Harry Potter & the Shipgirls

[darthcourt10]

Yellowhammer

A Belgian Butterknife's Japanese Vacation (XI)

14 July 2014

Lantern Kamakura Hotel, Kamakura, Japan
Spoiler: The Butterknife Morning After

Colombe smiled smugly at Ehren and Claire as she handed bottles of green tea to her girls. "There you go, caffeine doses for the lazy slug-a-beds."

Claire yawned as she took hers and popped the top. "Thank you Mother." She covered her mouth as she yawned again then continued, "how did you wake up so early?"

Beside her sister, Ehren gave a surly glare in the direction of the mid-morning sun before she grimly drank her morning wake-up beverage.

Colombe grinned smugly, "Mother's little secret. An ancient and noble technique developed over three centuries of late nights and early mornings. Did you enjoy the jazz club?"

Claire nodded happily as she smiled. "Oh yes, it had such energy and life. Even if I had trouble trying to foxtrot." Hr smile faded, "I'm just not a good dancer since I'm so heavy on my feet."

Colombe gave her daughter a gentle smile and ruffled her brunette hair, "it is OK, dear. You have trouble dancing just like Kasuyu has trouble playing piano and I cannot sing that well. You had fun and that's what matters. Or you could be like Ehren and have trouble with mornings before coffee..." She finished with a teasing smirk at the Prussian Zombie as Claire giggled.

"Mutti!!" Ehren wailed as she shot a look of betrayal at her mother.

Colombe then gave Ehren a hair ruffle. "There there, just a little teasing of my youngest. You enjoyed yourself a bit once you unbent enough to dance, ja?"

Ehren blushed visibly as she finished her tea. "I did a little. It was certainly energetic." The sound of Colombe's phone ringing interrupted what she was going to say next.

Colombe grabbed her phone. "Allô!"

Tsukiakari responded, "Hello Colombe. Master Harry and I are back in Yokosuka, and would like to meet you now if you are free."

Colombe's smile lit her face up. "Most certainly, where and when do you wish to meet myself and the girls? I can call Toku to come along too."
-----------------

In Harry's house, Tsukiakari leaned back in her chair with a smug smile on her face. "How about the statue of the Kaigun-Gensui in Mikasa Park in two hours? I will be there along with Juuchi, and some other friends of Harry. You are in Kamakura, yes?"

Colombe spoke. "Oh yes, but I have made transport arrangements to get us there. It will be myself, my daughters Claire and Ehren, and Tokunotakai. If you would be so kind as to make lunch reservations, it would be appreciated."

Tsukiakari chuckled, "I'll handle things. It will be good to see you again, and in less trying circumstances."

"Oui, certainement! I shall start the ball rolling here and see you in two hours. Adieu." Colombe said before ending the call.

Tsukiakari looked over to see a giggling Kensho with wet hair flee the bathroom with a grinning Harry in hot pursuit with a towel to dry her off. The kyo gunto shook her head fondly. We shall need all two hours to get ready, it seems. She fingered the coupon for a new piano lounge that she had just gotten in the mail and hummed thoughtfully.

With that she punched in a number on her phone. "Hello, Catherine! Can you make it to Mikasa Park in two hours? The young lady you wished to meet will be there with her family."

"Merci, Tsukiakari."
-----------------

Meanwhile in Kamakura, Colombe smiled and looked at her daughters as they entered her room at the hotel. "You should make yourselves presentable to meet Msr. Potter. He is someone we need to put our best foot forward for, after all."

Ehren frowned slightly at the tone in her mother's voice. "Mutti, are you trying to match-make us?"

Colombe bit her lip and spoke thoughtfully. "In a sense, I suppose. That would be one way to have the debt I owe Ian and Lyra redeemed, by having my blood bind to their family line. However, that is only if there is attraction and affection between you and him. I shall never have either of you act as a pawn or a token in a loveless marriage. Papa gave my sisters the private right to approve of the choices that he arranged for them and insured that not only high birth and breeding, but also quality of character was paramount in their spouses. I can do nothing less than he did for my daughters."

Ehren then stood up and hugged her mother. "Thank you, Mutti. It is greatly appreciated."

Claire chimed in, "Yes, thank you Mother."

Colombe hugged back. "Now I shall just notify Toku-chan of our plans. Expecto Patronem!" She waved her hand and a white dove formed from thin air in front of her. "Notify To-chan that we shall be meeting Harry Potter and friends in two hours at Mikasa Park in Yokosuka for lunch after we meet him and his family. I plan to depart in half of an hour in the rental car that I arranged and would appreciate her advice as to how to get there."

The dove flew out the window and headed to the Hachimangu as Colombe turned to her wardrobe.
-----------------

Mikasa Park, Yokosuka, Japan
Spoiler: A Friendship Carried Forward

Colombe parked the rental van and looked over her shoulder at the girls in the back seat. "Yes, we are there now. I told you that I was not lost and would get us there."

Ehren's lips twitched as she unbuckled herself. "Just by taking the 'scenic route' through Yokohama, Mutti. Just as intended, ja?" The dagger's tone was deadly dry. "I have already texted Tsukiakari that we have finally made it to the park."

Claire laughed musically and Toku giggled as Colombe pouted. "Not my fault that the signs were confusing!"

"There there, Co-chan," Tokunotakai said as she opened the passenger-side door, "better late then never and I would have done equally poorly if I were to drive around Belgium for the first time."

Colombe subsided and hopped out, and began to walk toward the looming bulk of the most famous pre-Dreadnought battleship in existence. "Now where...AHA!" She pointed to the bronze statue of Admiral Togo Heihachiro. "There they are!"
Spoiler: Harry's Escorts

At the base Colombe could see a messy haired young man speaking to a smiling silver haired girl a few years older with her hair covered by a sailor hat and dressed in a nice black and dark blue dress. On the other side was a short haired brunette Japanese girl in a white and green dress with a happy smile on her face as she held Harry's hand. Her aunt Juuchi was leaning against the statue's plinth with a smug smirk, while a plainly dressed European woman with hair of bright gold smiled gently as she spoke with a young child with messy silver-gray hair who was pointing to the Mikasa. Finally Tsukiakari was returning to the group with her arms full of cones of shaved ice.

Colombe stepped forward and curtsied in greeting. Her hands found the sides of her dark green belle epoque silk dress from 1894 automatically as she had been trained in her long-distant youth. Her crystal blue eyes met Harry Potter's green eyes as she spoke with deep emotion. "Bonjour, Monseuir Harry Potter. I am Marchioness Colombe d'Aubigny du Chasteler-Muramasa, and a close friend of your great grandparents Ian and Lyra Potter whom I was greatly honored to know."

 

[darthcourt10]

NotHimAgain

"Any luck yet?"

Pyrrhus forced down a sarcastic reply, doing his damnedest to hold his attention to the sealed window. "Don't distract him," the old man's voice came from behind them—it was creepy how he did that. "Whatever it is that Miss Diehl did to the window cannot have been simple."

"Grrrr!" Maculatum screeched from somewhere behind him. "I knew that she was a creep! Just wait, when I get my hands on her I'll… I'll… I'll use her bones for potions ingredients!"

"Quiet!" Pyrrhus snapped, and she subsided, still muttering horrible threats under her breath.

"I still say we should try blasting our way out again."

"Because that worked so well the last time we tried it."

Perez jogged into the room. "Any luck on this end? We're not getting anything over by the front door."

The group was silent, which Pyrrhus found an odd humor in. "No," he repeated.

Perez groaned, rubbing his eyelids. "Lovely. Does the discipline look African to you? I don't think that it's an original spell."

"Hell if I know. It's just too complicated to deal with," Pyrrhus grumbled.

"What about those talismans?"

Maculatum scowled. "I swear that one tried to eat me." Perez blinked in confusion. "It did! I swear it did!"

Pyrrhus ground his forehead against the door. "Look, could all of you just let me focus?"

A loud ting resounded down the halls and into the room. Perez hopped in place, alert, then frowned.

"Okay," Pyrrhus sighed, finally accepting that he wouldn't be able to get anything done until these idiots left him alone, "what was that?"

"That was half the signal that they'd gotten the door open," Perez replied. Pyrrhus rolled his eyes.

"Maybe they got bored and decided to mess with your head."

