quests are about what I'm interested in. In the end though this is just tab # 28, so I'm reading whatever other archived quest that isn't active at the moment anyway.

>>1186360
>>‘So why are you here then?’ (Pry)

>>1186370
I'm just saying you don't have to force yourself to be here. I care that my players enjoy themselves and according to you, you clearly are not enjoying yourself. I apologize, again, that this is up to scratch and hope you can find other quests. It upsets me if a person wants to go through with something as painful as doing something they clearly are not enjoying.

There many quests that have a lot of players - which seem to be an environment that you believe makes a good quest for you - MercCommand employs a good, frequent system and the same "Shipsluts" in your own words and a player base that far exceeds mine. Perhaps that will be more to your liking, player?

I care that my Questers are having a good time, but I won't force them to be here if they don't want to. So I'm just saying that maybe don't... force yourself to be angry at a quest that's not to your liking? This isn't so much a book as this is an interactive tabletop session with an online platform.

So why waste time on this quest if it's not up to scratch? You don't like it and while it does make me a little sad that you're not enjoying yourself, I'd rather you go and enjoy yourself over forcing yourself to be here and vote for something you clearly have no liking for or investment in.

Feels like a huge waste of time on your end.

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>>1186370
>tab # 28

>>1186425
im taking this

>>1186370
what do you need 28 tabs for? and how many of them are porn?

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‘This is kinda out of the way for you… why are you all the way out here?’ You stare at her in confusion. You weren’t abrasive to the prospect of a familiar acquaintance being around here, but Yokosuka wasn’t exactly what you would call a place where one would want to let their hair down, let alone a place to shop for a drinking fountain. ‘Kishin Metro would’ve given you a bigger selection of booze, at least.’

‘Nice one.’ A sarcastic growl reaches your ears.

You look up to see the bartender scowling at you, cleaning a metal flagon. Maybe that hadn’t been the best choice of words. Before you can afford an apology, however, he leaves the both of you. Feeling your back pocket, you think that perhaps you should leave an extra tip… after a few years in the industry, you know not to raise the ire of the man on the other side of the counter with a hand in your salad or a finger on your cup.

‘That mission… was the first operation that Jackal Squadron had in years.’ She reveals, resting her face in her arms. ‘It… It got me thinking, I guess.’ She closes her eyes, remaining still for a moment. ‘It made me feel… useful for the first time in a while. I always wanted to serve my country, give back what I think I owed. The war… this isn’t a war that I can fight. When we crossed… when we went there,’ you realize that she was being vague on purpose; rightly so, considering just how sensitive your little venture had become, ‘I suppose you can call it an epiphany… but I realized it had been a long time since I felt that I was making a difference. You and Ahab made me think about a few things. When we were discharged…’ she pushes herself off the counter, now wearing a smile of relief, ‘I guess you can say that my opinions didn’t change at all. I might not agree with a lot of things on your side, and even less from your damnable Court – !’

A small chuckle escapes you, despite the air of the situation. Her eyes take a defeated, but peaceful, shine as she lifts the bottle.

‘I told myself that it was all right that I couldn’t make all the difference in the world.’ She stares into her glass again. ‘But I wouldn’t be able to live with myself if I turned away the opportunity to help the ones that are trying – and risking their own skin – to make that difference.’

She turns to you, her eyes holding a determined gaze.

‘I believe that what I’m trying to say is… I’m here to help.’

Her cheeks flush pink.

‘Although, I don’t think that an Ex-Op’s going to be much use for you out here.’

She smiles wryly, pouring herself another glass.

>‘War isn’t just about who can rake the higher kill count.’
>‘The MPs could always use someone new.’
>‘If you’d like… I think I might be able to offer you something.’
>‘You willing to work a stand or a shift? Ooyodo or Yuubari could use help.’
>Write-In

>>1186459
>>‘You willing to work a stand or a shift? Ooyodo or Yuubari could use help.’
they need all the help they can get

>>1186459
>>‘The MPs could always use someone new.’
A place where her skills might have some nominal use

>>1186459
>>‘If you’d like… I think I might be able to offer you something.’

>>1186459

>‘The MPs could always use someone new.’

>>1186459
Also, in the face of this really big fuck-up of mine... which as a QM is fucking careless and unforgivable...

And you can be assured I won't screw up again:

You guys have a choice of-

Combat penalties for next mission on my end: -1 which means in the event of a tie, barring outside influence, you guys win.

Reversion of Social/Other DC from 17 to 16.

>>1186496
>Reversion of Social/Other DC from 17 to 16.
going for the one we dont do well on

>>1186459
>‘You willing to work a stand or a shift? Ooyodo or Yuubari could use help.’

>>1186496
Combat penalties for next mission on my end: -1 which means in the event of a tie, barring outside influence, you guys win.

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>>1186496
>On one hand, making literally every single possible fuck up a bit easier
>On the other hand, next battle has the Abyssals doing a Benny Hill routine

>>1186496

>‘If you’d like… I think I might be able to offer you something.’

>Reversion of Social/Other DC from 17 to 16.

Yes please, we seem to do okay in fights, and that penalty would only be for the next mission anyhow. Social DC drop has better long-term advantages.

>>1186496

Other DC from 17 to 16

>>1186496
>Reversion of Social/Other DC from 17 to 16.
long term benefit. Could've succeeded that running check at the end of the last thread if the DC was 16.

>>1186417
But that's the thing. I DID invest plenty of time in this quest. I read it from the first thread and up to here, and even started to voted on stuff from at least 9-10 threads back. I LIKE the personalities and the interactions with the shipsluts here, it's one of my main reasons to like this quest. Also, yes I do participate in Merc's quests, which I love since they are stable weekly sessions with cute repeating characters that we like from Merc. Even so, so long as I still do care about these characters at all, I will still show up to vote and see if I can make a difference in how the quest will progress. It's that simple. As soon as I finally no longer care about it enough, I will leave this quest like every other one that got boring or stopped mattering to me. That, or the QM stops showing up or something.

>>1186437
Currently? none. I don't leave porn tabs open unless I want it. What reason does anyone have to leave porn tabs open when you're done with it? Just about every tab is either an archived quest, a fanfiction, a translated LN, or translated webnovel. It's very easy to get bored when you read through dozens of threads, fanfiction chapters, or a couple of volumes for any kind of novel, so I keep things interesting by keeping threads that I will read later, but not now, open. Reading gets more boring when you've already finished the most interesting ones after all.

>>1186647
you got a point about the porn. Plus i have been in that boat of already having read all the interesting stories and going "well, now what do i read"

>>1181930
>Seriously though, all this write-in stuff makes me think that the OP is not here to tell a well thought-out story, but to watch what kind of response his players will make. if there weren't shipsluts everywhere in this quest, not sure how long it would've lasted, if at all.

You do realize that this reads like you haven't been here for long and are unaware that I rarely use write-ins. That and you seem to be unaware that this particular instance is an unofficial test to see how many people are going to bother to respond in a purely subjective manner with no objective option to choose from.

Why would you say that if you've been here for 10 threads? You would have known that I leave options out for my players more often than not, so why bring this up there?

>>1186465
>>1186475
>>1186476
>>1186486
>>1186530
>>1186614
So, by coin elimination... congratulations, you have another mouth to feed

>>1186770
Hope she likes banana burritos. And maybe she can help Fingers with his romancing.

>>1186777
Fingers has a girlfriend and loving it. He doesn't need help.

Much to everyone else's chagrin.

>>1186797

Well that's good news, when I don't hear about background characters I tend to assume the worst.

>>1186748
Because it's much easier for me to remember the things I don't like than anything else. Normally I just ignore the write-ins and wait for the next update read and vote for, but starting the thread with one just made me more cranky I guess.

>>1186875
Fair enough. So long as you're enjoying yourself, feel free to stay, but don't put yourself through something that you don't like. It makes me upset when a Quester's just forcing himself to be here for hateposting.

