>>2813911
I'd like to apologize in advance for those two terrible Ashes of Rhysode sessions. I was experimenting with a few Questing formats and they ended up falling fat. I'll be returning for the normal narrative style with the next one. Very sorry, guys.

>>2813911
>>Talk to another KanMusu (Specify)
>Nagato
also keep an eye out lads, Mech's hinted at something happening during the Dojo

>>2813921
supporting

>>2813921
Supporting
>>2813913
It's cool man, I'd much rather have you experiment and find what works than be stuck in one format you might not fully enjoy. You're one of the extremely few QMs out there I can trust to both not die and not get board of game running, least I can do is cut you some slack when things don't work perfectly.

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‘Hey.’

Nagato turns to face you as you raise a hand in greeting, a cocked eyebrow and an amused upturn of the lips present. She’s no different from usual; arms crossed and over her chest as two KanMusu zoomed between the both of you, swinging weapons in a manner that would have had you calling to a halt if they weren’t hard-built spirits of war. Standing close to Tenryuu’s group, her attentions go from you to the sight of your Light Cruiser conducting her duties as one of Murakumo’s instructors, sheathing and unsheathing her blade in demonstration for the trio that now surrounded her. The gesture to approach is given, and you find yourself back where you’d started … only this time with the company of your Sub-Commander.

‘Aren’t you going to have a go?’

Nagato giggles behind a closed fist before replying, ‘Not … right now. I’m fine here, thank you.’

‘Really? Considering how pragmatic you are, I would’ve thought that you’d jump at the chance to swing a sword or a mace around.’

She hums lightly, tilting her head.

‘Usually,’ she concurs, ‘but I think for now, it’s best that the specialists get the rest of the base up to scratch. We’re not exactly open-minded when it comes to the applicability of armaments.’

‘Murakumo said as much,’ you grunt, nodding and crossing your arms. ‘Something about habits or something or … something.’

‘It’s like instructing a righty to bat left.’

That analogy you could get.

Yes, you could.

‘But you took that plunge, didn’t you?’ you inquire, now being treated to the sight of a KanMusu that had inadvertently stabbed herself through her hand with one of the blades. Tenryuu’s irritation and the aforementioned KanMusu’s nervous grin is the only indicator of distress, though; she marches right out of the trio and towards one of the on-site medics. ‘I mean, I heard that your name being mentioned once or twice … thought you’d want to take a role that’s a little more active once word got out.’

She laughs.

It doesn’t take much of an ear to discern that it’s quite … uncharacteristic.

‘My … preference was a little too exotic to apply in practical terms. The whole point of having an option in melee is as a back-up that’s able to fit within combat parameters … not to try going out there looking like a dork that doesn’t know the difference between fantasy and reality.’

‘You lost me.’

Nagato sighs.

‘You wouldn’t get it,’ she lets out, smiling wryly … and looking halfway embarrassed. ‘But if you’re worried about me not taking part … don’t. I know my way with a sword enough, Vice-Admiral.’

‘So you used a sword?’

Nagato sighs, her shoulders drooping … and her cheeks pink.

‘I know how to use one without cutting my own limbs off,’ she replies distantly. ‘I don’t think I’d be able to pull off that trick you did with Tenryuu, though …’

>>2814047
>'Guess not.' (Arrogant)
>'Well, not all of us can be dashingly handsome and swift on the draw.' (Joke)
>'It was just luck. If Tenryuu'd pulled on her KanMusu strength ...' (Self-Aware)
>'Thanks.'
>Write-In

>>2814052
>'It was just luck. If Tenryuu'd pulled on her KanMusu strength ...' (Self-Aware)

>>2814052
>>'Well, not all of us can be dashingly handsome and swift on the draw.' (Joke)

>>2814055
>>2814058
Flipping a coin. Coin flipped.

File: Fond Smile.jpg (156 KB, 850x1275)

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‘I got lucky,’ you confess, letting out a sigh. As much as you wanted to—and you really wanted to—go around bragging that you’d taken a KanMusu on the draw and won … but you know just what had allowed the circumstances to favor you. It was just luck. ‘It was just luck. If she’d pulled on her KanMusu strength, I’d be flat on the ground. The only thing I could do was press on on my own weight and move to disarm if I wanted a win.’

‘And you’re not … going to count that as a victory?’

A yell catches your attention: the KanMusu from before had just had the blade dislodged from her hand … and had her hand dunked in what appeared to be green plastic bucket with a red cross on the side. Tenryuu’d abandoned her post as demonstrator to march to the KanMusu in question, stomping and looking like the most displeased discipline master you’d ever seen. The Kantai Steel sword finds itself lodged tip first into the ground as a stern lecture starts; you can’t help but smile at the absurdity of the situation.

You’d be crying your eyes out from that, yourself.

‘I am, but, well, it’s like golf I guess,’ you finally reply, shrugging as you observe the scene of Tenryuu tending to her assigned flock. The KanMusu in question marches away after a few stern words with Tenryuu picking her blade up and placing it on her shoulder, moving to continue her instruction of her remaining students. ‘I know I played the game at a handicap.’

‘I wouldn’t take that much away from you, personally,’ Nagato muses, throwing a wink your way. ‘You’re forgetting something pretty important doing that.’

You cock an eyebrow, feeling … admittedly, a little puzzled.

‘Like what?’

‘You put your opponent in a situation where, for all intents and purposes, with all things remaining equal … you’d be the winner anyway.’

You frown, shaking your head as the disagreements began to pile up in the creases of your brain.

‘That’s being a little optimistic on the take,’ you return, a little more bluntly than you’d intended for it to be … but a retort all the same. ‘If Tenryuu remembered she was a KanMusu, she would’ve just needed to take a step forward and twist her wrist a little more to get me on the ground. No way I’m recovering from that even with a hundred computers hooked up and running practice simulations.’

‘Raw strength is an attribute that’s hard to match,’ Nagato agrees, furthering your puzzlement. ‘You’re not seeing the flip-side, though.’

‘And that’d be?’

Nagato chortles slightly, bringing a small fist to her lips as her eyes dance with amusement.

‘That if your strengths were on the same level, Tenryuu would have been in a situation where she’d been out-thought and out-witted into a situation where victory wouldn’t have been possible in the set premise. All things considered, to her … she could have only won by breaking the set parameters.’

‘And?’

Nagato giggles lightly.

‘Try to imagine being the smartest KanMusu on record being out-smarted by a human in their own realm of specialty.’

It’s hard not to smile back.

>Write-In

>>2814280
>well when you put it that way then i will count that as a win

>>2814280
I had not thought about it from that perspective.

>>2814280
>Well when you put it that way...but come on, what was your real weapon choice? Don't give me sword, obviously there was something else.

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‘Never thought of it like that before.’

‘It’s telling of you to not getting carried away, though,’ Nagato muses a little more, nodding towards the sole Light Cruiser of your Division … who was now raising her hands above her head and demonstrating some sort of parry. ‘I’m sure Tenryuu appreciates you not rubbing it in her face, either.’

‘Well, it’s a notch on my belt, at the very least,’ you sound, although, personally, even with Nagato’s insistence, you didn’t really feel like it was. ‘I guess I just never really thought how tactical application would work going up against you girls … would’ve thought that you’d take me down for two before I even sniffed a win.’

Nagato snorts, smirking wryly once more.

‘We’re not very … imaginative in that sense,’ she grunts out, a smidgen of annoyance laced in her words. ‘One of the things that the Stream allows us is the capacity for thought beyond … practice. KanMusu are restricted by certain attributes as much as we’re empowered by them; it takes more than two hands on a push to make us actually consider things outside the usual. Maybe that’s why we’re the perfect war machines: routine means routine to us and we don’t give a hoot that it does.’

There’s a dark bit of humor in there … even if you didn’t understand it that well.

‘I think you girls work just fine,’ you voice, trying to sound upbeat. ‘I mean … no one’s perfect, but as far as I care, you’ve been doing the heavy lifting around here. You, Tenryuu, Nachi, Shigure … all I do is tell you where to skiff over.’

‘We’re uniform and predictable at our core,’ she muses, meeting your statement. ‘Unlike you humans, we don’t really feel a need to deviate out of pure need. I don’t think we’d be able to operate as well as we do without you at the helm … so no; I can vouch from first-hand experience that you don’t just tell us where to skiff over.’

The both of you share a light laugh as the ocean breeze hits again. For some reason or other, it doesn’t bother you as much.

‘Heard that before.’

‘I don’t mean to make you uncomfortable bringing this up,’ she says, sounding worried.

You throw her as reassuring a smile as you can muster.

‘Isn’t that my line?’

‘Probably,’ Nagato jokes, wearing a defeated smile. ‘You definitely do have bragging rights beating Sendai at her own game, though. That one you can take full credit for.’

You close your good eye as you bring your unwittingly chilled hands to your mouth, blowing hot air in.

‘That, Nagato, I intend on.’

‘Ho? Where did all that humility go to, I wonder?’ she questions playfully, jabbing you with her elbow.