Perez shook his head. "No, they wouldn't. Not with something like this. Something has to be wrong."

The old man looked up, eyes glittering with a dangerous light. His wand was out and raised before Pyrrhus could even see him move.

He never got the chance to use it.

One moment, Pyrrhus was standing, head beginning to turn towards the door. The next, he was flat on his back, bleeding from a hand wound. Everyone was down on ground, injured or dazed. And there were girls. Girls everywhere. With swords. Maybe Pyrrhus got hit on the head or something? He cast about for his wand—there, just a few centimeters from his hand, if he could just reach—

Then his arm was crushed against the floor by one girl's foot. He looked up at her, a short thing with glasses and sky-blue hair. She knelt beside him, foot still holding his arm down, and held out a bloodied knife. The moment it broke his skin, pins and needles rushed down his spine with such intensity that he seized up.

"Hey, everyone! I think this is the guy!"

The girl let him up, distracted by the call. He grasped, fumbled for his wand, brought it up with a shaking grasp, waved it, and nothing! What was going on?

The girls were clustered around the place where the old man had fallen. The girl who had just cut his chest was… shuffling in among them?

"Yeah, looks like the description. Hey Junsui, you tag this guy yet?" There was the sound of blade slicing into flesh. "Okay, then. Someone go get Honjo, get her to check. And… Fudo fell out in the hall, right? Someone check on her, I think this guy got a spell off."
-----

Phoebe sat down across from DuBois, and folded her hands on top of the table. "Well," she said quietly, "Charles Roth was indeed sentenced to life in prison for the murder of his wife, Anna McKay."

Benio glanced away. Across the room, McKay had balled herself up in a corner. Reiko was sitting next to her, just in case anything happened. The jorogumo caught Benio's eyes and gave her a quick nod.

"Got anything else?" Tatsuya asked, leaning forward.

"Interestingly enough," Phoebe nodded. "Apparently, the original examination of the body concluded that her injuries had been caused by a wild animal of some kind. A new coroner was called in later in the trial, and determined that the murder weapon was a kitchen knife." DuBois coughed, and she shrugged. "Odd mistake to make, but there were other, more subtle details—from the way the defense went about things, you'd almost think he was trying to prove Roth guilty. But the most fascinating thing…"

She leaned forward, pressing her fingers together in front of her mouth. Benio wasn't sure if she knew it or not, but she looked like she was copying the one famous character from the one famous anime.

"Well?" DuBois asked.

"One of the clerks, an older gentleman, recognized the name McKay as related to a civil case more than ten years before Anna was killed." Phoebe's eyes gleamed darkly. "I looked in to it. Turns out, Mrs. Olivia McKay was the defendant—The paternal aunt and uncle of Anna McKay sued for custody."

As the shipgirl continued talking, Benio sat back and enjoyed the gleeful sensation of being a character in a detective novel for a change.
-----

The blue-haired girl named Junsui was somehow suppressing his magic. That much the old man was certain of. She stood off to the side, holding the bloody tanto that was her true body away from herself—perhaps that was how it worked. As long as her blade had tasted your blood, she could prevent you from performing magic. Absolutely useless in many situations, but uniquely suited to dealing with wizards and mages… From this angle he couldn't see her maker's mark. Interesting.

That was the sole indulgence he allowed himself, being surrounded by blades as he was.

This was what Diehl has sealed the house for. Or maybe it was for the aurors who would be inevitably arriving. And with the young yokai (he's seen it's kind before, the distinction was easy to make) contributing some kind of teleportation block… this was going to be difficult to get out of.

"Fudo okay yet?"

"At… but… the… where…"

"Well, she's finally moved on from adjectives," someone noted brightly. "That's… probably a good sign?"

The blade who asked the question groaned.

More footsteps. Sharp, quick ones. Several of the blades surrounding him pulled away…

… revealing a familiar face.

"Yeah," the voice set a dull ache in his shoulder. "That's him alright." A hand reached down, seizing him by the collar and pulling him upright. "Let's get out of here."

The old man banished the thought that he would not be getting out of this one. He just needed to be clever.
-----

Spoilers: He wasn't clever enough.

Well, this is what happens when you try to write a snippet at two in the morning. If no one minds, I won't be going into the exact nature of our dear old bad guy's demise, since I don't think I could make a satisfactory one without going seriously ITG. This is the last we see of him, and just a little bit closer to finally closing this mess out. Next scheduled snippet, back to Haruka and Minato.

Well what do you think, sirs?

 

[darthcourt10]

eagle109

Everyday Living with a Refugee Youkai: The Case of Satou Ryoutarou

*Footsteps sound as a camera followed a young and rather tall Japanese man down the hall of an apartment complex, his body language all but radiating nervousness that shook the tattered duffel bag hanging off of his shoulder. His clothes was mostly nondescript, an olive green jacket provided by the JGSDF over a red plaid button-down shirt and faded blue jeans with a few holes, the rolled sleeves of the jacket making him look even younger than his already boyish appearance. Pausing before a door, the young man closed his eyes, took in a deep breath, and then let it out slowly before unlocking it. Shoes shuffled as crew and tenant switched to indoor slippers, and then the camera switched to a short overview of the apartment - hall, bathroom, kitchen, and the main living space with some basic furniture. Curtains were pulled to the side to reveal the lights of Tokyo Tower, shining as ever in the night, a breeze brushing messy bangs as the sliding glass door and screen was opened. For several moments, the young man stared at the glittering metropolis with wondrous awe before heading back inside.*
Spoiler: The apartment

Off-screen female narrator and subtitles: Can you tell us your name, and a bit of your background?

Ryoutarou *off-screen*: M-my name is Satou Ryoutarou. I'm 20 years old, my mother Shinafuji was a j-jorougumo and my father Satou Yuuichi was a normal human. So... I guess that'd make me a jorougumo-hanyou. Or maybe a tsuchigumo-hanyou? No, jorougumo-hanyou, yeah. I used to live in one of the Reserves in Aomori Prefecture before the Statue's fall, but my actual hometown was Hiraizumi in Iwate Prefecture.
Spoiler: Satou Ryoutarou

Narrator and subtitles: How did your parents meet?

*Ryoutarou fiddled with the bathtub and shower knobs, sheer delight on his face at seeing actual running water and being able to change the temperatures on a whim. More than once steam covered the camera lens, much to the cameraman's mild amusement as a cloth was shown to wipe the lens several times. Chuckles can be heard softly from behind the camera. Another cut, this time of him putting away some toiletries and clothes into the drawers, and then browsing on his new laptop.*

Ryoutarou *off-screen*: My parents always said that it was love a first sight. Father had been leaving a late shift from the butcher shop he worked at when he spotted Mother lying unconscious in the alley next door. "She was thinner than a needle," he used to joke, as well noting that it was a miracle he even spotted her because of how hard it was raining. He took her back to his apartment and nursed her back to health over the course of a week. Mother had told him she had no place to live, other than being kicked out of her old home. That was technically true to a degree, as she had fled her mountain home after reaching maturity, namely because of the in-fighting between her siblings and her mother, who truly lived up to the old dark reputation of jorougumo.

*Cut to Ryoutarou reading the manual for the microwave, mouth silently moving as he fiddled with the buttons. Another cut to a bowl of udon spinning in the microwave, Ryoutarou watching with open interest, and then a shot of him slurping down the noodles loudly.*

Ryoutarou *off-screen*: Since she had no government documentation, Mother obviously couldn't get a steady job, so she lived on scraps from the restaurants and convenience stores, and what little change she got from recyclables. She always complained about how wasteful people tended to be with food, so we'd sometimes end up with rather interesting meals, like leftover beef stew over udon instead of rice. Somehow, she got along with a small vagrant community that lived under one of the flood channel bridges after leaving her mountain. They never cared what she was, if they ever knew, only that they were glad she was able to supplement their meals with the occasional fish she sometimes caught.

*Cut to the jorougumo-hanyou surrounded by textbooks, sheets of paper filled with what look like academic questions while a frustrated look crossed his face as he struggled with some of the questions. The next cut is of him steadily sewing a patch onto his duffel bag, narrating real time.*

Ryoutarou *on-screen*: Father found out about Mother's true nature by accident. She wanted to repay him back for his kindness, as well help ease his financial burden, so she took inspiration from the story about the crane returning the favor.

