Down the Rabbit Hole - A Kancolle RP (IC)

[Offer Erapia]

Heavy cruiser Jason, cafe




Upon reaching the door Jason opened it and Calmly walked inside. He looked around and sat at the nearest table the sweet aroma of good made his stomach growl. His mouth watered at the site of the laminated menu. He had a hard time making up his mind on what to order everything looked so good. But he had to make a decision, and so, he went with a steak which was one of his favorite meals. He made sure to make it heavy cruiser size so he could get his fill.

After he had eaten and the waiter took his dish he stood up his gut full.

"Such a nice day maybe I'll go for a walk"

He said as he left. His shoes clicked against the ground as he walked deep in thought. Truth be told he was bored he really wanted to be assigned a mission. He wanted to be on the seas brawling with abyssmals, fighting the enemy on the front lines was considered and honor for Erapian ships. As he continued to think he realised he had ended up at the docks. He smirked a little bit thinking how ironic it was.

"It's like it's Calling me"

He chuckled to himself as stared at the horizon where the sky met the sea. His smirk faded when he saw a dot on the horizon it drew closer and closer it grew in size. As he stared he could clearly make out a dark and long flight deck and white hair. He gasped upon realizing who it was he knew of only one carrier who bore white hair and a dark oak deck.

"Caroline!"

He shouted smiling from ear to ear. His boredom has since left him at that moment. Not only had he found out that Mordred was stationed at base but now he had another ship from home here. He couldn't help smile and wave as the carrier approached and later docked.

[Sterkistan]

Glory
Her office

If things like this continued to happen, Glory was going to need a few things. Not least of which was a metal door, the second was a stiff drink. Preferably several stiff drinks. But that would have to wait until she wasn't on duty, and given how she was almost always on call, it was likely to be never. The overworked cruiser had just finished arranging with Kindred to feed and quarter the Abyssal prisoners and was looking forward to finally getting that shower when her door was yet again kicked open.

The primary difference this time being her proximity to the door when it was rather violently opened. She had been reaching for the handle and suddenly found it jammed into her gut. She was tired, which probably explained why her reflexes hadn't thrown her out of the way instinctively, but she at least remained on her feet. Holding her bag of possessions in one hand and her assaulted stomach in the other, she prepared a mighty rebuke at whoever had decided to take umbrage with her now.

A flurry of shouted words, something about Dia's loss, the Novoyans, and then she was removed from the room and replaced by another girl apologizing. It all happened so fast Glory was nearly blown away by the ferocity of it all. The first thing that struck her was that this girl knew the Novoyans were responsible for Dia's death. Only a choice few people knew that. Herself and Hornetsnest counted among them. She didn't want to believe Hornet had sicced this upon her, but she couldn't exactly rule it out. Whatever, a problem for tomorrow.

The gears were turning slowly and it gave Glory time to work through her short burst of anger, a burst that used up the last of her energy reserves. "You're both part of the new arrivals from today?" Dots connected in the secretary's head and she switched gears, her voice softened, "From the sound of it, she was quite close to you both." She put a hand on Lizbeth's shoulder, "I'm quite sorry for what happened, I was going to put you two on the team with Hornetsnest going into Abyssal territory, but it seems you need some time to mourn instead." An emotionally unstable ship had no place on the front, and as Lia had pretty clearly demonstrated, she was not emotionally stable.

---

Sterkian Battlegroup

---

SRN Lizbeth-Charlatan, Buschlet-Lia

---

Lizbeth's expression wilted slightly as she mentioned being taken off the list for the engagement. She raised herself out of her bow, protesting.
"I agree ma'am, the Junipris and Buschlet-Lia are not combat fit. However, I can guarantee with absolute certainty that myself and the Ven-Mcalistar are ready for combat. If you believe this not to be the case you may sink me yourself."

Lizbeth stood straight as a board, before turning on her heel and stepping outside. Grabbing a sobbing Lia by the collar, lifting her inside the room and placing her down facing the Secretary Ship. She delivered a brisk slap on the back of the Cruiser's head, paired with a downcast, angry look. Lia rubbed the back of her head, tears still rolling from her cheeks. She struggled to speak through the sobs, but managed to anyway.
"I-I'm sorry ma'am, I'm sorry. I wasn't thinking, I won't do it again."

Lizbeth seemed more satisfied with Lia's response. As her gaze was no longer on the cruiser, but rather looking straight ahead.

[Jebslund]

Carman Fea. Cafe.
When we entered... I immediately spotted Hornissennest and swallowed.
I knew, that she saw me.
She ordered two drinks, but it might as well have been rope to hang me. I was nervous as I approached her on her invitation, Kreech, hopefully, behind me.
I sat down.
And then, I listened to her entire speech in one go - where she absolved me of any responsibility. I understood the intent, I knew, what she was saying, my head understood it...
...my heart did not.
When she told me to stop kicking myself, I had to snort despite myself. It was an undignified sound, but a humoured one.
She asked me for further things to add.
I was silent for a long time. What could I add, that was relevant to the case? Nothing, really.
"No, Ma'am.", I replied and hung my head, "Thank you for your time."
A comrade died on my watch. If it would have risked me or not, I should have, at least, made a bit more of an effort to safe her. I owed it to her as a comrade.
One of the fairies, which was part of my crew, reported something to me.
I looked to Hornissennest.
"On a different note, I picked up surviving fairies. Where to with them?", I asked.

Kreech River
Cafe

The entire ordeal had taken less than a second to diffuse, and the wave of relief that washed over Kreech was very nearly tangible. Hornet was one of those superiors who could make your life suck if you got on her bad side, and the fact that she was taking it pretty easy on her friend was a great turn of fortune. Since she was really only there for moral support, Kreech kept her trap shut until Carman brought up the fairies. "You should give them to those two girls..." She looked out the door, catching a glimpse of a certain duty destroyer slipping into the cafe, "I think they'd appreciate it."

She continued to watch as the roster was posted and slowly got up, drawn to the paper like a moth to flame.

Carman Fea. Cafe.
I nodded at Kreech's suggestion, but I would wait for Hornissennest's final verdict.
Still, I, too, caught sight of the new Duty Roster arriving. Faoileán in the Admiralty again, Búraló Liath and me in a Special Detachment Force, together with a majority of our active roster. Kreech would be with us.
To be precise, we would be Escort Force, while Kreech was Bombardement Force.
This was something big. Something very, very big. We would be striking back.
Gods, this would be very interesting.
Fire for the Fire-Goddess.

Hornissennest, Cafe

The humored snort was both a good and bad sign to Hornissennest. The good news being that Carman Fea *could* laugh. Survivor's guilt and grief hadn't gained enough of a foothold to break her. Good. With the situation with the Novayans, she was already down a total of seven ships. Every ship that was stable enough to fight was a good thing. But the snort also told Hornissennest that Carman Fea still blamed herself. As the light cruiser remained silent, Hornissennest gave her time to think, using a gesture to thank Erika for the beers as she set them down and tell her to come back later.

A message came in, using a frequency Jebslunden only used for short-range communications. Turmfalke catching her eye told her she wasn't the only recipient, and the carrier nodded and made the hand signal for reinforcements as Turmfalke stood, her Fliegendschwine's fairy already taking to the air. A nod from the heavy cruiser was the only answer needed as Turmfalke instructed her aircraft to request any ships the convoy could spare.

On the subject of the fairies, Hornissennest had been about to delegate the decision to Glory when Kreech River stepped in with her suggestion. It was a reasonable one, and fitting that they should have the first choice as to who would take in the fairies. "Sounds fitting to me. Should they wish them, Junipris and Buschlet-Lia will receive Diamantina's surviving fairies, with Lizbeth-Charlatan and Ven-McAlistar taking any they cannot.", she ordered, looking over at the duty roster briefly, then writing down three names: SRN Ven-Mcalistar, SRN Lizbeth-Charlatan, and MNC Shipsplitter.

For the moment, they were her three choices for element commanders, pending additional review and any assignments dished out to whatever ships the convoy could spare them. Ven would be commanding herself at the moment, but there was always the hope she could get Glory to give her more carriers. Lizbeth and Shipsplitter, on the other hand, would be commanding small groups. The former being the battleship of the group, and therefore the only choice culturally speaking. Turmfalke barely followed Hornissennest's orders to defer to Glory's command as it was. There was no way she'd be willing to be in command of the support group when said group had a capital ship in it. As for Shipsplitter, the armored cruiser was the largest of the escort group, which meant that, given Mary Read Kerman was not command material, she was the default choice.

Mary Read Kerman, Destroyer dorms

Bed time. It was at once Mary Read Kerman's most and least favorite part of the day. On the plus side, real life rarely compared to dreams when it came to adventures, a fact helped by having been told many a story by comrades of sea legends and the adventures of her namesake, along with those of other famous pirates and other lords and ladies of the sea. Her dreams were usually filled with daring raids on Abyssals carrying gold and silver, pitched battles with monsters of the deep sea, and her being the one to chart uncharted islands and unexplored oceans.

That said, going to bed meant she couldn't partake in any more adventures that day in *real life*, and that was a bit of a downer. More so when it meant she had more time to think about Diamantina. And those rotten Novayans. She could only hope they got theirs as she opened the door to her dorm, only to stop short when she saw her roommate and an aircraft carrier. "Ma'am! Mary Read Kerman, reporting to bed as ordered by Kerriott!", she said, hastily saluting, then using her foot to slide a toy treasure chest under her bed as she neared it while hoping the superior didn't notice. Junipris, she noticed, seemed to be asleep, and it didn't take Mary Read Kerman any time after her salute to realise that Ven must have been tucking Junipris in.

NFR Cotechino. Somewhere close to base.
And suddenly, it was cold.
Really, bloody, teeth-clattering cold.
I was not the only one, who felt, that this was out of place for the tropics. We didn't have radars, so we were only clattering. But we were close to base, so it would only affect us immediately, I hoped, we would be able to retreat.
Still... this was supposed to be the tropics.
"Might as well do this now!", Passero finally concluded and cleared her throat. Then, on an encoded allied frequency, she announced: "This is aircraft carrier NFR Passero with two escorts, calling Naval District Operational Sector Eastern Sea - West. We are currently approaching the district and are... fifty kilometers out." There was a small pause. "On a different note, we are currently experiencing a... rather cold breeze. Is that normal around these parts?"

Supplies Wing, 30km from base
While there was no immediate reason to assume the enemy (or incoming allies, as the broadcasts they'd listened in on had confirmed) could see them, given Schneesturm's ability, there was something utterly terrifying, to the fairies tasked with flying in supplies, about passing within spitting distance of the three ships. They were supposed to be a ghost wing, known by no enemy, to drop off supplies and recon gyros, then get the hell back out and pretend to have never left the deck. While the base would be given warning of their arrival, any ships at sea wouldn't, unless the base notified them. Getting shot at, if spotted, was a very real possibility.

In fact, getting shot at when *heard* was a very real possibility.

But none of the autogyros in the wing could spare the fuel to detour far enough. The medium uglies, as the cargo transports were nicknamed, would have been alright, but Schneesturm could only keep her ability up for so long before her deck froze too solid to land on. Or move, for that matter. And waiting for her to thaw would leave the convoy unacceptably open, and almost certainly result in the loss of all transports. Thus it was that the sound of propellers and a handful of high-pitched jets would threaten the safety of the air element.


Turmfalke, on her way to Admiralty

"Geist Ein, this is Turmfalke acting on behalf of Hornissennest. Requesting convoy detach as many ships as you can spare for reinforcements.", Turmfalke, on her own short-range radio and using her Fleigendeschwine as an intermediary, stated, "Abyssal activity has increased in the area. Do not read back. Turmfalke out.". As soon as she signed off, Turmfalke headed toward Admiralty at flank speed. While they should, in theory, have already received the same message she and Hornissennest had, there was a chance that they hadn't, and she needed to make sure that Glory and whomever was on radar duty knew that the aircraft flying toward them were friendlies.

[Fantrum]

Kreech River
Base Cafe

Kreech, for just a second, felt a burst of pride that her two bit suggestion had been taken to heart. Those in command listening to things she had to say was rare these days, if ever. Still, it was a good feeling and added a small cherry to the top of her good mood. For one, that specter of wrath she had been fearing was just that, a specter. The smile she wore felt a lot less forced for once.

"Hey Carman, we're in the same fleet for tomorrow." What an exciting prospect! She was bombardment element, which wasnt a surprise, given her classification and heavy gun batteries. Her friend would be Escort detail, perfect! It was an excuse for Kreech to stick close to the only ship she actually trusted. "Looks like youll be my escort for the mission." A ghost of doubt crossed the back of her mind, the last ship she'd escorted hadnt come back. With a sudden jerk, Kreech banished the thought from her head.

No, that wasnt Carman's fault, how dare she even think of something so horrible? She had absolute faith in her friend, and the shame that crept up on her cooled her attitude considerably. "I wonder what they're gonna have us do?"

Ri class
Repair tubs

Ri only responded with a soft grunt. Of course he was right, she lived to fight and to kill, with whatever she could whenever she could. But the insults and vitriol he spit like venom was just a waste of effort. There werent any commissars around to send you away if you were caught having thoughts other than maim kill and burn. All abyssal ships were different it seemed. The cruiser once again found herself thankful for the calming effect the bath seemed to have on her.

"How much combat have you actually seen?" She still didnt know the kid's name, and didnt much care to find out, but he was the only entertainment she had at the moment. Most abyssals had been to combat many times in their lives, their nature demanded it, but every now and then youd find someone new, or someone without a gumption to fight. Perhaps this kid was one of those, the way he talked, he had never faced a kanmusu in his life. Though things like that could be deceiving.

Flagship Wo
The ocean

After hours, not to mention tons of ordnance, wasted, Wo called off the bombardment. Anyone on that rock would have been turned to glass along with the rest of that dirtball. She did in fact feel better having loosed a few bombs from her planes, but no body meant the sub was still around. There had been no hydrophone contact since they started their adventure, but Wo knew better than to assume things. Settling around a moderately sized river delta, Wo set her destroyers into a patrol line around the anchorage and instructed them to rotate out every few hours.

Then she found a nice patch of muddy water, and got comfy. Sub hunting could wait until tomorrow. Whoever the bitch was, she wasnt in a hurry to attack, so Wo wasnt in a hurry to chase ghosts. With night falling her planes would be pretty much useless anyway, and a sub who didnt want to be found could very easily use the darkness to their advantage. So, nothing else to do, Wo went to sleep.