You don’t give your Sub-Commander the dignity of an answer as the both of you turn your attention back to Tenryuu’s batch, basking in each other’s company.

>>2814571
>'What do you mean that the Stream allows you for ... extra capacity?'
>'So you do have experience swinging a blade, then?'
>'How'd patrol go? Nothing too arduous, I hope?'
>'You know, I never thought that you and Kasumi would ... get along so well.'
>'I should go.'
>Write-In

>>2814579
>>'What do you mean that the Stream allows you for ... extra capacity?'

>>2814579
>'What do you mean that the Stream allows you for ... extra capacity?'

>>2814579
>'What do you mean that the Stream allows you for ... extra capacity?'

>>2814579
>'What do you mean that the Stream allows you for ... extra capacity?'

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‘What did you mean by the Stream allowing for … extra capacity?’

She stares at you quizzicall—no, not quizzically. It was an expression one wore when someone had repeated the obvious to them; her stare is one akin to when a teacher had to tend to a student that had made an identical inquisition that another student had previously conducted out loud and in public. Or, at the very least, that’s what it felt like. There’s the low rumble in her throat as she tries to communicate her thoughts … and you brace yourself for the underlying sarcasm that would, with no doubt, arrive with her words.

‘I would’ve thought that they’d at least cover that in basic,’ she starts, wearing a slight frown. ‘KanMusu aren’t exactly summoned with rational understanding to our reborn state, you know?’

It’s your turn to wear one now.

‘I don’t get it.’

‘Emotions and the methodology of … feelings and morals and the like,’ Nagato continues, her voice sounding slightly uncertain as she noticeably searches for the right terminology (a feeling that you’re too acquainted with to not be familiar), ‘they’re no inherent to the average KanMusu. A lot of us only really have a sense of … regret and anger coming back out; it’s the first thing we remember. We don’t really know what we feel … only that we do by the time we arrive. A noted attribute of the Stream is the bridging the thoughts, emotions and spiritual strengths of you … and of us. At the same time, having that connection sort of … opens up to a more … varied reception. I wouldn’t call it a side effect, per se. It’s what the Shamans use to further attune and tether us to this world, after all.’

‘Wait, Shamans can—’

It’s too obvious a statement. Of course they did.

‘So the Shamans use the Stream to tether you and … ground you proper?’

‘We’re not particularly emotional except for a few … exceptions and interests,’ she goes on, ‘and you’ll have to ask Houshou if you want to know the what and the how proper, but in a sense, our connection to you supplements our understanding of … you and us, I suppose. You can think of it as a why and how to back up the what of the KanMusu’s spectrum of thought.’

She gives a sarcastic snort at the end, wearing a slight scowl.

‘Like brainwashing?’

Nagato gives you another flat stare.

Bad joke, you know.

‘So outside of being a battle-ready connection between Commander and KanMusu, you’re saying that I’m essentially relaying my own … spectrum … of thoughts your way.’

She looks thoughtful for a moment.

‘That’s about the size of it, I suppose. Kaga and Houshou would probably know more … or …’

As Nagato trails off, you raise a hand to cut it to a halt. You got the hint.

‘Right, him.’

She nods again.

>>2816482
>'I think you're sufficiently proficient at this emotion thing. You're more empathetic than I am.'
>'I thought you guys had the full range but none of the applicability being summoned. Show what I know.'
>'So Carriers are the exception, I get it.'
>Change the topic (Specify)
>Write-In

>>2816487
>>'I think you're sufficiently proficient at this emotion thing. You're more empathetic than I am.'

>>2816487
>'I think you're sufficiently proficient at this emotion thing. You're more empathetic than I am.'

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‘I think you’re sufficiently proficient at this emotion thing,’ you jest, crossing your arms. ‘You’re more empathetic than I am.’

Nagato sighs tiredly.

‘That’s because your management scope’s tiny.’

You grimace, if only slightly.

‘Well, I wasn’t really ever good at being around people proper.’ It’s less of an admission; more of an underline than a statement in itself. ‘I don’t think I need to regale you on that catch.’

‘I just find it strange that you’d alienate yourself by choice instead of pushing through,’ Nagato states. ‘You’ve shown enough determination around us to prove that statement wrong.’

If the last grimace was slight, this one was visible from worlds beyond.

It was hard—it is hard—to fathom just how far the degree of optimism went with Nagato … with everyone in your Division, really. As much as they’d throw their words, left, right, center or below the belt … it was kind of strange to have someone to actually think the best of you, no matter how bad you did. No matter how much you screwed up, no matter how much you fell … there was someone there who was willing to kick you into gear and hoist you right back up, not necessarily in that order. It was an amazing paradox, no matter how many times you’d repeat the words, it was a wonder that your KanMusu could be so much more human than … you.

‘Maybe it just works because I find you guys worth the hassle. Haven’t really found one for the rest of humanity just yet.’

She lets out another laugh. Genuinely amused, if the jingle was of any indication.

‘I can see where that train of thought stops and goes, yes,’ she manages, clutching one side and glancing towards you with dancing red orbs. ‘It’s hard to actually feel anything but contempt for your fellow man when all he does is yell an order at you over the counter or starts ticking you off from pure miscommunication, isn’t it?’

Your Sub-Commander’s smile is bright and mischievous.

It seemed that Murakumo and Takao didn’t have a duopoly on that resource after all.

‘It’s hard to feel anything when you don’t see anything that’s worth actually being connecting by,’ you declare quietly, thinning your lips.

‘Maybe,’ Nagato agrees, ‘but I think that you’re human because that part’s so hard.’

You cock an eyebrow. ‘Getting a little philosophical there, no?’

She giggles behind a closed fist. ‘It’s an interesting topic … and that dichotomy, I think … that gives us enough of a reason to fight, if nothing else.’

‘Because we’re self-destructive assholes by default and need some parental guidance regardless of the presence of sea zombies?’

‘That,’ Nagato chuckles, ‘and that I believe more than anything else … you deserve a future so you can actually find that answer for yourselves.’

‘And if we don’t?’

Her smile doesn't fade.

‘Call me an optimist.’

>>2817464
>'How are things going in and around with administration?'
>'So you do have experience swinging a blade, then?'
>'How'd patrol go? Nothing too arduous, I hope?'
>'You know, I never thought that you and Kasumi would ... get along so well.'
>'I should go.'
>Write-In

>>2817467
>'How'd patrol go? Nothing too arduous, I hope?'

>>2817467
>>'So you do have experience swinging a blade, then?'

>>2817467
>'How'd patrol go? Nothing too arduous, I hope?'

>>2817467
>'How'd patrol go? Nothing too arduous, I hope?'

Never read a single thread of this, is it any good? From which thread should I start?

>>2819067
Thread 1
Expansive worldbuilding and compelling characters
Saving humanity from the monsters of below as well as within
Smut with thirsty boats mostly relegated to pastebin
Good luck

>>2819067
first few threads will be iffy cause we were working shit out
and then enjoy the sporadic shitfests we got into over the past 2 years in thread

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The both of you settle into your positions as spectators to Tenryuu’s continued instruction of sword technique and balance. Now relegated to a non-participatory position, you begin to empathize with the KanMusus’ initial reluctance in opening themselves up to melee combat. Boring was a word that you’d describe the scene before you without hesitation; tedious was another. Tenryuu’s tendency towards detail had turned the scene into a sort-of outdoor university lecture, with the girls exchanging—and shifting between—rudimentary and advanced strikes, a volume down from the previous intensity that you’d stepped into not an hour ago. Judging by the shift in footwork priorities, you’re able to pinpoint that your victory probably had something to do with the instructor turning away from strikes and swipes and towards something that had more in common with waddling ducks and crabs with a license to dance.

‘How’d patrol go?’

As it was with all basic go-tos, yours when faced with boredom in a social sea … was to talk with the nearest party available.

Besides, it wasn’t as if you weren’t going to ask about it anyway.

‘I mean, did you guys run into trouble or anything?’

‘The assignment’s too far from any significant breach point to actually have anything like that happening to us, sir,’ Nagato replies formally (although, you notice, not without a tinge of amusement). ‘That you’d assign such a heavy force for a lower tier assignment feels a little overkill, if you ask me.’

Your cheeks turn slightly pink as you give one side a scratch.

‘I didn’t know what to do!’ you clumsily hiss, scrunching your nose as an off-balance grunt follows right after. ‘I mean, how was I suppose to know I was going to town on the basil with a hot vat of oil?’

She blinks, wearing a slight frown.

‘What?’

‘Cook-speak, don’t … don’t dwell on it,’ you sigh, rubbing your temples. ‘I’m just saying how was I to know what kind of threshold was there! It’s not like they left a sticky on the fridge telling me not to put you in.’

Nagato sighs again.

‘Considering team make-up and resource pools, I would’ve thought that you would’ve been able to scale the priority dictation yourself,’ she grunts in annoyance, sounding more like the Admiral than she did her usual self. ‘In any case, you’ve essentially saddled up a fully-armed tank to watch out for neighborhood break-ins. Nothing’s going to come that far out unless it’s a proper invading force … and not on the nav points set on this patrol, that’s for sure.’

