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“So, what’s the plan?”


You sit in the council room aboard the Shinto fleet, nervously wringing your hands. You were already tasked with a dangerous mission; infiltrating Sun Si into the den of depravity ruled by Kingpin Dong, but that task has been hit with a massive complication.

“Since Dong has control of the NOAH...” you mutter, still in disbelief at the words coming out of your mouth, “We have a two-part mission.”

“Lady Si’s safety is the top priority,” the serious general Yu Qi remarks, a stern expression on his face. “You cannot expect us to place the safety of an independent diplomat above that of our royal family.”

“You’re that guy who wanted to marry into said family, right?” Crooks smirks. “But old Boros broke your arm because you weren’t man enough.”

Yu Qi glares at Crooks, but Si is quick to order him down. “Yu Qi is a loyal and capable Major, my safety is guaranteed in his hands. While he might prioritise my wellbeing… I have every intention of helping you protect Marco Shao.”

Archie nods at Si and gives a smile. “Thank you.”

Si shrugs, flicking her hair as she tries to keep her cool aloof demeanour. “Oh, it’s not a kindness. Merely common sense. Marco Shao is an important figurehead in-”

“He’s my husband,” Dot interrupts. “You don’t need to pretend this mission isn’t personal. But… Marco is in captivity, and I imagine it’s only a matter of time before Dong decides to execute him entirely to secure his placement.”

You shake your head. “We can’t take back the NOAH. We’re just smugglers. But what we can do is break Marco out of there and make sure he isn’t offed by that crime-lord.”

Si smirks. “At first it would just be myself and Yu Qi on this mission, it seems our party has grown.”

Chen nods along, before lightly banging his fist on the table in revelation. “Ah, so it’s a full infiltration mission. Going undercover and working your way to the prison cells on the NOAH!”

“One problem...” you respond. “I look at our crew, and we aren’t a group who can just sneak aboard unrecognised.”

“Yeah,” Crooks continues. “Dot is the wife of a famous figurehead, Archie is a renowned scientist, Lacey is a freakin’ music celebrity, Matt and I have had bounties on our heads put there by Dong for over half a year now, and Krista even used to work for the guy-”

“But only at a distance!” Krista puffs out her chest. “Dong and I haven’t been in direct contact since I was twelve! There’s no way he could recognise me eight years later, yep-yep!”

“Did you still have those crazy eyes back then?” Crooks asks.

Krista pauses. “Hey, they aren’t crazy! But… yes, actually.”

“Then anyone could recognise you a mile away,” he explains.

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Si chuckles to herself and leans back in her chair. “No matter, your appearances won’t be an issue.”

“And why’s that?” you ask.

Chen looks to you. “Oh, right… you don’t know the power of Si’s Biochip, do you?”


Name: Sun Si
Biochip Class: THE VIPER

Si’s Biochip allows her to change the physical appearance of any person or object she touches. This ability can affect several different objects at once, creating complete illusions to the naked eye.

POWER: E
SPEED: E
DURABILITY: E
PRECISION: E
RANGE: A
POTENTIAL: A

“Now that’s pretty neat,” you remark.

Si nods. “Unfortunately I’ve never managed to get it to work on myself, otherwise we could have used a decoy version of me… but you’ll all be pleased to know these wonderful looks are all natural!”

She smirks, but nobody responds. Her smirk fades as she sighs. “Oh, whatever… I can disguise your faces just enough that you’ll go unrecognised aboard that ship, and from there it’s just a matter of… getting to the prison’s and freeing their main prisoner.”

“Easier said than done...” you sigh. “But if anyone can pull it off… it’s our crew.”

Chen pumps his fist. “Alright! This is actually kind of exciting! I have faith that we’re all going to pull it off! What’s my role?”

“You’re staying here,” Si replies.

Chen raises an eyebrow. “Say what now?”

Si shrugs. “Well, you’re not a major or a general… you’re not a smuggler… you don’t belong on this mission or in a serious battle. Your place is at home, providing moral support.”

“But… I want to help-”

“And I want you to live,” Si replies.

Chen pauses. “That’s probably the nicest thing you’ve said to me.”

Si shakes her head and places a hand on Chen’s shoulder. “We have this under control. No point in placing yourself in danger like a fool… I promise I’ll be safe.”

Chen gives a small smile. “I know you will. I believe in you.”

“Don’t believe in me, believe in the plan,” Si replies.

And with that, you have your task to come. Get in, break Marco out. And probably a few other’s while you’re at it… Connery, Cass, Krista’s mom… and maybe even Kilroy while you’re at it. Though you don’t think you could spend any time with that pompous ass on a ship without wanting to throw him out the airlock.

“Dear...” Dot mutters to herself. “We’re coming to get you. Sit tight.”

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>Later that day
>POV Shift: Sun Chen

You wander aimlessly around the streets for a while after the meeting.

You understand what Si meant… she’s only looking out for your safety. A rarity among the people of Shinto… but you want to be a protector, not the one who requires protection.

She made an awfully good point though… you’re not smart enough to be a smuggler, and you aren’t enough of a fighter to be a Major. But there is one thing she said you disagree with.

You have no place at home.

All your life, you’ve been the outcast. Boros didn’t even know of your existence until the day he discovered you begging on the streets. Those were your earliest memories. Nothing of your mother, though those around you in the slums informed you she had died giving birth to you. Pitying the baby, they kept you alive until you could walk and talk… and at that point you were left fending for yourself.

“Boy, who is your mother?”

The words that changed your life. Boros was surrounded by his men when he saw you, all of five years of age siting under a makeshift tent in the merchant district. You recall not answering, you were a young boy, with no education, you had little words to say, and many you didn’t know to say.

Red hair is hardly a rare trait, particularly among Shinto natives, but Boros would often swear that his particular shade of red was unique to his family… and you shared that with him. On that suspicion, he brought you in and ran DNA tests. No doubt about it… you were his son.

Boros isn’t a cruel man. On the contrary, he cared for you and treated you well from the moment you entered his home. However, he was a man busy with an entire fleet, and with four children before you and seven children after you, there was very little time spent with the two of you.

Those children… your half-siblings had… varying views on you. Mao is the closest thing to a friend you’ve had… while Chou would rather see you dead and gone. Even those who treat you with a decent amount of kindness still kept you at a distance. An outsider, through and through.
Your thoughts turn to those siblings. Perhaps you should visit one…

>Sun Zi
>Sun Chou
>Sun Yin
>Sun Mao
>Sun Si
>Sun Wu

>>3829106
>>Sun Mao
Friend support time~

>>3829106
Let's see Chou.... just kidding
>>Sun Mao
She is the nicest.