Tumbledown
Admiralty

None of that sounded normal at all! But... should she tell Secretary ship Glorious? No, abnormal weather wasnt something she should be bothered about. Tumble quickly decided against venturing out to find her boss, and instead pressed the transmit button, "Roger, I- base copies all, keep alert..." She paused for a second, considering, "It could be an abyssal trick!" She checked the base Radar station, and only read the three ships she was already tracking on the radio.

"Im only tracking three contacts presently, but be careful!" Her voice broke a bit at the thought of the three kanmusu being swallowed up hole by some horrible abyssal monster! Now that was something to tell Glory about! Except... She needed to get a hold of herself, and kept her backside firmly planted on the hard wooden stool.

Glory
In Need of a shower

There was no anger left in Glory. She simply didnt have the energy to summon it if she wanted to. Instead she let out a tired sigh, straightened the bloody rags her uniform had become, and put a hand on Lizbeth's shoulder. The whole display was rather pathetic, but she sympathized dearly. This post had been nothing but heartache and pain from the moment Glory had assumed command. The cruiser would have liked nothing less than to be a crying mess on the floor with Lia.

Unfortunately she held a high office, and that prevented her from having a mental breakdown. At least a public one. She was due for a good cry when she got back to her room. But not before. "If you believe yourself to be combat fit, then by all means join the fleet." She directed her voice at Lia, still attempting to hold herself together, "But if Hornetsnest decides youre unable to fulfill your duties on the high seas, then youre benched until Polar says otherwise." There was no threat in her voice, only tired resignation. Hornet would be the commander on the scene, and if these ships werent up to her standards, she would have the right to keep them at base where they couldnt get any other kanmusu killed.

[Offer Erapia]

carrier Caroline, docks


The short white haired carrier docked with a smile. She had seen the heavy cruiser Jason by the dock she was nervous of being the only Erapian ship there but her fears were blown away like sand on a windy day. After she had docked she greeted the anxious heavy cruiser. The two chatted for a while and upon there discussion Caroline learned that Mordred, the battleship, was stationed at the base as well.

Battleship Mordred, battleship dorms

Mordred was dressed and soon left the dorm andade her way outside.

"Man I'm famished"

She said with a sigh as she walked down the sidewalk. As she walked she turned a corner and bumped into something or somebody. She stumbled back and quickly apologized her apology was short lived as she realized the two she bumped into were none other than the famed cruiser Jason and the carrier Caroline.

"No way!"

She shouted and hugged them both suddenly with joy. They hugged back of course and for a long moment they stood there embracing each other. Jason was first to pull back followed by Caroline. There faces lit up even more.

"I can't believe you guys are here I thought I was the only one from home."

She said smiling looking at them both still shocked to see them. Apparently Jason and Caroline thought the same and we're actually nervous about meeting new people. Mordred understood all to well the feeling.

"Well I must say this is a surprise, should we all discuss our travels over a meal."

She said pointing to the cafe a few hundred feet away. Although Caroline was onboard Jason declined saying he had already eaten and was in face about to head to admirality to see of a new mission he had been assigned to. Mordred nodded and walked with Caroline to the cafe it didn't take long to reach the establishment and upon entering found a seat.

So class, docks


So had fully recovered her injuries. And now she was at the docks looking out towards the sea before her mind was to fatigued to think but now a few things had crossed her mind. Her gear was gone so she couldn't exactly go home and on top of that how was the abyssmals taking her treason she knew they were mad. But above all else who was the person that saved her so couldn't remember the name or the face of the girl that saved her from certain death.

"So is curious, who, was she"

She asked herself. All she could remember was the bright green eyes. So guessed it was a submarine that saved her as they were underwater. More questions crossed her mind as she stared at the depths of the sea wondering if she would ever cross that person's path again.

"So hopes she could thank her personally"

She said heaving a sigh while letting the breeze blow through her long blue hair.

[The Selkie]

Hornissennest, Cafe

The humored snort was both a good and bad sign to Hornissennest. The good news being that Carman Fea *could* laugh. Survivor's guilt and grief hadn't gained enough of a foothold to break her. Good. With the situation with the Novayans, she was already down a total of seven ships. Every ship that was stable enough to fight was a good thing. But the snort also told Hornissennest that Carman Fea still blamed herself. As the light cruiser remained silent, Hornissennest gave her time to think, using a gesture to thank Erika for the beers as she set them down and tell her to come back later.

A message came in, using a frequency Jebslunden only used for short-range communications. Turmfalke catching her eye told her she wasn't the only recipient, and the carrier nodded and made the hand signal for reinforcements as Turmfalke stood, her Fliegendschwine's fairy already taking to the air. A nod from the heavy cruiser was the only answer needed as Turmfalke instructed her aircraft to request any ships the convoy could spare.

On the subject of the fairies, Hornissennest had been about to delegate the decision to Glory when Kreech River stepped in with her suggestion. It was a reasonable one, and fitting that they should have the first choice as to who would take in the fairies. "Sounds fitting to me. Should they wish them, Junipris and Buschlet-Lia will receive Diamantina's surviving fairies, with Lizbeth-Charlatan and Ven-McAlistar taking any they cannot.", she ordered, looking over at the duty roster briefly, then writing down three names: SRN Ven-Mcalistar, SRN Lizbeth-Charlatan, and MNC Shipsplitter.

For the moment, they were her three choices for element commanders, pending additional review and any assignments dished out to whatever ships the convoy could spare them. Ven would be commanding herself at the moment, but there was always the hope she could get Glory to give her more carriers. Lizbeth and Shipsplitter, on the other hand, would be commanding small groups. The former being the battleship of the group, and therefore the only choice culturally speaking. Turmfalke barely followed Hornissennest's orders to defer to Glory's command as it was. There was no way she'd be willing to be in command of the support group when said group had a capital ship in it. As for Shipsplitter, the armored cruiser was the largest of the escort group, which meant that, given Mary Read Kerman was not command material, she was the default choice.

Mary Read Kerman, Destroyer dorms

Bed time. It was at once Mary Read Kerman's most and least favorite part of the day. On the plus side, real life rarely compared to dreams when it came to adventures, a fact helped by having been told many a story by comrades of sea legends and the adventures of her namesake, along with those of other famous pirates and other lords and ladies of the sea. Her dreams were usually filled with daring raids on Abyssals carrying gold and silver, pitched battles with monsters of the deep sea, and her being the one to chart uncharted islands and unexplored oceans.

That said, going to bed meant she couldn't partake in any more adventures that day in *real life*, and that was a bit of a downer. More so when it meant she had more time to think about Diamantina. And those rotten Novayans. She could only hope they got theirs as she opened the door to her dorm, only to stop short when she saw her roommate and an aircraft carrier. "Ma'am! Mary Read Kerman, reporting to bed as ordered by Kerriott!", she said, hastily saluting, then using her foot to slide a toy treasure chest under her bed as she neared it while hoping the superior didn't notice. Junipris, she noticed, seemed to be asleep, and it didn't take Mary Read Kerman any time after her salute to realise that Ven must have been tucking Junipris in.

Supplies Wing, 30km from base
While there was no immediate reason to assume the enemy (or incoming allies, as the broadcasts they'd listened in on had confirmed) could see them, given Schneesturm's ability, there was something utterly terrifying, to the fairies tasked with flying in supplies, about passing within spitting distance of the three ships. They were supposed to be a ghost wing, known by no enemy, to drop off supplies and recon gyros, then get the hell back out and pretend to have never left the deck. While the base would be given warning of their arrival, any ships at sea wouldn't, unless the base notified them. Getting shot at, if spotted, was a very real possibility.

In fact, getting shot at when *heard* was a very real possibility.

But none of the autogyros in the wing could spare the fuel to detour far enough. The medium uglies, as the cargo transports were nicknamed, would have been alright, but Schneesturm could only keep her ability up for so long before her deck froze too solid to land on. Or move, for that matter. And waiting for her to thaw would leave the convoy unacceptably open, and almost certainly result in the loss of all transports. Thus it was that the sound of propellers and a handful of high-pitched jets would threaten the safety of the air element.


Turmfalke, on her way to Admiralty

"Geist Ein, this is Turmfalke acting on behalf of Hornissennest. Requesting convoy detach as many ships as you can spare for reinforcements.", Turmfalke, on her own short-range radio and using her Fleigendeschwine as an intermediary, stated, "Abyssal activity has increased in the area. Do not read back. Turmfalke out.". As soon as she signed off, Turmfalke headed toward Admiralty at flank speed. While they should, in theory, have already received the same message she and Hornissennest had, there was a chance that they hadn't, and she needed to make sure that Glory and whomever was on radar duty knew that the aircraft flying toward them were friendlies.

Kreech River
Base Cafe

Kreech, for just a second, felt a burst of pride that her two bit suggestion had been taken to heart. Those in command listening to things she had to say was rare these days, if ever. Still, it was a good feeling and added a small cherry to the top of her good mood. For one, that specter of wrath she had been fearing was just that, a specter. The smile she wore felt a lot less forced for once.

"Hey Carman, we're in the same fleet for tomorrow." What an exciting prospect! She was bombardment element, which wasnt a surprise, given her classification and heavy gun batteries. Her friend would be Escort detail, perfect! It was an excuse for Kreech to stick close to the only ship she actually trusted. "Looks like youll be my escort for the mission." A ghost of doubt crossed the back of her mind, the last ship she'd escorted hadnt come back. With a sudden jerk, Kreech banished the thought from her head.

No, that wasnt Carman's fault, how dare she even think of something so horrible? She had absolute faith in her friend, and the shame that crept up on her cooled her attitude considerably. "I wonder what they're gonna have us do?"

Ri class
Repair tubs

Ri only responded with a soft grunt. Of course he was right, she lived to fight and to kill, with whatever she could whenever she could. But the insults and vitriol he spit like venom was just a waste of effort. There werent any commissars around to send you away if you were caught having thoughts other than maim kill and burn. All abyssal ships were different it seemed. The cruiser once again found herself thankful for the calming effect the bath seemed to have on her.

"How much combat have you actually seen?" She still didnt know the kid's name, and didnt much care to find out, but he was the only entertainment she had at the moment. Most abyssals had been to combat many times in their lives, their nature demanded it, but every now and then youd find someone new, or someone without a gumption to fight. Perhaps this kid was one of those, the way he talked, he had never faced a kanmusu in his life. Though things like that could be deceiving.

Flagship Wo
The ocean

After hours, not to mention tons of ordnance, wasted, Wo called off the bombardment. Anyone on that rock would have been turned to glass along with the rest of that dirtball. She did in fact feel better having loosed a few bombs from her planes, but no body meant the sub was still around. There had been no hydrophone contact since they started their adventure, but Wo knew better than to assume things. Settling around a moderately sized river delta, Wo set her destroyers into a patrol line around the anchorage and instructed them to rotate out every few hours.

Then she found a nice patch of muddy water, and got comfy. Sub hunting could wait until tomorrow. Whoever the bitch was, she wasnt in a hurry to attack, so Wo wasnt in a hurry to chase ghosts. With night falling her planes would be pretty much useless anyway, and a sub who didnt want to be found could very easily use the darkness to their advantage. So, nothing else to do, Wo went to sleep.

Tumbledown
Admiralty

None of that sounded normal at all! But... should she tell Secretary ship Glorious? No, abnormal weather wasnt something she should be bothered about. Tumble quickly decided against venturing out to find her boss, and instead pressed the transmit button, "Roger, I- base copies all, keep alert..." She paused for a second, considering, "It could be an abyssal trick!" She checked the base Radar station, and only read the three ships she was already tracking on the radio.

"Im only tracking three contacts presently, but be careful!" Her voice broke a bit at the thought of the three kanmusu being swallowed up hole by some horrible abyssal monster! Now that was something to tell Glory about! Except... She needed to get a hold of herself, and kept her backside firmly planted on the hard wooden stool.

Glory
In Need of a shower

There was no anger left in Glory. She simply didnt have the energy to summon it if she wanted to. Instead she let out a tired sigh, straightened the bloody rags her uniform had become, and put a hand on Lizbeth's shoulder. The whole display was rather pathetic, but she sympathized dearly. This post had been nothing but heartache and pain from the moment Glory had assumed command. The cruiser would have liked nothing less than to be a crying mess on the floor with Lia.

Unfortunately she held a high office, and that prevented her from having a mental breakdown. At least a public one. She was due for a good cry when she got back to her room. But not before. "If you believe yourself to be combat fit, then by all means join the fleet." She directed her voice at Lia, still attempting to hold herself together, "But if Hornetsnest decides youre unable to fulfill your duties on the high seas, then youre benched until Polar says otherwise." There was no threat in her voice, only tired resignation. Hornet would be the commander on the scene, and if these ships werent up to her standards, she would have the right to keep them at base where they couldnt get any other kanmusu killed.

Carman Fea. Cafe.
I nodded. "Will do."
My dark musings about where I would shove my sword into the next Abyssal I met were alleviated, almost eradicated when I saw the smile on Kreech's lips. Her pride was not unfounded, from what I knew about larger navies, but from my point of view, she looked a lot like our sloops, when they had a proposal, which was accepted by the fleet.
It was cute.
Her excitement about me being her escort element, which was not only dashed in her head by the thought of Diamantina, made me smile.
Her question made me shrug.
"I don't know. Considering, that we have a bombardment element, though, I would wager the guess, that we will be bombarding something.", I replied to Kreech with a small smile, then leaned over to her, "I'll protect you, Kreech. Don't worry."
And if I fail..., I thought to myself, ...I would not return myself.

NFR Cotechino. Somewhere close to base.
We did not have air radars, not yet. We would get them with a retrofit, I knew that... this was the reason for the Carrier Air Patrol, this was the reason why our eyes were peeled.
This was the reason, why we both spotted and heard aircraft, which I never saw with us, but with the enemy - enemy, as in the Selkie, not the Abyssals. They called them greadtóir, which meant something along the lines of 'whisk', as in the cooking utensil.
The Kyrenaians, during the mid-phase of their Decolonization Wars, employed similar machines, but almost exclusively for use with their armies.
The problem was, that they came very, very close to us, but a course projection said, that they were not on an intercept-course. If everything was alright.
Anyway, just as I wanted to report my findings to Passero, she spoke into her radio: "Base, this is Passero - CAP has spotted a force of autogyros on their way towards base, we will meet them in a few seconds. CAP has reported, that they aren't Abyssals, either, but they can't make out the markings.", she reported, cool-headed and nodded to us two - we went to combat stations, had our fairies man the AA-guns, of which we had plenty. Mine and Pelle's main guns were dual-purpose guns, we had 37mm guns, Passero herself wasn't badly equipped either, even without her CAP. I saw her preparing a second group of fighters. "Shall I send them a radio-call for IFF?"
I gulped. This was getting quite interesting, but also potentially very, very scary.
We did not know about the jets, though.