You give a slight wince.

‘On the other hand, there isn’t anything that’s going to get past us on this particular assignment level, so if nothing else, we’re not going to be coming back ragged or missing limbs.’

‘So nothing, then?’

Nagato gives a slight tilt of her head.

‘Hopefully nothing.’

>>2821216
>'Borders are secure; that's good news.' (Upbeat)
>'Any of the other patrols report in abnormalities?' (Concern)
>'Changing the subject ... how're things going on in administration?' (Inquire about internal affairs)
>'So, uh, you really don't want to get in there and pop a swing or two?' (Delve into her so-called experience)
>'You know, moving back to the last few days, I'm a little surprised how well you and Kasumi get along.'
>'I'm going to go look around. You want to ... keep me company?' (Leave)
>Write-In

>>2821231
>>Write-In
Find Houshou

>>2821231
>>'I'm going to go look around. You want to ... keep me company?' (Leave)
we should talk to the others in the Division as well
we've only talked to a quarter of them

>>2821231
>'I'm going to go look around. You want to ... keep me company?' (Leave)

>>2821231
>>'You know, moving back to the last few days, I'm a little surprised how well you and Kasumi get along.'

>>2821231
>I'm going to go look around. You want to ... keep me company?' (Leave)

‘I’m going to go and have a look around,’ you start, stretching your arms overhead. ‘Care to keep me company?’

Nagato looks mockingly thoughtful in response, drawing out a hum as she gives your consideration as much weight as a feather on a stack of coal. She turn turns to you, wearing a small smile of apology … and denial.

It was worth a shot.

‘As tempting as that sounds,’ she returns, her voice taking a melodic quality, ‘I think I’d like to stick around and watch for the time being. Unless you make it an order, of course.’

‘Well, all right,’ you reply, covering your ears as a particularly strong breeze hits … and the clanging of Kantai Steel weaponry rings in your ears. ‘If you’re sure, then.’

You wave her off, departing from Nagato’s side … and almost immediately come to a halt as two KanMusu—one who you recognize to be Kawakaze—zoom past you, the red-headed KanMusu yelling out curse word after curse word as you make out what appeared to be a—no, quite a few, in fact—kunai sticking out of her bottom … and actually fall over as two men who you can only conclude to be the on-site crew chase after them, calling for them to come to a halt above the din of Kawakaze’s curses and the other, light-haired KanMusu’s, cackling. It looked like something right out of a cartoon, with Kawakaze swinging what looked like a Inazuma’s flail in the direction of her compatriot as the two crew members yelled for them to stop.

If anyone gave notice, they didn’t show it, save for a few cursory glances and the disapproving shake of the head.

You get back to your feet, dusting yourself off …

>Approach Tenryuu's group
>Approach Ikazuchi/Inazuma’s group
>Approach Yamato’s group
>Approach Sendai’s group
>Approach Murakumo’s group
>Leave
>Talk to another KanMusu (Specify)
>Write-In

>>2821625
>>Talk to another KanMusu (Specify)
Shigure

>>2821625
>>Talk to another KanMusu (Specify)
Houshou

Lets get it started~

>>2821625
>Talk to another KanMusu (Specify)
Shigure

>>2821625
>>Talk to another KanMusu (Specify)
Houshou

>>2821629
>>2821648

>>2821630
>>2821651

Flipping a coin. Coin flipped ... and it doesn't matter because event triggered.

>>2821663
>event triggered
hold onto your butts lads

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You rub the back of your neck as you wander around, thinking about what to do next. You’d elected to spend more time around here (as opposed to wandering around the rest of town), so you really wanted to make the most of it, but … considering just how you’d beaten two KanMusu at their own specialties, nothing really seemed to appeal to you. Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves; chatting with their friends or swinging their weapons … or skimming over the surface of the sea, like Ikazuchi was doing with her students right now. A look to your left and right showcases a collection of scenes: Shigure crouching and poking at a pile of weapons as though it was a sleeping animal; Musashi with her back to you and flanked by who you can only guess to be Fusou as they watch Yamato continue her instruction … and Houshou, who was happily chatting and flanked by several others as they surrounded—

‘Admiral!’

You frown.

That sounded like—

You turn on your heel as a scraping, falling sound hits your ears … and see a yukata-clad Prinz Eugen grumble as she gets to her feet, mumbling under her breath with the struggle to find her bearings. You blink in surprise, wondering just what she was doing here. Prinz Eugen looked uncomfortable in the restricted state of dress (a part of you wonders how she would feel being in a kimono), motioning as though she was walking on a tight rope despite being on solid cement.

‘Prinz, honestly … that’s brand new.’

‘Eh, sorry …’

The voice has you raising your head … and has you aware of the presence of one stern-looking grandmother of a First Admiral, hoisting an umbrella with a furry shawl of gray, her attention fully-focused on the KanMusu that was giving her best impression of a poor balancing act. Prinz doesn’t look the least bit happy … but you supposed it’s because the yukata seemed rather wound around her petite—and proportioned—form.

‘Ah, Commander,’ the old woman greets, smiling kindly and giving a slight bow, ‘a pleasure to see you again.’

‘Uh, likewise … ma’am,’ you return, internally cheering as—for once—you find your own social bearings on point. ‘Not that I … expected to see you around here. Formal business?’

Houshou flanks her, as she did before, before turning red and looking away, for some reason or other. Other KanMusu gather behind them, acting as a sort of posse of faux-grandchildren … if you could give it a description at all. She looked more like the general at the head of an army, herself.

‘No, no,’ she replies, ‘I came over to just pay Murakumo and Houshou a visit; I didn’t think that Murakumo was calling me over to show off her new training module; I did not believe she’d have such a following. When I was active, the girls were rather averse to the thought of swinging anything but turrets and fists.’

‘Well,’ you chuckle, ‘Murakumo’s … good at putting a case forward.’

She smiles fondly. ‘And I suppose that your silver tongue had nothing to do with it?’

You smile wryly, scratching the back of your head. So much for trying to play the mysterious benefactor. Even Houshou raises a fist, looking away as she attempts to hide her amusement, to no avail. The giggles are much too loud to be muffled, even from this distance. The First Admiral’s eyes twinkle as her smile makes it home, playing and winding like an all-knowing sage: serene, tempered … and with a dozen more notches than you would ever acquire in a lifetime. The shuffle of feet has you stepping half a foot to the right as Prinz, ever the graceful creature, waddles and transforms the First Admiral’s smile into a sarcastic glance to the sky.

‘I have no comment to that inquiry, ma’am.’

She hums, nodding.

‘Bismarck?’

You turn to your right as something—a shoulder—lightly scrapes your arm. Bismarck, the Battleship-Class KanMusu, follows after the stumbling Prinz, holding what appeared to be a paper bag in her hands. Her expression is as sharp as Tenryuu’s on a bad day, and the First Admiral holds out her outstretched palm to which the bag is dropped and pulled in for inspection. The kimono that she wears is different; black and red and a mix of loose and tight in certain places, formal and prim and not at all appropriate for field duty. Hair up in a bun with an ornate pair of chopsticks keeping it in place, Bismarck looked like an exotic model plying her trade rather than a machine built for war. A slender neck and loose strands are the only skin she shows; she is regal in her mannerisms, playing the part of a noblewoman without even trying.

‘I couldn’t find the red box, Admiral. It wasn’t in the car.’

‘I suspected I’d left it on my dresser,’ she sighs. ‘How careless of me …’

Bismarck tucks a strand of hair behind her ear, a slight upturn in the corners of her mouth visible … right as she turns to face you.

‘Commander,’ she starts, giving a bow identical to the First Admiral’s, ‘a pleasure to see you again.’

‘Bismarck,’ you return with a nod, trying to be as formal as you’re able. By your own judgment, however, it sounds like an accented pug trying to hum a tune more than it does an acknowledgment of her presence. If she minds, she doesn’t show it, slightly nodding her head. ‘Nice to … see you again.’

She has the smile down pat, if nothing else.

You don’t miss Houshou’s flat stare and raised eyebrow.

You can’t, really.

>Write-In

>>2821928
>>Write-In
"I met the First Admiral, Prinz and Bismarck when I sent Yuu home after my first visit to the admiralty. Helped prepare dinner for them as well that night.

And I must say, Bismarck, you look wonderful in that kimono. Oh and you as well, Prinz. But it looks like you'll need abit more practice with the geta."

>>2821945
supportin

>>2821945
Same

>>2821945
I'll support.

>>2821945
Supporting

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‘It’s been a while,’ you start, although, to tell the truth, it really hadn’t been. You barely knew them for the statement to qualify as such. ‘How’s Yuu? She doing all right?’

‘She’s doing fine,’ the First Admiral replies, bobbing her head slightly as she held the paper bag close to her hands. ‘Thank you again for going out of your way to bring her home. That girl may not be good at expressing it, but she works better in a casual environment than that mess of bureaucracy.’