One of the producers asking off-screen: The one where the crane repays her savior - either her husband or the elderly couple - by weaving cloth with her feathers?

*Ryoutarou nodded, finishing up the stitches neatly before cutting the thread and returning his needle, proudly revealing the team logo of the Rakuten Eagles covering what was once a patched hole.*
Spoiler: Rakuten Eagles logo

Ryoutarou *on-screen*: *He proceeded to get started on another hole, this time with a piece of a black fabric scrap.* She basically cobbled together a loom and wove in the room Father gave her, and somehow figured out some natural dyes that worked with spider silk. There was a street market near his apartment that gathered every Sunday, so she was able to sell her silk cloth there. While her tie-dye patterns and designs were simple, Mother said that her customers couldn't deny the quality of her fabric and so she'd sell out often, which made her happy. The extra money supplemented some of their needs, especially as she's a carnivore, even with Father sneaking out the shop's leftovers home.

Producer *off-screen*: So how did your father find out your mother being a jorougumo?

*Cut to Ryoutarou watching a live game of the Eagles playing against the SoftBank Hawks, eyes glued to the screen and fist pumping when a base was taken by an Eagle, hissing and softly booing when the Hawks would score.*
Spoiler: SoftBank Hawks logo

Ryoutarou *off-screen*: Father came home early one day, and she was in her jorougumo form.

Producer *off-screen*: That had to had been uncomfortable for her, given the sizes of most apartments and how large mature jorougumo get.

Ryoutarou *off-screen*: *wryly chuckling* You have no idea. It was like something out of a contortionist's nightmare/dream from how she described it, where Mother would use her back legs to draw silk out of her spinneret while her front legs and hands worked the loom. Father accidentally walked in on her when he heard the loom clacking away, so lost in her work. She had finally figured out how to actually weave patterns with her dyed silk.

Producer *off-screen*: And then?

Ryoutarou *off-screen*: She was ready to bolt out the window, but Father simply smiled and said that dinner that night was going to be Yonezawa beef.

Producer *off-screen*: *impressed whistling* Wow.

Ryoutarou *off-screen*: Wow, indeed. A big name customer had put in an emergency large order that day, and because the boss was so happy at the bonus the customer gave, the boss allowed the employees a portion of Yonezawa ribeye as well let them leave a bit early with their own bonus.

Producer *off-screen*: So she stayed because of that?

Ryoutarou *off-screen*: No. She stayed because Father told her he didn't care if she was a jorougumo, only that she was one of the most kindest person he's ever met - Father had met with the vagrants she used to hang out with, and they sang praises of her helping them. Well, that, and apparently Father was a bit of a legs man.

Producer and crew: *Good-natured laughing in the background.*

Narrator and subtitles: How did your family wind up in one of the Reserves?

*Cut to live Ryoutarou, sitting at his table with a solemn look, hands fidgeting.*

Ryoutarou *on-screen*: Blood Week. *He bit his lips, face downcast.* We were just about to return home after spending time on the beach when the shells started falling. Mother and Father were trying to help other civilians back to safety, but when the Abyssals sent their land forces, she took on her spider form and set about trying to slow them down with her webbing. The most I could remember was the screaming of both civilians and the shells landing with explosions around us. Unfortunately...

Producer *off-screen*: ...she ran out of silk and exhaustion took over.

*A sharp nod, eyes wet, fingers tightening.*

Ryoutarou *on-screen*: Father had been shielding me from some of the shrapnel that got thrown about, but one explosion sent both of us flying, and while I had no medical knowledge back then, I knew that the blood coming from his mouth and the loud crack from his back wasn't good. Mother was barely able to reunite with us before Tokyo's Aurors caught us, once the shipgirls drove off the Abyssals. The group quickly Portkeyed us away, leaving Father behind. "He's going to die anyway, not worth the trouble of calling in no-maj medical attention," I can clearly remember from one of the Aurors...

*Wet eyes blinked, the young man staring off into the distance, lost in memories for a moment.*

Ryoutarou *on-screen*: I think... it was small mercies that the leader of that particular group said that it'd be faster on the paperwork if Mother and I were kept together after they took us. Probably because they were already stretched thin as it was due to Blood Week, maybe some bit of compassion from her on not wanting to separate parent from child, or maybe she just didn't care because we were simply "monsters" in her view. Who knows. Life in the Reserve I was in was... hard. Not as harsh as some of the other places, but it wasn't a life of luxury either. Mother did her best to keep the two of us going. We were lucky in that we had a good sized stream flowing through our Reserve, so she shared whatever fish she caught with everyone else. While the silk she produced was of lower quality, due to Mother not getting enough of her normal amount of protein, it was greatly appreciated by a lot of the adults when it came to clothes. I think both things was what most likely helped ease off much of the worries the other youkai parents had, because we were all surviving together - no point in holding grudges because of reputations. If I had to approximate it, it's probably similar to the conditions as described of Manzanar or Heart Mountain. Maybe.

Producer *off-screen*: You mean Houston-san's book and Takei-san's Broadway musical Allegiance.

Ryoutarou *on-screen*: *He nodded.* Correct.

*Cut to Ryoutarou awkwardly sitting in front of a loom due to his long legs, muttering on having to redo several rows, and "by Daikokuten-sama's name, how did Mother figure this out without going insane?" as he carefully drew silk from the spinneret on the inside of his left wrist before winding it on to a spool. The loom wasn't that large, but it still took up a good portion of the living space despite the other furniture having been pushed to the side, demonstrated by the cameramen getting rather creative on finding decent enough angles for their shots. The heaviness of the video equipment is apparent from the slight trembling of arms by those holding the cameras above their heads. The laptop is precariously perched as close to the desk's edge so he can watch weaving tutorial videos. Slowly, the length of white cloth began growing, centimeter by centimeter, his rhythm getting a bit more steadier.*

Producer *off-screen*: What did the children do?

Ryoutarou *off-screen*: When we weren't home schooled by our parents on our natural abilities and some basics, we were taught by the other adults on the upkeep. How to thatch the roofs properly so the rain wouldn't leak through. How to lash a door and walls together with rope so that they wouldn't fall apart under harsh winds if we didn't had nails. How to identify which plants were safe to eat, safe to use for medicinal purposes, or to avoid on sight. I think us kids in our Reserve got really lucky, come to think of it.

Producer *off-screen*: How so?

Ryoutarou *off-screen*: Iruka-jii-san, a mujina, somehow put together a basic radio and we were able to pick up local transmissions - he dabbled as a radio operator and had to enchant it so as to be able to get better reception through the wards, yet despite the static it worked pretty well. One of the slots was a teaching program, so us kids were still able to get our education, even if it was no-maj stuff. We were also able to pick up news broadcasts. It... kind of became a way for us to escape, to pretend that we were still living outside, if only for a bit. Like hearing about new shipgirls' appearances, the state of the rest of Japan, and other world events. The Aurors were none the wiser, as whenever they'd come around for inspections, Iruka-jii-san would disguise the radio as a family altar. He was that good.

Producer *off-screen*: But nothing of the magical world?

Ryoutarou *off-screen*: None of the adults wanted to risk using anything to catch any news from the magical world, and I vaguely remembered the wizarding wireless being vetoed - whatever spells Iruka-jii-san did on the no-maj radio was apparently pushing it a bit. What we knew of the magical world was from what the Aurors would often loudly complain whenever supplies came in or when they made their rounds, as well the tossed newspapers that got snitched from their trash pile before it got reused as kindling or something else. Even then, our parents told us to take everything what the Aurors said with a grain of salt.

*Cut to Ryoutarou carefully testing how well his walls would react to his climbing, ending with him looking down at the camera from the ceiling. Then, a cut to that of several slices of spam sizzling on a pan, Ryoutarou beating eggs in a bowl before drizzling it over the spam.*

Producer *off-screen*: So, is the radio how you became an Eagles fan?

Ryoutarou *off-screen*: I was already one before Blood Week, courtesy of Father. *A snort of laughter.* Although Mother went bongo for the Hanshin Tigers after she had escaped from her mountain, so you can imagine the arguments between them when it came to the playoffs.