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Surprisingly, you find yourself considering her placement, despite the sudden nature of her intentions. On one hand, you’re thrilled to have someone else with legitimate military experience on the field outside of The Vice-Admiral and The Admiral had chosen to be on base and join the fight, on the other… you couldn’t quite figure out where to place her. As combat-capable as she was, you could hardly fit her in KanMusu gear and send her out just like any other member of your Division. You consider Akashi… but you’re not sure just how helpful she could be – Akashi may have been a busy bee, but she also seemed to be in a comfortable place organizing her own world; Yuubari didn’t look like she needed that much help – outside of taking an insurance policy on your reckless antics – while you didn’t know if Ooyodo wanted help at all.

Considering her background, there was an inclination to hold out an olive branch to The Chief and let her act as working muscle, but for some reason you don’t see that working out so well.

As arrogant as it sounded, you thought that you could probably commission her yourself. You needed the extra hands, anyway.

‘If you’d like… I think I might be able to offer you something to do.’

‘Labor work?’ She raises an eyebrow.

‘Nothing like that.’ You hurriedly reply. ‘I’ll have to put in some paperwork or deputize you or something, but if you really want to make a difference, I think I can put you under me and help out with my Division.’

‘What do you have in mind?’

‘This is a bit sudden… I’ll sleep on it and see where we’re particularly lacking.’ You could think of a few places, really. ‘Or if anything I’m assigned to needs someone of your particular talent.’ You bite your lip as a snag makes itself known to your thoughts. ‘I’m not sure I can give you enough pay to fully compensate you for your services, though. I’ll try to see if they’re willing to give some leeway on the budget if the pay’s not to your liking.’

‘That’s acceptable.’

She pours the last of the bottle’s contents into the glass.

‘There’s a favor I’d like to ask of you, though.’

You gesture for her to continue.

‘I wasn’t aware that the quarters were only for commissioned staff members and the shelters aren’t particularly welcoming of strangers.’ She clicks her tongue, making a frustrated sound. ‘If it’s not too much trouble, are you able to refer me to a barracks or give me permission to use the quarters until I’m properly registered, sir?’

You bring your fist to your chin, wondering just how to solve this little problem…

>‘You can bunk in with the Division. You’re going to be working with us anyway.’ (Offer her a stay at the Barracks)
>‘I’ll see what I can do, but getting you a place at this time’s going to be the luck of the draw.’ (Try and see Ooyodo)
>Write-In

>>1187021
>>‘You can bunk in with the Division. You’re going to be working with us anyway.’ (Offer her a stay at the Barracks)
we're gonna clean out those storage rooms soon

>>1187021
>‘You can bunk in with the Division. You’re going to be working with us anyway.’ (Offer her a stay at the Barracks)

Commence shenanigans.

>>1187021
>>‘You can bunk in with the Division. You’re going to be working with us anyway.’ (Offer her a stay at the Barracks)
We're just gonna keep taking people in until all the rooms are completely full and we have to sleep on the couch.

>>1187021
>>‘You can bunk in with the Division. You’re going to be working with us anyway.’ (Offer her a stay at the Barracks)

>>1187045
Loudmouth will make it 15 people staying in the Barracks. she's gonna have to bunk with Takao and Houshou

>>1187071

We do have another room to clear out if I remember? Or do we have two?

>>1187126
two storage rooms and three rooms that need repairs

>>1187021
>>‘I’ll see what I can do, but getting you a place at this time’s going to be the luck of the draw.’ (Try and see Ooyodo)

We have too many people living with us as it is

>>1187155

That's the wonderful thing, Kanmusus don't legally count as people yet so we're not breaking an occupancy laws.

>>1187021
>‘You can bunk in with the Division. You’re going to be working with us anyway.’ (Offer her a stay at the Barracks)

>>1187021
>You can bunk in with the Division. You’re going to be working with us anyway.’ (Offer her a stay at the Barracks)

Are the girls gonna be back at base the next day?

>>1187617
i believe so

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‘Well, you can bunk in with the Division.’ You offer. You don’t know if Ooyodo or The Admiral would appreciate being dragged out for accommodation issues after hours like this. ‘Since you’re going to be working with us, I might as well stay the night… or at least I get your sleeping assignment sorted out.’ At her hesitant expression, you reach out to assure her. ‘If I try anything funny – assuming I have the opportunity or motivation to – you have my express permission to gut me where I stand.’

It’s an honest offer from your end. The sleeping arrangements right now left the place a little bit more cramped than you would have liked, but there hadn’t been any complaints thus far from any of your KanMusu… and if she decided to keep on staying after tonight, then you’d actually have some motivation to sort out at least one of the set of rooms that you had closed off. You had put that at the back of your thoughts the last few days; Loudmouth’s presence might actually kick-start your motor so you could finally get on with sorting your barracks out.

Regardless of your duties as Commander of Yokosuka, there was still your role as the barracks’ man of the house.

‘I appreciate it Commander.’ said Loudmouth, catching your attention again and offering a genuinely grateful smile. ‘Thank you.’

It’s not long before the bottles are taken away and your pockets are lighter on coin and note. To your surprise – and your annoyance, as you were always a man who weighed value in coin – that you feel barely tipsy. With how much you had to shell out for The Captain’s bottle, you’d expected to be halfway between rambling and sobbing. The Captain must have been quite the lightweight to order something so expensive… and decidedly incapable of rendering you drunk.

You could count still count to five on both hands!

Loudmouth picks up her bag from the Army’s MP as you both exit the makeshift compound and leave Mobile Command. After the man exchanges your pass for the tag he had given you and you’re well down the road, a niggling thought jumps right out of your thinking cap.

Where was her pass?

‘Wait a minute… how did you get in there?’ You stare at her in confusion as the realization hit you. ‘I had to flash a pass and go through a bunch of hoopla. How come you didn’t have to?’

‘I told him I was the evening’s entertainment.’

‘What do you mean by – ?’

She shoots you a mischievous look.

‘Oh.’

Honestly. People could be such horndogs.

>‘So… I can’t keep calling you Loudmouth. It sounds pretty rude out of context.’
>‘Is killing as easy as it looks?’
>‘So… how long were you in the Navy?’
>‘So what about your career in the military? Are you… kind of permanently fired?’
>Write-In

>>1187818
>‘So… I can’t keep calling you Loudmouth. It sounds pretty rude out of context.’

First things first, I suppose.

>>1187818
>>‘So… I can’t keep calling you Loudmouth. It sounds pretty rude out of context.’

>>1187818
>>‘So… I can’t keep calling you Loudmouth. It sounds pretty rude out of context.’

>>1187818
>>‘So… I can’t keep calling you Loudmouth. It sounds pretty rude out of context.’

>>1187818
>>‘So… I can’t keep calling you Loudmouth. It sounds pretty rude out of context.’

>>1187818
>‘So… how long were you in the Navy?’

>>1187818
>‘So… I can’t keep calling you Loudmouth. It sounds pretty rude out of context.’

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‘I can’t keep calling you Loudmouth.’

She turns to you, adjusting the strap on her rucksack.

‘You know, people might get the wrong idea that I’m insulting you or something.’

‘That would be how it would look now, wouldn’t it?’ She chuckles, making way for a zooming motorcycle coming down the stretch.

The loud hum of an Army floodlight – a whole row of Army floodlights – along the other side of the street catches your attention… and the loud conversations on the topic of baseball and trading cards reaches your ears as the restoration work comes to a halt and the break hours begin for many a tired man.

The town looked so much more alive at night now. While its denizens hadn’t returned in droves, the lights and the streets were put back the way they were… or as close an approximation to how they used to be, anyway. Some of the buildings were ravaged beyond repair, but the more dangerous, unstable ruins had been properly demolished while the ones that were able to be restored had at least been patched up. The biggest change that you’d seen were the soldiers and the maintenance and reconstruction crew members bringing the semblance of a smile back to a town that so desperately needed it. The barking of laughter has you turning to an alley, where you spy your men sharing a smoke… one of them notices you, offering their Boss a playful salute.