[Sterkistan]

Glory
In Need of a shower

There was no anger left in Glory. She simply didnt have the energy to summon it if she wanted to. Instead she let out a tired sigh, straightened the bloody rags her uniform had become, and put a hand on Lizbeth's shoulder. The whole display was rather pathetic, but she sympathized dearly. This post had been nothing but heartache and pain from the moment Glory had assumed command. The cruiser would have liked nothing less than to be a crying mess on the floor with Lia.

Unfortunately she held a high office, and that prevented her from having a mental breakdown. At least a public one. She was due for a good cry when she got back to her room. But not before. "If you believe yourself to be combat fit, then by all means join the fleet." She directed her voice at Lia, still attempting to hold herself together, "But if Hornetsnest decides youre unable to fulfill your duties on the high seas, then youre benched until Polar says otherwise." There was no threat in her voice, only tired resignation. Hornet would be the commander on the scene, and if these ships werent up to her standards, she would have the right to keep them at base where they couldnt get any other kanmusu killed.

Mary Read Kerman, Destroyer dorms

Bed time. It was at once Mary Read Kerman's most and least favorite part of the day. On the plus side, real life rarely compared to dreams when it came to adventures, a fact helped by having been told many a story by comrades of sea legends and the adventures of her namesake, along with those of other famous pirates and other lords and ladies of the sea. Her dreams were usually filled with daring raids on Abyssals carrying gold and silver, pitched battles with monsters of the deep sea, and her being the one to chart uncharted islands and unexplored oceans.

That said, going to bed meant she couldn't partake in any more adventures that day in *real life*, and that was a bit of a downer. More so when it meant she had more time to think about Diamantina. And those rotten Novayans. She could only hope they got theirs as she opened the door to her dorm, only to stop short when she saw her roommate and an aircraft carrier. "Ma'am! Mary Read Kerman, reporting to bed as ordered by Kerriott!", she said, hastily saluting, then using her foot to slide a toy treasure chest under her bed as she neared it while hoping the superior didn't notice. Junipris, she noticed, seemed to be asleep, and it didn't take Mary Read Kerman any time after her salute to realise that Ven must have been tucking Junipris in.

---

Sterkian Battlegroup

---

SRN Lizbeth-Charlatan, Buschlet-Lia

---

Lizbeth understood the end to the situation, the secretary looked as if she had been run ragged. With the events of the day she wasn't surprised. Lizbeth saluted to Glory, her posture going slightly lax as she lifted the sobbing Lia to her feet, patting her on the head and leading her out of the Admiralty building.
"As you wish ma'am, we will be taking our leave now. My apologies again."

Barely a second after touching the ground outside, Lia gripped Lizbeth in a tight hug. Lia cried into Lizbeth's jacket, but Lizbeth was reluctant to return the hug. A grim expression and downcast gaze were visible indicators of Lizbeth thinking about her own mistake. Lia was usually so reliable and stoic that she had forgotten just how young the cruiser was. She would need to rethink how she treated the cruiser, without making her believe she had lost faith.

Lizbeth placed her hand on the Cruisers back, her other arm sweeping Lia up into a carry, trudging back to the Cafe, she'd need a stiff drink and a feed after this and could guarantee that Lia would need to eat something. Neither had eaten a bite since breakfast. The walk back to the cafe was slower than their exit, and Lia had time to calm herself a bit more. They entered and retook their seats, Lizbeth flagged down the server, Erika once again.
"Apologies for our speedy exit, you wouldn't happen to have saved our meals, would you? If I could get another drink that would be excellent as well, thank you."

---

SRN Ven-Mcalistar, Junipris

---

Ven was welcomed into Junipris' dorm by another destroyer, all prepped for bed and saluting the Aircraft Carrier. Ven smiled at the Destroyer, hoping she hadn't disrupted her sleep preparations.
"Very well done, I'm glad you're organised. I am Ven-Mcalistar, this is Junipris, your new roommate."

Ven took Junipris inside, a slight smile gracing the edges of her mouth when she saw the Destroyer hide a toy treasure chest with her foot. She didn't mind, it was good there was someone who wasn't entirely devoid of fun in Junipris's room. She made sure not to mention the toy though, her superiors may have different opinions on toys. Ven placed the dozing Junipris down on her bed, before poking the side of her face,
"Junipris dear, you need to get ready for bed."

Junipris stirred reluctantly, sitting up and rubbing her eyes, yawning. Ven reached into the bags that had arrived early, pulling out a toothbrush, a towel and pyjamas. Junipris collected them on her way outside to the small bathrooms in the dorms, indicating the pair were well-travelled and knew what to pack for Military deployments. The small bathrooms placed for quick deployments and speedy bedtime preparations were more than enough for Junipris as she prepared for bed.

Ven sat on Junipris's bed, looking around the small room. She looked over to Mary-Read and smiled at the Destroyer, but her eyes indicated she was mulling over something in the back of her mind.
"I do hope our sudden arrival has not caused you any trouble. She may not be especially social tonight, it's been a busy day."

It was shortly after this that Junipris returned, dressed in her pyjamas with damp hair. She bared her teeth for Ven to ensure she had properly cleaned them before she slipped into bed. Ven pushed the covers up around Junipris and reached into her bag again, retrieving a light blue stuffed bear from within. Ven shook the bear back and forth lightly before placing it into Junipris's waiting arms.
Ven leaned down and kissed the Destroyer on the forehead.
"Sleep well, darling."

As Ven left the doorway, she turned toward Mary-Read, bowing.
"Please take care of Junipris, I wish you well."

Ven turned, walking down the stairs to the carrier dorms situated two floors below.

[Jebslund]

Carman Fea. Cafe.
I nodded. "Will do."
My dark musings about where I would shove my sword into the next Abyssal I met were alleviated, almost eradicated when I saw the smile on Kreech's lips. Her pride was not unfounded, from what I knew about larger navies, but from my point of view, she looked a lot like our sloops, when they had a proposal, which was accepted by the fleet.
It was cute.
Her excitement about me being her escort element, which was not only dashed in her head by the thought of Diamantina, made me smile.
Her question made me shrug.
"I don't know. Considering, that we have a bombardment element, though, I would wager the guess, that we will be bombarding something.", I replied to Kreech with a small smile, then leaned over to her, "I'll protect you, Kreech. Don't worry."
And if I fail..., I thought to myself, ...I would not return myself.

Kreech River
Base Cafe

Kreech, for just a second, felt a burst of pride that her two bit suggestion had been taken to heart. Those in command listening to things she had to say was rare these days, if ever. Still, it was a good feeling and added a small cherry to the top of her good mood. For one, that specter of wrath she had been fearing was just that, a specter. The smile she wore felt a lot less forced for once.

"Hey Carman, we're in the same fleet for tomorrow." What an exciting prospect! She was bombardment element, which wasnt a surprise, given her classification and heavy gun batteries. Her friend would be Escort detail, perfect! It was an excuse for Kreech to stick close to the only ship she actually trusted. "Looks like youll be my escort for the mission." A ghost of doubt crossed the back of her mind, the last ship she'd escorted hadnt come back. With a sudden jerk, Kreech banished the thought from her head.

No, that wasnt Carman's fault, how dare she even think of something so horrible? She had absolute faith in her friend, and the shame that crept up on her cooled her attitude considerably. "I wonder what they're gonna have us do?"

Hornissennest, Cafe
Hornissennest was content to allow the two cruisers to have their discussion for the moment as she sipped her beer and finished her meal, using the time to make her own observations of the two and to speculate, privately, on the odds of them ending up as an item. Adelheid and Erika weren't the only shippers on deck, after all, just the most outspoken when out of Hornissennest's earshot. "Something you'll need plenty of rest for. You're both dismissed.", she finally responded, "If you want to have a meal or some beers, feel free. Chicken soup's on, and Kerriott's got a few other options if you're feeling like something else. Otherwise, carry on and make sure you get plenty of rest for tomorrow. We've got a long day ahead of us and some Abyssals to return to the abyss, and I need every ship on that roster in top fighting form.", she continued, a sip of beer punctuating the final remark.

NFR Cotechino. Somewhere close to base.
We did not have air radars, not yet. We would get them with a retrofit, I knew that... this was the reason for the Carrier Air Patrol, this was the reason why our eyes were peeled.
This was the reason, why we both spotted and heard aircraft, which I never saw with us, but with the enemy - enemy, as in the Selkie, not the Abyssals. They called them greadtóir, which meant something along the lines of 'whisk', as in the cooking utensil.
The Kyrenaians, during the mid-phase of their Decolonization Wars, employed similar machines, but almost exclusively for use with their armies.
The problem was, that they came very, very close to us, but a course projection said, that they were not on an intercept-course. If everything was alright.
Anyway, just as I wanted to report my findings to Passero, she spoke into her radio: "Base, this is Passero - CAP has spotted a force of autogyros on their way towards base, we will meet them in a few seconds. CAP has reported, that they aren't Abyssals, either, but they can't make out the markings.", she reported, cool-headed and nodded to us two - we went to combat stations, had our fairies man the AA-guns, of which we had plenty. Mine and Pelle's main guns were dual-purpose guns, we had 37mm guns, Passero herself wasn't badly equipped either, even without her CAP. I saw her preparing a second group of fighters. "Shall I send them a radio-call for IFF?"
I gulped. This was getting quite interesting, but also potentially very, very scary.
We did not know about the jets, though.

Tumbledown
Admiralty

None of that sounded normal at all! But... should she tell Secretary ship Glorious? No, abnormal weather wasnt something she should be bothered about. Tumble quickly decided against venturing out to find her boss, and instead pressed the transmit button, "Roger, I- base copies all, keep alert..." She paused for a second, considering, "It could be an abyssal trick!" She checked the base Radar station, and only read the three ships she was already tracking on the radio.

"Im only tracking three contacts presently, but be careful!" Her voice broke a bit at the thought of the three kanmusu being swallowed up hole by some horrible abyssal monster! Now that was something to tell Glory about! Except... She needed to get a hold of herself, and kept her backside firmly planted on the hard wooden stool.

Supplies Wing, 20km from base
As the aircraft hit the 20km line, there was not a single fairy in the group that wasn't experiencing some degree of apprehension. There was a CAP following them, Lutetiian, by the markings, and Schneesturm would be letting down her ability at any moment so as not to freeze over. That would leave the entire flight, bar the Geisterfledermauses, firmly in their sights, and, with long-range communications absolutely forbidden, they had no way to let her know that the situation had changed. That left Supplies Wing One with a difficult choice: Wait to be asked for an IFF, or give one out unbidden to avoid trouble and risk the Lutetiians putting it out in their long-range comms. The choice was obvious.

"Lutetiian CAP, this is Sage One. We are Jebslunden aircraft on a training flight. Please inform your superiors that we are friendlies.", the fairy stated, using a short-range radio, but broadcasting on all frequencies.

Hopefully, that would be considered good enough. Especially since the cold vanished as quickly as it had arrived.

Supplies Convoy, 60km from base

Schneesturm shivered slightly as she deactivated her ability, ice already having started to form in streaks along her body, just in time for Mord to rush over to Orkan and whisper something to her.

"Three, Seven, Eight, Thirty-One, Abyssal activity has been reported in the area. Check coordinates (...,...) for any sign of ambush. Should you encounter or be contacted by any allies, you are to place yourselves under their command and escort them to safety. Do not read back.", Orkan ordered. As soon as she had, the carrier frowned. The news she'd received from Mord had been... concerning. The base had been attacked, and Hornissennest had asked that any ships that could be spared be given to the base as reinforcements. It would seem the Abyssals already knew the base was coming back to active status, and had decided to try to do something about it and failed, but command would need the base commander's report to be sure. "This is Jebslunder Carrier Orkan, Passero. Do not fire on my aircraft, over.". As she spoke, Orkan put her storm back up, though, this time, it was more for protection than stealth.

At once, Wespennest, Mord, Herde, and Vier Jahreszeiten broke off, heading first for the coordinates given, which put them 10km from base, then messaged the base. "Base, this is Wespennest. Four incoming, we're planning on staying the night. You're getting your reinforcements. Please confirm, over.", she stated. While she waited, her own CAP kept an eye on the surrounding waters, almost hoping to spot an enemy sub to strafe.

---

Sterkian Battlegroup

---

SRN Lizbeth-Charlatan, Buschlet-Lia

---

Lizbeth understood the end to the situation, the secretary looked as if she had been run ragged. With the events of the day she wasn't surprised. Lizbeth saluted to Glory, her posture going slightly lax as she lifted the sobbing Lia to her feet, patting her on the head and leading her out of the Admiralty building.
"As you wish ma'am, we will be taking our leave now. My apologies again."

Barely a second after touching the ground outside, Lia gripped Lizbeth in a tight hug. Lia cried into Lizbeth's jacket, but Lizbeth was reluctant to return the hug. A grim expression and downcast gaze were visible indicators of Lizbeth thinking about her own mistake. Lia was usually so reliable and stoic that she had forgotten just how young the cruiser was. She would need to rethink how she treated the cruiser, without making her believe she had lost faith.

Lizbeth placed her hand on the Cruisers back, her other arm sweeping Lia up into a carry, trudging back to the Cafe, she'd need a stiff drink and a feed after this and could guarantee that Lia would need to eat something. Neither had eaten a bite since breakfast. The walk back to the cafe was slower than their exit, and Lia had time to calm herself a bit more. They entered and retook their seats, Lizbeth flagged down the server, Erika once again.
"Apologies for our speedy exit, you wouldn't happen to have saved our meals, would you? If I could get another drink that would be excellent as well, thank you."

---

SRN Ven-Mcalistar, Junipris

---

Ven was welcomed into Junipris' dorm by another destroyer, all prepped for bed and saluting the Aircraft Carrier. Ven smiled at the Destroyer, hoping she hadn't disrupted her sleep preparations.
"Very well done, I'm glad you're organised. I am Ven-Mcalistar, this is Junipris, your new roommate."

Ven took Junipris inside, a slight smile gracing the edges of her mouth when she saw the Destroyer hide a toy treasure chest with her foot. She didn't mind, it was good there was someone who wasn't entirely devoid of fun in Junipris's room. She made sure not to mention the toy though, her superiors may have different opinions on toys. Ven placed the dozing Junipris down on her bed, before poking the side of her face,
"Junipris dear, you need to get ready for bed."

Junipris stirred reluctantly, sitting up and rubbing her eyes, yawning. Ven reached into the bags that had arrived early, pulling out a toothbrush, a towel and pyjamas. Junipris collected them on her way outside to the small bathrooms in the dorms, indicating the pair were well-travelled and knew what to pack for Military deployments. The small bathrooms placed for quick deployments and speedy bedtime preparations were more than enough for Junipris as she prepared for bed.