*More background laughter, one crew member loudly declaring loyalty to the Orix Buffaloes.*

Producer *off-screen*: Did it get bad, in the Reserve?

*Cut to a solemn-faced Ryoutarou, red-brown eyes staring nowhere again before he blinked back to the present, mouth grimacing slightly.*

Ryoutarou *on-screen*: We... came seriously close to a major flu epidemic one year. If it wasn't for a sarugami who happened to have a medicine degree from Tohokudai, there would've been a lot more cases. The poor sarugami, Katsunaga-sensei, and Hisame-san, a yuki-onna who got her nursing degree from Hokudai, ran themselves ragged on making sure fevers were under control, as well making do with the medicine, medicinal herbs, and what-have-you to make sure we were properly hydrated and not severely sick. Never mind the volunteers also making sure we weren't spreading it any further. One of Katsunaga-sensei's brothers was able to grow oranges, so that and most of us children having had our vaccinations from before helped eased things somewhat, as well the face masks Mother wove for everyone. It was still rather touch and go at times. With no running water and the stream as our primary source... *He gestured at the kitchen's direction.* We always boiled it, because none of the adults wanted to risk any water-borne parasites or diseases, and we didn't want to push poor Hisame-san any more than necessary - the ice she created was strictly reserved for the summers or those of us with major fevers. By the time I left the Reserve, I could barely remember what a faucet even looked like, much less how it worked. The kids that were born in the Reserve... They had no idea of what indoor plumbing was. Us kids that were born outside, we tried our best, but it was like trying to describe an elephant to a blind person. The radio Iruka-jii-san had was about the most "modern day" tech in our Reserve.

*Cut to Ryoutarou, a woman in a suit, and a JSDF officer going over several piles of paperwork, questions asked and answered, the blank spaces gradually being filled out or marked with specific notations before being filed away in an expandable file folder. Most of the questions for this round was going into further detail of his neighbors in the Reserve, such as what their prior occupations were before Blood Week, and then what roles they took up after their internment.*

Producer *off-screen*: Where is your mother now?

Ryoutarou *on-screen*: *Tears glistening in his eyes, lips trembling.* Mother... Mother passed away a little more than three years ago in the Reserve. *He shakily jerked his head to the side, the camera panning to a small altar where a framed charcoal sketch of a beautiful yet melancholic-looking woman and small white urn sat behind an incense pot.* She had been helping the adults patching up the roofs with water-resistant webbing during a nasty storm and wouldn't stop even when it got worse. I remembered her coughing really badly for weeks on end afterwards. By the time one of our kitsune neighbors finally convinced her to go see Katsunaga-sensei when she started having breathing problems, it was already too late.

Producer *off-screen*: What happened?

Ryoutarou *on-screen*: Pneumonia. She was able to keep it away from me with her face mask, but it just got worst, because Katsunaga-sensei lacked the necessary medicines he needed to help Mother. What he had on hand and made at the time could only ease her symptoms, but Kaihou-san, a tanuki who handled our woodwork and used to run his own carpentry business, was also having respiratory difficulties as well. Out of some foolish hope, Kaihou-san's nephew - Josh, his mother was from Brazil - and I tried asking the Aurors if they could give us medicine to treat both Mother and Kaihou-san, and maybe for preventative measures.

Producer *off-screen*: ...you weren't "worth it."

Ryoutarou *on-screen*: *Mimicking a sneering face and tone.* "Why should we waste our good medicine on mongrels like you? You guys got through the flu perfectly fine. Don't spread your sickness to us." *A resigned sigh.* We both immediately left before they could do anything to us. Mother held out as long as she could, but without medicine...

Producer *off-screen*: I see. ...and your father?

Ryoutarou *on-screen*: *His head shook, scrubbing at his face.* I don't know, but I doubt he survived his injures, because his back looked really bad. And if he's buried somewhere... *A shuddering breath.* I hope I can find his grave plot to reunite them.

Producer *off-screen*: Well, I have two pieces of news for you, Satou-kun. *The sounds of paper crinkling can be heard.*

Ryoutarou *on-screen*: *A nervous look at the producer off-camera, not speaking.*

Producer *off-screen*: *A stapled pack of papers was slid across the table, bearing the image of a middle-aged man in the upper-left corner.* The first piece of news, we sadly must inform you, is that Satou Yuuichi passed away due to severe spinal and various internal injuries, from what the coroner was able to determine. According to one survivor in an interview with the JMSDF - they had been hidden by a piece of debris from the Aurors - Satou-san passed not soon after the Aurors took you and your mother away.

*Red-brown eyes closed in resignation, breathing turning a bit ragged, while his knuckles turned white from clutching so tightly.*

Ryoutarou *on-screen*: Then his pain wasn't long. I'm... glad. And the other piece?

Producer *off-screen*: *Another piece of paper is slid over.* We've located your father's family grave plot in Hiraizumi. Apparently, it's not far from where your old apartment originally was. We also were able to locate and obtain your father's personal effects so you'll be able to pick them up at your discretion. In regards to the old apartment, it's being held under the non-magical government's control at the moment, but it is within your right whether you want to keep it or release it.

*Eyes snapped open alongside a sharp intake of breath. Ryoutarou stared between the paper, bearing an address, and then at the off-screen producer several times, tears soon sliding down his cheeks. He finally buried his face into his hands, openly weeping. As the image fades to black, a hand from off-camera can be seen moving to gently pat the hanyou's shoulder.

Image fades from black to Ryoutarou now slowly walking on a stone path, dressed in black and urn in hand, passing by many tombstones, pausing every so often to read the etched names. Around and above, the wind shifted the bamboo forest that seemed to had taken him and the camera crew to another world, the gentle rustling from the leaves mingling with the chirping of birds overhead. A Buddhist monk in his black robes and brown kesa is seen waiting for Ryoutarou at one particular grave and the camera stops a fair distance away, giving Ryoutarou his privacy as he and the monk greet each other with bows.

The final transition is to the family altar, the photo now showing a brilliantly smiling Shinafuji in jorougumo form wrapping her arms around a happily grinning Yuuichi from behind, a freshly lit incense stick wafting a thin stream of smoke. From the balcony, a wind chime tinkles from a breeze while the sound of a loom clacks away before fading to black.*

=0=0=0=

A/N: Right, inspired by Lord K 's post of a more tear-jerking/poignant DLwaMG take post-SoS. Canonicity is up to Leferts. Now if y'all excuse me, I need to see about dealing with some onion/sand/dust ninjas.

Ryoutarou = 良太郎 "good boy"
Shinafuji = 支那藤 Chinese Wisteria
Yuuichi = 優一, based on Yuuichi Nakamura the actor 中村 優一 (not to be confused with Yuuichi Nakamura the voice actor 中村 悠一), whose acting work includes Kyousuke Kiriya from Kamen Rider Hibiki and most famously Yuuto Sakurai/Kamen Rider Zeronos from Kamen Rider Den-O.
Hisame = 氷雨 hail, sleet, freezing rain
Iruka = イルカ, 海豚 dolphin
Katsunaga = 雄永, 勝永 or 勝長, although the 勝長 version would be after Oda Katsunaga, Oda Nobunaga's fifth son.

 

[darthcourt10]

Kab2

And we continue with the adventures of Sofia.
-----------------------
The island was previously an observation post for magicals for vegetation mutated with magic, when a wizard got the brilliant idea of combine an animal and a tree, here was where they studied its growth, to see if they could take advantage of it, from that day, any experiment involving a plant were carried to the island and see if something good came from it; but Blood Week happened and the island became deserted and forgotten.

But the island took a resident some time ago, a lonely abyssal fleeing from her fleet found it and made the island her base, with help of her crew she repaired the outpost to a living condition and began to live there, she stockpiled the fuel she got from the wreckages she found and a lot of canned food she found in one of them.

And today she brought with her a big tuna she found.

"Well." said Sofia. "What to do with this fish? I believe some abyssals killed it for fun not much time ago." She remembered the term with what the humans in the transport she saved from sinking referred her, it... made sense to her so she adopted the term to refer to her 'race'.

As she entered the outpost a little imp came out from her, asking for permission to fully materialize, which was given.

"If I can make a suggestion Frau Sofia, we can use today's lesson to make a fire and cook the fish." he said.