‘A lot livelier than I would’ve expected from a frontline.’

You turn back to Loudmouth, her eyes on the beach… where you notice Tenryuu’s old Quartermaster Tent was gone, replaced by several larger tents and Army personnel sitting on steel barrels, gathered around what appeared to be a makeshift bonfire. Loudmouth’s opinion wasn’t unwarranted – the place did seem a lot more cheerful compared to the days that had gone by.

‘So, back to the root of the topic, Commander.’ She picks up the pace. You follow suit, matching her stride for stride. ‘You’re saying that my codename, as it is… is improper for address.’ You nod as she touches her finger to her chin, looking thoughtful. ‘That’s going to be a hard sell. They’ve been calling me that for ten years.’

‘Why did they call you Loudmouth?’ You frown. As far as you knew, she wasn’t particularly chatty – your drinking session together were length silences interspersed with the occasional question and reply.

‘No reason. It’s just what I was given.’ She shrugs, turning back to you with a smirk. ‘I’m sure you didn’t choose Ishmael either.’

‘That was temporary, though.’

She hums, striding in deep thought.

The both of you are interrupted by the sound of a gunshot… and the eruption of cheers.

You roll your eyes as you realize that the men on the beach were having a shooting contest.

'What do you think suits me better, then?'

>Come up with codename (Write-In/Reason)
>‘Can’t think of one.’ (Let it be)
>Write-In

>>1188161
>big tits

>>1188161
>>‘Can’t think of one.’ (Let it be)

>>1188161
>>‘Can’t think of one.’ (Let it be)

>>1188161
>‘Can’t think of one.’ (Let it be)

>>1188161
>‘Can’t think of one.’ (Let it be)

>>1188161
>‘Can’t think of one.’ (Let it be)

>>1188161
>>‘Can’t think of one.’ (Let it be)

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You pause for a moment. A few seconds ago, a plethora of names had hit you, but now, for some reason…

‘I… honestly can’t think of one.’ You chuckle, rubbing the back of your neck as you give her a full-blown grin.

‘I guess Loudmouth’s just going to have to stick around, then.’ She folds her hands behind her back, striding forward without another care. It wasn’t that important, anyway – as long as she knew what you were trying to convey, Loudmouth would be here to stay. ‘Your barracks are along this road, aren’t they?’

‘Right up the shoulder of the town and facing west.’ You clarify. The boom of gunfire makes you turn around towards the group of soldiers and workers having their own bit of fun, firing rifles at what appeared to be white dummies. ‘It used to be a reconverted hostel compound … The Admiralty leased it out to us after the town was hit. It’s not as big as we’d like it to be, but for now, at least… it’s home.’

‘City’s holding up a lot better than I thought it would.’ She comments solemnly, straightening her jacket. ‘I heard Ominato and Maizuru were wiped off the face of the planet. Navy had to send for evac… we were done in less than two days.’

You don’t reply. You’d seen just what had happened in Ominato… you’re not sure if the town could be recovered. It looked less like a ruin and more like a tornado had decided to set up camp before buggering off once the whole piece of land was flattened. It was pure luck that Ominato had endured as well as it had.

It’s not long before the pair of you arrive at the compound.

The lights were all on, to your surprise. At least they were according to the lit windows.

You enter the barracks…

‘Commander?’

And find yourself greeted by the surprised face of your Sub-Commander and Kaga, who was holding Samidare in place for some reason or other. The whole group, save for Yamato and Iowa, were lined up in the corridor clutching what you guess to be pails, mops and other janitorial tools of the trade. Even Nachi, who had a bandage wrapped all around her head from chin to crown and Murakumo, who was in an apron and wearing rubber boots and Musashi were there… although you couldn’t fathom why she was in her pyjama top and had chosen to forgo the bottoms. She too held items of interest – a feather duster and what looked like am empty picture frame.

And at the back in the doorway to the common hall was Shigure, sitting on an odd cylindrical contraption with tubes sticking out of it. Houshou, oddly, was on all fours on the floor.

You open your mouth to welcome your Squadron back… but find their expressions – and their demeanor… puzzling. Why did they look so scared.

‘What’s in the – ?’

You hear a light skittering sound… and the collective rumble that could only come from a dozen women screaming:

‘RAT!’

The whole building trembles.

END DAY 44

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>>1188688

Seriously? The death-dealing avatars of war are afraid of rodents? Hmm...wonder if we can weaponise them for use against the abyssal gals... ;)

>>1189629

They are not just ships, but also girls. It's important to remember that. And vermin infesting the locale is not good news.

>>1189629
When they were ships, they are aware of these things skittering, crawling all over them in nooks and crannies, filthy, breeding vermin.

Imagine being buried in a coffin of cockroaches. Trauma stays for some of them.

>>1189791

Didn't they also have roaches, or did the rats eat them all?

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You rub your temples as you step out of your quarters, feeling the crust in the corner of your eyes. Your prosthetic hoists the towel around your waist while the other shuts the door – a quietly as possible – so as not to wake the dozen or so girls that had taken up residence inside. The night had been one of bedlam – and Kaga, even with reconstructed fingers had no problem playing the role of the determined rat-hunter. Calming your Division down was the easy part – keeping them from relapsing into murderous beings given form and unloading their basic payload inside the barracks had been hard. Thankfully, you and Loudmouth had enough experience with the vermin to lead the hunt yourself and confine your suddenly-cowardly crew to the Common Hall as the both of you had scoured the bottom floors for the night’s chaos bringer.

It wasn’t hard to find it, although it did take better part of two hours to shoo it out back into the outer compound, where hopefully a stray cat or something could get it.

Through this all, Musashi, Tenryuu and – surprisingly – Samidare had been the calmer heads through the whole things; it was quite a sight, really, to see Musashi teasing a tearful Nagato and Samidare giving her sister a reassuring hug – you would have expected the opposite. Tenryuu had been disgusted by the presence of the rat and practically shrieked when it made a beeline for her on the fifth attempt at capture, but she’d otherwise turned out to be well-behaved.

That is… until the reveal that you and the Division’s newcomer had missed the pest’s partners-in-crime… who sent your Division, again, into a panic.

Deciding, after another horrible hour of hunting, that it was getting too late for this kind of ruckus – and that the maintenance crew could just come along in the morning on your request to do some extermination work of their own.

Your Division, however, was adamant of not sleeping in their own rooms… and decided that since yours was the largest, being about double the size of any other room in the barracks, it would fill their needs of shelter against the damnable pests until the clean-up commenced. The ones that couldn’t fit in all huddled in another room, probably well over its typical capacity.

Grabbing your toiletries, you decide to have a quick shower before the rest of them woke up. Not that you didn’t enjoy the company, considering the sheer number of occupants the place had, you don’t think you had the patience to wait for one of them to finish showering.

‘Good morning, Commander.’

Loudmouth, ever the career soldier, was already up and at it, a towel wrapped around her body and a toothbrush and two bottles in hand.

‘Good morning, Loudmouth.’

Entering the sink area, you set your things on the counter.

TBC

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‘Sleep well?’ She asks, beginning her own morning ritual.

‘As well as I could have.’ You grumble. Your throat felt a little sore – probably because one of your Division members had decided to have their heel on it for the whole night. Your room wasn’t a hotel suite and finding your own spot had been a struggle. ‘How about you?’

‘Well enough.’ Her answer mirrors your own.

She doesn’t say anything else, the both of you continuing to freshen yourselves up without much talk. It’s not the first time that you think that her nickname was in stark opposition to how she really was. Perhaps her Squadron had meant it as some sort of joke. After your last gargle, you throw the now-empty tube into the bin in the corner. You’d have to requisition one from the Quartermaster’s office or the maintenance crew later. Tossing your towel onto the rack, you head for the nearest shower, turning the knob and leaning back against partition, once again waiting for the heat to rise.