Ven sat on Junipris's bed, looking around the small room. She looked over to Mary-Read and smiled at the Destroyer, but her eyes indicated she was mulling over something in the back of her mind.
"I do hope our sudden arrival has not caused you any trouble. She may not be especially social tonight, it's been a busy day."

It was shortly after this that Junipris returned, dressed in her pyjamas with damp hair. She bared her teeth for Ven to ensure she had properly cleaned them before she slipped into bed. Ven pushed the covers up around Junipris and reached into her bag again, retrieving a light blue stuffed bear from within. Ven shook the bear back and forth lightly before placing it into Junipris's waiting arms.
Ven leaned down and kissed the Destroyer on the forehead.
"Sleep well, darling."

As Ven left the doorway, she turned toward Mary-Read, bowing.
"Please take care of Junipris, I wish you well."

Ven turned, walking down the stairs to the carrier dorms situated two floors below.

Erika, cafe

Erika had been just about to wipe down the table the Sterkian ships had been sitting at when two of them, the carrier and battleship that had rushed out, came back and sat down! Erika set down the cleaning supplies at the next table over and rushed back to help them. "Two chicken soups and another Satisfaction in the Arctic? I'll have that right out for you!", she responded after Lizbeth apologised and reordered. "And don't worry about it! It was a little surprising, but I'm not bothered.", she added before heading back to the kitchen. "Kerriott, the two Sterkians are back. Those soups still warm? Also, gonna need another Satisfaction in the Arctic.", she asked. Mere moments later, she was on her way back out with the food and drink.

Mary Read Kerman, Destroyer dorm

"Thank you, Ma'am! Kerriott gets mad if I don't do as I'm ordered to, and Hornissennest doesn't like people being disorganised, so I do my best.", she answered, still standing at attention. Military discipline was a facet of a Jebslunder's life even from an early age when that discipline was encouraged alongside a sense of play and fun. All things had a place, and mature order and childish chaos were no different. Fun was to be had only when the day's tasks were done, and, even then, one did not ignore one's superiors for the sake of fun. The games one played were intended to be fun ways of preparing for adulthood, as games often are, though flights of the more typical fancy weren't discouraged so long as they did not interfere with growth and discipline.

When the carrier mentioned that Junipris might not be social, Mary Read Kerman replied, "That's okay. It's bedtime anyway, so I should probably sleep.", with an added, "Even if I don't really wanna..." under her breath. There were nights she dreamed of a huge battle, where there were shells flying around and submarines as big as whales, but she and the rest of the Jebslunden kanmusu at the base were Abyssals, being fired at by an impossibly big battleship. Even though the dream ended with her catching a whale, Mary Read Kerman didn't like that dream, because it was scary and Hornissennest always ended up bloodied and badly damaged, which meant the enemy in those dreams were truly monstrously powerful. Diamantina's sinking would probably mean she'd have that dream again.

More cheery, though, were Ven's words as she headed out. Words which drew a, "I will! Don't worry about a thing!", and a bow of her own in response.

[Arrstotzka]

AVN Prospekt
Operational Sector Eastern Sea
[Outskirts of the Eastern Sea, approx. 300 miles from Nearest Base

The Ballerina dashed and danced across the horizon of blue. Her feet rising and falling ever so gracefully. Her waltz was unyielding. Every now and then, she'd climb upon a cloud, and jump over to the next. All the while, her face was concealed from the world. Shielded by an aura of light. His stare tightened, and she felt it upon her. Turning to face him, the light faded, revealing her face. Revealing a... Revealing... a...

"Gah!" Prospekt's head of brown hair jerked forward, snapping the chains of his trance that bound his own focus. The young man's commitment to the task at hand, whatever that may be, was usually a force to be reckoned with. He was always one that you could rely on (so long as you didn't let him drift off into a daydreaming session!). But his reliability, sometimes, was his curse. A prime example was right now in the present moment. He was selected to relocate to a new Naval District. Why? Because he was the one they could trust.

At the core of it all was his undying desire to be the helping hand that everyone could count on. He was always happy to execute his orders to the fullest and then some. But the pure heat of the Eastern Sea was beckoning him closer and closer towards reevaluating his morals. Beads of sweat that ran through his thick brown hair fell from his side, crashing into the waters below. His dense grey uniform, combined with the constant task of hauling his stuffed combat pack on his back. The clanking of his hip flask against his belt reminded him to replenish himself. He unhooked the silvery container from his belt loop, raised it, and released a heavy groan as the divinely perfect beverage - water - flooded down his throat, providing him with yet another great sensation of relief as his thirst was extinguished.

Prospekt was content with being tasked with this mission. But he couldn't help but mutter about the plight of this environment. "It's too damn hot... How can it even be this hot anywhere on Earth?" He rambled. His dependability was strong, but his habit of daydreaming was stronger. When he wasn't working, he was staring into the sky. Muttering, or whispering, to himself was universally subsequent when his mind wandered. He never saw the harm in it. The worst that could happen was maybe he'd receive a few inquisitive looks from those who saw the brown-haired giant moving his lips while making virtually no sound, and weighing in at a displacement of 59,150 tons, he certainly was a giant.

Most times his imagination took him to pleasant, obscure, and distant places. Sometimes it took him to closer places. Ones that weren't so pleasant. His memories. His time in the Kara Sea was not something he liked recalling. The Battle of the Severny Coast. Sometimes he'd gaze back into the fire that burned his skin, the smoke that choked his lungs, or the deafening scream of tearing metal - the compatriots he lost.

But the battle did not come without its benefits for the ship. Amidst the crushing defeat of the Arstotzkan Navy, Prospekt was quick to be tasked with the role providing emergency aid to other ships who had been critically damaged. Thanks to this experience, Prospekt found a part-time passion of sorts - learning how to treat wounds on the battlefield - that would benefit him as a key skill during combat.

He released a strap on his bag and let it swing around to his front as he continued his pace forward. His hand plunged into the pack. "Now, where did you go?...." He riddled. Without looking, his fingers sifted through metal utilities, plastic bottles, his extra flask, until finally he felt the thick folded paper. Retrieving the map, he studied it with intent. As his eyes scanned it thoroughly, he finally sounded his diagnosis.

"Not too far..." It wouldn't be too long now. He was nearing the Naval District. Soon enough, he'd be there... And then maybe he could get out of this cursed heat!

[Fantrum]

Polar
Speaking with the enemy

Having stayed long enough for the guards to post, a pair of cruisers from the look of them, Polar watched apprehensively as one of her patients woke up. She wanted to leave her for the Military policemen, she wasnt a kanmusu, that much was obvious. But still, it was her duty to at least follow up, however distasteful she found the query.

Walking up behind the ghostly white girl, Polar crossed her arms. "Youve got a lot to be thankful for, thats for sure." The girl was stark naked, and apparently didnt seem to mind. Nudity didnt bother Polar in the slightest, her medical background had long since desensitized her to such childish things. "You can start with Hornet not putting you down like a sick dog, and me for keeping them from sticking a pin in you." For someone who was mostly dead when they arrived, she looked perfectly fine now. The miracles of a nice soak in the repair booth, Polar supposed.

Without reaching or attempting to touch, Polar did a once over on the submarine, "Everything looks like it healed the right way, come here and lets find you a shirt or something." There where plenty of towels around, and lacking anything else, Polar threw it to So.

Kreech River
Dithering

The cold shame Kreech felt only intensified when Carman fervently reaffirmed her desire to protect Kreech. She shouldnt even consider such horrible thoughts! She resolved to keep those from her mind at all times going forward. There wasnt anything that could make her doubt her best friend. Except herself, but that was unavoidable and she was working on that. Of course immediately after the cold was washed away with a flush as Kreech registered how close Carman had gotten.

Attempting to keep her calm composure, Kreech deflected, "Youre probably right, but thats just what they call us whenever a ship with big-ish guns is in a squadron." She mussed for just a second, "Bombardment is just a fancy way of saying escort with big guns." It was only a half joke, she didnt really expect to do much more than shoot at air planes in the coming fight, which was fine, airplanes were easy... sometimes... Not really... The slightly nervous twitch Kreech felt on her lips had escaped her, and betrayed her true feelings.

She snapped back to reality at her boss' words, "O-of course ma'am, thank you!" She'd just finished sleeping all day, but still felt tired, as she normally did after standing a twenty four hour post. No doubt another round of nap time would fix that right up, but she didnt feel the need to leave Carman's side just yet. "So whats next? I could use a little fuel, if Im honest with myself."

Glory
Going to bed

The Secretary ship watched them trudge down the hallway and go out the door. She sighed and waited a bit longer, just in case someone else had something for her, and then stepped into the hallway herself. With a click her office door locked behind her and she let a ragged smile come across her face. Tomorrow Hornet would get her revenge, the Abyssals would get theirs, and she could finally take a fucking shower. It was amazing how that small thing held such value to her.

No sooner had she let the water hit her did her own waterworks start. Finally she could let out the pain and frustration she felt. It had all been her fault after all. Her first command had amounted to an utter disaster. A ship was dead, several more were the cause, and absolutely no one respected her enough to even knock before entering her office.

She was a failure alright. For what seemed like an eternity she sat under the hot stream, letting it flow around her long after all the blood and grime was gone. There was a mark on her soul that no water would remove. She supposed she'd just have to live with it. Finally she drew herself out, soaking wet and eyes puffy, changed into her silky nightware, and set an alarm before finally settling down to a torturous slumber.

Tumbledown
Confused

Tumble tried to hear what they had just said again. They werent Abyssal but they didnt have markings... She flipped through the duty roster and saw that no aircraft carriers were out, combined with the fact that the runways were still fubar... Those were defiantly not District planes! "B-base copies!" She stuttered out, "Be advised, the district has no aircraft out, be careful guys!" She wasnt supposed to talk like that on the radio, but couldnt really help it. She was terrified for them! What a scary situation! Even safe and sound in this little room, Tumble felt the hairs on her neck stand straight up.

Cruiser Ne Class
Abyssal PATRON 15.8

It was just about time to call it a day. With all the abyssal activity in the sector there really wasnt any need to chance a night engagement, not yet anyway. Ne's little squadron wasnt massive, just a collection of destroyers and light cruisers numbering about a dozen not including herself, but they were out hunting anyway. They didnt have the benefit of a Wo flagship, there just wasnt enough of them to go around. But Ne would make do. Between herself, another Ri class, and her light cruiser sisters, she had enough recon planes to ensure their vision well past the horizon.

In fact, it was one of these patrol aircraft that had radioed back, just as the flagship was calling a halt, and informed her that there was a lone kanmusu just out all by his lonesome. Of course Ne thought this was strange, but his size and description put him as a battleship. Bastard probably thought he could handle himself without an escort. Cool anger flowed through Ne's veins almost as the thought hit her. Sure none of their guns could do more than annoy and blind him, but she had something just for his type. Barking through the growing twilight, she instructed all ships to ready their torpedoes and to fan out in staggered line.

If he was smart hed call for help immediately, if he was stupid hed attempt to fight. Then hed be dead. Her fleet of small fast ships could close with him much faster than he could run away, and when they were within five miles, that would be that. Of course the hard part was overrunning his guns. Since he had no escort to run interference, that should be easy.

Ne smiled to herself. This would be too easy. In her mind however, she ticked off the mileage, they were about thirty miles from their prey now, outside all kinds of weapons ranges, but they were closing fast, being on a perpendicular course from him. He was likely to spot them any moment now. "Ahead flank, keep your distance and get into torpedo range." Together all thirteen abyssal ships bore down on the lone battleship.

[Arrstotzka]

Prospekt

She was long gone now. There were no clouds for her to dance upon. Or rather, there were no visible clouds for her to dance on. Night was practically upon Prospekt. Tints of orange and pink were scattered along the horizon where the sun was setting. The day was almost at its end and so was his energy. His eyes begged to be shut. "Sorry, boys." His murmuring was regretful, "not yet... not yet."

Just as he raised a clammy palm to rub them back into submission, his attention was reclaimed by the horizon. But it wasn't the beauty of the concluding sunset that drew his focus. It was something rising from it. A group of at least twelve ships, mostly cruisers. An ambiguous speck had risen from among them and was drawing near him. At first it seemed like an insect. Prospekt cocked his eyebrow in rabid fascination. It didn't have wings. Its top was luminescent with a faint dim blue glow that became ever more pronounced in the now rapidly-approaching black of night.

It was much closer now, and any sunlight was gone. From its front, a sort of beak-shaped appendage jutted out from its front. It was some sort of plane. Stopping to think, his drowsiness had been vanquished. Prospekt realized it was most certainly within range of his transmitter and was filled with further interest. "Now just who might you be?" He raised two fingers to his right temple and placed a light pressure.

"Unidentified airplane, this is Prospekt, could you give me some identification? Out." The pressure on his radio released as he awaited a response. Nothing. Maybe they didn't hear him? "Nearby airplane, this is Prospekt, what's your callsign? Out." Still nothing.

Abruptly, this 'nearby airplane,' begin to deviate. Soon, it had performed a total one-eighty, and returned in the direction of the group of ships. And with that, Prospekt's eyes widened with disturbance. A great unease gripped at his soul and the gears in his heart skipped a beat. It was a spotter plane! The ships were abyssals!

Immediately, he readied himself. Prospekt was big, and he knew this. But what he knew better is that no enemy is to be underestimated. He learned that in Severny, and he sure wasn't going to forget it now. He knew what he had to do. His hand shot back up to his temple. "Mayday! Mayday! This is Prospekt! I've been engaged by and Abyssal squadron. I'm gonna need some help here... Out!"

[The Selkie]

Supplies Wing, 20km from base
As the aircraft hit the 20km line, there was not a single fairy in the group that wasn't experiencing some degree of apprehension. There was a CAP following them, Lutetiian, by the markings, and Schneesturm would be letting down her ability at any moment so as not to freeze over. That would leave the entire flight, bar the Geisterfledermauses, firmly in their sights, and, with long-range communications absolutely forbidden, they had no way to let her know that the situation had changed. That left Supplies Wing One with a difficult choice: Wait to be asked for an IFF, or give one out unbidden to avoid trouble and risk the Lutetiians putting it out in their long-range comms. The choice was obvious.

"Lutetiian CAP, this is Sage One. We are Jebslunden aircraft on a training flight. Please inform your superiors that we are friendlies.", the fairy stated, using a short-range radio, but broadcasting on all frequencies.

Hopefully, that would be considered good enough. Especially since the cold vanished as quickly as it had arrived.

Supplies Convoy, 60km from base

Schneesturm shivered slightly as she deactivated her ability, ice already having started to form in streaks along her body, just in time for Mord to rush over to Orkan and whisper something to her.