Calling for
>Sun Mao

Writing now.

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>Sun Mao

Mao is the half-sibling you're closest to out of the entire bunch, but not only that... she's the full-blood sister of Si. The infiltration with Si is likely weighing heavily on her mind.

You make your way to the palace, walking past Hana Tokagure, the first wife of Boros and mother of Mao and Si, as she performs household chores. "Do you need a hand?" you ask her.

She gives a respectful nod. "Not at all, Chen. We have assistants, after all... I simply like working on the home myself."

"Okay," you reply. "Have you seen Mao?"

Hana points you towards the peach garden. You saunter out into the garden, but no sign of Mao anywhere. "Now, where could she have gotten to-"

"SURPRISE ATTACK!"

Mao leaps from behind a basket and tackles you to the ground, wrenching in a headlock as she traps you on the ground. "You've been easier to catch lately!" she taunts, as you try to escape.

"Hey, cut it out!" you exclaim, as she messes up your hair with her free hand.

Eventually, Mao lets go, as you dust yourself off. "What did you want, Chen?" she asks.

"I just wanted to see how you were doing, considering what's going on with Si..." you remark.

Mao simply lets out a cocky scoff. "With Si? Please, like I care about whatever mess my prissy sister landed herself in..."

Mao chuckles, but in a forced manner. You can tell, she cares greatly about her sister, simply dismissing it and playing it off for her own sake. "If you say so..." you mutter.

"Si will probably luck her way out of it," Mao shrugs. "She was always the lucky one! You know she's never broken a bone before? I've broken five!"

"That might be because she doesn't put herself in position to break a bone..." you point out. "She's not climbing trees and getting into fights."

Mao glares at you, with a sinister grin. "Sounds like you're aiming to be my next fight!"

You shake your head. "N-no, not at all!"

Mao chuckles as she pats you on the back. "Just kidding! Oh, did you hear?"

"Hear what?"

"Yin and Wu got a promotion!" Mao explains. "That new general... Erica, isn't it? She was visiting here a few times with Zi, and she selected them to be her direct majors!"

"That's wonderful!" you smile, before thinking for a moment. "It's long overdue for Yin, but I'm surprised Wu has been granted that honour so soon. She's the youngest adult in the family."

Mao gives a determined nod and clenches her fist as she holds them up. "Yeah! That General completely skipped over me, you and Si! What's wrong with us, huh? Well, I can tell what's wrong with Si..."

>Maybe we just aren't trying hard enough.
>I don't think there's anything wrong with us. Wu has just always been really determined.
>It doesn't bother me. Does it bother you?

>>3829157
>>It doesn't bother me. Does it bother you?

>>3829157
>>I don't think there's anything wrong with us. Wu has just always been really determined.

>>3829157
>I don't think there's anything wrong with us. Wu has just always been really determined.

>Shinto thread
[JACKPOSTING INTENSIFIES]

Calling for
>I don't think there's anything wrong with us. Wu has just always been really determined.

Writing now.

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>I don't think there's anything wrong with us. Wu has just always been really determined.

"Tell me about it," Mao rolls her eyes. "She's crazy for how determined she is. Remember her offering to swap places with Si just for that mission?"

You nod. Wu has earned her title as the workhorse of the family for good reason. You often worry she may be pushing herself too far at times. "I remember well. She deserves the promotion."

"Well, there's a line!" Mao replies. "Sure, I slack off... a lot... but I'm the fourth child of Boros! I should be given that role with Yin. Instead I get passed over for kid number six?"

"Seven," you correct her.

"Oh right, I wasn't counting..." Mao trails off. "Uhh... nevermind."

You know what she means. She wasn't counting you. Mao cares for you like you were a true brother, but even she at times sees you more as an adoptive ward of Boros than a true member of the family.

"Are you two fighting again?" a booming voice calls out into the peach garden. The most familiar and powerful voice in all of Shinto.

"No, father!" Mao calls back. "I mean, we were... but I won very quickly!"

"Is Chen there?"

"Right here!" you pop your head into Boros' line of sight and wave. "What's the matter?"

He beckons you to come with him. "I need you for something. Follow me."

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You bid farewell to Mao as you trail behind the hulking behemoth who brought you into this home. "What do you need from me, Lord Boros?" you ask in a polite tone.

"Call me dad," Boros replies. "How many times do I have to remind you of that? Anyway, the last few weeks I've had Wu trailing me and taking notes while I get by my day to day. But since she's getting inducted as a major as of today, there's an open role. Take this holopad and just jot down everything from the day, alright?"

"Note-taking?" you tilt your head.

"More important than it seems!" Boros chuckles. "You know my memory's never been the best! I'm more focused on the big picture and always forget about the little details... too many times I've been in the doghouse for mixing up which wife has their birthday that day! Har!"

You nod. "So, what are you doing today?"

"Just a status report with all the generals."

Your enthusiastic smile fades as you think of meeting with Chou, or the terrifying pirate Jack Cutlass. "All of the generals...?"

"Of course!" he exclaims. "I know it's tiring work, kid... but hey, I'll let you pick the first general we visit, okay?"

Your mind runs over the current generals of Shinto. There's your two half-brothers... Sun Zi is an honourable and straightforward man, albeit aloof at times. Chou... well, he has always hated you. When you first arrived in the home, Boros would often have to stop him from beating you bloody. Amadeus Yu is Boros' head strategist, a good-humoured man with little regard for social norms, but a true battle genius. Jack Cutlass can be friendly and terrifying in equal measure, the feared and insane killer pirate. And finally Erica... a complete mystery, initially from Camelot. You don't know why she chose to come here, she knows nothing of the culture from what you've seen.

>Sun Zi
>Sun Chou
>Amadeus Yu
>Jack Cutlass
>Erica

>>3829236
>>Jack Cutlass
JACK JACK JACK JACK JACK

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>>3829236
>Jack Cutlass
JJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJJAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK

>>3829236
>>Jack Cutlass
SHOW ME A GOOD TIME, JACK

Calling for
>Jack Cutlass

Writing now.

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>Jack Cutlass

Might as well get the scariest general out of the way first. "Brave of you," Boros jokes. If he's saying that, then you know meeting with Jack Cutlass will be... an experience.

However, when you arrive at his quarters, you and Boros are in for a surprise. "Dammit!" Boros yells. "He's out joyriding on his private ship! Sit tight here, son... I'll get that damn renegade back here. He's the most difficult general we've got..."

"Then why is he still in that position?" you ask.

Boros chuckles. "Are you kidding? I love a guy who will joyride whenever the hell he feels like it! Hold down the fort here, I'll drag him back by his ear..."

