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Harry Potter & the Shipgirls

FoL On the way to Porta
Savato93

Millie crouched down, facing the wall in front of her. There were numerous switches set in the surface of the wall… but only one held her interest. Reaching out, she gripped the circuit breaker that corresponded to the Omega's bridge—the most complex set of electrical circuits in the entire ship, and the last one to be refitted—and took a deep breath.

She turned on her radio. "Okay, this is the last one, everybody. Fingers crossed…"

She flipped the switch… and was a low, almost imperceptible hum as the electricity she was providing started to flow through the circuit at a steady rate.

The breaker did not trip.

Millie let out a deep sigh. On the floors above, she could hear cheering as the systems of the Omega's bridge finally came online once more, after years of prior deterioration. Her job was complete… the yacht's electrical systems were fully operational again, and her hull was 100% seaworthy. A small part of the repair ship was disappointed her mother couldn't be here to see this… but then, she had gone away with Aunt Sunny to meet a fleet of Abyssals living in the Atlantic.

She hoped she would be alright on the trip there…

XXXXX

Nuri growled in annoyance as a 16-inch shell dug into her primary airstrip and exploded, blowing a not-insignificant chunk out of the asphalt. All around her, the members of Sunny's fleet were taking up defensive positions, with the Battleship Demon herself standing between Nuri and the ragtag group of feral Abyssals that had chased them down for no discernible reason.

Unbelievable… were feral Abyssals normally this psychotically aggressive, even around their own kind? How many times had Sunny and her kin dealt with fleets like this…?

"Hey, sis…" Nuri glanced to Sunny, who had turned back to her with a sly grin. "How much do you think you can manifest your installation half physically? I wanna try something stupid…"

Oh well. If they were going to put up with more of these random ambushes while en route to Panama, at least Sunny was here to make things interesting.

XXXXX

Hearing the door to the room creak open, Millie turned to see Ritou poke her head in. "Great work, girl. You've done a lot to help us expedite this refit. Your mother will be proud to see what you helped accomplish once she gets back…"

Millie nodded softly. "Thanks."

"No problem. Now… I suggest you get the hell out." Ritou jerked a thumb over her shoulder. "We're about to fire up the new engines, and there is a non-zero chance of this whole thing going kaboom right under our feet."

Ooh, that would be bad. "Right, sure. One second…" Millie pulled her tail out of the nearby connection port and followed Ritou up to the deck. From there, it only took a couple minutes to navigate the extensive scaffolding that surrounded the ship, kept it suspended several feet off the beach and out of the water. Once she got down to ground level, Millie made her way over to the crowd that had gathered a safe distance away.

From here, it was easier for Millie to make out the more dramatic changes to the Omega's physical structure. Her draft, originally just under four and a half meters, had been extended to seven meters in order to accommodate her new Abyss-made boilers, turbines and screws. To vent the exhaust from this new propulsion system, a smokestack now came up through the lower decks of the ship, emerging at the rear of the flybridge behind the antenna array. With her new coat of paint complete, and the flag of the Fleet of Laughter emblazoned on her bow, the Omega looked like an entirely new vessel—one that hadn't been left to rust away for almost a decade. And if all went well today, she'd finally be able to sail under her own power again.

The gathering of Abyssals and Abyssal-touched children watched with anticipation as a handful of battleships, led by Tanith, gathered around the bow of the suspended ship. Setting their hands firmly against the hull, they began to carefully push her backwards, towards the water. The yacht's frame protested briefly to the pressure—but the groaning of metal was quickly drowned out by the creaking and crunching of wood, as the network of scaffolding surrounding her started to give out. To many of them, it almost looked like it was happening in slow motion… the battleships scurried away as the wooden framework slowly tipped and fell backward, bringing the ship with it, until the whole assembly crashed into the water in a cacophony of shattering wood and roaring water.

As the dust and the waves settled, the ship was revealed to be roughly fifty meters into the ocean, her aft end bobbing up and down slightly with the tides. The battleships regrouped and started pushing once more; bit by bit, they helped the ship to slide the rest of the way into the water over several minutes. Finally, as the waterline of the bow started to submerge, the tide finished their job for them, giving the ship just enough deep water to lift off the seabed and float away from the beach.

The boys and girls all cheered as the Omega broke free from Avrora's shore, floating proudly for the first time in years. Millie, meanwhile, couldn't help feeling intense satisfaction, joy, and pride at the sight. She'd helped to make this happen… it was precisely the sort of thing she was born to do, and she'd been at peace doing it. Already, she wondered what she might be called to work on next…

Millie's radio suddenly crackled to life. {Alright, everyone,} her aunt Ritou's voice came in. {Everything looks good, no signs of flooding or warping anywhere. Firing up the engines in three… two… one!}

For several seconds, everything was silent and still—but then, the crowd heard a choking, sputtering sound. In the distance, small, pitiful puffs of smoke wafted up from the ship's smokestack. The onlookers weren't sure what was happening—some of them assumed it was just a slow start for a brand-new system—but then a ball of flame erupted from the funnel, causing them to jerk back.

{OH SHIT OH FUCK OH SHIT PUT IT OUT PUT IT OUT!!}

For several seconds the smokestack continued to belch flames, and the radio channel was filled with more panicked swearing and the sound of fire extinguishers... but eventually, thankfully, the fire receded, leaving the Omega emitting smoke at a much healthier rate than before.

{phew… I'm okay, I'm okay...} Ritou finally spoke up once more, sounding out of breath, and everyone was able to let out a sigh of relief. {Leftover diesel vapors, ignited by the boilers. Some glass gauges cracked in the heat, and my clothes got burned off… but everything is under control and nothing is on fire anymore. And more importantly…}

The ship's foghorn began to blare loudly—a signal for everyone to start cheering.

{She's alive!}

XXXXXXXXXX



"So…" Nuri asked calmly, an eyebrow raised, as she looked to her sister. "I take it you won't try to pull a stunt like that again in the near future…?"

Nestled protectively against the chest of her demon, her dress in tatters and nursing a broken leg, Sunny managed a pained but cheeky grin. "Yeah, probably not. It was pretty fun, though, even after the thing with my leg."

"When Mother learns what you did, she'll wring your neck. You know that, right?"

"A small price to pay, for the bragging rights…"
 
The Mill On The Meuse 6 [Verdun]
Yellowhammer

The Mill On The Meuse (VI)

Castle Moulbaix

May 6th, 2014

Spoiler: Final Preparations

Masamune-no-Tokunotakai dipped her writing brush into the pool of ink waiting for it in her inkstone. It lifted and danced across the waiting sheet of rice paper as she knelt in the room which Colombe had set up for her use.

What matter if I live on---
A tortoise lives
A hundred times as long
.

A single tear trickled down her cheek as she signed the poem with the circle representing enlightenment. It hesitated on her chin and then fell to stain the paper as she dipped the brush to address the poem to her sisters should she not return to them.

--------------------------------

"Lyra and Ian saved me you know." A soft French voice was interrupted by a swallow of brandy. "Physically, maybe, all I wanted to do then was just die. Certainly spiritually. Lyra gave me something to live for, she asked me swear to live for her and then him until I could find it in myself to live for myself once more."

"Master Ian and Miss Lyra were special like that." A pause while more brandy was poured. "Master Ian picked me up from the scrap heap after Shiroyama and gave me a reason to become... well."

"I wish that I could have spent more time with them. To-chan is wonderful and fulfills me, but I still love them both deeply and miss them." A hoarse sob.

"They are enshrined in the Arashi clan compound in Japan. When Master Harry took me there they appeared to me." A soft sob. "If... If I don't...."

The sound of a gentle hand squeezing a shoulder. "I'll make sure you make it back there to rest alongside them if the worst happens. I swear. I promised Ian to check in on them from time to time once my oath preventing it was fulfilled and I could visit Japan." A quiet laugh. "It is not like I ever let a few arrest warrants prevent me from doing what is right, non?"

A laugh. "Thank you. That sets my mind at ease. Master Harry is special and I love him deeply, but there will never be another like Master Ian. And for you if I'm the one?"

"Here at Moulbaix with my family. It's funny. When I was a girl, this castle seemed stifling and I wanted to leave it to explore and prove myself against the world. Now... not so much. I wonder when that changed?" A dry laugh as the last of the brandy was poured. "No matter. That's the last of the Nardini 1873. A fine year indeed."

"I can see why you gifted Ian and Lyra this for their 20th anniversary." A swallow of master-distilled Italian brandy. "Thank you for inviting me to share it with you, Colombe."

"My pleasure Tsukiakari."

------------------------------

In Claire du Chasteler's room, a Bosendorfer piano played a beautifully melancholy yet somewhat hopeful tune.
Spoiler: Claire Serenades Ehren

Sitting at her big sister's desk, a dagger's blonde-haired spirit dipped her mother's borrowed dip pen into a bottle of ink and began to write in a conscious imitation of Colombe's flowing calligraphy.

Dear Cousin Draco,

If you receive this letter I am no more.

The circumstances of my passing can be relayed by any survivors of our attempt to seal Verdun, if any people survive the attempt. I am writing to personally express my thanks for our time together -- as limited as it shall be -- and my hopes that you will nurture the seeds of greatness that I sensed in you. I wish you all the happiness in the world with the young ladies who accompanied you at our meeting, and please pass along my birthday wishes to the young lady who you bought the pearl earrings and necklace for.

Family supports family, and in the matter of Verdun, my mother needs my support, so I go into the furnace alongside her. I have the utmost confidence that if and when that time comes for you, you will live up to our shared heritage in whatever challenges our family shall face.

In closing, I wish to share the following piece of wisdom. I have striven in my short life to live according to the positive, true meaning of the inscription you may have noticed on my blade.
My honor is faithfulness, and once you find something that is as truly worthy of your faithfulness as my family has been of mine, if you follow your honor to the bitter end, you cannot truly go wrong.

Und jetzt ist es Zeit, auf Wiedersehen zu sagen.

Your loving cousin,

Ehren du Chasteler-Muramasa


Ehren carefully folded the letter as her mother had taught her, and then melted the stick of black sealing wax placed next to her awaiting signet marked with the heraldry of the du Chasteler heiress and the already sealed letters to Narcissa and Lucius Malfoy.

-------------------------------
Spoiler: Delilah's Goodbye

Delilah de Breuil punched in a number from memory into her phone. The phone rang several times, and then a voice that she had known all her life spoke into her ear.

"Oi, you have reached Jacklyn Fox. I'm not here right now, but if you leave your name and number at the beep, I'll get right back to you."

SS Horizon Bringer, off the Serranilla Bank in the Caribbean Sea

Next to the charger for the vibrating phone a weapons rack rested. A dove menuki on a massively oversized nodachi resting next to a boarding cutlass began to glow a soft gold.

A pair of suntanned feet attached to a Muramasa's avatar descended the shipboard ladder and began to fish in the half-full ice chest containing Jamaica Stout Beer. A head turned slightly at the sound of Jackie's voice from the satellite phone giving the answering machine message.

"Hey Jackie, it's Del. I guess this means that you are still off the grid doing shit that would jam my cylinders if I knew what it was. As I told you in the earlier messages, Colombe, Ying, and I are leading a strike team to hopefully put Verdun back down where it belongs. We can't wait for you any longer, so we are heading out of Moulbaix. If I don't make it back, I just wanted to say that it's been fun, mostly, and I wouldn't have missed it for the world. When you get back to civilization, pour out a cold one for me when you get this and I updated my will to pay off the bar tab I owe you from Gettysburg in 1913, so stop riding my ass over it. I'd normally tell you to be good, but I know you, so just stay uncaught. All my love."

The bottle of beer fell to shatter on the deck and a tanned hand grabbed her sword out of the rack and pounded up the ladder.

"DAMMIT JACKIE! I need to get to Moulbaix now!" Norimune bellowed.
 
New arrivals must be fed. It is the way
Harry Leferts

Somewhat surprised like her twin, though through their link she also knew that they both felt like they shouldn't have been, Sakura blinked, "You brought food for us, Harry-Chan? Really?"

Looking up from where he was pulling box after box from his backpack, the teenage wizard nodded, "Of course I did." Harry gave her a lopsided smile that made both twins blush, "I figured that you and the others would need a quick snack to tide you over, at least for when you do your after summoning briefing."

Rapidly blinking, Ume glanced at her sister, "Oh... We see."

They then smiled and spoke as one, "We thank you then for the meal."

For her part, Miitake pumped a fist into the air, "Alright! We get to try some of Harry-Chan's cooking!" She then grinned and held her fists in front of her, "Then... we huggle him more as thanks!"

Just pinching her nose, Ishikari sighed, "Miitake-Chan, just... just stop..."

Ignoring the byplay between the two Battlecruisers, though his lips twitched a bit, the thirteen year old wizard pulled out a three large thermos and set it aside with some honey drops into a plastic bowl. Uncorking it, Harry poured out the tea inside one of the thermos into a cup and handed it to Sakura, "Here you go, Sakura-Chan. I know that it is not the greatest, but..."

Much to his surprise, she just shook her head, "No, Harry-Chan. This is just fine." Leaning over, she kissed him on the cheek followed by her sister after Ume got her own tea, "This is more than fine, so thank you."

Lightly blushing, Harry chuckled as he passed out other cups of tea, though Kusumi also helped with that. Then, he began to tap the small boxes, enlarging them before opening them and handing each on to the shipgirl (or Installation, in Sakura's and Ume's case) that had their name on it, "Here, these are onigiri and should help some."

Eyes widening at the amount in her box, Denryuu bowed with a slight smile, "Thank you, Harry-Chan." Taking one, she bit into it only to hum, "Mmm, these are quite good."

A chuckle escaped Harry as he shrugged before he glanced around. Miitake, of course, was practically inhaling hers while Ishikari was scolding her between quick bites herself. Ume and Sakura ate theirs quick, though graceful. And the others were also eating some. Lips twitching, he pulled out some paper plates and piled them high with karaage before placing them and chopsticks beside the various shipgirls eating. That was followed by him enlarging the small cauldrons into larger ones and ladling out portions of tonjiru into large bowls which were then handed over.

It filled Harry with no small amount of happiness to see them enjoy his cooking. If there was one thing he liked doing, it was cooking for people who enjoyed it and appreciated it. As he watched, he internally noted several things.

One such thing was how much that the Midget Submarines were eating. The smaller ones seemed to be eating and getting full on what would be a large meal for a human who was a big eater. Which did not surprise him as, with a quick glance, he recognized them as being Ko-hyoteki type Submarines. Something that made sense as he remembered reading that the magical versions had double the amount of fuel due to expanded tanks, and that the crews were made up of Yokai who used their animal forms inside. The larger ones, from what he could see, were likely around Maruyu's hull in displacement though more streamlined, some looking slightly less advanced than others. They were eating as much as they could, while glancing at Iku and the others who seemed curious even as Taigei mothered them and the other Submarines.

Granted, he was confused about why Taigei had chopped I-353 in the head when she as grinned strangely at him and ate a fried piece of Karaage slowly, followed by a growling Hachi grabbing her.

Shaking that off, Harry turned to the other shipgirls there. Kusumi was eating slowly and seemed to be taking internal notes about what she was eating, while Mihara seemed to be more in thought as her and a happy Akashi spoke to one another. Every once in a while, she glanced at Harry and shot him a smile as well as a nod, which he returned.

When it came to the last group though? He had long since placed Miitake under the "Genki" type of girl. Energetic and happy, she was eating her food quickly, practically inhaling it though she seemed to be enjoying it. Meanwhile, her older sister was eating fast, though not as much as Miitake was. Ishikari, though, seemed to be taking the time to taste the food fully before swallowing... between admonishments of her younger sister. Denryuu seemed to be more methodical in her eating, savouring each bit even as her and a somewhat shy Taihou exchanged looks. Noticing Harry, she softly smiled before turning back to her sister.

As to the Twins?

Much like he expected for the two, Ume and Sakura were making their way through their food with grace and elegance as befitting two girls raised in Japanese nobility. At the same time, their movements mirrored each other perfectly as they ate with small smiles on their faces. Every so often, one of them would quietly speak with their brother who sat beside them on the makeshift bench that they were on. But other than that, they quietly ate without a motion out of place as they did so. Though they did shoot Harry the odd look with a smile.

Slowly though, the food began to run out. Granted, the Battlecruisers and Carrier had seconds and thirds of soup, while Sakura and Ume had fourths and fifths before they had enough to settle their hunger for now... Until, that was, Harry pulled out a final box and opened it to reveal melon pan inside, "Here, a small bit of dessert."

Rubbing her hands together, Miitake gave him a grin as she licked her lips and took two, "Excellent! Definitely giving you huggles for this!"

Merely sighing, her sister shook her head before also taking two. Soon enough, each of the newly summoned there had taken some and eaten it, with Ume and Sakura bowing to him once they were finished and he put everything away including the three empty thermos, "Thank you, Harry-Chan. That was most enjoyable."

Chuckling, Harry scratched the back of his head, "You're welcome, all of you." He just gave a shrug before winking with a grin, "Just wait until after you get your briefing. That will be a meal."

Out of the corner of their eyes, the Twins could see the Duckies clench their hands in front of their faces with awed and fearful looks. Softly giggling, Sakura gave a nod, "We'll be looking forward..." Realizing what she was about to say, she looked at herself, "W-wait... so this means that we can truly leave?"

Hands behind his head, Harry smiled, "Hai, at least according to what I was told." Noticing something, he frowned, "Ume-Chan? Sakura-Chan? Are you alright?"

Gently wiping at their eyes, the Twins shook their heads, "We're fine, Harry-Chan. Just... a bit overwhelmed at the moment." They then gave him a watery smile, "Thank you."

In return, Harry just gave them another smile and shrug.

Flashing him a smile, Ume then turned to Goto and bowed a little, "If we may make a request, Teitoku?" At his nod, she continued, "We would like to request a large number of vegetable seeds for our use."

With a glance to Ooyodo, Goto raised an eyebrow, "I do not see an issue with not allowing that. Though may I ask why?"

Sakura glanced at her sister and spoke with a slight nod, "Among other things, the base here had areas given over to grow vegetables. Particularly in the caldera's inner rim where things could not be built normally. It seems that we have... access to such places with our rigging." She then gestured at herself and her sister, "With seeds, we can grow vegetables to help feed our... crew, I think that they could be termed?" After a moment of thought, the former Hitobashira nodded, "In any case, we can give them food and so bring down what we need to consume."

Blinking at that, Ooyodo went over it in her head before nodding, "Yes, I think that could work out very well..." Seeing Kusumi raise her hand, the Light Cruiser raised an eyebrow, "Yes?"

Unsure, the Food Ship wrung her hands before glancing at her sister who nodded. With a deep breath, she let it out, "I... would like some seeds as well." At the looks of surprise, Kusumi continued, "I have a few rooms with artificial sunlight in them and expanded insides. The idea being to grow fresh food for troops and sailors... though, um, not that much..."

Ooyodo was surprised at that and glanced at Goto who also seemed surprised. But then, she nodded and smiled, "That would be appreciated in any case." Internally, she was sighing, 'That will help quite a bit with resources...'

Getting to their feet, the Twins looked at each other and then bowed to Admiral Goto as well as the others, "We're afraid that there is one last thing that we wish to do and something we wish to gather before we leave." While curious, the Admiral nodded and they turned to Harry, "Harry-Chan? If you, Akatsuki-Sama, Inazuma-Sama, Ikazuchi-Sama, Hibiki-Sama, and Tenryuu-Sama as well as Tatsuta-Sama would follow us..."

More than a little curious, the group followed the two as they walked back into the ruins until they reached their little hut. Something that Harry raised an eyebrow at, especially when the Twins summoned their rigging and took a step forward before placing a hand each on the building. There was a moment when the hut seemed to swirl in a way that made one's eyes hurt a little and then vanished. Eyes wide, Inazuma waved her arms around, "Hwawawa! It's gone, Nanodesu!"

Rapidly blinking, Harry looked at Sakura and Ume who seemed happy as they dismissed their rigging, "What happened to it?"

Lightly blushing, Sakura placed a hand against her chest, "We... took it into our rigging. There was an empty lot here back when the base was active. We simply... transferred it from here to there in our rigging to keep it safe."

Unable to help himself, Harry grinned, "Wicked."

Giggling, the Twins simply nodded before walking towards him. Sakura and Ume each took a side before clasping his hands, "Let... let us leave this place."

In return, Harry just nodded and gave their hands a squeeze. Only a few minutes later found the Twins and Harry in front of the Vanishing Cabinet. Both of them looked nervous before they felt a gentle squeeze of their hands and looked to see Harry giving them a warm smile, "I'll be right here."

For a few moments, they looked into his eyes before their fingers moved, interlacing with his. Sakura then answered for the both of them, "Hai... you are."

There was something in the tone that she delivered those words in that made Harry wonder, but he decided to think it over later. Instead, the three stepped into the Vanishing Cabinet together and the Twins closed the doors with trembling hands. As usual, there was not really a sense of movement and a part of Harry could not help but note the two female bodies pressed close. Mostly out of nervousness as he could feel them trembling some. For the Twins, they were scared. After all, they had been on that island for nearly a hundred years, stuck and imprisoned. Yet now, they have been given the chance to be free, to live their lives fully...

And as they looked at the thirteen year old between them, they smiled because it was all due to him.

Suddenly, they could somehow sense the island being a distance away and there was a click before Harry nodded at it with a smile though his voice was soft... understanding, "Go on... just push."

With trembling hands, the two girls did exactly that and opened the doors to find themselves in an underground room. In a corner, behind a desk sat a young girl, one of the Riverine Gunboats. Useful for duties like guarding the Vanishing Cabinets and the like. It was somewhere else...

Somewhere far and away from their island.

Noticing tears coming from their eyes, the Gunboat gave Harry a look, only to receive a shake of the head from him. Gently, he helped the Twins out of the Cabinet and onto the floors. Looking up at them, the wizard softly smiled, "Welcome to Yokosuka... and the rest of your new lives, Sakura-Chan, Ume-Chan."

Both of them look him in the eyes before smiling mysteriously, "Yes... the rest of our lives." And once more, the two give him a kiss with Ume first and then Sakura before pulling back from the somewhat stunned looking Harry, something that they giggle briefly at, "Thank you again, Harry-Chan... for everything."

None of the three notice the Gunship give them an amused raised eyebrow and they stand there waiting until the others came through.

Once they had and were in front of them, Sakura and Ume glanced at the two B-65s as well as Denryuu and Mihara. The four nodded and came up to stand beside the Twins, two on either side as Harry walked off to stand nearby. Taking a deep breath, Ume began to speak, "We... cannot even begin to say what we are feeling. We were trapped there, on that island in the case of Nee-San and I for nearly a century, the others for around seventy years. And both I and Nee-San knew we would be there for centuries more."

A small, soft smile on her face, Sakura glanced at Harry, "But... you all changed that. First, Haru-Sama, Junyou-Sama, and Ryuujou-Sama alongside Natsumi-San and Harry-Chan placed purifying Ofuda around the Caldera, banishing the darkness and breaking the bonds that held so many spirits there..."

Right then, Denryuu spoke up, her gaze full of something soft as she gazed upon Harry, "Harry-Chan here dove into each of our hulls, alone except for some fairies from Enterprise-Sama. And he placed those Ofuda in our lower decks. I... remember hearing the Marines that accompanied him on the decks above water talking about how creepy my hull was... and Harry-Chan stated it was not creepy... merely sad."

For once, Miitake was utterly serious, "Hai! And thanks to that, we were able to come back and help... And do it for the right reasons." Suddenly, she grinned, "And huggles!"

Slapping her face, Ishikari just sighed before turning back to the amused crowd, "But... the final step needed was all of you helping us. Coming to our island prison so that we could be free."

Mihara slowly nodded with a thankful smile upon her face, "Now... now we are free at last. We're not held back by our past, not by our builders, and not by the darkness. We are finally free."

Almost as one, the six Caldera girls all bowed deeply to those there, "Thank you for helping us."

Those there just bowed back as they spoke, "You are very welcome."

When they stood back up, they gave the group applause before Ai walked up and gave Sakura a pat on the shoulder, "We're just glad that you're all free."

Taking an ordered Kleenex from Harry, Ume nodded as she wiped her eyes free of tears, "Thank you..."

Several seconds passed before Miitake pumped her fist, "Alright! Now for what is important!" Twisting, she leapt at a surprised Harry, "Time for Huggles!"

While various people snickered, laughed, giggled, or chuckled, Ishikari sighed and pinched her nose, "Nee-San..."
________________________________________________________________

Due to the number of shipgirls who had been summoned, instead of his Office, Goto used instead one of the conference rooms. Looking around the large room, Denryuu ran a hand along the polished wooden surface of the table in front of her, which was shiny enough to see her reflection looking back at her. At a throat clearing, she looked up to find Goto smiling at them all from across the table with Nagato, Kongou, and Ooyodo having taken places up beside him. Just nodding, the Admiral gave a small sigh, "Thank each and every one of you for returning. Trust me, we deeply appreciate it."

Arms crossed, Miitake grinned, "How could we not? We were built to defend Japan from her enemies! And this time they're of the right sort!" She then shrugged, "And besides... Harry-Chan asked for us to come back."

Giving a sigh, Ishikari frowned at her sister only to lightly flush at the knowing look from her. Quickly, she looked away and scratched her cheek, "Well... he did ask. And, um... he went to a lot of trouble to let us be able to..."

Her younger sister grinned before stage whispering over the table, "She's like one of those... what do you call it? Tsunderes? Like that at times."

Now heavily blushing, the other Battlecruiser bopped her on the head. Only shaking his head at their antics, Goto became serious before glancing at the Twins as well as the two B-65, Denryuu, and Mihara, "While I know that you know most of what will be spoken about in regards to why you have come back, the others do not."

Slowly, Kusumi raised her hand up with an unsure look on her face, "I... will admit to wondering that myself. No offense, Teitoku, but... when I sank, No-Majs like yourself did not know about magic. Yet, you were able to perform a ritual of great power to bring us forth." She looked at her hands with confusion, though wonder, "And I am wondering how we are like this in the first place."

Leaning forward, I-353 gave a giggle, "Not that I mind too much~ Perhaps a reward is in order-"

Before she was finished, Denryuu whacked her upside the head and frowned, "Harry-Chan is not for lewding." When the Submarine opened her mouth, the Carrier narrowed her eyes, "I know what you were going to say.'

With a small shrug, the Subgirl hummed and leaned back in her chair. Internally sighing since very likely she would be around Yokosuka for some time, Nagato stood up, "There are reasons for such. Mainly revolving around a war that has been going on for the better part of a decade across the oceans of the world..."

Having gotten their attention, Nagato slid folders across to each of them outside the six Caldera girls who already knew. She also brought up the projector to show them via slides and over the next twenty minutes, she explained things alongside the other Secretary Ships and Goto himself. Once she was done, she simply waited while the newly summoned shipgirls digested that.

For several moments, Sakura looked down at the paper in front of her before meeting Goto's eyes, "So that is why no friendly Abyssal ever visited our island..."

Very slowly, the Admiral nodded, "Hai, we were worried that if one did, you might well spontaneously have become an Abyssal Installation due to what happened there. Something that should no longer be a danger, of course."

All Sakura did was nod in reply to that.

One of the smaller Submarines raised her hand and chewed her lip with an unsure look on her face, "Um... Teitoku? I'm not sure how much good we could do, but..." Glancing at her sisters, the Tanuki gave a nod, "We'll do our best!"

The other Ko-hyoteki Submarines gave their own nods and the like, which made Goto smile, "Thank you, but you can do quite a bit in the form of coastal patrols and the like. And as I said, we're glad to have you."

Frowning, Kusumi furrowed her eyebrows and gave a small nod, "I... think that I can help? I'm not sure how much help my potions will be, but I can make them."

With a slight nod, Ooyodo smiled at her, "They can be of great help, though I would ask that you speak with Harry since he has been making potions for us shipgirls for some time now."

Surprised at that, the Food Ship became thoughtful and nodded.

That done, Nagato turned towards the Twins with a sigh, "While we wish that there was another way, and would not like to ask..."

Both former Hitobashira gave her smiles, "You do not need to worry, Nagato-Sama, we do not mind helping. We can be of great help after all as needed and besides..." They shared a look before turning back to her with a small smile and blush, "We could use the practice for the future."

Lips twitching, Nagato leaned forwards with a chuckle, "I assume that you mean in regards to my son."

It was a question, not a statement, but Sakura and Ume nodded nonetheless. Then, Ume chewed her lip, "We... might be able to help quite a bit in that case as..." Glancing at her sister, she frowned, "We might be able to repair our old base by overlaying our rigging on it, making it like it had been before it was destroyed."

That made eyebrows raise and Goto fixed them with a look, "Are you stating that it might be possible for you both to make the base as it appeared in the 1940s?" At their nods, he leaned back, "Now that is rather interesting as some of my superiors had been considering building a base on your island..."

Hands clasped in front of her face, Kongou gave a hum, "Very interesting, Dess. Especially with some plans that we have had."

For her part, the lone Light Cruiser gave the Fast Battleship a look before turning back to the group and making some notes, "Of course, before we go further we would like to know what we are dealing with and your capabilities..."

Slowly, one of the Ko-hyoteki raised her hand, "Um, I'm He-2, Teitoku. And my sisters and I, well... We don't have much compared to our No-Maj sisters. Just... more air and longer range since we have expanded fuel tanks. About... twice the range of our non-magical sisters?" Then she perked up, "Oh! And we can also go twice as deep due to the strengthening charms on our hulls."

Eyebrow raised, Goto nodded some before frowning, "That is both impressive and very useful. But before we go further... He-2?"

It was Ume who answered though, "Hai, to prevent confusion with the No-Maj Navy, the Kamo Government and Navy instead used the other parts of Iroha. Large Submarines such as Iku-San built for magicals would have used Ni in front of their names, our Medium Submarines used Ho, and Support Submarines such as I-353 would use To in front of their number."

Considering that, Goto hummed, "Were there many Support Submarines?"

Both Twins furrowed their eyebrows in thought before frowning, "There were two based on the I-351 Classes, but designed around resupplying other Submarines. They had expansion charms in certain places inside the hulls to help carry more supplies and act as Submarine Tenders. But they were built at another Dockyard as were a number of I-361 types."

Head tilted to the side, Ooyodo made some notes before turning towards the older looking Midget Submarines, "If I may ask your classes? Though you do resemble the Ha-201 Class."

One of them nodded before smiling, "I am Ho-1 and our design was based off the Submarine No.71 from what I know as a mass production. Like the others, we have strengthening charms on our hull and expanded fuel tanks, but also charms on our propellers to suck in more water to help us be faster." She thrust out her chest a little in pride, which considering she looked ten almost made Nagato coo, "We're really fast Submarines since we got better engines, twenty one knots!"

With a small nod, one of the others smiled, "And I am Ho-21, based off the Ha-201 Class, with much the same charm work for myself and my sisters."

Stroking her chin, Ooyodo made a note, "So there were many of you?"

The small Subgirls shared a look before nodding, with Ho-21 frowning slightly, "Hai, I have twenty sisters."

Needless to say, that raised eyebrows and they turned to Sakura and Ume who gave a nod, "Hai, there was a small production facility in the base. They would be built in a large warehouse and transported into the water via marine railway." Considering for a few moments, they gave a small nod, "We think that it could be used to repair up to Destroyer sized vessels by using the railway to being them out of the water."

Intrigued, Goto leaned forward, "What sort of facilities do you have with you?"

For several moments, the two former Hitobashira thought about things before nodding, "We have a full ore processing plant capable of turning ore into metal as well as smelting with a power plant, a foundry capable of building most ship parts needed, four dry docks capable of up to Yamato sized ships, and two Marine railways which can lift up to Destroyer tonnage out of the water. We also have plans for at least one floating dry dock, though it would take time to build it." Seeing the stunned looks, they blushed, "It... is not much, but..."

Clearing his throat, the Admiral waved them off, "No, no, that is plenty, thank you." Leaning back, he fought back a small grin, 'Yes... this could change quite a bit...'
 
The Mill On The Meuse 7 [Verdun]
Yellowhammer

The Mill On The Meuse (VII)

Castle Moulbaix

May 6th, 2014


Colombe du Chasteler ceremoniously and somewhat drunkenly turned over the empty brandy snifters to rest upside down on the cloth napkins on her desk next to the empty bottle.

She looked at Tsukiakari. "Well that's it. The flying carpet is ready for us to take to Souilly to drop off Madeline Aetios to lead the ritual while the rest of us head into the belly of the beast."

She walked over to the sword rack and buckled her rapier to her side. "Time to go."

Behind her the flames flared green. "Not without me you are not, Daughter!"

Colombe's head snapped around and her jaw dropped at her father's suntanned avatar wearing nothing but a string bikini printed with the Imperial Japanese Rising Sun.

Colombe stared at Norimune, to be matched by a firm glare from the elder Muramasa.
Spoiler: There Is A Butterknife In Moulbaix They Call The Rising Sun...
kyla_rising_sun_bikini_by_apwr04-db30y18.png


Colombe shook her head. "Only if you agree to follow my leadership, Father."

Norimune stared into her oldest daughter's eyes for long moments. "Agreed. Fill me in."

Colombe turned to Tsukiakari. "Tell the others. Norimune and I will be down in a second after I raid my closet for clothes for Father to wear. This won't be a walk at the beach."

"Hai!" Tsukiakari sprinted out the door as Colombe and Norimune headed to her room. As they entered, Claire began to play a hammering bass piece in time with Ehren's footsteps leaving her room.
Spoiler: Prelude To Verdun

"Short version is in 1916 during the Battle of Verdun, the spirit of that place was corrupted. I don't know whether it was the slaughter there, the magic I and the other wizards threw around, or what, but it came back wrong. It hungers for everything it can devour, endlessly." Colombe threw open her wardrobe and tossed an 'AMERICA-BACK TO BACK WORLD WAR CHAMPS' T-shirt at Norimune. "When the war ended, I and the other survivors from the Entente managed to put it to sleep and established a network of wards across the area of the battle to keep it from waking up. The linchpin ward on Le Mort Homme failed, and in two weeks, probably timed when Le Mort Homme fell to the Germans after they and we bled ourselves white on its slopes there's going to be another pulse of necromantic energies like the one that happened three days ago centered on Cote 304 over one hill. If we don't get the ward up, I don't know what will happen, but it could easily be an an Abyssal Princess with a quarter-million army of the unhallowed dead who died there coming for me and my family."

"Fuck me running." Norimune muttered as she pulled on the T-shirt and a pair of sweat pants.

"My thoughts exactly. Worse yet, the last pulse turned a two kilometer radius circle centered on Le Mort Homme into a replica of what it was like in 1916 when it ate men by the tens of thousands. With more Inferi and undead than I recall. Probably the same level of nonstop drumfire artillery barrages and poison gas, though. I won't blame you if you back out now." Colombe's voice was tightly controlled as she dug through a drawer for socks.

"Like Hell I'll let you face that alone. Wait. You were there in 1916?!" Norimune spoke, looking at her eldest child in a new light.

Colombe spoke with a haunted expression. "I still go up there in my nightmares. I was there in April and May 1916 and Tsukiakari, the sword who I was with was present there on Ian Potter's hip for stretches, so we can hopefully navigate the trench network to the top. If it hasn't been blown to bits by the preparatory barrages again. Anyway, for my mortal and grievous sins, I am leading the effort to reach the monument at the apex, Tsukiakari's my second if I fall, and Nightbane is the third as the only other one of us with experience in the Great War."

Norimune grimaced as she pulled on the socks and a pair of work boots. "It sounds like a shitshow and then some. Just us then?"

"Thank all the kami and God no. Me, Del, Zamarad, Ying, Ehren, Tokunotakai, Tsukiakari, Nightbane, Sabah, and Andraste are going to be the forward team who storm Le Mort Homme. Professor Aetios, my old Charms instructor and the person who taught me some of the spells I used a century ago to handle it the first time is going to lead a ritual team from General Petain's old HQ in Souilly to slam the door on it once we get one of her talismans to the top to use as a focus."

Norimune followed Colombe down the stairs in the great hall two at a time as the piano playing picked up pace. "I know you, Delilah, Ying, Tokunotakai, and Tsukiakari. Who are the others?"

"Zamarad is an Ifrit and a bit of a package deal with Delilah. I have known her since 1942." Colombe responded.

"Useful. Those things are nasty as fuck to fight. Wonder how she hooked up with Delilah?" Norimune mused.

"You will have to ask one of them, Father. Nightbane is a bayonet who served in the Great War and other places and wound up in the Potter Armory. Sabah is a medieval scimitar that the Potters picked up somehow, she's their stealth expert. Andraste is a shield spirit and the plan is to have her provide a base of fire if we have to fight our way up. Ehren," Colombe's voice broke, "is my youngest daughter, she is the spirit of a SS-Ehrendolch dagger and this will be her first combat."

Norimune stopped halfway across the marble tiles of the floor. "No shit!?"

Colombe turned to face her father. "No shit. Ehren argued me into it. She is the only one available who can represent the Germans in this ritual attempt save for her sister Claire who is totally unsuitable." Tears trickled down the rapier's pale cheeks. "I don't have the right to ask you this, truly, but..."