‘What are you doing?’ Loudmouth’s voice reaches you. You’d forgotten that Loudmouth had no idea of this little luxury that you’d been afforded.

‘Waiting for the hot water.’ You scratch the back of your head. ‘You let it run for about five minutes before you – !’

Before you can finish, Loudmouth – now fully nude – had turned the knob on an adjacent shower… and started to wash herself off first.

‘That’s a waste of resources, isn’t it?’

‘Well,’ you stiffen a little, trying to defend yourself, ‘it’s one of the few things we have here that works… somewhat.’ Reaching under the shower head, you feel the chill slowly dissipating from the water… but it’s still in no way as warm as you’d like. ‘I’m surprised that you’re fine with a cold shower in the morning.’

‘Cold water makes you more alert in the mornings than warm water.’ She mentions matter-of-factly. ‘Although, I don’t know if it’s the same for everyone.’ She squirts some shampoo from a small bottle, lathering her hair. ‘When you’re out on the field any shower’s pretty much a luxury, really.’

You open your mouth to say something… but she did have a point. Gauging the water temperature again, you decide that you didn’t need it that hot that often anyway… and get underneath the shower yourself, pouring the shampoo onto your hand and washing your hair right after. Loudmouth is back in her own thoughts – you’re a little surprised that she hadn’t made more of a drama of the fact that she was sharing a shower with a man she barely knew… but you assume that it probably wasn’t the first time she’d done this. It just wasn’t worth working up a stink about.

You admired the professionalism from her end.

‘Have you decided on my assignment yet?’

>‘We could use a combat instructor.’
>‘I could use someone to help with the paperwork – an assistant.’
>‘You think you can perform as a liaison?’
>Write-In

>>1190687
>combat instructior

>>1190687
>>‘You think you can perform as a liaison?’

>>1190687
>>‘You think you can perform as a liaison?’

>>1190687
>>‘You think you can perform as a liaison?’

>>1190687
>‘We could use a combat instructor.’

>>1190687
>>‘We could use a combat instructor.’

>>1190699
>>1190700
>>1190709
>>1190736
>>1190745
>>1190765
Coin flipped. Winner decided.

>>1190687
>Write-In

"Why don't you just shadow me for today and see where you think your skills could be best put to use?"

Probably too late, but we haven't really seen any skills beyond killing shit and drinking.

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For some reason or other, the first thing that comes to mind is Murakumo’s annoyance at Hiei’s lecturer… which made you realize something. You’d been so busy that you hadn’t actually cared to organize a proper training schedule for your Division; sure, Nagato was there by default, but you hadn’t actually put down a written instruction of drills and tactics. It almost makes you puke a gut at just how ill-prepared you had been in the last month of your career.

You were lucky that none of them had died.

‘We could actually use a combat instructor.’ You admit. ‘Not so much to teach my Division how to fight… but to organize training drills and such.’ You bite your lip as you turn back to Loudmouth, a heavy admission coming out from your end. ‘I’m a little guilty of neglecting their training drills – most of the time I’ve left them to their own self-study or Nagato’s instruction, but I think a dedicated instructor would do well to get our combat efficiency up. Would you be all right with that?’

She adopts a thoughtful pose, pausing in the middle of massaging her breasts.

‘I’ve run drills and classes before… but I don’t think I’ve ever had tactics built for open warfare.’

She had a point. There weren’t exactly many places to hide out in the open sea. It was mostly down to speed, power and precision… and getting lucky with a hit.

‘If you could throw them a tip or two or get them up by a few seconds, that’ll be improvement enough.’ You cross your arms, your lips thinning into a line as the facts of the case hit you hard. ‘As it is, I don’t think someone who spent years flipping a pan and playing with a spatula’s going to make a big difference. Any input from your end’ll be valuable.’

‘Have you asked anyone else to help?’

You open your mouth… before closing again. You hadn’t actively sought out assistance… but again, you hadn’t felt the inclination for it, either.

‘I did think about asking the Vice-Admiral or the Admiral… but they’re kind of busy with their own place in this war. The Admiral used to be part of the Navy and… well, you know the Vice-Admiral. They both have enough on their plate… and I can’t keep falling back on gut instinct and the basics every time. So if you’ll take the post, I’d greatly appreciate it.’

‘I don’t know how you and your Division stand right now.’ You nod at her admission. ‘If you can arrange for a small war game tonight, I’ll see what I can do.’

‘Of course.’ You concede, nodding in understanding. ‘I’ll contact the base administration to see something about payroll and accommodations.’

‘There’ll be no need.’ She turns the knob, ending her shower. ‘I think the couch suits my needs for now.’

‘I’ll check with you this evening, then.’

And without another word, she’s gone.

END INTERLUDE

Your attendants had decided to arrive early, which was a good thing because you wanted to sort out the little rodent problem before anything else was dropped onto the agenda. Filling out a request for immediate assistance, you file it and hand it over to your lanky attendant, who takes the file and rushes back out. You absently wonder how hard it would be to get a phone installed in here or any means of a direct communique. It seemed highly inefficient that you had to give your attendant something only to bolt off and come back at the very least an hour later with a direct reply… but you suppose that this building wasn’t meant to have a phone installed in it, being a re-converted hostel, after all.

The members of your Division – and Loudmouth – had left without much ceremony. Nagato was as eager to get back to her pile of work as you were bored of yours, uncharacteristically requesting a peck on the cheek before the start to her day. Kaga – who had also requested a goodbye kiss after seeing Nagato get one – and Musashi went off to liaise with someone from the MagiTek Department; a departure from their usual line of work, not that you knew Musashi to be involved in anything particular since her arrival. The others had left for their usual work days and Shigure was requested to attend an evaluation session for the day. Setting down the last document from the in your hands, you turn to LEIA and your bulky attendant, who were lost in their own world…

‘Do you understand just what you’re saying, you idiot? If I wanted one of those pretty boys I would’ve dated Senpai when he confessed.’

‘Of course I do, don’t make it sound like it’s so unreasonable! It’s perfectly normal – a man’s pride is a man’s pride after all.’

Arguing, of course.

‘Man’s pride this, man’s pride that! I already told you – be a little bit more confident in yourself, you idiot!’ She smacks him playfully, smugly staring him down. ‘You keep talking about this and that without considering that the one in question.’ She smirks, crossing her legs. ‘What makes you think I’m looking to upgrade?’

Your bulky attendant looks indignant, crossing his arms and looking away, his cheeks red with embarrassment.

‘It’s logic, right?’ He answers seriously. ‘I can’t keep up with those guys you hang around on a daily basis… so I’ll just have to work harder, right? Don’t you think that’s the kind of man you deserve?’

LEIA stutters, covering her beet red features behind her two hands.

‘Wh – What are you saying, moron…’

The sound of a slamming door catches your attention… and cutting their argument – for whatever value of it – short. Your lanky attendant charges into the room, covered in sweat.

POINTS LEFT: 5/5
>District Duties [2/3]*
>Supplementary Duties [1/2]*
>Division Duties [2/4]*
>Base Duties [1/2]

>>1191415
>>District Duties [2/3]*

>>1191420
>>1191443
Come on, guys, I don't want to explain how the point distribution works again.

http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/1142718/#p1145070

>>1191415
>>District Duties [2/3]*
>>Supplementary Duties [1/2]*
>>Division Duties [2/4]*

>>1191496
>District Duties (2)
>Supplementary Duties (1)
>Division Duties (1)
>Base Duties (1)
Derp me for thinking I was doing it wrong and deleting my revote

>>1191415
>District Duties (2)
>Division Duties (2)
>Base Duties (1)

>>1191415
>Base Duties [1/2]
>District Duties [2/3]*
>Division Duties [2/4]*

>>1191415
>District Duties (2)
>Supplementary Duties (1)
>Division Duties (1)
>Base Duties (1)

>>1191537
>>1191549
>>1191611
>>1191614
YOU ARE PARTICULARLY PRODUCTIVE:

District Paperwork Bonus: +5% on next collection
Supplementary Paperwork Bonus: Roll a 1d12 each
Division Paperwork Bonus: Roll a 1d12 each

*P.S. I will be flipping a coin per task every day. For every heads, the stack becomes +1. If marked by an asterisk, you guys are lucky and that task did not increase in the day that went by. Every time you reach 0 for a particular task, you get a chance for a bonus or a fixed bonus.