As Boros storms off, you find yourself waiting around. You walk around the perimeter of Cutlass' quarter building, bored out of your mind. You set the notepad aside and pull out your personal lighter. You ignite a spark, and begin to play around with the small flames with your Biochip ability. Ultimo Dragon as a power allows you to manipulate flames, but you can't create new ones. Just this small spark floating around through the air... the larger the flames, the more effort it takes to move them. You're yet to find yourself face to face with a proper fire to test that ability... a little light will do for now.

"Halt, suspicious fiend!"

A young-sounding voice calls out to you, and you spin your head around. "What?"

"A-ha!" the girl before you exclaims. A conservatively dressed redhead, with her hair twisted into curls. She has a strange smug grin on her face as she catches you standing around. "Just what do you think you're doing with that lighter! Looks like another twisted arsonist has been caught by none other than..."

The girl begins posing dramatically with each statement. "The infamous! The deadly! The Fear-inspiring! The El Diablo of Shinto... LANGLEY FLETCHER!"

You pause, looking directly at her. No expression on your face, you don't know how to react, except... "Who?"

The girl collapses to her knees, a look of shame on her face. "How... how mean!" she yells, before popping back to her feet, taking a deep breath, and returning to her dramatic stance. "You'll pay for this, firestarter!"

"I'm not setting fire to anything!" you protest. "I'm just hanging out."

"And how can I believe you?" she asks. "You can't kid me! I'm the Queen of Craftiness!"

"How many nicknames do you have for yourself?!" you ask.

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Langley pouts. "Don't you know? I'm a brand new Major of the Shinto army, and the daughter of the dread pirate Jack Cutlass!"

Jack Cutlass'... daughter?

Your mind pictures Jack Cutlass. Then you picture the prototypical Shinto soldier.

Then you look at this Langley Fletcher.

"Uh huh..." you mutter.

Her face turns to a grimace. "You're judging me, I know it!"

"That's not a lie..." you admit. "You don't really look like you're a pirates daughter, or a major. I'm not trying to insult you, but that's the truth."

She places her hands on her hips. "Oh yeah? I'm sure you're all-important, aren't you?"

>Well, I am Sun Boros' son.
>You're right, I'm kind of a nobody...
>Wait, I recognise you! You're Mao's friend from school, right?

>>3829269
>Wait, I recognise you! You're Mao's friend from school, right?
She's got his chuuni streak without the insanity to back it up

>>3829269
>>Wait, I recognise you! You're Mao's friend from school, right?
CUTEY

>>3829269
>>Well, I am Sun Boros' son.
>>3829269

>>3829269
>Wait, I recognise you! You're Mao's friend from school, right?

Calling for
>Wait, I recognise you! You're Mao's friend from school, right?

Writing now.

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>Wait, I recognise you! You're Mao's friend from school, right?

Langley stops her insesant posing for just a moment to stare at you. "H-huh? Uhh... yeah... wait, how do you know Mao?!"

He gives a polite chuckle as you scratch the back of your head. "Well, she's kinda my older sister... or half-sister..."

Langley nods. "Oh, of course! You have similar hair and-WAIT A MINUTE..."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S7DgZ5MRO9E

Her eyes widen as she begins to put the pieces together. "If Mao is your sister... then that means your father is... is..."

Langley immediately falls back, collapsing to the floor. "You okay?" you ask.

She quickly perks back up, but starts stamping her feet. "Why didn't you tell me to start! If you're the son of Sun Boros, you start with that! I... I just can't believe a member of the Sun family is a devious arsonist..."

"I'm not!" you exclaim, as the two of you begin to get into each-others faces.

"I don't see your alibi!" she exclaims.

"Alibi? I'm right here!" you fire back.

"Which places you at the scene of the crime!"

"There is no crime!"

"Not after I put a stop to it!"

Your hands are on each-others shoulders, shaking the other wildly, but are both interrupted by a young man's laughter. "What's this? Did Langley actually make a friend?"

You look to see a brown-haired boy in a classic red jumpsuit, sporting the colours of the Shinto fleet. You've seen him before... in fact, you went to school with him. Zhu Kuang... back when you studied together, he was the top of the class by every metric. He was smart, he was sporty, he was popular with everyone. He was even known to be kind and charitable. It's no surprise knowing that he rose through the ranks to be a Major at the age of nineteen.

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"I don't make friends!" Langley protests, returning to her poses. "I am not fit for society! I am the dark omen of the night, cursed to stalk the stars solo!"

"Well, those first two sentences were right," Zhu flicks his hair, before teasingly flicking her nose. Langley grabs it and glares with an embarrassed blush. "I'll have to apologise for my partner. She's a year older than me, yet she makes me feel like I'm not the most immature major in the army. You seem nice... and familiar, actually."

"Yes, we went to-"

"We went to school together!" Zhu snaps his fingers, remembering. "You're uhh... Chan... no, Chen! You're part of the Sun family! Oh man, I remember how Mao once barrelled me over during a rugby scrum, she was intent on breaking my leg to win!"

"She hasn't changed much!" you smile with a cheerful laugh.

"And Yin was such a graceful upperclassman..." he mutters. "Is she looking for a husband, by the way? Because... ah, never mind. Let's talk about you! Last time we spoke, we... ah... when was that?"

You shake your head, but don't lose your smile. "We never actually spoke," you reply casually.

Zhu raises an eyebrow. "Never? That can't be right... we were in the same class and everything!"

"I didn't talk to many people through school," you admit.

Zhu lets out a small hum in thought. "I see... well, fate has brought us together now!"

"Actually, I brought you two together!" Langley exclaims. "Ooh, the deliverer of fate, I should use that later..."

Zhu smirks as he turns to you. "She's not causing you trouble, is she? Langley is more than a little odd if you ask me."

>Not at all. She's a family friend, actually.
>She was wrongfully accusing me of crimes, but I think we cleared things up.
>She's not odd. She's just... uhh... hmm...

>>3829323
>>She was wrongfully accusing me of crimes, but I think we cleared things up.
>>She's not odd. She's just... uhh... hmm...

>>3829323
>Not at all. She's a family friend, actually.

>>3829323
>>Not at all. She's a family friend, actually.
It's funny because we're not even in the family (:

>>3829323
>She's not odd. She's just... uhh... hmm...

Calling for
>Not at all. She's a family friend, actually.
>And she's not odd. She's just... uhh... hmm...

Writing now.

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>Not at all. She's a family friend, actually.
>And she's not odd. She's just... uhh... hmm...

"F-family friend?!" Langley turns bright red. "But I just said, y'know! Omen of the night, cursed to yada yada, you can't call me a friend!"