Norimune stepped forward and clapped Colombe on her shoulder. "I'll protect her as best I can."

"Merci." Colombe whispered as she opened the door to the outside.

----------------------------------

In an upstairs room lit only by candlelight, a piano spirit's tears fell like rain upon the ivory and ebony of her keys as her fingers poured out her heart and soul while her family went to war to protect her.
Spoiler: Claire Prays

----------------------------------

Colombe and Norimune headed to the waiting flying carpet. Ehren stood at the edge of it, helping lash a pair of chests to the carpet. "What are those, Ehren?"

"Mutti, the one carved with skeletons is from the Potter Manor and contains Catherine of the Grave's talismans to protect us from the walking dead."

Colombe nodded approvingly. "And the other?"

"Delilah and Zamarad arranged for us to acquire gas masks, body armor, and some helmets, Mutti!"

Gloversville National Guard Armory, Gloversville, Fulton County New York

"So let me get this straight, Sarge. Last night parties unknown cut through the locks on the doors with an acetelyne torch without showing up on the security cameras or lighting up the neighborhood, headed to our storeroom, cut the security door to the arsenal open, got inside, and stole a dozen MOPP suits, a dozen IOTVs, same amount of battle rattle and helmets, and two cases of MREs and bottled water while leaving the ammunition and guns totally untouched?!?"

"And they are all in women's sizes, sir. I have seen some shit in my time, but this takes the cake."

"No shit, Sarge, the brass aren't going to believe this."

"Yessir, this is some next-level X-files shit. I already notified HQ, the MPs and Military Intelligence, Ell-Tee."

"Jesus, that fucking security door is a half-inch of reinforced and hardened steel and these fuckers melted it open like a hot knife through butter."

"Tell me about it."

--------------------------------------

Souilly, Department of the Meuse
Spoiler: The Voie Sacrée

The flying carpet glided to a halt just outside a small farming village. Below the gathered heroes a road stretched through the village heading north and south.

Before 1916, it had been just another secondary farm road like any other in the world.

But 1916 had changed that. The only road that could not be interdicted by artillery fire that led into Verdun, it would be forever known as the Voie Sacrée, the Sacred Way that had linked Bar-le-Duc and France to the battlefield where the fate of nations would be decided. Day and night, nonstop for eight endless months, one truck filled with supplies, ammunition, or men would pass any given spot on the 72 kilometer roadway every fourteen seconds to feed the monster at the end.

Here, 21 kilometers from the killing fields where his men bled and died in desperate defense, hopeless counterattacks, fanatical resistance, and finally exhausted triumph, General Philippe Pétain had his headquarters in the town hall that fronted the road. Often he would stand on the steps as he watched the endless procession of men head up to the front where the guns thundered ceaselessly.

Here, on April 9th 1916, when for the first time his men had absorbed a hammerblow aimed at Le Mort Homme and Cote 304 and managed to fight the might of the German army to a standstill in a day that saw the Crown Prince's guns shoot over seventeen ammunition trains worth of artillery shells and absorb casualties numbering in the tens of thousands, he would pen the Order of the Day and finish it by paraphrasing Joan of Arc's words from five centuries before.

"Courage, On les aura! "

Courage, We shall get them.

Here, Medea of Colchis slid from the flying carpet. She handed Colombe a coin pouch. "Everyone take and wear one. When you reach the breach, snap the chain and place the coin as close as possible to the breach. That will alert me to begin the ritual of warding."

Colombe nodded and pulled out the first Athenian obol coin strung on a golden chain and put it around her neck after handing the pouch to her oldest daughter. "Coins to pay the ferryman of Hades for those who die then? Fitting."
Spoiler: Charon's Fee
Tetradrachm_Athens_450_reverse_CdM_Paris.jpg


Ehren handed the now-empty coin pouch back to Medea. As she did that, Colombe looked at the others and guided the carpet north up the Voie Sacrée toward the awakening Mill on the Meuse.

The rapier squared her shoulders and whispered to herself as Verdun approached with each beat of her racing heart.

"Courage, On Les Aura..."
 
Abyssal Hippie Stoner
Savato93

BadHabits said:
Abyssal Hippie Stoner​
Great, now my muse is woke.

XXXXX

Splayed out belly-up on a park bench, it took several seconds for the Ta-class's brain to register the human police surrounding her, weapons at the ready. "Oh... hey, there," She said slowly, looking over the humans one by one with a distant expression as she picked herself up. "What's up...?"

She'd done away with the armored pauldrons typical for her kind, and her sailor shirt looked like it had had tie-dye colors sloppily applied to it. A wreath of flowers sat on her head, and the glow of her eyes was noticeably duller than it should be... likely a side-effect of the joint clutched loosely between her fingers.

The officer in charge stepped forward. "Er... do you mind telling us what exactly you're doing here, ma'am?" He asked nervously.

The Ta-class thought the question over for a bit, pausing to take a hit from her weed. "Well... I think I was tryna' set fire to some weird crop field I came across... fuck with your people's logistics... but once the plants started burning, the fumes... they started getting to my head. And... I kinda liked it." She let out a deep, relaxed sigh, blowing out a lungful of smoke. "All the rage, this anger in me... it just faded away. For the first time I can remember, I was able to just stop and think about what I was supposed to be doing."

The Ta-class shrugged. "And I realized... why bother with any of it? You humans are soft, and flimsy, and short-lived. Even if you're not killed in some accident... or by each other... I'm gonna still be around long after you all die. So why put my life at risk trying to speed things up?" She held up her joint. "Just lay back, stop worrying, and whatever happens, happens. That's how I'd rather live, now."

With that, the Abyssal closed her eyes and laid back once more, drifting into a nap. One of the police officers turned to the commander. "Uh... so, what exactly do we do here, sir?"

The sergeant shook his head slowly. "No fucking clue. There are nonagressive Abyssals, and then there's... this."
 
Talking with Akiyama
Harry Leferts

"Harry-San?"

Blinking as he heard his name called, Harry turned from where he placed a bowl of butadon into a box with several others and closed the box. Quickly placing a Ofuda to put the food into stasis, Harry walked up to the counter and found Akiyama there and bowed, "Akiyama-San."

The older man bowed back and seemed to be amused by the sight of Harry in an apron, "Ah, Harry-San... would it be possible if we were to speak privately about certain matters?"

One eyebrow raised, Harry gave a small nod, "Of course, I have a cake baking anyways so I can spare some time." With a glance and a nod towards one of the cooks, he walked back and placed his apron back before walking outside the kitchen, "Shall we find a spot for privacy?"

Akiyama glanced towards his family and gave a small nod before walking outside with Harry. Within a few minutes, the two found a bench that Harry could sit down on and the older wizard looked out over the base and took a deep breath, "Ah, these bones of mine are getting too old. Always needing to rest."

Lips twitching, the thirteen year old chuckled, "One is only as old as they feel, Akiyama-San."

With a small chuckle, Akiyama gave him a look, "Then I am quite old with how old I sometimes feel. Especially with recent events in politics... though that can stay away for now. I wish to speak with you about more important matters."

Harry gave the slightest nod, "Ume-Chan and Sakura-Chan."

Softly smiling, the old wizard hummed, "Yes, my Onee-Samas." With a deep breath, he let it out, "Harry-San, I cannot express my gratitude for what you have done for my Onee-Samas and my family by extension. Just having allowed for me to see them, to speak to them despite being Yuurei was far more than I had ever hoped for."

Only shaking his head, Harry shook his head, "Maybe, but they wanted to see their Otouto once more. And, well, seeing them as happy as they were was far more worth anything that I could have done."

There was an odd gleam in Akiyama's gaze, "Hai, I understood that you thought as much from the first time we met. One would think that you were a strange man, Harry-San. But... I think otherwise." Ignoring the confusion on Harry's face, he looked back towards the sky with clouds passing overhead, "But still, what you did took great courage and strength of soul. Yet... you did not stop there. While metaphorical, you have moved the heavens themselves to give my Onee-Samas a second chance at a life. And now... they're back, alive and safe..." His voice grew softer, almost a whisper, "My beloved Onee-Samas are back because of you. I can once more hold them truly in my arms, feel their warmth embracing me, filled with their love and care."

Not saying anything, the teen's lips curled slightly into a smile.

Seeing that, Akiyama laughed, "They're back! And more importantly they're not just back, but also free of their prison..." He continued to laugh with tears prickling at his eyes, "More than back, they are now Kami, Harry-San! Kami!" Turning, the old wizard had a look of wonderment on his face, "Kami... As I always saw them to be worthy of."

Lips twitching, Harry considered the two teenage girls they were speaking of, "I can see it."

However, the other wizard shook his head, "Perhaps you can, Harry-San. But my Onee-Samas... I cannot say how important it is for me to see them smile, to laugh, and be free and alive once more. When I was a young child, they were always there for me. Not Haha-ue, not Chichi-ue... my Onee-Samas were, with a hug and a smile as well as words of encouragement. I will state with honesty, that I would not be the man that I am today if not for them and their kindness..." Voice dropping, there was pure hurt and grief in his tone, "Which, I suppose, made it all the harder when I came home from school that day when I was on the cusp of becoming a teen to find them gone. Gone and everyone pretending as if they had not existed." Beside him, Harry did not say anything, simply letting Akiyama continue, "I always saw that day a mockery to me. It was sunny and warm, an early summer day. To me, it always should have been cold and rainy, weather for my cruel discovery..."

Part of the teen could almost see it in his mind, a young boy standing there before an empty room with tears running down his face. It was... heartbreaking. But there was one thing that made it better... "But they're back now."

Smile returning to his face, Akiyama hummed, "Hai, my Onee-Samas have returned." After several moments, he turned back to Harry, "And it is because of you. As I said, you moved the very Heavens for them, to bring them back when you had the chance."

Green eyes met the brown older ones of Akiyama as Harry looked at him. Then the thirteen year old gave a small nod, "Hai, and I would do it again. If needed, I would move not just the Heavens, but all of the Earth and the Hells to have done so. Because..." Turning away, he paused for a few seconds, "Because Ume-Chan and Sakura-Chan are my friends. And for them, I would do anything to make them happy, safe, and okay. Free as well in this case."

A soft smile on his face, Akiyama gave a nod, "I believe you." With a soft sigh, he shook his head, "But still, Harry-San. My family owes a great debt of gratitude for what you have done. And my debt to you runs deeper still."

Turning towards him, Harry smiled, "As far as I am concerned? For as long as Ume-Chan and Sakura-Chan are happy and smiling as well as cared for, than the debt is fulfilled. That is the only price that I might have for such."

Widely grinning, the older man laughed before shaking his head, "Truly, you are quite the odd young man, Harry-San. But with a great amount of honour as well, true honour and not that fake stuff that so many think of." Calming down, he gave Harry a look, "But you need not worry about such things, for I will make certain of it. And besides..." Akiyama once more had a mysterious smile on his face and a knowing look in his eyes, "Yet, I do believe I know how to make such a thing happen which will leave my Onee-Samas very happy indeed."

Even though Harry gave him a curious look, the other wizard said no more on that subject. Instead, the teen shrugged slightly, "Then I am glad." Much to his confusion, that got another laugh from Akiyama before they both stood. As he patted himself off, Harry glanced at the older man, "If it is not too much to ask... what happens now?"

Softly chuckling as they walked back towards the Mess Hall, Akiyama smiled, "Well, from what I have heard from Goto-San, my Onee-Samas need to stay for a time in order to get settled spiritually after their recent transformation. Once that is done, I can bring them home as their situation does not mean that they need to stay on base as long as they can be quickly brought here. Which is why I need to ask you for a favor, Harry-San."

Curious, the thirteen year old merely nodded, "Okay? What sort of favor, Akiyama-San?'

Akiyama turned to him with a slight tilt of the head, "Would you not be able to get me in contact with those who are making the Vanishing Cabinets to see if they would be able to produce a pair? I shall buy a small home here, I think, and place one of the pair there and the other shall go to the Clan compound in Kyoto so that my Onee-Samas can travel back and forth as they please."

Just considering that, Harry gave a nod, "I can do that, and ask them if they know where any others might be if you want. They're nearly done with the orders that Kyoto had, right?"

Humming, the older wizard smiled, "Hai, they are nearly done. And we have just about finished the construction of the transportation areas. One in Hokkaido, two on Honshu at either the northern and southern ends, one on Shikoku, and the final one in Kyushu. All of them to transport anyone that needs it back and forth from the mainland to Mahoutokoro... and each one able to fit ten students at a time within them." Briefly, his expression fell before he shook it off, Harry understanding why, "So I suppose that they will soon be able to take other orders."

For a few moments, Harry thought it over and gave a nod, "I don't see why they wouldn't. And they're very happy with their business and how it is going so far."

Slightly smiling, Akiyama simply gave a slight tilt of the head, "That would be very good, Harry-San." He suddenly snapped his fingers, "Ah! And before I forget, you, too, may make use of the Vanishing Cabinets to come and visit whenever you want. I am certain that my Onee-Samas would enjoy such."

Part of Harry suspected that there was something else there, but soon shrugged it off. Probably just his imagination really. And even if it wasn't, it was not likely to be that important...

Right?
____________________________________________________________

Giggles escaped from Sakura and Ume before they noticed their younger brother giving them a raised eyebrow at the Mess Hall table. Lightly blushing, they smiled bashfully which made him raise his eyebrow still further, "And what seems to be so funny, Onee-Samas?"

Both of the Twins shared a look before giggles escaped them and they pointed, "What Harry-Chan is doing right now."

Chuckles escaped Akiyama as he noticed Harry place large bowls in front of Akizuki, Teruzuki, and Hatsuzuki. All three Destroyers stared at the beef bowls, each big enough that a grown man would not have been able to finish them, in pure awe. Unable to help himself, Akiyama shook his head, "Yes, I suppose that is quite good." Taking a bite of how own beef bowl, he gave a hum, "Though I must admit, Harry-San is quite the good cook."

Humming, Ume nodded before she resumed eating her own rice bowl. For her part, Sakura smiled as she daintily chewed some pork before swallowing, "Hai, Harry-Chan is quite the good cook."

There was a look of mischievousness on their younger brother's face which was all the warning that they got before his next words, "Indeed, and I can see you enjoying it much more in the future."

Feeling the rising heat in their cheeks, the Twins gave him a glare, "Aki-Kun!"

Not bothered in the slightest as he ate a noodle, Akiyama nodded slightly, "Yes, though I do suppose that perhaps I should help him. Maybe give him a list of your favorite foods and how to prepare them? Hmm, yes..."

It went without saying that Sakura and Ume were now blushing deeply, something that ruined their glares. Huffing a bit, they turned away before their eyes softened as they caught Harry place some more food in front of a thankful Midget Submarine who thanked him and got a hair ruffle in return. Sighing, Ume shook her head slightly before turning to Akiyama, "About Harry-Chan..."

Lips twitching into a smile, their little brother chuckled, "I have spoken to him already, Onee-Samas. Mainly telling him that our family has a great debt of gratitude to him and mine is even deeper." Blowing gently on some beef, he hummed after taking a bite of the tender meat before chewing and swallowing, "Yet, do you know what he stated after?"

More than a little intrigued, the Twins shook their heads, "No, what did Harry-Chan say after you told him this?"

Turning, Akiyama gave them both a smile, "He told me that as long as you are happy, safe, and free... then he would consider the debt paid. That was all he cared about..."

If anything, that caused the fading blush on Sakura's and Ume's cheeks to come back full force, with Sakura clearing her throat, "Harry-Chan said that? Truly?"

Rather amused at their reactions in the way that only a younger brother could be, Akiyama nodded with a chuckle, "Hai, that was his answer to me." Glancing towards the wizard that they were talking to, who had placed a new plate of food in front of Denryuu, getting thanked for it, he hummed, "It says something about such a young man. Our clan, our family is rather wealthy and powerful still politically. He could have asked for much... and yet, all he asked for..." Turning back to his sisters, Akiyama smiled, "Was for the two of you to be happy and that would cover the debt."

Blushes deepening, the Twins looked away and focused on the last bit of food in their bowls before finishing it. As they did so, Ume spoke for them both, "Harry-Chan... is special."

Sakura turned to her brother as he nodded with a interested look, "And what do you think of him, Aki-Kun?"

Not answering right away, Akiyama took a sip of tea, nodding to himself at the taste. Say what one might about the military, but their tea, at least for shipgirls, was not bad at all. Placing his cup down, he gave his sisters a nod and a smile, "I fully approve, as I told you before. Even if I had not made up my mind regarding Harry-San before now, what he's done this day? It would have made it up in a positive regards even without what he said during our talk. So yes, I do approve."

His older sisters gave him a happy smile before bowing slightly, "Thank you, Otouto."

Only smiling, he nodded to them and turned back to his meal. Before they got much further though, Harry arrived with the cart and looked at their empty bowls before taking them, "Want some more then? We got plenty if you want it."

Glancing at each other, Sakura and Ume had a silent conversation before turning back to him, "We would, if you could. Though we're not sure how much more we can eat..."

Lightly chuckling, Harry shook his head, "Go ahead and eat, no one will say anything. Besides..." He made a show of looking around before leaning towards them and stage whispering, "From what I have heard, one good thing about being a shipgirl is that one can eat as much as they want and never worry about their weight."

Unable to help themselves, the Twins giggled at that with twinkling eyes before nodding, "Very well then..."

With a small nod, Ume pointed at one of the bowls, "Could I please have the Tempura udon?"

Beside her, Sakura smiled, "And I think that I would like the Katsudon, please?"

Smiling, Harry chuckled and grabbed the two bowls chosen before setting them down, "Here you are. One large tempura udon and one katsudon. Nice and hot." Moments later though, he paused as both his cheeks felt warm as the two teenage girls kissed him there. Pulling back, they giggled as he blinked, "Um... thanks?"

However, they just shook their heads, "No, thank you."

Not long after, the Twins were very thankful for being able to put away food as Harry brought out parfaits made by Mamiya as well as chocolate cake that he had made. It went without saying, that all the newly summoned shipgirls were very happy as shown when Miitake once more glomped Harry for huggles.
 
The Mill On The Meuse 8 [Verdun]
Sidestory - Snippet 50: Yellowhammer

The Mill On The Meuse (VIII)

Chattancourt, Department of the Meuse

May 6th, 2014

Spoiler: The Deep Breath Before The Plunge

The sun was slowly setting as the flying carpet approached Chattancourt. Aboard it, Ehren du Chasteler shivered and bit her lip nervously.

She started slightly as she felt a hand on her shoulder. Callused fingers with scars from centuries of warfare and wandering and battles on five continents squeezed her reassuringly.

"{I hate the waiting too, kid. Once it starts, then it isn't as bad as the anticipation. But this part always gets me.}" Norimune spoke quietly in rusty archaic German.

"{Thank you, Grandmother. I worry that I will let Mutti and my family down. I... wish I was anywhere but here, honestly.}" Ehren whispered around the lump in her throat the size of the castle that she had grown up in.

Norimune looked over at Ehren as a trio of Aurors on brooms approached. "{Take it from me, kid, in the end, that is what the good ones fight for in the deep end of the shit. Our brothers and sisters, and those who become family with shed blood who you can rely on when it all goes to Hell. Damn how I miss them. Ichiro. Julie. Sally. Ben. Living when they all die can be a curse.}"

Ehren placed her slender and barely calloused hand over the battered hand of her grandmother and squeezed gently. "{Mutti says that when she speaks of some of her old comrades. What little I remember of Vati, he said too before,}" she closed her eyes to control her tears, "{before he left me. You... don't mind that I am what I am?}" Her hand reached down to caress the pommel of her SS-Ehrendolch true body worn openly on her hip.

Norimune laughed bitterly. "{Fuck no, I have a sister who wants to gut Delilah for wrecking her car. I have another sister who mindfucks people with terror on a semi-regular basis for her jollies. I bear maced Tsukiakari the first time we met. My kid sister Juuchi still wants to fillet Goldfish-brain Kyoshu for all the shit Kyo-chan did to her in the 'good old days'. Oh yeah and Ying nearly punched my ticket in Hong Kong in 1941.}"

Norimune looked over into Ehren's bulging eyes as Ying showed her badge and spoke to the Auror, who saluted. "{We are the Demon Blades of the Mad Smith who left a trail of blood and death across Japanese history. What's a little Nazi daddy in you compared to Chi-chan hacking her way through a daimyo's castle and the village outside who were celebrating a wedding back before she got religion?}"

Ehren's lips quirked in a brief uncontrolled smug grin mirroring Norimune's own. "{Thank you, Grandmother. For everything}"

Norimune sobered. "{Ehren, listen well. In there, there's no rules, and no points for second place or neatness. Kill or be killed, and you have a dark side just like me and my kids for a reason. Don't be afraid to embrace it to get an edge to survive.}"

Ehren nodded as the carpet landed and took a deep breath, her thumb caressing the double sieg-runes of victory that was the mark of the SS.

------------------------------------

Henri approached the carpet. "You came with her!" Around him witches and wizards frantically Reparoed the damaged village to hide the traces of Verdun's wrath.

Ying nodded. "I did. You have been informed of the plan?"

"Your team will enter the mists there with a talisman that will seal the breach in the wards." He half turned and pointed to the billowing gray-green fog bank that hung on the outskirts of town as it cut across a living history display of the trench system.

"In essence, yes. We also suspect that the next outbreak will be in two weeks time, and need to get this locked down and the other wards linked and reinforced before that happens." Ying said as Andraste and Sabah headed past her with Catherine's skeleton-carved chest.

"Wonderful. How do you do this?"

Colombe pointed to the trench display. "In there! It's in the same place relative to the town as it was in 1916. We gear up there and enter the Boyau de Chattancourt enroute to Ovrange Mollandin."
Spoiler: Gearing Up

Sabah opened the chest and an eerie blue-green light shone from Catherine's arsenal.

The Arabian spirit took out five rings carved from bone in the shape of a skull. Witchlight shone in their eyes. "These blind the eyes of the walking dead according to the Mistress."
Spoiler: Ring of the Blinded Dead
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Colombe nodded sharply. "Ehren, Zamarad, yourself, Tokunotakai, Nightbane get them. What else?"

Sabah took out a bowl of spectral lead bullets.

"Delilah." Colombe did not even allow Sabah to speak as Delilah hopped down into the trench alongside her.

The Arabian's eyes glittered as she pulled out a vial of sickly green glowing liquid. "Shadebane Elixir, a poison to the undead. I can make use of this."

"Bon. What's that mummified hand?"

Andraste reached in and fastened it around her wrist. "A spell focus for this." She incanted in Latin and a sword forged of ghostly flames formed in her grip.
Spoiler: Sword of Unburned Flame
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"Useful. Anything else?"

Sabah shook her head and began to expertly apply the Shadebane Elixir to her blade. "No."

Colombe turned to Delilah. "Your turn."

Delilah opened her box and began to hand out US Army-issue chemical warfare suits. "These should help with the gas, plus we keep Shield and Bubble-Head charms up at all times. I grabbed some helmets as well as harnesses and MREs."

Colombe began to pull hers on. "Do I want to know how you got your hands on them?"

Delilah grinned smugly as Zamarad laughed with the sound of burning houses. "Not really, no."

"Right then." Colombe raised her voice as she raised her gas mask to speak clearly. "Keep your mouth open at all times if possible, otherwise the concussion of the shells will rip your insides to pieces when it hits you. Stay low to the ground and be alert. Just remember that the shell with your name on it will blow you to bits no matter where you are, so staying still is a death sentence. If you get lost, head uphill from shellhole to shellhole. Our objective is the top."

Nightbane took out a Short Magazine Lee-Enfield rifle marked with the insignia of the RCMMP. He grinned happily as he loaded it after attaching his true body to the barrel.

Delilah kissed Zamarad and then checked her shotgun's loads. The revolver fished around in the chest and then tossed Ehren a M1942 Stahlhelm with a SS shield on it that glimmered with preservation and strengthening wards.
Spoiler: Ehren's Helmet
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Ehren's eyes widened behind her gas mask as she buckled it to her head automatically. "Tante Del, vas?"

"Picked that up in the Bulge from a Das Reich Panzergrenadier who nearly did me in. Damn good fighter and a brave man. Kept it as a trophy, but it fits you, Ehren." Delilah explained as she pulled out her own WWII American helmet and ran a thumb across the scar in the metal caused by a bullet from a war seven decades ago. "I'll see you on the other side, hm?"

Ehren gave a weak grin unseen in her gas mask. "Jawohl!"

Colombe took a deep breath, looking at each of the ten other spirits in the eye one by one. "Two minutes, then we go over the top. If you know any good prayers, now's the time. I'll take point till we see what we are up against."

With that, Colombe pulled down the gas mask and buckled her M15 Adrian Helmet that had brought her through the Great War to her head. She steeled herself and walked slowly to the fogbank filling the trench, then drew her sword in a crusader's salute. She dropped to one knee and placed her hands on her hilt as she dug the point of her true body into the dirt of the trench. Her forehead rested on the pommel of her blade and her shoulders shook violently as she prayed in a whisper. Slowly the dove on her hilt began to glow white and flicker in time with her shaking shoulders and racing heart.

Tokunotakai walked a half step behind Colombe and knelt in seiza, bowing her head as her hand grasped her hilt. Her own dove symbol on her tsuba blazed defiantly against the darkness filling the trench as the sun set.

Ehren walked right behind Toku and dropped to one knee in conscious imitation of her mother. Vaguely, she was aware of Norimune kneeling beside her as she rested her unsheathed blade on her shoulder, and Delilah and Ying directly behind her. None of that mattered as she flicked the safety off her Luger P08 pistol and then drew her Ehrendolch body.

Ehren closed her eyes and approached the sealed cage in her soul where Grendel resided. Her lips moved wordlessly as she struggled to articulate what she felt in that moment.

Finally one thought surfaced as the seconds ticked away and her hard steel-blue eyes opened.

Meine Ehren Heisst Treue.

My Honor is Faithfulness.

For Germany.


For my friends.

For my cousins.

For my grandmother.

For my grandaunts.

For my big sister Ying.

For Tokunotakai.

For Aunt Jackie.

For Aunt Del and Zamarad.

For Claire.

For Mutti.

With that she threw the cage on the darkness of her past wide open and her lips drew back from her teeth in a soundless mad snarl as her clothing under the chemical warfare suit shifted to the black and silver of the SS. Her blade's edges began to gleam with a fell light as her grip tightened on her hilt.

Colombe shot to her feet, gesturing with one hand in a wordless beckoning command as she plunged into Hell point-first. Toku drew herself in a blur of steel in a perfect iaido strike simultaneously, all Seven Virtues of Bushido shining on her blazing blade as she followed Colombe into Verdun's maw.

Ehren and Norimune were half a step behind.
 
Taihou meets her sister
Harry Leferts

Denryuu walked along the hallway for the Carrier Dorms with her hand against her stomach. For the first time in her existence she... actually felt full. In the Caldera, her hull had never been filled with fuel, nor had she any armaments. Thus, she never knew what the feeling of being full had been like. And now she had, and she was rather happy. Internally, she was also thanking the one she considered to be the reason for it...

And that would be Harry.

She could remember all the years that she sat there, in her flooded berth from which one day she would have sailed from and had looked forward to. Granted, there was a part of her, when she woke up during her construction, that was disturbed by what was going on around her. The workers slowly building her and the other ships, but without any free will. Just... automatons, something that was so wrong that she cringed even now. And then the day came when the whole of the base was on fire, munition dumps going up alongside fuel depots, fiend fyre ravaging friend... ally and foe alike without care. She could feel her own steel groaning and somewhat warping under the heat, with water rushing in uncontrollably into the dry dock.

Except this water had not been meant to save her, to float her out. No, instead it lifted her off her keel blocks and slammed her bow first into the end of the dry dock hard enough that a few minute cracks formed in her fiend fyre weakened hull from where a few plates had buckled. Not enough to kill her, far from it in fact...

But, without any ships to pull her out of her dry dock or to properly open it to the sea, or fuel in her boilers, she sat there. Water trickled into the cracks in her hull, slowly but surely filling her and causing her to sink still further. Fall came and so did a typhoon whose wind and waves slammed her again and again into the sides of her flooded dry dock, doing more damage and making more cracks and small rents in her hull with yet more water making it's way inside.

Less than three months after the attack on the base, Denryuu's hull touched the bottom of her once cradle, and now tomb, most of her hull flooded with water in a way that for a human would be a slow bleed out internally. Ishikari and Miitake met much the same fates though Ishikari had a group sealed alive in a room within her hull that said Battlecruiser had to listen to die agonizing deaths over days and weeks as her own hull settled. The three nearly finished ships thought that Mihara had the best deal as she was so incomplete, she sunk nearly immediately in her dry dock. Something that she agreed with to some extent during their talks.

Thus she laid for decades to come in her grave, seeing and hearing the various ghosts around them. Some of the Japanese cursing her for not having been finished sooner upon word of the Empire's defeat. And some of the Americans cursing her for having been enslaved to work on building her, though they she forgave. Days turned into weeks, which turned into months and then years which became decades. And for that time, she laid there like that before slipping into a dark slumber.

Until, that was, just a few years ago when people, living people, arrived upon the island.

Among them was a younger Harry who made friends with the Hitobashira. At the time, Denryuu was more curious about the shipgirls, spirits of ships like herself who had somehow manifested in actual human form upon the material realm. The chance for something like that to happen to her was something that she had grasped with both hands. And when she heard about them talking about purifying the Caldera, to allow for them to summon the spirits of the ships there without any issue? She felt her hopes rise, to say the least.

Yet, she was surprised that the wizard barely in his teens was to be part of this. Even now, Denryuu could remember when he ventured into her hull to plant purification Ofuda to help cleanse her. She could remember the harsh words of the American Marines who were 'Guarding' the young man, though she didn't know what they could have done against the supernatural. The comments that they made stung a bit, such as how creepy she was and the like. But... she accepted them, just the same.

Which was when Harry shocked her when he had shaken his head and stated that he did not find her creepy. Holding out a hand, he pressed it against one of her corridor hulls and she swore that her own palm felt warm, like he was holding it... Right before he came out with her name and stated that she felt sad and lonely. If she was physical and not following them invisibly, she would have squeaked and had her jaw drop. He... he knew her name, and did not find her creepy, just sad and lonely as well as tragic.

Soon after that, Harry dove down into her engine room, to her 'Heart' in order to plant the Ofuda that would purify that area. She followed him as he swam along through her rusting machinery. It did not take him long to plant said Ofuda where it was needed, close to the greatest source of negativity in her hull. And within minutes, she felt... lighter, as if the shadows surrounding her were being washed away gently and with a warm feeling that she associated with love.

Later, as he left her hull, the wizard had paused and looked back. Somehow, she did not know how even now, but he was looking her right in the eyes of her spiritual form. Then he smiled softly and told her that soon she would be free and he would love to meet her. Words that struck her and stayed with her for all these years. Even when he met her truly for the first time, her spirit that was, he simply smiled and told her he was pleased to meet her.

Oh, and had given her a hug as well, that was very important.

And now, here she was, physical and on the material plain ready and able to do what she had been built to do, defend Japan. Something that she swore that she would do to her upmost. More than that, her friends, which she counted Ume and Sakura as being among, would be there alongside her. What Harry had pulled off with the Twins had surprised her somewhat, but not that much.

More importantly though, when she walked out of the water after greeting those there, she had walked to where Harry was. Yes, at the time he was talking to the Twins, but she did not mind actually. Quite the opposite as his explanation for how it was done, despite him obviously wanting to tone down his involvement, had only made her more impressed with him. But everything that he had done for her, however, was why she was so happy at that moment and greeted him with a hug... and a kiss on the cheek.

Because he was her hero that rescued her as far as she was concerned.

Right now though, she was happy for another reason with him and that was how he proved that he could keep her supplied. Her fuel tanks, or maybe it was stomach, were filled with warm, delicious food that had been made for her. And she was looking forward to sleeping for the first time, and already knowing that her dreams would be of the future where the young, black haired teen would be her Admiral among other things.

Upon coming out of her thoughts though with realizing that she was close to her assigned quarters on the base, Denryuu paused. Mainly because she had been so distracted that she had missed who was in front of her which was a very familiar Carrier, one that she had dreamed of meeting for so long, and had grieved when still being built she had heard said ship had been sunk by the Americans...

Her sister, Taihou.

For her part, Taihou seemed to just notice her as well, having been distracted by her own thoughts on whatever. Both of them stood there with a slightly awkward silence around them that stretched for a time. However, finally, Taihou cleared her throat before glancing away, "I..." Putting an unsure smile on her face, she turned back to Denryuu, "We... already met, back at the Caldera and, um..."

Shifting a bit, the newly summoned Carrier licked her suddenly dry lips and gave a nod, "Hai, I remember." A bit of information that she had overheard from Tenryuu talking with Sakura rose in her mind, "Is... this our room?"

With a blink, Taihou stared for a moment before laughing nervously, "H-hai, it's our room. Sister ships often quarter together and... and..."

The other Carrier trailed off, even as her mouth moved but no sound came out. Finally, Denryuu took a deep breath before bowing slightly, "I... am not sure that we ever got introduced properly, I'm Denryuu, first of the Taihou Kai Carriers."

Quickly, Taihou also bowed, "I-I'm Taihou and until now... until now the only member of my class."

Yet again, an awkward silence fell over them before Denryuu took a step forward and stopped. Shyly, she looked into the other Carrier's eyes, even as her mind took in the features which were so much like her own. Where her hair was greyish red, Taihou's was brownish red. And another difference was that she had a bit more of a bust, but... other than that, there was no mistaking the two as being sisters. Swallowing to wet her dry throat, and to shove down the fear that rose in her, Denryuu met her older sister's eyes and said the only thing that came to mind, "Until now... b-but not anymore I hope... Onee-Sama."

Eyes widening slightly, Taihou stared at her as hope burned in her gaze and she had an awed look on her face. The Armored Carrier's next words came out in a whisper, "W-what did you call me?"

Flinching a bit, the newly summoned shipgirl barely noted that Taihou flinched in response. Instead, Denryuu continued on, "I... I called you Onee-Sama." Hanging her head, she chewed her lip some, "I... I'm sorry if that is inappropriate b-but... I can call you something else..."

"Onee-Chan."

Confused, Denryuu looked up to find tears coming from Taihou's eyes and she blinked, "I... what?"

Taihou took one step forward, "C-call me Onee-Chan... please."

Said words came from the younger Carrier's mouth, feeling completely natural, "Onee-Chan..." Mouth moving, Denryuu repeated said words as tears spilled from her cheeks, "Onee-Chan..." Quickly, she moved across what little space there was between them and hugged her older sister as tight as she could, "Onee-Chan!"

For her part, Taihou was holding Denryuu just as tightly as she buried her wet face into the other, also sobbing Carrier's neck, "Imouto-Chan... Imouto..." Nuzzling her even as she sobbed, the Armored Carrier closed her eyes even as the tears flowed all the more freely, "I... I have an Imouto now... I have an Imouto... I-I'm an Onee-Chan now..."

Nodding against Taihou's neck, Denryuu smiled, "H-hai, you're my Onee-Chan."

A sound like something between a sob and a laugh escaped the other Carrier's mouth, "I-I always had Zuikaku-Nee and Shoukaku-Nee since I was based on them... Y-yet it is not the same." A sniffle came from her as she nuzzled the other Carrier's hair, "B-but now I have a Imouto... Thank the Kami."

Just blinking away the happy tears, even as her boilers felt like they would explode, Denryuu laughed, "H-hai..." She swallowed a bit, "D-do you care about..."

However, Taihou shook her head, "How you were built? N-no, I don't." Pulling away slightly, she kissed her sister, and those words made it feel like her chest was about to detonate, on the brow gently, "I would never care about that, because you're my Imouto. My beautiful, amazing Imouto."

Those words made Denryuu blush heavily, but she continued in a whisper as she asked a question that haunted her, "But then... why did you never visit?"

Several seconds passed before the older of the two sighed, "I... was scared."

Not having expected, Denryuu blinked, "You... were scared?" Getting a nod, she frowned, "Why?"

Licking her lips, Taihou shook her head, "Because it seemed far to good to be true. And also... I... I did not want to see your sunken hull there, the Imouto that I always wanted dead and out of my reach. And I thought that you would be mad since I..."

Completely understanding what she meant, the younger Armored Carrier shook her head, "I would never be mad at you. I just thought that you... you were ashamed of me. For how I was built and how I... how I died."

That, however, only made Taihou hug her fiercly, "Never!" Nearly growling, she continued, "I never was and would never be ashamed of you for that." A snort then escaped the Carrier, "Here I was thinking that you would be ashamed of me for how I died. Explosive gases building up..."

Denryuu only sniffled, "No, I was only ever sad that... that I would never get to meet you, to sail alongside you, Onee-Chan."

Pulling back a bit, Taihou shook her head before giving her another kiss on the forehead. That was followed by pressing their foreheads together and giving her a smile both watery and full of pure joy, "And you no longer need to worry about that, Denryuu-Chan. Because I will sail alongside you. And... and as soon as your spiritual energies have settled, I'll start teaching you and your crews everything that they need to know."