"I'm grateful you want to teach me magic Captain Hüttenwerk, but I already said I don't want to learn something that can be used to harm people." said Sofia giving a sad look to the grave in the backyard.

"And as I have said, you don't have to use it that way." said Hüttenwerk as he exposed his arguments. "Think about it, If you know how to cast the spell, you can know when an enemy is casting it to you so you can counter it accordingly. The magic is neither good or bad, it is how you use it what defines good or bad; for example you can use a fire spell to make a fire to cook, to light a torch or to make a person burn."

Sofia pondered a while his words. "You are right, but I am still uncomfortable with it, so we should leave those spells for later." she glanced to the backyard again. "Would you accompany me to the grave?" she said to the Captain.

Hüttenwerk saluted "It would be an honor, Frau Sofia."

As they made way to the grave, they made small talk.

"So in your opinion, how are the old Captain and his subordinates doing Captain?" asked Sofia.

Hüttenwerk sighed "It is a shame but they don't have salvation." he then explained the crew situation, something that he already explained to her, but he never thank her enough for. "We somehow have the memories and the personalities of the original crew of the submarine you are based, you have access to our memories if you wanted but you decided that our privacity was sacred, something me and the old prisoners are grateful for, the old captain was too involved with the Reich to be a good person as you realized when he said that you were useless as you didn't want to kill anything even if the submarine's objetive was the seabed search, or at least that was we were told." said the Captain not mentioning his suspicions for the real mission of the submarine, that wasn't important now. "The others are like him, not acknowledging the atrocities the Reich and the Spaniards did in that isle, that opened my eyes to the true nature of the Reich."

"So you recommend we leave them in the cargo hold?" asked Sofia as she didn't want to kill or abandon them.

Hüttenwerk nodded at the suggestion, "It would be the best option at the moment, the 'shipgirls' most likely would surely shoot at us at first sight, and the 'abyssals' would make us kill humans or tear us apart, and we can't leave them somewhere, as it would lower us to their level." he used too the terms the transport passengers referred to Sofia and the ones protecting the humans.

Reaching the grave, the discussion continued a bit more.

"It would be fine if the shipgirls listen to me if I come in peace, they protect the humans from 'us'" said Sofia with a grim face. "But there is the problem, how would they trust me if my kind is killing humans whenever they can? Or worse if my Princess is involved." A shiver ran through her body remembering the fate of some captured humans brought to her Princess.

"Indeed Frau Sofia, but for now let us forget the dark past and pray for the soul of this poor mage." suggested Hüttenwerk not mentioning the possibility that most scared her, and the other main reason she didn't try to contact the shipgirls.

Sofia nodded and they kneel and put their hands together, after a while Sofia spoke.

"I pray to whatever god the dead mage I found at the beach worshipped, that he got his deserved reward in the afterlife, either good or bad." she respected the beliefs of others, but as she didn't know his beliefs, she tried to do a generic prayer for this soul. "I'm sorry you died here so many years ago, but I hope you don't mind I picked up your wand to learn magic, thank you." with that they got up and went to the other side of the island to cook the tuna Sofia found.

In the outpost, a black sword was resting in the wall, when suddenly red runes formed in its surface as dark sparkles flowed from it.

From the shadows a hand clad in dark armor reached the window frame from where a pair of golden eyes saw the abyssal submarine and his Captain walking away.

"I am impressed with her strong will." said the figure. She clenched her hand, trying to get her movility to par."I am grateful to her for answering my call, but I cannot call her Master yet, I don't know enough of her, but for my plans I like what I am discovering."

----------------
Thanks for reading, I hope you like it.

 

[darthcourt10]

Harry Leferts

Head tilted to the side, Chikako frowned as she looked at the various radios which various Yokai were examining thoughtfully. After a moment, she raised her hand, "Um... Jintsuu-San?"

Blinking, the Light Cruiser looked over at her and smiled a little, "Hai? What is it... Do you want to go by Chikako or Masamune?"

With a shrug, Chikako shook her head, "Um, Chikako please, Jintsuu-San." At the nod, she scratched her head, "But, um... don't radios like that have short ranges?"

Chachi blinked herself and looked at the Repair Ship in confusion, "Shorter range than a ship's, but... didn't you know that?"

The answer that came out from the Neko shipgirl's mouth caused all the non-magical shipgirls to blink, "We didn't really have radio like the No-Maj navy, nya. Mostly wizarding wireless, a small contained Floo flame, and one of the sets they used for civilian ships." Scratching her head, Chikako frowned, "But I think that we were adding military sets at the end of the war."

For several moments, Jintsuu just stared at her and could feel those of her crew that had heard doing much the same. And, she was willing to bet, it was the same for the other JMSDF shipgirls there because of how it sounded. However, the Light Cruiser shook that off, "Well... you are correct about the range as a matter of fact."

It was then that Shimakaze shrugged a little, "But... we're building a base nearby that can lend you support." At the look from Jintsuu, she grinned, "Too slooow~ Ou!"

Pinching her nose, the Light Cruiser sighed, 'That's Shimakaze...' Ignoring the amused looks their byplay was getting, she cleared her throat, "As soon as the JMSDF found out about the... situation here, we broke ground on Kikaijima for a Naval Station. Currently, it is about complete and we're going to be moving some shipgirls there, including Souryuu and Hiryuu as Kure has enough Aircraft Carriers they can spare them. The Tone sisters as well as the Furutakas will be joining them."

Several eyes widened in surprise at finding that out, simply because what it meant for protection. Her shoulders relaxing a little, Mie gave her a small smile, "Thank you, Jintsuu-San. To know that Souryuu-Sama and Hiryuu-Sama both will be nearby... that takes a lot off our shoulders."

Lightly smiling, Jintsuu waved it off, "We're just trying to make up for not being there before now. You are all Japanese citizens and the government... the non-magical government as well as the JSDF believes that you deserved much better as does Kyoto. We cannot base, officially, on your island..." She glanced at the Yokai shipgirls there who blinked, "But... it is felt that this is the next best thing."

Chuckling, the lone kijimunā gave a chuckle before she grinned, "I think that is putting it mildly, Jintsuu-San."

Only shrugging, Jintsuu smiled back at her. Meanwhile, in her head, she was grinning, 'I can't wait for Hiryuu to find out who we're going to have there as Commander and see her expression. Lieutenant Commander Fujioka Hayate is a very good man for a Tengu... and the fact that he is the grandson of Yamaguchi-San.'

She remembered hearing about that conversation quite well due to a small incident where a Tokyo Auror had come across said Tengu while he had been off duty and accosted him... which had ended pretty quickly when Hiryuu, who was there as well, had interferred with the two going out for drinks. Neither one was, much to the frustration of some, dating yet. But it was obvious that the two were heavily attracted to one another. And once, when the two were drunk, Yamaguchi had come out as a fairy and commented that the Lieutenant Commander looked familiar... and when he mentioned that his grandmother stated he looked similar to his grandfather, who she had a fling with when said man was in his teens.

While she had not been there, according to Kiso, upon finding out the name of said grandmother, Yamaguchi had apparently gone white as a ghost before asking for a picture of her. Upon which he had nearly gone into a state of shock as he knew said woman, though not that she had been a Tengu. And that as a teen, he had spent a few... nights with her before going off to join the Navy after which she had disappeared. Unknown to him, it had been into one of the Reserves as she had been a River Tengu, and she had been pregnant at the time with Hayate's father, who died in a Dragon pox epidemic in the 1960s, but not before siring Hayate. Later, him, his mother, and grandmother all managed to get smuggled out of said Reserve. He had joined the JMSDF to follow in the footsteps of his grandfather who he had been told had been in the IJN.

Apparently, after hearing that, it had taken Souryuu, Zuikaku, Musashi and Yamato dogpiling a drunken and enraged Hiryuu to prevent her from going to the Tokyo Magical Diet to "Climb Mount Niitaka" there.

Internally, Jintsuu was grinning madly and already planning out how to clean out the betting pool on those two. Because the main issue was that the two had issues meeting up due to their duties to "Go out for drinks" which everyone saw as sort of dates. And Souryuu was fully on board with the idea, 'Hehehe... oh yes... Victory will be sweet.'