Rolled 10, 11 = 21 (2d12)

>>1191790

>>1191790
Before I forget, you can roll 2d12. The first one can be for your Supplermentary and the second cand be for your Division paperwork. All that's required to win one of those rolls is for someone in the next 5 rolls to get a 9+.

So get rolling.

Rolled 3, 3 = 6 (2d12)

>>1191798

Rolled 3, 3 = 6 (2d12)

>>1191790

Rolled 12, 6 = 18 (2d12)

>>1191790
>>1191798

Rolled 11, 11 = 22 (2d12)

>>1191790

>>1191802
>>1191824

..Well then!

Due to 4chan currently crapping up for people trying to upload images for the last few hours - and to preserve my sanity - I will be suspending the session until they get the stupid thing back up again.

Until that's fixed: Assalamualaikum

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>>1191853
test

>>1191981
fuck hiroshimoot fix this shit

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‘Commander.’

You raise your head to see… someone who wasn’t your assistant standing before you. He wasn’t large, but he was tall – much taller than you with a set of rounded glasses and a buzz cut that was barely hidden by his hat. Closer inspection of his uniform revealed to you that he was – judging by the pin that he wore on his left breast pocket – one of The Admiral’s own personal attendants. He swiftly forms a salute, which you return half-heartedly, gesturing for him to take a seat. Peering behind him, you see LEIA walking back to her own station. You’d been so engrossed in your work that you hadn’t so much as noticed the knocking or opening of the door.

‘Is there something I can help you with, attendant?’ You set down your pen, hoping to return to your work as soon as possible. You were already on a roll; any broken momentum would have had you slouching and your own attendants rolling their eyes at your poor work ethic. Nonetheless, courtesy and professionalism dictated that you offer the man a seat… which you of course, do. ‘Is there something The Admiral needs me for?’

‘Not so far as that, sir.’ He coughs, revealing a briefcase. He flips the briefcase open, taking out several thick folders for your viewing leisure. You pick one of them up, frowning as you bring it up close. ‘Those are the progress reports on the other running operations. The Admiral thought you’d like to have a look to see how things are going on the front.’

‘Progress reports, huh?’

You uncoil the string on one of the folders, taking the files out one by one.

‘Well…’

>Task: Roll a 3d6 for each Operation that you did not undertake to see how the other missions went. Successful roll requirements vary

>Lv. 3 20 (22 for GREAT SUCCESS)
>Lv. 2 16 (18 for GREAT SUCCESS)
>Lv. 1 15 (No Great Success)

‘Commander.’

You and the newly-arrived attendant look up to see your lanky attendant with another folder in hand. Turning towards the seated man, he follows up with a respectful bow.

‘Senpai.’

‘Yes, attendant?’

He holds out a folder, which you take. There was some gibberish on the tag for a title… and two more folders inside, considerably thinner than usual fare. One seemed to be from the MagiTek Department and the other from Maintenance. You frown – hadn’t you already contacted them this morning? What was this about?

‘The maintenance said that since they’re coming over today, they’d like for you to decide if there are any particular improvements you’d like them to appropriate. Nothing fancy, of course,’ he hurriedly adds, before tapping the other folder. ‘Also, The MagiTek guys are in a good mood, so if you have any gear you’d like upgrade…’

>Upgrade a KanMusu’s Attribute (+1)
>Specify a particular amenity that you would like to appropriate for your barracks (Specify)

>>1192035
Basically:

Roll 3d6s, choose which KanMusu you want to give a +1 and what you want for your barracks in particular.

Rolled 2, 2, 3 = 7 (3d6)

>>1192035
>Upgrade Tenryuu's OFFENSIVE
>Fix Room 8

Rolled 1, 6, 4 = 11 (3d6)

>>1192035
>kaga defense +1
she needs that
>fix room 6
they can fix the wiring

Rolled 6, 1, 2 = 9 (3d6)

>>1192035
>Nagato Defence
>Fix room 8

Rolled 5, 4, 2 = 11 (3d6)

>>1192035
>Kaga Defence +1
>Fix Room 8

Rolled 6, 5, 5 = 16 (3d6)

>>1192035
>Kaga defense
>fix room 8

Rolled 5, 2, 6 = 13 (3d6)

>>1192035
nagato's defence +1
fix room 8

>>1192038
>>1192041
>>1192043
>>1192053
>>1192063
Okay, let's see what we got:
OPERATION: GLASS HAMMER - 20 (MISSION COMPLETED)
OPERATION: CRIMSON DYNAMO - 18 (GREAT SUCCESS)
OPERATION: SPIRAL MANDOLIN - 16 (MISSION COMPLETED)

Results: Operation Glass Hammer - Forces repelled, but area dominance is not secured
Results: Operation Crimson Dynamo - Cruiser group is eliminated, patrol re-established
Results: Operation Spiral Mandolin - Forces repelled

Upgrade: Kaga's defence [+1]
Barrack Enhancement: [Fix Room 8]

>>1192111
Wow for once all the things have worked out

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You stretch in your chair, feeling content as the last of your workload leaves your desk and into the bag of your lanky attendant. You go around picking up the plates to a chorus of gratitude, bringing them to your plate and turning on the tap. You look across the room to see LEIA looking around in a slightly jumpy manner – no doubt she was a little too aware of your pest problem. Thankfully, the maintenance crew would be arriving soon to sort it out. Your attendants pick up the rest of the documents, your lanky attendant hoisting the bag and your bulky attendant holding the folders under their arms, eager to get on with their own agendas for the day.

‘We’ll be leaving now, Commander.’ Your bulky attendant salutes – your lanky attendant mimics his action immediately after. ‘The maintenance – !’

A loud knock on the door catches your attention – and theirs. LEIA immediately runs over to the entrance without so much as a request, opening the door and revealing several men in familiar orange suits… the maintenance crew had arrived. You tilt your head as you realize that this must be a newly-assigned crew, wearing the usual orange jumpsuits… but with a different man at the head of it all. He had a weird tattoo going down the side of his face and a toothpick in his mouth and wouldn’t look out of place being part of your District crew.

You notice him tipping his cap in LEIA’s direction before the whole lot of them approach your desk, carrying tools and that you couldn’t make heads of tails of… and a bottle with a skull and crossbones on it. Some of the men in the group give the place a good look around, scowling as one of them jabs a thumb in the corner and shaking their head.

‘Man, what would they do without us, huh?’

‘Shut it, ya bums.’ The tattooed man grumbles, walking towards you and performing a rigid salute. ‘Reportin’ for pest extermination, sir.’

‘You guys got the memo?’

‘Yup… a couple ‘a rats, right?’

LEIA jumps at the mention. Her boyfriend chortles… only to be hit at the back of the head for his troubles.

‘Oh, and are you guys able to clear one of the rooms today?’ You wonder if you’re over-stepping your bounds with the maintenance crew for a moment… but you realize right after that they didn’t come so often anyway, and who knew how long that request would take to process? ‘One of the ones upstairs?’

He remains silent for a moment.

‘We were told that it was for pest control, but… shouldn’t be an issue.’ He finally nods. ‘If you got a special request form, that is?’

Before you can say a word, your lanky attendant hands him the document. Talk about efficiency.

‘Okay.’

He claps his hands together.

‘Now beat it!’ He barks. ‘We got a job to do, don’t we boys?’

Cackles fill the room… and you and your attendants leave without another word.