Brightly smiling, the younger sister nodded sharply, "Hai!" She then buried her face in Taihou's neck, "I just want to make you proud."

Hand gently cupping the back of Denryuu's head, Taihou shook her head, "You don't need to, Imouto... Because I am already so very proud of you... so very proud..."

When the two pulled apart, almost an half hour later, Taihou opened the door to their shared quarters and showed her it. And that night found the older Carrier gazing upon her sleeping younger sister and holding her close before falling asleep herself...
 
A happy man
Harry Leferts

Standing just outside the gate, Akiyama closed his eyes and took a deep breath of the evening air. He then let it out in a soft sigh with his lips curled slightly into a soft smile before he opened his eyes and looked up to the stars above, 'Today... has been a very good day.'

Internally, he chuckled some at just how much of an understatement that was to him. It had been beyond a very good day after all.

When he had woken that morning with his wives cuddled up to him to ward off the springtime chill, he had thought himself ready for just about anything that could well happen that day. Gathering up his family, or rather those he considered such unlike his mother, he brought them and those closely allied with their family and utterly loyal to Yokosuka before they made their way to the Caldera that was his Onee-Samas' prison. Akiyama had noticed the slight change in his children and grandchildren when he showed them the current state of the island. He also knew in that moment that any sympathy for his mother and the Clan Elders from that time, those currently isolated in exile and those who had watered the garden, had died.

Oh, he knew that his children and grandchildren were unsure of how to take his actions regarding his mother and the Elders. After all, he raised them on the ideal that family meant everything, even if you disliked them. And he was proud of them for taking such a thing to heart. But at the same time, Akiyama knew that they did not quite understand the horror that was done to his sisters. The older ones might have had an idea, but not so much the younger ones. Hitobashira were not really all that covered in school anymore, and what was covered was treated as a minor curiosity in Defense Against the Dark Arts. It had been over a century since the last confirmed case of a Hitobashira having been made after all. And there were far easier methods to build and the like.

Thus, Akiyama knew, it was not something that they could really understand the horror of. It was something from dusty old tomes and history books after all, far away and at a personal distance. Which was a good amount of the reasoning beyond Harry's letter to him that he brought them, to make such a fact personal. And upon meeting their aunts, actually talking with them? That made it real, it made it personal.

Something that had changed their outlooks on what he had done quite a bit.

Granted, before Harry had explained things to him, he had only thought that the Summoning Ritual was to bring forth the ships in the Caldera as shipgirls. Never, not even in his wildest dreams, had he believed that otherwise could be possible. Yet, as Harry had explained to him, he felt himself grow surprised and... hopeful, was the only real word that he could use. Yet, even then, he could not quite bring himself to believe what was being told to him. It was far too unbelievable after all.

But as the ritual began and continued, he still had a flame of hope. And when his Onee-Samas had begun to disappear, he felt that hope rise even alongside the fear. Fear that after just being reunited with them, he was about to lose them all over again. Something, he knew, might well kill him if it happened. Hence his warning to Harry that they better be okay when they had disappeared.

And then... the water exploded upwards into a plume and is the water fell, the most beautiful sight met his eyes. A sight that in his eyes was on the same level as when he married his wives, and held his children for the first time. Because there, drops of water sparkling like diamonds as it fell around them and the mist refracting the beautiful spring sunlight into rainbows that danced around them, like a vision from the Heavens... Were his beloved Onee-Samas, once more flesh and blood.

Of course, that was not to say that he did not notice the rigging around them. While he had been told what would happen, it was still surprising to see. But he did not care too much about it because his older sisters were once more among the living... no, that was not right. He did care about it, but more in what it proved, that his Onee-Samas had joined the Kami themselves, and in his mind how could they not?

Yet, it was when they smiled at them, flesh no longer pale and cold, but warm and colored with life, that he nearly felt his heart stop as the old pain fell away from him. And he could feel it, all the years of grief, sadness, and heartache just... fall away from his shoulders like an old cloak. For it would no longer have a hold on him after that, and he was glad. Even then though, it did not fall away fully until he was able to hold them again, with them holding him back.

Just that, alone, made everything feel like it was going to be okay. And as just the fact that him becoming friends with his Onee-Samas and bringing him to them alone would have had him help Harry, this? This made sure that not just him but his family owed Harry a great debt. Thus, he would have little issue with helping him be free of the foul thing within his scar. Speaking of things he had little issue with...

Not a fool, he saw how his Onee-Samas looked towards Harry, and he would have been a fool to miss it. Oh, he knew that they were smitten with the young wizard and that was a fact that amused him. But upon their triumphant return to the living, he saw that crush become more, not that he could blame them! After all, it was not every day that someone helps a person return from the dead as a full fledge Kami! Hence, he had little issue with the attraction as it was fully understandable.

In fact, considering everything and all that he had done? Akiyama was all for it! For he knew that Harry was someone he could fully trust to keep his Onee-Samas happy, and that to the old wizard was really all that mattered in the end. That they would be happy.

Granted, Akiyama also understood that it would be time and was more than willing to not force the issue. He understood Harry's problems to some extent, that the young man had issues understanding that he was worthy of being cared for and being loved. While not to the same extent (from the little he had heard of the young man's past), Akiyama's own childhood and teen years were not filled with much love. About the only source of affection he had gotten while growing up was his Onee-Samas. After their disappearance, it was not until he was five years married with his own human wife that she broke down the barriers and taught him that he was worthy of being loved.
But, his human wife, followed by his crane wife, had taken years to chip away at the walls around him to make him understand that.

Even then though, it was not until he held his first child that he truly understood that fact. That he could be loved, that he was worthy of such a thing. Holding that small form in his hands and seeing their eyes gaze into his, that beautiful sight had made it click in his head and he had unashamedly cried. And he had cried at the birth of each child and grandchild, most likely he would continue to do so with each great-grandchild.

Hence, him understanding about Harry to an extent that he doubted the young man understood himself.

Coming out of his internal thoughts, Akiyama turned to find said teen a short distance away as his Onee-Samas stood in front of him at the gate to Yokosuka Naval Base. Both girls blinked at him and tilted their heads, "Aki-Kun? Is something wrong?"

Lightly chuckling, the old man shook his head, "No, nothing is wrong, Onee-Samas. Just thinking about the incredible day that has happened and what the Kami have seen fit to restore to me. The musings of an old man, nothing more."

Both Sakura and Ume shook their heads before giving him a wagging finger, "You are not that old, you're our Otouto! Now what would that make us now?!"

All three knew the lie for what it was, but laughed just the same. When they had calmed down, Sakura smiled before glancing at Harry, "But yes, it has been an incredible day..." Softly smiling, she looked up into his eyes, eyes that glimmered with happiness and looked as youthful as they did before they had died, "A very incredible day."
Slowly nodding, Akiyama sighed happily, "Hai, it has indeed." Glancing at his pocket watch, he smiled a bit sadly, "It is now late and these old bones need their rest, Onee-Samas. Tomorrow, I shall return and spend the day with you."

Hearing that, the Twins frowned slightly, "But... do you not have politics to attend to?"

Unable to help himself, Akiyama grinned a bit, "Hai, I do. But family, as I have taught mine, always comes first. Besides which, they understand that there are family... issues... that will take up time." He gave them a small wink before glancing towards Miu, "I suspect that some assume that, with my daughter's recent absence, that perhaps she has become in the family way." The elderly wizard knew that Akimi had heard and told her friend via whispers, if only by how his daughter flushed out of embarrassment and anger, 'Ah, the joys of being a Otou-San. Perhaps though she might give me a grandchild in the future.' Shaking off that thought, he turned his attention back to his sisters, "So do not worry yourself, Onee-Samas, I shall have the time for the next few days, and then..."

The Twins nodded and smiled brightly, "We shall be able to come home and sleep in our own beds for the first time in decades..." Voices soft, they added the rest in a near whisper, "We are looking forward to it."

Simply nodding, their brother smiled, "As am I." Turning, Akiyama smiled at Harry before clearing his throat to catch the younger wizard's attention before calling over to him, "Harry-San? May I ask you something of a favor?"

Glancing at the Twins, Harry walked over so that Akiyama would not need to shout to be heard, "Of course, what sort of favor do you need?"

Lips curling into a slight smirk and a glimmer of mischievousness in his eyes, Akiyama gestured towards his sisters, "As I am leaving for the night and as it is evening, I would ask you to escort my Onee-Samas to their temporary quarters so that they may be safe." Out of the corner of his eye, he could see both Ume and Sakura go bright red in their faces from embarrassment. At the same time, the looks they gave him promised vengeance with him smirking back, 'Ah, I thought that I would miss out on this... I am glad that I will not.'

Not having seen the byplay, Harry just nodded, "You don't even need to ask, Akiyama-San. I will make sure that they get back to their quarters safe and sound."

Chuckling, the older man patted him on the shoulder, "I am sure that you will and I can trust you to do so." He then decided to twist the knife a little, "Then I entrust them into your hands, as I am quite certain that they will be happy with you escorting them back to their rooms."

If his sisters' faces were red before, than it looked like all their blood were rushing to their faces at the moment while their gazes promised death and hell in no particular order for this.

Sharply nodding, Harry just grinned, "You can count on me."

Humming, Akiyama gave a slight bow, "Thank you once more for taking care of my Onee-Samas. At times, they need such." With another nod, he chuckled, "And I hope that you have a very good night."

Moments later found the old wizard walking down the street to a somewhat hidden place where they could apparate with his wives on either side. Eyebrow raised, Hina cleared her throat, "You do realize that Sakura-San and Ume-San shall reap a terrible vengeance upon you for what you just did, yes?"

A grin on his face, Akiyama laughed, "I do." Turning, he gave his wives a happy look, "And I am glad for it to be able to happen... so very glad."

Sharing a look and shaking their heads at the antics of their husband, both Sora and Hina smiled before leaning against him.

Back in the base, as they walked back through the gate, Harry tilted his head at how Ume and Sakura were grumbling under their breaths. Something about how they're supposed to tease as older siblings or some such? Just shaking that off, he looked between them, "Something wrong?"

The two blinked before they sighed and shook their heads, "No, it's nothing, Harry-Chan. Only that we shall have to have a talk with our Otouto at a later point."

Part of Harry told him not to really pry more into that for his own health, "I see."

Relaxing a bit, both Installation girls looked up at the stars before turning back to Harry with gentle smiles on their faces. Moments later, their hands clasped his and entwined their fingers with his. Slowly nodding, Ume smiled more, "Still, Aki-Kun has been right about this being an incredible day."

On Harry's other side, Sakura nodded with a bright smile of her own, "Hai, that is true..." Giving the thirteen year old boy's hands a little squeeze, she continued, "And we have you to thank for it."

Shyly laughing, Harry gave a small shrug, "Well... how could I not do something like this for you?"

Needless to say, that only got him a chuckle and a shake of the head from the Twins much to his confusion. After a few minutes though, their smiles turned sad, "You're heading back to Hogwarts tomorrow, aren't you?"

Humming, Harry nodded slightly, "Hai, I am. Tomorrow is my last day here in Yokosuka before going back to Hogwarts for the rest of the year."

A soft sigh escaped from the two girls before Sakura shook her head at him, "We see, than it shall be two months before we can see you once more."

Eyebrows furrowing, the thirteen year old wizard was not comfortable with them being sad at him going back to Hogwarts. After a few moments of thought, it came to him, "Well... there is one thing..." Seeing them look at him, he continued with a slight smile, "I have a Quidditch game in late May, the final one of the year. Both of you could come to it."

Their eyes widening, the twins came to a stop, "You... you would want us to come to your game? At Hogwarts?"

Grinning, Harry nodded with a laugh, "Of course." He then gave a small shrug, "Besides which... I promised to figure out a way to show you the school after all. And maybe we could go to Hogsmeade the day after or something."

If their eyes were not wide before, than the Twins certainly did now. They looked at each other before swallowing as at how happy they felt, bright smiles on their faces, "Hai, we would like that, Harry-Chan." Giving him a kiss on the cheek despite how their niece and her friend were following at a distance, both Twins leaned against Harry, "Thank you."

Lightly blushing, Harry simply chuckled before giving their hands a squeeze, "I'm glad." As they walked, he glanced up the clear sky, "Well, at least it is a nice night to go with the great day."

Both Twins hummed in agreement.

When they reached their quarters, Sakura and Ume opened the door before stepping inside to see everything. Due to them being temporary quarters for visiting shipgirls, there was not much there. But Harry guided them around just the same showing them the fridge which was already stocked with a note from Mamiya, a quick lesson on how to use some of the appliances there, and showing them the private bathroom that was also there and the toilet as well. Once that was all done and the futons had been rolled out, the Twins stood at the door with Harry outside. The teenage wizard gave them a small bow, "I shall see you both in the morning then, I guess."

Ume smiled and nodded, "Hai, we shall see you in the morning."

Glancing at her sister, Ume then leaned in and gave Harry a kiss followed by Sakura. Both Twins giggled and stepped back before slowly closing the door, "Good night, Harry-Chan."

Softly smiling, Harry gave them a nod and a smile, "Good night, Sakura-Chan, Ume-Chan, pleasant dreams."

And, sure enough, they were.
 
Waking up human
Harry Leferts

As the dawn came and sunlight poked through the curtains of the shipgirl guest dorms, two forms slowly awoke from their slumber and from pleasant dreams. Opening her brown eyes, Sakura gave a small hum as she blinked away sleep, "Mmm? Morning already?"

Beside her, Ume gave a yawn of her own before nodding, "It seems so, Nee-San." Humming, she stretched which caused her joints to pop, "That was an enjoyable nights sleep. The best in..."

Just nodding, Sakura smiled as her own motions mirrored that of her sister, "... In a very long time." The two shared a small nod as they laid back, "Though I have never laid in a western style bed before."

Head tilted to the side, her sister only nodded, "Hai, though it is not too bad, and most certainly not like how some had described them when we were alive. Very soft..." A small gleam entered her eyes, "Perhaps we might get more used to it at some point."

The two of them shared giggles as they just laid there under the warm covers, luxuriating in the feeling of waking up after so long as Hitobashira.

How long the two laid there was something that neither cared to notice. It was the small things that one missed when they were a Yuurei after all. Hence, them just enjoying it for now.

Eventually though, Ume let out a soft sigh, "What time is it?"

Glancing first at her sister, Sakura looked toward the wall clock and smiled, "It seems that it is just after seven in the morning." With another stretch, she shifted a bit, "I believe that it is time to get up."

Slowly nodding, her Twin also shifted in the bed, "Hai, and time for breakfast as well." Both girls gave a hum at the thoughts of food that would greet them. However, suddenly Sakura gasped as she swung her legs out of bed which made Ume sit up, "Nee-San? Something wrong?"

Upon Sakura's face was a look of pure wonderment, "The floor! It's cold!"

For a few moments, Ume's expression was one of confusion before she sat up in realization. Only seconds later, she joined her sister at the edge of the bed and gently put her feet down until the bare skin of it touched the tiles. Then she yanked them back with a gasp and a look of awe on her face, "It is cold..."

Looking at each other, the Twins turned back to the floor and placed their feet down, only to yank them back with gasps and smiles. For several minutes, they did this with giggles between the gasps until they finally got out of bed. When they looked at each other again, they laughed with their eyes sparkling with joy.

Not long after, of course, the Twins made their way to the counter in the small kitchen. Examining what was there, Sakura hummed before noticing her sister adjusting her sleeping Yukata, "Is something wrong?"

A light blush on her face, Ume sighed, "It is these Yukatas." At the confused look, she continued, "They are rather nice for what must be... cheap ones. But they simply do not fit quite as good as proper ones."

Sakura only nodded in agreement before adjusting her own, "Hai, that is very true. Perhaps when Aki-Kun comes we can shop for a proper fitting sleeping Yukata? I am rather certain that our old ones are no longer around."

With a sorrowful look, her sister nodded, "Agreed, though I did rather like mine. Same with our Kimonos..." Shaking that off, she frowned slightly as she looked down at herself, "Though I should feel more comfortable once I have my sarashi back on as then things might not be so... problematic."

Giving her sister an understanding look, Sakura nodded, "Hai, the curse of the Konohana women." Both girls shared a commiserating sigh about said "Curse", which they felt appropriate. Then Sakura hummed before giving a nod, "Speaking of which, apparently Miu-Chan and some others shall take us out to get some more clothing."

Rather surprised, Ume gave a blink before nodding, "I could see the reasoning though..." Briefly, she chewed her lip, "I am unsure about some of the clothing that women wear in the modern day. Some of those skirts are extremely short."

The two of them blushed for a moment imagining wearing them before they shook it off. Wanting to distract herself and her sister, Sakura turned to the cupboards and made a sound of happiness moments later, "Ah! We have tea as well as honey! A nice warm drink sounds good."

Simply nodding in agreement, the two worked together to make themselves a cup of tea. Once it was done, they sniffed the steam before smiling and taking a drink and letting out a sigh, "Lovely tea."

Just as they finished their tea, however, they became aware of a tapping on the windowsill. Turning, Ume's expression brightened at the sight of the familiar snowy owl, "It's Hedwig-San!" Opening the window, she let Hedwig in with a smile with the snowy owl landing on the counter with a basket clutched in her talons, "Good morning, Hedwig-San."

In reply, the owl bobbed her head and gave her version of a smile, "And a very good morning to you both as well." Hopping off the basket, Hedwig transformed into her human form and gave the two a look over, "Though I must say that you are looking well this morn."

Giggling, the Twins bowed towards her, "Hai, and we are feeling well." Turning towards the basket, they took note of the wrapped box in it as well as several other items, "What are these now?"

Amused, Hedwig chuckled as she looked at the basket herself, "This morning my Master realized that you were missing some very important items. Mainly toiletries for your personal use."

Intrigued, the two former Hitobashira looked through them before making sounds of surprise, "Shampoo... soap... toothpaste..." Eventually, they nodded some, "We are surprised, though happy that Harry-Chan remembered such... though we are also ashamed that we did not think of it ourselves. But..."

Seeing their gazes fall on the wrapped box, Hedwig snickered, "That was a gift that my Master received just this morning via mail." Giving a sniff, she shook her head, "Why he relies on human mailmen when he has me..."

Lips twitching, the Twins shared an amused look before Sakura took the letter and opened it. Part of her internally nodded at the fine penmanship that the letter showed as expected. But then her eyebrows rose, "It says here that as soon as Harry-Chan had found out from Ian-Dono regarding how we could come back, he made an order from a place in Kyoto! And for us!" Now looking at the gift, she gently took it out, "I wonder what it is...?"

Upon opening though, her and her sister gasped at the sight of two traditional Japanese combs made of box wood. The lacquered wood had ume blossoms on one and sakura blossoms on the other. There was also another, western hairbrush as well with the back showing two intertwined branches of the flowers they were named after. With trembling hands, the girls took up their combs and ran their thumbs along them. Watery smiles appeared on their faces as they thought back to talks with Harry about how they considered their hair to be one of their most beautiful features and how they had loved brushing and combing it.

Needless to say, that he remembered that touched them.

Placing those aside, they took the hairbrush and looked it over, their thumbs rubbing the wood gently. It was of heavier construction of course, or at least the wood was. And the handle was coated in some sort of ivory-like substance, and from the tingle of magic, they suspected western dragon tooth. Eyebrows furrowing we their thumbs brushed against the bristles, they tilted their head before seeing a note at the bottom of the box. Reading it, they blinked, "Boar bristles?"

After a few moments, they remembered something from so long ago. A chat between two women in the magical marketplace in Kyoto that they overheard while being fitted for new Kimonos. One of them had been commenting to the other that they had been using a hairbrush with boar bristles and that it had been wonderful for their hair. That memory made them feel the prickle of tears at what this meant.

It went without saying that combined with the gift of the combs, if Harry had been there right at that moment, they would have pulled him into a kiss... and still might yet.
Turning to Hedwig, Ume gave her an inquisitive look, "Hedwig-San? Where might Harry-Chan be right now?"

Somewhat amused due to having an idea as to why the young woman asked such, Hedwig glanced at the clock before nodding, "Harry-Wizard is very likely finishing up his morning run if not having his shower. After that, he shall be heading to the mess hall to help cook breakfast."

Eyebrows raising, the Twins blinked at that, "Harry-Chan does a morning run?"

Humming, Hedwig gave a small nod, "Indeed he does, every morning that he could. Claims that besides keeping him healthy, it also wakes him up first thing in the morning."

Ume and Sakura considered that for a few moments before nodding as it did make a bit of sense. After all, they knew that many people would wake up in the morning in order to practice in the cool air to wake up. Softly smiling, they bowed to Hedwig, "Please pass on to Harry-Chan that we thank him for thinking of us, and that we will be speaking to him when we arrive for breakfast."

Lightly chuckling, the owl nodded, "I shall do so."

With that, Hedwig transformed back into her owl form and took off out the window with Ume closing it afterwards. Nodding, she turned towards Sakura and gestured towards the bathroom, "Shall we wash and bathe?"

Grimacing a touch, Sakura nodded, "Hai, we forgot to do so last night after all before going to bed..." Upon entering the bathroom though, she frowned thoughtfully as she looked between the bath and the shower, "I wonder though... should we take a bath now, or a shower and leave the bath for tonight for when we have new clothes?"

At that, Ume frowned, "That is a very good question." Considering that, she turned to her twin with a small nod, "Perhaps it is best to take a shower as that would also take less time. "

Only nodding, her sister examined the shower carefully, "Now, how did Harry-Chan state that it operated again...?"
 
The Mill On The Meuse 9 [Verdun]
Yellowhammer

A.N.-Back from Verdun eating my video drivers (J/k)... Also content warning, Verdun was Hell.

An incredible view spreads before our eyes. Extending along the horizon was a blood-red band of light the redness and brightness of which gradually fading to a purple hue that seemed to take over the entire night sky. In the distance small purple lights flickered, went out, suddenly brightened again. There were easily a hundred of them: they were German shells being illuminated by fires below, as the homes of Verdun burned in the night. Second Lieutenant Roger Campana, 151st Infantry Regiment, 9 March 1916.

The Mill On The Meuse (IX)

Tranche de Chattancourt, 2 km from Hill 295 (Le Mort Homme)

May 6th, 1916


Ehren du Chasteler plunged through the fogbank and into madness at a dead run.

Her left leg sank up to the ankle in the mud, slime, and blood that filled the trench bottom, landing on something that squished under her boot. Even inside a gas mask the smell of death, excrement, rotting flesh, and worse hit her like a punch to the gut and she was thankful that she had taken the advice not to eat as her stomach twisted.

The trench was illuminated by red, orange, purple, and yellow flames from the continuous explosions of the bombardment around her, centered on the erupting volcano that was the top of Le Mort Homme.
Spoiler: The Voice Of The Mill

Worst of all was the sound of The Monster. The noise of shells rocketing overhead and exploding around her was a roar of chaotic noise that hammered her like padded clubs swung by giants with the concussion of their passage overhead and explosions around the battered trench that she was in. She couldn't even hear herself screaming in the grip of some primal emotion at the top of her lungs.

Earth, pieces of iron, and pieces of men spattered her as a 150mm shell exploded nearby.

In that instant what saved her was less her conscious mind, which was trying to make sense of the nightmare that she had plunged into willingly, and more the bone deep, steel-deep, soul-deep discipline that had been forged into her very existence and honed by a lifetime of honor and obedience. Driven by something very close to spinal reflex, she followed the glowing gold cross of magical light that showed her mother's location around a bend in a trench.

They hit a T junction and Colombe moved to the left, away from the direct path to the hellish volcano ahead. Ehren followed, clambering over a section where part of the trench had collapsed from a shell hit. As she reached the top, she half turned and extended a hand to Ying to assist her sister to keep pace with their charge through Hell.

Ouvrage Moulandin, 250 Meters from Chattancourt, 1.65 km from Hill 295 (Le Mort Homme)
Spoiler: Ouvrage Moulandin

Ehren's heart raced like the thudding of the steel mill in far-distant Essen that had given her birth. Her breath caught in her lungs as a cloud of smoke, dust and dirt, or perhaps poison gas enveloped the trench. Her mother had finally paused, and looked back at the ten other souls at her heels. The run to this point had been a race through a mad nightmare.

Colombe gave a thumbs-up to the others and cocked her head. The noise made it near impossible to hear or even hear herself think, and Ehren responded with her own shaky thumbs-up as she gulped.

Colombe nodded, then held out a hand with five fingers spread. One dropped then another as she braced herself against the corner of the traverse.

Ehren clenched her dagger tight and dug her feet into the muddy bottom of the trench as the third, and then fourth dropped.

The last one dropped and Colombe leapt around the corner with Ehren, Toku, and Norimune hot on her heels

Half a second later they were fighting for their lives.

Colombe rounded the corner into a squad of decaying poileus digging vainly at a collapsed shelter in the side of the trench next to a four way junction. One swung the sharpened edge of his shovel at her, only to have his skull split by her riposte. A second later a 210mm shell exploded, slamming them all against the wall of the trench from the concussion of the shockwave.

As if that was a signal, one of the undead French soldiers raised a rusty and decayed metal whistle to his moldering lips and blew a sharp blast an instant before Colombe's blade lit up with golden fires and skewered him.

More undead boiled out from the trench ahead and from the cross trench to the left. Colombe charged to meet the rush to her front, hurling flaming discs at them. As the first undead burned from the rapier's spell the collapsed dugout shook and ghostly soldiers clambered out, their blue, staring faces, and broken and bloody hands showing that they had been buried alive and suffocated in the tortured earth when their shelter collapsed.

Toku leapt to face the ghosts head on, her katana blazing like a star as she screamed a Shinto prayer of protection and exorcism against Yuurei. Meanwhile Norimune passed her fellow Blade of Hachiman in almost a ballet of death, slamming into the wave from the side trench with her blade rising and falling in broad sweeps that filled the opening with a steel wall.

A flicker of movement out of the corner of her eye caught Ehren's attention. Time slowed as yet another undead came from the cross trench to her right, raising a rusty bayoneted rifle to take aim at Norimune's back. Ehren seemed to observe her own movements behind a thick pane of glass as she blurred into action.

The shock of her shoulder check of the rotting soldier was like hitting the canvas sack that she used for boxing practice, except instead of being filled with sand, it was filled with some foul sludge that gave way unpleasantly. Her left hand knocked the rifle to the side right before it fired, while her right hand plunged her Ehrendolch into the bloated belly. Maggots, pus, and decay came out as for the first time she tasted blood in her family's defense, ripping from the dead man's left hip to his right armpit in one frantic stroke of her steel with all her strength and Will.

But there were more behind him.

Still watching her own body at that odd remove, her left hand flashed to her Luger, speed drew it and emptied all eight hollowpoint rounds in the magazine into the charging horde with odd precision as she fired from the hip. A split second later, Delilah appeared as if by magic, and filled the trench with fire and death from her shotgun.

"A--" Ehren swallowed nervously despite her mouth being dry as a desert. "Accio Hollowpoint." Glyphs flashed on the side of the pistol thanks to Del's enchantments and she felt it gain the familiar weight of it at full load. She cocked it again and then turned to see the situation.

Tsukiakari had joined Colombe and as Ehren watched with awe, the Kyu Gunto decapitate one zombie, took the top of the skull off a second and punched out with her scabbard, blowing a third one into shrapnel all in one move as part of the whirlwind of death that she was. Ehren stepped back to let Zamarad take the place of herself on Delilah's shoulder, and absently noticed Toku slapping an ofuda on the collapsed dugout. Meanwhile Sabah and Andraste relieved Norimune at the cross-trench and the nodachi approached her.

Her grandmother's eyes flickered from Ehren to the gutted corpse at her feet then Norimune clapped her on the shoulder.

No words were said. No words needed to be said.

Avenue Trois, 500 meters from Chattancourt, 1.15 km from Hill 295 (Le Mort Homme)
Spoiler: Avenue Trois

Colombe eventually paused at a turning in the rats' warren of trenches and went to one knee, gesturing for everyone to approach her.

Ehren wearily knelt down beside her mother, and to her shock realized that Colombe was pitching her voice somehow to be heard underneath the infernal noise of the shelling.

"Good work, mes amis. The next part will be tricky. We turn left here into Avenue Trois, the main communications trench up this side of the Ravin de la Mort. The Boche will no doubt have preregistered artillery pounding it to insure that reinforcements cannot reach the meatgrinder up top." Colombe's voice was somber. "Keep shield spells up at all times, Andraste, also if possible project one over us all. Le miaules will be spraying us with shrapnel from airbursts."

The purple-haired girl nodded sharply.

Colombe took a deep breath and continued. "Stay as low as possible, and hug the right wall. It is less likely to collapse and bury you alive. Do what I or the other people in charge do instantly. If... no... when one of us is buried, the rest of the group dig her out. We go in groups, and the middle one be sure to check on the last regularly so they do not become buried and lost."

Ehren nodded along with the others.

"Ehren. Toku. Norimune. You are with me and we go first. Nightbane. One minute then take Andraste, Ying, and Sabah up. Tsu. One more minute then you proceed with Del and Zamarad. At the top if it is still standing there is a T junction, we rally there.

Nightbane and Tsu nodded.

Colombe sketched shield spells on her group, followed by Toku, Norimune, and Ehren. "Suivez-moi!"

Ehren followed on her mother's heels and gasped. The trench ahead was filled with bodies and parts of bodies in a grim and ghastly carpet of shredded raw meat. Keeping low like Colombe, she began to climb up the ravine on her mother's heels.

She grunted at the feel of steel and lead shrapnel hammering her helmet and torso's shield spells like the devil's hailstones. The scream of incoming 77mm shells was constant like a chorus of tortured cats and involuntarily her lips flickered in black gallows humor, for now she could tell why the French called them 'meowers'.

Numbly she continued to climb, noticing that the trench became lower and more and more battered; parts of it were using the bodies of the dead as obscene sandbags to reinforce the walls. The stench was indescribable and her sanity shied away from examining too closely what her hands and feet were clinging to as she journeyed up Golgotha.

Time ceased to have any meaning and her existence shrank to the next step, the next handhold, the next time she pulled herself forward where a shellblast had flung her.

She felt herself becoming nothing more than a numbed machine. A machine forged of steel by Krupp and Muramasa, shaped and smithed at Solingen. A machine manifest in flesh, blood, bone and sinew wheezing painfully as she continued to climb on all fours over the next heap of corpses or shellhole in endless procession. A machine fueled by a Will that drove her on her mother's heels no matter how much she wished to run screaming from this place that hated and hungered for her, instead of willingly plunging herself into the insanity that was Verdun.
 
Waking up shipgirl; Kinryuu the magic dragon (carrier)
Harry Leferts

Elsewhere on the base, another pair of girls also woke up. Stretching a bit, Miitake grinned widely, "Alright! Time to meet a new day."

Moments later though, a pillow smacked her in the face and knocked her back to the bed, "Can't you let up even once? It is too damn early for this..."

In reply, Miitake raised a hand and her pointer finger even as she laid there with the pillow across her face, "Nope! I'm afraid that I can't do that, Nee-San! After all, it is part of my sunny personality you know!"

Sighing, Ishikari raised her head and gave her sister a look before raising the pillow and smacking her in the face twice more with it, "And thank you for that." Getting a thumbs up, she sighed again, "Why do I even try with you, honestly?" Just shaking her head, the Battlecruiser groaned, "Great, now I'm wide awake and can't get back to sleep."

Before she could sort her thoughts for the day though, her sister spoke up, "I know how you could get back to sleep~"

Despite herself, Ishikari turned to her sister who had the pillow on her face lifted just enough for the older of the two to see her grin, "... I am going to regret this, but how?"

If anything, that made Miitake's grin widen, "Simple..." Bringing up her hand, she held it next to her mouth as she stage whispered, "See if Harry-Chan is still in bed. Then, if he is, slip in and cuddle up to him. His warmth and cuddliness that you will find when you place you head on his shoulder will lull you back into sweet slumber~"

For several seconds, Ishikari did nothing though her cheeks went red and she felt some steam escape from her ears, "..."

Now widely grinning, Miitake giggled, "You're imagining it right now, aren't you?"

The pillow soon met her face again as the first of several whacks as the red faced Ishikari sputtered, "S-sh-shut up!"

Several minutes later, it was a grumpy Ishikari who walked out of the room followed by Miitake who was skipping. At the counter getting some tea ready, Midori smiled at them, "Good morning, Onee-Sama, Onee-Chan."

Yawning, the oldest of the Battlecruisers gave a smile and a wave, "Good morning, Midori-Chan..." Her expression soured slightly, "Or it would be if someone did not wake me."

Just poking her older sister in the cheek, Miitake giggled, "But if I didn't, than you would have less time to spend with Harry-Chan before he goes back to Hogwarts! And we would not want that now!" Dodging the swipe at her head, Miitake cackled, "Admit it! You want to spend time with him just as much as I do!"

Looking away, Ishikari huffed a little while muttering. Rather than pay attention to any more teasing from her genki sister, she turned to Midori who was wearing a smile as she watched their antics.

Unlike the two newly up shipgirls who wore sleeping Yukata, Midori wore her uniform which was also different from what her older sisters had. Where their uniform resembled that of the Yamato class, but in black with red accents, Midori's meanwhile had a top not unlike Tatsuta's own and which strained a bit at the bust, over which she wore a white, naval style jacket. Currently, the jacket was hung over a chair while her sword was still on the rack. The outfit signified that her construction was slightly different from her older sister's.

Granted, that did not bother Ishikari or Miitake much. Unlike Non-magical shipyards, ships built at different shipyards had differences that showed up more regarding the shipgirls than with their non-magical counterparts. Mostly, Sakura and Ume had theorized the night before, because unlike with non-magical warships where the parts came from factories, with the magical shipyards practically every part was created on site making each ship built there "Unique" to ones built at a different shipyard. For example, Ishikari's own boilers were copies of one boiler brought to the Caldera. Magicals had used ritual magic to take raw materials and shape them into identical copies of the one boiler. The very same boiler that was used for Miitake as well. All their parts outside aspects such as radar were made much the same way.

That was not going into other aspects either, such as enchanting. After all, each wizard's magic was slightly different when enchanting. It would not surprise Ishikari if Midori's fuel tanks in her hull had been enchanted to be a bit bigger than her own. And that was just one thing different between them.

However, noticing that Midori was giving her a raised eyebrow, the nameship blinked, "Something wrong?"

Only shaking her head, Midori smiled a bit, "Just wondering what you were so deep in thought about, Onee-Sama."

Before Ishikari could say anything, Miitake piped up, "Oh! She was probably thinking about Harry-Chan again. Not that she would admit it being a tsundere-"

Miitake was unable to finish as her older sister whacked her upside the head with a heavy blush on the older's face. Ignoring the grumbles, Ishikari gave a small shrug, "Just thinking of the differences between us due to having different shipyards build us."

For a few seconds, Midori considered that before nodding with a small smile, "Yes, I do suppose that there is aspects quite different there in some respects."

Rolling her eyes as her younger sister crossed her arms under her bust, Ishikari sighed, "Yes, in some respects." She took her own cup of tea before sipping it and humming, "Though not so much in others unlike some."

Both of her sisters looked confused but she just kept sipping her tea. Suddenly, Miitake snapped her fingers, "Oh! Like Kinryuu!"

Confused, the youngest of the three frowned some and looked between them, "Kinryuu?"

Glancing at Miitake, Ishikari sighed some, "Well... I don't know much about her, Ume-San and Sakura-San know more as she was one of the very first ships they completed. But... apparently it has to do with the deal regarding training from the IJN and ship builders." Sipping her tea, she continued, "Now, one of the aspects of the deal was that the Kamo government would build a ship for the No-Majs. Being as this was 1930, what was laid down was a small Carrier, a sister ship for Ryuujou-San which was fully paid for and the like."

A frown on her face, Midori frowned, "What happened to her?"

Just shrugging, Ishikari shook her head, "Well... one of those Naval Treaties happened, which meant that Japan could no longer use the whole under ten thousand tons for a Carrier does not count towards total tonnage bit. So the IJN could not use her, but she was nearly complete." Taking another sip of her tea, she frowned, "So the Kamo government completed her, though there were differences such as having only one hanger for example and said hanger being expanded on the inside as well as strengthening charms on the steel and the like."

Head tilted to the side, the other B-65 slowly nodded, "So in other words, Kinryuu would be different from Ryuujou-San."

That only got her nods from Ishikari and the three sisters continued to chat while enjoying tea. As the minutes ticked by though, Miitake glanced at her older sister before suddenly draining her tea and running. Before Ishikari could ask, Miitake was already in the bathroom and closing the door, "I get first shower!"

Eyebrow twitching, her older sister glared at the door, not noticing Midori looking extremely amused by the antics happening.

___________________________________________________________________

Nearly yanking her hair out, Kizu groaned as she looked at one of the other attendants, "You cannot find her? How..." Pinching her nose, she sighed as the water spirits shook their head with a grimace, "Okay, keep trying to find her then. We cannot let Lady Yodogawa know what has happened."

The water spirits all bowed, "Hai!"

With that, they headed off in different directions within the palace that was Yodogawa's in the spiritual realm. None of them noticed one of the tatami mats slowly lower back into place with a head of pink hair and a face with green eyes beneath it. Under the floor, a young girl sighed as her horns extended a bit, "Good, they'll be busy for a bit."