Zhu chuckles. "Noticed some struggling on your explanation. I remember you being super polite, but sometimes you just gotta be honest! She's odd! Totally Whacko! But that's not always a bad thing!"

"It's not?" you ask.

"Why are you implying it's a bad thing?!" Langley asks you.

"H-he's the one calling you odd!" you protest.

Zhu shrugs. "Aren't we all a little odd. Granted... this girl popped up out of nowhere claiming to be the bastard kid of the most feared pirate in the galaxy so there's that."

"And he instantly promoted me to Major because he saw the potential in me!" she explains.

"I think it was more of a sink or swim challenge... he just wants to see what you can do," Zhu remarks. "Which, so far... has been nothing, right?"

"Hey!"

"I'm just saying! You can't fight, you can't plan... you're not really cut out for the role."

You give a smile. "I'm sure she'll come into her own," you say with optimism.

Zhu glances at you with suspicion. "Jeez, you really are just a bundle of positive thoughts, aren't you?"

You shrug. "Why see the worst in people when you could see the best?"

Zhu laughs. "I'd like to see you uncover the best of Fletcher, see how that works out for you."

"I've got him!" Boros booming voice calls out, as you see your father dragging a chuckling Jack Cutlass to his quarters in a headlock. Both men have black eyes.

Jack dusts himself off as he looks to his majors. "What is this, a new recruit? I hire enough kids already! Shoo, ya damn vagrant-"

"That's my son," Boros interrupts, clonking him with a closed fist on the back of the head.

"I know, I know! I was just kiddin'!" Jack exclaims. "Hey kiddo, high five for your uncle Jack!"

You sigh and raise your hand, and Jack almost takes your arm off with a high-five.

You all enter the building and commence the meeting. You pull out your holopad and begin taking notes. "Be sure to make note of everything, boy."

Langley scoffs, cutting another pose. "You're simple a note-taker?" she asks with a smug grin. "Heh, I'm a full-blown major! My father would-"

"Oi!" Jack yells at her. "Ginger! here's that notepad I gave you? Get back to it!"

"O-of course!" a defeated Langley returns to her notes.

Despite Jack's manic energy, and Langley's constant outburst... followed by being shut down by an outburst from her supposed father, you quickly grow bored sitting and making notes of menial things... your mind begins to wander as you look down at the holopad...

>Stay focused. You don't want to let Boros down.
>Start doodling some pictures.
>Make note of how annoying Langley is being.

>>3829387
>>Stay focused. You don't want to let Boros down.
Daddy please be proud

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>>3829387
>Start doodling some pictures.

>>3829387
>>Make note of how annoying Langley is being.

>>3829387
>>Stay focused. You don't want to let Boros down.

Calling for
>Stay focused. You don't want to let Boros down.

Writing now.

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>Stay focused. You don't want to let Boros down.

You try to stay alert, keeping up with the note-taking. Wu was incredibly diligent when given this role, and you can't lag behind your younger sister. You keep your head down and continue to type away... though you notice Langley peering over your shoulder to copy off your own notes, and quickly darting back to her chair every time you'd turn your head to her.

You finish up with the meeting as you pool out of Jack building. "So, we're joining the NOAH raid then?" he asks.

Boros shakes his head. "We MIGHT be working to LIBERATE the NOAH. Let's not go around calling it a raid."

"Not like you to listen to Camelot," Jack responds. "That Janna Von Beck must be real convincing."

"Marco Shao's important as hell," Boros explain. "I'm not the smartest guy around, but I'm damn sure not losing him to that damned kingpin!"

As you leave, Langley begins to taunt you. "Huehuehue..." she chuckles as she poses. "So long arsonist, just know that you're being watched over by the eye that sees through the shadows, and-AGH!"

She's stopped by Zhu pulling her hair upwards, as tears instantly enter her eyes. "Cut it out!"

You walk with Boros as he lets out a low chuckle. "Seems you're making friends, Chen."

"I wouldn't really call it that..." you remark.

Boros sighs. "I don't recall you ever having friends growing up. I remember that Langley girl even having sleepovers at our home... Zi would often have his friends around... but you?"

"I didn't have any," you confirm.

"And why was that?" he asks you. "People give you a bad reputation, for what? Because you're from the streets? Because you're illegitimate, as they say? You've been living under my roof for close to fifteen years now, that's as legitimate as it gets, I say."

Boros clenches his fist sternly. "I won't have others attacking a part of my family."

"Am I?" you mutter.

"What was that?"

"Nothing..." you smile. "Just thinking out loud."

"Hmm..." Boros grunts. "Well, we've still got a full day ahead. I'll let you choose the next General."

"But you let me choose-"

"I'm letting you choose all of them!" he gives a jolly chuckle, patting his chest. "Come on, savour it! You'll be working around my schedule after this!"

>Sun Zi
>Sun Chou
>Amadeus Yu
>Erica

>>3829425
>>Sun Zi
>>3829425

>>3829425
>Sun Zi

Calling for
>Sun Zi

Writing now.

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>Sun Zi

You and Boros make your way to Zi's quarters, not far off from your home. In fact, it's the next building over from the royal palace.

You walk up to the door, and as it slides open, you're almost attacked by a young man in waiting. He pops out from the door, nun-chucks in hand as he looks at you, his wild blonde hair pressed upwards by his fighting headband. He recognises you, and lets out a sigh. "Oh it's just the runt kid, I thought you were an intruder. Yo, Zi! Your little brother's here... oh, and your dad too!"

"They're here for a meeting..." Zi sighs as he approaches the door. "Boros and Chou will be overlooking... oh, not Chou. My other brother. Good day, Chen."

"Hello, Zi..." you give a respectful bow.

"Did I overhear you calling him the runt?" Boros glares at Zi's major. Zi glares as well, slapping him over the side of the head.

"How many times do I have to tell you to stop calling him that!" Zi exclaims to his longtime friend. "He's my brother, Meng! You can't insult him like that!"

Meng rolls his eyes. "But that's what he is!"

Gan Meng... Zi's best friend and greatest rival. For years they've been competing with each-other, ever since they were children. And Meng was just one of many who picked on you as you grew up. Many fights between the two started from Zi sticking up for his family against Meng's complete lack of respect.

You step inside with Zi, as he speaks to his father. "Yu Qi is currently engaged in preparations with Si, so I'm down a major," he explains. "Just like I was when you broke his arm, father."

Boros shrugs. "He wanted to marry my daughter and challenged me to prove it! What was I supposed to do?"

"Rough him up but left him able to work the next day?" Zi suggest, with his usual level-headedness.

"Nah, I prefer your dad's method," Gan Meng explains. "If you've got a guy beat, you really have to drive home that you've beaten him. Isn't that right, Boros?"