>>1193738
4/4
>Visit Locations
>Look for your KanMusu (Specify)
>Look for Admiralty Staff
>District Management
>Write-In

>>1193747
>>Look for your KanMusu (Specify)
Takao

Got to give her an update

>>1193747
>Look for your KanMusu (Specify)
Yamato

>>1193747
>>Look for your KanMusu (Specify)
Yamato

>>1193747
>Visit Locations
Shit. We should probably hit up the Gym before Not!Ali hunts us down again. We should also follow-up on cooking lessons from the Chef.

And it probably wouldn't be a bad idea to check in with the Admiral or Vice Admiral regarding Loudmouth.

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The ruckus you hear inside – along with the tribal chanting – has you closing the door and joining your attendants as you make your way to the compound’s exit. You had some time to kill until the skirmish Loudmouth had requested… and since some time had passed since Yamato had been put under your charge, it would be a good time to check on how well she was doing. Akashi had requested for you to take care of her the best you could… and even if you didn’t know heads or tails of how to get about fixing her, there wouldn’t be much point – or any responsibility on your end – if you neglected in at least checking up on her and seeing how she was doing.

‘Would you guys happen to know where Yamato went?’

The lanky attendant hands off his bag to LEIA… who, incredibly, hoists the large asset with not so much a grunt.

‘She’s probably at the practice range, sir.’ Your lanky attendant reveals, scratching the back of his head. ‘She was there yesterday.’

‘Practice range?’ You frown. What was Yamato trying to do at the practice range? Her health didn’t exactly clear her for an exercise.

‘I was about to go there myself, but… seeing as you’re going, I think I’ll catch up later.’ He mentions further, ‘If you could, sir, if you see her before I do… please tell her that I’m just going to be running late. I need to go see The Admiral about a few things.’

You blink. That was an odd request.

‘Buddy, we are in a warzone.’ Your bulky attendant rolls his eyes – you notice that he was trying to grab the large bag from LEIA… to very little success, as the diva appeared to be a lot stronger than she looked. ‘I don’t know why you wanna keep askin’ The Admiral the same thing over and over again!’

‘Look. Just because you don’t have a problem with it doesn’t mean that I don’t!’ Your lanky attendant grumbles, crossing his arms and turning up his nose. ‘You know I’m allergic to cats! I can’t live with ‘em!'

As they devolve into their usual bickering, you and LEIA share a look of understanding… before make your way to the – conveniently – revving buggy by the exit. It wasn’t the Old Man, so you don’t hesitate in jumping in the back seat, a pair of MPs your only company aside from the driver. It’s not long before you’re gunning down the roads and in front of the busy din of Yokosuka’s base… where bright tents and construction machines were as common as air. Hopping down from the vehicle, you make your way to the practice range… and hear a splashing sound as you arrive at the bottom of the stairs.

‘Yamato.’

She was by the edge of the pool, unaware to your presence.

>Deliver the lanky attendant’s message
>‘Hello, Yamato, we… haven’t talked much since you were assigned.’ (Formal)
>‘How are you doing?’ (Inquire)
>'Trying to get some training in?' (Comment)
>Write-In

>>1194079
>Deliver the lanky attendant’s message
Might as well

>>1194079
>>‘How are you doing?’ (Inquire)

>>1194079
>>Deliver the lanky attendant’s message

>>1194079
>>‘How are you doing?’ (Inquire)

>>1194096
>>1194166
>>1194186
>>1194200
Flipping a coin. Coin flipped.

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‘Yamato.’

You approach the Super Dreadnought, who looked… distant, somehow. She was clad in a bikini, soaked top to bottom with her hair still done up but she didn’t look like she was aware of anything around her. Kicking her legs almost lazily, she sits at the edge of the pool, looking into the horizon just beyond the opening of the range as miniature buoys, fitted with dummies – some broken, some still in one piece – rock like scarecrows. As you near her, you hear the sound of low humming… and seeing that she still hadn’t noticed your presence, decide to try again.

‘Yamato.’

She tilts her head upward, her eyes widening as she realizes just who was there right next to her.

‘Commander?’

‘My attendant wanted me to deliver a message to you.’ You decide to get this out of the way. If Yamato was indeed waiting for him, then she needed to know that he was being being delayed; she tilts her head, looking puzzled. ‘He said that he’s got some things to sort out… he’ll be running a bit late.’

She doesn’t reply, looking back out to the sea.

‘Is that all, sir?’

You raise your eyebrow. Yamato probably didn’t intend to be rude, but her voice, as monotone as it was… sounded quite dismissive of you. Still, it wasn’t something that was worth throwing a fit about – after all, she’d been through a lot… and you hadn’t exactly been the most welcoming of hosts, aside from allowing her into your care. You crouch down, your head around the same level as hers, offering a diplomatic smile.

‘Actually… I came to see how you were doing.’ You let out a small laugh, hoping to ease yourself into her good graces. Getting a better look at her, she didn’t look like she was in the mood for a conversation, but there was a small voice at the back of your head that pushed you to at least make an effort. ‘Wouldn’t be a good caretaker if I didn’t check on my charges once in a while.’

She looks up at you, her eyes briefly flashing in annoyance – perhaps caretaker hadn’t been the best word to use. After what Musashi had told you… you definitely had to tread lightly.

‘I don’t mean it that way, of course.’ You wave your hands, backtracking. ‘It’s just, well… I guess that I wanted to just see if you were coping well.’

‘Thank you for your concern, sir.’ You’re not sure if it’s anymore dismissive than it is an acknowledgment, but there’s at least no venom in it. ‘And… thank you for the message.’

‘It’s nice.’ You laugh lightly, looking out to the horizon.

‘Hm?’

‘It’s nice that you’re out and you know… making friends?’ You clarify. It was always good to open yourself up at times like this.

‘He’s a nice guy.’

You don’t fail to notice the very, very faint pink on her cheeks.

>‘Nice guy?’ (Roll a 1d6 each)
>‘Akashi told me.’
>‘I’m sorry we haven’t talked much.’
>‘So… what are you doing here?’
>Write-In

>>1194454
>>‘I’m sorry we haven’t talked much.’

Rolled 5 (1d6)

>>1194454
>>‘Nice guy?’ (Roll a 1d6 each)

>>1194454
>>‘I’m sorry we haven’t talked much.’

Rolled 4 (1d6)

>>1194454
>>‘Nice guy?’ (Roll a 1d6 each)

Rolled 2 (1d6)

>>1194454
>‘Nice guy?’ (Roll a 1d6 each)
Here goes.

>>1194566

I am ashamed.

Rolled 4 (1d6)

>>1194454
>>‘Nice guy?’ (Roll a 1d6 each)
time to botch a roll!

Rolled 3 (1d6)

>>1194454
>>‘Nice guy?’ (Roll a 1d6 each)

File: Slayers Try.png (249 KB, 800x600)

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He’s a nice guy.

You want to giggle – or throw your head back in laughter – after hearing that word. There was something about those words that gave way to memories you would rather not have brought up again – not so much that they involved you, but because those memories were so nonsensical that you couldn’t help but let a bark. That word had never been thrown your way – not ever, but even so, you would have to be a moron to not have noticed the idiots around school that broke into tears when those words were thrown their way.

You’re not sure if they carried the same connotation, but it was hard not to latch on to it.

‘A nice guy, huh?’ You smirk, dropping onto your bottom and giving Yamato a playful wink. Alleviating the tension always did well – or almost always – worked for you in the past… there wasn’t a reason to stop now. ‘Ladies don’t say that unless they’re about to break a poor sap’s heart in two or don’t know what to say to them in the first place. So which one is it?’

‘You’re… probably one of the few people to call me a lady.’

Biting your lip, you wonder for a moment if you’d taken it too far, too soon. Yamato’s expression was one of resignation… and reluctance. There was a part of you that wanted to leave to her lonesome; to let her wait for her friend and go off and do other things… but the more rational part of you made you stay. You’d seen people trying to push others away; some needed their time and some just needed someone to ignore them and stay anyway.