‘Don’t we all?’

Prinz giggles behind a closed fist … and even Bismarck can’t help smirk slightly at the comment.

‘That’s a wonderful set the both of you have on.’ Your remark is laced with as much honesty—frankness—that you can muster; the last thing you wanted right now was to communicate your tendency for the wandering eye and … make a raw repeat of a certain incident a reality. As much as you trusted Houshou, you didn’t … fully invest yourself in the certainty that she wouldn’t flip out; keeping things as informal and innocently casual as possible was a priority. ‘I think you could use a little bit more practice with those sandals, though.’

Prinz sighs, her shoulders slumping with the release of breath … prompting a disapproving—and altogether maternal—glare from the First Admiral, who doesn’t otherwise say a word. Bismarck gives her quiet thanks, giving a formal bow that wouldn’t look out of place on the only Light Carrier present.

Houshou’s expression only tightens.

‘That’s why I said: pants and a blouse would be enough!’ Prinz cries out, pouting as she wiggled her bottom for emphasis. ‘I’m not this size at all! It makes me look bigger than I really am!’

You chuckle in amusement, your good eye closing as you step back and take in Prinz’s act.

‘It’s not a bad look on you, really,’ you emphasize, placing your hands on your hips as the pig-tails of the shorter KanMusu bounce up and down with her motions … and drawing amused giggles from the KanMusu that made up the slowly-growing peanut gallery, who were now whispering words regarding the presence of the First Admiral.

You’re not able to catch all of it, but the general atmosphere had turned into one of warm admiration; one that you could even point out was bordering on awe. It doesn’t surprise you one bit, though … considering just who she was. Whispers and curious eyes make up the audience, formed from the previous posse, although none of them—probably out of respect—directly engaged her. Probably because they still adhered to the discipline of not interrupting two superiors having a chat of their own.

A small glint from the corner of her eye, however, followed by the light cry of a closing umbrella, communicates her insistence of movement, even without words.

‘Well, I have some business to attend to,’ she declares, loud enough that the gathering crowd begins to disperse, ‘I’m sure you don’t mind if I borrow your Houshou for the time being?’

Your cheeks turn red.

That was a first.

Your Houshou.’

‘A-Admiral!’ Houshou cries out, holding her cheeks and glaring hotly at the smirking old woman. She’s not intimidated in the least, though, chortling behind a closed mouth and a serene expression.

‘And I’m sure that Bismarck and Prinz wouldn’t be so averse to a personal tour of the festivities by an active Officer.’

Uh-oh.

>‘I would … be honored.’ (Agree to the tour)
>‘I … have other commitments, but I’m sure I can find someone else to do it.’ (Avoid Houshou-related vectors of agony)
>Write-In

>>2824063
>‘I would … be honored.’ (Agree to the tour)

>>2824063
>>‘I would … be honored.’ (Agree to the tour)
lets see where this goes

>>2824063
>>‘I would … be honored.’ (Agree to the tour)

>>2824063
>‘I would … be honored.’ (Agree to the tour)
>Take it easy on my light carrier admiral i depend on her alot.

>>2824088
emphasis on MY

>>2824063
>‘I would … be honored.’ (Agree to the tour)
We can tease houshou later

>>2824063
>>‘I would … be honored.’ (Agree to the tour)

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‘I’d … be honored.’

Your words are a mite more formal than your intentions, but you try to keep things as level as possible. Which, of course, meant that you had to try your best to not sound like someone who had been handed the unwitting company of a pair of rather pretty young women (Which a small part of you was … and kept small by the Commander—Vice-Admiral—part). The responses are passive on the whole, in any case: Houshou gives a brief nod of acknowledgment towards the decision undertaken, the First Admiral gives a small bow as her thanks, Prinz just tilts her head … and Bismarck’s expression is as stoic as Nagato’s upon hearing an assignment declaration. The crowd disperses just as quickly as the First Admiral leaves, chatting to Houshou about one thing or another, but not before Houshou throws a small, curious look in your direction. You would have to answer that soon. No doubt about it.

‘Commander?’

You’re shaken from your over-thinking by Bismarck. She stands beside you with a puzzled, yet expectant-looking Prinz, waiting for you to follow through on your word. The most cheerful smile you can think up blooms across your lips as you clap your hands together, trying to ease your new, albeit temporary, charges into your … pace, for lack of better word.

You tell yourself it’s not so hard. It wasn’t as if you hadn’t done this before.

Thing is, you didn’t really know where to go, either.

‘So.’

Bismarck.

‘So …’

Prinz.

It was Iowa’s day out all over again. This time without Tenryuu to act as mediator … and thankfully, no grabby women attempting to feel them up.

‘This your first time in Yokosuka?’ you inquire, taking a step to your right and gesturing them to follow. An idle walk would do for now; easing them into whatever it was that fate would lend your hand. A wrench seemed quaint.

‘Yes, actually,’ Bismarck answers, following beside you as Prinz takes the front like a clumsy, over-excited puppy, nodding to supplement the Battleship’s answer. ‘We came by land route through Haszad and its states, so this is really only one of the few times we’ve been near water at all. I haven’t been near a base for weeks, really.’

‘Oh? Where were you stationed then?’

She pauses.

‘I’m … not really sure; the designation for the base registry was 004, but as far as I know, the numbers only got up to 003. It was only temporary, though … a few tests, some calibrations and number crunching and we were out. I think it might have been one of the supplementary facilities, but … it looked like a base, at least.’

‘Supplementary facilities?’

‘Things that don’t offer any combat or KanMusu support. Not directly, anyway.’

‘Ah.’

>>2824660
>'That is weird.' (Pursue the designation mystery)
>'Do you miss your old post?' (Inquire about Romerian Alliance Admiralty)
>'So, what's happened with you since we last spoke?' (Catch up)
>'You look ... healthy.' (Compliment)
>Write-In

>>2824668
>>'That is weird.' (Pursue the designation mystery)
>desire to know more

>>2824660

>'Do you miss your old post?' (Inquire about Romerian Alliance Admiralty)

>>2824668
>'That is weird.' (Pursue the designation mystery)

>>2824668
>>'You look ... healthy.' (Compliment)

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Passing—and vague—as the mention was, you couldn’t help but focus on a that particular section of the dialogue. Bismarck wasn’t wrong: marine base designations by code only did go up to 003 to represent the three bases. As far as you knew, the only three active sites were Ominato, Maizuru and Yokosuka. It wasn’t as if there wasn’t rumors of a fourth base, however … but according to the records and gossip, there’d always been something to quash any attempt of it being rendered active. You remember one particular incident regarding the construction of a fourth base near your old hometown and how it’d just faded away. Sites had been mentioned here and there in the papers or on the radio, but nothing had really come into fruition. In fact, the last mention that you had was more than likely the Admiralty trying to procure that fourth site … and it’d been more than a month since.

Maybe it was nothing.

But they were called maybes for a reason.

‘That is weird,’ you start, hanging onto a hook with a line you weren’t sure of dragging or snapping.

‘What’s weird?’

‘I mean … bases should only go up to three, right? 004 … that’d make for some strange numbering.’

‘Considering the state of the Admiralty, it was probably just a supplementary facility,’ she reasons, to which you find yourself giving a nod of half-agreement. Maybe that was it. ‘With the League of Nations unable to convene, approval wouldn’t come easy at all for another standing operational branch. It’s not as if the Admiralty has the numbers to make up that particular facility, though. Romeria’s involvement’s been cut and I heard Vanzer fully opted out of the program … so it wouldn’t make any logistical or practical sense for there to be a fourth base.’

‘I guess,’ you sound, nodding in acknowledgment. ‘Could it have been an … ISSF facility?’

She cocks an eyebrow.

‘The ISSF only own one shipyard in the North-Eastern tip … and it definitely didn’t have anything I saw there.’

‘What did you see?’

Bismarck pauses, bringing a hand to her chin, before replying, ‘Not … much, surprisingly. I was in the middle of a reboot for most of it.’

‘Reboot?’

‘The more technical term would be a transitive state, specific to ensure the harmonization of the faculties of a KanMusu’s core and physical connection. By human equivalents, I suppose you could compare it to a lucid dream … only involving the temporary separation of a tether and core from a KanMusu soul. When I wasn’t in that state, they ran tests in controlled environments. Like rooms full of water or tunnels …’

‘Sounds fancy. Maybe it’s a … test site?’

That seemed logical enough.

‘Maybe,’ she returns, nodding. ‘There’s nothing that says it couldn’t be, I suppose.’

You decide not to pursue it further. For now, at least.

>>2824874
>'Did the First Admiral tell you anything about it?' (Or do you?)
>'So do you miss Romeria?'
>'What's happened since we last spoke?'
>'You look great.' (Compliment)
>Call out to Prinz Eugen
>Write-In

>>2824878
>>'So do you miss Romeria?'

>>2824878
>>'What's happened since we last spoke?'