"Three, Seven, Eight, Thirty-One, Abyssal activity has been reported in the area. Check coordinates (...,...) for any sign of ambush. Should you encounter or be contacted by any allies, you are to place yourselves under their command and escort them to safety. Do not read back.", Orkan ordered. As soon as she had, the carrier frowned. The news she'd received from Mord had been... concerning. The base had been attacked, and Hornissennest had asked that any ships that could be spared be given to the base as reinforcements. It would seem the Abyssals already knew the base was coming back to active status, and had decided to try to do something about it and failed, but command would need the base commander's report to be sure. "This is Jebslunder Carrier Orkan, Passero. Do not fire on my aircraft, over.". As she spoke, Orkan put her storm back up, though, this time, it was more for protection than stealth.

At once, Wespennest, Mord, Herde, and Vier Jahreszeiten broke off, heading first for the coordinates given, which put them 10km from base, then messaged the base. "Base, this is Wespennest. Four incoming, we're planning on staying the night. You're getting your reinforcements. Please confirm, over.", she stated. While she waited, her own CAP kept an eye on the surrounding waters, almost hoping to spot an enemy sub to strafe.

Polar
Speaking with the enemy

Having stayed long enough for the guards to post, a pair of cruisers from the look of them, Polar watched apprehensively as one of her patients woke up. She wanted to leave her for the Military policemen, she wasnt a kanmusu, that much was obvious. But still, it was her duty to at least follow up, however distasteful she found the query.

Walking up behind the ghostly white girl, Polar crossed her arms. "Youve got a lot to be thankful for, thats for sure." The girl was stark naked, and apparently didnt seem to mind. Nudity didnt bother Polar in the slightest, her medical background had long since desensitized her to such childish things. "You can start with Hornet not putting you down like a sick dog, and me for keeping them from sticking a pin in you." For someone who was mostly dead when they arrived, she looked perfectly fine now. The miracles of a nice soak in the repair booth, Polar supposed.

Without reaching or attempting to touch, Polar did a once over on the submarine, "Everything looks like it healed the right way, come here and lets find you a shirt or something." There where plenty of towels around, and lacking anything else, Polar threw it to So.

Kreech River
Dithering

The cold shame Kreech felt only intensified when Carman fervently reaffirmed her desire to protect Kreech. She shouldnt even consider such horrible thoughts! She resolved to keep those from her mind at all times going forward. There wasnt anything that could make her doubt her best friend. Except herself, but that was unavoidable and she was working on that. Of course immediately after the cold was washed away with a flush as Kreech registered how close Carman had gotten.

Attempting to keep her calm composure, Kreech deflected, "Youre probably right, but thats just what they call us whenever a ship with big-ish guns is in a squadron." She mussed for just a second, "Bombardment is just a fancy way of saying escort with big guns." It was only a half joke, she didnt really expect to do much more than shoot at air planes in the coming fight, which was fine, airplanes were easy... sometimes... Not really... The slightly nervous twitch Kreech felt on her lips had escaped her, and betrayed her true feelings.

She snapped back to reality at her boss' words, "O-of course ma'am, thank you!" She'd just finished sleeping all day, but still felt tired, as she normally did after standing a twenty four hour post. No doubt another round of nap time would fix that right up, but she didnt feel the need to leave Carman's side just yet. "So whats next? I could use a little fuel, if Im honest with myself."

Glory
Going to bed

The Secretary ship watched them trudge down the hallway and go out the door. She sighed and waited a bit longer, just in case someone else had something for her, and then stepped into the hallway herself. With a click her office door locked behind her and she let a ragged smile come across her face. Tomorrow Hornet would get her revenge, the Abyssals would get theirs, and she could finally take a fucking shower. It was amazing how that small thing held such value to her.

No sooner had she let the water hit her did her own waterworks start. Finally she could let out the pain and frustration she felt. It had all been her fault after all. Her first command had amounted to an utter disaster. A ship was dead, several more were the cause, and absolutely no one respected her enough to even knock before entering her office.

She was a failure alright. For what seemed like an eternity she sat under the hot stream, letting it flow around her long after all the blood and grime was gone. There was a mark on her soul that no water would remove. She supposed she'd just have to live with it. Finally she drew herself out, soaking wet and eyes puffy, changed into her silky nightware, and set an alarm before finally settling down to a torturous slumber.

Tumbledown
Confused

Tumble tried to hear what they had just said again. They werent Abyssal but they didnt have markings... She flipped through the duty roster and saw that no aircraft carriers were out, combined with the fact that the runways were still fubar... Those were defiantly not District planes! "B-base copies!" She stuttered out, "Be advised, the district has no aircraft out, be careful guys!" She wasnt supposed to talk like that on the radio, but couldnt really help it. She was terrified for them! What a scary situation! Even safe and sound in this little room, Tumble felt the hairs on her neck stand straight up.

Cruiser Ne Class
Abyssal PATRON 15.8

It was just about time to call it a day. With all the abyssal activity in the sector there really wasnt any need to chance a night engagement, not yet anyway. Ne's little squadron wasnt massive, just a collection of destroyers and light cruisers numbering about a dozen not including herself, but they were out hunting anyway. They didnt have the benefit of a Wo flagship, there just wasnt enough of them to go around. But Ne would make do. Between herself, another Ri class, and her light cruiser sisters, she had enough recon planes to ensure their vision well past the horizon.

In fact, it was one of these patrol aircraft that had radioed back, just as the flagship was calling a halt, and informed her that there was a lone kanmusu just out all by his lonesome. Of course Ne thought this was strange, but his size and description put him as a battleship. Bastard probably thought he could handle himself without an escort. Cool anger flowed through Ne's veins almost as the thought hit her. Sure none of their guns could do more than annoy and blind him, but she had something just for his type. Barking through the growing twilight, she instructed all ships to ready their torpedoes and to fan out in staggered line.

If he was smart hed call for help immediately, if he was stupid hed attempt to fight. Then hed be dead. Her fleet of small fast ships could close with him much faster than he could run away, and when they were within five miles, that would be that. Of course the hard part was overrunning his guns. Since he had no escort to run interference, that should be easy.

Ne smiled to herself. This would be too easy. In her mind however, she ticked off the mileage, they were about thirty miles from their prey now, outside all kinds of weapons ranges, but they were closing fast, being on a perpendicular course from him. He was likely to spot them any moment now. "Ahead flank, keep your distance and get into torpedo range." Together all thirteen abyssal ships bore down on the lone battleship.

Carman Fea, Base Cafe.
I nodded to our boss, thankfulness in my eyes, then turned back to Kreech.
I was maybe a bit close, but we were talking.
"Then let's get some fuel and food into us. A day looks better with something warm inside of yourself.", I said with a small nod, "I'll go for chicken soup and tea... but before we do." I rose, looked over to where the Sterkistanis were sitting. I could feel the fairies inside of me, the remains of Dia's crew asking, almost begging, to get back to their countrymen as quickly as possible. "I have something to take care of."
I smiled at Kreech, put my hand on her shoulder and squeezed softly.
"This is a battle I alone must face, Kreech.", I told her, "Cheer for me!"
And with that, I smiled at her and went off to that battle, towards the Sterkistani Shipgirls. I cleared my throat, once I stood over their table.
"My apologies.", I began, "Would you mind me sitting with you for a few minutes? We have a few things to discuss." I let a beat pass. "It pertains Diamantina."

NFR Cotechino. Somewhere close to base.
The... polite request to not fire on the aircraft was received by both Passero and us, as well as a report of the CAP, that the leader of the formation contacted them and told them, that they would very much appreciate not being shot at.
I saw my carrier smirk.
It was almost cute.
"Passero, Orkan. Sottoporre.", Passero confirmed and smiled, letting the radio go dead. I saw another effect of the request: Our planes were retreating, taking up formation over us again.
There was, however, the matter of the group of shipgirls from Jebslund separating from their convoy...
Hm. More reinforcements.
Things were getting interesting.
"Passero, Base, the cold is receeding. This is weird.", my carrier replied, "We will be at base in an hour. Please keep the tea hot!"
I smiled. Tea... freshly brewed preferably... Great Guarding, this would be wonderful!

[Offer Erapia]

Abyssmal So, earlier in the day, repair bay

So was in the repair tub all her wounds had fully healed. Even her bluish color had come back and her eyes weren't dark and baggy. The small abyssmal pondered on what to do now all thankfulness aside she was in enemy territory. would they torture her for information? would they kick her out? a million questions raced through her mind at once it made her head hurt. So took a deep breath and wiggled her toes in the water trying to distract herself from reality of the situation. it was starting to work when a voice chimed in behind her the startled so jumped and slowly turned around to see girl standing there looking at her.

"s-so is thankful...f-for...your service"

she stuttered fearing of the kanmusu presence. So hoped she wasn't the type to be aggressive and demanding she had always been scared of big groups and other people in general. So guessed it was the drawbacks of being a submarine but she couldn't help that.

"huh?"

So said confused when polar mentioned something about a shirt. if So remembered correctly shirts are what kanmusu usually wear nearly everyday. the small framed girl was about to step out of the bath when she looked down realizing she was naked. although it didn't bother her being nude she wondered if there were others who would mind. she looked up at the girl who she guessed was the medic or nurse.

"So is naked, is it ok if I get out?"

she asked tilting her head quizzically. but she also wanted to tread lightly and So felt like asking questions and being given permission to do things was the best way to avoid being detained or kicked out.

"wont others see?'

she asked again curiously.

Mordred and Caroline, base cafe

the busty, big battleship sat down along with her smaller carrier companion. once they were seated they began to chat about old times and older friends they sat for a while catching up. after a while longer Mordred began to get to the serious questions.

"so, how was your trip, you didn't get spotted by abyssals did you?"

unlike her previous mood this new one of hers was serious as if here personality did a one eighty. the last thing Mordred wanted was one of her dearest friends to be put in harms way, her biggest fear had always been that her friend would sink in her midst and there was nothing she could have done about it. Caroline, who was used to this behavior, reassured her she wasn't tailed or followed and that she certainly wasn't engaged. Caroline also made it known that although she was small the ship and spirit of the ship she embodied was not and that she could very well handle her own in a fight.

"that's a relief, really, it is"

Mordred said sitting back and relaxing a little there was a small pause of silence before Caroline asked a question of her own. her soft and smooth voice chimed out as she spoke.

"so how has life been on the base so far?"

Caroline was an addict to acquiring information but she couldn't help it the nature of her and her ship would not let her do anything big without well endowed information. the small carrier leaned in intrigued to what she might hear.

"its been pretty boring, honestly, I was hoping we could get attacked today so I could finally fire my guns at something."

Caroline nodded and smiled she was actually glad life at the base was pretty relaxed it would mean she could rest easy for a while longer. while she listened her stomach heaved a growl. her soft, pale, porcelain like cheeks reddened with embarrassment. on the other hand Mordred laughed she even snorted once or twice she finally calmed herself and handed Caroline a menu that was at the table.

"if you were hungry why didn't you say so?'

she said smiling while Caroline hungrily groomed the menu.

[Sterkistan]

Erika, cafe

Erika had been just about to wipe down the table the Sterkian ships had been sitting at when two of them, the carrier and battleship that had rushed out, came back and sat down! Erika set down the cleaning supplies at the next table over and rushed back to help them. "Two chicken soups and another Satisfaction in the Arctic? I'll have that right out for you!", she responded after Lizbeth apologised and reordered. "And don't worry about it! It was a little surprising, but I'm not bothered.", she added before heading back to the kitchen. "Kerriott, the two Sterkians are back. Those soups still warm? Also, gonna need another Satisfaction in the Arctic.", she asked. Mere moments later, she was on her way back out with the food and drink.

Mary Read Kerman, Destroyer dorm

"Thank you, Ma'am! Kerriott gets mad if I don't do as I'm ordered to, and Hornissennest doesn't like people being disorganised, so I do my best.", she answered, still standing at attention. Military discipline was a facet of a Jebslunder's life even from an early age when that discipline was encouraged alongside a sense of play and fun. All things had a place, and mature order and childish chaos were no different. Fun was to be had only when the day's tasks were done, and, even then, one did not ignore one's superiors for the sake of fun. The games one played were intended to be fun ways of preparing for adulthood, as games often are, though flights of the more typical fancy weren't discouraged so long as they did not interfere with growth and discipline.

When the carrier mentioned that Junipris might not be social, Mary Read Kerman replied, "That's okay. It's bedtime anyway, so I should probably sleep.", with an added, "Even if I don't really wanna..." under her breath. There were nights she dreamed of a huge battle, where there were shells flying around and submarines as big as whales, but she and the rest of the Jebslunden kanmusu at the base were Abyssals, being fired at by an impossibly big battleship. Even though the dream ended with her catching a whale, Mary Read Kerman didn't like that dream, because it was scary and Hornissennest always ended up bloodied and badly damaged, which meant the enemy in those dreams were truly monstrously powerful. Diamantina's sinking would probably mean she'd have that dream again.

More cheery, though, were Ven's words as she headed out. Words which drew a, "I will! Don't worry about a thing!", and a bow of her own in response.

Carman Fea, Base Cafe.
I nodded to our boss, thankfulness in my eyes, then turned back to Kreech.
I was maybe a bit close, but we were talking.
"Then let's get some fuel and food into us. A day looks better with something warm inside of yourself.", I said with a small nod, "I'll go for chicken soup and tea... but before we do." I rose, looked over to where the Sterkistanis were sitting. I could feel the fairies inside of me, the remains of Dia's crew asking, almost begging, to get back to their countrymen as quickly as possible. "I have something to take care of."
I smiled at Kreech, put my hand on her shoulder and squeezed softly.
"This is a battle I alone must face, Kreech.", I told her, "Cheer for me!"
And with that, I smiled at her and went off to that battle, towards the Sterkistani Shipgirls. I cleared my throat, once I stood over their table.
"My apologies.", I began, "Would you mind me sitting with you for a few minutes? We have a few things to discuss." I let a beat pass. "It pertains Diamantina."

---

Sterkian Battlegroup

---

SRN Lizbeth-Charlatan, Buschlet-Lia, Cafe

---

Lizbeth gave a slight bow to Erika as she returned with their meals and her second drink.
Thank you very much, that's excellent. Apologies again for the hassle.