"Aye, that's right!" Boros chuckles, as Zi lets out a sigh.

Zi turns to you with a ponderous look. "You're just taking notes today, Chen?" he asks.

"Yes."

He shakes his head. "Shame. I think you have potential for battle. I suggested to father that you replace Yu Qi as a Major while he's out for the time being... as a sort of trial run. Father refused it."

He... what?

You look to your father with a confused and expectant look, but he just turns to face Zi. "On with the recap, let's get to it!"

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As Zi goes into detail about his unit's supplies and training developments, you continue to make notes. As things wind down, the meeting turns to personal matters, a catch-up between father and son.

"So, why haven't you gone and found a wife yet? Or several?" Boros asks. "I already had six kids by the time I was your age!"

"I'm not interested in pursuing marriage simply out of obligation," Zi remarks.

Meng chuckles. "Ha, classic from the rat of Shinto! I've seen you sneaking around with that Erica chick!"

"There's no sneaking," Zi responds. "And I'm simply integrating her into Shinto culture, and providing recommendations for majors to take on. She hired Yin and Wu."

"Did you recommend me?" you blurt out without thinking.

Zi pauses. "I... believe I mentioned your name and made note of your potential."

Zi is a terrible liar, but you're glad he's at least trying to spare your feelings.

"I don't see you hounding your other sons about this," Zi remarks.

Boros shakes his head. "You're my oldest! And besides, Chou has a wife!"

"And Chen?" Zi asks. "He's your son, he's of age. Are you pursuing anyone at the moment?"

>There's someone I might like...
>Not really, I don't talk to anyone other than my sisters.
>Oh boy, no way!

>>3829508
>>Not really, I don't talk to anyone other than my sisters.
That last one is going to get us punched

>>3829508
>>There's someone I might like...
When in doubt, lie.

>>3829508
>Not really, I don't talk to anyone other than my sisters.

Also, will be heading out, will be continuing either later tonight or early tomorrow, but keep up the voting and discussion!

>>3829508
>Not really, I don't talk to anyone other than my sisters.

>>3829530
Why everyone so mean to good boy Chen....

>>3829508
>>Not really, I don't talk to anyone other than my sisters.
>>3829566
Cause fuck the bastard.

>>3829508
>Not really, I don't talk to anyone other than my sisters
Wincest!

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>Not really, I don't talk to anyone other than my sisters.

Gan Meng lets out a loud chuckle and slaps his thigh, throwing his head back as he does. "Oh man, that's rich! Can't blame you, to be honest! I'd rather spend all of my time with your sisters too-"

Zi quickly slaps Meng across the head as he continues. "If Chen isn't pursuing relationships, I don't see why I face all of the pressure. I may be oldest, but you were younger than Chen when I was born."

"Yeah, but Chen's not really following the family line, is he?" Meng asks, garnering a deadly glare from Boros and Zi. You hang your head low, and Zi lets out a sigh.

"I'm simply saying that Chen and I both can live at our own pace," Zi explains. "You have three adults sons, and four more still to grow. Your legacy is safe."

Boros smirks as he looks to you, patting you on the back with a low laugh. "Har, look how defensive he gets on the subject! Perfectly embarrassed to talk about it with his old man!"

With that, you and Boros end your meeting with Zi. He gives you a respectful handshake, which was kind of him. However, it reminds you of the fact that you've never hugged your oldest brother.

You walk down the street with Boros who lets out a sigh. "Damn... three more to meet. I wasn't built for admin, Chen! I rule this fleet because I'm the best fighter! Not by being the best with books! I haven't read a book in years, I just have Amadeus read them for me!"

"Lord Boros..." you mutter. "Why did you refuse the suggestion to make me a major?"

Boros shakes his head. "Because son, you've got much more important roles ahead of you."

"Like... note-taking?" you raise and eyebrow.

Boros snaps his fingers. "Exactly! Like note-taking! Look... let's move on, shall we? Who's up next for you?"

Clearly, your father doesn't want to talk about it. Fair... you won't force to man to admit to your face that he has no faith in you.

>Sun Chou
>Amadeus Yu
>Erica

>>3829985
Family first. Well, after Jack.

>>3829985
>>Sun Chou
Let's get him over with.

>>3829992
>>3829992
Huh. Thought I had highlighted Sun Chou.

>>3829985
>Amadeus Yu
>inb4 it turns out that Amadeus just reads Boros kids books

Calling for
>Sun Chou

Writing now.

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>Sun Chou

"I suppose we should..." you mutter after mentioning Sun Chou by name.

"Suppose?" Boros grumbles. "That's your brother you're talking about. You should both get along."

"I'd like that too," you respond. "I really would..."

Growing up, you looked up to Chou and Zi. Your older brothers, they were tall, they were cool, they were tough. They felt like younger versions of your father, your hero, while you... well, you weren't. You always wanted to be friends with Chou, to follow behind him on his journeys. And at times you still do to this day.

You arrive at Chou's quarters, where Boros has no respect for decorum. Easily entering through the sliding door, Boros bellows out to his second child. "Chou! Come meet me!"

You sigh. Chou has always been the most pigheaded and boisterous in the family, and Boros isn't afraid of raising his voice back to the boy.

"Give me a moment!" Chou calls back. "Wait in that room, have some patience, okay?"

"Are you talking down to your father?"

"I'm exerting my authority as general!"

"I'm the damn Chieftain! You don't have any authority over me, boy!"

Boros marches into the room where Chou is calling from, as he motions you towards the meeting room. You take your seat inside and wait for Boros to drag Chou into an actual meeting. You tap your feet as you wait patiently in the room, though you feel a slight breeze on your neck that raises the hairs on your body. Like the air just shifted. A sneaking presence, which could only mean...

You leap from your chair to see him, the man standing with a blade close to your body. A long-haired serious man, with intent to kill in his eyes. He looks to you, then looks down to see the chair's base hooked beneath your feet. You can fling it in his direction faster than he can attack you, the necessary distraction.

Noting this, the man places his sword back in its sheath. "You remembered, Chen."

"You were adamant that it be hammered into me, Master Lu Ran."

Lu Ran, your tutor in the art of combat, indebted to the Sun family. From Zi to Wu and beyond, you owe your skills in battle to him. You weren't his best student by any means, but you were passable. He was straightforward in his teachings, and you were attentive, you worked well together. Chou greatly valued his teachings, to the point that he would trust no other to become one of his majors. And his other major must also be nearby...