>>2824878
>>'You look great.' (Compliment)

>>2824878
>'What's happened since we last spoke?'

>>2824878
>'What's happened since we last spoke?'

Session in approximately 2 hours.

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The deepening silence between you is more deafening than anything the masses—and the energetic Heavy Cruiser—can throw to break. Completely unlike her self serving as a fellow host from within the confines of her—or at least what you believe to be—home, Bismarck, now out of it, was rather … no, stoic wasn’t the word that you wanted—could—use here. Prinz’s bounciness seems without limit (although thankfully restrained) but in contrast to her companion, there is a … prim, proper and altogether … together persona that the Battleship had taken on. It isn’t what you’d prop up against a disciplinary checklist for comparison, but Bismarck’s demeanor seems more in-place at the head of a tea-house or—and you weren’t insinuating anything by this—a noble matriarch. If you didn’t know any better, you would’ve pegged her to be a foreign relation of a noble, maybe even a bride.

Not that you were—

‘Commander, is there something the matter?’

‘Huh? Uh, no, just …’ you trail off for a bit, scratching the back of your head as you try to make sure your feet keep their balance from the sudden shake from your train of thought, ‘I was just, um … well, just thinking.’

‘Oh? Of what, if I may ask?’

Prim. Definitely prim.

‘It’s been a while since I dropped in … I was just wondering if there was anything new with you.’

She giggles behind her wrist, eyes dancing in amusement.

‘Wouldn’t you like to know?’

>Apologize and backtrack
>Flirtatious, playful reply
>Try to bridge the conversation proper
>Be dismissive about it
>Write-In

>>2828660
>>Flirtatious, playful reply

>>2828660
>Flirtatious, playful reply

>>2828660
>Be dismissive about it

>>2828660
>>Try to bridge the conversation proper

>>2828660
>>Flirtatious, playful reply

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‘Unraveling the mystery of a beautiful woman’s one of the things a gentleman must learn to do,’ you reply, winking playfully. ‘Especially when they’re good company and excellent conversationalists.’

Bismarck laughs airily, placing a hand on her chest. ‘Be still my heart,’ she returns jokingly, eyes twinkling in mischief. ‘I did not think such a fine master would live in this day and age.’

‘My dear, with you around, I believe a second wind would blow among our numbers.’

She laughs again. Bismarck’s cheeks turn slightly pink at your light words … but the warm expression that washes all over her hint of a more open reception to your volley of words than she had been before. It wasn’t a hard task to key in the why to Bismarck’s reluctance; after all, if a random person you’d met—on goodwill or no—with no personal relation had decided to pry that little bit more, you’d probably shell up a little yourself. As impersonal as it sounded, if you wanted to open her up, you had to make her comfortable enough to step out of that … and thankfully, in this instance, you didn’t find yourself against much resistance.

Although, you did feel that you were being … tested yourself.

‘A little bit too heavy-handed on that delivery, Commander,’ Bismarck comments, a mischievous smile on her lips as she comes to a halt. ‘I suppose it’s acceptable, however, considering the circumstances.’

‘You know, a little bit more and you can probably pass off as the First Admiral’s clone,’ you smirk right back, ‘not that that level of distance and authority is something I find unappealing … in sparing doses, of course.’

Her eyelids droop before letting out a small sigh. To your right, you see Prinz engrossed in Yamato’s demonstration of combat (or dancing, because that’s what it looked like more than the former); it wouldn’t do any good losing a wartime asset because you found yourself distracted by the elegant blonde next to you. Especially not just five minutes into the stroll and on operational grounds.

‘Charmer,’ Bismarck throws back, her eyes narrowing into slits as her smile curves ever so slightly. ‘I didn’t think that they bred your kind.’

‘Still learning,’ you concede, shrugging. ‘Wouldn’t mind further instruction.’

For that, you get a light tap on the forehead.

‘Don’t break rank, sir.’

Her tone betrays her sentence. Her expression practically sells it out.

‘So what has been going on with you since we last met?’ You inquire again, taking a casual tone. ‘Just … hanging around in the compound?’

Her shoulders droop. Another sigh escapes her.

‘That’s about the size of it,’ she returns curtly. ‘I have a lot of free time on my hands what with my … condition. Been going crazy trying to find something that actually interests me.’

‘Ah,’ you let out knowingly. ‘You’re hobby-hunting.’

Her whimper tells you as much.

>>2828856
>'You know, if you want to go back on active duty so badly, maybe you could open a channel for reassignment.' (Encourage her to go back on the frontlines)
>'I can relate, really. It's good to keep busy when you're cooped up like that.' (Empathize)
>'I thought you were already into cooking?' (Confused)
>'I understand your frustration, but, well, if nothing else, you can take it as a formal request.' (Professional)
>Write-In

>>2828856
>>'I can relate, really. It's good to keep busy when you're cooped up like that.' (Empathize)

>>2828869
>>'I can relate, really. It's good to keep busy when you're cooped up like that.' (Empathize)
>>Write-In
Hows your cooking been?

>>2828869
>>'I can relate, really. It's good to keep busy when you're cooped up like that.' (Empathize)
>have you been practicing your cooking?

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‘I can relate,’ you declare softly, trying to ease her further. ‘Good to keep busy when you cooped up like that. Anything you’ve gravitated towards in particular?’

‘Painting,’ she reveals, albeit with a disgusted face, ‘if only because they’re the only things around the house that I can touch without breaking proper.’

‘Painting? What do you paint?’

‘Flowers … and scenery,’ Bismarck explains further. ‘I can’t say I’m horrible at it, but it’s not something that I … well, it’s not something I’m organically interested in. I’m still not used to all this and it’s the only thing that I can lean towards without going insane whenever Prinz isn’t around or when I’m not accompany. It’s ludicrous.’

You feel your eyebrows crease at her explanation; partly because it didn’t make sense to you that she’d lean towards something that she didn’t find fun … and partly because you suspected that she’d misinterpreted the purpose of a hobby as an outlet rather than something to apply by her own leisure. You rub the back of your neck, wearing a small, reassuring smile and gathering yourself … and stop yourself about half an inch from giving her a pat on the shoulder which would have overstepped your current bounds of familiarity. This wasn’t a state you wanted to blunder into with two left feet and a shoulder charge. Not with the both of you barely acquaintances as is.

What little goodwill you had, you wanted to keep … and allow to grow.

In short, you didn’t want to come off like a bloody creep.

‘You know, that’s not what hobbies are supposed to—’

You shake your head. Even the fifteen year-old you knew how immersive some of them were.

‘I get it,’ you state, gathering yourself. ‘You’re not trying to get into something to ease yourself. You’re trying to get back those levels of meticulous obsession and detail that were practically hallmarks of your previous post and the only thing that you have is too arbitrary to actually give the same level of impact that going out there toeing the line of life and death and gunsmoke. Sound about right?’

She stares at you, wide-eyed.

‘You don’t have to answer that.’

The blonde woman sighs again, biting her lip.

‘I get it,’ you repeat, turning your gaze to Prinz … who was now far ahead and chatting to an obscured KanMusu sitting on a barrel. ‘I know what you’re trying to do. Not easy trying to shift gears up or down when you’re so used to it being one way, huh?’

Bismarck’s wry smile gives you your answer.

‘Speaking from past experience?’

‘In a sense,’ you reply, shrugging slightly, ‘I mean … it’s not the same as you, but I think everyone’s got a vice of attitude they turn their interests on.’

‘And you did?’

You want to answer KanMusu, but …

>>2828981
>‘Well, other than KanMusu, I was pretty into picking apart movie cliches and story structure. Unhealthily so.’
>‘Monster movies.’
>‘You’ve seen me work through my obsession. I loved cooking.’
>‘I think if we’re gonna talk obsession … you girls turned into a black hole for me growing up. Probably not what you’re looking for.’
>‘Let’s just say I know the feel of … adjusting a mentality of pace and leave it at that.’
>Write-In

>>2828984
>‘You’ve seen me work through my obsession. I loved cooking.’

>>2828984
>‘You’ve seen me work through my obsession. I loved cooking.’

>>2828981
>>‘You’ve seen me work through my obsession. I loved cooking.’

>>2828984
>>‘You’ve seen me work through my obsession. I loved cooking.’

>>2828984
>>‘Well, other than KanMusu, I was pretty into picking apart movie cliches and story structure. Unhealthily so.’

‘Well, I love cooking … and you’ve seen me work. I don’t think that that’d be anything you’d find appealing, though.’

‘I guess it wouldn’t be, no,’ she replies with a slight drawl. ‘Despite the parameters, I don’t think cooking is an outlet … or a worthy substitute. I don’t think that there are enough ingredients lying around for me to fuss over to make up for what I’m missing out on.’

You could give a retort to that.

However, you also knew that there was a time to bite things down and just smile back. It was why you were employed as long as you were back during your days as a cook. As bad as the going went, you could look back and say you’d never allowed the situation to deteriorate to the point that you were the one who was being shown the door by the way of attitude and insubordination. Bismarck didn’t need another crow on her shoulder cawing about.