Lizbeth took a mouthful of her drink, placing the glass down a tad rougher than she should. What a fucking start, already her subordinates were mouthing off at the Secretary, god forbid if the Admiral made an appearance. Her thoughts were put aside by her stomach crying for fuel. She dug into her meal quickly but refused to be described as 'animalistic' by those who were watching on. Lia was much more reluctant to eat, she felt horrible. She would need to apologise to Glory profusely in their next interactions and work to regain her trust.
A glance at Lizbeth, who shot a glare at the cruiser, before directing her gaze down to her meal told her that Lizbeth had enough of her behaviour. There'd be consequences for her gross insubordination, and she knew the Sterkian Capital ships would be more than happy to dish out whatever punishment she saw fit upon the cruiser. That was just how the circle of accountability worked. Lia slowly ate her meal, satiating her hunger, but not the sick feeling she had inside.

The arrival of a Selkie ship at their table was surprising to say the least. Both ships sat up, and after hearing the request of the Light Cruiser and it's importance.
Lizbeth spoke up in response to the request by Carman Fea. Pulling a chair out for her to sit.
Yes, yes, of course, take a seat. As long as you need.

---

SRN Junipris, Room 400

---

Junipris rolled over sleepily, looking curiously at Mary Read, the treasure chest hastily stashed under the bed had caught her interest.
"Do you like pirates?" She asked sleepily, ready to pass out at the drop of a hat.

---

Ven-Mcalister, Base Grounds

---

Ven made a quick stop in her room to collect an old breech-loaded rifle. It needed cleaning, and she and Lizbeth would need to have a quick debrief before bed. They were down Junipris, she wouldn't be able to fight until she had finished mourning and was mentally stable, but the hurting would never stop. As she sat between the dorms and the Cafe, she got to cleaning the rifle, running a brush down the barrel and cleaning the loading mechanism.
She thought about Junipris, the girl was stronger than she appeared, almost foolishly desperate to be an adult. Ven thought about her younger years, her time as a battlecruiser with her sisters. And now as an aircraft carrier, alone. She yearned for simpler times.

[Fantrum]

Polar
The docks

Having served in her role of base surgeon for years, Polar was familiar with pretty much all the personality types. This abyssal submarine was no different. Kanmusu or otherwise, those that spent most of their time underwater were all fairly similar. They were pale, and preferred to keep to themselves. This one was especially skittish considering she had just brushed very closely with death and woken up in the merciful arms of her enemy.

Polar couldnt really blame her. Then again, it wasnt like she was going to be put against a wall. Polar fished out a cigarette and lit it up. The choking blue fumes filled her lungs in a soothing way, the nicotine flooding her head. "Yeah youre welcome about that, its my job after all." She took another puff holding the acrid smoke in as long as she could before blowing it out in a huff. "Youre not going to have to worry, as far as I know, youre only allowed to go as far as where youre being quartered." Ponderously she retrieved a towel and held it out for So, "Being a prisoner of war, youre not allowed to freely roam the base. But Ill come with you to your room, there are probably already guards posted there."

Polar spared a glance at the other Abyssal nameship, knocked out in her repair tub. She was going to take a lot longer to recover from her experience. Whatever, she was on the road to healing. Sucking the last bit of life from her cigarette, Polar opened the door and motioned one of the cruiser guards over. "Lets go then."

Ne Class

This really was too easy. Perhaps she'd have something to impress Ta about when she returned to port? The sinking of any Kanmusu was something to revel in, but this was a full battleship! Surely Ta would bestow an upgrade upon her if she could demonstrate leadership capability. With these high hopes, Ne ordered all ships within range to begin ranging salvos. Chances were, none of her guns could even scratch his paint, but they might get lucky and pin a disabling shot on something delicate. You never knew what you could get.

One of her fellow cruisers pipped up, "Hes started to squawk on an open freak. Maybe we should break off, before they send him help." Ne did the math in her head, they were gaining on him quickly, and could launch their torpedoes at a range of ten kilometers. Meaning they'd be in range in ten minutes. But to ensure hits they needed to close to within five, which would take twenty to thirty minutes. There wasnt anything Ne knew about that could possibly cover the distance in time to save the battleship. Not before they'd had their way with him and made a hasty retreat, but it would be a close thing.

"Tell the Destroyers to break formation and engage independently, two will fire their torpedoes as soon as they are within range, the rest will hold fire until they close to point blank range. Larger ships will continue at best possible speed and suppress his secondary battery. We can do this, Ta expects nothing less!" Her voice was full of young ambition, her eagerness to please drove her forward, and while the Destroyers increased their speed and sprinted ahead of the formation, Ne opened up with her main battery.

Kreech River

Smiling, Kreech watched Carman go. She'd be lying if she said she didnt feel a tad bit snubbed, but she knew Carman wouldnt have turned her away like that unless it was something important. Deciding to trust her friend, Kreech sat to wait. She wanted to eat, but the thought of her mission tomorrow and talking with her boss had robbed her of an appetite. She'd probably be ravenous in the morning, but that was future Kreech's problem. Instead she placed the order Carman had said she'd wanted, and collected a glass of water for herself.

They'd never gotten to those anti air drills, the cruiser reflected, that was probably important. It was far too late now to try though, not with an important mission on the horizon tomorrow. Things would work out, they had to, but there was a nagging feeling at the back of Kreech's mind. A sort of dark foreboding that set her stomach rioting. Hopefully things would work out, she amended.

Tumbledown

"Uh... base copies?" Tumble really had no way to express the strangeness of what was being relayed back to her. So she contented herself with writing it all down in her logbook instead. This was something someone with more tonnage could deal with. She'd spent her evening worried sick about the whole mess, but it had quickly tired her out. So instead she'd switched to frantically scribbling notes on what was happening so Glory could read it whenever she came on deck in the morning. "Youre cleared all the way in, base out." Tumble thumbed the transmitter and sat back with an exhausted sigh. These new ships were going to be the death of her.

[The Selkie]

---

Sterkian Battlegroup

---

SRN Lizbeth-Charlatan, Buschlet-Lia, Cafe

---

Lizbeth gave a slight bow to Erika as she returned with their meals and her second drink.
Thank you very much, that's excellent. Apologies again for the hassle.

Lizbeth took a mouthful of her drink, placing the glass down a tad rougher than she should. What a fucking start, already her subordinates were mouthing off at the Secretary, god forbid if the Admiral made an appearance. Her thoughts were put aside by her stomach crying for fuel. She dug into her meal quickly but refused to be described as 'animalistic' by those who were watching on. Lia was much more reluctant to eat, she felt horrible. She would need to apologise to Glory profusely in their next interactions and work to regain her trust.
A glance at Lizbeth, who shot a glare at the cruiser, before directing her gaze down to her meal told her that Lizbeth had enough of her behaviour. There'd be consequences for her gross insubordination, and she knew the Sterkian Capital ships would be more than happy to dish out whatever punishment she saw fit upon the cruiser. That was just how the circle of accountability worked. Lia slowly ate her meal, satiating her hunger, but not the sick feeling she had inside.

The arrival of a Selkie ship at their table was surprising to say the least. Both ships sat up, and after hearing the request of the Light Cruiser and it's importance.
Lizbeth spoke up in response to the request by Carman Fea. Pulling a chair out for her to sit.
Yes, yes, of course, take a seat. As long as you need.

---

SRN Junipris, Room 400

---

Junipris rolled over sleepily, looking curiously at Mary Read, the treasure chest hastily stashed under the bed had caught her interest.
"Do you like pirates?" She asked sleepily, ready to pass out at the drop of a hat.

---

Ven-Mcalister, Base Grounds

---

Ven made a quick stop in her room to collect an old breech-loaded rifle. It needed cleaning, and she and Lizbeth would need to have a quick debrief before bed. They were down Junipris, she wouldn't be able to fight until she had finished mourning and was mentally stable, but the hurting would never stop. As she sat between the dorms and the Cafe, she got to cleaning the rifle, running a brush down the barrel and cleaning the loading mechanism.
She thought about Junipris, the girl was stronger than she appeared, almost foolishly desperate to be an adult. Ven thought about her younger years, her time as a battlecruiser with her sisters. And now as an aircraft carrier, alone. She yearned for simpler times.

Carman Fea, Base Cafe.
I nodded and sat down, even if only for a moment and politeness.
There was no smile, no grin, no nothing.
I took in air.
"I was Diamantina's escort today.", I began, my voice laden with all the blame I still assigned to myself, orders be damned, "When she sank, well... I picked up surviving fairies. I guess, they would feel more welcome with other Sterkistani ships."
I put my hand on the table and tapped twice with my finger.
My own fairies came out first, a small detachment, forming an honour guard, then the fairies from the battleship, which was sunk today. They were not many and some were wounded, but they had a certain fire in their eyes.
They wanted to avenge Diamantina.
They would get more chances to do that with the new arrivals then with me, I felt.
I waited.

[Offer Erapia]

So class submarine, repair bay


So watched as the girl lit her cigarette and took a long drag. She didn't know what she was doing do like usual she slightly tilted her head in curiousity. So wondered if it was to help with nerves or maybe it was a type of thing where it heals you but as far a so knows polar was unharmed. But this didn't keep her mind from wondering so had so many questions and not enough answers.

When polar handed her a towel so took it and wrapped it around herself hoping she was doing it the right way. Making sure she was well covered the small abysmal took a few wobbly steps. She had always been clumsy outside of water her weak legs not used to supporting her own weight. She took another step and was not surprised when she slipped. Her weak legs gave out and she crashed to the floor.

"sorry!!"

She said hurriedly and stood on her shaky legs once again. So couldn't show it but she was indeed embarrassed she fixed her towel and, not knowing what to do, she followed polar.

"C-can..you show so her room"

She said cautiously.


Jason, on his way to admirality


Jason saw the roster posted outside of admirality just down the hall. He would be on patrol and if he was going to be honest he was rather excited. But he needed to know what time the mission was going to start. He had always been the one to gather information he wanted to be ready when the time came.

Tearing his eyes from the laminated paper he walked down the hall to the door of the admirality. He raised his hand and knocked diligently he took a half step back and waited. He didn't want to intrude that would be bad manners on his part. He knew that whoever ran the base was a busy person and probably had thier hands full. So the heavy cruiser didn't want to be a nuisance.

"Hello"

He called out in a hospitable tone.

"I don't mean to intrude but I couldn't help see my name on the roster and would like to know what time the mission started."

He said and waited to be answered. His patients were already low do to the fact he wanted to fight abysmals it was in his blood as a ship killer to want to fight. He was a brawler and he was good at it. But the peace and quiet and the boredom was starting to wear at him. His guns did itch to be fired even his fairies were begging to be unleashed on the sorry suckers that opposed him.

While deep in thought Jason wondered if he even would come across abysmals on his patrol. The part of the roster did mention something about prisoners but to Jason knowledge he didn't think there were prisoners on the island. He could only hope and wait.

"Guess we'll see"

He muttered to himself.

[Jebslund]

Glory
Going to bed

The Secretary ship watched them trudge down the hallway and go out the door. She sighed and waited a bit longer, just in case someone else had something for her, and then stepped into the hallway herself. With a click her office door locked behind her and she let a ragged smile come across her face. Tomorrow Hornet would get her revenge, the Abyssals would get theirs, and she could finally take a fucking shower. It was amazing how that small thing held such value to her.

No sooner had she let the water hit her did her own waterworks start. Finally she could let out the pain and frustration she felt. It had all been her fault after all. Her first command had amounted to an utter disaster. A ship was dead, several more were the cause, and absolutely no one respected her enough to even knock before entering her office.

She was a failure alright. For what seemed like an eternity she sat under the hot stream, letting it flow around her long after all the blood and grime was gone. There was a mark on her soul that no water would remove. She supposed she'd just have to live with it. Finally she drew herself out, soaking wet and eyes puffy, changed into her silky nightware, and set an alarm before finally settling down to a torturous slumber.

Turmfalke, Admiralty, Then Comms

Turmfalke was tempted to kick in the door. Sorely tempted.

She'd run all the way to Admiralty, only to miss the secretary ship, if the locked door and lack of lights was any indication, and it pissed her off, but rationality won out as she admitted to herself that even ranking officers needed to sleep at some point. That meant she'd need to head over to Comms and tell Tumbledown to tell the relevant parties not to shoot and to get the base fairies ready to help put away the incoming supplies. And she'd go no slower, her arrival there marked by her practically ramming the door open, so short was the time between turning the handle and bursting in. "Tumbledown! We've got friendlies incoming with supplies! Let the triple-A know not to shoot at them and get any fairies that aren't on important tasks to the airfield to get everything put away!", she practically snapped.

NFR Cotechino. Somewhere close to base.
The... polite request to not fire on the aircraft was received by both Passero and us, as well as a report of the CAP, that the leader of the formation contacted them and told them, that they would very much appreciate not being shot at.
I saw my carrier smirk.
It was almost cute.
"Passero, Orkan. Sottoporre.", Passero confirmed and smiled, letting the radio go dead. I saw another effect of the request: Our planes were retreating, taking up formation over us again.
There was, however, the matter of the group of shipgirls from Jebslund separating from their convoy...
Hm. More reinforcements.
Things were getting interesting.
"Passero, Base, the cold is receeding. This is weird.", my carrier replied, "We will be at base in an hour. Please keep the tea hot!"
I smiled. Tea... freshly brewed preferably... Great Guarding, this would be wonderful!

Tumbledown
Confused

Tumble tried to hear what they had just said again. They werent Abyssal but they didnt have markings... She flipped through the duty roster and saw that no aircraft carriers were out, combined with the fact that the runways were still fubar... Those were defiantly not District planes! "B-base copies!" She stuttered out, "Be advised, the district has no aircraft out, be careful guys!" She wasnt supposed to talk like that on the radio, but couldnt really help it. She was terrified for them! What a scary situation! Even safe and sound in this little room, Tumble felt the hairs on her neck stand straight up.

Supply Wing, Over the Base

"Base, this is Supply One. Tell FNS Glorious her birthday came early this year. We've got nonperishables, Upgrade Kits, and other goodies and we're dropping them by your airfield, along with some recon gyros.", the lead aircraft of the group announced over short-range radio as soon as the fairy pilot was certain they were in range. As the formation flew in, the modified bombers and Geisterfledermauses formed a line formation, dropping their crates with such timing that they'd (hopefully) land in more-or-less straight lines to one side of the airfield's main runway, the distance between each aircraft such that the supplies could all be dropped from each with no overlap.

The autogyros, on the other hand, landed in rows on the other side of the runway, as close to hangars as possible, and their fairies immediately began working with the base fairies to unload their aircraft and get the autogyros squared away for the night and the supplies put away.

Prospekt

She was long gone now. There were no clouds for her to dance upon. Or rather, there were no visible clouds for her to dance on. Night was practically upon Prospekt. Tints of orange and pink were scattered along the horizon where the sun was setting. The day was almost at its end and so was his energy. His eyes begged to be shut. "Sorry, boys." His murmuring was regretful, "not yet... not yet."