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And just like that, you feel the sneaking thin fingers running themselves through your hair. "Oh my, Chen is keeping up his lessons," she speaks in her regal voice. You turn your head and blush looking at the intensely beautiful woman in a red robe standing before you. Salma... while Lu Ran was your master of combat, Salma tutored you in the art of tactics and strategy. Again, you were a passable student... though Si of course excelled in her class, the best student she ever had. Then again, Si was also the worst student Lu Ran ever had.

You're very aware of your blushing face. Salma was your first ever crush, and her face refuses to age. Almost supernatural in her beauty... but her mind is the true asset. Her wit and intelligence is unmatched perhaps throughout the galaxy, so Chou did not hesitate to have her do all his thinking for her.

"Perhaps you've remained studious?" Salma asks.

"I'd like to think so," you reply.

Salma smiles. "Ah, my precious boy... what's this? You're tasked with simply note-taking?"

"Yes, I'm proud to be trusted with-"

"A waste of your talent," Salma replies. "You should be in a higher position."

You shake your head. "Oh, I don't mind. I don't think I'm qualified-"

"Oh, you most certainly aren't," she explains. "You were an average student... in both our classes, I believe. It was your dedication and eagerness... you would work within your limitations, and while your weaknesses were clear, you always reached your desired outcome in spite of them. Put simply... you were impossible."

"Oh... thank you," you respond. "I don't think I understand, but I appreciate the compliment... I think it's a compliment?"

Salma smirks, as she looks to Lu Ran. "Perhaps we can fit in more lessons with you. Tell me, Chen... who's teachings did you value more?"

"What?" you ask.

"I was never able to pin it down," she explains. "Are you a man of violence or a man of thought?"

>I valued Lu Ran's teachings more.
>I valued your teachings more.
>I valued them both in equal measure.

>>3830071
>>I valued them both in equal measure.
>"Violence is nothing without thought, and thought requires action to back it up."

>>3830071
>>I valued them both in equal measure
Who would dump all their points in just STR or INT alone?

Calling for
>I valued them both in equal measure.

Writing now.

>I valued them both in equal measure.

Salma smirks to herself, placing her fingers delicately across her cheek. "That was the correct answer, Chen."

"There was supposed to be a correct answer?" you ask.

Salma laughs, while Lu Ran remains stoic standing in the background. You don't recall that man ever smiling in his life. "Yes, there was. If you were relying on a single method of action, you would have failed in all you've been taught."

"Oh... right," you reply. "Yes, it's as you would say..."

"Violence is nothing without thought, and thought requires action to back it up," Salma remarks. "I am pleased to see you remember."

You and Salma share a smile, but you are quickly interrupted.

"Stop talking to him."

Chou enters the room with Boros, staring daggers at you. He takes his seat and grunts. "Don't think you get a say. Sit down, shut up, and do your job."

"He has a right to speak," Boros fires back.

"And I have a right to tell him to shut up," Chou replies. "I don't want to hear any of his half-baked ideas."

You sigh. "Chou, I'm just here to take notes, and-"

"Good. Do that."

You decide to do as Chou said. You don't want to argue with the boar of Shinto.

You sit in silence and make your notes. The meeting is short, Chou is quick and to the point, and often relies on Salma explaining matters for him. You doubt she cares much for working directly under him, he was far from her favourite student. He was, however, perfectly suited for master Lu Ran.

After the meeting, you move to the door, as the pissed-off Chou glares at you once more. "Listen, runt. Don't think my father giving you a task a monkey could handle means anything. You're not fit to carry my luggage, and you'll never be better than the gutters you came from."

Boros didn't hear that run-down. And you don't respond. You just move on.

All your life, you've wanted to be Chou's friend and his brother.

You've accepted by now that he will never feel the same.

"Mostly done..." Boros yawns. "Who next, kiddo?"

>Amadeus Yu
>Erica

>Amadeus Yu
We should leave the space gaijin for last.

>>3830152
>>Amadeus Yu

>>3830152
>>Amadeus Yu

Calling for
>Amadeus Yu

Writing now.

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>Amadeus Yu

You feel somewhat guilty making Amadeus Yu wait this long... he's an incredibly patient and reasonable man, and you feel leaving him until late is taking advantage of that patience. Then again, you're leaving the newest General until last, which could also be considered rude...

"Someone had to be left to the end," Boros remarks.

"You knew what I was thinking?" you ask.

Boros nods. "I know my kid. That look on your face always means you were worried about someone else's feeling over something nobody else would give a damn about."

"I suppose you do..."

You and Boros make your way to the quarters of Amadeus Yu, and he is incredibly punctual in meeting with the Shinto Chieftan. "Ah, Boros!" he smiles as he greets his leader. "Good day! Oh, and you brought your fifth child along! Will he be joining the military?"

Boros shakes his head. "No, he's just here to assist me and take notes."

Amadeus Yu looks you up and down. "Shame," he remarks. "He's loaded with potential. His ability grants him manipulation of fire, correct? I could have so many viable uses for him..."

Amadeus Yu is an intelligent, cheerful, polite and kind man... but when it comes to wording he often phrases things in a socially unacceptable way, showing a clear lack of skills on that front. You know it was a compliment on his part, but speaking of you like you're malleable experiment fodder is definitely one of many examples that have had him labelled as creepy.

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As he leads you inside, Yu is soon flanked by his two sons... who also happen to be his two majors. Jafar and Kasai, a pair of twins as you recall. Long dark hair with stern expressions abound, you can certainly see the family resemblance. Their lack of conversation and forward facing glares... their body language around their father makes them seem more like bodyguards than sons.

You sit down and begin to take notes... a lot of notes. Amadeus Yu is the head strategist of Shinto, and so the information he provides is vast.

"And so, the current infiltration mission aboard the NOAH will work to cause disarray within Dong's forces..." Yu explains. "Just in time for the coalition of fleets to assault and reclaim the ship."

"Coalition of fleets..." Boros scoffs. "No way I'll be working with those Camelot bastards beyond this."

"It's not wise to turn away and mutually beneficial arrangement for personal grudges," Yu points out.

Boros shakes his head. "It's not about grudges. It's about trust. I don't trust Camelot to live up to any kind of arrangement. Athens either, for that matter."

"That's true enough," Yu responds, before turning his head to you and examining you once more. "Shall he be joining you to... assist and take notes as you assault on the NOAH?"

"You really want to use his fire powers, don't you?"

"An active biochip is a wonderful thing..." Yu admits. "I feel he would be a true asset. What of it, Chen? Do you wish to join the battle?"

"Lord Boros won't allow-"

Yu places his hand up. "Now, now... I didn't ask if your father would allow it. I asked if you wanted to join the battle?"

>Yes, of course I do. I want to help.
>No... my place is safe at home. I'd be of no help.

||Calling it a night, will continue when I awake tomorrow!||

>>3830258
>>Yes, of course I do. I want to help.
"Si is my sister, snakes and all."