‘You want to fight, but you can’t,’ you state, simply and clearly. ‘Since that’s what you were dragged out of wherever the Shamans pulled from for, I don’t think I need much of a picture to understand not being able to do the one thing you were brought out here for. You’re frustrated; you need an outlet and something to change out for the fighting that you can’t do. That about the size of it?’

‘Crude,’ she answers. It’s apparent that it’s not a denial of your observation, however.

‘You’re not going to find that kind of release through any hobby,’ you continue, not missing a beat, ‘but if you’re trying to keep busy, substituting the aspects of what you want with what you can do could work? You’re forged in battle and all that medieval jazz, maybe … taking out bits and pieces and applying them to other interests would be how to go—’

‘You’re just rambling now.’

You wince slightly.

‘I am, but,’ you pause for a moment, ‘I think that’s as far as I can get you. I can’t throw out anything that’ll stick a hundred percent because, well … I don’t know you well enough for that.’

She kicks a small pebble, laughing airily. ‘I’m glad for your honesty.’

‘Doesn’t make your problem unrelateable, though … just odd by human standards.’

‘It probably is,’ Bismarck agrees, nodding. ‘However, considering your job description, I guess I can hold you to a higher standard compared to the rest of your number.’

You snort in response.

‘Well, I like to cook,’ you start, ‘but if I have to be honest there, I don’t think it meshes well with what you’re looking for. It didn’t mesh when passion became a chore and I doubt it’ll be the same for you. I wouldn’t apply it in this case … and you’ve told you’re less than enthusiastic of any outcome that involves trying the kitchen out.’

‘It’s almost as if I’m as complex and organism as you are, isn’t it?’

>>2829133
>'You're getting there.' (Jest)
>'I wonder.' (Deny)
>'You've got more complex systems as is.' (Agree)
>'That's not my place to put my two cents in.' (Avert)
>Write-In

>>2829134
>>Write-In
"Never thought anyway else, to be quite honest."

>>2829137
i'll support this

>>2829137
this

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Session in 2 hours if people are awake for it

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A slight nudge of deja vu comes over you with those words. You can’t help but give a small, brief, snort of laughter as the consistent question returns to the fore of your thoughts. It’d been something that you’d been pondering on and off … but for Bismarck to actually voice it of her own volition, well … there was a sort of irony lined in her reply that you couldn’t help but actually agree by.

‘Never thought about you any way else, really.’

She lets out a light hum, before replying, ‘I suppose you of all people wouldn’t. It’s my mistake not remembering just where you stood on the matter.’

You let out another snort. ‘You know, considering just how analytical your approach was the last time we talked, I wouldn’t have thought that you of all people would’ve had trouble managing your own … nuances. If it was happening to anyone else, I’d chalk them up to hypocrisy or just being self-centered.’

‘And the reason that standard fails to apply to me would be …’

‘Well,’ you start, catching her right as she trails off, ‘I can’t hold the standards of those inherent to an attribute against those who were adopted them. It’d be like holding the high school diamond rules up to the pros: I ain’t that unfair, you know? I’ve had twenty years and change to sort myself out. You’ve had guns whistling and smoke up your nostrils to go with rough waves and angry seas in the last ten years.’

Despite the subject matter … Bismarck giggles, raising her cuff to her mouth.

‘An even assessment,’ she teases. ‘You do realize that kind of judgment would never pass you for sane anywhere else?’

>‘Have you seen how the human race is?’ (Dry)
>‘To be fair, I signed on because of a poster with the Kongou Sisters on them. A paragon I am not.’ (Agree)
>‘Maybe.’ (Curt)
>‘Is it really that hard to value yourself that little bit more than your label?’ (Confront)
>Write-In

>>2830609
>>‘Is it really that hard to value yourself that little bit more than your label?’ (Confront)

>>2830609
>‘Is it really that hard to value yourself that little bit more than your label?’ (Confront)

>>2830609
>‘To be fair, I signed on because of a poster with the Kongou Sisters on them. A paragon I am not.’ (Agree)

>>2830609
>)
>>‘To be fair, I signed on because of a poster with the Kongou Sisters on them. A paragon I am not.’ (Agree)

>>2830609
>>‘To be fair, I signed on because of a poster with the Kongou Sisters on them. A paragon I am not.’ (Agree)

>>2830609
>>‘To be fair, I signed on because of a poster with the Kongou Sisters on them. A paragon I am not.’ (Agree)

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You can’t help but grimace at that.

‘To be fair, I signed on because of a Kongou Sisters poster. A paragon I am most definitely not.’

Bismarck snorts at your answer, returning, ‘No, that is most definitely not an attribute I would connect with a paragon of humanity, even with the role association.’

‘You’re saying that I’m not fit for my station.’

‘I would never insinuate as much,’ Bismarck replies, not so much backtracking on her statements as she is clarifying her stance, ‘but I think that you’ve heard enough to the point that my round of repetition wouldn’t be anything but a sickening reprise, no?’

You blink. It was roundabout; strange, in a way … to have Bismarck actually take your feelings into account rather than spout something that belonged on a letter of review more than it did at the tip of her tongue.

‘That’s … awfully considerate of you.’

She smiles coquettishly.

‘I’m capable of that much, at the very least.’

The three of you walk around a little bit more, aimlessly and casually. Prinz lines up beside the both of you soon enough, taking Bismarck’s full attention with casual chatter. They open a small gap between you and the both of them, heading about a stride and some ahead as they engaged with one another. It’s nothing that you really delve into that much … or catch, really, putting your hands in your pockets and walking against the ocean breeze. Prinz talks about Romeria, but the context is a little too hard for you to understand in their in bits and pieces; something about temperature and humidity, preparation designations and the like. Bismarck, to your surprise, is all too keen on playing back and forth alongside her fellow Romerian; after being so smooth with you, you would have thought that the attitude would have carried over in her interactions with Prinz … but with all comparisons down, what she looked like was an older sister content with listening to what her younger sibling had to say about her day. Smiles and smirks and tired sighs, the both of them looked like a pair of sisters strolling about on a festive evening.

‘No HEAVY Deployment Stacks, huh? I wonder if it’s because of the budget …’

‘The bases here are probably built more on a frontline requirement than they are actual fortress specifications. Since they’re take the brunt, it would make sense for it to be more lean, no?’

‘That doesn’t make sense.’

Except, of course, for the fact that their subject matter was a bit of a giveaway.

It’s enough to make you feel like a bit of a third wheel.

‘Compared to Atlantik it’s a little rustic, no?’

>Cut In
>Listen in closer
>Ignore
>Write-In

>>2830751
>Listen in closer

>>2830751
>>Listen in closer

>>2830751
>>Cut In
i am intrigued

>>2830751
>>Listen in closer

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You had to admit that it was a little rude to eavesdrop when you could just ask … but it felt more sensible to catch more bits and pieces and make up a proper picture rather than jumping it without so much as a clue as to what they were talking about. You close your distance with the duo, right until you’re right to their backs but without your boots scraping against the fabric of their dresses. Neither of them seem to acknowledge the narrowed gap, either too engrossed in their conversation or uncaring of whether you were listening in or not … which, frankly, suited you just fine.

Still, you try not to make it look too obvious.

‘Compared to Romerian installations, definitely,’ Bismarck answers, her tone neutral. ‘The manned defense systems are practically non-existent … but I wonder if that’s because they have the numbers to make up the losses. Warspite and Graf pretty much said the supplements and extra defenses were because of a lack of KanMusu numbers, after all.’

‘Maybe,’ Prinz answers, tossing one pigtail up, ‘I think it’s kinda strange, though … over here it’s like they’re leaving everything to us and the Shamans to sort out. I mean, I know that the military can’t do much, but it’s still … uh, kinda jarring, yeah?’

‘There are patrol units run by the standard military corps,’ Bismarck counters, taking the words right off the tip of your tongue. ‘At best, they act as an early warning unit, but being a buffer unit is out of the question. Relegating them to relief and peacekeeping operations is the most that they can do, I suppose. Humans can’t kill Abyssals after all.’

Prinz sighs.

You don’t know why, but you find it quite … insulting, in a way.

‘If the others were here, we could probably get more done, but … is it really okay? We could be—’

‘We have our orders,’ Bismarck cuts her right off, turning her head slightly towards Prinz. ‘As hard as it is … for now, all that we can do is abide by them.’

‘I know, I know,’ Prinz groans, stretching her arms overhead, ‘I just thought that … no, I didn’t think that of all the things that could’ve happened, I … I can’t say that I don’t miss the battlefield, but … school, it’s really a—’

‘Prinz!’

‘Ah, sorry, sorry,’ she scurries for words, holding up her hands as if to hold off an attack from her taller friend, ‘I keep forgetting that …’

Bismarck finally leans her head back, meeting your gaze with accusatory eyes.

‘I guess it’s fine,’ she mumbles. ‘There’s only the Commander here to pick up the noise anyway.’