A small smile on her face, she began to crawl along under the floors, only stopping when she heard footsteps above her. Despite that, she made good time. Granted, the young girl was happy that she had a skirt and kimono shirt combo with a sailor style hat between her horns as it meant that she did not get one of her kimonos dirty. Kizu and the other attendants always made such a fuss about that and she always felt guilty. At least her current outfit could, and often did, get dirty and she was allowed to wash it herself... well, in a way anyways. Though it helped that she was able to float the sleeves above the dirt floor.

One her hands and knees, she made her way along through the underfloor. Not bothered by the darkness, she glanced at some of the things that lurked beneath the floorboards. For a moment, she paused at the sight of a fight between a crocodilian-like Waniguchi and a group of Yanari. Said beings also paused at the sight of her and they stared at each other before giving each other a wave and going back to what they had been doing before seeing the other.

Unable to help herself, the young girl giggled some before flinching and listening. Not hearing any noise showing that she had been discovered, she continued on her way. Eventually, she reached the end of the underfloor and walked along the wall before finding a board marked with an J. Glancing around, she hooked a clawed finger into a hidden hole and shifted it to the side before slipping through and closing it. Coming out from under a porch, she listened carefully before slipping out and into some bushes nearby.

Several minutes found her in an isolated area of the property with one of the ponds in front of her which had a small island and a pagoda on it. With a final glance around, she took a deep breath and took a step out onto the water's surface, rigging forming around her, "Kinryuu, launching." For a little while, she went back and forth on the water's surface, her tail swishing behind her before finally nodding and bringing up what looked like a piece of a very familiar hull and raising her hand, "Okay boys, let's practice until we get caught."

From said hand, a small star formed above it from which paper talismans flew and across the "Runway" of the hull, turning into aircraft that flew up into the air. Thanks to how ancient the trees were, they were tall enough and massive enough to hide what she was doing and the air was filled with droning as her fighters weaved through the air in mock dogfights, as well as small fairies on brooms and tengu. Keeping track of them all, Kinryuu frowned, "Okay, still a bit slow getting all of you up, but we can do better our next practice!"

Roughly forty minutes later, she gave a nod with a smile, "Okay, we're doing a lot better- Eep!"

Two warm arms suddenly wrapped themselves around her and she felt a soft body behind her. Heart pounding from surprise as she jumped, and feeling her pilots similarly shocked from how her "Attacker" had appeared from seemingly nowhere, Kinryuu placed a hand against her chest, "Did I surprise you, Kinryuu-Chan? Huh?" At the nod, Yodogawa cheered, "Yay!" Then she noticed all the planes, "Ooo! Pretty planes!'

Looking over her shoulder at the Mizuchi, the half-dragon gulped, "H-Haha-ue? W-what are you doing here?"

Just tilting her head to the side, Yodogawa blinked, "What am I doing here...?" Furrowing her eyebrows, she frowned, "Mou... I don't remember..." Then, the Mizuchi perked up, "Oh! Are we hiding? Wait, are we playing hide and seek? Because I am really, really good at playing hide and seek!"

As her mother continued to ramble on, Kinryuu internally sighed a bit. She loved the Mizuchi who had given birth to her, she really did. Oh, Ryuujin and the others only knew how much. But sometimes, she really wondered about her mother, "Haha-ue..."

Still rambling, the Mizuchi nodded, "Unless I'm hiding and you're seeking? Because the planes make you really, really good at that." Frowning, she gave her daughter a look, "Mou... does this mean that I lost then?"

Lips twitching a bit as she could not help herself, Kinryuu shook her head, "Um, we're not playing hide and seek, Haha-ue. But... I am sort of hiding..."

Cocking her head to the side, Yodogawa frowned, "Hiding? Why?"

For a few moments, her daughter chewed her lip, "Because... because I want to practice being a shipgirl!" Seeing her mother just looking at her, Kinryuu hung her head, "I... I know that Kizu-Nee and the others want to just keep me safe and stuff. But they don't want me practicing being a shipgirl. And they always stop me stating that I shouldn't be doing such because it is beneath my station or some such and that I'm a Hime..."

Now it was her turn to ramble with it all coming out. How she would sneak out when she could in order to teach herself best that she could. That she would practice and practice until she was caught and brought back for a scolding about what is proper and the like. Because she was her mother's daughter and as the daughter of a higher ranked Mizuchi, she had other things to worry about and that it could break her mother's heart and the like.

Trailing off, Kinryuu sniffled as tears ran down her cheeks, "I... I just feel like I need to do this. And I want to make you and Chichi-ue proud of me since I'm... a half-breed."

It was gone quickly enough, but the young hybrid shivered a bit at the gleam that entered her mother's eyes at hearing that.

While many thought her mother to be a simple idiot, and she certainly seemed like a forgetful person, there were times that Kinryuu really wondered. And seeing the flash of rage in those eyes, even if not directed at her, made it one of those times. But then, Yodogawa was back to normal even if her frown was a borderline scowl, "Mou... who said such meanie pants things about my Kinryuu-Chan?"

Chewing her lip as her tail swished, Kinryuu kept silent before her mother fixed her gaze on her and she flinched before speaking in an unsure whisper, "Fujigawa-Sama... she was drunk at the time though."

Slowly blinking with her pupils narrowed to slits, Yodogawa was silent for a few moments before nodding, "Fuji-San is a big meanie pants at times! And I don't like her saying such things to Kinryuu-Chan even if drunk!"

Far away, Fujigawa shivered violently and looked around with part of her wanting to keep away from alcohol.

Looking back down, Kinryuu scuffed her feet on the water, "She's not the only one though..."

Moments later though, she blinked and looked up as she felt her hat being removed and claws gently brush through her hair as her power over water gently removed any dirt on her daughter's clothing. Then, Yodogawa gently kissed her on the head, "Mou, don't worry about big meanie pants like that." She gave her daughter a smile, "Because they're all jealous of Kinryuu-Chan and how she makes her Haha-ue and Chichi-ue very proud."

Softly sniffling, Kinryuu turned and hugged her mother, neither caring about the tears that soaked the expensive Kimono, "S-sorry, Haha-ue..." Blinking away some tears, she swallowed thickly, "I miss Chichi-ue..."

Gently brushing her daughter's hair, Yodogawa nodded, "So do I, Kinryuu-Chan... every day." The two of them stood like that for a few minutes before the Mizuchi blinked and gasped as she caught sight of a plane, "Ooo! Look, Kinryuu-Chan! It's a plane!" She frowned and tilted her head, "Mou, is that one of your planes...?"

Pulling back, the half-dragon nodded, "Hai, Haha-ue. Eiji-San is one of my better pilots..."

An hour later found the two entering the dining room with Yodogawa's attendants freezing at the sight of them. Kizu glanced at the slightly dishevelled pair before bowing, "Ah, Yodogawa-Sama and Kinryuu-Sama, we were just about to go and find you for breakfast."

Brightly smiling, Yodogawa giggled and spread her arms, "Oh! Oh! We were playing hide and seek..." Finger against her chin, she frowned in confusion, "Mou... I think that I hid and Kinryuu-Chan seeked? Or did I seek and Kinryuu hide... though she is better at seeking with her planes..." Perking, up, she smiled brightly, "But we got to play! And I like seeing her fly her planes so I told her I want to see them more often! Because they're so neat and..."

Just watching as the forgetful Mizuchi made motions with her arms and hands, while making airplane noises, the attendant slowly nodded in confusion, "I... see, Yodogawa-Sama... very well, I do not think that Kinryuu-Sama would mind much..."

When their breakfast was nearly done, Yodogawa raised a finger, "Oh! Kizu-San? I just remembered that we need to find Kyoshu! So that we can help her find a Mizuchi and get a prize..." Furrowing her eyebrows, she frowned, "I think that she would get a prize... Mou... maybe I should ask Jin-San..."

Nodding, Kizu brought out a notebook, wonderful things that she considered the western humans had invented and so very useful, and clicked her pen and made a note, "I see... though I don't know where Kyoshu-San normally is..."

Yodogawa blinked at that and looked at her, "Kyoshu-San...? Why are we looking for Kyoshu-San?"

Her daughter giggled a bit and smiled, "So that we can help her find a Mizuchi and get a prize?"

Eyes widening, Yodogawa gasped, "If she finds a Mizuchi, she gets a prize!" Turning, she looked at her attendant, "Oh! I think that she lives in Zuchi mostly... maybe? Jin-San always goes on about that."

A little confused herself, Kizu only nodded, "I... see..." With a shrug, she made another note and nodded, 'Wouldn't hurt.'
 
The Mill On The Meuse 10 [Verdun]
Yellowhammer

At dawn I stick my head above the parapet. Appearing in the sad gray of the morning and now from a new perspective is the vast battlefield that I've come to know so well. We are twenty meters below the main summit of Mort Homme. To the east of here, roughly two kilometers away, I could make out German positions which lead to the Bois de Courbeaux. On our side and facing them up to the Bois de Caurettes are our gains from 9 April.

What an appearance this battlefield has! For two months it had not stopped. Is the trench that we're in not one of the most disputed? Ten times, perhaps twenty times, it had changed hands. And across this vast field of death gouged with craters like a lunar landscape, everywhere you look, bodies of the dead stick out of the ground.-Second Lieutenant Jubert, 151st Infantry regiment, 12 May, 1916

The Mill On The Meuse (X)

Avenue Trois, 700 meters from Hill 295 (Le Mort Homme)

May 6th, 1916


Ehren du Chasteler gritted her teeth as she levered herself over the lip of another muddy shell hole. The impact of more shrapnel from the overhead airbursts did not register on her nor the roar of continual artillery fire.

The shockwave as a 205mm shell detonated in the ravine below her, blowing her down to the bottom of this shell hole and half burying her to her waist in loose dirt and slime most definitely registered.

She gasped as she vainly tried to free herself from her earthen prison, and then a set of hands grabbed her forearms and pulled.

She numbly looked up to see Andraste, recognizable by the glowing bracer on her wrist, and Sabah pulling her free as Ying gestured with her wand, liquefying the earth trapping her.

"D-danke." she gasped, momentarily broken from her diamond-hard mad focus on keeping up with her family.

Staggering, she crawled up the lip of the shell crater, and then hit the dirt at the sound of yet another instrument of industrial slaughter to her right.
Spoiler: Maschinengewehr 08

Beside her Nightbane and Ying followed suit.

Ehren risked a peek out of cover. In the flickering light ahead, she saw the dim figures of her mother, grandmother, and Toku collapse in a shallow shell crater in a stretch of trench that came to barely knee-height from the constant pounding.

"Mutti! She's pinned down!" Ehren gasped.

She tensed only to feel Nightbane pull her down with an iron grip. "You want to die too?"

Ehren shook her head. "Nein, but we can't just leave them like that."

Ying grimaced. "I can send a duplicate of myself to check on them."

"Do that." Nightbane grunted.

As Ying grasped the hilt of her saber and sat in concentration, Ehren slowly raised her eyes above the lip of the crater again. She ignored the slightly glowing mist flowing from her sister's lips to another shell hole a dozen meters ahead and instead waited with patience. As the false-Ying began to sprint toward the shell hole where Colombe, Toku, and Norimune were pinned down, Ehren's eyes narrowed.

If I were giving my answer in SS-Junkerschule to this tactical problem, I would position my support weapon...there!

Ehren's gaze locked on the muzzle flame of the MG 08 ahead and to the right as it riddled the illusion with bullets. "Nightbane, I have the location for that verdammnt machine gun," she hissed as her eyes hardened.

"W, mate?" The bayonet joined her.

Ehren pointed, "One hundred fifty meters more or less right there. Shell hole that is perhaps sandbagged. It is sweeping the route with fire."

Ying opened her eyes. "Father is hit in the leg, Toku took two rounds in the chest, and Norimune dragged them both to cover. They can't move up or down."
Spoiler: Tea And Biscuits With Cousin Fritz

Nightbane frowned. "Sabah, cop up 'ere. Once she's up top, give us aunuvver decoy, Yin'."

As the Machine gun spat flame and lead at yet another illusion, Nightbane grinned ferally. "Good mince pies, Ehren. Say we go over there and introduce ourselves for a spot o' tea and biscuits, then, eh, mate?"

Ehren's matching smug smile showed all her teeth inside her gas mask.

"Right, ladies. Yin', Andraste stay 'ere, alert Tsu wen she gets 'ere and move once we 'ave care o' Cousin Fritz. I'll pop a purple Right Light wen we do then 'ook back ter the bloomin' trench. Sabah, Ehren, yer come wiv me." Nightbane punctuated his orders by chambering a round in his rifle.

Sabah drew her scimitar and Ehren her pistol. Then they began to leopard-crawl from shell hole to shell hole.

Ehren's eyes widened as they approached the machine gun. While she prized herself on being unobtrusive until it was time to strike, she was in awe of the elder blade spirit ahead of her. Sabah was a silent, effortless phantom, using every scrap of cover, freezing almost before any explosions illuminated them, and moving without trace. If it was not for the faint firefly glow of her poisoned blade, Ehren would not even know that she was within arm's reach of her. Ehren bit her lip as she thanked any deities watching them that tonight this silent Angel of Death was on her side.

Finally Sabah ghosted into a shell hole alongside two corpses barely five meters from the machine gun pit and off to their left. Ehren slid down alongside her and slowly drew her true body in her left hand as her right gripped her pistol.

Faintly she heard voices from the undead troops ahead.

"Siehst Du etwas?" {Do you see anything?}

Nightbane slapped her on the ankle, and she looked back and down to see the bayonet unclip a grenade from his web gear.

"Keine Bewegung, Otto, sie verstecken sich." {No movement, Otto. they are hiding.}

Ehren nodded along with Sabah and tensed her legs, digging the toes of her boots into the muddy, bloody ground as she took deep breaths to fill her lungs. Inside her stomach, her gut twisted with anticipation.

"Kommt raus und spielt, kleine französische Hasen..." {Come out and play, little French rabbits...}
Spoiler: Sturmangriff

She saw the grenade fly overhead into the pit and screamed at the top of her lungs as she charged.

"Sturmangriff! Vorwärts!"(Assault! Forward)

Beside her Sabah shrieked like a desert falcon as they sprinted side by side.

"La ilaha illa Allah wa Muhammadun rasulu l-Lah wa 'Aliyun wali llah!"(There is no god to God, and Muhammad is the Messenger of God, and the eyes are God's guardian!)

Her finger caressed the trigger on her Luger as she fired on the run at the silhouettes revealed by the explosion of the grenade.

One, then a second spun away with fist sized holes in them as her pistol emptied.

She slammed the pistol into the side of the first undead in the hole and pulled the trigger twice.

To her side, Sabah's glowing blade nicked the gunner who collapsed bonelessly and began to convulse over the machine gun, shrieking hideously like a damned soul burning in Hell.

Movement out of the corner of her eye and her Ehrendolch lashed out like lightning.

The loader's fingers and spinning brass cartridges from the ammunition belt that he was planning to choke her with flew away from her stroke then his torso slid apart in unequal chunks from a backhand stroke from Sabah.

The last member of the machine gun team started to run in panic.

CRACK

He dropped bonelessly and Ehren turned to see Nightbane kneeling at the edge of the pit with smoke coming from his rifle barrel above cold, brutal eyes.

"Nice work, girls. Right. That's 'ow we invite Cousin Fritz(germans) ter tea and biscuits."

Sabah nodded and thrust herself into all the wounded to give them a swift venomed death as Ehren opened the Maxim gun's action, pulled the bolt out, then threw it down the ravine into the darkness with all her strength.

Nightbane then raised a stubby pistol and pulled the trigger. With a pop, a purple parachute flare appeared overhead.

"Sabah, point, Ehren, back her up."

Ligne Un bis, 200 meters from the top of Hill 295 (Le Mort Homme)

Ehren breathed a sigh of relief as she slid into the shell hole where the rest of her family were. Mutti was bent over with a blood and mud stained bandage around her left leg, while Toku was glowing a faint green as she meditated. The rest of the spirits who had joined her for their walk through Hell were spread out around the lip of the room-sized crater that had narrow trench entrances dug at the south, east and west lips, and a low dugout to the north.
Spoiler: Le Mort Homme

She spared a glance up the overhanging slope ahead and slightly to the northwest.

The summit was a mass of explosions and airbursts. Through the smoke and dust she gasped as she saw movement, the top of the entire hill was seething with an army of the unburied dead like an obscene anthill.

All of them seemed to be going toward a pillar of green fire that was so dark that it seemed almost black.

Colombe walked beside Ehren and her jaw set. "Right. This is how we do it. From here on out we will be fighting for our lives. Ring formation. Zamarad, Andraste in the middle. Andraste, project a shield over us all and keep it up. Zamarad, burn a hole in their lines straight to the breach and keep it open. I have point, Toku and Ying with me. Norimune, Ehren, right flank. Tsukiakari, Sabah, left flank. Del, Nightbane bring up the rear and support us with cover fire."

Everyone nodded as Colombe finished. "Get to the breach, get the talismans laid, and then sell ourselves as dearly as possible to buy time for the ritual. It's been a honor."

The rapier's blade blazed brightly against the darkness, joined by the other weapons as Andraste projected a shield of crackling golden light over them.

"À la charge! Attaque!"

As Ehren ran at Norimune's shoulder she felt a sudden flash of heat on her left side, shocking even through the uniform and chemical warfare gear.

A moment later, a bright red-orange flame to her left lit up the hill ahead and then a wave of fire slammed into the teeming mass of undead. The front ranks vanished instantly like twigs in a blast furnace, while the ones beyond appeared as black skeletons in the flames as they burned to ashes.

One hundred fifty meters.


A second pulse of heat followed as they began to climb the steaming clay of the hill that had been baked as if it was in a kiln by the force of Zamarad's power. More flames shot forth, cutting a hole in the ranks as bullets ricocheted off Andraste's shield.

One hundred meters.

At Ehren's side, Norimune swung her massively oversized blade and a whip of fire exploded from it into the undead charging for them. Burning bodies and parts of bodies flew like rain. Ehren fired her pistol.

"Accio Hollowpoint!"

Seventy-five meters.

Ehren's pistol clicked empty again. As she gutted a skeletal zoauve lunging for her throat with bony fingers, she gasped out the command to reload again. "Accio Hollowpoint!" Another wave of fire seared her skin and the Zoauve burst into flames as she kicked it off her.

Fifty meters.

A stench unlike anything she thought possible choked Ehren's lungs as a shambling vaguely man-shaped monstrosity three times her size composed of excrement, seething maggots, drowned corpses, and bloody mud loomed overhead as it waded through the burning and shattered bodies of lesser undead. Norimune screamed in disgust alongside her and swung her blade at it as it reached for her.

The Nodachi sank to the hilt in the golem. Norimune clenched her teeth and the creature bubbled and then exploded, showering Ehren with a liquid too foul to comprehend or describe. All of that meant nothing as Ehren clubbed a zombie away from Norimune's flank with her jammed pistol and then stabbed it through it's rotten heart. The one behind it was hit by a glowing bullet fired from Delilah, flashed into a photographic negative of itself, and then tentacles of necromantic energies shot from the undead to its companions, ripping their tortured souls free of their rotting bodies in the banishment.

Seventeen meters.

Ehren gasped as she saw a thin line of undead and ghosts standing at the edge of a green-black glowing crater sunk into the top of the hill. They were desperately fighting their compatriots, trying to keep them from enlarging the opening to The Monster.

She slammed her elbow into the throat of the zombie grappling with her. That gave her enough space to get her knife arm free. As filthy, broken teeth went for her throat, she reached back and flung her true self with all her strength at the back of one of the undead attacking the defenders then blinked her avatar out of existence.

Eight meters.

She came to herself buried halfway up her blade in the back of a poileu, ripped herself free and hurled herself again, ignoring the stabbing pain in her side from a trench knife.

Two meters.


She blinked into being, and landed in a fighting crouch. Ignoring her wounds, ignoring the tide of undead scant meters away coming for her, ignoring everything but her duty, her free hand found the coin around her neck and with a sudden jerk she snapped the chain and cast it into the pit behind her.

General Phillipe Petain's Headquarters, Souilly

Medea of Colchis's eyes snapped open and filled with arcane power. Dressed in a jet black peplos dress and with her hair down contained by a tiara of gold, she gestured with her wand of white poplar wood from one of the trees overlooking the spring of Lethe and with a core of Cerberus' fur. As Albus Dumbledore, Augusta Longbottom, Henri de Maintenon, Jezabel de Breuil, and a full forty-four other wizards channeled power into her, she levitated in the center of their circle from their combined arcane power and began to chant a prayer in her native tongue that she had learned as a young woman.

Great Hades, master of the darkened deep,
master of the realm beneath our feet who hears
the echoes of our steps, who takes the echoes
of our lives. Hades, you know the need for an end
to life, you know the worth of a well-deserved rest,
you know the thanks of men and women weary
from long lives of worry and toil, you know the joy
of sweet reunion as friends long parted join
together once again within your storied land.
The dim and misty underworld is yours, O Hades;
yours are the Fields of Asphodel, yours the endless
pits of Tartarus in which are cast the wicked
and the vile. Yours too are the Fortunate Isles,
the land of fair Elysium where dwell the righteous
and the good. Hades, receiver of burnt offerings,
receiver of the blood of beasts, well-honored god:
in the end, all come to you. Hades, I praise you.


Le Mort Homme (Hill 295)

May 7th, 2014


Ehren sensed more than heard the frustrated, weakening cry of the Monster as she fought for her life alongside the defenders of Le Mort Homme. A rifle butt slammed into her side and she grunted in pain, grabbing the bony wrist of her attacker and then smashing her helmeted head into his rotting face.

Her eyes widened as a familiar rainbow-glowing rapier impaled the next zombie in the endless tide. She sobbed in relief at the blood-streaked face of her mother as the ground shook and the crack behind her began to slowly close.

Colombe took position at Ehren's side after tossing her ferryman's payment into the crack in the wards. The dagger defended her mother's flank as the rapier cast spells to assist the rest of their team to stagger in. Toku was next, flanking Colombe on the other side, then Tsukiakari hacked her way through a knot of German dead. Andraste half-carried the exhausted Zamarad past her. The Ifrit formed a scimitar of weakly flickering flame in each hand to cover Nightbane and Norimune.
Spoiler: The Dead Of The Great War

The endless attacks were like a horrid nightmare as the smoke faded and the darkness slowly vanished. The shattered hellscape wavered and then vanished like blown smoke to be replaced by a pine wood illumined by the first rays of dawn.

Ehren slowly staggered, vaguely aware of the half-visible shades of the army of the dead around her and her numbed brain looked at the white marble statue of a skeleton holding his winding shroud and a furled French flag proudly and defiantly. Her eyes lowered to seek the inscription of the monument to the dead of Le Mort Homme.

Ils n'ont pas passé

They did not pass.
 
Mess Hall
Harry Leferts

Walking towards the Mess Hall, Ume ran her fingers through her hair with a small nod, "I will admit, the combination of the combs and the brush work wonderfully on our hair."

As she hummed, Sakura sniffed her hair with a small smile, "Hai, as does the shampoo and conditioner that Harry-Chan supplied. Our hair has rarely looked better than what it does now." Head tilted to the side, she tapped her chin before turning to her sister, "Though the soap was also good, though that is a modern invention."

Smile brightening, the other Twin nodded, "Hai, and it was also good. Our skin is both clean and yet so soft. Truly, the world in this time is wonderful." Considering things, Ume hummed, "Though I will admit, while I do need to get used to such things, the shower is a wonderful invention."

Just nodding as well, Sakura smiled, "Hai, it really is. And such a simple idea as well! Though I do like how we can adjust the temperature of the water that comes out as we wish. But it is like standing in a warm rain shower. I can understand how it has become popular what with how quickly and efficiently it gets one clean with a minimum of fuss."

Running her fingers through her hair, Ume made a sound of agreement. While they still preferred baths, the two of them believed that showers could also be used... especially to get clean before the bath. Something that they looked forward to testing later to say the least.

However, she was brought out of her musing by a shout, "UME-SAN! SAKURA-SAN!" Turning, they found a grinning Miitake making her way towards them, "GOOD MORNING!"

Both Twins shared a look before giggling at the energetic Battlecruiser, "And a good morning to you as well, Miitake-San, Ishikari-San." Spotting something, they bowed a bit, "As well as you, Denryuu-San."

When she turned, Miitake jerked a bit at seeing the Carrier with her sister, Taihou, "Wait, when did you get there?"

Lightly smirking, Denryuu gave her an amused look, "I have been here for a few minutes... but us Carriers operate best when one does not know where we are." That got her giggles from the former Hitobashira and a huff from Miitake, though judging from said Battlecruiser's expression, she was also rather amused over it. Glancing over, she gave a nod to Mihara who arrived with Akashi and Momotori, "Mihara-San."

A smile on her face, the Repair Ship nodded, "Denryuu-San."

Soon after, Mihara and Denryuu introduced their sisters to their friends. Akashi bowed to them and gave a knowing look to Taihou who also smiled a little, "Thank you, but I think that perhaps we should give you some time to talk amongst yourselves." Giving them a wink, she continued, "After all, you're all friends."

For her part, Denryuu looked unsure until Taihou gave her a small hug, "I am not going anywhere and I shall see you inside... Imouto."

Those words caused a burst of warmth inside the chests of both Armoured Carriers. But Denryuu gave a small nod, "Hai, Onee-Chan."

With a final pat on the shoulder and hug, Taihou walked away and into the mess hall with Akashi and Momotori following. Once they were inside, Ishikari turned and gave Denryuu a small smile, "How did last night go? Meeting your Nee-San?"

Much to her surprise, Denryuu fully smiled, "It was wonderful." Blinking away a slight tear, she shook her head and turned to the others, "I... will not go too much into it, but... Onee-Chan and I had a good night talking with each other."

From where she stood, Mihara had a similar smile, "Same with me and Onee-Sama as well as Nee-San." At their looks, she gave a small shrug, "Onee-Sama had some experience due to meeting Momotori, but..." Her expression softened, "We cried some at meeting each other just the same."

Everyone smiled at how happy the two newly summoned and freed shipgirls looked at what had happened the night before. Sakura placed a hand on Mihara's shoulder and nodded, "That is wonderful and I'm happy..." She then turned towards Denryuu, "For the both of you."

Bowing slightly, Denryuu sighed happily, "Thank you, Sakura-San." Curious, the Carrier turned towards the two Battlecruisers, "How did things go with your Imouto?"

The two B-65s considered the question before glancing at each other. Ishikari then frowned a little and gave a small shrug, "It went well enough, but the three of us did not know each other well enough to really, well, miss any others."

Miitake gave her own shrug, though with her usual easy grin on her face, "But we were all happy and the like just the same." Crossing her arms, she chuckled some, "Though Midori-Chan mentioned that once everything settles for us, we're going to start our training." Bringing up her arms, the Battlecruiser flexed them, "Can't wait to fire these guns even if in training."

Rolling her eyes, Ishikari grabbed her sister's arms and pushed them down, "Stop that."

Unable to help herself, Mihara's lips twitched a bit before she turned to the others, "Well, Onee-Sama is going to start training me up to be a full on Repair Ship and mentioned that she is going to be helping you as well, Sakura-San, Ume-San."

Simply nodding, the two Installation girls smiled, "Hai, we were informed of much the same ourselves. They will also be bringing someone named Dewey from Sasebo to teach us some things as well."

Eyebrows furrowing, it took Mihara a few moments before she nodded, "I think that is one of the Floating Dry Docks that have been summoned by the Americans. Onee-Sama mentioned her anyways." Her expression softened some, "You should be happy as I am sure that you both will do well under her."

Much to her amusement, both twins flushed a little even as they smiled. Denryuu then spoke up, "As for myself, Onee-Chan has already stated that she will be helping me to train as will Houshou-Kaa-San. And I am looking forward to proving myself..."

That pronouncement was met with nods and sounds of agreement from the others. Not long after though, Miitake pumped her fist into the air, "Okay! Now time to head over to Mess Hall for breakfast and to see Harry-Chan!"

Upon entering the Mess Hall, their eyes widened some like the night before due to the activity that was going on. Thankfully, things had calmed down from the initial rush and the main people going to the line were those who were coming back for seconds or thirds. Taking the trays, which were twice the size as normal ones, the girls entered the line and soon got various drinks.

As they continued down the line, they noticed Harry bringing out something and dumping it into the trays that were there. Waving, Miitake grinned, "Harry-Chan! Over here!"
Once more, her sister tried, without success, to get her to stop. For his part, Harry ignored the amused glances and head shakes being given to him and walked over, "Good morning, Miitake-Chan. How are things today?"

Grin on her face, Miitake chuckled, "Great now that we get to talk with you!"

Ignoring the light laugh from Harry, Sakura looked over the food that was on display and frowned, "Um, Harry-San? Nee-San and I hate to be a bother, but..."

For his part, Harry understood the underlaying question, "You want to know what to eat, I take it? Or what we have?" At the shy nod, he smiled, "Not a problem, I don't mind at all." Giving their choices of drinks a once over, he gave a nod before gesturing from where he just came from, "Well, I was just putting some more bacon into the tray there. Over here are the more western foods, such as ham, bacon, sausage, eggs done up various ways, potato cakes... that sort of thing. Next to that is the more traditional Japanese fare for breakfasts including rice and himono. Beyond that, there's some miso in pots kept warm... and after that are the bakery area."

At that, Denryuu perked up some, "Onee-Chan stated that you often work in the bakery area..." Seeing the looks, her cheeks pinkened slightly, "I... asked her about where in the kitchens you work most often."

Harry simply nodded at that, "And she's right, I do work mostly baking in the mornings. For example, the yoghurt muffins, cinnamon waffles, and cinnamon pancakes are my work." Tapping his chin, he gestured at the same area, "There's other things as well, like toast."

That made Ume frown in confusion, "Um, toast?"

Just chuckling, the thirteen year old smiled a bit, "Hai, toast." Shaking his head, he sighed a bit, "It's pretty popular in the morning and a lot of shipgirls will make small towers of the stuff. It's why next to that, you have what you put on your toast in small packages. Butter, jams, peanut butter, chocolate hazelnut spread, honey, caramel spread... a lot."

Part of that though made Ishikari frown in confusion, "Caramel spread...?"

Glancing around, Harry leaned towards her, "A number of shipgirls really have sweet tooths, so they enjoy having some on toast or what have you. They also drown their pancakes and waffles in syrup." Pulling back, he snapped his fingers, "Right! Since this is your first breakfast back, when you get them just call out for me as I have a little something special..."

When they reached the spot, their tray piled high with food, Harry came out with small boxes about as large as his hand and placed them on their trays. Confused, Mihara looked at it, "Um, Harry-Chan? What is this?"

A grin on his face, Harry tapped the side of his nose, "The boxes have danishes, warm from the oven. Just have your magical fairies cancel the shrinking charms to let them get back to full size... hopefully, you'll enjoy them..."

Something that they certainly did as each one was massive and fitting for girls of their appetites.

Later, once they were done and the breakfast rush was over, Harry gave a small nod to Kansha, "Thanks for helping."

The knife set chuckled a bit as he cleaned his blades alongside Harry, "You are very welcome, Master. Besides, I'll admit that I don't mind this." His gaze softened a little, "It reminds me of when my first Master's family owned a resturant."

Rather than say anything, Harry just nodded. He already had gotten the tale in regards to what had happened. Instead, he gave the Muramasa a glance, "So, what do you think of the foods cooked here so far?"

Humming as he finished drying his last blade, Kansha picked up the cookbook there and flipped through it before putting it back into place, "New and challenging." A grin crossed his face at that, "And in my book, that's always a good thing. Been a while since I really stretched my cooking muscles..." Chuckling, the knife set waved Harry off, "Anyways, you should get going before those girls get too bored and come looking for you."

That got him a laugh from the teenage wizard. Shaking his head, Harry dried off his hands and hung up his apron, "True enough... see you around, Kansha."

Lips twitching, the Muramasa bid him goodbye before picking up another cookbook and beginning to look though it. If there was one thing he enjoyed about his new Master, it was that he let him read any of the Potter family cookbooks. And as they had recipes from all over the world and from different times... he was more than happy.

Walking outside, Harry gave a wave and a smile towards the gathered Caldera girls. Internally, part of him sighed at what was going to happen. But as any true man would, he simply straightened his back and met his fate with a smile, "So, ready for some shopping?"

Just laughing as she placed her hands behind her head, Miitake grinned, "You bet, Harry-Chan! We got to fill out everything we need after all..." She jerked her head towards Ume and Sakura who flushed slightly, "Well, except for these two. They want to wait for a bit until they can go to Kyoto before getting too much as they are more for traditional wear."

If anything, the Twin's blush deepened some, "We simply prefer such clothing and what other modern clothing we might get, well..." Glancing at Harry, their faces went completely red and they looked away, "We are not comfortable yet with shopping with Harry-Chan for."

For a few moments, Harry gave a shrug as he understood what that meant, 'Yeah, going shopping for that would be too... wait.' Blinking, he replayed what they had said, his face slowly going red, 'Did they just say... DAMMIT PUBERTY!'

Not knowing of how the teenage wizard with them was currently beating his hormones with a massive spiked club in his head, the Twins calmed themselves down and turned to him. Granted, they blinked at how Harry punched himself in the head, 'Wonder why he is doing that...?'

Once he got himself under control, Harry shook his head and gave the gathered girls smiles, "Anyways, we should probably get going since the bus will be waiting. And my arms are ready to carry the bags." It was then that he noticed that the Twins walked up to him, "Ume-Chan? Sakura-Chan? Do you need something?"

Sharing a look, the Twins smiled a bit before Sakura spoke up, "Not truly, but we wish to thank you for this morning in regards to your gift. We are very thankful for it."

A blush on his face, Harry scratched the back of his head, "Um, you're welcome?"

Moments later though, his blush deepened as first Sakura and then Ume gave him a kiss with smiles on their faces. Seeing his expression, the Twins giggled, "There, now we have thanked you for the gift."

Upon seeing the grin on Miitake's face though, Harry gave an unsure grin, 'Uh, oops?'

________________________________________________

That evening after dinner found Harry standing in front of the Vanishing Cabinet that would take him to Britain. With a deep breath, he looked behind him at those of his friends that had gathered to say goodbye to him for at least two months as he went back to Hogwarts. Lips curling into a smile, he gave a hug to Shinano, "I'll see you and Regina in two weeks, okay? So that we can spend time in Hogsmeade though it is not a Hogsmeade Weekend."

Nodding, Shinano returned the hug happily, "Hai, Regina-Chan should be finished with her rebuild then." As she pulled back slightly, she gave him a kiss on the cheek, "I'll see you then."

Softly smiling, Harry returned the kiss to the cheek, "Hai, see you then."

One by one, the others came up and gave him either hugs or kisses on the cheek. Natsumi hugged him tightly, "Just be careful and safe, okay? For me, Harry-Chan?"

Chuckling, Harry nodded as he kissed her cheek and returned the hug just as tightly, "I'll do my best. Especially as it seems that there's only one big life or death thing at the end of the school year."

Happily humming, the Kitsune pulled back and was replaced by the Twins, who kissed both his cheeks, "We'll be looking forward to seeing you play Quidditch, Harry-Chan. And to be shown around Hogwarts."

Kissing them both on their cheeks, Harry smiled, "And I will, trust me on that. You'll love seeing everything at Hogwarts too, I know it."

Shortly after, he pulled away from them as him and his mother entered the Vanishing Cabinet and soon enough, they were back in Britain for the last few months of the year...
 
The Mill on the Meuse [Verdun] (Epilogues)
Yellowhammer

Our mission was to get crushed. The divisions followed each other, holding back the steel of the enemy with the flesh of men. They had no other role than to every day raise in front of him a veritable wall of corpses. This was our fate for six months. The whole challenge of command was thus reduced simply to allotting just enough of an amount to the Minotaur, his meagre ration. History will later speak more about our role and the tragic grandeur of our sacrifice.

Above all is the will to be victorious. It was necessary that France on its own should affirm that it will not to be defeated. She pledged her word to this. For six months, before the eyes of the whole world, Verdun was what was at stake for French honour. - Second Lieutenant Jubert, 151st Infantry Regiment, 1919.


The Mill on the Meuse (Epilogues)

Le Mort Homme (Hill 295)

May 7th, 2014

Spoiler: Those Who Served

Ehren gasped for breath and shook uncontrollably like a drowning woman who had been granted a new lease on life. Numbly, operating on habit and discipline more than the thought that she was not capable of, she caged away Grendel once more in her soul's depths. She felt a strange regret and sense of loss as she once more amputated what she could be from what she chose to limit herself to.

Once she was in control of her darker side once more, Ehren slowly sheathed her dagger body. Next she automatically unjammed and safed her pistol before returning it to the shoulder holster. Her hands trembled and she watched herself perform these action in a stunned and detached daze as if she was watching the actions of a stranger in some incomprehensible dream-like movie.

Her shaking fingers found the buckle of her dented, stained, and scarred Stahlhelm's chinstrap, and she numbly unbuckled it to let the mountain-sized weight fall from her head. The gas mask joined her helmet on the ground and she shook her sweaty, bloody hair out to lay limply around her shoulders.