Unknown to her, back in Sasebo, Jane was frowning as she was looking at a blackboard with various notes on it, "Hmm... what do you think, Minumu? Will this get Jintsuu-Mama closer with Dad? Because we can't let Hiei-Mama get too far ahead and Arizona-Mama is a work in progress..."

The Smol tilted her head before gesturing with one pudgy hand, "Muu~"

Grinning, Jane gave a sharp nod, "Right you are! That will work out great as an adjustment!"

Back at the island, Jintsuu blinked and looked around with a frown as she felt a shiver go down her keel. Shaking that off, she turned back to the group before her, "So, yes, you will have the support that you need in this case."

Frown on her face, Hachimitsu leaned forward in thought before giving the orange wearing shipgirl a look, "And us?" At her raised eyebrow, the Kitsune continued, "We're shipgirls as well and not part of the JMSDF. I assume that something will come up."

Much to her surprise, the Light Cruiser chuckled, "Well, we were not sure what shipgirls were here, just that there were some." Then, Jintsuu gave a small shrug, "As for what we're hoping? The JMSDF is hopeful that you might sign up-" Raising a hand as various Yokai stood up with angered expressions, "As a force stationed here in the Reserve at least until the Statute falls and maybe after. This is especially important as until then, at least, evacuating everyone here in case of an incoming attack would be... problematic, and thus it is believed to be best to keep you here if that is what you wish."

Raising a finger, Shimakaze looked towards Chikako, "Though since you have a Repair Ship here, they might ask that she help out on Kikaijima if repairs are needed."

Slowly blinking, the Neko shrugged, "I don't think that I would mind doing that." She pumped her fist a little bit, "Because healing people is awesome! I'd be just like Haruto-Nii-San!"

It went without saying that Haruto had a slight blush on his face as he coughed into his fist. Pretending that the smirks from his girlfriends were not there, the Healer turned towards Jintsuu, "If they went through with this... what sort of benefits would they have? And I assume that there would be training as well?"

Jintsuu gave him a small nod of acknowledgement before clearing her throat, "For training... there would not be too much as we already know that you are all experienced. After all, you have defended the island from Abyssals since Blood Week. Something that would have been impossible if you did not know what to do and, in this case, it seems that you learned from the School of Hard Knocks." Various nods met her at that before she continued, "We would teach you modern codes, the sort of tactics and the like that we use in the JMSDF, which can be done here."

Beside her, Shimakaze frowned before snapping her fingers, "We should probably get them radios like we have." At the looks, the Destroyer shrugged before showing despite her state of dress and her physical age, she was experienced as a shipgirl, "It's pretty easy and it is not like we don't have the spares. Akashi-San and the other Repair Ships could make them easy and install them, which would give them greater range while letting them communicate with us."

The Light Cruiser considered that before turning to the Yokai shipgirls, "Would that be acceptable? Because Shimakaze-San does make a very good point there and it would be a huge help."

Each of the Yokai shipgirls looked at each other and held a silent conversation. A fact that both Jintsuu and Shimakaze nodded at due to what it said about their ability to work together and something that would be going into their reports. After a few minutes of this, Haruhime turned to them and nodded, "That... would be acceptable."

With a small nod, Jintsuu rubbed her chin before smirking as a thought occurred to her, "Of course, if you join the JMSDF you will get paid as per the rank of the Officer that would have commanded you..." Her smirk became a grin, "Including backpay for the past nine years."

At that, all five Yokai shipgirls had their jaws drop before Mikage spoke in a weak voice, "B-back pay...?"

Humming, and enjoying her far too much, the Sendai-Class Cruiser made a motion of her hand, "Oh yes, it is something that the JMSDF came up with for cases like this. From what I know, your backpay should be... right around a hundred million yen in total." More jaws dropped at that and Jintsuu cackled at the reactions, 'Oh yes... yes... behold the power of the Dark Side...'

It was a few hours later, after everything that was hammered out that everyone headed back down to the dock area. The cargo ships had been quickly, and efficiently, offloaded even without Ayane being there to handle the crane as it had been taken over by Oni while she was in the meeting. Various Yokai were chatting with the crews as the Sun began to touch the horizon, creating a blaze of colors and making the water glow a burnished orange. Looking out onto the horizon, Haruto took a deep breath before letting it out and then looking over the crowd.

From where he was, the Healer could easily see the large number of friends and family gathered there. And he did consider the Yokai exactly that, friends and family. Smiling, he walked over to Chikako and tapped her on the shoulder, "Chikako-Chan? Can I ask for a favor?"

Blinking, Chikako turned to him and blinked, "Nya?" After being told, she grinned and was bouncing a bit, "I can do that, Haruto-Nii-San!"

Simply patting her between the ears, much to her enjoyment, he nodded, "Thank you, Chikako-Chan."

All said Neko did was beam brightly at him.

Less than two minutes later, a clearing throat caused Hachimitsu to turn from where she had been talking with Jintsuu with the Kitsune blinking as Haruto gave her a glance, "Haruto-Kun? Is something wrong?"

Rubbing the back of his neck, he laughed a little, "Not really wrong, but... we've known each other for years, myself, your Nee-Sans, as well as Mie-Chan and Ichika-Chan."

More than a little bemused, Ichika grinned with a snicker, "Hai, and we've been your girlfriends for a few months now. What of it?"

For a few seconds, Haruto was quiet before he scratched his cheek, "Well... most of our friends and family are here, and it is nice, so..." Turning, he got down onto one knee and pulled out a box which he opened, "It seems like a good time to ask... would the five of you become my wives? I may be young still, and really just a Healer, but..."

Utterly stunned, each of the Yokai shipgirls boggled at him and then looking at the five rings that sat in the velvet box. Haruhime caught sight of Ayane, the Jorogumo who seemed surprised. But then, the spider woman winked at her with a smile and gave her a thumbs up which made the Kitsune smile back though she noted that there was a slight bit of wistfulness in the Jorogumo's expression, 'Thank you.'

Hachimitsu stared at him for a few moments before swallowing with a nod... right before she lightly bopped him on the head with tears in her eyes and a smile so wide it hurt, "Baka, just springing that on us like this! Of course we'll marry you!"

Only nodding as the others agreed, Haruto only nodded before reaching into the box and placing each ring onto the proper Yokai's fingers. Each one was nearly identical in design, with a diamond in the middle. The difference was in the gemstones that were to either side. For Hachimitsu they were citrines, for Haruhime they were rubies, Mikage had deep blue sapphires, Mie had chocolate diamonds, and her sister Ichika had chocolate opals.

Much to the shipgirls' slight confusion, they could almost swear that they felt something break, like a barrier of sorts and that the breaking was a good thing.

As the last ring was placed, the shipgirls took a moment to examine the rings now on their fingers as their former boyfriend, now fiancé, got to his feet. Blinking away tears, Mie sniffled a bit before grinning... and promptly grabbing Haruto's shirt before pulling him for a kiss. One that she deepened almost immediately with a growl as her fingers combed through his hair.

No sooner had she pulled back, than she was replaced by her sister, and then by each of the three Kitsune. The six of them were conscious of the Yokai around them cheering and applauding them. And Haruto caught sight of Chikako happily taking pictures of what was happening to be developed later for his mother and father. Of course, that was when he found all five girls pulling him into an embrace as Haruhime, who was the last one to kiss him, panted a little with her eyes dilated, "Haruto-Kun~ You realize that this means... you are stuck with us. Because we are never letting you go."

She shuddered a bit as he ran his hands along her side and growled into her ears, a sound that sent a tingle down her spine (as well as her fellow fiancée's), "Trust me, Haruhime-Chan... that is something that I do not mind at all..." Pulling back, Haruto looked around and smiled before he raised his voice, "As an aside... I have spoken to my parents about it and we shall have the wedding here. So that all my friends, family, and neighbours can be a part of it."

Cheers rang out among the various Yokai and more than a few of the male ones came over and slapped him on the back as he laughed. Granted, none of his wives to be let go of him either though they were complimented by the other female Yokai. Off to one side, Chikako was hopping up and down with a massive grin, 'Haruto-Nii-San is getting married! And I'm going to be the flowergirl, Nya!' Seeing the reactions, she shook her head with a giggle, especially as Mikage pulled Haruto in for another kiss, "Adults are so silly..."