You frown; she was right. You’d come far enough that you were closer to the closed hangar and the dock than the busy middle of the grounds. There were a few souls here and there, but none of them seemed to be paying attention to you … or were too far to even bother.

‘Isn’t that right, Commander Eavesdropper?’

>>2830941
>'I ain't dropping no eaves, Miss.'
>'Well, since you're in the mood to talk ...' (Inquire)
>'Sorry, were you saying something?' (Ignorant)
>'Talk about whatever you want. It's none of my business.' (Dismissive)
>'Watch it.' (Annoyed)
>Write-In

>>2830941
>>'I ain't dropping no eaves, Miss.'

>>2830941
>Eavesdropping requires that you not actually be part of the group conversing. I am your escort and listening to better understand the conversation seemed smarter than cutting in and putting my foot in my mouth.

>>2830947
>>'Well, since you're in the mood to talk ...' (Inquire)
>Sorry, just dont hear much about the other countries nowadays, specially how they handled the war on their side

>>2830947
>>Write-In
"Hadn't a clue what you two were talking about and it would have been rude to just cut-in. Better to just listen and try to pick up what I could first than to open my mouth and expose myself as a fool."

>>2830966
>expose myself as a fool.
kinda hard to expose yourself if its a already well known fact

Rolled 1 (1d4)

>>2830954
>>2830961
>>2830962
>>2830966

File: Bismarck.jpg (136 KB, 501x702)

136 KB JPG

‘I ain’t droppin’ no eaves, Miss,’ you blubber, ‘except for the part you talked about our defenses; that you had a few words of choice for our defensive efforts; that Romeria was doing better … and something about a war pike and a graph …’

‘Warspite and Graph,’ Bismarck corrects, glaring at you impatiently and bringing a hand to her head. ‘I swear, thousands of miles away and people still can’t get the pronunciation right on the first go.’

Prinz gives you a small, yet supportive, smile. ‘Ah, that’d be something to complain to the ones who named them, Bismarck. You can’t expect everyone to get it right on the first go, no?’

‘I guess not,’ she relents, crossing her arms … and turning her attentions back to you, ‘but it’s not as if we have cruel words for your manner of operation … it’s just that back in Romeria, the military and The Admiralty run joint operations rather than work on a separate basis. That your military and the Admiralty butt heads so much is a little bit … jarring, I suppose, compared to what we’re used to. Not that we don’t understand the proverbial root, of course: just thought that you’d actually be able to operate around them.’

‘Currently, it’s more of a question of sovereignty … but if you’re talking about roots, most of Taiyouga’s military made up the bulwark to keep back the Abyssals during the first five years.’ You grunt as you throw your head back, trying to remember the proper particulars; there’d been so much junk on the news back then that you wondered just what was true and what was just sensationalized opportunism. ‘Taiyouga and Vanzer. Vanzer had to hold out a lot longer, but until they were able to actually get anything up, the Taiyouga military arms were pushing back first. Right now, the military’s going through something of a refractory period. That and the Table putting a deal with the League of Nations on the operations scopes has the Navy, Army and Air Force, like you said, relegated. I’ve spoken with a few of them myself … and while they’re itching for a fight themselves, they’re more content keeping themselves … available. Doing what they can do and all that.’

Bismarck snorts. Whether in dismissal or understanding, you don’t get.

‘A more practical stance than a political one,’ she observes, closing her eyes as she seems to further evaluate your words. ‘That probably puts your administration at a more tolerable state than Romeria’s.’

‘Bismarck!’ Prinz yells, sounding appalled.

‘What? It’s true,’ Bismarck returns innocently. ‘Have you ever seen a minister’s congregation that didn’t end up with them trying to maneuver an advantage?’

Prinz sighs.

‘Even if it is true, you don’t have to say it like that,’ she whines. ‘They’re still our superiors, you know!’

>>2831083
>Drop the conversation
>‘Actually, we’re not so neat here, either.’ (Empathize)
>‘One of the benefits having the Congregation of Lords as the end-say.’ (Concur)
>‘Romerian history’s not so clean, huh?’ (Talk about Romeria)
>‘You mentioned your base being different …’ (Talk about Romerian Admiralty Operations)
>Write-In

>>2831083
>‘Actually, we’re not so neat here, either.’ (Empathize)

>>2831083
>>‘Romerian history’s not so clean, huh?’ (Talk about Romeria)

>>2831088
>>‘You mentioned your base being different …’ (Talk about Romerian Admiralty Operations)

>>2831083
>‘Actually, we’re not so neat here, either.’ (Empathize)

>>2831088
>‘Actually, we’re not so neat here, either.’ (Empathize)

It’s easy to criticize.

‘We’re not so neat here either, actually.’

However, you had more than enough of your fair share of brain cells to correlate the similarities of the two occurrences … and that it didn’t take much of a shift in hand and foot to flip it—either one—into a mirror image of the other. The Congregation of Lords weren’t saints … and with the mess that the vassals and representatives got up to, there was no way that you could start playing the pot in this conversation. Not even for kicks.

After all, being at the brunt of it, joking about something as severe as this wasn’t particularly … appealing.

Especially not with that bone to pick with the Court and the government.

‘The Court of Admirals just about decided to hand over the reins to the Congregation of Lords,’ you explain, immediately catching their attention. ‘Sorry to say that it’s not any better … but it’s not any worse either. Politics are still in full effect; you got a bunch of bickering yahoos calling out for a finger in the pie and you got the arguments of autonomy versus streamlined dependency systems and then you got the people who just want everything over and done with with a barrel of salt for the ground.’

A great big sigh escapes you as you cock your head back.

‘Same old, same old, everywhere …’

Prinz giggles.

‘Just like home.’

You cock one eyebrow, amusement scratching in the corners of your lips.

‘I take it that your stance isn’t a particularly welcoming one to the changes in operation scope and accountability, then?’

>‘Oh, no, I can’t say that. I’m a latecomer, so whatever changes that I go through are just punches I have to roll with.’
>‘From a pure observational standpoint … yes. Especially because the jumble’s caused more administrative problems.’
>‘Don’t have a thought about it one way or another.’
>‘Considering you have the same thing to say about Romeria … I’d say I don’t feel too different from either of you.’
>Write-In

>>2833691
>>‘From a pure observational standpoint … yes. Especially because the jumble’s caused more administrative problems.’

>>2833691
>‘From a pure observational standpoint … yes. Especially because the jumble’s caused more administrative problems.’

>>2833691
>>‘From a pure observational standpoint … yes. Especially because the jumble’s caused more administrative problems.’

>>2833691
>>‘Oh, no, I can’t say that. I’m a latecomer, so whatever changes that I go through are just punches I have to roll with.’

>>2833754
test

‘From a purely observational standpoint … yes. Especially because the jumble’s caused more administrative problems than I’m sure anyone would like.’

Prinz smiles nervously, going, ‘Are you sure those are the sorts of things that you can let out so casually, sir?’

You shrug.

‘Well, I’m not going to spit it out in someone’s face,’ you return neutrally, ‘but if I’m being honest, there’s a lot more cons to work around with everything that’s going on between the Court of Admirals and the Congregation of Lords … not to mention everyone sandwiched up and down the bureaucratic stack. It’s not my place to worry, of course; that’s what the higher-ups are around for … and it’s not like the Court of Admiral’s going out of their way to make things hard for everyone or the Congregation of Lords wants to stamp a new precedent of authority. Both of them, though … both of them are more keen on getting things done the best and most effective method they believe available. When you got hundreds of heads butting and jostling, the only thing you’re going to get is a mess that people are going to … well, have to step around. More work for the ones actually doing work, I guess …’

‘A cynical perspective,’ Bismarck replies, albeit with a nod of agreement. ‘It is doing you a little bit dirty trying to confirm your direction when it keeps changing every time someone opens their trap, doesn’t it?’

‘Bismarck!’

You can’t help but laugh at that. Prinz’s red face only furthers your amusement.

>‘It’s nice to know we have some common ground there.’ (Bridge your points)
>‘Ah, I guess.’ (Neutral gear the conversation)
>‘I wouldn’t go that far, but I won’t deny the difficulty curve isn’t very … adaptable.’ (Annoyance)
>‘Right, you didn’t come here to talk politics.’ (Dismissive)
>Grunt and nod
>Write-In

IF THIS FUCKING GOES THROUGH I'LL DOUBLE THE OCTOBER BOUNTY GIVEAWAY

>>2833845
>>‘It’s nice to know we have some common ground there.’ (Bridge your points)

>>2833845

>>‘It’s nice to know we have some common ground there.’ (Bridge your points)

IF THIS FUCKING GOES THROUGH I'LL DOUBLE THE OCTOBER BOUNTY GIVEAWAY

Yay

>>2833845

>>‘It’s nice to know we have some common ground there.’ (Bridge your points)

>>2833845
>>‘It’s nice to know we have some common ground there.’ (Bridge your points)

‘It’s nice to know we have some common ground there,’ you let out, although it sounds more tired than anything resembling a hurrah. Even with some common ground, the depressing truth of administrative and bureaucratic hair-pulling wasn’t something that you could derive joy from; especially with first-hand experience. You wear a slight grimace as your gaze meets that of the blonde Battleship’s, whose bemusement is more apparent than ever. ‘Guess anywhere in the world you drag your ass the one thing you can rely on happening is bad food for a high price and a boss trying to put out a fire in a building while waving the whip.’