Ever the gambler, you hope that she was the latter.

Because to you… it looked like she could really use someone around her right now.

‘Don’t change the subject on me.’ You playfully scold her, your palms, prosthetic and skin, pressing against rough, wet scement. ‘Nice guy?’

Yamato buries her face in her knees, mumbling something incoherent. You chuckle – a little manufactured on your part, but

‘W – Well, what else do you expect me to say?’ She stutters – almost adorably, you find, her eyes hidden from view.

‘I don’t know.’ You take a teasing tone, letting out a small snicker. ‘I guess I never expected anyone under my command to work that fast.’

‘Commander…’ She hisses, her cheeks even more flushed than before.

‘Red’s a good color on you.’

She squeaks, lifting her head and throwing a troubled look in your direction. You offer her an apologetic smile, turning up towards the ceiling.

‘But honestly, what… brought about this nice guy business? I’m not trying to pry, but… you’re not out to – ?’

‘Of course not!’

You hold back a smile.

It was good to see some life out of her.

>‘You know… you’re right that he’s a nice guy.’ (Encourage their friendship)
>‘It’s a little hypocritical, but… I think everyone should be on their own pages.’ (Tell her to cut it)

>>1195043
>>‘You know… you’re right that he’s a nice guy.’ (Encourage their friendship)
time to be a bro. just have to help Lanky attendant get rid of his shit fetish

>>1195043
>‘You know… you’re right that he’s a nice guy.’ (Encourage their friendship)

>>1195043
>>‘You know… you’re right that he’s a nice guy.’ (Encourage their friendship)
I think the Commander would encourage friendship

>>1195043
>>‘You know… you’re right that he’s a nice guy.’ (Encourage their friendship)

>>1195050
Shit fetish?

>>1195043
>>‘You know… you’re right that he’s a nice guy.’ (Encourage their friendship)

>>1195043
>>‘You know… you’re right that he’s a nice guy.’ (Encourage their friendship)

>>1195043
>‘You know… you’re right that he’s a nice guy.’ (Encourage their friendship)

>>1195043
>‘You know… you’re right that he’s a nice guy.’ (Encourage their friendship)

>>1195043
>>‘You know… you’re right that he’s a nice guy.’ (Encourage their friendship)

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‘You know… you’re right that he’s a nice guy.’

Yamato blinks as she turns towards you, looking puzzled at your words.

‘I know it’d be rude to pry anymore, but I can assure you that… as far as friends and acquaintances go around here,’ you get to your feet, dusting your pants off, ‘he’s not a bad place to start.’ You give her a playful wink, hoping to lift her spirits up a bit more. ‘I’m glad I was wrong.’

‘Wrong?’

You let slip a small, defeated grin.

‘You’re not doing too badly.’

She opens her mouth… before closing it again, evidently hesitant at giving an answer to your reply. You stare at the horizon by your ward, hands in your pockets as you take in the brilliant sheen of afternoon light reflected upon the surface of the sea. From this side… it didn’t look anything like the smoke-laden and turbulent battlefield that you were used to. A few seagulls squawk loudly, landing on the wall that made up the gap between the range and the sea; the dummies on buoys silently float into your direct view… and the sound of a light splash catches your attention. You turn down to see Yamato waist-deep in the pool of water, her hands on the edge.

‘Going for a swim?’ You stare at her in confusion. It seemed like an odd place to go for one.

‘No, I’m – !’ Her eyes widen as she hisses in pain, prompting you to reach for her – she smacks your hand away, glaring at you. ‘I can do this.’

It finally hits you just what she was trying to do.

‘Are you… trying to reactivate your weapons system?’

Yamato says nothing, biting her lip as she slides under the water, trying to lift her leg. You can tell that she’s trying to stand on water again – like the other ships, if the motion was any indication… only to be met with failure. Her hand slips and she goes under, prompting you to reach in and make a grab for her. She was heavy… enough to feel like she was going to pull your arm right out of its socket, but you somehow manage to bring her back in.

She curses, slamming her fist along the edge. Your confusion and worry reaching a din, you glare at her.

‘Yamato, I don’t know what you’re trying to achieve by doing this, but – !’

‘If I can get my magic circulation back… then opening the core again will be a breeze. Lock-ups have happened before and this isn’t any different.’ Her tone takes a haughty quality – she’d been under the surface for less than ten seconds and she already sounded out of breath. ‘Akashi knows – !’

‘Akashi wanted you to recover in your own time.’ You scold her. ‘Not force whatever kind of – !’

At her hurt look, you stop.

‘If I don’t try… there’s no use in me being here.’

Before you can reply, she’s back in the water, hands on the edge again.

>‘Yamato, this isn’t something you can rush.’
>‘Have you been doing this since you got back?’
>‘I’ll leave you to it, then.’ LEAVE
>Write-In

>>1195211
>>‘Have you been doing this since you got back?’

>>1195211
>‘Have you been doing this since you got back?’

>>1195211
>>‘Have you been doing this since you got back?’

>>1195211
>>Write-In
>if you want to do try this at least have someone here to make sure you don't over extend yourself, like me, my attendant, or your sister. plus there are other ways you can help around here.

>>1195211
>>‘Have you been doing this since you got back?’

>>1195211
>>‘Have you been doing this since you got back?’

>>1195211
this >>1195224

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‘Have you been doing this since you got back?’ You take an accusatory tone, placing your hands on your hips and staring down at her. Yamato’s lack of an immediate reply… along with the fact that she seemed reluctant to make eye-contact with you, confirms your suspicions more than words can. ‘You know what Akashi will do to you if she finds out you’ve been pulling this stunt.’

It was a downright dirty tactic from your end, threatening her with what would happen should Akashi find out she was out and about trying to force her core to open again rather than let the healing come naturally. Not to mention what Akashi would do to you if she found out that you’d been allowing her, under your nose, to do something as reckless as this. As clumsy an attempt as it looked, you didn’t know much about KanMusu physiology to risk anything – as far as you were concerned, Akashi’s request was something to heed, not ignore.

The determined look in Yamato’s eyes, however, clearly stated to you that she had no intention of letting something like that stop her.

‘I know my body better than anyone else… if I can shock my core back into activation, I should be able to get my basic weapons system online.’ She grunts, pushing herself out of the pool. ‘The circulation of magical energy is keeping it from deploying any sort of mechanism, passive or upon activation. If I can put enough – !’

‘Yamato, what you need right now is rest.’ You had heard enough. ‘Doing this isn’t going to change much, if anything at all. You’re barely a week removed from a restoration op and somehow you think this is a smart thing to do?’

‘If – If I can’t fight, then what good am I?!’ Her face contorts, glaring daggers at you. ‘It’s not as if you know what it feels like, so if you can do me a favor and just shut up and get going, then – !’

You take a step back, blinking.

You had not expected that.

From the shocked look on he

Her eyes widen in realization as she realizes just who she had taken that tone to. She pushes herself out of the pool in one big motion… immediately prostrating herself on all fours. Rather than your satisfaction… your find your horror at the act rising as she looks up at you, a distressed look in her eyes.

‘I – I’m sorry, sir, that was out of line!’ She squeaks, bowing her head to the ground again. ‘Please forgive me!’

An awkward silence takes over the both of you. As Division Commander, you were used to the odd jibe, but…

‘Yamato,’ you clear your throat,‘on your feet, soldier.’

She rises to her full height, a whole inch taller than you, trembling head to toe.