 

[darthcourt10]

Yellowhammer

A Belgian Butterknife's Japanese Vacation (XII)

14 July 2014

Mikasa Park, Yokosuka, Japan
Spoiler: A Meeting In The Park

"Bonjour, Monsieur Harry Potter. I am Marchioness Colombe d'Aubigny du Chasteler-Muramasa, and a close friend of your great grandparents Ian and Lyra Potter whom I was greatly honored to know."

Harry Potter bowed in return to the formal greeting from the blond-haired Frenchwoman dressed in an antique dress from the zenith of European power. "Hello, I am Harry Potter, Mrs. du Chasteler. Tsukiakari mentioned that you are and have been a good friend of my family."

Colombe's lips quirked in a small smile. "Yes, I have striven to be. I regret that after Ian's son Henry Potter passed away, my contacts with your family lapsed for various reasons." Colombe looked distant and her eyes glimmered as she continued quietly, "in my three centuries of life, I have found that immortality can be a curse to the one who must continually walk away from a loved one's graveside alone."

Next to Harry, Verniy gasped and nodded in agreement with the melancholy words. "Da, it is," she whispered quietly.

Harry placed an arm around Verniy's shoulder and she leaned into his embrace. Colombe smiled very wistfully. "I promised Ian to be there for him and his shortly before his death when I last saw him in 1927 and then again when Lyra began her final decline in 1949. If I may, I would like to introduce my daughters?"

Harry smiled and hugged Verniy closer to him as Maruyu squeezed his hand. "I'd like that."

Colombe turned and the brunette in a black dress walked forward and curtsied to him. "Hello, I'm Claire du Chasteler, Mother's middle daughter and the spirit of my piano." She said in a gentle musical voice with a shy smile.

Suddenly Claire started as Kensho appeared beside her to tug her skirt hem. The young child spoke happily with wide eyes. "Are you really a piano?"

Claire nodded and knelt, ruffling her young cousin's hair gently. "I am. What's your name?" The piano said with a gentle smile.

"Master Harry named me Kensho!" The kogatana said in a happy voice as Catherine took a cone of shaved ice in her hands from Tsukiakari for the young blade. "Mou, you really really are a piano?"

Claire smiled happily as she led Kensho to where Tsukiakari and Catherine waited. "I am. I don't have my true body with me; it is back in Belgium, but I can do this..."
Spoiler: Kensho's Favorite Tune!

Claire began to hum a catchy tune in perfect multi-part harmony.

Juuchi groaned and facepalmed at her nieces' antics when she saw Kensho's face light up with her overjoyed smile. Kensho then clapped happily and began to sing along. "Sunny Day! Sweepin' the clouds away! On my way to where the air is sweet! Can you tell me how to get, How to get to Sesame Street?"

Harry and Colombe both looked at Claire, and Colombe chuckled with a fond smile on her face. "And my youngest daughter, Ehren du Chasteler."

Ehren walked up and curtsied. "{Hello, I am pleased to meet you}," she said in clearly rehearsed Japanese. "{I am Mutti's youngest daughter}."

Harry bowed to her. "It is a pleasure Ehren. I remember your friend Masamune-no-Tokunotakai," he continued as the miko walked to Ehren's side.

Toku stepped to join the conversation. "Hai. We first met when Harry-san returned my sister Honjo-neesama to her family." The miko bowed to Juuchi. "Juuchi Yosamu-sama. I regret that we were busy the earlier times we met and did not speak then."

Juuchi returned the bow. "Tokunotakai. Prissy as always, I see. At least you finally stopped gathering dust in the Hachimangu to wet your steel."

Colombe bristled slightly at her aunt's challenging words. Tokunotakai, however, smiled serenely and spoke calmly, "It is good to see that you have returned to Japan as well, Juuchi Yosamu-sama. Your warrior's journey took you to Europe as mine has and I hope that it has been as enlightening as mine is proving to be."

Colombe interjected, "I'd hoped to see you at the beach party the others of our family held to welcome myself, Ehren, and Claire to Japan, Aunt Juuchi. Who're your and Harry's friends?"

Maruyu spoke up. "Spirit of the Type Three Submergence Transport Vehicle, Mogu-mogu!" She bowed in greeting to Colombe and Ehren.
Spoiler: A Rapier, A Kodachi, And A Saint's Blade

Colombe curtsied. "A pleasure to meet a shipgirl, Mademoiselle Maruyu." The rapier paused, "Aunt Chisuheri told me that you're the First Master of her youngest sister?"

The shipgirl nodded with a small smile and then reached into her hold to withdraw the sheathed Gyakuryuu. "Hai, this is Gyakuryuu."

Colombe and Ehren leaned in to examine the kodachi, and then gasped in awe as Maruyu half-unsheathed Gyakuryuu to exhibit her blade. "She's beautiful," The rapier whispered in awe at the rippling patterns in the steel. "Hello Aunt Gyakuryuu, I'm Norimune's oldest daughter Colombe du Chasteler and this is my youngest daughter Ehren du Chasteler, your niece and grandniece. I hope to fight alongside you when the time comes one day."

Ehren nodded with shimmering eyes, "Ja, Tante Gyakuryuu. I hope that you honor your family as I strive to honor mine."

Maruyu smiled proudly. "She already has done so. Tokunotakai-sempai, Corporal Egawa Heiji asked me to relay along that he is happy to see you once more."

Tokunotakai gasped and covered her mouth with her hand as her eyes went wide. She then bowed to Maruyu. "I regret that my tutelage in the art of the sword was insufficient to return him safely to his family. He should know that his sister's son owns a bicycle repair shop in Kamakura, and was one of my pupils in kendo as a child. If you wish, I can put you... him... in contact with the members of his family that I know."

Maruyu gave a tear-filled happy smile as Harry placed a hand on her shoulder and squeezed, "I'd like that."

As Toku stepped to the side to talk to Maruyu in Japanese, Verniy stepped forward. "Privyet!(Private) I am the spirit of the destroyer Verniy, who was the Japanese ship Hibiki during the Pacific War."

Colombe smiled warmly and shook Verniy's hand. "It is good to meet you as well, Verniy. I see that Harry is well taken care of with two shipgirls as friends plus the members of what Tsukiakari called the Potter Armory such as Aunt Juuchi." Beside her, Ehren nodded, her expression cool and unreadable at Verniy's words.

Juuchi smugged, "I alone would be sufficient to keep Master Harry safe, but not all of us combined would be sufficient to keep him out of trouble."

"I see!" Colombe laughed, then looked over to where Claire was teaching Kensho how to sing Frère Jacques with Catherine and Tsukiakari's help. "I take it the blonde lady with the espées d'armes at her side is another member of the Armory then?"

Beside Colombe, Ehren looked that way and then stared in slack-jawed shock as she recognized the lady who had spoken to her gently while she had rested in Potter Manor during World War II. A lady who had prayed for her, and had slowly helped to begin to draw the poison of National Socialism's foul lies and hatreds from her spirit.

Behind Harry, Juuchi grinned in smug triumph as she focused the camera of her phone on her niece's face and hit record. The greatest Muramasa called out: "She is. Cathy, come over and introduce yourself!"

Cathy turned and gave a gentle smile that made Colombe think of the expression of the Virgin Mary that had been sculpted in Michelangelo's Pietà when she had seen it in Rome. She walked over and curtsied as she spoke in French. "{Bonjour Colombe d'Aubigny du Chasteler. I am honored to meet you openly at last. Gabriel Potter told me so many good things about you.}"

Colombe whispered in shocked disbelief as her jaw dropped. "{Your accent, it is from Lorraine....}"

Catherine nodded. "{My Mistress was born in Domrémy in the Vosges. I am Catherine.}"

Colombe sank to one knee as her tears of joy flowed. She whispered reverently, "{The sword of La Pucelle d'Orléans...}"

 

[darthcourt10]

NotHimAgain

Here is my new thingy! It is very late, but it is a thingy!
-----

Haruka breathed in and out uncomfortably, then reached up and knocked on the door.

Half a minute later, just as she was starting to wonder if she should knock again, the door swung open and Haruka was confronted with a woman who, were she not clearly older, she would have mistaken for Hayami.

"Ah… Mrs. Hayami?" she asked cautiously.