>>3830258
>>Yes, of course I do. I want to help.

>>3830258
>>Yes, of course I do. I want to help.
Looking forward for the next part.

>>3830258
>Yes, of course I do. I want to help.

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>Yes, of course I do. I want to help.

Amadeus gives a smiling nod before turning his head to look at Boros. "He wishes to help, and I believe he's capable."

"That doesn't matter," Boros grunts, his face turning stern. "We're going to stop speaking on this matter this instant, understood?"

Amadeus grins and laughs. "Well, if you say so, my lord. I've never seen you so defensive."

As the meeting finishes up, you begin to leave when Amadeus places a hand on your shoulder. You look back to him and the strategist gives you a friendly smile with his eyes closed. "I believe your father will come around. Have patience, you'll have your chance to help yet."

Comforting words, you suppose. Shame you can't believe them. Boros doesn't often change his mind, your father is as stubborn as they come.

"Last one, finally..." Boros remarks. "The Camelot woman..."

Erica, the mysterious and beautiful new general. You're a young man, and found yourself enchanted on first meeting her, but moreso than anything you're intrigued by her mysterious past. She rose through the ranks so quickly with her abilities, yet you know nothing about her. Why did she leave Camelot? Why did she come to Shinto? She wasn't part of the Camelot military, yet made her way here and quickly became a top member of the Shinto army?

You arrive at Erica's quarters, where your sister Wu is quick to answer the door. "Good day, father. Chen."

She gives a respectful bow, and Boros gives a grunt. "Ugh, first day as a major and you're already subservient! Stand up straight, I'm your father, not your leader!"

"Yes, of course..." Wu mutters. "I simply want to display my undying loyalty to my fleet-"

"To your family!" Boros fires back. "Talk like family!"

Wu stands up straight and looks to you with holopad in hand. "Ah, you are filling in my previous role, Chen. Might I suggest you make use of size 16 font with the typeset of..."

Wu enters a tirade of specifications, down to the finest detail for the optimal presentation of the notes for Boros. You simply nod along, barely able to follow. She truly is diligent, isn't she?

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As you enter the meeting room, you spot Yin and give her a wave. Your half-sister nervously looks down, a bead of sweat dripping from her head. "You okay?" you ask.

"A-ah..." she mutters. "First d-day nerves..."

Classic Yin. She's always been nervous and shy... yet in battle she's as fierce as a tiger.

You sit down with your father, as the general Erica enters the room, looking cool and aloof. "Chieftain Boros."

"Erica."

There is a long silence, before Erica's calm demeanour breaks, her face scrunching up with embarrassment. "Umm, is there a ceremony for this sort of meeting? I, well... should I bow? Is that a thing here?"

"Just sit down," Boros remarks, un-amused. "You don't have to do an impression of someone from Shinto. We aren't at a damn tea ceremony."

"Y-you have tea ceremonies?" she asks, as she sits down. Boros just grunts.

"... So, we're taking the NOAH alongside Camelot and Athens?" she asks. "I see... and to think I'm only a few months removed from being a citizen of Camelot..."

"We'll be travelling together in our warships," Boros explains. "I've divided up who will be travelling in which ship."

Erica nods. "That's all well and good," she replies. "Though I have one condition. I refuse to travel in the same ship with Jack Cutlass."

Boros tilts his head. "Oh? And why's that?"

Erica shakes her head. "That's my perogative."

"I'd rather not be on a ship with him..." Yin admits. "He's very... loud."

>You should tell us, he's your fellow general.
>That seems reasonable. You can be slotted in with Zi instead.
>You're a very secretive person... sorry, I didn't mean to offend.

>>3831181
>>That seems reasonable. You can be slotted in with Zi instead.
Who WOULD want to be with Jack Cutlass, of their own free will?

>>3831181
>You should tell us, he's your fellow general.
We're all a single unit, a problem with one General could get everyone killed.

Also Jack is best boi anyway, fuck you Erica.

>>3831181
>You should tell us, he's your fellow general.
Backstory ho!

Calling for
>You should tell us, he's your fellow general.

Writing now.

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>You should tell us, he's your fellow general.

Erica looks to you, and so does Boros.

Whoops, you were just supposed to be taking notes, and yet those words just blurted out of your mouth. "Uhh... I mean-"

"No, he's right," Boros nods. "If you've got a problem with a fellow general, I need to know."

Erica looks Boros dead in the eye and gives a nod. "Very well. I won't share a ship with Cutlass because I'm certain I'll kill him."

"W-what?!" Yin stammers nervously.

"And why is that?" Wu asks her.

Erica interlocks her fingers and crosses her legs with confidence as she sits. "Simple. Jack Cutlass killed my parents. I intend to have my revenge."

A silence falls upon the room. You could hear a pin drop.

At least, until Boros slaps his thigh and begins laughing. "Har! That's brilliant! You became a general just for revenge?"

"Yes," Erica nods. "I assume you wish to demote me for-"

"Not a chance!" Boros laughs. "I love it! That's something I can respect! Heh... fine, you won't travel with Jack's unit. You and Zi will be together."

Erica's eyes widen. "Zi... together? I..." she clears her throat. "Ahem, yes. That would be optimal."

"I don't think so," Wu begins. "Looking at the layout I have a few tweaks for the true optimal arrangement, if you're willing to hear?"

"Go ahead," Boros replies.

This is the longest meeting yet, and you're left with a ton of notes. Thankfully, Wu's font suggestions were definitely accurate.

You step out, as Boros takes the holopad from your hand.

"Thanks, son... you were a real help today, buddy."

You give a small smile, as Boros turns to leave.

"Take me to war with you."

Huh? Who said that?

Wait... it was you. You said that.

Boros slowly turns around. "What?"

"I..." you mutter. "Dad... I can't sit back. Even my younger sister is going out there. I... I want to help! I can't be a bystander!"

"Chen, you aren't ready," Boros remarks. "Wu is an exception. She's the hardest worker and-"

"I can work hard!" you exclaim. "I promise! You can trust me!"

"NO!" Boros booms, putting his foot down. "Listen here, boy! I am your father, and you will respect my authority!"

You hang your head low. "But... why? Am... am I not good enough?"

Boros examines you, the anger on his face turning to sadness, as he lets out a sigh. "No, Chen... I... you're special."

"Huh?" you raise your head to look at him. Boros approaches and places a hand on your shoulder.

"I wish I could tell you who your mother was..." he sighs. "I wish I could even narrow it down. But you... you're unique."

You've been told that a lot. You're 'unique', you're different... you don't belong.