A stabbing pain in her side registered in a detached way through the mental fog that she was in, and her questing hand came back with red blood on her fingertips as she touched the rusty 'French Nail' crude trench knife that had been rammed into her abdomen through the ballistic plate and kevlar of her vest.
Spoiler: French Nail
eng_pl_Grabendolch-German-combat-trench-knife-repro-5383_1.jpg


Curious. She couldn't remember when that happened, she absently thought as she pulled the iron blade free from her body and dropped it to the ground alongside her helmet.

Her fumbling fingers found the shape of a healing potion in the medical pouch and she drank it. The bitter, astringent liquid tasted like the finest brandy or the purest spring water that she could ever imagine.

As her wounds began to slowly heal, she noticed Mutti standing next to her, looking at one of the slowly fading army of ghosts with tears streaming down her haunted eyes. Her mother whispered in German to be replied to by the wind in the pine needles of the trees that ever so slowly were reclaiming this poisoned and battered hill for cleaner, better purposes one day far in the future.

"K-K-Karl P-Potter is it you?"

The young man in the prime of his life nodded, running his fingers through his messy blonde hair and then twirling one of his waxed mustaches.

"It is. It is good to see you too, Cousin."

Colombe sobbed in a pained whisper. "A long way from Africa. I'm sorry that I could not be there for you. I'm sorry about Tamenokalt. I'm sorry... for killing you that night."

Karl touched the head sized hole in the right side of his chest with the scorch marks of a lightning bolt spell. "You have nothing to be sorry for at the end, Colombe. After we parted, and Tamenokalt died along with my unborn daughter, I... wished to join her." His hand drifted up to the neck ribbon of the Pour le Mérite (For Merit) medal for valor with oak leaves on his Imperial German officer's uniform. "I came here seeking death, to be with my beloved. I was mad, we all were then."

Colombe soberly nodded.

"You gave me what I was seeking. A quick and painless way to join my beloved in death. But more importantly, you saved my soul. When I saw in your eyes your horror at the man I had become as you fought through the Inferi that I had summoned to take Toter Mann(dead man)... I realized that I must make amends to truly deserve to be with the ones that I loved."

Karl's eyes looked over at Ehren as the dagger walked beside her mother. "Your child, yes?"

Colombe gently embraced Ehren around the shoulder and nodded. "Yes. My youngest, Ehren du Chasteler."

"She has your looks and your spirit." Karl began to fade as beside him the spectral image of a beautiful young Berber woman with olive skin, dark hair, and a look of love on her face began to faintly appear beside him. "And your honor."

"T-Tamenokalt?!?" Colombe's voice broke and her tears flowed. She half collapsed, only held up in Ehren's arms as she wailed in grief for some of her closest friends from the darkest part of her life who had helped her learn how to live once more before death separated her from them.

The young woman nodded and embraced her husband as the image of a young toddler with messy dark blonde hair dressed in a child's dress from before the Great War embraced her parents and waved hesitantly to Ehren and Colombe.

Karl, Tamenokalt, and the young girl slowly faded as the rays of sunlight crept across the top of Le Mort Homme. Faintly Ehren heard the wind in the branches whisper one final message from those who had gone before to those who remained and endured.

"Remember us. Auf Wiedersehen, bis wir uns wiedersehen...."

Nécropole nationale de Chattancourt, Chattancourt France.

May 8th, 2014

Spoiler: Ceux de Verdun

Ehren limped through the gate to the cemetery alongside Ying, who was blinking with her one good eye from the bandages on her head as her sister guided her. Healing potions and medi-wizards' spells had allowed her to be somewhat mobile despite her injuries, but every muscle in her body ached.

The physical pain was nothing to the wounds scarring her spirit now. Her torn and scarred flesh would mend, but her mind and soul were equally scarred.

Part of her had left Moulbaix four short days ago and would never return when she came back home.

Part of her was in a place that Claire would never, must never journey to.

And yet, that part of her was now closer to the others who had somehow fought their way through the Monster. Tokunotakai. Nightbane. Andraste. Sabah. Tsukiakari. Aunt Zamarad. Aunt Delilah. Big Sister Ying. Grandmother Norimune.


Mother.

And she knew that if they were called up on to seal another breach that the survey led by Professor Aetios and others found, that she would march alongside them into the maw of the Monster once more. For honor, duty and faithfulness, yes, but also for the friendship and shed blood for each other that only those who had come through the crucible of battle together could understand.
Spoiler: Chattancourt Military Cemetery


She looked at the hundreds upon hundreds of crosses resting peacefully at the foot of the low wooded ridge dominated by Le Mort Homme.

Thousands of hopes, fears, and dreams that had come here to sacrifice themselves for different reasons.

Thousands of lives cut brutally short in the War To End All Wars.

And yet a mere tithe of the deaths that had hallowed this place lay here in eternal watch over their battlefield.

For were not these the fortunate few who had been identified and given an individual place of eternal rest and honor to call their own?

She watched Zamarad and Sabah half lean on each other for support along with their crutches as they headed to the section of the cemetery with the Muslim graves, containing those who had journeyed from Morocco, Algeria, and other far-flung French colonial possessions in North Africa and the Middle East to lie here facing Mecca.

She could not tell if it was tears or the drizzling spring rain that wet her cheeks. Her eyes focused on the French tricolor flag that flew proudly at the far end of the necropolis from her.

She understood a little more now.

About life and death.

About honor and duty.

About the true cost of choices, sacrifice, and service.

About her family.

About Mother.


About herself.

Words that she had read but never comprehended before now came to mind as she looked at the gently flapping flag.

"I believe our flag is more than just cloth and ink. It is a universally recognized symbol that stands for liberty, and freedom. It is the history of our nation, and it's marked by the blood of those who died defending it."

With that, she turned sharply to her right and began to walk down the nearest row of crosses, reading each nameplate solemnly to engrave them on her heart.

She owed the dead of Verdun that honor of remembrance now.

For like them, she too had willingly walked into the maw of the Mill on the Meuse.

Like them too, she had sacrificed something of herself to remain here as the cost willingly paid to save others from a worse fate.


Like them too, she was and always would be one of the Ceux de Verdun.(Those of Verdun.)
 
Abyssal betrayals; Dark portents
Harry Leferts

Flickering ghostly blue light caused shadows to dance and weave across the room before Murdina opened one eye to regard the Abyssals that all sat down around a table. Unlike other meetings, there were only a handful of Princesses there. Ailith, who was one of the smallest Battleship Princesses ever being barely five feet tall, Fiona who was a Supply Depot Princess type, and Lyall, a Submarine Princess. Each one of them dismissed by the others for the most part.

Which Murdina considered one of their biggest mistakes.

Rather than say anything, she nodded at her Steward who poured out some drink before she took a sip. Once she set down the goblet, Murdina frowned, "Yeh all know why we are all here ta day. So I will not mince words about why this Council shall be here."

Ailith gave a sharp nod before taking a sip of her own drink, not worried about it being poisoned. She knew that if Murdina wanted her dead, she would not be so crass as to poison her in her own home, "Aye, quick and ta the point. Just one o' th' reasons that I like yeh."

Simply nodding with her hands clasped in front of her face, Murdina glanced at each one of them, "Thank yeh. Now than, th' question is how th' war is going and what is happening out there... And how close to completion our plan is."

Everyone there turned towards the Submarine Princess who had her eyes closed as if asleep. But then she opened them and more than one had to shove down a shudder at the cold, dead look in those eyes, "The war is going as you expected, milady. As you believed, Ancient Atlantic Gateway, or as she is now calling herself, Porta Abysseum Atlantia, has made her move. The 'Rogue' Abyssals that joined several fleets turned on them and have made their way back to her as we knew that they would."

Chortling, Fiona shook her head, "Why anyone would have expected differently, I do not know. It was an obvious move for her to sow discord." At that, everyone, even Heather who was a human, chuckled. In the cutthroat environment that they had in their kingdom, such a move was something done by a child. Hence why none of the 'Survivors' were taken in by the Clans. However, Fiona frowned some and glanced towards Lyall, "What is this though that I heard about some killing others for the 'Atlantic Empress'? Is tha' the Boot as weel now?"

Very slowly, the Submarine nodded, "Aye, th' is th' Boot from all we have found out. She did not claim any o' those killed by her treachery, but they claimed ta be from some mysterious Princess." A smirk appeared on her face, "Though it has been useful as we have sown our own chaos since."

Just blinking, Ailith gave her fellow Abyssal a look, "Some o' tha' was yeh?"

If anything, Lyall's smirk grew, "As I said, fer once th' Boot was useful. Though I imagine her ta be more confused and angry aboot somethin' recent we did, aye." Seeing the looks of interest, she chuckled though her eyes kept looking dead, "Got our hands on one o' them human vessels tha' other Abyssals have been usin' since Bludd Week when they captured them. Filled 'er up with explosives we had and steered her adrift tawards one o' the other Fleets with soom imps onboard. They were jus' aboot to board when that Daemoon of th' Boot's showed up. Killed the lot o' them... and we detonated th' ship when they were all close... Nearly sank some o' the Boot's fleet, though that Daemoon was only badly hurt, but angry and confused aboot how a signal of 'For the Atlantic Empress' sounded from the ship before she blew."

For a few moments, Murdina considered that. Oh, she had no doubt that no accents were involved that could point their way. Especially as for a brief moment, Lyall's voice when she recited what was said before the ship blew was in the same accent as Ancient Atlantic's own fleet. Each one of Lyall's clan were the Assassins and intelligence agents among the Clans, the ones best able to put a dagger in someone's back. Yet, unlike the others, they were more willing to stay out of the normal internecine warfare between the Clans. Not once did they ever make a move to claim the crown in their entire history.

Something that, in Murdina's eyes, made them all the more dangerous and deadly.

However, that said, they were also smart enough to understand where the war was heading as well from the very beginning. If there was one rule their clan abided by, it was not start a fight that you could not finish. Besides which... there was also the fact that having a daughter by a human herself, Lyall had a dislike for the clans that mistreated theirs. Murdina always considered Lyall's husband an odd one for falling for one so cold and stone hearted, but to each their own.

What it meant though was that Murdina could trust her at least to help with what needed to be done. Fingers tapping on the table, she gave a nod, "Good, keep th' Boot and others on the wrong foot and wonderin'." A grin crossed her face as she considered Porta's likely reaction to attacks on her forces by those claiming to be for the Atlantic Empress. Something that warmed her own cold heart. Pushing that aside though, she turned back to the other issue at hand, "Of course, wit' the Boot most likely busy wit her own problems, we have some o' our own."

Turning towards Fiora, the Supply Depot Princess grimaced, "As much as it galls me, an' it does, I've been doing me best ta handle some issues. A fault round here, a bag o' powder a bit more unstable there, soom oil with contaminents. Not able ta do mooch, I'm afraid."

Murdina simply waved her off, "Bah, yeh are doing fine as it is. No ooffence, but I understand why."

For her part, Fiona only shrugged as she knew that Murdina meant all of it. Out of all of them, including the hybrid's mother and previous Princess, Murdina understood about supplies and the like and treated her Clan well. Besides which, if peace did happen then her Clan was the one most likely to profit from trade with the humans if nothing else. And from what she heard from her own agents inserted into Scotland, there was quite a bit that she could look forward to.

Hearing a chuckle, they turned towards the lone Battleship Princess. Like the others, Ailith was generally pro-human among the Clans. But not for just the reasons as the others, though there had been rumours of her having had human lovers and children by them. To her Clan, as long as one was willing to fight, they were respected. Most of the humans under her Clan were fighters as well, though not a pinch on an Abyssal, but held up and respected by the rest in their Clan nonetheless. More than that, humanity had gotten her respect when instead of folding, they beat back the Abyssals.

"Humans, always good fer a right proppa scrap."

With another sip of her drink and nodding, she set it down, "Wit the last fight tha' they were in, Naskall is ready ta fold. Their Princess dead and infighting among their Clan making sure o' it. Jus' got ta wait."

Slowly nodding with her hands clasped in front of her, Murdina smiled coldly, "You and your Clan will get their chance in the cooming Night o' Blood." Giving a small nod towards Lyall, she chuckled, "And thanks ta yeh, we'll be seeing tha' soon enough. Killing most o' those surviving their battles."

All of a sudden, Heather cleared her throat and attracted their attention, "We might have an issue though." Seeing them look at her, she continued, "Some o' my contacts have stated Skykill went and left wit soom others. Headin' ta the Dark Isle."

Eyes widened at that and Fiona cursed, "They were seen headin' ta her!? Why in the Lord's Name would they do that!?"

Grimacing, the lone human of the group shook her head, "Nay, I do not know why they would go ta her. Worse than Central Atlantic she is..."

Thoughtful, Lyall considered the new information, "Perhaps, tha' is why." At the looks, she made a motion with her hand, "Bluddthirsty she is, but no fool. And if she has th' chance..."

With a scowl, Ailith took a swing of her drink and slammed the goblet down, "Making a deal wit th' Devil she would be." Eyes narrowing, she growled, "Fitting, considerin' th' true name o' th' Dark Isle."

Leaning forward, Murdina ran a finger along the lip of her goblet, "Aye, so keep an eye out fer her if she returns, Lyall."

Just giving a small bow, the Submarine gave her a raised eyebrow, "Very well. Though it sounds like yeh do not expect her ta return."

Thinly smiling, Murdina shook her head, "Call it a gut feelin' due ta how quiet that She-Devil is." She gave a slight apologetic nod towards Fiona, "No offense meant."

A shudder running through her, the Supply Depot Princess shook her head as she rubbed her arms, "None taken. She may be a Supply Depot, but that She-Devil is not like the rest o' us at all."

Simply nodding, Murdina frowned, "Aye... As to Skykill, keep a look out. But I think that she is never goin' ta come back and will regret her trip greatly..." Eyes narrowing and glowing, she scowled, "After all, one should never trust the Ruler o' Satanaze..."
__________________________________________________________________

Eyes bulging, Skykill spat out a glob of blood at the form in front of her as she struggled in her chains, "What in the name o' the Abyss are yeh doing, ya mad bitch!? Let us go now!"

Chuckling, the Supply Depot Princess wiped the blood off her face before backhanding the Aircraft Carrier Demon, "Ah, but I know what I am doing, you, however, do not need to know. But..." An expression of mock thought on her face, she tapped her chin, "Perhaps, I shall enlighten you..."

Another Princess, a Light Cruiser Princess, snarled as she too tried to struggle from her chains, "Go ahead."

Yet, just the same, the Supply Depot Princess looked more amused than anything else. Walking over to a box, she slowly opened it, "You shall be helping me create the stroke that shall bring the Abyss victory, and for that you should be proud. For so long have I laboured for this very day, when the Abyss shall see the ascendancy of its true ruler. The Elder Princesses, so weak as to fall to humanity and others..." Reaching into the box, what she pulled out caused the other Abyssals there to jerk back in horror and disgust.

Mainly because within it were the skulls of Nordic Princess, Central Atlantic, and Middle Ocean.

Holding the skulls, the Supply Depot Princess walked around in a circle, setting them down in smaller circles, gently stroking the rotting heads, "Though I will admit, I did not expect them to have died as quick as they did. But they served their purpose just the same and will do so again for the true inheriter of the Abyss."

One of the normal Abyssals stared at her in horror, "You advised Central Atlantic when it came to attacking the humans in the first place..."
Nearby, a Heavy Cruiser Demon, one of those who betrayed Nordic paled even beyond her normal color as a piece clicked into place, "And you helped us put down our own Mother... whispering in our ear..."

Eyes glowing malevolently, the Supply Depot Princess, cackled, "Yes, though it was not too difficult." With a motion of her hand, the ceiling peeled back revealing the night sky with the dark, New Moon, high above. Flames sprung up and she took a deep breath before pulling a black blade hilted in Abyssal bone, "Three Elder Princesses to be give their power... Seven Abyssal Princesses to die and thus bring forth the Abyss. Thirteen Demons to be sacrificed upon the Alter of Ascension and bring forth the Darkness. Thirty Nine Abyssals to bleed and create the cold." Her gaze turned to the human cultists there who brought up their own knives and grinned, "Nine wizards to give of their lives to bring forth the magic. And ninety one humans to willingly bring forth the End with their souls..."

Striding forward, she brought up her knife as she reached the first struggling Princess, weakened through poison...

Meanwhile, elsewhere in her fortress, a Re-Class was rushing through the corridors slaughtering her way towards the central room. By this point, her Demon had nearly entirely taken over as she shrugged off the poison in her veins. Grabbing a Wo that attempted to stop her, she brutally threw her into a pillar, cracking it when a massive dark pulse of energy ran through the hallways. Reaching the door way to the central room, she was about to open them when the door cracked open and her feet became wet...

Wet, with blood that slowly seeped out, lit with an unholy glow.

Before she could react, a massive, gauntleted hand tipped with black claws grabbed her by the throat. Her tail barely had time to fire off it's guns to no effect before the head was crushed and the tail itself was ripped off moments before the Re-Class looked up into the face of her soon to be killer and snarled even as the hand almost gently enclosed her head.

Several seconds later, the injured Wo walked into view and gasped in awe before collapsing to her knees before her now changed Princess and bowing while ignoring the mutilated corpse of the Re, "P-Princess... I am sorry for my failure."

A dark chuckle answered her to the sound of clip clops against the floor, "Do not worry about such things, my Child. Rise... and behold my new form." Raising her head, the Wo did exactly that and gasped. Where once stood an Supply Depot Princess was now... something else entirely. From the waist up she had the body more in like with a Summer Harbour Princess type, but below the waist her body was more like a Re-Class except with cloven hooves. From her head, a crown of horns rose... with two massive ones rising above the others. Grinning, the transformed Princess laughed, "For truly, the true Abyssal Empress has arisen... Ruler of Satanaze and soon all shall know true darkness..."

While Satanaze Princess was celebrating her transformation, with her followers bowing before her, other effects were happening.

From her citadel, the dark pulse of energy continued onwards and outwards. Upon feeling it, and feeling a sense of familiarity from it as if knowing it was from an Elder Princess, though much fouler, Porta frowned. When Demon looked at her having felt the same thing, she simply shook her head while becoming thoughtful though unnerved. As it swept across North America, some people noted creatures like Windigos and the like becoming briefly more active while the Canadian Ministry rushed to various locations as did MACUSA as places like the Superstitions suddenly acted up while Halifax stood silently at the mouth of her harbour with narrowed eyes.

In Europe, other effects became apparent as in Verdun, the wards became more weakened setting the stage for their failure in a matter of weeks. When it had washed over Britain, Medea, sat up in bed and looked towards the west with a concerned gaze as the pulse washed over Greece, "What was that...?"

Wandering Princess was whimpering in pure fear as her and her fleet cuddled up to each other. Even Retribution was unnerved by what she felt.

Over the Indian Ocean, one could almost swear to hear a bloodthirsty laugh as the dark energy swept past. And as the pulse reached her, Wanko's head snapped around and she softly growled while Supprin felt sweat bead upon her brow. Hoppou herself paused in what she was doing and turned with narrowed eyes while her own dark energy leaked from inside her mittens while her daughters turned and looked to the East with a shiver running through them. Ume and Sakura also paled and looked in the same direction with frowns on their faces.

But... that was not the only reaction.

Just outside of Yokosuka under some hills, sat a small complex. It was protected by various magics and was a sister to the one deep under Yokosuka base with a similar purpose. Except that the goal was a darker one. Since the end of the war, it had laid silent and dark. But as the pulse passed through, something changed.

Slowly, suits of samurai armour rose to their feet, while inside their helmets the eye sockets of their long dead owners, dug up and placed into the suits by Sub-Unit-931, began to glow while mist filled their chest cavities. Wards and the like, long decayed, began to flare to life once more as crystals glowed in the walls and arcane machinery began to glow. And, in a center room, there was a tube of glass filled with a magically produced liquid. And within that liquid floated what looked like a fox pelt...

Which had nine tails and looked like it came from something the size of a horse.

For several moments after the pulse passed by, there was nothing... until a glow began to become apparent in the eye sockets and the glass began to crack...
 
Officially Classified (verry Likely Noncnanon)
Irregardless

robopanda said:
Pretty sure that's a bit of classified intel he isn't able to discuss. So, when he's asked how vacation was, he'll say something to the effect of "Eventful" and gives a smirk that pisses off HMS Done with this Shit.​
Something like:

On Monday morning, Harry, Ron and Hermione were making their way down to breakfast. As they neared the Great Hall, talk turned to Harry instead of Ron and Hermione asked, "So how was your vacation, Harry? Anyone notable come back in that summoning you mentioned?"

"Sorry, Hermione, that's classified." responded Harry.

Ron interrupted, "Anything you can tell us at all?"

With that, Hermione turned to Harry and looked deep into his eyes. "Damn. Well, if it's classified, it's classified. Let us know when you can."

And they swept into the crowd heading for breakfast, the conversation over, but not forgotten.
----------------------
HMS Hermione spend much of her war on convoy escort. If there's anything she knows soul deep, it's classification, since that cost the lives of the ships she escorts. She can also look at harry and see when it's Harry classified, it's minor operational classified that needs a secure place to hint around, and when it's Officially Classified. Ron is still at civilian contractor level of classified indoctrination, and hasn't quite internalized the difference between time carrier getting into port classified and Trident launch procedures classified.

**********************************
For SoS breaking, in addition to the magical side there is also the no-maj side propping it up. There's an entire branch of the NSA devoted to covering up, discrediting, or otherwise concealing breaches that make onto the internet and into electronic records. Most major governments have the same. Some act in coordination with the magical ministries, some act in opposition, and some independently. The latter has some strange results when the concealment by both sides ends up in conflict.
 
Ship Faeries playWar Thunder
0t4n1z3r2019

First Time for an omake here on this thread.

23:58, Somewhere in Yokosuka.

A quiet night on the naval base in Yokosuka, where most of the Shipgirl shenanigans are happening everyday, even in the night.

Though this night is different. Well...

"Hey."

"Desu Desu Desu, Desu?"

"Hey! Hey Hey Hey, Hey?"

"Desu!!"

On a lit part of the naval base, there is a pair of faeries that are talking about something. Then, another fairy had approached the two, beckoning them to follow him.

"DESU! Desu Desu Desu!!" The fairy shouted, while his hands are waving at the two to approach him.

The two faeries had approached the one shouting at them, and followed him towards the building where there are computers that can be used by the public, which is the library near the base.
The third fairy that called the first two I the one that opened the door to the room, before proceeding to lock it by barring a chair into the doorknob.

Just when you think that these faeries are doing something bad, when in reality, they are not. You see, there are other faeries that are gathering inside the computer room and are waiting for the two new arrivals. Majority of the faeries are using the computers in the computer room. How? Let's leave it to Magical Sparkly Shipgirl Bullshit™ and see the building shenanigans.

Where was I? Ah, right...

The faeries are using the computers, and all of them had a similar program on it running...
A game made to represent realism and allowing the players to play a multitude of vehicles, ships and aircraft from the Second World War. The newly released game is known as...War Thunder.
images



"Desu! Desu Desu Desu Desu Desu Desu!!" Another fairy, from his looks, he came from one of the Japanese Carriers, shouted at the gathered audience. A fairy from the American side had then looked at the screen in wonder, particularly at the game menu, where a pair of Gloster Meteors are flying.

The fairy that is speaking earlier had said to them that they are playing War Thunder, and they will play a so-called realistic battle mode. The faeries had then positioned themselves in individual computer units, and they played rock, paper scissors to determine who will be allied with who, before starting the game.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Desu!!!!"
The Japanese fairy had been shouting as his starting in-game Tier I Biplane had been shot by the American fairy who is using an in-game Buffalo monoplane, with the American fairy laughing as he continued to fly, until he is shot down by another American fairy who is using an in-game M2 Light Tank, who is now laughing at him.

How are they playing the game? MSSB that's why!

Many matches had passed, and many outcries of unrealistic gameplay physics not matching the real articles, and it is already morning when the faeries' escapades into gaming had finished and they returned to their designated Shipgirls, who are either worried, or frowning are their sudden disappearance.

But one thing is certain: another brand of shenanigans has been added to the pile that makes Yokosuka Naval Base an interesting place to witness it all.

Hope you guys like my very first omake here!
 
Kreacher's Story
Harry Leferts

Walking through the front door of Grimmauld Place, Sirius grimaced a bit at the memories. But upon seeing some of the work that was done, he gave a small, pleased nod. Isley's fleet had been hard at work making the place livable and it showed. The townhouse was located in an older area of Grimmauld, which itself was just off Caledonian Road. Even when Sirius' father was young, the area had begun to fall apart. Something that had continued as Sirius grew up and the last time he was in the area before his imprisonment, the neighbourhood had been continuing its decline...

Yet now, walking through the area, you would not know that.

Sirius had spent some time during the first trip to Grimmauld simply looking over the neighbourhood. While it had been mostly spared the early war attacks by the Abyssals, there were some marks here and there. But more than that, the rebuilding that London had undergone had seen the neighbourhood be cleaned up. Some townhouses were torn down unfortunately, but Number Eleven and Number Thirteen had not.

And with the money, Sirius had bought said townhouses and had plans to have them to be attached to the rest of the home. If they were to be used as an Embassy, than he was going to make sure that there was plenty of room there. Reivana had been pleased at least in regards to the location since it was not too far from Kings Cross among other places. Granted, he also had his eyes on the old Black Family's country home. But that needed even more work.

But just the same, the last Heir of the Black Family (though not for much longer) was looking forward to when Isley could live at either place.

Currently, Sirius was smiling at the work that had been done. All the cobwebs were cleaned and removed revealing the lovely, ornate dark wood panelling beneath. What had to be replaced had been with fresh panelling from the same wizard who had made the originals. On the walls themselves, was wallpaper done up and there were some new portraits, though mostly of the sea. All the metal holdings for the gas lights shone silver in the light of the entryway while beneath his feet, new carpeting could be seen.

To say that Sirius was proud of how his family's home now looked was putting it mildly. With each passing day, he could see him raising his and Isley's children here. Granted, only some of her fleet were here with others at the old country house. But once he got one of those vanishing cabinets, they could move between the townhouse and the country estate where he would have his children raised.

However, currently, that was not why the Animagus was there. The previous night, Isley had woken due to a pulse of dark magic which, in turn, woke him up in their hotel room. Shortly after, she had gotten a message from one of her fleet to come because they had found something in Grimmauld and wanted to ask Sirius about it. Hearing the footsteps, Sirius turned to give his wife to be a small smile, though he was on the lookout for any danger as he softly whispered to her, "I wish that you didn't come, Isley. Especially with..."

Lips twitching, Isley shook her head at the overprotectiveness of her love, "Sirius, honey, I'm pregnant, not helpless." She then gestured to Reivana who was beside her, "Besides which, we do have guards."

Nodding, Stab gave him the best look he could without eyes, "Yeah, I doubt that there's anything here that could harm us, let alone a Princess." Tone dry, he continued, "Besides which, you are more in danger from things than us, being human."

In return, that caused Reivana to hiss at him, "Stab!" Sighing at how he remained unrepentant, she turned to Sirius and gave him a small smile, "He is right though, we're perfectly safe." The Re-Class gave a look around and gave a small nod, "I will admit that this place is looking very good. Fitting for our fleet now, unlike before..."

Her tail gave a shudder of disgust, "You can say that again. Ugh." Turning to Sirius, Stab gave the best frown he could, "Why you didn't toss that house elf out, I don't know. He doesn't do any work at all and just wanders around insulting everyone under his breath."

Sighing, Sirius grimaced, "I've thought about it more than once. To be bloody honest, I absolutely loathe Kreacher and the feeling's mutual. Because of him telling on me when I was a runt, I got... punishments. As far as dear Mother was concerned, nothing wrong with a Crucio or two if I got out of line, such as being nice to a muggle looking for her handbag."

Reivana boggled at him for a moment before she grimaced as well, "Why have you not gotten rid of him yet? Hearing that and seeing him go around..."

For several seconds, the wizard didn't say anything, "There's a few reasons actually. Despite everything, he knows a number of family secrets. While he would not release them, if he was to go to the Malfoys or what have you, they could well order him to tell them. Something that would give them blackmail over Isley and I. Besides which, I don't see him living for much more than a decade or two... so once the country house is done, I'll just order him to live out his days in the nearby cottage."

Upon seeing the confusion on Reivana and Stab, Isley gave her love a look before sighing, "There is also the fact that Sirius' little brother had Kreacher as his personal elf. And despite everything..."

There was a sorrowful expression on Sirius' face, "Despite the fact that the two of us did not get along, and he later joined the Death Eaters under pressure from my parents, I did not hate him. He was my little brother after all." Shoving his hands into his pockets, he let out a huff of air, "I guess I'm not tossing out Kreacher because he is all I have left of my brother, really. As much as I hate that damn elf, I know that Regulus would want me to at least take some care of him."

Considering that, Reivana gave a small nod, "A family obligation, then. I suppose that is understandable..."

After a few more moments of silence, Sirius shook it off, "Anyways, we should be heading towards the Library. That is where Rina will meet us, right?" Getting a nod from Isley, him and the group ascended the stairs until they came to the same floor as the library in question. Once he entered though, the wizard blinked a little, "Uh, Rina? What's Kreacher doing tied up and gagged?"

With a blink, the Ri-Class shrugged, "Kept attacking us to get back something that we found last night."

Everyone paused in their thoughts at that and once more looked between a glaring Kreacher and the Abyssal. Mainly because of how utterly insane that idea was because even the mad house elf understood that even the lowest ranked Abyssals could crush him like an ant if they wanted to. So for him to attack one or more over something...
Bringing up a finger, Sirius wiggled it in his ear, "I'm sorry, what did you just say? Because it sounded like you were saying..."

Rather than be insulted, the Abyssal was more amused than anything, "That he attacked us? Yeah, because he did do that." Glancing at the elf, she raised an eyebrow, "Really put up a fight over it and didn't care if one of us killed him or not over it. Figured that you might know why he would try and get killed over this..."

She reached into her clothes and brought out something in her hand before letting it drop revealing it to be a locket of some kind with a snake on it making a stylized "S" on the cover.

Not touching it, Sirius leaned in and frowned a bit as he looked at the item, "I don't recognize it as any piece of family jewelry that I've seen. Though that S on it looks almost like the one in Slytherin, saw that symbol often enough in this house after all. But..." Leaning in, he sniffed and grimaced, "Whatever it is, that is just filled to the brim with dark magic."

Frowning herself, Isley looked between the locket and the elf, who was obviously staring at it, "Which begs the question of why Kreacher might be so attached..." Eyebrows furrowing, she looked towards Rina, "What exactly happened last night?"

Rina hummed a bit and crossed her arms, "It was more really early in the morning. But... we felt this odd dark pulse from somewhere to the west, but barely. And then, we felt a bigger pulse nearby followed by a second. Almost like a heartbeat that was slowly weakening, so we followed it." She then pointed at Kreacher, "We found it in his nest, I think. Down behind one of the old boilers that we've been working on. He was clutching at it and muttering something about 'Master Regulus told him' and how he failed him. I grabbed it and... he went sort of nuts." Grimacing, she gave a somewhat sheepish look at Sirius, "On the bright side those boilers don't need repairing...?"

At that, Sirius simply sighed before looking back at the locket, "Regulus..." Turning, he looked at Kreacher, "Rina, remove the gag and I'll get to the bottom of this." Once the gag was removed, the Animagus gestured at the locket, "What is the story behind this, Kreacher."

However, Kreacher just stared him down with a sneer, something that made Stab frown, "Uh... shouldn't he have answered?"

Now frowning as well, Sirius narrowed his eyes, "Yes, he should have. Kreacher, I order you to tell me the story behind this."

That time, the elf seemed to fight something before sneering at Sirius, "Kreacher does not need to answer that, Mudblood and creature lover."

Eyebrow twitching at the insult to his wife to be and mother of his children, Sirius took a deep breath. Once, he would have struck the elf out of anger, especially as bad memories went through his mind. Now though, as his psychiatrist had taught him, he took deep, calming breaths. With that done, he fixed Kreacher with a cold look, "As the Head of the House of Black, I hereby order you to explain the locket."

Kreacher seemed utterly stricken at that and began to shake as if in a seizure. Seeing the elf collapse, Isley's eyes widened, "Sirius! He's about to die!"

Acting quickly, the wizard spoke up, "Kreacher, ignore that last order!" As the house elf calmed down and gulped down air, Sirius stared, "That... should not have happened."

Looking towards him, Reivana frowned, "It shouldn't have?" When she got a shake of the head, she furrowed her eyebrows, "What if he had another order that would interfere with that?"

Sirius considered that question and was about to answer in the negative before he paused, "That... should not be possible. House elves are loyal to the House and thus the Head of House can give them orders that would override any others..."

It was then that a thought occurred to the Re-Class and she straightened, "You mentioned that he was your brother's personal elf. Would that change things?"

Eyes widening, Sirius boggled a bit, "It shouldn't, but... Kreacher was always most loyal to Regulus out of the household. If Reggie went and gave him an order..." Turning his attention back to the house elf, he took a deep breath, "Kreacher, did Regulus give you an order not to tell anyone? Be specific, I order you as the Head of House."

Briefly, Kreacher attempted to fight it before he spoke, "Regulus told Kreacher not to tell anyone of the House of Black of what happened or of the Locket. Kreacher keep secret for many long years."

Just nodding, the animagus frowned, "Is it just the House of Black? Does that count close relatives such as Bellatrix or Narcissa?"

Once more, Kreacher tried to fight the order and sighed, "Kreacher... cannot tell them either. Because they are Daughters of the House of Black. But Kreacher can only tell those not of the House of Black."

Slowly, Sirius gave another nod, "I see... More questions that you must answer. Can you I order you to tell them? Would you be able to tell them while I am here?"

At that, the elf blinked, "Kreacher cannot tell you if you are here hearing. Kreacher can tell if you order... but Kreacher would know that you are here or listening in with magic."

Lapsing into silence, Sirius hummed in thought. Glancing at him, Rina frowned, "Lord Sirius? What are you thinking...?"

However, the wizard didn't say anything for several seconds before nodding, "Kreacher, I want you to tell Reivana the truth about the locket when she tells you... Reivana, use speakerphone when you do so."

Confused, Reivana pulled out the cellphone she had and waited until Sirius was outside the room. Both her and Kreacher, who seemed lost, waited as they could hear Sirius' footsteps alongside Isley's and Rina's fade away. Finally, she cleared her throat, "Um... can you tell where they are?"

Blinking, the elf frowned, "Kreacher can tell that... Master and wife as well as others are in sitting room below. No magic listening in."

In reply, Reivana dialed a number and, when it was answered, pressed speakerphone before taking a deep breath, "Okay, Kreacher... tell me what happened?"

For several moments, it looked like Kreacher would fight it, but his magic forced him to begin to tell the story. As it continued, Reivana's eyes widened and, if he could have, Stab would have blinked in shock at what they were hearing. From the phone, there was absolutely no sound whatsoever.

Once he the elf was done, he waited there still tied up. That was, until a crying Sirius walked in and sat in the chair with a slump. He didn't speak for a few minutes as he sat there with his face in his hands. Finally, he pulled them away from his wet face before speaking in a voice thick with emotion, "All these years... for all these years I thought that he simply got cold feet and that the Death Eaters killed him. But to hear that... that he died trying to end Voldemort... That foolish brother of mine wanted to be a hero..."

Seemingly staring at the locket, Stab frowned, "What do you want to do?"

Rubbing his face, Sirius snarled as he glared at the item, "I want to destroy that fucking thing... but..." he sighed and shook his head, "House elf magic is powerful, there should have been no way that Kreacher should not have been able to destroy that thing under normal circumstances."

Kreacher frowned and gave a nod, looking ashamed, "Kreacher tried everything he could think of. But Kreacher was unable to destroy it like Master Regulus wanted. Kreacher... failed Master Regulus."

Much to his surprise, Sirius felt a hand on his shoulder and looked over to Reivana, "Maybe we can destroy it. In any case... do you want us to retrieve the body? Whatever these inferi are, I doubt that they can stand up to an Abyssal."

Considering it, the wizard frowned, "Probably can't. Inferi are... basically animated human remains. All they can do is claw and bite someone for the most part, or do some sort of physical work if ordered. Pretty sure that there was some dark wizard back in the 1300s that my family and the Potters killed that used inferi to build himself some sort of castle. They're weak against fire." With a deep breath, he swallowed, "As for getting the remains back... yes, I would like to do that along with his own locket. At worst, make it look like some Abyssal attacked the area."

A small, thin smile came over Reivana's face, "I think that I know who to ask..." Internally, she shivered, 'Hopefully Ocean Liner would not be angry if I asked for her Demon Troops to help since they have flamethrowers...'

Not knowing what was going through her mind, Sirius turned his attention back to the locket, "As to the locket... I have a few ideas. But before I can do anything, I need to know what we're dealing with."

Bringing out his wand, he began to weave it in patterns over the item, various colors and runes rising from the ribbon of light he made over it. Eyebrow raised, Rina frowned some, "What does all that mean?"