>‘Is he helping you with this?’ (Chastise, Inquire)
>‘I’m not here to rip on you, but I am worried.’ (Concern)
>‘I believe discipline is in order.’ (Strict)
>‘It wasn’t as if I wanted you around anyway.’ (Retort)
>Write-In

>>1195567
>write in
yamato, i cant fight and i hate it every second of that
every scar, every hole, every gash the fleet gets i say to myself "if i could have fought with them that would not happen" not just me, but every commander, admiral and soldiers DESIRES to fight, but we cant
i know its bad for you but can you imagine for us? we lost entire cities, many lost families and homes, i lost an arm
so do not give me the i dont understand, because i do
and i am the first one who wants you back on action, but this things need time
(a concerned but calm aproach)

>>1195567
>>1195596 This

>>1195596
also this

>>1195596
this works

>>1195596
This

>>1195596
This

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‘I don’t know what you think you’re worth… and I don’t know you that well, but… just because you can’t fight doesn’t mean you’re worth any less to anyone that matters.’

You rub your neck. This was venturing into territory that you weren’t as comfortable with as you had previously thought.

‘It’s not… about having worth.’ She mumbles, barely audible as she bows down deeper. ‘It’s about being able to fight. To do something.’ She looks up, her eyes mirroring something you can’t quite understand. ‘You don’t know what’s…’ She pauses, dipping into a quick bow. ‘Sir.’

You look to the horizon – the seagulls had begun fighting over some piece of scrap, making loud squawking noises and shattering any chance for silence to follow. A tiredness seems to permeate around the both of you as something much too familiar for your liking emanates from her. The posture, the rigid determination… the need for validation.

‘Then you do what you can.’ You answer calmly, letting out a breath. ‘No one expects you to be an overnight savior – I sure don’t, and neither does anyone else back at the barracks.’

You chuckle, if a little humorlessly.

‘What do you do when you can’t fight, then?’

A pause washes over the both of you. It had an easy enough answer… but seeing Yamato’s reluctant gaze, you feel that an easy answer wasn’t what she wanted.

‘What everyone who can’t does.’ You rub the back of your neck. ‘Everything else that they can.’

She doesn’t reply.

‘You know… I get frustrated too. I can’t really help it, really, but… I’m a guy.’ You think you must sound like a moron now. ‘I was raised to open doors for ladies and carry their bags home; and every time I send them out there I feel like it should be me, you know… instead of just sitting back and telling ‘em to move left or right.’ You let out a sigh. ‘Trust me when I tell you that I know how you feel… but if you’re gonna say that, then how do you think every soldier out there in the city feels putting their lives into your hands? They’ve been trained to fight as much as you – as much as Nagato, Tenryuu. Definitely more than me.’

She looks away from you, silent, still.

‘But they do what they can. Even if it’s a little, even if it’s just helping patch up a block… they do it. Because they know they can’t.’

Her lips thin into a line… you’re not sure if you reach her.

‘If you’re still insistent on this… I won’t stand in your way. But, you know… I’d think that there’d be a lot of people upset that you weren’t taking care of yourself.’ You give her one last smile. ‘Even if you don’t.’

She bows respectfully.

You give the still Yamato one last look before leaving, hoping that tomorrow would be a better day… for both of you.

3/4
>Visit Locations
>Look for your KanMusu (Specify)
>Look for Admiralty Staff
>District Management
>Write-In

>>1196084
That went well.

>>Look for your KanMusu (Specify)
Takao

>>1196084
>Look for Admiralty Staff (the major)
by the love of god, we gotta go meet the guy already

>>1196091
He's not Admiralty Staff.

You don't know where he is, so if you want to look for him you have to go to Mobile Command and check if he's there or ask someone where you can find him. This may or may not cost you extra points.

>>1196094
>Visit Locations (mobile command)
lets go to the mobile command then

>>1196084
>Visit Locations
Imperial Army HQ

>>1196105
What is the actual reason we are meeting up with the Major?

>>1196115
sidequest, hes very similar too us in expecience plus a friend in the army is a very good thing to have

>>1196118
I mean sure that's nice and all but that doesn't really guarantee sidequests anymore than anything else, maybe we could use this period of free time to learn cooking for kanmusu, and anything else we promised we would do previously.

>>1196127
sure if we dont meet him we go straight to that or training

>>1196084
>Look for your KanMusu (Iowa)
Can we please give her the dress we bought her and never had a chance to actually give it to her.

>>1196128
I really just want to tick this off our bucket list first

>>1196127
Cooking on point 3 then night time workout training on 4?

>>1196142
That sounds okay, but we should also check up on some of our kanmusu every once in a while.

>>1196146
I mean thats just for today.

I think we need to settle on a routine of at least 1 point on cooking and workout each, alternating, every two days.

>3 pts (something else), 1 pt cooking
>3 pts (something else), 1 pt workout

That will at least net us some progress on them while allowing us to continue doing stuff around the base and outside.

>>1196157
unless emergencies, it does sound good

>>1196084
I'll change my vote here >>1196089 to
>Look for your KanMusu (Iowa)

I hope we'll find Takao soonish to let her know about the new update to the situation though.

>>1196183
We should wait on the update until we actually get word from the Captain on how it went, since he said we would get an answer within 48 hours.

>>1196194
True though I just think with something that close to the heart, any form of news, even if unconfirmed, will be appreciated.

>>1196084
>Visit Locations (mobile command)
I'd rather we spring the happy news on Takao than get her hopes up

>>1196084
>Look for your KanMusu (Specify)
Kaga, we haven't spoken since we were almost consumed.


I can get behind this >>1196157 fully, I've been wanting to make sure we start to workout, and I think that finally getting around to cooking would be good too. I always seem to be late to the party when it comes to choosing actions though

>>1196084
>>Look for your KanMusu (Specify)
>Kaga
must get somewhat explanation about attempted Soul Rape and devouring

File: No, Not Like This, Dudes.png (160 KB, 350x308)

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You walk up the stairs, walking past the lonely-looking table and back out into the busy compound. To your surprise, you see a pair of cement trucks backing down… and clad in an orange jumpsuit, Akitsumaru, who had a whistle in her mouth as she guided them towards what appeared to be a gigantic barrel that had been cut in half. Several men in various states of dress, carrying large metallic items under their arms hurry past the two trucks, yelling what you can only describe as code while a man sporting shaded glasses gestures for them to approach him.

Akitsumaru, her eyes meeting yours, offers a casual wave and a small, friendly smile. You give one in return.

You near the exit of the compound, stopping right behind the wall as soon as a large military truck rolls in, hauling what you guess to be a large generator. Construction and restoration work was well under way for Headquarters now that the town had at least been returned to a semi-livable state. Seeing the army men jump down from the truck though… you realize it would be rude not to check up on your acquaintance. Raising a hand, you wave down a buggy zooming past, the obvious overload of men in the back seat falling over at the sudden stop the driver had taken. The driver, a man in glasses, gestures for you to enter.

‘Are you headed to Mobile Command?’

‘What?’

‘The Imperial Army’s tent.’

‘I’ll be passing it, yeah.’ He pats the seat next to him. ‘Hop on, sir.’

The driver is a welcome change to the devil-may-care attitude of the old man; in fact. You’re still regaled by the stories from the mouths of the men in the backseat. Apparently, Romeria suddenly had a bone to pick with Taiyouga, whatever it was – you can’t imagine what they could have on their minds, though, considering just how much detached both of them had become in the last ten years. Haszad was one barrier – the war was another one. You catch something about money or debt or interest but nothing more.

You can’t imagine anyone worrying about money at a time like this.

It’s not long before you’re jumping out of the buggy and onto the pavement, a familiar face with his arms behind his back standing before you, glaring at all before his eyes.

You flash your pass… and again, are given your colored tag and a finger directing you to the only place your pass allows you to go: the makeshift bar.

Which was now… empty, save for the man from yesterday, still on the couch and looking troubled as ever, a pair of ranked soldiers sitting by a small foosball table and the Sergeant that had bumped into you, who had a newspaper in her hands and was busy scanning through it.

The bartender – a different man from yesterday – shoots an inquisitive gaze in your direction, but says nothing.

>Talk to the distressed-looking man
>Talk to the Sergeant
>Talk to the bartender
>Talk to the pair of ranked soldiers
>Write-In