Just as he raised a clammy palm to rub them back into submission, his attention was reclaimed by the horizon. But it wasn't the beauty of the concluding sunset that drew his focus. It was something rising from it. A group of at least twelve ships, mostly cruisers. An ambiguous speck had risen from among them and was drawing near him. At first it seemed like an insect. Prospekt cocked his eyebrow in rabid fascination. It didn't have wings. Its top was luminescent with a faint dim blue glow that became ever more pronounced in the now rapidly-approaching black of night.

It was much closer now, and any sunlight was gone. From its front, a sort of beak-shaped appendage jutted out from its front. It was some sort of plane. Stopping to think, his drowsiness had been vanquished. Prospekt realized it was most certainly within range of his transmitter and was filled with further interest. "Now just who might you be?" He raised two fingers to his right temple and placed a light pressure.

"Unidentified airplane, this is Prospekt, could you give me some identification? Out." The pressure on his radio released as he awaited a response. Nothing. Maybe they didn't hear him? "Nearby airplane, this is Prospekt, what's your callsign? Out." Still nothing.

Abruptly, this 'nearby airplane,' begin to deviate. Soon, it had performed a total one-eighty, and returned in the direction of the group of ships. And with that, Prospekt's eyes widened with disturbance. A great unease gripped at his soul and the gears in his heart skipped a beat. It was a spotter plane! The ships were abyssals!

Immediately, he readied himself. Prospekt was big, and he knew this. But what he knew better is that no enemy is to be underestimated. He learned that in Severny, and he sure wasn't going to forget it now. He knew what he had to do. His hand shot back up to his temple. "Mayday! Mayday! This is Prospekt! I've been engaged by and Abyssal squadron. I'm gonna need some help here... Out!"

Wespennest

Wespennest had just been about to acknowledge the clearance when she heard the panicked transmission. "Wespennest, Prospekt. I hear your distress call, but we do not have the time at present to mount a search for you. Please send coordinates, over.", Wespennest replied, readying her aircraft despite having nowhere to send them just yet. The thought of letting her sister know about the message briefly occurred to her, but Wespennest decided against it. Her aircraft could handle this. There was no need for Hornissennest's fancy jets in such a simple matter. "Mord, Herde, rearm as soon as your birds return. We've got Abyssals to kill.".

---

Sterkian Battlegroup

---

SRN Junipris, Room 400

---

Junipris rolled over sleepily, looking curiously at Mary Read, the treasure chest hastily stashed under the bed had caught her interest.
"Do you like pirates?" She asked sleepily, ready to pass out at the drop of a hat.

Mary Read Kerman, Room 400
Mary Read Kerman nodded, a sleepy grin on her face, "Uh-huh! My brothers and sisters and me were named after pirates!", she happily replied, though she, too, was ready to pass out at any moment, "What about you? Do you like pirates?", she sleepily asked.

[Sterkistan]

Carman Fea, Base Cafe.
I nodded and sat down, even if only for a moment and politeness.
There was no smile, no grin, no nothing.
I took in air.
"I was Diamantina's escort today.", I began, my voice laden with all the blame I still assigned to myself, orders be damned, "When she sank, well... I picked up surviving fairies. I guess, they would feel more welcome with other Sterkistani ships."
I put my hand on the table and tapped twice with my finger.
My own fairies came out first, a small detachment, forming an honour guard, then the fairies from the battleship, which was sunk today. They were not many and some were wounded, but they had a certain fire in their eyes.
They wanted to avenge Diamantina.
They would get more chances to do that with the new arrivals then with me, I felt.
I waited.

Mary Read Kerman, Room 400
Mary Read Kerman nodded, a sleepy grin on her face, "Uh-huh! My brothers and sisters and me were named after pirates!", she happily replied, though she, too, was ready to pass out at any moment, "What about you? Do you like pirates?", she sleepily asked.

---

Sterkian Battlegroup

---

SRN Lizbeth-Charlatan, Buschlet-Lia, Cafe

---

Lia fixed her posture as the Selkie cruiser took a seat, Carman's sombre nature alone told them they shouldn't expect happy news.
Lizbeth clicked her tongue lightly as Dia was mentioned again, it seemed they'd never be able to get over this at the rate they were going.
When the fairies assembled on the table, Lia teared up again. Struggling to keep a calm disposition.
"Thank you, we'll take them off your hands. You did your best." Lizbeth spoke up

---

SRN Junipris

---

Junipris yawned, smiling.
"Yeah, pirates are cool. I'm just named after some plant.

[Arrstotzka]

Wespennest

Wespennest had just been about to acknowledge the clearance when she heard the panicked transmission. "Wespennest, Prospekt. I hear your distress call, but we do not have the time at present to mount a search for you. Please send coordinates, over.", Wespennest replied, readying her aircraft despite having nowhere to send them just yet. The thought of letting her sister know about the message briefly occurred to her, but Wespennest decided against it. Her aircraft could handle this. There was no need for Hornissennest's fancy jets in such a simple matter. "Mord, Herde, rearm as soon as your birds return. We've got Abyssals to kill."

Prospekt

The abyssals had opened fire and were moving in on him with haste. A legion of goosebumps dashed across the back of his neck. His state of sleep-drunkenness had been replaced by fear that pulsated like the continuous flowing of blood through his veins; fear for his own life. It was a miracle his hands refused to shake at times like these. His heart was throbbing with unyielding and rapid speed. The sound of artillery fire surrounding him struck horror into every nerve of his massive, sturdy body.

His rifle cracked with robust fanfare. For the first time in some months, it had emerged from hiding where it had once been perched on his back, held in place only by a strap. He stood firmly as its butt pounded against him. His aim was sufficient but no more. "Oh, right." He was quick to the radio, almost stuttering as he shouted out his coords, maintaining the hold of his left hand upon his right temple. He was known to be fast with the rifle. His hands darted to pull the bolt back and forth.

Firing off at the incoming predators, he knew all too well that he was more than an easy prey. He was a sitting duck! Prospekt had heard stories of the abyssals, and these stories couldn't have picked a worse time to assault his imagination. Rumors of kanmusu being slain in the most agonizing of ways, and others of some being captured, taken to a fate worse than death. What Prospekt felt now was more than fear - it was pure, sickening dread.

"No!" He wouldn't let his own angst be his downfall. If he wanted to survive until help arrived, he'd have to clear his mind of such horrible thoughts. Now was the time to fight! "Damn you!" He fed his rifle another clip.

[Jebslund]

Prospekt

The abyssals had opened fire and were moving in on him with haste. A legion of goosebumps dashed across the back of his neck. His state of sleep-drunkenness had been replaced by fear that pulsated like the continuous flowing of blood through his veins; fear for his own life. It was a miracle his hands refused to shake at times like these. His heart was throbbing with unyielding and rapid speed. The sound of artillery fire surrounding him struck horror into every nerve of his massive, sturdy body.

His rifle cracked with robust fanfare. For the first time in some months, it had emerged from hiding where it had once been perched on his back, held in place only by a strap. He stood firmly as its butt pounded against him. His aim was sufficient but no more. "Oh, right." He was quick to the radio, almost stuttering as he shouted out his coords, maintaining the hold of his left hand upon his right temple. He was known to be fast with the rifle. His hands darted to pull the bolt back and forth.

Firing off at the incoming predators, he knew all too well that he was more than an easy prey. He was a sitting duck! Prospekt had heard stories of the abyssals, and these stories couldn't have picked a worse time to assault his imagination. Rumors of kanmusu being slain in the most agonizing of ways, and others of some being captured, taken to a fate worse than death. What Prospekt felt now was more than fear - it was pure, sickening dread.

"No!" He wouldn't let his own angst be his downfall. If he wanted to survive until help arrived, he'd have to clear his mind of such horrible thoughts. Now was the time to fight! "Damn you!" He fed his rifle another clip.[/quote]

Wespennest, Approaching the base

"Solid copy, Prospekt. We are sending help now. Wespennest out.", Wespennest answered, saving an under-her-breath "Verdammt." for when she was off the radio. According to his coordinates, only her Spatzes would be able to reach him in time, and they weren't equipped for anything larger than a destoryer unless she used her Schwarm ability. For now, though, she was content to send them out in three flights of eight so that each could activate their own ability, with which their speed rivalled and even exceeded Hornissennest's jets. Speaking of... "Hornissennest, this is Wespennest. An ally is under attack at coordinates (...,...). Recommend you scramble a strike package to persuade his attackers to go elsewhere, over.".

As soon as the aircraft were near enough to the enemy to begin their runs, she would break the formations, then put them all into four line formations of six each, then activate her Schwarm ability. Each aircraft would fire one rocket at the same enemy ship, then repeat the process with each enemy until they were out of rockets, at which point they would harass the enemy, each group of four going after a different enemy's eyes and other delicate parts.

Kreech River

Smiling, Kreech watched Carman go. She'd be lying if she said she didnt feel a tad bit snubbed, but she knew Carman wouldnt have turned her away like that unless it was something important. Deciding to trust her friend, Kreech sat to wait. She wanted to eat, but the thought of her mission tomorrow and talking with her boss had robbed her of an appetite. She'd probably be ravenous in the morning, but that was future Kreech's problem. Instead she placed the order Carman had said she'd wanted, and collected a glass of water for herself.

They'd never gotten to those anti air drills, the cruiser reflected, that was probably important. It was far too late now to try though, not with an important mission on the horizon tomorrow. Things would work out, they had to, but there was a nagging feeling at the back of Kreech's mind. A sort of dark foreboding that set her stomach rioting. Hopefully things would work out, she amended.

Hornissennest, Cafe

No sooner had Hornissennest cracked the cap off of her third beer than Wespennest's voice, already an unexpected sound, came over her radio to inform her of another ally needing fishing out of a jam. "Kreech River, have a beer or have Erika put this on ice. Something's come up.", she called out as she rushed to and out the door. Fairies were already taking to the air as she high-tailed it to the docks, taking their aircraft forms as soon as they were clear of her. Twenty Fleigendewaffels and forty Maschinenteufels were already screaming toward the enemy by the time her feet were wet, and Hornissennest knew time was not on their side. Even at top speed, her aircraft would be just over 30 minutes out. If Wespennest had been smart, and Hornissennest knew her sister well enough to know she was, Wespennest's interceptors would be the first to get there, in just under 20 minutes, using their ability. Their damage would be negligible unless Wespennest broke their formations on arrival and sent them after the enemy as a group, with the entire swarm firing one rocket each at each enemy in order to take advantage of Wespennest's Schwarm ability.

[Fantrum]

Polar
Involuntary Fraternization

Patiently, Polar held open the door while So more or less stumbled out. She caught the shaky submarine under the arm before she could fall again and held her upright for a second. Abyssals werent really supposed to roam on land, and submarines especially so, it was a wonder she could walk. Sharing a quick whispered word with the cruiser's on duty, Polar directed So toward a decrepit set of dorms. "Sure kid, lets get this going."

These had only recently had work to renovate them started. Holes dotted the roof, grass still spouted from between the floor boards, and most of the windows were so much shattered glass around the various rooms. One dorm had been made, if not livable, then bearable. Plywood had been stuck over the open window to shut off the elements, the mold was all scrapped out, and a new bed with fresh sheets had been placed inside. The ceiling was obviously being worked on, but the roof was pretty much intact.

The whole space held an overpowering stench of musky woodrot and recently cut wood. All told it was better than sleeping outside, but that was about it. Polar didnt envy the pale sub. Polar lit another cigarette as she scrunched up her nose at the smell permeating from inside. "Eh, sorry So. Looks like this is home sweet home." Quickly sticking her head back out the door, Polar exchanged a look with the ragged Sentry and turned back to So, "It looks like they have a pair of pajamas for you..." Cautiously, Polar approached the lump of silky smooth clothing. Holding it up, she chuckled slightly at the name embroidered in frilly letters over the left breast, complete with a little sunflower at the end. "I didnt know Tumbledown was willing to sacrifice her favorite pair." She handed the set to So, "Here, try them on first, make sure they actually fit."

Tumbledown
Having a small panic attack

One moment Tumble was happily scribbling in her trans ledger, the next her door had been violently thrown open and an angry superior was yelling at her. Shed barely managed to stop screaming from her position on the floor and wiping her eyes to register what Turm had actually said. Shakily, but quickly, she redonned her headset and keyed into the base AA defense net frequency. "Control, um, to all stations, incoming contacts are friendly!" She could barely see past her nervous tears to turn to the scary heavy cruiser and give a salute, "M-mission accomplished ma'am!" She couldnt think of anyone else that would be free at this time to help, but she'd give that call out when the terrifying woman left.

Ne Class
Running down prey

Blood roared in her ears, the thrill, the reward! The hunt was on! Ne couldnt help herself as her more savage nature overtook her for a moment, run little Kanmusu, run! Youre not so tough when you dont have your friends with you! A massive geyser of seawater soaked Ne to the bone and shook her out of her primal daydream. Right. She was a flagship now, no time to get all worked up when there was still thinking to do.

"Ma'am!" One of her subordinates was shrieking at her, "The query is squawking, unencoded, and receiving responses." That meant they didnt have much time to finish this and get away clean. Then again... The reward was right there! Right in her hands! She could smell his blood if she tried hard enough.

Making up her mind she shot a smile back to the light cruiser's worried face, "We've got time, our prey is well within grasp, press on the attack." No sooner had she said that did two of her escorting destroyers disappear beneath twin sprouts of fire and water. There simply wasnt anything left of them. Such was the nature of their lives, Ne supposed.

Their sacrifice wasnt in vain however, for he had slowed down considerably to aim and fire. That opened him up to the rest of her flotilla's guns and her forward element's torpedoes. In one massed volley, three of her surviving destroyers and one light crusier launched their torpedoes at long range. The intent to force him to maneuver to avoid the torpedoes and thus slow him down further. The rest of her ships continued at flank speed, the stragglers falling back into line with Ne herself.

Kreech River
Suddenly with a drink

Kreech hadnt had time to do more than make a surprised eep sound before her boss was gone and she was left there with the unfinished beer. Gingerly, she took a sip, the bitter brew wasnt altogether unpleasant, and decided she kinda liked it. She'd never considered herself a drinker, and wasnt really one for hard liquor either, but this was a nice beverage!

Happily, she took a longer pull off the bottle. Hopefully Carman would come back soon and they could finish what they'd come here for and go to sleep! She reflected on that, she'd been asleep just about all day, and hadnt really spent all that much time awake so far. Why was she suddenly so sleepy? She chalked it up to duty messing with her sleep schedule.