"You're my only child from that world..." Boros remarks. "When I saw you... on that street, begging for food... I instantly knew. It didn't take me a second thought to bring you in. That night... was the only time I cried. My own son... for five years, begging on the street, barely able to speak or read. The guilt I felt..."

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Your father trails off, before pulling you in for a tight hug, your head buried into his stomach as he places his hand on the back of your head. "I know it hasn't been easy... but you're my son, and I love you. I... I don't want to lose you, boy."

"I... I understand, dad."

You understand, but you can't agree. Boros loves all of his children, yet you are the only one he won't allow to venture off on his own. You may be more irreplaceable, but you can't be babied away forever. But for now... you'll respect your father's wishes.


Later that night, you receive a knock on your door. You open to see Si standing before you.

"Good evening, Chen..." she mutters, attempting to seem regal. "As you know, I will be departing tomorrow to be wed."

"I know..." you reply. "Good luck with your mission. I know you'll be safe."

"Ever the optimist..." Si mutters, her lips curling as she locks eyes with you, trying to shrug it off. "I just felt the need to bid you a respectful farewell. If our operation is a failure, it's unlikely we'll ever meet again."

You lock eyes with Si. "That won't happen," you reply with a smile. "I have faith."

Si nods, as she enters your room. "Well, while you may be the common runt of the family, I believe you at least deserve a good bye. After all, we've known each-other for years, and are closest in age... you may be little more than an illegitimate manservant, but I... I recall several memories of time together that were... were..."

Si's voice cracks and she loses her composure, her eyes welling up as she looks to you. "Chen, I'm scared."

You hug Si tightly, as she cries into your shoulder. It's the most vulnerability she's ever shown before you. You hold her until she has composed herself, and bid her a good night.

The next morning, and the army is beginning to take off, with Si having already left with Matt's crew in the early hours.

You are quick to find Mao in port, arguing with Boros' two majors as they are boarding.

"Come on!" Mao hops up and down. "Tag me in! I'm ready to fight!"

Dang Kanemaru, Boros' best friend and most loyal general lets out a laugh. "Ha! Like you're ready, you little bunny! I still remember your mother changing your diapers!"

"I'm twenty-one!" she yells in protest, while Boros' other major Qiao Da giggles.

"Oh, honey! She's so precocious!" she says, bemused. Qiao Da is married to Kanemaru, though she's closer in age to you and Mao than she is to Boros' childhood friend.

The two leave Mao behind as they board Boros' ship, and she hangs her head low and sighs. "Dammit... I'm almost tempted to sneak aboard and stowaway."

"What a coincidence!" you smile. "That's exactly what I'm about to do!"

"W-what?!" Mao exclaims, as you run to the docking bay. She quickly follows. "Well I'm stowing away too! On what ship?"

>With Boros and Chou
>With Amadeus and Jack
>With Erica and Zi

>>3831277
>>With Boros and Chou
Go big or go home.

>>3831277
>With Amadeus and Jack
I think they are the most likely ones to not lock us down or report us to Boros... or Jack kills us I guess that’s also a possible outcome.

>>3831277
>With Amadeus and Jack
They're less likely to turn us in

>>3831277
>>With Amadeus and Jack

Calling for
>With Amadeus and Jack

Writing now.

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>With Amadeus and Jack

Mao nods, and the two of you don't hesitate.

You were willing to respect Boros' wishes... but Si is in danger. You can't stand back.

As you run up the loading ramp amongst the other soldiers, Langley is quick to spot you and Mao. "H-hey, stop right there you-"

"Shut it and find us a place to hide!" Mao yells at her.

"O-okay!" Langley instantly crumbles, as she leads you to her quarters.

As you sit down and collect your breath, you soon realise what you did. "Oh no!" you yell. "We just disobeyed Boros! Oh, he's going to be so disappointed!"

You throw your head back... but you know that ultimately, you did the right thing.

Si... you're coming to help.


>Meanwhile, aboard the NOAH

"What have we here?"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xAIrePQjlBE

"Dammit, we're caught!" the leader of the freedom fighters exclaimed. An attempt to break out Kilroy, the most powerful man aboard the NOAH. Likely the only chance at defeating the almighty LB. However, despite LB being out on a raid for straggling ships, they were unable to meet their destination. LB may be the trump card in Dong's arsenal... but he has no shortage of Elites.

And before them now stood the most dangerous group in the galaxy.

Seven shadowy figures, dressed in black leather, of different shapes and sizes stand before the resistance group. Revving hover-cycles in the background, the apparent leader steps forward, a stick of pocky in his mouth as he examined the surrendering fighter.

"What do we do with them, Styles?" a woman among the group's voice asks.

The blonde leader adjusts his sunglasses as he smirks. "Same thing we did with the last group."

He mimes a blaster with his fingers, as he points at the leader of the resistance, already throwing down his own weapons in defeat. "Good luck, and good night!"

As Styles simulates recoil of his finger gun, a real blaster shot flies past his shoulder and burns through the forehead of the resistance leader with pinpoint precision.

"Thought you could pull a fast one on us, huh?" Styles yells at the rest. "Thought you could pull a fast one on Dong's elite squad?! Don't you limp dicks know who we are? We're the god damn BULLET CLUB!"

"And we..." another voice calls out. "Are JUST. TOO. SWEET!"

Once the resistance members are taken care of, Styles receives a message directly. "Well, what do you know? Looks like we've got a few armies to deal with. Don't they know who rules this Galaxy?"

The members of the elite club laugh and place their hands together in the group huddle. "It'll take more than an army to take us down..." Styles remarks. "Gentlemen... welcome to war."

END OF CHAPTER 21

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>Ending Theme
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K6_wBQKDJMI

>Archive
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=Kingdoms%20in%20the%20Stars

>Twitter
https://twitter.com/bookerman32

>Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/BookerMan

Thanks for playing! More KitS within the next week, follow the Twitter for any updates!

>Player Questions
Now that the full Shinto cast have been unveiled, what are your thoughts on them? And what are your thoughts on each fleet's roster, now that there's been a highlight thread for each of them?

>>3831384
Thanks for running Booker.

>PQ
Camelot Generals will probably survive unless based Gawain thinks throwing them into a blender will beat Dong and LB while Athens and Shinto will battle for the most losses, either by flag collection or not listening for obvious dead ends by Chen.

Also BASED Jack is great, joyrides and robs people before meetings.

>>3831384
Thanks for running.
>>Player Questions
The introductions are over. The Shinto fleet looks like the most unstable of all the other fleets, and I love them for that, I think they are the ones with the most crazies but still have their share of serious characters.

I am really interested in whats going to happen to all this characters over the war, and the new mini boss squads looks COOL!