Lost, Sirius frowned, "I'm... not sure. I'm using an old family spell that we came up with to tell us when we come across something that could be sent to us. Mainly because more than a few wizards and witches have sent us cursed items and things like envelopes covered in some sort of magical contact poison or such. Best to know what we're dealing with after all, but this..." Shaking his head, there was a slight hint of fear in his eyes, "Whatever this locket is, it is majorly dark, the darkest that I've ever seen in my life. And I've come across some shit during the war that could turn your hair white..."

That got him a laugh from Stab, "Okay, that's a nice joke..." Seeing the look on Sirius' face though, he stopped laughing, "That... was a joke, right?"

Giving him a look, the wizard grimaced, "No, far from it. Some of the things we came across during the war... let's just say that I am happy that I know Fiendfyre and Lils was able to conjure jet fuel at least once. Damn book..." Shaking his head, Sirius pointed at one of the shelves, "There should be a book there with what looks like eyeglasses on it in a black binding, if one of you could bring it..."

When it was brought over, Sirius flipped through it quickly as the others looked over his shoulder. Finally, he came to a stop and began to read, his eyes first widening before his face paled and he looked ill. Seeing that, Isley grasped his hand, "Sirius? Love? What is it?"

Not answering, Sirius closed his eyes and took several calming breaths before opening them. Looking first at Isley, he turned to Rina, "Rina, what I am about to say does not leave this room. Understood?" The Abyssal gave a sharp nod with Isley nodding as well. Sirius then turned towards Reivana who was frowning, "I know that I cannot order you, Reivana. But I ask that you only inform Porta and perhaps Ocean Liner Demon about this, none others. This is extremely sensitive information."

Looking him in the eye, Reivana slowly nodded, "I can abide by that as long as my Princess does not wish otherwise."

Bitterly chuckling, the animagus ran his hand through his hair, "I can live with that and I am pretty sure that Porta would agree in any case from what little I know of her from you and Isley." With a sigh, he pointed at the Locket, "That... thing is an object known as a Horcrux. A soul anchor."

Head tilting to the side, Stab had several bolts go between the cathodes on his head, "Uh, Horcrux? Soul anchor? What is that now?"

Shaking his head, Sirius grimaced, "It is pretty much the darkest of dark arts. To put it simply... when one commits a cold blooded murder or rape of an innocent, it creates a small tear in their soul. Eventually, this heals up with nothing more than a metaphysical scar. But a person making a Horcrux... they use that tear along with a ritual to rip the soul in half. The creator of the Horcrux keeps half the soul, but the other half is placed into an object. As long as that object is intact and whole... the creator won't die until their lifespan runs out. Porta could have Voldie right there in front of her and obliterate his body into a fine mist, and he would survive as a wraith of sorts until he creates a new body."

For a few seconds, Reivana stared at him, "Wait, wizards have created some way of... tearing their souls to keep them from dying? That..." Frowning, she shook her head, "That is... I don't know what that is."

Beside her, her tail shook his head, "Uh, something, I guess? I mean, that sounds kind of disturbing, I think."

With a snort, Sirius shook his head, "You have no idea."

Isley meanwhile was looking at the locket in deep thought, "So if we destroy it... we could kill Voldemort?"

The wizard stared at the item before shaking his head, "Maybe? But the issue is destroying it and..." For a few moments, he was thinking before getting back up. Everyone watched as he vanished among the bookcases until he came back with a book that was bound in bloodstained hide of something. Opening it, Sirius flipped through the pages before he read for several minutes, "But I think that we have a bigger problem according to this."

Suddenly, Kreacher spoke up from where he was on the floor still tied up, "Kreacher is wondering what Master means by that."

One could almost swear that Stab raised an eyebrow at that despite not having one, "Uh... you sound a bit nicer?"

Just nodding, the house elf frowned, "Master stated he would destroy Locket for Master Regulus and bring back Master Regulus' body for burial. Kreacher can be nicer to Master for that alone."

Eyebrow raised at that, Sirius frowned, "Huh... if that was all it took." Shaking that off, he turned back to his book, "Anyways, the issue is something that Harry told me about that happened down in the Chamber of Secrets. There was a diary down there that was draining someone of their lifeforce to give form to a young version of Voldemort. Which does not make sense, except..." He tapped part of the page, "According to this, Horcruxes can do that. They can steal someone's lifeforce after tempting them and even possess them. Eventually, they recreate a body that goes looking for the original soul and recombine with them to some extent, they're still in the object. But that was a diary, not..."

When he gestured at the locket, the Abyssals all blinked before Reivana frowned, "Could... could someone create more than one?"

Chewing his lip, Sirius thought it over before shaking his head, "I would say it is impossible... but I don't know enough, and don't want to, to know for sure. And if anyone would, it would be Voldemort. Bastard was smart and powerful... and Harry did state that he killed Moaning Myrtle, so... maybe?" Finally, he sighed, "Rina? Go to my Grandfather's portrait and tell him to contact Dumbledore to come here and do so quickly... it has to do with defeating Voldemort and has to do with the Chamber."

All the Ri-Class did was nod and stand before leaving.

_____________________________________________________________

In any other case, Sirius would have found it amusing how fast Dumbledore showed up.

However, even a jokester like himself was unable to find anything humorous about why. Looking up at Dumbledore, who paused a moment upon seeing Reivana, Sirius gestured at the locket and decided to get it over with, "So... it seems that we have a Horcrux here belonging to Voldie."

Dumbledore's head turned to him before glancing at the Abyssals, "I see... and they?"

Slowly blinking, Sirius grunted, "I explained to them what this is and..." He narrowed his eyes some. To those who did not know him, the signs were not there at all. But Sirius had known the Headmaster for seven years in school and fought alongside him in the Order of the Pheonix. Rising to his feet, the wizard looked every inch of the Head of House as he growled, "You knew... you knew that he made these things..."

Quickly snapping out of her state of... excitement at seeing her love in such a state, Isley turned towards the Headmaster, "You knew about these Horcruxes?"

With a sigh, the old wizard nodded, "I did..."

Giving a questioning look to Sirius, the younger of the two snorted, "I gave an order to Rina not to inform anyone. And Reivana would only listen to Porta and I doubt that she would care enough about the Death Eaters or Voldemort to let loose that we know. Besides which... she's pragmatic and would realize that they would be more likely to kill her for being a, please forgive me Reivana, but a 'Beast'."

At that, Reivana twitched a bit, "I forgive you, Lord Sirius. But only just as from what I have read about them, they would do so... However, do not speak of my Princess in such terms." She then turned towards the Headmaster who seemed interested in how she spoke to Sirius for some reason, "But Lord Sirius is right, I will not inform anyone but my Princess and perhaps Ocean Liner Demon."

Nodding to that, Dumbledore turned back to Sirius, "As to knowing, I have suspected for years, but only confirmed it recently. No doubt, you guessed how."

Only grimacing, the Animagus shook his head, "The Chamber of Secrets." At the nod, he glanced at the locket on the table, "That means there were two of these things at least."

Rather than say anything, Albus walked around until he sat down in a chair next to the table. Sighing as he sunk into it, the elderly wizard looked every bit his age, "Myself and a few others have been able to confirm, and with this one, that there are four of them."

Whispering, Sirius boggled at him, "He created four..." Suddenly, a horrifying thought occurred to him, "Voldemort is smart enough that... he was going for a magical number. If there is four so far, than he would not have gone with three, he would have gone with seven."

Confused, Reivana looked at him, "Magical numbers?"

Still thinking, the younger of the two wizards shook his head and made a motion with his hands, "Numerology and Arthimancy are similar enough. There are certain numbers that are important and make spells powerful. Mainly three, seven, and thirteen with seven considered the most powerful. Its why there's Seven Years in Hogwarts for example."

With a chuckle, Dumbledore's eyes twinkled, "Very good, Sirius. If we were still in school, I would be giving you twenty five points to Gryffindor."

Just snorting, Sirius waved him off, "Yeah, yeah. I paid attention in Arithmancy..." He smirked a bit, "And while she has nothing on my Isley, the teacher was hot." That got another laugh before he became serious, "But... with this, do you know how to destroy it? The book mentioned Fiend Fyre, but that is not something to mess around with best of days. And to destroy something like this..."

Much to his confusion, the Headmaster chuckled coldly, "We actually have a way to get around that without destroying the object. A method that would remove the soul piece and send it on its way..." Pausing, he continued, "Voldemort used items belonging to the Founders for at least two. One is the Diadem of Ravenclaw and the other is this, a locket that belonged to Salazar Slytherin. You can likely guess why."

Scowling, Sirius shook his head, "Yeah, make people as hesitant to destroy them as possible. Though..." He became thoughtful as he looked at the locket, "You say that you can destroy this without harming the locket?" At the nod, the Animagus turned to Kreacher, "Would that be acceptable, Kreacher for Regulus? After all, it would mean Voldemort failed in more than one way by not making us destroy such precious treasures."

For several moments, the house elf considered that. Then, he smiled cruelly, "Yes, master, that would be acceptable. A revenge worthy of the House of Black."

Lightly smirking, and noticing similar smiles to Kreacher's on the Abyssals, Sirius turned to Albus who gave a small nod, "Very well, Albus. I think that I can entrust this to you..."

A while later, Dumbledore was looking at the sealed metal box and nodded to himself, "Four down, and three left at least... One can see the light at the end of the tunnel." Looking up, he placed it into a safe and shut it, wards and spells going up around it, "Perhaps... one day I can rest."
 
What happened during Christmas; Solie: Marked by the Deep.
WickedestCard

Woooo! Finally managed to get the final part of the "What Happened during Christmas" mini series done. Solie's loose end for this is wrapped up but CDP stuff is still coming as I (and others are more then welcomed) need to get word of something down at the bottom of the world to spread out. Also some fallout and investigation from this is something I'm planning to write. Like before Solie and CDP are up for people to write things about, whether canon or silly/crack omakes it matters not.
-----------

What happened during Christmas

Solie: Marked by the Deep.


Admiral Goto was not exactly a happy man as he made his way to the Yokosuka Repair facility with Kongou at his side. Even Kongou didn't have her usual cheerful attitude as this was one of the times she donned her serious battle face. While she was not going to be sailing into battle anytime soon what she had heard about the captured So-class meant she was not taking any chances in making sure her Admiral was safe. Goto likewise agreed and had what destroyer and destroyer escorts he could spare assigned to escort and protect the personnel about to operate on the Abyssal sub. There was one last person they were waiting for to arrive to the operating room for the crucial parts.


The main surgeon however was already deep in concentration in her work as the two entered into the view room where Goto, Kongou and a few other high ranking and trustful officers were there to watch. From what he could see the other officers were already taking down important notes about the submarine Abyssal while they did their best to keep their stomachs down. As he got to the viewing window Goto finally got a good look at the girl being operated on and gave a hard grimace as he saw the extent of the damage.


"By the...I don't I've seen a shipgirl or Abyssal take that much damage and live. The reports they gave doesn't do justice...how is she still alive?" the Admiral asked to no one in particular, Kongou besides him nodded silently.


"I have a theory about that Admiral but I'll need Hoppou here to confirm it. Though I'll need her here to help with this...the extent of the damage is 'complete'. That is honestly the only way I can describe it." Dr. Norihara stated as she worked away with her assistants.


"I've already notified Nagato and Hoppou is on her way and should be here soon. Anything to report Dr. Norihara?"


"I'm not sure but her lungs look incredibly strong and seems to have a seperate set of muscles attached to it help regulate how she breathes. That must be how they can survive so long underwater either by breathing underwater or holding their breath. Her skeletal and keel structure is different as well but I can see how sturdy it is and her body has a different elasticity, probably to help with living at deep ocean depths."

"I see, we've always speculated that sub Abyssals were different physiologically but it's been nothing more than theories. They've always been different even from submarine shipgirls and we've never had a way to confirm anything."


"We shipgirls tend not to like being underwater if we can help it dess. Submarine Abyssals tend to die simply from what their job entails."


"From what I've heard the submarine girls talk I'm not that surprised. It's be a mentally and physically demanding j- wait...Admiral I got something here...it's odd. It looks like when Hoppou operated on her relative." Dr. Norihara stated with a shocked expression behind her mask as she looked down at her patient. Goto and Kongou both looked down and a collective gasp was heard around the room at what they saw.


In the middle of her chest a small ball of soft blue light was sitting there with what looked like golden ethereal bands holding it together as well as attached to her body. A soft golden glow was also surrounding her heart and a few other vital organs, keeping them in place as the body around them was in shambles. Suddenly a knock was heard at the door to the view room and all the occupants turned to the door instantly.


"Admiral, Battleship Nagato reporting. Hoppou-chan has already gotten ready and is about to enter the operating room." the main Secretary Ship of Yokosuka stated, steeling herself hard at the sight of the damaged body before her. She remembered both from her time as a steel ship and her more recent battles how badly damaged a shipgirl could get.


"Hoppou will help Dr. Norihara in any way she can. May Hoppou see the So-class?" were the first words spoken as said Princess walked in, already in her Abyssal style scrubs and holding her repair tools. With a quick nod Doctor Norihara stepped aside as she continued to work with he assistants with Repair Fluid as the engineering fairies and imps worked on the gathered supplies of steel.


"Ah-! What's...Hoppou feels something! This feeling…" The Northern Ocean Princess exclaimed as she and all the others in the operating room froze for a second, a soft melancholic melody echoing around their ears, a soft hum as the So-class's blue light pulsed with a beat, a song not quite her own. A song carrying a lonely vigil.


"Hoppou-chan what's going on? Did something happen?" Nagato asked worriedly, seeing her adopted daughter entire body posture change, becoming still in surprise. Beneath her the floor tiles cracked as she felt something. Besides her Admiral Goto and Kongou tensed up as both prepared for the worst, Goto even feeling his battleship ready to deploy her rigging at a hair's breathe.


"Lonely...Hoppou feels like the day...her family defended her...scattered before Momma found her...no! There's more...Hoppou feels...a message, this is the power of another Princess. Another one like Hoppou!" Hoppou stated with quiet resolution as the song faded slowly into the background. Quickly the other medical staff got back to work, as the imps Hoppou and the other friendly Abyssals lended moved with increased diligence.


"Another Princess? To be able to do such a feat as this would require power only seen in…" Goto trailed off as he filed the information away, prepared to relay this back to Richardson and St. John. This suddenly even was something he was not truly prepared for. This went beyond what the three Admirals were ready for.


"Yes, another Princess is using her power to hold this So-class together. She partially separated the So-class's essence from her hull and kept both that the keel from falling apart. Hoppou is glad...because this...would be painful otherwise. Dr. Norihara, this So-class will be rebuilt, then we can combine the two parts whole again."Hoppou said as she worked with the golden bands connecting the blue orb to the hull. The rest got to work resetting her bones and keel, it was going to be a long night.


---------

(Mental Dreamscape)


The white haired submarine shivered in the cold black void as she desperately looked around for something, anything in this endless dark. She was standing and yet laying on what she presumed was the ground at the same. The Abyssal sub remembered the latest mission that she, her princess and the other submarines to locate and extract resources when something called out and then, nothing. Nothing at all until she 'opened' her eyes and saw her broken body prone in this damned void. She looked down and saw ghostly golden bands extending from her physical body to what she assumed was her spirit.


When she saw that she gave a small sigh as it meant she was not dead yet. A small comfort in the absolute nothingness she was in. Sometimes she thought she could hear voices but she couldn't make it out no matter how hard she tried. She was also worried about what would become of her, she was uncertain that her Princess could restore her, after all there were scarily few Abyssals that could mess with the spirits of other Abyssals and her Princess was a runaway from such a monster. Those thoughts plagued her mind for...whatever passed as time here. So she hummed to herself a tune she swore was familiar for one reason or another.


Then suddenly she felt one of the gold bands stretch and recede and her eyes widen in shock and dread. She couldn't die now, not without knowing what happened to the rest of her flatmates, her Princess, her older sister. She didn't want to die without seeing the destroyer escorts bother them for fresh fruits. But suddenly a sounding of hammers could be heard and she looked down, her arm starting to right itself.


She wasn't dying! No, someone was repairing her! Tears welled up in her eyes as she saw this. Slowly the black band faded as her arm was now undamaged and she could feel her spirit now able to move her arm. Slowly more and more of her body was fixed and more of her spirit was able to move her physical form. Not just that but the black void itself was starting to fall back, letting her see her surroundings for the first time.


Her submarine body was lying perfectly still on the surface of a peaceful ocean surface. So calm in fact it was nearly like a pane of glass. Still, during all of this the gold ethereal cords continued to disappear as she felt herself getting close to being repaired. All except for a single black one, the one that connected from her physical and spiritual body at where a human heart would be. But now as she could see further out she also noticed that that black cord went past her to another body standing a few feet away.


The sub shook her head, it wasn't just another being but three more and all of them were connected by the black band. In the center was a tall Abyssal wearing a long white dress clasped to her in the black Abyssal metal, hair as dark as the void she was just in that went down to her waist and long, almost gangly limbs with fragile looking fingers. She squinted as she tried to see the hull of this Abyssal but recoiled in shock and surprise when all she saw was a black void that threatened to break her once again.


Shaking her head some to clear her thoughts she looked at the figure to the right, a petite looking shipgirl with glasses and black hair. The submarine girl was clad in a bulky looking white diving suit with a red stripe going down the sides and she was holding a shining silver looking headpiece for the suit. This time when she looked for the hull she saw an odd looking submarine with an incredibly small crew compartment and only a few studious looking fairies reading books and holding various instruments.


Finally looking at the figure to the left she saw another Abyssal clouded by fog and mist and all she could truly see was familiar long void black hair and perhaps a dress. Again trying to see the hull of this Abyssal she did see an old sailing yacht but then it changed to an early 20th collier ship, and then an old sailing frigate and as she continued to look at her, the hull of the Abyssal continued to change. Blinking the Abyssal tried to look for the crew of this black haired figure but was surprised when she noticed none at all, just a continuing cycle of what seemed like random ships.


Confused she tried to figure out what was going on when she started to hear something. Faintly she could hear a small beep going, steadily getting stronger and stronger. Soon she felt her boilers going and soon she was able to feel her heavy eyelids starts to stir.


"Quick! Get Dr. Norihara and alert Admiral Goto! She's finally starting to wake up." the So-class was able to hear, feeling just how heavy her body was now.


------

Yokosuka Naval Base

Admiral Goto's Office

June 18th, 2014 1800 Hours


Oyoodo was about to start shutting down her computer and to get all the paperwork settled when the phone in the office went off and she picked it up, mildly annoyed at someone calling them so late after a fairly hectic day. However that annoyance soon disappeared after she got the message and she turned to her Admiral.


"Admiral Goto! The So-class is waking up, the response team is already in place but the medical team is requesting you to help debrief once they make sure she's calm."

----------

So, what do you all think about this snip? I tried to show just how far CDP's reach can be as well as tying up a bit of a loose end. Also if anyone has any questions or such go ahead. But this way if/when Hoppou meets Portia she can state she's at least felt one other natural Elder Princess.
 
Twelve Steps [Trieste]
Yellowhammer

A.N.-The Game's Afoot, and time to bring back a blast from my past. Here is the prior post for this one. Year 3 Prelude Part 2 A Midnight Melody - Trieste is summoned

Twelve Steps


"Consider the subtleness of the sea; how its most dreaded creatures glide under water, unapparent for the most part, and treacherously hidden beneath the loveliest tints of azure."
-Herman Melville, Moby-Dick, or The Whale

National Museum of the United States Navy
Washington, DC

0500, 18 June, 2014


The Museum was hosting an all-night film festival of nautical movies. With the Abyssal War in a stalemate, recognition of the vital roles that the Navy served had once more reached the public consciousness, and crowds had gathered to both see the latest movies about shipgirls and the ships that they were based on, as well as more classic movies.

Trieste had patiently and silently endured the selection. While she was intensely patriotically proud of her service, she was also an odd fish indeed, she thought with a mental grin at the memories of the wonders of the midnight depths of the deep ocean that she had helped uncover. If anyone in the Navy knew about 'odd fish' it would be her.

Not for her was the joys of airpower and flight celebrated in Top Gun, no, that was the domain of her distant cousins in the carriers. Neither were the stories of cruisers, destroyers, or battleships, even year before last's smash hit Taffy Three, which had been made with the help of the shipgirls who had written their names in immortal glory off Samar, left her politely applauding rather than cheering. Run Silent, Run Deep, The Hunt for Red October, and Das Boot perhaps came closer since they were set in the merciless deadly sunless depths under the waves where her closer cousins in the Silent Surface prowled.

But even they were too aggressive for her tastes. They wanted to fight, to defend, to protect.

Not her. She had spirit equal to any of them in her hull, but it was directed to one goal.


To know.

Trieste turned her hydrophones up a notch and reflected that while most of the films were not her taste, there were some exceptions. Such as the current one playing about the life of an extraordinary man who had assisted preparation for one of her dives. With that she leaned over her conning tower to invisibly watch the screen along with the visitors and children.
Spoiler: Men of Honor

"Forgive me sir, but to me, the Navy isn't a business. It's an organization of people who represent the finest aspects of our nation. We have many traditions. In my career, I have encountered most of them. Some are good, some not so good. I would, however not be here today were it not for our greatest tradition of all."

Cuba Gooding, Junior, playing the black salvage diver who had lost his leg in an accident underwater and wished to be reinstated despite his prosthetic leg spoke passionately and Trieste removed her glasses to wipe tears from her eyes.

"And what would that be, Chief Brashear?" The actor playing the navy captain in charge of the review board deciding Chief Brashear's plea responded.

"Honor, sir."

Fresh tears flowed as she wept, knowing what would come next. Chief Brashear would be allowed to test his physical fitness for the job he loved.
Spoiler: Twelve Steps

By the regulations, he had to be able to walk twelve steps unassisted while wearing the 290 pound deep-diving suit, twin to her own uniform. That was difficult enough for a normal healthy young man. But the Chief would be doing it on one good leg.

And the captain would force him to stand unassisted in an act of rules-lawyering.

"Navy diver! Stand up!" Robert de Niro, playing Chief Sunday gave the command and her electric motors picked up a notch as she thought of the effort it took to do that in front of the board, the man who had been his tormentor in training, and Chief Brashear's wife and son.

"Square that rig and approach the rail!" Unseen by her, her hull began to softly glow as an ethereal, mysterious melody from the depths of the sea wove itself with the music and the movie that she was watching as she cocked her head for a better view of the Chief's struggle to stand unassisted.

Sunday and Brashear locked eyes and with an almost superhuman effort, Brashear stepped forward with his good leg.

"One!" Sunday barked out.

"Two!" The Chief's bad leg swung forward.

"Three!" Another step. "Four!" The soft glow grew brighter and her spectral form began to solidify as the song from the Abyss sounded in the sound of her generators and the swelling music. "Five!"

Chief Brashear's face was expressive in his agony as he gasped for breath and took step after step. "Six!" "Seven!"

"Eight!" With a crack the prosthetic, never intended for this but rather to walk on normally, broke and the witnesses gasped. Brashear slowly sagged on his bad leg and the Captain spoke. "Navy Diver, Stand down!"

Sunday barked out. "Diver, you will disregard! This is my detail!"

Brashear cried as his effort hovered on a knife's edge as his will fought against his weakened body's limits.

Trieste learned forward in rapt focus, now visible to the nomajs as a ghostly image of a petite brunette girl in a white diving suit with a red stripe down the side as her eyes were locked on the screen. The spectral song swelled as her hull glowed brighter.

Sunday, seeing the man that he could not break and despite his prejudices had come to respect, did the only thing that he could do. Using the taunt that he had used as a dive instructor to try to force Brashear out, he rekindled the flagging flame of Brashear's will with his next words that he barked out.

"Goddamit Cookie! Move your ass, I want my twelve!"

With that Brashear stood slowly and continued his agonizing march to accomplish what was thought impossible. "Nine! The Navy Diver is not a fighting man, he is a salvage expert. Ten! If it is lost underwater, he finds it. If it's sunk, he brings it up. If it's in the way, he moves it. Eleven! If he's lucky, he will die young, 200 feet beneath the waves, for that is the closest he'll ever get to being a hero. Hell, I don't know why anybody'd want to be a Navy diver. Now you report to this line, Cookie!"

With that Brashear took the final step that he needed to prove his worth.

As he did, Trieste gasped as she realized that she had been hearing the song of the Challenger Deep calling to her, pulling her into reality from being a disembodied spirit.

With a flash that blew out light bulbs in the exhibit room, but left the film running, she manifested atop her hull.

"The United States Navy proudly reinstates Senior Chief and Diver Carl Brashear to full active duty!"

With those words ringing in her ears as the credits rolled, she made her way to the floor and saluted the Navy Lieutenant who had arrived in response to her manifestation.

"Sir, USS Trieste, DSV-0 reporting for duty!"
*-*-*-*
WickedestCard said:
So, what do you all think about this snip? I tried to show just how far CDP's reach can be as well as tying up a bit of a loose end. Also if anyone has any questions or such go ahead. But this way if/when Hoppou meets Portia she can state she's at least felt one other natural Elder Princess.​
Loved it!
 
Have At Thee
NotHimAgain

Okay... it's been a long while. And while I've been thinking about it, I ultimately concluded that the only way to keep things flowing right is to leave the last snippet as-is, so much as I hate it. I'll be glad when this is over and done with. And now, without further ado...
Have At Thee
A rush of motion caught the War Sword's eye, and she glanced up from her guests to see the young woman hanging in midair, feet out and gun coming up in her hand.

"Well, here we go," she said absently, shifting her weight to stand.
-----

Over the radio, Tatsuya cursed. Reiko winced, but she agreed with the sentiment.

"Benio, DuBois! Get in there with her!"

"I'm sorry?" the American demanded testily.

"Do you want her to die?"

"I—"

"Could you do anything but go in after her?" Benio replied.

There was silence for a moment.

"… Moving," DuBois finally said flatly.

Reiko glanced at her friend. "How did you get him to do that?" The hanyou laughed.

"Crazy the kind of effect running around saving people all the time has on you, isn't it?" she said cheerfully. With a flick of her wrist, she was holding a climbing rope of her own.

"Yeah, that's very nice," Tatsuya said. Not exactly trustful, by the tone of his voice. "Reiko, how quickly can you finish that spell?"

"Almost done."

"Once it is, break through and join the fight."
-----

To the woman's credit, she had her wand out the moment that McKay hit the window and came through, scattering a curtain of glass over her opponents. The old man squawked in rage, and the War Sword briefly contemplated if she could take him out while his (apparently auror-trained, impressive that) assistant warred with the Scottish mad girl. No—too many doubts for her, and while Xiang was strong, she wasn't about to test her mental fortitude against one of her former tormenters. No, she would have to—

ARGH

The War Sword sank to her knees with a shriek born less of actual pain than shock (it hurt, but she had known disastrously worse at far less merciful hands). This was the trump card that they had? The onmyouji yokai—had to be—geez, it was starting to get hard to think. Disrupting her connection to her physical body? Wasn't that rude!

But then again, she contemplated as Xiang slapped a talisman onto her back, she wasn't exactly one to play fair either.

Of course, whatever it is she had been hit with was going to take a few moments to recover from, no getting around that. Best she could do was observe as she did.

The McKay girl kicked off of her opponent, knocking her away as the ceiling gave way in an explosion, roaring towards the old man as the Japanese girl swung in through the hole she left, Xiang rising up to meet her. The old man's wand snapped out and McKay hit the ground in a clumsy roll as he apparated.
-----

"The old guy's gone! Shit!"

Panic shot through Reiko's veins as she threw herself through the hole that she had opened—that was their one chance at healing Nameless! Now what?

Wait—the HWSotS was walking towards McKay (still struggling to her feet), Benio was fighting the Chinese lady—what about the third woman, the one who had actually accompanied the old man? Still there—at least, she was the only one Reiko didn't recognize—nursing a bloody nose!

In the panic of a single moment, Reiko forwent magical attack to simply tackle the woman. Her opponent let out a surprised oof, stumbling backwards as she was hit, glancing down at her younger assailant.

She grinned and winked, and while Reiko was taking a second to ask herself what that was about, she felt something turn inside out and they were gone.
-----

"REIKO!" the girl shouted, giving Xiang a moment to switch from defensive stance to offensive and land a blow (more glancing than she would have liked). Satisfied that she was free for the moment, the War Sword directed her attention to the Scottish headache currently righting herself—no, wait.

McKay was on hand and knee, breathing in sobs. One hand was held out, grasping at something invisible.

"Ma…" she gasped out between tears, "where're ye gooin'? Ma, please don' leave meh, please! Ma!"

The War Sword took a moment to survey her would-be opponent, registering what the old man's spell had done to her.

A foot lashed out, knocking her out of the waking dream she had been trapped in.

Bastard.

She would have to work out what to do with her later—suddenly, avenging her men held no more honor than slaughtering a helpless child.
-----

The grapnel hit the brick, and Tatsuya didn't hear so much as feel it crunch as it embedded itself.

"Why can't I help?" Sam demanded—well, pouted more like—as he set about securing the line with Tonbo's help.

"Because any of the people down there could put their fist through your head without even noticing," Tatsuya replied bluntly.

"He speaks the truth," Tonbo confirmed.

Sam kicked up dust angrily. "You both suck," she snarled.

"Now she tells us," Tonbo laughed. "Okay, here's something you can do." Taking a deep breath, she pulled her true body from its sheath, then handed the implement to the small girl. She looked at it dubiously, then back up at its owner.

"You want me to hold the thing and stay back where it's safe," she grumbled. "Seriously—I could help you! Little kids can help out—this, this is because of Jeffrey, isn't it! You just doing what he says—"

"Sam."

She went silent, staring up at Tatsuya. The Select tugged the rope, grunting in satisfaction. Then he turned back to Sam. "I was doing this about when I was your age. I know what a young child in the right place at the right time can do." He paused. "Or in the wrong place at the right time, or… well, any way around, really. Firsthand experience."

"Then why—"

"But," he continued, kneeling in front of her and looking her firmly in the eye, "this is neither that time nor that place. And more than that… Kid. This life is not an adventure. No matter what you think, looking at it from the outside, it's not fun. It's…" he paused, trying to think of how to put it. What would a little American girl understand? "… This tore me apart years ago. All you're looking at are the remnants of a human being. Just… stay here and hold this."

He pressed his phone into her hands. Sam looked at it dubiously. "What's this?" she asked.

"Reinforcements. Come on, Tonbo."

The Muramasa snickered at him as she stepped forward, examining her blade. "Well aren't you mister personable today?" she grinned.

Tatsuya shrugged. "Benio's been after me to be friendlier," he said, glancing down at his landing platform. DuBois had joined the fight—getting his ass kicked. Benio was holding neck and neck with the Chinese woman, though she was slowing considerably. McKay—wasn't dead, but wasn't in the fight anymore. Reiko was gone—and he was going to deal with that. For now, though, his focus needed to be on what was in front of him.

"You're sure?" Tonbo asked, holding herself out.

"We need a way to equal her, keep her in place," Tatsuya replied. "This is the only chance I think we have at that." He raised a hand, tapping his com. "I'm coming in hot. Watch yourselves."

His hand closed over Tonbo's hilt.

Minute currents in the wind brushed against him, rustling his clothing in an inaudible symphony. The air came alive with individual, nameless scents that he could practically taste.

He looked and saw the Chinese woman, the Holy War Sword, and a path to them.

He leaped.
-----

No way am I satisfied with this, but I'm writing again! Yay? Next snippet out someday in the foreseeable future, possibly?

Oh gosh, why do I do this instead of working on Different Steps?

Uh, yeah... Well what do you think, sirs?
 
[Healer Haruto] the Smuggler 1
Harry Leferts

One hand on the wheel of his Cabin Cruiser, Haruto leaned back into his chair with a small sigh as he steered the boat he was on. Said chair had a cushioning charm on it which made it far more comfortable than normal non-magical chairs. The sea breeze caused his hair to ruffle in the airstream made him smile as he glanced around the area that his boat was going through, easily cutting through the waves in the pre-dawn light.

If one was to ask him, the Kudagitsune was the best boat of its kind. Back to just before he entered the Reserve to get the three Kitsunes that he then considered to be his older sisters out, him and his father had talked and planned. Themselves trying to sneak the three was right out of course. Part of which was that they understood that they would be amateurs to say the least. Chances were that they would get caught in the process and would doom themselves as well as the three Kitsune. No, smuggling them out themselves was not to be it.

What Haruto could do, of course, was find them first while doing what he could to help out the other Yokai as a Healer. Finding the three Kitsune had nearly brought him to tears of relief to say the least. And he was somewhat shocked by the fact of what they were and what that meant. The only real way that he could keep them in good shape was via supply, and there was not much food on the island. Haruto could easily see that the islanders were sacrificing some of their well-being to keep their defenders going, which meant that on one of his days off, he went and met with his father for a talk about how to keep them healthy, while helping the other Yokai by easing the strain on them.

Most important was a way to get in and out without being completely monitored. Neither were in any real doubt that he would be kept an eye on for bringing in supplies. Smuggling was rather common of course. Which meant he needed more cargo than just for the Yokai shipgirls there then he could carry. Not that it was too much an issue as it was too far to apparate back to the Mainland and there was the issue of trusting Diet-authorized Portkeys and the Floo. Which left one route.

Hence, they went boat hunting...

They had found the Cabin Cruiser that would become the Kudagitsune laid up with a few other boats. From what they were told, her original owner had bought her as a kit and was having her built. But Blood Week and the war caused a complete collapse of the industry, which meant that she was laid up and for all practical ability abandoned to the elements. Through some effort, Haruto and his father had fixed her up after buying her and then enchanting her.

In fact, one of the first things that they had done was cast stabilization charms on her so that even in the stormiest seas, she would keep upright. Another charm was expanding her fuel tanks so that she could travel a much further distance. Other spells made her able to sprint faster than one would think, or even travel underwater with a bubble over the engines and the cockpit with the rest of the hull sealed against the water. Sure, it was only to a depth of twenty feet, but better than most when travelling through waters that could have Abyssals in them.

For lessons, he sought out some of the Yokai fishermen to teach him how to handle a boat. Something that seemed to amuse them, but they helped. Not that they ever went out too far, of course. Always within sight of land, and Haruto needed to bring in the gas for their boats. But in the end, he became good enough for the next stage, which he brought in when he left and returned with the Kudgitsune.

Some of the Aurors had given him odd looks when he arrived at the small cove below the Guard Station. They had asked him plenty of questions as they searched his boat and checked each of the items that he brought in. Of course, they did leave him leave after four hours of searching and interrogating. Haruto had then brought the boat around the island to the small bay for the main settlement. The fishermen had looked over his boat and nodded while paying him compliments, even as they offloaded the supplies on it.

Much to his amusement, between yelling at him for risking his life piloting a boat on the open seas, Hachimitsu, Haruhime, and Mikage had cooed over the boat.

Well, them and Mie as well as Ichika did as well, declaring how cute it was. Something that he still did not understand to this very day, but always brought a smile to his face. And it was not just that one time either.

Currently though, Haruto was more interested as he slowed the boat right as it entered the ward line around the island with said place appearing from seemingly nowhere. Steering the Kudagitsune towards the 'Auror's Cove', he relaxed a little and his mind drifted back to two days before. In fact, to just before he left the island as a matter of fact when Chikako found out that he was leaving...

*********************************

Blinking, Haruto looked down at the small body that had collided with his legs, "Chikako-Chan? What's going on?" Getting mumbles, he looked up at the other girls who lived with him, "Uh, guys?"

Simply sighing as she rubbed the side of her head, Hachihime frowned, "She just found out that you're leaving for a few days."

That made the teen blink again before he looked down at the green haired Neko who was now looking up at him with a sad look in her eyes. A look that made Haruto internally flinch at, 'How devastating...' Shaking that off, he smiled a bit at her, "Is that true, Chikako-Chan? You just found out that I'm leaving for the mainland for a few days?"

Just burying her face into his stomach, she nodded, "Mm-hm."

Haruto for his part softly smiled before bringing his hand down and placing it between her ears which perked up. Gently, he rubbed her head between said ears, "I'm sorry about that, Chikako-Chan."

In reply, Chikako blinked as her eyes met his, "So you won't go now?"

Chuckling weakly, the Healer scratched his cheek, "Sorry, Chikako-Chan, but I have to. Among other things, I need to go and buy things for the Yokai here in the reserve. And to buy supplies for Hachimitsu-Nee-San and the others."

Once more, Chikako looked up at him before burying her face in his stomach again, "Don't want you to go."

When he looked towards the Yokai, Haruto found no help coming from that direction as most of them were smirking, though Mie was softly smiling, 'Thanks guys...' Crouching down, he met Chikako's eyes and continued to pat her head, "I don't want to go either, I want to stay with you and the others. But if I don't do this, than no one will." Giving her a smile and a wink, he continued, "I'll bring you some fish that I'm sure that you'll like as well. How about that?"

Looking down, the Nekomata mumbled a bit though he could still make out her words, "Fine..."

Rolling his eyes, Haruto sighed a little, "I promise, I'll be back in a day or two tops getting the supplies. Then it will be at least another month before I have to leave again, okay? I promise."

Slowly, Chikako nodded, "You better."