[Arrstotzka]

Wespennest, Approaching the base

"Solid copy, Prospekt. We are sending help now. Wespennest out.", Wespennest answered, saving an under-her-breath "Verdammt." for when she was off the radio. According to his coordinates, only her Spatzes would be able to reach him in time, and they weren't equipped for anything larger than a destoryer unless she used her Schwarm ability. For now, though, she was content to send them out in three flights of eight so that each could activate their own ability, with which their speed rivalled and even exceeded Hornissennest's jets. Speaking of... "Hornissennest, this is Wespennest. An ally is under attack at coordinates (...,...). Recommend you scramble a strike package to persuade his attackers to go elsewhere, over.".

As soon as the aircraft were near enough to the enemy to begin their runs, she would break the formations, then put them all into four line formations of six each, then activate her Schwarm ability. Each aircraft would fire one rocket at the same enemy ship, then repeat the process with each enemy until they were out of rockets, at which point they would harass the enemy, each group of four going after a different enemy's eyes and other delicate parts.

Hornissennest, Cafe

No sooner had Hornissennest cracked the cap off of her third beer than Wespennest's voice, already an unexpected sound, came over her radio to inform her of another ally needing fishing out of a jam. "Kreech River, have a beer or have Erika put this on ice. Something's come up.", she called out as she rushed to and out the door. Fairies were already taking to the air as she high-tailed it to the docks, taking their aircraft forms as soon as they were clear of her. Twenty Fleigendewaffels and forty Maschinenteufels were already screaming toward the enemy by the time her feet were wet, and Hornissennest knew time was not on their side. Even at top speed, her aircraft would be just over 30 minutes out. If Wespennest had been smart, and Hornissennest knew her sister well enough to know she was, Wespennest's interceptors would be the first to get there, in just under 20 minutes, using their ability. Their damage would be negligible unless Wespennest broke their formations on arrival and sent them after the enemy as a group, with the entire swarm firing one rocket each at each enemy in order to take advantage of Wespennest's Schwarm ability.

Ne Class
Running down prey

Blood roared in her ears, the thrill, the reward! The hunt was on! Ne couldnt help herself as her more savage nature overtook her for a moment, run little Kanmusu, run! Youre not so tough when you dont have your friends with you! A massive geyser of seawater soaked Ne to the bone and shook her out of her primal daydream. Right. She was a flagship now, no time to get all worked up when there was still thinking to do.

"Ma'am!" One of her subordinates was shrieking at her, "The query is squawking, unencoded, and receiving responses." That meant they didnt have much time to finish this and get away clean. Then again... The reward was right there! Right in her hands! She could smell his blood if she tried hard enough.

Making up her mind she shot a smile back to the light cruiser's worried face, "We've got time, our prey is well within grasp, press on the attack." No sooner had she said that did two of her escorting destroyers disappear beneath twin sprouts of fire and water. There simply wasnt anything left of them. Such was the nature of their lives, Ne supposed.

Their sacrifice wasnt in vain however, for he had slowed down considerably to aim and fire. That opened him up to the rest of her flotilla's guns and her forward element's torpedoes. In one massed volley, three of her surviving destroyers and one light crusier launched their torpedoes at long range. The intent to force him to maneuver to avoid the torpedoes and thus slow him down further. The rest of her ships continued at flank speed, the stragglers falling back into line with Ne herself.

Prospekt

The pithy pride and adrenaline rush he had derived from the sinking of two abyssal destroyers was fleeting. Prospekt's eyes darted and dashed around as he had just maneuvered around an incoming torpedo strike. He felt a brief alleviation, but not enough of it for him to dare letting his guard down. Had he made such a mistake, it could certainly have been his last. The pause to his panic was all but too short-lived. The real beating took him as a cruel surprise, and soon enough, he was giving his all against a constant barrage of more torpedoes, nearly sweeping him off his feet.

"Fuck!" The bashing was unyielding. It rocked him to his very core. Prospekt pressed his rifle firmly against his chest as he quickly asserted a defensive stance. The gears of his bones hadn't tightened like this since Severny. His hull bore the brutality, just as it had been designed to withstand such attacks. Nonetheless, the torpedoes thrashed him relentlessly. His very being was engulfed by a searing heated pain. It was as if God himself had taken to gut-punching the large kanmusu. He nearly took to praying for it to end when he managed to catch relief.

The strike had stalled. His mind was filled with ambition. Now was the time to react! The rifle once more emerged from were it hid. The sound of its mighty burst could be heard for miles. It filled him with a revived sense of confidence and hope. He knew that if he was to die here, he'd give it his all to take as many abyssals with him to the bottom of the ocean. "C'mon! Is that the best you can d-"

He hardly saw the shell coming straight for his face. The explosion turned Prospekt's world white, and replaced any surrounding sounds with a piercing ring. He barely felt a whiff of pain from the hit itself. Any hint of such was thoroughly trumped by the sheer shock of being knocked on his own ass. What he did feel was a hot stream that began to trickle down his left cheek where his hand investigated to find the origin. He wouldn't piece it together then, but the source of the current was a hole left behind when his left eye was claimed by the detonation of the shell that had smacked him right across his head.

A voice seemed to call out from somewhere within his subconscious. "Get up, you son of a bitch. Help's on the way. You can sleep when you're dead!"

[Jebslund]

Prospekt

The pithy pride and adrenaline rush he had derived from the sinking of two abyssal destroyers was fleeting. Prospekt's eyes darted and dashed around as he had just maneuvered around an incoming torpedo strike. He felt a brief alleviation, but not enough of it for him to dare letting his guard down. Had he made such a mistake, it could certainly have been his last. The pause to his panic was all but too short-lived. The real beating took him as a cruel surprise, and soon enough, he was giving his all against a constant barrage of more torpedoes, nearly sweeping him off his feet.

"Fuck!" The bashing was unyielding. It rocked him to his very core. Prospekt pressed his rifle firmly against his chest as he quickly asserted a defensive stance. The gears of his bones hadn't tightened like this since Severny. His hull bore the brutality, just as it had been designed to withstand such attacks. Nonetheless, the torpedoes thrashed him relentlessly. His very being was engulfed by a searing heated pain. It was as if God himself had taken to gut-punching the large kanmusu. He nearly took to praying for it to end when he managed to catch relief.

The strike had stalled. His mind was filled with ambition. Now was the time to react! The rifle once more emerged from were it hid. The sound of its mighty burst could be heard for miles. It filled him with a revived sense of confidence and hope. He knew that if he was to die here, he'd give it his all to take as many abyssals with him to the bottom of the ocean. "C'mon! Is that the best you can d-"

He hardly saw the shell coming straight for his face. The explosion turned Prospekt's world white, and replaced any surrounding sounds with a piercing ring. He barely felt a whiff of pain from the hit itself. Any hint of such was thoroughly trumped by the sheer shock of being knocked on his own ass. What he did feel was a hot stream that began to trickle down his left cheek where his hand investigated to find the origin. He wouldn't piece it together then, but the source of the current was a hole left behind when his left eye was claimed by the detonation of the shell that had smacked him right across his head.

A voice seemed to call out from somewhere within his subconscious. "Get up, you son of a bitch. Help's on the way. You can sleep when you're dead!"[/quote]

Mord and Herde, next to Wespennest
Ten minutes had passed since Wespennest had given the order to rearm and refuel, and the fairies abord Mord and Herde had wasted no time in doing so, getting their birds armed and sent back out nearly as soon as they were stopped, eight Spatzes at a time first, to head out at best possible speed, then, twenty minutes after the order originally came, the Geisterfledermauses all at once, breaking turnaround records and several regulations in the process as they hurried to get their aircraft out to support Wespennest's and Hornissennest's strike packages. Mord doubted whoever was attacking their ally was going to survive to regret it, and a grin lit her face as she watched, anticipation growing by the minute, her precious birds speed toward the enemy.

Tumbledown
Having a small panic attack

One moment Tumble was happily scribbling in her trans ledger, the next her door had been violently thrown open and an angry superior was yelling at her. Shed barely managed to stop screaming from her position on the floor and wiping her eyes to register what Turm had actually said. Shakily, but quickly, she redonned her headset and keyed into the base AA defense net frequency. "Control, um, to all stations, incoming contacts are friendly!" She could barely see past her nervous tears to turn to the scary heavy cruiser and give a salute, "M-mission accomplished ma'am!" She couldnt think of anyone else that would be free at this time to help, but she'd give that call out when the terrifying woman left.

Tumfalke, Sorely disappointed
Turmfalke could only stare in utter disappointment as the destroyer had a panic attack in front of her. It was one thing for destroyers to be childish. Even Mary Read Kerman had her moments. It was another thing entirely to break down into a screaming, crying mess like a housewife in some Kerthenian cartoon who had just seen a mouse. Even if it had been just briefly, Turmfalke expected more of a warrior, even a young one. "Very well, Tumbledown. Get the message out to the fairies, then work on that fear response. We've already lost sis ships to unreliability. Don't follow their example.", she snapped as she returned the salute and left the building. Turmfalke was definitely going to get as drunk as Kerriott would let her tonight.

Ne Class
Running down prey

Blood roared in her ears, the thrill, the reward! The hunt was on! Ne couldn't help herself as her more savage nature overtook her for a moment, run little Kanmusu, run! You're not so tough when you don't have your friends with you! A massive geyser of seawater soaked Ne to the bone and shook her out of her primal daydream. Right. She was a flagship now, no time to get all worked up when there was still thinking to do.

"Ma'am!" One of her subordinates was shrieking at her, "The query is squawking, unencoded, and receiving responses." That meant they didn't have much time to finish this and get away clean. Then again... The reward was right there! Right in her hands! She could smell his blood if she tried hard enough.

Making up her mind she shot a smile back to the light cruiser's worried face, "We've got time, our prey is well within grasp, press on the attack." No sooner had she said that did two of her escorting destroyers disappear beneath twin sprouts of fire and water. There simply wasn't anything left of them. Such was the nature of their lives, Ne supposed.

Their sacrifice wasn't in vain however, for he had slowed down considerably to aim and fire. That opened him up to the rest of her flotilla's guns and her forward element's torpedoes. In one massed volley, three of her surviving destroyers and one light cruiser launched their torpedoes at long range. The intent to force him to maneuver to avoid the torpedoes and thus slow him down further. The rest of her ships continued at flank speed, the stragglers falling back into line with Ne herself.

Schwarm Ein, 20 minutes later

As predicted by Hornissennest, Wespennest's Spatzes were the first to arrive, high and fast. Their targets would be any enemies in 6km of the allied vessel first, with any remaining rockets aimed squarely at any AA-oriented cruisers second, with intent to focus fire on an attempt to sink if possible, blind and slow otherwise. That, upon their arrival, meant they'd be mopping up the destroyers first, then moving on to the cruisers. They had ten minutes before Hornissennest's aircraft joined in the battle, and the idea was to get the enemy fleeing in those ten minutes, as well as thinning out the AA for the next wave. As they dove to engage, the Spatzes wasted no time breaking their original formations and getting into their appointed four-plane lines, the formations skewed just enough to allow them all to fire simultaneously..

Speer Ein, 10 minutes until enemy contact

What had began as a haphazard and rushed scramble had ended up as proper chevrons, the aircraft screaming toward the enemy low and quick to avoid detection. The plan for Hornissennest's fighters and fighter-bombers was to get in and mop up whatever Hornissennest's Spatzes hadn't been able to. This meant making the enemy think the interceptors were the only aircraft sent after them until it was too late, which meant avoiding detection as long as possible. As they flew, reports from the Spatzes confirmed that the ships remaining upon their arrival were cruisers and destroyers. And that they were doing far better against the allied battleship than hoped. It was likely the battleship would need towed to base at this rate.

[Fantrum]

Ne Class
Premature Celebration

The stars had aligned! The depths had blessed her! The final spread of torpedoes had done it, and someone's lucky shot had taken out the prey's fire director! Quickly, Ne ordered a cease fire and spread her destroyers out in a semi circle facing the direction the she thought the air attack was going to come. And come it would. "A wonderful catch everyone!" All it had cost Ne was a few destroyers, and a lot of comparatively minor wounds. That for a battleship was math Ne could be proud of. She'd expected it to be a slog to run the battleship down, but his turning to shoot had been his undoing. "Ri, get someone to help you drag this prize with you, we've got to move."

She knelt down next to the fallen battleship, seeing his struggles, and smiled. "You were less of a fight than I thought you would be. Its disappointing, but Ill take whatever I can get." Rearing back, she kicked him square in the face. And promptly broke one of her toes. That was right. He had a stunning amount of weight on her. Attempting to hide the rather excruciating pain that was now shooting up her leg, Ne played it off cool, but the rising snickers told of her failure. "Damnit, I said we-" She didnt get the rest of it out, since two more of her destroyers detonated, bringing her total number of ships down from thirteen to nine. She was running dangerously low on escorts.

The angry plane noises from overhead confirmed her fears and more rockets began falling as her ships took evasive action and started to shoot back. Running the math in her head, Ne finally realized her failure in full. This had been a fool's attack from the start. Switching from her general Freak to light signals, Ne communicated through the battle din for her surviving ships to scatter and regroup at their forward base after, or rather if, they broke contact. Shed been blinded by glory and ambition! Damnit! She could still save some of the fleet though, the sacrifice of some would save the others.

For a second, Ne contemplated just how things had gone so wrong so quickly. She'd just been winning hadnt she? No time to dwell, Ne turned, face a panicked mess, and emptied her torpedo tubes into the only target within range. Leaving the kanmusu battleship to his fate, Ne sped up to flank speed and tried to look as uninviting a target as she could.

Tumbledown
Embarrassed and Scared, but not down

Tumble held the salute, she held it for a while, a long while. When she finally cut it, she nearly fell into her chair. She'd seen that look before. The one Tum had given her. It was the same one you reserved for sniveling kids! The pity, disappointment, even a hint of angry impatience. That was something she knew well. She couldnt help her temperament. Things naturally scared the daylights out of her! She'd been timid since before she could remember, a good number of her sisters actually were too.

She could fight, just like any kanmusu, she could follow orders, sail around, do a job. Anything they needed of her! What was the worry if she was a little fast on the waterworks? Or jumped when people kicked down her door? Most other ships had only that same look Tum had given her, theyd give her a second's glance and leave, head shaking. Worse, they might get an idea to toughen her up... She'd been through that before. The memory wasnt a good or happy one. Wiping the last remnants of her attack off her face, she resolved to do something about it. She'd show someone she was worthy of more than that stupid look! She just... didnt know how... or who...

It was going to be a long night, but, as she picked up her ledger again, maybe she could come up with ways to better herself with it? A new sensation crept up her spine as she started writing. It felt good! Like she could do this! Maybe she could?