Now it’s her turn to laugh.

‘You’re hilarious,’ Bismarck comments, smirking coyly as she places one hand on her hip and glances mischievously at the wholly-unamused Prinz Eugen. ‘You know, you don’t have to stay around here and listen to us, Prinz …’

As you open your mouth to protest that she did, however (After all, the First Admiral had handed the both of them over as your charges), Prinz Eugen takes her frustrations into a more audible—and evasive—measure, cursing in a language that sounded rough and angry as she raised her hands and turned on her heel, marching towards the dock on the side and settling herself beside a large box, still in plain view. Even from this distance, though, you can hear the angry sounds of … whatever language it was that she was speaking. It sure wasn’t anything you’d heard before, that was for sure.

‘Is she okay?’ you inquire, staring worriedly.

‘Prinz … has a thing about the pecking order,’ Bismarck remarks, wearing a slight grimace. ‘She’s good at following orders and working with them … but to that, she’s also what I like to call a chick of a soldier. Bright-eyed, eager … and unfortunately, damned effective at what she does.’

You snort.

‘You sound a little like someone else I know.’

She chortles slightly as the breeze comes in.

‘I’d like for her to be a little bit more independent in that aspect,’ she recants tiredly, ‘but I guess that … even in a new form and new thoughts, some things … well, some things you just can’t shrug off. In one form or another.’

‘Obedience?’

She gives you a flat stare. You wince slightly, realizing that your mouth had shot forward without your proper intention propping it up.

‘Sorry, just …’ you trail off, shaking your head after as you take a step away. ‘First thing that came to mind, sorry.’

Bismarck stays quiet for a moment, taking a stride towards the dock. The wind flutters about the both of you as the silence devours the conversat—

‘What do you think of me?’

You blink.

All right. That had been a premature thought.

>Write-In

>>2833948


Idk what you guys are discussing on discord but I'll drop off something just so the thread doesn't feel abandoned with last post by the OP

>That you're an upstanding and respectable lady with heart in right place and I'm glad to have had opportunity to make your acquaintance.

>>2834001
yea give us a bit, we're trying to make some good shit

>>2834002
good good, keep them coming lads.

>>2834003
it's also mainly Burgers still awake right now
the other more international lads are going about their day probably

>>2834005
and the burgers are horrible at social. Absolutely the worst

>>2834008
indeed
one of the more social SEA monkey's is on and we are using his somewhat questionable advice

>>2833948
>I think you are a down to earth woman who has a strong sense of duty and beautiful to boot

>>2833948
>well despite not knowing you for that long, i can tell you want to be back on the frontlines with your fellow Kanmusu despite your unique quality and i admire that sense of duty in a person.
alright lets hash out revisions here lads
THAT MEANS YOU AS WELL YOU DAMN LURKERS
I AINT MISSING MY BISKO

>>2834012
Ok. Let the hashing begin. I think it needs to be short and sweet. Either >>2834001 or >>2834011 seems best so far.

>>2833948
>>Write-In
that you are someone who i wouldnt mind getting to know more of as a person and that what i do know about you, just makes me want to know more

it also helps that your pretty, smart, dutiful and someone who i wouldnt mind having my back in battle

>>2834031
I think this one is the best.

>>2834031
ALL OF MY YES

just because i like yanderes doesnt make my advice questionable guys

This is a very obsessed player base, this is. Small, but obsessed.

>>2834066
I LOVE ME BISKO
and all my other botes as well

>>2834031
this one is pretty good

File: Bismarck In Another Kimono.jpg (851 KB, 703x1000)

851 KB JPG

‘That you’re someone I wouldn’t mind getting to know a little more.’

The image of your Instructor and the Vice-Admiral holding up high-fives was an image that you felt was well and truly deserved.

‘That’s it?’

You throw back your head, laughing lightly before continuing, ‘It helps that you’re the kind of woman that only leaves men more curious and mystified with every encounter rather than … satisfied.’

Bismarck smirks coyly.

‘Behave, Commander,’ she warns, a teasing melody more than apparent in her features. ‘Don’t think I’m ignorant of the wiles underneath that homely exterior.’

‘I’d never dream of it,’ you let out with as much honesty that you can muster. Not all of it, but a considerable amount. ‘It helps that you’re a good conversationalist … and smart and dutiful, of course, can’t forget that; then there’s the fact that you look like you stepped right out of a seventeen year-old’s first premium erotica modul—’

She slaps your forearm playfully. Due to her nature, however, you’re still able to register some pain … albeit a shiver that you ignore and take as the bad that came along with the good. It was a strange sensation, really. Not unfamiliar, but … strange, yes. Definitely strange. You’d expected Bismarck to carry over the properties of your typical dutiful KanMusu, but the smart and aware—and weirdly honest—state of mind that you’d picked up here and there in your conversation told you that there was …

Miracle of miracles, probably an actual person underneath the guns and the kimonos and disarming smiles.

A better human than you, most certainly.

‘I honestly wouldn’t mind you having my back in battle.’

‘That’s easy to say to a Battleship with an instinctive streak to take bullets for you.’

‘That’s a little mean,’ you let out, smirking. ‘You’re implying I wouldn’t do the same for you?’

‘You don’t have to!’ Bismarck throws back, laughing as you had before. ‘Why would you do something redundant?’

‘Because that’s what having your back means,’ you reply, frowning as you rub your wrist. It was getting cold; evening would be giving way to night soon. ‘Redundant or no, I have to be as willing to do the things you do for me as I do for you. Anything other than that would be selfish and stupid.’

She rolls her eyes. ‘That’s crazy talk.’

‘You’re saying that I wouldn’t?’

‘I believe that I am well-versed enough in human psychology,’ Bismarck continues haughtily, crossing her arms over her chest, ‘to draw a probability matrix that correlates typical and atypical tendencies of behavior. You’re weighing a valuation with a clear optimistic bias. There’s no simulation what would dictate in the event of a command under you would call that a logical bout.’

‘Well … what if I do think you’re worth taking the bullet for?'

‘Then I—’

Bismarck stops.

In the whirl of a word, there is a sort of … hanging state that you are in. The Battleship Bismarck stands, hesitant; scrutinizing herself for a reply that isn’t quite on the tip of her tongue. Her expression is puzzlement. You’re sure of it. Her face is flushed, her eyes shaking and her lips opening and closing with silent words passing in between. You don’t—refuse—to say word, afraid of somehow sending her off scampering with the usual lack of tact, delicacy. Her eyes shine with a different light as she tugs at her kimono, her cheeks puffing as a brief, defeated look washes over her … before being immediately replaced with a stubborn—half-hearted—attempt at recovering superiority.

It fails.

But what a failure it is.

Pink cheeks, her arms hugging herself, an averted gaze and dancing locks of golden hair are what you get.

‘Then I would say … thank you.’

>Write-In
>End

>>2834163
>>Write-In
"your welcome"

also headpat her

>>2834174
that be good

>>2834174
This is fine.

Also tiptop.

>>2834163
>just saying how it is
With a smile.

You pat her head.

You don’t know what comes over you to approach her so casually … but raising your hand and placing it on her head with a gentle rub and tussle is something that you rack your brains to pull all rhyme and reason to address. It’s an unorthodox response to complimentary thanks and both sides of your working brain try to connect every possible logic center to come up with a proper trigger chain, but … well, there probably wasn’t a reason to it at all. You just felt like she needed one … and you now give it to her with a gusto that you—secretly—reserved for a certain blue-haired charge of yours.

She’s appreciative, if a little confused, by the gesture.

There’s no protest, despite her being practically up to your brows in height.

Then again, there were so many big girls around.

‘You’re welcome,’ you let out, trying your best to sound as though it’s the most natural response to praise in the world. She mewls and huffs slightly, but as before, there is no protest. ‘You have really nice hair.’

‘Eh?’

Now that was most definitely a slip.

‘I mean, uh …’ you trail off with the said slip, now slowly turning into a stumble bordering on a landslide. You draw your hand back, coughing into the balled fist as you try not to have your cheeks go too maroon, embarrassing as it is. ‘You have very … nice … hair.’

A small snort reaches your ears. You don’t dare look up, casting your gaze to the ground and try to even the unexpected flurry of unstable atmospheric changes from your rather awkward—and very, very corny and unneeded—wording.

‘How are operations running?’ she asks. You're half-thankful that she's able to read the mood better than yours, regardless of your observations.

>Pessimistic
>Optimistic
>Realistic
>Uncertain
>Write-In

>>2849581
>>Realistic

>>2849581
>Realistic

>>2849581
>Realistic

>>2849581
>>Realistic