Gently rubbing her between the ears, he smiled, "I will."

Head going back and forth, Chikako closed her eyes, "Nya... nya... nyaaa..."

Lips twitching, Haruto stopped and gave her a hug, which she returned just as tightly before rushing back into their hut with a goodbye. Hands on his hips, the teen shook his head before turning towards the five older Yokai who all had a strange look on their faces, "What?"

Crossing her arms over her chest, Hachimitsu walked up to him, "It's nothing at all."

After giving him a tight hug, she then proceeded to deeply kiss him. Something followed by her sisters as well as Mie and Ichika. When he got into the
Kudgitsune, Haruto noticed that Chikako was watching from nearby and she ran along the shore of the bay as he headed out waving the whole time until she was out of sight while shouting goodbye and for him to remember his promise...

******************************************

Entering the cove and making his way towards the underground tunnel that continued under the guard station, Haruto frowned a little, "I still don't understand those smiles of theirs. How why Chikako-Chan was acting the way that she was..." With a sigh, he rolled his eyes, "But then, I'm just a guy."

It was only a few minutes that found him pulling alongside where other boats were and throwing a rope that was tied up. Stepping onto the dock, he was met by Sunada who gave a nod, "Morning, Haruto-San. Finally back from your trip, hmm?"

With a small shrug, the teen chuckled, "Hai, I'm back." Reaching into his pocket, he pulled out a clipboard and handed it over, "Here you go, my manifest..."

Not noticing Haruto trailing off, Sunada hummed as he took the manifest and gave a low whistle, "Got quite the haul this time, don't you?"

Frowning, Haruto gave a small nod, "I managed to make some deals." Frown still on his face, he turned to Sunada, "What's going on? The other guards are pretty quiet and..."

Simply glancing at where the various guards were looking around nervously, the Auror snorted, "And acting on their best behavior? Some big shot bureaucrat from the Diet is performing an inspection. She's also got some Canadian and American Aurors with her as well. So you can guess what is going on."

Quiet for a few moments, Haruto lowered his voice, "What can you tell me about them?"

Lowering his own voice and making it appear as if he was discussing the manifest, Sunada shook his head some, "Well, the bureaucrat is Miyata Naomi-San, whose father..."
Eyes widening slightly, the younger man tapped one part of the manifest, "Is Miyata Shigeru-San?" At the nod and the slight inquiring look, he grimaced, "My Otou-San is also in the Diet as a Clerk. According to him, the elder Miyata is a spider at the center of a web and that it is best not to catch his attention if one could help it. Though for some reason, my baka of a Nii-San once muttered about how he was going to change the elder Miyata's office once he got it.'

Almost a minute passed of Sunada staring before he commented, "I knew that little brat was a Manuke, but as the Yanks say, that takes the cake." He suddenly grinned, "Please tell me he said it within earshot of someone at the Diet, that would make my day."

Only humming, Haruto smiled mysteriously, "It was at that one small sake bar about two blocks from the Diet. I think that you know the one."

Briefly, the older man had a shark-like grin on his face before hiding it just as quick as it had been revealed. Clearing his throat, he gave a small nod, "Anyways... She works for Councillor Ito at the moment, though I would not be too surprised if her Otou-San was somehow involved. As for the American and the Canadian Aurors? One of them is a de Bruil Delilah and the Canadian is Wei Ying." At the confused look, he shrugged, "Chinese-Canadian I've been told."

Raising an eyebrow, Haruto cleared his throat, "Sounds like you know her?"

Just shrugging, Sunada shook his head, "Kind of, my mentor spoke of her and how she was involved during the Occupation. Considered her a bit of a bleeding heart, but respected her for at least using the law properly and by the word of it when she wished to help someone instead of going around it. From what I know, de Bruil-San might have been involved at the same time, though she looks at least part Japanese."

Simply nodding at that, the Healer turned to more important things such as getting him cleared to head to the town. As Haruto had expected, one of the Aurors that he knew were under orders from his older brother showed up and frogmarched him to the Interrogation room. Just before he was shoved in though, he noticed what had to be the two foreign Aurors as well as Miyata Naomi looking on in confusion and some surprise. However, one of the two Aurors had narrowed her eyes quickly and turned towards the Bureaucrat who seemed at a loss herself.

Internally sighing, Haruto sat down in the usual chair and the chains wrapped themselves around his arms. Something that made him give the Auror a flat look, "Do we have to do this every damn time? Seriously?"

Glaring at him, the Guard snarled a bit, "You know why." He then slammed a fist into the table, "Now then, tell me what contraband you have on your boat and we might let you off easy, Healer-San."

However, if he had expected it to intimidate Haruto, it failed as all it got him was a flat look from the younger man, "And as I have told you each time, I don't have contraband on my boat. My cargo has been cleared and is outlined on the manifest as always and being signed by Sugimoto-San when I leave port. I am not involved in the smugglers at all, as I have stated each and every time we do this."

For the next fifteen minutes, Haruto kept an watch on the clock in boredom, the Auror questioned him and tried to get answers that he did not have out of him. The fact that Haruto wasn't afraid and more bored seemed to frustrate and anger the Auror to no end. Unknown to the other wizard, the teen was internally somewhat amused by it.

At one point, the Auror walked over to the water machine and filled a glass with water before tapping it and causing frost to form over it. He made his way over and splashed Haruto in the face with the freezing cold water which made the Healer grimace before he gave the guard a look, "Freezing water? Really?"

Eyebrow twitching, the other wizard grabbed him by his Healer's robes and shook him before growling, "You are damn lucky that Miyata-San and the Gaijin are outside right now, or else we would move onto other matters. Now then, you live among the beasts so where. Are. The. Smugglers!?"

Slowly blinking, Haruto sighed, "And once more, I don't know. Because I am a Healer, not an Auror so I don't go looking for them. I also told my patients and the people in the Reserve that I do not want to know anything about the smugglers nor do I care about them so it is best that they make sure that I do not get involved. The same answer that I have given you each time you have asked this to me..." Pausing for a moment, he frowned, "At least this time there's no truth serum involved."

Taking a deep breath, the Guard's cheek muscle twitched, "Obviously, you likely have some way around it considering that you are a Healer." Yet again, he shook him and pulled him up by his robes, "Now, answer the damn question-"

Right at that moment, the Auror was cut off as the door slammed open revealing the two foreign Aurors there as well as Naomi. It took only seconds for the eyes of the three to glance from where the guard was holding Haruto by his healer robes, with said teen chained to the chair and thus unable to move while dripping with water from the head, face, and neck, to the table.

Where there was a glass that had ice on the outside of it sitting empty with some water around it.

Naomi slowly blinked with an odd smile on her face, "May I ask, Auror, why exactly you are manhandling the Healer assigned to this Reserve? Hmm?"

Glancing at the Auror, whose face had an odd splotches to it as if trying to pale and flush at the same time, Haruto blinked as he stuttered out that he was interrogating someone suspected of helping in smuggling regarding the Reserves. Not even a second after that, the Healer felt his chair's legs hit the floor as the Auror let him go, for some reason the sound of the wooden legs against the floor made him think of a coffin lid slamming shut, 'Huh...'

One of the Aurors fingers was tapping out a song of sorts against the handle of a gun of some sort she had holstered at her side, "I take it that you have been asking him this question many times now?" At the look from the guard, she gestured at the mirror at the other side of the room, "We were wondering what was going on and were watching from the behind there. Your superior didn't want to talk about it at first, but under some persuasion from Miyata-San, confirmed that you have interrogated this Healer each time he has returned from the mainland after a trip. Though..." Cocking her head to the side, she looked at Naomi, "Is it normal to interrogate someone under a suspicion with truth serum?"

Muscle moving in her cheek as her smile became more odd, the Bureaucrat shook her head, "No, it is against procedure as a matter of fact."

From where he was still in the chair, Haruto looked between the now frightened Auror and the group of three women, 'Wonder if this will stop the interrogations...'
 
[Healer Haruto] the Smuggler 2
Harry Leferts

Walking down to where his boat was tied up, Haruto lightly blushed as he rubbed the back of his neck, "Um, thanks for that."

Only shrugging, Delilah gave him a small nod, "It was not much of an issue." Glancing at Naomi who looked like she had bit into an apple and found it rotten, she continued, "Does that happen often?"

For several moments, the teen was quiet before he spoke, "I cannot speak for every one, but... for me at least? Hai, it does." Haruto gave a small shrug, "I've gotten used to it."

Expression turning stormy, Naomi took a deep breath, "Which you should not have, Healer Hayate. I believe such issues will... disappear soon." Internally, she took a deep breath, 'The last thing that the Diet needs is a scandal if this was to get out...' Glancing at Del and Ying, she grimaced slightly, 'Hopefully, I can convince them to leave this as an internal issue...'

As they came up upon his boat, Ying gave it a once over and hummed with a small smile, "Quite the nice boat, Hayate-San."

Bowing slightly, Haruto smiled back, "Thank you, I am quite pleased with her and she has served me well with getting supplies from the mainland. I was returning from such a run."

Her eyebrow raised, Del gave him a searching look, "You're bringing in supplies? From the mainland?" At his nod, she frowned slightly, "Is that not dangerous? With the Abyssals and such."

Just shrugging, the teen shook his head, "Perhaps, but every little bit helps. Besides which, I mostly keep along the islands and sprint between them on the way here with a slightly different route each time." Unnoticed by him, all three women narrowed their eyes as they suspected that it was not just because of possible watching Abyssals, "However, it is unfortunately needed."

Realizing that this was a chance to get away from the previous subject, Naomi cleared her throat, "You mentioned supplies? May I ask of what sort?"

With a blink, Haruto looked at her strangely before giving a small shrug, "Well, with the shortage of potion ingredients, I've had to look at substitutions. For some, this means older, less effective potions that can be made with common, local ingredients." After they nodded, he continued, "The other is to substitute No-Maj medicines and the like to get around the major issues."

Ying looked rather intrigued by that, "You have substituted No-Maj medicine for help?"

Scratching his neck, the Healer sighed, "Hai, though thankfully it is not usually that difficult to do." For a moment, Haruto paused before continuing, "Most of the injuries that I deal with are in the form of cuts, sprains, broken bones, and the like. All of which can be handled by a combination of things. Rubbing alcohol to disinfect wounds as one example before I seal them up. Antibiotics can be given when one is ill with a disease that a spell confirms is bacterial. Or painkillers for when one of my patients is in pain, but not enough for me to use a pain relieving potion which I need to ration. I've also worked to teach those that want No-Maj first aid and the like to help with the workload."

Now truly interested, Naomi hummed, "And this works? Including teaching them No-Maj first aid?"

Turning to her, Haruto gave a nod, "Believe it or not, it does. When someone breaks a bone, it helps when those around them can fix a splint to it and makes it easier on me when I heal it." He took a deep breath before turning to the three women, "A better example was... a few years back when we had a cholera outbreak here in the Reserve."

Her eyes narrowing, the American among them glanced at Naomi who froze, "A cholera outbreak..." With a deep breath, she turned back to him even as it brought back bad memories, "How did you handle it?"

A grimace on his face, Haruto gestured at himself, "I was the only medically trained person in the Reserve and most of the time I spent was fighting the outbreak among the Yokai. For the most part, all I could do was treat the symptoms."

Slowly, Del gave a nod as she thought back at her own experience, "Dehydration, diarrhea, and the like."

Nodding, Haruto sighed as he had his own bad memories, "Hai. I was able to treat the symptoms due to a lack of cholera cure by using a sort of No-Maj potion made of water, electrolytes, and mashed banana of all things. It kept them alive and I taught a number of the Yokai how to make it. We also had a number of them on duty which included washing dirty clothing and sheets using large cauldrons filled with boiling hot water and No-Maj disinfectants. Mostly, I handled the worst cases where they needed magic to survive. We still lost people, but... far less than otherwise. Especially if it was just myself working to do so."

Unknown to him, the three women realized what he meant by that. However, Ying then cleared her throat, "You mentioned other supplies?"

With a blink, Haruto snapped out of the memories and shook his head, "Ah, well... for the most part I've focused on prevention here. For example, lots of soap and especially disinfectant soap, shampoo to prevent the spread of lice and such, and No-Mag disinfectants for washing buildings and floors."

Frowning, Naomi furrowed her eyebrows, "That... could get to be expensive."

Much to her surprise though, Haruto chuckled, "Only if you are not smart." At her raised eyebrow, he cleared his throat, "Ah, well... for example, soap? Not that hard actually. Did you know that No-Maj hotels and inns which have those small soap bars throw them out afterwards? I have a number of friends who collect them and I simply use an engorgement charm and some transfiguration to make sure that they're clean. Same with those bottles of shampoo in such places. I then hand them out at my clinic for free. Disinfectants and detergents are much the same way and one can buy them in bulk. Keeps disease vectors down and the less there are, the better. Same with bottles of vitamins sold by No-Majs since they can help prevent diseases such as scurvy and the like as well as help growing children."

At some point, the lone Diet Bureaucrat had pulled out a notebook and was making notes, "How cheap can one buy such things in bulk?"

Blinking at that, Haruto gave her an odd look, "Uh, well... the soap and shampoo for example is free? The hotels and inns just toss them out afterwards anyways after the guests leave since they're not about to reuse them. Only real cost is gathering them up. Disinfectants and detergents are pretty cheap as long as you don't go for fancy brands, for example plain bleach. Just get some small jugs, fill them up, and use the engorgement charm to make them larger and with more liquid inside them. I spend maybe... five Ryo on the entire reserve each trip? Or there about for that. Vitamins? I buy them in bulk and in general I don't have many Yokai get more than a bottle about every three months or so. That costs a bit more, but I consider the fact that it keeps them healthy worth it."

Completely silent, Naomi stared at him, "I... see..."

Despite being confused, he continued, "Um... besides that, I get bags of sawdust from mills, with the sawdust transfigured into blocks for transport. Since there's no trees here, it can be used as cheap fuel. Same with any waste wood really... I also buy No-Maj shipping pallets and crates as needed and break them into their component pieces since they can be used as building material though there is one guy who figured out how to make geta with them. Also pretty cheap since usually they just want to get rid of them with some paying me to dispose of them. Any nails or screws can be reused or handed to the local blacksmith as raw material." Ignoring the widened eyes, Haruto continued to tick off on his fingers, "I also buy fabric sheets and such, though sometimes I manage to come across piles of old clothes and sheets that can be reused. Though I let the Yokai redistribute them." Remembering something, the Healer nodded, "I also get large drums of used cooking oil from No-Maj restaurants. It can be transfigured into fuel oil and the like for lamps and such. Once more, they practically throw the stuff at me. And since I spend most of my time on the reserve, I use my own paycheck with some extra donated by people I know, so I have enough... Um, are you alright, Miyata-San?"

Only closing her eyes, said woman tried to ignore the strangled sound she had made, "Y-yes, of course." Taking a deep breath, she opened her eyes and looked at him, "How did you figure out most of that? I can... understand about the medical portions, and perhaps the wood, but..."

Somewhat lost, Haruto frowned, "Well... the soap and such came about after we visited an inn and I asked them what they did with the used soap afterwards. So I knew about that and simply used it for what I needed. The cooking oil is because there was a No-Maj nearby that used it for fuel during the rationing after Blood Week. The rest just came about due to reading. No-Majs call it 'Necessity is the Mother of Invention' for some reason, but it fits." Grumbling a bit, he shook his head, "Not like there is much for funds anyways..."

Amused at Naomi's reaction, Del cleared her throat though some thoughts were going through her mind, "Well then, I think that perhaps we should continue out chat. If possible... could you give us a lift to the main village? That way we could continue our chat?"

While a little confused, Haruto was also unsure. However... there was a gut feeling that told him he should go for it, and so he nodded, "Of course, just please be careful due to the cargo onboard." He smiled a bit, "I may be a healer, but I prefer not to cause work by hazards."

That got him several chuckles and shortly afterwards, left.

Unknown to Haruto, though, the fact that he was friendly to Naomi and she was asking for advice marked him as entirely off limits. None of those wanted to anger someone like Shigeru after all. The man could make their careers, or what would be left of them along with their lives in general, hell. No, best to leave the Healer alone from now on...
 
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Ship of Fools 12
Ship of Fools XII - Fine Booze and Fine Manners

A couple of days after the Raid on Harrods and Lucius's credit limit at the Malfoy Manor

-0-

Lucius apparated into the main hall of Malfoy Manor with a slight pop, several files and scrolls in hand. He went straight to his den and private office. Pouring himself a snifter of the Louis XIII brandy he had been given, he began to read through the ICW files on Colombe duChasteler. Lucius was nothing if not thorough. He took the time to read each file twice as he sipped the admittedly very fine brandy.

Putting the files in a neat pile on his desk, he called for a house elf to summon Narcissa and Draco to his study. His wife and son soon appeared, Narcissa with a handful of scrolls of her own and Draco with a basket and sealed letter.

"This arrived via owl, Father. The seal matches the signet ring cousin Ehren was wearing."

"Indeed." Lucius cast a few charms, ensuring that neither basket nor letter held any magical traps or geas. "Let us see what our continental cousins have to say." As he broke the seal on the letter and unfolded it, Lucius's eyebrows shot towards his forehead. "Well now. No enchanted quill-work or penmanship here. Look Draco, this is an almost forgotten art. The letter alone confirms various things in the ICW files on Colombe du Chasteler." He completed reading the letter and turned to the basket. Upon opening it, Lucius Malfoy actually stopped in stunned admiration.

"What is it dear?" Narcissa asked.

"Draco, you truly were born lucky my son. All regarding that minor shopping spree is forgiven. By nurturing this contact with lost cousins, any bill has been repaid at least fourfold. The four bottles of brandy she has sent as a token of her gratitude is amazing. This brandy is nearly beyond price. I've searched for years trying to find one bottle of an inferior batch of this very brandy and have been unable to find anyone willing to part with it."

Narcissa sighed, "Lucius, your enthusiasm is showing again."

Lucius coughed into his hand. "Ahem. Also, the fact that Colombe du Chasteler is an original shareholder in Jardine Matheson, and is in fact, family? That is priceless. Tying our shares to the du Chasteler holdings multiplies the influence immeasurably. Such standing and wealth will ensure the family survives the fall of the Statute. However, we must reply and send a suitable gift in return."

Narcissa looked at Lucius, "And the fact that she is wanted by the ICW for a myriad of charges going back to the French Revolution, husband? What of that?"

"Someone who has eluded the grasp of the Aurors in all of these governments?" He gestured grandly at the stack of files. "A person like that is certainly performing the same checks into our backgrounds as we are doing to her. Both sides have enough information to destroy the other, therefore our families have vested interests in the other's mutual well being. In other words my wife, and take heed Draco, we must all hang together, lest we hang separately."

He clapped his hands and gathered the finest stationary at hand with a fine pen. "Come watch Draco, I may lack the perfection of Cousin du Chasteler's penmanship but I will make an effort to respond in kind. Narcissa, have the house elves retrieve the last two bottles of the 1849 Chateau LaFitte de Rothschilde. I've never been the oenophile my father was, so this gift will be a proper response to her gift of brandy. Also! I think we should extend the du Chastelers an invitation to the Manor in June. Perhaps just after Draco and Nimue's birthday?"

"Certainly no earlier. Nimue is going to be rather overwhelmed as it is Lucius." Narcissa's voice trembled. "I'm finally going to see my little girl, Lucius. DO NOT DRIVE HER AWAY AGAIN."

Lucius swallowed the unbidden alarm in his throat as the bottles of wine arrived. It would not do to get Narcissa angry again. He knew he would not survive such an error again. He finished the letter with its invitation to stay at Malfoy Manor for a visit in the second week of June. Sealing it and placing it atop the basket with its new burden, he had Draco find an owl to deliver the parcel to Castle Moulbaix.
 
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Ship of Fools 13
Ship of Fools XIII



May 17th 2014 The Longstreet residence – Yokosuka Naval Base

"Well now, this takes me back," Kiho looked over at the picture frame Dalt had just removed from one of the storage boxes on the side table, "hell, I think this was fifteen, maybe sixteen years ago? I hadn't made Chief Petty Officer yet..."

Kiho stared at the photograph of a younger mustachioed Dalt as she sat in his lap, the old fashioned leather Queen Anne high-back wing chair proving roomy enough and Dalt's lap comfy enough for her to do so. She pointed to the mustache and looked at Dalt questioningly. "Why did you shave it off?"

"If I remember right, it wasn't because of Antarctica, it was after my first winter up at Kodiak on the Bering sea. It was after we went out to rescue a crab trawler in distress and it was so cold that the salt water spray from the waves would freeze solid. My mustache caught so much water and froze so hard that it broke off my face when I was able to get below decks to warm up. That hurt."

Kiho traced her finger along his upper lip. "Should I kiss it to make it grow back?"

"You want me to grow it back?" Dalt's eyes gazed upward in thought, then he smirked as his hand moved from the location of Kiho's hip, gliding down the smooth material of the pencil skirt, to give her backside a playful squeeze. He turned his head to Kiho and pressed his lips to hers at her surprised squeak. He continued after pulling back from the kiss, "I'll just have to ask my brother to bring me a few things I have in storage then. It takes a bit more than disposable razors to properly groom a handlebar mustache."

Kiho stood up and stretched for a moment. She smirked, leaned down and placed a fingertip just underneath Dalt's chin. "I'm sure that can wait for a hour or two. After all, I do think that there's something else on your mind at the moment.... EEEK!" Kiho squealed in surprise as Dalt bolted from the chair and swept her over his shoulder.

"I think you're right my dear." Dalt grinned as he hauled a giggling Kiho into the bedroom.

-0-

May 22nd the Malfoy Townhouse, London

Arthur Weasley frowned as he stood in front of the London townhouse of Lucius Malfoy. Yesterday there had been a meeting in Fudge's office. Dumbledore and Lucius had reported the good news that the reinforced wards at Verdun had held, and the danger of that battlefield awakening and shredding the Statute of Secrecy of the last tattered strings holding it intact was now over. Arthur had felt sheer relief that such a calamity had been averted, but the events after the meeting were puzzling and somewhat alarming to his mind. Lucius had specifically asked Arthur to visit his London townhouse to discuss 'matters concerning Arthur's remit'.

So now Arthur was at the front door, ringing the bell, when he realized what the niggling buzzing in his head was about, or rather, the lack of the buzz of muggle-notice-me-not charms and wards. When had Lucius taken down those wards and left his London home just open like this? More importantly, why? The door opened and Arthur found himself being appraised by a valet, a human one at that.

"How might I assist you sir?"

"Arthur Weasley. I believe I'm expected?"

"Ah yes. Please follow me, Mr. Weasley and do please wipe your feet."

Arthur furrowed his brow in confusion but complied with the valet's request. After doing so, he followed the valet into a sumptiously furnished room which obviously served as Lucius's study. Dark but warm oak wainscotting with Racing Green paint above graced the walls, along with a handful of old but masterwork paintings. Knowing Lucius, they probably are originals as well. Lucius was sitting behind a massive, old fashioned desk made of ebony wood. Lucius stood up as the valet announced Arthur and nodded to the valet.

"Thank you Goyle. That will be all. I'll ring if anything is required."

"Understood Sir." With a bow, the valet closed the door to the study behind him.

"Glad to see you that you came Arthur. Come, take a seat. Drink?"

Arthur paused as he started to take a seat, startled by Lucius Malfoy who was being almost warm and cordial for the dark wizard. I need to keep my wits about me, at least till I'm sure of Malfoy's game. "No thank you Lucius. I do admit to being curious as to the why and what-fors of your invitation though."

"Business before pleasure then." Lucius put down a crystal decanter beside a matching pair of brandy snifters on a small but expensively stocked drinks cabinet. "What is your opinion on plans and methods to deal with Dolores, Arthur? I do not agree with Dumbledore on just allowing her to remain unhindered until the Statute falls and hope the muggles sweep her up to incarcerate her along with the rest of the Ministry."

"I know, but what other choice is there? And no, assassination is not an option I'm willing to go through with. No matter how tempting it may feel at times."

"You are correct in that is not a current option but remains a tempting one nonetheless. No, the pink toad is far too valuable and important a scapegoat for when the Statute falls and the muggles are baying for heads. Fudge is a moron and the muggles will want the actual masterminds to hang, not just the flunky who told them to sign the papers. So the question is really, who can we save from the enraged muggle governments by hanging the responsibility for the most egregious debacles on Dolores?" Lucius hummed and filled one of the snifters three quarters of the way with brandy.

Nodding in acceptance at Lucius's new offer of a drink, Arthur replied, "Save whom Lucius? I'm certain you have a contingency plan to come out smelling of roses like the last time, but there's likely no escape for anyone whose worked in the Ministry for more than five years."

Sighing as he put down his snifter, Lucius gave Arthur a look of exasperation. "Please tell me you are NOT intending to sacrifice yourself on the altar of 'justice' Arthur. Martyrdom may suit Albus just fine, but the Ministry will need some experienced hands to guide the transition to muggle oversight. You and Madame Bones are far too important to follow along Dumbledore's penance parade. Let Albus take the blame as long as Umbridge takes the fall with him by Merlin."

"Why me Lucius? We haven't exactly gotten along, Merlin knows our families have had bad blood since before the Statute if I recall."

Lucius swirled his brandy, inhaling its aroma deeply before he replied. "For a recent distillation this Louis XIII is a superb cognac. Do try it Arthur, I believe you'll find it most pleasing. To answer your question, you are one of the few competent department leads in the Ministry, you know what the muggle world is, let alone have an actual clue as to how it works, and most importantly you have a reputation for incorruptibility."

Arthur sipped his cognac before replying. "Why not replace me with your own supporters during such an event Lucius? Surely they would be more malleable to your goals. And colour me skeptical about the praises you are singing of me, after all, it hasn't been that long since a certain diary was placed in my daughter's things."

Lucius winced. "That was a titanic cock-up on my part Arthur. I apologize for the distress and danger that was inflicted on your daughter. For what it might be worth to you to know, Draco was paralyzed and Narcissa was a breath away from killing me on the spot once she found out." He rolled a mouthful of liquor around his mouth to savor the flavors as they rose and fell until he continued. "When He first reappeared, I was... greatly perturbed. I have reasons to fear the return of that lunatic. So, in light of Dumbledore's unwillingness to seek out and end the threat once and for all, I thought I had a better plan. At the time, I believed that the diary would contain an earlier, saner, version of the Dark Lord, ambitious and dark, but still sane and amenable to reason." Lucius's voice became rueful and filled with self-loathing. "Events proved me utterly wrong Arthur. My hubris nearly killed my son, along with nearly the entire school."

Arthur Weasley looked over his glass at Lucius, then pantomimed cleaning out his ear with a finger. "I must be hearing things. Lucius Malfoy admitting to hubris and fault? I must be hallucinating." Lucius smirked and was about to speak but Arthur cut him off. "So all this puffery you're trying to sell me is your way of making amends? I admit the cognac is divine, but bribery isn't your game here so what is it?"

"With the Statute failing, the world will be a muggle one Arthur. One that magical-kind will have to learn to live in. You understand that and have been making plans for your children to do that. Thank Merlin for the ship-girls who have claimed Draco as their boyfriend. That gave me the push to look into restoring old Malfoy contacts in the muggle world as well. Most of my faction in the Wizengamot? They have no clue what is in store. In essence Arthur, keeping you and Amelia on at the Ministry is saving them as well as you."

"So that's why I haven't seen a house-elf, or why there are no muggle-repelling charms on the townhouse! You're integrating the Malfoy family and properties into the muggle world before the Statute collapses. You're creating immunity for yourself!" Arthur's mouth hung open in shock at his realization of Lucius's webs.

"Bravo Arthur," Lucius tipped his glass towards Arthur, "but yes I am in essence cultivating a non-magical history for my family and business interests. You already noticed my valet, Goyle? Normally I wouldn't trust a magical Goyle with anything requiring more than a low animal cunning. But Goyle squibs are another matter. They can achieve a muggle working class level of mediocrity. My valet's brother is apparently the self-made man of the line. He owns his own plumbing firm. But let us return to the most important subject. What debacles will have the muggles enraged ?"

-0-

May 21st 12 Grimmauld Place

Narcissa paused before the front door to the ancestral home of the Black family, doubt and emotional turmoil roiling inside her. Turmoil briefly turning to terror as the door to home where she grew up was opened by an Abyssal. Shoving down hard on the fear, Narcissa simply looked back into the glowing eldritch eyes of the abomination and spoke calmly.

"I am Narcissa Malfoy nee Black. Sirius and Andromeda should be expecting me."

The Abyssal led Narcissa through the main hall to the formal parlour. Narcissa had to admit to herself that the last time she had seen the house in such a state of cleanliness was before she was married to Lucius. She sighed as unbidden memories of the last times she had been in the company of her sisters and cousins under cordial terms welled up in her mind. Well, semi-cordial at least. Even before she went insane Bellatrix was rarely pleasant company. She walked into the parlour to the sight of her sister Andromeda and Sirius sitting on opposite sides of an ancient coffee table, leaving a chair at the end for her. She smiled at one of the traditional old power plays of the family, leaving her to have to divide her focus during the upcoming discussions.

As she took her seat and accepted a cup of tea from the Abyssal dressed in one of the old family maid uniforms, (Wait we always had house elves, never maids! That has to be one of Great Aunt Lyra's infamous outfits!) Andromeda surprised Narcissa and spoke first.

"Bridge Night here isn't until October Narcissa. And with Sirius now a free man, and showing a shocking streak of responsibility, I've taken the opportunity to fill him in since he's going to be living here until the country house is redone. What else requires you to meet with we who have been burned from the tapestry?"

Narcissa inhaled deeply before she began. "Family matters... and a wish to reconcile on my part. I apologize to both of you for my part in upholding the Sanction inflicted on both of you. If anything, the family would have been far better served to burn our sadistic lunatic of a sister off the tapestry."

Sirius leaned forward in interest. "I thought that Andy's exile and my imprisonment would have brought the two of you together Cissy."

"Until she got sent to Azkaban she was slightly less unpleasant than her usual self. I'm sure that Andromeda explained why she was never brought into the secret of Bridge Night, correct? She knew those evil old family spirits are down there and were sealed away for bloody good reasons. Where do you think she learned half of the dark magics she possessed? It wasn't from school I can assure you. She even tried to gain their support for Voldemort. Thankfully they were arrogant enough to mock her for following a 'mudblood upstart' and she left in a rage and never thought to release them. No, it was recent revelations that leave me to hope that she rots in Azkaban forever and that she is no sister of mine."

Andromeda's voice was icily chill when she spoke. "What did Bellatrix do?"

Narcissa took a sip of tea. "If you remember when I was pregnant, and due to give birth, that a week before I went into labor Lucius's father died from complications of Dragon Pox."

"Yes, a lot of us cheered when Abraxus kicked the bucket. It was a bit of a surprise that an evil old bastard like him got to die in his sleep." Sirius scowled.

"Oh he didn't. Like I said. It was complications. The Pox must have messed with his magic, because he had an apparation accident and ended up in the middle of a pack of football hooligan muggles rioting over something. Pure coincidence that dragon poxmarks look so similar to stab wounds. And he had made such a fuss of looking forward to educating his grandchild to be a proper Malfoy scion and replacing his disappointment of a son." Narcissa gestured in a manner that suggested, 'but what could be done after all?'

"Alright, Abraxus was an idiot to say that where Lucius could hear and have time to act. Where does Bella come in?" Sirius was leaning forward now, his interest completely piqued.

"She was enthralled with Voldemort by this time. She was also very interested in my pregnancy, but childbirth in general as well. When Voldemort rebuffed her offer to bear his children, she became more embittered than usual. As the war raged, she was inspired by an idea, which she suggested to Voldemort and gained his approval for. She showed Lucius a draft of the announcement that the Dark Lord would be making. Her idea was for all Death Eater families to give their second-born children and any children of his enemies, to Voldemort's chief research wizard to be made into weapons he could use against his enemies, or in an assault on the Ministry of Magic. Bellatrix wanted to make babies into Obscurials."

A tense agitated silence filled the room until Sirius broke it. "I should have killed her when I had the chance."

Andromeda nodded in agreement, but suddenly looked at Narcissa. "Is that why you never had another child after Draco?"

She nodded. "I never knew about the decree until recently. I had a difficult labor with Draco and was in a state of painful delerium. I remember vaguely passing out after giving birth, and when I awoke I was nursing Draco. After that I poured all the love a mother could give into my son." Narcissa sighed before she continued.

"Last year Draco got petrified by the Basilisk from the Chamber of Secrets. And Voldemort's spirit promised my son that he would kill Lucius and myself. Draco is so terrified of the thought of Voldemort killing us that he begged Lucius to learn wandless magic. So Lucius contacted a Master of wandless magic that he knew. It turns out this Flynn Longstreet was amenable to tutor Draco this summer, but what I did not know is that Flynn and Lucius are old acquaintences. Because in the letter this Longstreet sent accepting the offer, he included this." Narcissa pulled a photograph of a smiling thirteen year old girl with long straight blond hair in a pony tail, wielding pom-poms and wearing a cheerleader's outfit.

"Umm.. so he had blackmail material on Draco? I mean, it's nothing to be embarrassed about wanting to pull off a cross-dressing prank on the level that I was told Harry pulled off." Sirius shrugged and looked at Narcissa in confusion.

"That's not Draco. That is a photo of Nimue Malfoy, Draco's twin sister. Delivered less than three minutes after Draco." Narcissa sniffed as her eyes began to water.

"Twins? Oh sweet Hecate! Narcissa, that means that..." Andromeda stood and embraced her sister.

"When I saw the photo, I made Lucius explain just what he had done. He knew that Voldemort would have demanded he turn over Nimue to be made into...so Lucius entrusted her to Flynn to raise in America. And she... my little girl wants to meet her parents. If not for that lunatic Bellatrix, I would have been able to raise my daughter and not be without her for thirteen years!" As she broke down into sobs, even Sirius Black rose to comfort his long estranged cousin.

A few hours later

Narcissa stood in the foyer of 12 Grimmauld Place with a large picture covered in black cloth in hand as she bid her farewells. Andromeda hugged her and extracted a promise to go shopping with Nymphadora, Andromeda, herself and Nimue at some point. Sirius just grinned and pinched Isley's bum. Narcissa could only mentally shake her head at the incorrigibility of the male Black.

Isley spoke up and pointed to the picture. "T-t-thank you for taking that with you. It is so embarrassing."

"I thought it was sweet that dear Great-great aunt Lyra was willing to give you all those tips, dear Isley. I certainly would appreciate any demonstrations you might wish to have... OW!" Sirius rubbed the top of his head where Isley had bopped him.

"Stop being silly and pervy."

Narcissa stifled a laugh at the byplay. "Oh don't worry. There is an old lover of Lyra's that will adore having this portrait."

"Oh really Narcissa? Who can it be, they must be quite elderly."

She smirked. "Oh just the very inspiration for Lady Chastity Dovesworth herself, and I hear she is remarkably well preserved."

A few minutes later Narcissa had finished her farewells and had apparated back to Malfoy Manor.

-0-

May 30th Malfoy Manor Wiltshire England

The limousine belonging to the Malfoys pulled up the long drive to the carriage house. A middle-aged man in a Savile Row suit with black hair and blue eyes sighed as he picked up all the luggage after getting out of the car. A soon to be fourteen year old girl with long straight blond hair dressed in a seafoam green sundress smirked back at him in the impertinence only a daughter fully aware of her power over her father can.

"Nervous Nimi?"

"Ugh. Stop asking me that Daddy. You know I am just fine and not nervous at all. Duh." Of course Nimue Longstreet/Malfoy betrayed her nonchalance by worrying at her fingernails.

They walked up to the manor but before even entering the main door flew open. Nimue barely saw the blur fly out the door and coalesce itself in an enveloping embrace. As her senses returned from the momentary shock and impact, Nimue could hear and feel the sobs racking the frame of the blond haired woman hugging her. She awkwardly returned the embrace and turned her head enough to see a tall aristocratic man with long blond hair and a walking stick sighing as he walked out of the manor. Alongside him walked a face that was a twin to her own. A face that took on an expression of smug satisfaction as her brother's eyes beheld her predicament and decreasing air supply.

"Mom? Need... to... breathe..." Nimue gasped out. Narcissa's sobs increased and she began to wail.

-0-
 
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Bonds of Butterknife Friendship [Verdun aftermath]
Yellowhammer

In a distant castle in peaceful Belgium, slender musician's fingers caress her keys of ivory and ebony. Worried mahogany-brown eyes look toward the southeast where her family fights to defend her, the one left behind. Hammers strike the strings attached to her Muramasa-steel harp and the notes of a song written during a great war about the girl waiting for her defender sound emotions that speak louder than her words ever can.
Spoiler: Claire Waits

Bonds of Butterknife Friendship


Chattancourt, France

May 8th, 2014


Medea of Colchis landed her broom on the field south of the village, which had been turned into a miniature staging area. Cracking her back, she walked to the gate in the hedge separating this field from the village and nodded to the witch on duty.

The village was almost silent now that the last bodies from the poor souls who were in it when Verdun awoke were being removed. Medea sighed, she accepted the need to preserve the Masquerade, so repairing the damage from the shellfire and then announcing a WWI chemical shell dump had released poisonous gases that killed the souls in the middle of the night was necessary.

She didn't have to like it, especially since the end of the Statute was staring everyone in the face who was not blind.

Of course, politicians, wizards, witches, and governments the world over were blind.


She scowled at the memory of Germany ignoring the news of Verdun as "France's problem" despite it threatening them and them being responsible for half or more of it anyway. The scowl got a dangerous smug edge as she reflected that she was not the only one upset with Germany, and that when the Statute came crashing down, the muggle German government would be delighted to hear that a threat of national extinction had been blown off by their magicals.

Unlike others, who despite not being affected or even threatened had responded to the trumpet call to arms and risked all for those who scorned their names. Some of whom had willingly faced their worst nightmares once more because it was what a hero ultimately did.

With that she stopped and looked at the quintet of figures sitting somberly at a table that had been dragged onto the porch.

Two half-emptied bottles of the local red wine and a third of a wheel of cheese rested on the table. To the left Colombe du Chasteler poured more wine, ignoring the red and yellow stained bandages covering her torso. Masamune-no-Tokunotakai whispered her thanks from where she cuddled into her lover's side with haunted blue-green eyes, ignoring her own bandages. Next to her, Muramasa-no-Norimune looked at the looming bulk of the now-forested hills of Le Mort Homme and Cote 304 with an unreadable expression, idly rubbing her chin with the arm not in a sling.

On the other side of the table, Nightbane and Tsukiakari, also visibly injured, spoke in low voices. From the half-overheard words, they seemed to be comparing Verdun to Ypres and the Somme.

Medea walked to the table. Colombe looked up with red-rimmed eyes. "Professor Aetios, it's good to see you." Her voice lowered and became hushed "The wards?"

Medea gave a weary smile. "Are holding. Where is everyone else? Did they...?"

Colombe blew out her breath. "We all made it. Somehow. A Minenwerfer stovepipe bomb, one of the big ones with 440 kilos of HE, detonated near Andraste and the impact of the fragments and concussion knocked her out. Her shields dropped and she took shrapnel damage to the limbs and torso, she might never walk again but she saved us. Delilah is sitting with her, Del got roughed up badly too. Ying, Ehren, Sabah, and Zamarad are at the cemetery nearby where some of those I served with rest. They needed to pay their respects." Colombe's voice had an edge that made it clear that anyone having issues with respects being paid to the dead would answer to her blade.

Medea closed her eyes and let the stress out of her torso. "Thank all the Gods for that. I have lost enough friends, and I have seen too many heroes die in the doing. I would not want to lose you. Any of you, even the ones I just met."

Colombe just nodded and hugged Toku tighter to her as the Masamune whimpered a little.

"I came here to let you know that we did a survey of all the major ward sites locking down Verdun and none of the others have a serious breach like we had here. I'd like you to stay nearby until after the 20th when the next attempt will come, just in case something breaks loose again, but all that I have to do is repair the lesser damage and weave them together." Medea nodded to Colombe. "As your Charms Professor, Miss du Chasteler, I give you not just top marks for casting a major ward in 1918, but a hundred and fifty points to Bellefeuille for heroism, creative and masterful use of magic, and leadership."

Colombe barked a laugh. "Too bad that the 1724 Cup standings are closed. Ahh... who won that year? I never found out after...." She made a snapping a stick motion with her hands. "You know how my time there ended."

"Bellefeuille actually won, thanks to Gabriel Potter's leadership. You cost them a hundred points, but he managed to rally your classmates for you, and they edged out a victory by...three points, I recall. Yes, Jeannette Delacroix put them over the top with her end of the year musical presentation in the singing contest." Medea spoke, remembering a shy young Muggleborn lady with the voice of an angel and determined expression mirroring that of Colombe making her remember Orpheus's music causing the very stones to weep.

Colombe gave a watery smile and blinked tears from her eyes. "I know how much she hated to sing, she confided in me about how her uncle the tavernkeeper beat her as a child to encourage her to sing for the customers. Her voice was that of an angel from Heaven though." The rapier sighed deeply as Norimune looked at her oldest daughter. "She had a bad case of hero-woship for me. So, I am glad that she followed my example and found it in herself to soar. On the ride home I was concentrating on how I had ruined my House down in the standings so I would think of other things than failing Papa. So we won in the end, then. Merci, Professor."

Medea nodded. "You won in the end, yes. Just like you won here."

Colombe nodded. "With your permission, I'll take us back tonight to Moulbaix to recuperate. We will stand in readiness... as ready we can be with our injuries if called upon."

Medea smiled. "About that, I have it on good authority that Repair Fluid works the same on your kind of spirits as they do on shipgirls."

Colombe hmmed. "Useful to know. Too bad I don't have any on hand."

"If you send me a portkey like what Ying used, I can get my hands on some and deliver it personally. Ying and Delilah both have my current owl address." Medea responded, already mentally composing the note to send to Georgios to arrange a release of some from the Hellenic Navy's stockpile.

"Bon. I have no issues with you having access to my home, Professor Aetios and I would like you to visit. I trust you."

Medea winced mentally behind her mask. You trust me now, my old student, but when you find out the truth will you trust me then?

-------------------------------

Castle Moulbaix, Belgium

May 9th, 2014


The flying carpet glided to a stop in front of Colombe's ancestral castle.

Barely had it stopped before a nervously twitching brunette girl dashed forward to embrace Ehren's bandaged avatar. "Ehren! Mother! Aunt Del! Toku! Big Sister Ying! Everyone came back!" Claire called happily as she cried tears of joy both with her avatar and her piano body playing an absolutely heartfelt emotional piano piece.
Spoiler: Homecoming

Ehren's bandaged arms embraced her beloved big sister and tears of mingled joy and sadness trickled from her shadowed eyes in turn.

Her wounded body and agonized spirit seemed to feel less burdened now.

For she had held the line.

She had not let the foe pass.

Her honor was true and faithful.

For through her sacrifice and suffering, that which she loved would remain unstained.


Softly, hesitantly, her lips opened and she whispered in Claire's ear. "I'm sorry that it took so long. I'm sorry that I had to leave your side, Claire. But I did what I must for you, Big Sister."

Claire nodded minutely and her arms tightened on Ehren as Kasuyu brought out the stretcher for Andraste and Delilah.

---------------------------------

Castle Moulbaix

May 10th, 2014


A half-ajar door silently opened in the predawn stillness and a dark-blonde head peeked in.

Inside on an antique wooden bed next to a Bosendorfer grand piano, two sisters were asleep in a tangle of arms and legs. Claire, dressed in her musical-print footie pajamas was clutching the slender blonde form of her sister Ehren who was drooling on Claire's shoulder. The girl serving as Claire's snuggly teddy bear was dressed in a pair of baggy leopard-print boxers and a T-shirt announcing that she was "cute but psycho but cute."
Spoiler: Ehren's Sleepwear
b09ea40cb181c558bbf821b9a9feda8a--pyjamas-cute-cute-pjs.jpg


Wei Ying turned to Kasuyu and raised a finger to her bandaged face. With his help, she pulled out her cell phone to take a blackmail photograph.

Silently closing the door, she looked at him and whispered. "Let's let them sleep."

Kasuyu nodded. "The Mistress and Miss Toku are also asleep and should not be disturbed. They are comforting each other by their presence."

Ying nodded and leaned on the axe for support as she made her way downstairs to the kitchen. "Agreed. Since we are the first up, what now?"

Kasuyu laughed. "I shall be making the breakfast then. For Ehren, she likes potato pancakes with fresh fruit the most, for the Mistress, a Quire of Paper. What do you enjoy?"

Ying sat at the kitchen table. "Sweet congee rice porridge with peameal bacon and youtiao crullers to dip in it. Alas I shall have to rely on your skills." She held up her bandaged and splinted hands.

The axe rumbled a laugh. "All I need from you is the recipe. Miss Toku enjoys steamed rice for breakfast, so I have the rice and can easily make crullers. I bought Canadian Bacon after finding out about you."

Ying closed her one good eye and leaned back in the chair. "You are a lifesaver, Kasuyu."

"So the Mistress has said many many times upon returning home." Kasuyu lit the stove.

-----------------------------

Castle Moulbaix

May 15th, 2014


Andraste gave a full body shiver and arched her back in soul-deep pleasure at the feel of the bathtub full of repair fluid that she had been lowered into. "Ohhhh.... Oh St. George!! That feels amazing!"

Sabah leaned over the side and grasped her friend's hand on her one good arm. "It does?"

The shield nodded as her torn and shattered legs began to regenerate with amazing speed. "You have No... Oh RIGHT THERE... idea, Sabah."

The bandaged scimitar nodded. "I eagerly await my turn."

A sparkle in Andraste's eyes and a quick glance around the otherwise deserted bathroom were the only warning that the last of the Ḥashashiyan had before her friend's grip on her hand turned into an iron vice.

With a yelp, Sabah was pulled bodily into the repair fluid. "ANDRAAASTEEE!!"

The shield giggled evilly and expanded the tub and fluid with a pair of Engorgement charms as Sabah shook wet hair out of her eyes. "This will ruin my clothes." The scimitar said with no heat in the accusation.

"Hush you, they are loaners anyway, and this is payback for the prank with the glasses. How does it feel?" Andraste clasped Sabah to her torso with arms no longer too damaged to be used.

"{By the Beard of the Prophet, I am in paradise....}" Sabah moaned in her native Persian and shuddered as her own wounds began to close and she dipped her scimitar in the fluid to rest on Andraste's shield.

"{Told you.}" Andraste said smugly in her best Juuchi voice.
 
[Healer Haruto] Yin & Del supervise 1
Harry Leferts

Leaning against the side of the boat, Del considered the young man piloting it along and internally nodded after sharing a look with her... niece, and that was still taking some getting some used to, 'Yes, at least there is someone here doing some good.'

For her part, Ying was already running through plans in her head before she glanced at the island and frowned a bit. There was some green here and there, but not much, "Where are the trees?" At the looks, she waved at the island itself, "I can see brush and some grass, but not much else."

Grimacing, Haruto turned to her, though he always kept one eye on the sea as they puttered around, "How much do you know about this Reserve, really?"

That made the Canadian frown slightly, "Not much besides it is an old Reserve and has been active since the Meiji. Also, it is the only island one left due to the war." Her eyes narrowed a bit at the slight flinch from Haruto. For most, they would have missed it, but not her. And from the slightly glance from Del, she knew that the American had caught it as well, 'I wonder why he flinched at that?'

Meanwhile, Naomi who had not noticed hummed, "Besides what has been mentioned, the island is about six miles long and three at its widest point. As well, the population of... residents is about nine thousand."

Both Aurors looked at her in some shock before Haruto nodded, "Hai. All of that is correct. Now, when the Reserve was established, there was forests on the island. But you had a few thousand Yokai dropped here without any shelter. So... they cut down trees for wood. And for fuel as well for various things. The clear cut areas lost topsoil due to erosion as typhoons often passed by, which affected crop land and made them look for more."

Already able to tell how this was going to end, Del grimaced, "And in the end, they did not have any real forest at all. Or topsoil for farming."

Slowly, the Healer sighed, "Hai. They've tried, but... one of the methods used like other Reserves is to make use of night soil. Which carries health issues as you can imagine."

All three women had looks of disgust on their faces, but Naomi nodded, "I can imagine."

With a small shrug, Haruto shook his head, "Granted, they've been trying to bring back the soil through other methods such as compost, but the process is slow and the island can't grow enough food." He gestured out to the sea, "They used to rely on the ocean at one time. But now? With the war?" Sighing, the Healer shook his head, "Problematic at the least."

Thoughtful, Ying nodded some, "Which explains the saw dust you bring." Getting a nod, she was silent for a few moments before speaking up, "You mentioned a cholera epidemic here, how bad?"

Haruto grimaced at that and took a deep breath, but answered just the same, "Bad. I would say that most of the Yokai had suffered from it by the end. And I... was the only one among the Reserve personnel that was involved in trying to handle it. Granted, I'm the Healer and the only trained healthcare professional."

Unnoticed by him, the lone Diet representative had clenched her hand hard enough that her knuckles were white. But none of that had shown on her face, "And yet you managed."

Snorting, Haruto looked down, "Yeah, by the skin of our teeth. And it wasn't me alone." Turning, he fixed them with a look, "Despite what some people claim or think, Yokai are far from stupid animals. They're people as intelligent as you or me. Some even more so. And they helped once I showed them what to do. One group worked at making the solution to keep the ill hydrated. Water, electrolytes, and mashed banana. To keep them hydrated and continue to get nutrients into them. Another group had large cauldrons filled with boiling water and bleach to clean sheets and the like. And another bunch basically looked after the ill, keeping them fed, hydrated, and clean. My duty was just to take care of those who were too far gone for anything but magic though I helped out with other cases where I could."

Only smiling slightly, Del nodded in respect, "And you managed it."

Bitter laughter was not what she expected, "Yeah, I suppose I did... as much as I failed." Looking at her, there was tears in Haruto's eyes, "Do you know how it feels to be holding an infant, not even a year old, and see her beautiful eyes close for the last time? To feel her last breath as it leaves her tiny body? All the while her parents are holding onto you, wailing and begging for you to save her? To pull off a miracle... that is beyond you?" Taking their silence as an answer, he shook his head, "Her name was Kasumi. Otonari Kasumi, and I held her as she died after which I... cleaned her body as gently as I could and wrapped it in a clean blanket. Then... I helped dig her grave. I can still hear the sound of grave dirt as it was put over her. And she was just one of two hundred and thirty eight souls I failed." Now the tears were spilling down his cheeks, "Each one I cleaned the bodies and helped bury them. Each one a failure. So when you ask how bad it was..." Haruto gestured at the island, "There's your answer. Lonely graves."

Each of the three women were silent, but a little wet eyed.

Gesturing at the island still, Haruto let out another bitter laugh, "I came here to help people. Because I'm a healer and that is my calling. Since coming here, I've had to deal with cuts, bruises, sprains, broken bones, colds, flus... infections.. tuberculosis... even an small outbreak of bubonic plague in one of the smaller villages. Thank the Kami for No-Maj antibiotics and such. I try, but sometimes... I fail." Chuckling weakly, he looked at them, "I've been woken up in the middle of the night because some poor elderly Yokai's heart gave out and they sent for me... only for it to be far too late by the time I arrive. And then all I can do is... make sure that they are made ready and help dig their grave because I failed." He shook his head, "They don't teach you that in Healer School... they don't."

Deeply sighing, the Healer turned away and wiped at his face furiously but not saying anything more.

None of the other three said anything, they just let him compose himself and when he apologized, they waved it off.

Fifteen minutes later, the Kudagitsune pulled into the small cove where the main village was. Looking over the ramshackle buildings and huts, Naomi grimaced, 'It is one thing reading about it in reports... seeing it though...' Glancing at the now recovered Haruto, she cleared her throat, "Some of the personnel mention that you live in the village?"

With a hum, the Healer nodded, "Hai." Pointing in a direction, he smiled, "You see that hut just over there?"

Slowly nodding, Del muttered an old Lakota spell that sharpened her vision and let her see it more clearly though she noted that Naomi brought out some omniculars as did Ying. It was rather similar to the other huts around, somewhat ramshackle which made the American frown, "I do, is your house behind it?"

Lightly laughing, Haruto shook his head a bit, as if waiting to see their reaction, "No, that is my house, the hut." At their stunned looks, he shrugged, "I'm not going to live any differently than they do. Besides which, I need to be close and accessible if they need to wake me up at night or if I am at dinner or breakfast. So it works well enough."

Ying... had an odd look on her face, though it looked like her expression softened a touch, but nodded just the same, "I see..."

It was not long after when they pulled up to the dock to see a large Oni there with a scar over one eye. His gaze hardened a bit as he looked at the three women before turning to Haruto with a raised eyebrow. In reply, Haruto shrugged some, "They wanted a lift to the main village."

Chuckling, the Oni caught the rope thrown him and tied up the boat, "I see, oh well." He then made a motion and a crane was pushed into view before a platform was lowered. When Haruto made a motion, it stopped and the Oni hopped down, "Well, let's get everything offloaded then."

Before the Healer could reply, Ying spoke up, "If you don't mind, I can help."

For a moment, the Oni gave her a suspicious look but nodded. Just the same though, the Yokai acted as if Ying was barely there along with the other two females, instead, he turned to Haruto and chatted with him as they brought out crates, "Looks like you brought back quite a bit this time, Haruto-Sama."

Rubbing the back of his neck as he glanced at the Oni, Haruto gave a shrug before securing the crates to the platform, "Well, you know how it is."

Softly snorting, the Oni grinned, "True enough, I suppose. Still, you're always bringing what we need here, unlike some."

With a glance at Del and the others, Haruto coughed, "Um..."

That only made the Yokai grin, "Heh." Ruffing the teen's hair, he lifted another crate, "Might want to check in with Hachimitsu-San when you can now that you're back."

Eyebrow raised as he letter one of the smaller boxes on, the Healer frowned, "Really, Kenshin-San? Why?"

Amused, Kenshin snickered a bit, "Chikako-Chan has been driving her a bit spare since you left. Asking how long before you get back and waiting up where she can see the sea. Mikage-San and Mie-San caught her late last night nearly falling over asleep trying to keep an eye out for you."

Groaning, Haruto pinched his nose, "Oh, that is just great. Makes me feel guilty like nothing else."

Laughs met him from the various Yokai as they teased him about having a girl waiting for him. Or breaking maiden hearts by running off in the night. One of them, a Jurogumo who helped bring up the platform with boxes on it grinned and waved them off with her free hand, "Now guys, you know that Haruto-Sama cannot help it."

In return, Haruto rolled his eyes at them, "Yeah, yeah... laugh it up. You bunch know that it is not like that for Chikako-Chan."

Before any of them could continue their teasing, Naomi muttered to herself, "Chikako-Chan...?"

Almost immediately, everything went silent besides the crane creaking. The Yokai gave her as well as Ying and Del glares, as if insulted by her even listening in. With a sigh, Haruto turned towards them, in particular Naomi, "Do you remember a few weeks back? About how a Nekomata child was grabbed by an Auror right outside a shipgirl base?"

Wincing, both from the glares and that piece of information, Naomi nodded, "Yes, I have heard of that incident. I take it..." Getting a nod from the Healer, she sighed, "Of course."

Eyebrows furrowing, Ying looked between them, "What are you talking about? Shipgirl base?"

It escaped no one's notice that the Yokai were darkly amused at how dismayed Naomi was at this being brought up. However, Haruto came to the rescue, "I am not sure how it is in the MACUSA, or in Canada, but Aurors here are told that shipgirl bases and their surroundings are no go areas for obvious reasons."

Slowly, Del gave a nod, "Of course, but..." It was then that she realized something, "Which means that they're likely to become hiding spots."

The Healer simply shrugged, "Don't know or care." That got him nods and smiles from the Yokai, "But one Auror-Trainee apparently did and thought so too. He decided to stake the base on Sasebo out and caught Chikako-Chan, a ten year old Nekomata, while she was Dumpster diving right in front of the Military Police before running. So, of course, a few hours later she was dropped off here."

Grunting, the lone Sarugami jerked his thumb at Haruto, "Haruto-Sama took her in to make sure that she's cared for since he shares his hut anyways. And now the Little Kitten doesn't want to be anywhere else due to his kindness." The Yokai then gave him a nod of respect, "He is a good man after all."

Eyebrows raised, both Ying and Del, as well as Naomi due to her experience, picked up on the tone as well as what was unsaid. They stated he was a 'good man'. Not human, but as if he was one of them. Unsaid, of course, was that others were not 'good men' at all.

Of course, that was when Haruto spoke up, "Come on guys, that sounds so weird."

Leaning against the crane, the Jurogumo snorted, "And yet, true. You showed her kindness that first night by bringing her into a warm home, Haruto-Sama. Is it any wonder that she grew attached to you? Can't blame her in the slightest."

His next words caused the two Aurors and one Diet Bureaucrat to freeze, "She needed some attention, especially since she had infected wounds and worms in her gut." Scowling, Haruto twitched a bit, "Like that one massive tapeworm I had to flush out."

Upon hearing that bit of information, Del and Ying opened their mouths. But they were beaten to it as Naomi spoke in a low, dangerous tone, "I'm sorry, Healer Hayate, did you just say that she had infected wounds and tapeworms?"

Softly snorting, Haruto turned and faced her before ticking off on his fingers, "Her hair was absolutely crawling with lice and fleas, which took days of treatment to get rid of. She had no less then ten cuts that were infected and five scrapes that were. Also, a minor lung as well as ear infection that needed treatment. And there was at least one three foot long tapeworm in her intestines that I had to flush out as well as several other worms." At their stares, he flushed and shrugged, "Chikako-Chan is a strong child."

A muscle twitched in Naomi's cheek, but it was not because she was happy and smiling. Quite the opposite as shown when she lowered her voice to a near growl, "Do you mean to tell me that they sent an ill and injured Yokai child to a Reserve without giving her a checkup or treatment...?"

Blinking, the Healer frowned, "I... well, they did give her a checkup, but no treatment as she was only in custody for a few hours..."

If anything, that made the twitch in Naomi's cheek increase while spawning one in her eyebrow, "I... see." A snort made her look up to where the Oni was watching, "What?"

Eyes narrowing, Kenshin sneered a bit, "As if it is a real surprise. Or did you honestly expect any different from those people?"

Frowning, Haruto looked at him, "Kenshin-San, you do realize that I am one of those people."

However, the Oni only looked at him for a few seconds before turning back to work, "No, you're not. Trust me on that."

The other Yokai added in their own nods and returned to offloading and, once the last trunk was removed, all of them left the boat and climbed up onto the dock to find the Yokai already opening the boxes and crates besides some set aside. Walking over to one of the trunks, Haruto gave a nod as he pulled out his wand, "Here, give me a second..." Waving his wand, a stream of boards came out and landed, stacked on a wagon being pulled by a Ushi-Oni. Just one of several actually, and once it was done, one of the Itachi there walked alongside it as it took the wagon into the village. Seeing the expression on Del's as well as Naomi's face, Haruto shrugged some, "They're taking them to one of the warehouses here to be stored until needed for repairs."

With that said, the Healer turned to another trunk and opened it. From inside, he brought out wooden blocks that resembled presswood. After he had stacks of ten, he would unshrink them until they were each the size of a large phone book, and then levitated them into different carts ready to be filled. Watching, Del tilted her head a little, "Are those the fuel blocks you mentioned made out of sawdust?"

Glancing at her, Haruto gave a nod, "Hai, each one is about two pounds of sawdust. They work pretty well as fuel to be honest, several hours worth when burned. So people can cook properly or use them to heat their baths."

Softly snorting, the Jurogumo was helping to remove branches from another trunk that she passed to other Yokai. Those branches too, went to various carts to be piled high, "Not just them." With a shrug, she shook her head, "But hot baths are nice."

Lips twitching, Haruto chuckled a bit before pointing at one group of crates, "Got some cloth as well as old clothes for you, Ayane-San. It was a nice haul this time."

Quickly checking, the Jorogumo's eyes lit up before she walked over and pulled Haruto into a hug, neither of them noticing how Naomi as well as Del and Ying stiffened, though others did and froze as well. But then, Ayane pulled away and smiled some as she shook her head, "Thank you, Haruto-Sama. You have no idea what it means to be able to have enough clothes here..."

Noticing the stares from the three women from outside the island, she glared a bit before going back to work.

That was followed by her going back to work and soon enough, all the items except for a small pile were gone.

Said pile of crates were placed into a small cart which Haruto was about to wave his wand at when a blur shot out from close by. It took everything for Del and Ying not to bring out their wands until the blur resolved into a small, green haired Nekomata hugging Haruto tightly, face buried in his stomach. All of them could barely hear the soft voice of the Yokai as it spoke up, "You came back..."

With a sigh, Haruto shook his head, "I told you that I would, Chikako-Chan. And now I'm back and won't leave for a month, alright?"

Pulling back some, she looked up at him and blinked her eyes, "Okay..." Moments later, the Healer placed his hands between her cat-like ears on her head and rubbed back and forth, making her close her eyes, "Nya... nya... nya... nyaaaa~"

After he stopped though, she noticed Del, Ying, and Naomi looking somewhat amused. Seeing them watching them, she narrowed her eyes into a near glare and shuffled so she was hidden somewhat by Haruto's body. Patting her head, and getting her attention, Haruto shook her head, "Just some visitors from outside, Chikako-Chan. They're inspecting the Reserve is all."

Chikako still frowned and mumbled a bit, all three women wincing, "I don't like them."

Sighing, the Healer shook his eyes before looking back at the visitors, "Sorry about this."

However, Del just smiled sadly and made a motion with her hand, "You don't need to be sorry, it is perfectly understandable." Looking back at Chikako, who shuffled a bit while holding Haruto tighter, she internally chuckled, 'I can see what they meant now.'

With a slight nod, Naomi gave him a slightly strained smile, "Would it be possible for us to inspect your clinic? And talk with you more there?"

Frowning, Haruto eyed her for a few moments before sighing, "Sure, to be honest I was heading there anyways to drop these items off since the soap and shampoo are in some of these."

And, with that, he animated the cart and began to walk towards his clinic with Chikako tightly holding him, though sometimes she looked back at the three women with suspicious looks. Not helped by those Yokai who had overheard now also giving them narrowed eyes...
 
Ties That Bind [Verdun aftermath]
Yellowhammer

Ties That Bind

Castle Moulbaix, Belgium

16 May, 2014


Norimune sighed happily as she finally got out of the Repair Fluid bath that she had been soaking in and resolved mentally to install one of these in her home at the earliest opportunity.

Her home...

That thought brought a scowl to her lips as she got dressed in the clothing that she had gotten from her farmhouse after her return from Verdun.

Where was her home, truly?

Unexpectedly her lips quirked as she remembered faces, voices, and names from her past. People who she had fought against, fought alongside, loved, laughed with, cried for, and finally they had faded like the dew on the grass save in her memories.

Ono Ichiro. Julie d'Aubigny. Mei Xian. Benjamin Franklin. Joao Ferriera. Praanvi Dayal. Sally Gray. Owen Moye. Niichaad. Jezabel de Breuil. Hans von Fuchsholz. Maartje ten Harmsel. Benjamin Hornigold.


People whose number now included the ten spirits who had stood alongside her through one of the worst and most desperate battles in her long life. People who had shed mingled blood alongside her, who had saved her as she had saved them on their march up Le Mort Homme in the hell of Verdun.

People who were worthy of her steel, just as she was worthy of theirs.

Masamune-no-Tokunotakai. Colombe d'Aubigny du Chasteler. Ehren du Chasteler. Wei Ying. Delilah de Breuil. Zamarad. Sabah bint Alhasan. Nightbane. Tsukiakari-no-Suzu. Andraste.


Her hand paused on the door to the room to the Vanishing Cabinet. A door that would take her back to Japan.

Back to the safe sterile life of a trapped animal locked in a cage of her own pains and fears forged over five centuries of life. A life that would not be worth the living.
Spoiler: Unrepentant

For long moments that hand rested on the wood then lifted.

"Fuckit, it's not like Goldfish-for-brains will notice if I'm a week late heading to Japan." Norimune muttered to herself as she turned away from the door.

Familiar voices from a half-open door to her left as she headed aimlessly down a corridor caused her ears to twitch and she poked her head inside. The room inside had displays of weapons and hunting trophies on the walls between several bookcases. Norimune's eyes were drawn to a set of crossed Austrian and French battle flags in pride of place on the far wall as she looked around. Colombe and Tokunotakai both looked up from where they had been examining a collection of maps on a side table at the sound of the door opening.

Something flickered deep in Colombe's eyes and she waved to Norimune. "Come in please. I was just satisfying To-chan's curiosity."

Norimune walked inside across a tiger-skin rug and nodded respectfully to them. The Masamune was still a prissy bitch, true, but she was a blooded prissy bitch veteran who could be relied upon in the crunch now and her oldest daughter was almost as good in a fight as she and her sisters were. "Oh?"

Toku returned the nod gracefully. "I had asked Co-chan what her first big battle was, you see."

Norimune paused, realizing that she knew next to nothing about her oldest daughter who stood there as an almost perfect duplicate of her mother Julie d'Aubigny. "What was it?" she asked curiously.

Colombe shrugged. "Depends on how you define it, honestly. I started out my career as a mercenary in Italy in 1726 working for Genoa, and first saw blood then. At the time, that was a big enough battle in my eyes even if now I see that it was just a pillow fight between two villages. Probably the first real battle I was in was Changama in 1767. I had just arrived in India and was working for the British East India Company when the sultan of Mysore attacked the outpost where we were at." She laughed. "I was looking for you and thought that you were from India, so headed to the Orient. Eventually."

Norimune nodded. "So what's the story with the flags?" Toku gave Colombe a curious look and the rapier's resistance visibly wilted.

Colombe gestured, summoning a tumbler of brandy and then three snifters. "I'll want a stiff drink in me for this one." After pouring brandy for everyone, downing her snifter rapidly, and then refilling it, she resumed. "I had been in India working for various factions until 1791 when I got word from Europe."

Norimune frowned as she made connections and sipped her liquor. "The Revolution?"

"Oui. My younger half-sister Marie-Claire du Chasteler who I was," Colombe took a large gulp of the brandy and continued quietly, "exceptionally close to had married the French aristocrat Gustave Visart de Bury et de Bocarmé."

Colombe paused and took a deep, shuddering breath as Toku hugged her gently. Norimune winced as her own memories of the Terror reared their ugly heads from an unquiet grave. "Shit. She was targeted as an aristo then." Norimune's voice was flat.

Colombe nodded solemnly as tears trickled down her cheeks. "I reached the plaza in time to see the knife fall and her blood spatter the face of her grandson who was next to be guillotined." The rapier's voice was a whisper as Toku's hug tightened.

"Those motherfuckers. I had my own run-ins with them." Norimune said savagely as she scowled.

"I had promised our oldest brother François Gabriel that I would save her...." Colombe sobbed brokenly. "All I could do was save her orphaned grandson. All my skill, all my power, and I couldn't save my baby sister."

Norimune hesitantly placed a hand on Colombe's heaving shoulder and squeezed. "You saved someone. That is not nothing." The nodachi spoke. "Trust me, it matters."

Colombe nodded jerkily. "Merci." She took several moments to collect herself. "I was wanted by the law then for using magic to save little Julien Visart de Bocarmé and deliver him to my brother. I have the warrant from Robespierre sentencing me to death as a 'whore of an aristo and a traitor to France' framed in the library in fact. The ICW also wanted me for unauthorized magic use and after a family discussion, it was agreed that I would unsummon my avatar and serve as the sword of my nephew Johann Gabriel as he served in the Austrian Army as an officer. I'm bound to my blade as you are, but if my avatar moves a certain distance away, it fades and then can reappear with an effort of will. Del and Jackie are the same way, and I suspect Ying is too."

Norimune nodded thoughtfully and refilled Colombe's brandy glass. "That's a damn clever way to hide since they thought you were just a witch according to Del. So the Austrian flag is..?"

"His regimental standard, yes. We took the eagle of the 6th Légère at Leipzig in hand to hand combat when we broke them." Colombe spoke with pride, her eyes distant as she grinned smugly in memory. "After Napoleon was sent to Elba, Johann and I carried it home to this place of honor and then I enchanted it with preservation charms before I sailed to India to resume my hunt for you."

Norimune nodded and the silence lingered for a while as the three blades of Hachiman drank brandy and reflected on their experiences. Finally the Unrepentant Blade stirred herself. "You never knew your mother, did you?"

Colombe shook her head. "She died giving birth to me. When I was a girl, I was just told that she was Papa's mistress who had died of childbirth. Later, when Papa told me the truth of my parentage, he was in his final hours."

Norimune sighed and gave a unseeing look at the battle flags, then a cocky, smug smile flickered around her lips. "I'll tell you what. You grab another bottle of this brandy and I'll tell you about Julie."

--------------------------------

Castle Moulbaix

21st May, 2014


Medea of Colchis weighed the now expended Portkey in her hand thoughtfully. She would recognize Delilah de Breuil's magical signature anywhere and Del having a ready-made stockpile of Portkeys to the home of Colombe du Chasteler had implications.

How long have they known each other, I wonder?

With that she pocketed the gold Belgian franc piece and walked up the marble steps in the great hall toward the sound of piano music from above her.

Wei Ying's familiar face, now unbandaged, appeared from a door on the upstairs balcony. "Hello Maddy!"

Medea smiled and responded in fluent Cantonese "{Hello to you too, Ying. Verdun is contained, the wards are holding strong. So I have an explanation for you.}" I hope....

Ying smiled. "{I'll let the others know then join you in the study. Ah, go left through this door and straight down the hall, it's the door on the right at the bend in the hall. If in doubt, just follow the music.}"

Medea nodded, then ducked out of the way as a giggling young spider-girl dashed down the hallway with a second young girl with raccoon ears and a tail chasing her. "Tag, you're it!"

She sighed, closing her eyes as she remembered her own children. Damn Hera.

With that she reached the indicated door and opened it. Her fingers twitched almost automatically at the prickle of enchantment from several of the tribal masks hung on the walls. and some of the books in the bookcase that was clearly warded and enchanted next to the desk.

Claire and Ehren were playing a four-hand piano duet on the far side of the room, hair of pale gold shining in the morning sunlight illuminating them as hair of ebony drank it up.
Spoiler: Sibling Love

Toku stretched in her chair at the fireplace as she placed a bookmark in the leather-bound book that she had been reading and looked at Medea. Delilah and Colombe were playing chess on a small board and also looked over.

Medea stepped inside the room, feeling everyone's eyes on her. "Verdun is secured for now." A mass exhalation of tension sounded. "And once Ying arrives I will give that explanation that I owe you all."

Colombe nodded, then glanced at the board and tipped over her king with a fingertip. "I never could beat you Del. Do you want a drink, Professor Aetios?"

Medea nodded. "Yes please. This will be difficult."

Ying stepped inside and closed the door before finding a seat. "I let Tsu, and Nightbane know. Sabah, Norimune, and Andraste are out talking a walk in the village."

Colombe opened the brandy cabinet as Delilah wandered to the fireplace and gestured with her wand at it. An ornate ring in a flame pattern with a large orange imperial topaz and diamonds sparkled on Delilah's finger with it's own fiery light. With a whoosh, the logs piled in the fireplace ignited and the flame formed itself into the shape of Zamarad as she stepped out of it. "Marhabaan, Delilah."
Spoiler: Del's Ring
x.jpg


Delilah kissed the Ifrit, then sat beside her on the hearth, holding her hand. Ying sat in the fireplace chair next to Delilah in turn as Colombe began to distribute brandy to everyone.

Medea looked curiously at the Ifrit, then sipped the brandy, enjoying the rich taste. "Right. You all deserve the truth, although I would appreciate it if this information goes no further."

Colombe nodded and sat next to the piano. "I promise to keep your secrets as I keep my own, Professor Aetios." The other spirits agreed with a collection of nods and approving words.

Medea took a deep breath.

Nothing for it...


"I told you that I had been to Beauxbatons before. I was among those witnessing when the foundation stone of the main hall at Beauxbatons was laid." Colombe blinked in surprise and leaned forward with interest. "I have had many faces and many names over my long life, but the name I was born with in the kingdom of Colchis on the Black Sea as a girl during what is called the Bronze Age is Medea."

For several seconds there was complete and utter silence. Finally Colombe spoke. "The Medea from the myths? The ones with Jason and the Argonauts? The Medea who was the niece of Circe? That Medea?"

Medea braced herself and nodded. "Yes, that Medea. I am... was the wife of Jason, helped him gain the Golden Fleece, and am Circe's niece."

She expected betrayal, anger, accusations. It was no more than she had received when the truth came out before.

She didn't get it.

Colombe dissolved in hysterical laughter, tears streaming down her cheeks as she pounded the table.

Delilah focused on Colombe. "Sis, what is it?"

Colombe gasped out between helpless giggles. "I.... pulled... a Jackie... with... her aunt."

Delilah's eyes flew wide open, and then she, Ying, Toku, and Zamarad all started to laugh helplessly

"DAMMIT SIS!" Delilah howled as she toppled sideways with tears of mirth in her eyes. "Not you too!!"

Ehren blinked in confusion, and looked at Claire, who shrugged and began to play Samuel Barber's ballet music from Medea. "Mutti, was ist los?"

Colombe gasped out. "I... had a schoolgirl crush on her...." Colombe paused for breath and then continued between chuckles. "I fantasized about her giving me 'special tutoring in love' constantly for years in my room at night." Colombe wiped tears from her eyes as Medea gave her a shocked look and blushed scarlet. Colombe barely finished before a fresh round of giggles. "And then later I slept with her aunt..."

Medea blinked in confusion, then remembered Circe complaining drunkenly to her two centuries ago about a ex-lover calling herself Colombe. This girl had not just run out on her after finding out who she was, but had stolen a batch of Felix Felicis in the process, and was protected by another deity so she could not even be transfigured properly into a rat.

As Ehren's lips twitched uncontrollably in a smile, Medea began to laugh herself. Truly fate did have an odd sense of humor.
 
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