"That I am," the woman confirmed, face splitting into a ready smile. "So what's your name, young lady?"

Haruka bowed politely. "Oh, I'm Tachibana Haruka. I'm here to talk to Hayami-san…" no, wait. That would be confusing. Maybe she should use Hayami's first name? But she probably wasn't close enough to the younger girl to do that. Uh… "Ah, your daughter?" Kill me now. "There was something that I wanted to discuss with her."

Mrs. Hayami stared.

"I'm sorry, is something wrong?"

The older woman shook herself, and smiled again. "No, no, nothing at all," she said quickly. "Please, come inside." She turned, and called deeper into the apartment. "Minato! There's a friend here to visit you!"

A door creaked, Hayami shuffled out into view, and Haruka had to almost physically fight back a wince. She'd known people who could make baggy sweats look fashionable, but Hayami most definitely did not number in their ranks.

"Senpai," the younger girl said, frowning. "I… didn't expect you here."

"Yes," Haruka said, nodding, focus on the hair, it looks better down than in a ponytail, DO NOT LOOK LOWER THAN THE HAIR, "the thing that we talked about the other day, I… had a few questions."

Hayami glanced to the side briefly, then nodded. "Yeah… sure. My room's this way."
-----

"What do you think you're wearing?" Haruka hissed as the door shut behind her.

Hayami flopped down onto a beanbag chair. "Comfortable clothes," she said casually. "Is that all you wanted to ask?"

Setting her teeth, Haruka forced herself off of the subject. "No, I came here about something else… We decided that I would continue to write manga until I came up with something you approve of, but I realized that I don't actually know what you like in a manga. That might help me come up with something…"

Nodding solemnly, Hayami clasped her hands under her chin. "I like manga that is good."

One second passed, then two, as Haruka silently questioned her life choices.

There was a knock at the door. "I have tea!" Mrs. Hayami called.

"You may enter," Hayami replied, walking over and opening the door.

"Minato! Why didn't you offer your guest a seat?"

"There's another beanbag right there," Hayami pointed out, flopping down again with a cup of tea in hand (not spilling it, too—she must have perfected it to an art form somehow). "She can sit if she wants."

"It's polite, Minato."

Haruka accepted her cup of tea, still slightly baffled.

"I don't hear offering."

"I thought we implied it."

"Minato."

Hayami took a long drink from her teacup, holding it with both hands and appearing about as baffled as Haruka felt. "Whew, that's hot. Don't know why I keep doing that. Uh… have a seat? If you so wish?" Mrs. Hayami looked ready to start lecturing her again, and Haruka dropped into the beanbag chair as quickly as possible.

Mrs. Hayami didn't look too satisfied with the result, but stepped back out anyway. Haruka took a sip of her tea—mm, that was good.

"I tend to lean towards action stories, more than the… psychological or romantic ones," Hayami said abruptly, rocking back and forth briefly. "That being said, I still have a preference for strong characters… especially when the author plays around the archetypes a little. Like Naruto—he seems to be the typical idiot hero at first, but when you get down to it he's a neglected child begging for attention. Not like, oh-ho-ho, these characters are dumb and I'm gonna show exactly how dumb they are with this dark and worldly story, any two-bit whiner can write something like that. More just… fiddle with the ideas a little, use the archetype as a starting point, you know?"

Haruka stared until she realized that she was actually being asked a question. "Uh… yes?"

"Characters are important. Plot is also important, and I think the two kind of play off of each other, like… I dunno, things that play off each other really well."

Was this like a teacher's lecture? Haruka felt like she was supposed to be taking notes.

"I really don't get you," she said.

"I'm used to it," Hayami replied. She blinked, and the corner of her mouth twitched slightly.

"I mean… the lecture is… interesting, I suppose, but I don't feel like it explains as much about what you like. Maybe… let's hang out more?"

Hayami was silent. Haruka looked more closely—her kohai was giving her a deep, scrutinizing look, as if she wasn't sure what to make of the offer.

"… if that'll help you write," she said slowly, mouth twitching again. The way she said it, it was almost a question, and it gave Haruka the feeling that she wasn't entirely comfortable with the offer.

"Where would you like to go?" she asked, upbeat, trying to figure out what would get her interested. "We could try the mall—"

Hayami sat up straight, as if Haruka had just threatened to shoot her. "You're not turning this into a clothes trip," she demanded frantically, "All the stuff they sell at the mall sits right up against your skin, and it's itchy."
-----

"Thank you for today," Mrs. Hayami said as Haruka pulled her shoes on. "It's so nice that Minato's finally had a friend to visit." She frowned. "Even if she ended up making a hash of it."

"It's okay, really," Haruka replied. She paused, wondering if she should ask the question. "When you say finally…"

The older woman smiled. "It's nothing. Please, come over again some time."

"I probably will."

As Haruka walked away from the apartment building, she began to lose herself in thought about the coming excursion. Hayami had vetoed everything except for the arcade and getting lunch together, so fast food it would be. It rankled Haruka, but then again, there was so much about her kohai that frustrated her.

Still, who knew? Maybe this would help her figure the younger girl out.

She did kind of want that.
-----

Man, "it's not perfect" is kind of a thing with me lately, isn't it. Still, I don't really mind how this one turned out as much. Next scheduled snippet? Hmm... Well, I wonder what Dana's up too.

Well what do you think, sirs?

 

[darthcourt10]

Third Summer Holidays - Summer THREE C, Split Point due to Keep Filesize Down

START

 

[darthcourt10]

Harry Leferts

As the Sun slowly rose above the horizon in the Ryukyu's, the inside of one hut in particular began to slowly brighten. Still asleep, Haruto breathed in and out slowly, completely at rest as did his girlfriends as well as Chikako. There wasn't a blanket as the nights were warm in the summer, to say the least. And considering the heat of the days, everyone was going around in light clothing anyways.

Part of the reason that all of them still slept was due to simple exhaustion the day before. They had talked well into the night about what the new relationship upgrade meant for themselves, as well as what would come next. By the time that they had finally gone to bed, Chikako was already asleep leaning against Haruto and barely stirred as they all got into the futon. Despite the excitement, however, they had fallen asleep soon after.

The Sun was above the horizon before any of them stirred, with the first being Hachimitsu to open her eyes.

For several moments, the Kitsune shipgirl simply laid there as she rose and fell with each of Haruto's breaths as she blinked her still sleep filled eyes. However, she soon came to her senses and her eyes widened a bit as she realized that, yes, the night before had not been a dream. That it had been real and everything had actually happened. It took everything for her not to give a happy squeak of joy at that. Especially as it would have ruined her image, as it were.

However, that did not stop her from grinning so widely that it had actually hurt. Because Haruto had actually proposed to her, her sisters, as well as Mie and Ichika! Right there in front of everyone as a matter of fact! Even now, it made her boilers pound and heat up at just the thought. Laying her head back down onto Haruto's chest, her tail happily swished from side to side as she felt like she could just burst from joy.

In her head, she went back over everything the day before as she gently ran her thumb along the ring that now sat upon her finger. Glancing at it, she smiled a little bit goofily at it as the light glinted off the gold and gems. Just a reminder that, yes, it was real. And also that, indeed, the young man she had a relationship had asked for her to be one of his wives. Something that filled her with joy each time that she thought about it.

Laying there, her head on his chest, she softly sighed as she went back over the journey to get to this point. She could still remember the little boy so many years ago that looked up at her and called her "Onee-San" as well as her sisters. Herself and her sisters had been born around 1983 and settled next to Aoi's and Hiashi's home. Both adults knew that they were Kitsune, but were not bothered in the slightest. By that point, Ichiro was already going to Mahoutokoro and while they did not really know him, they could see some changes in him as the years went on. However, they could not have expected him to report them and have them thrown into a Reserve...

Quickly shaking off that thought, Hachimitsu turned her thoughts back onto the younger Haruto. Back then, her and her sisters found the young child to be adorable. And whenever he called them "Onee-San", they had to fight the urge to coo. It was not like they did not have lots of opportunity to do so, either seeing as Aoi and Hiashi were away from home often enough and needed a babysitter. Being such allowed for the three Kitsune to get a little bit of money in their pockets and they did not mind taking care of the young child for the day, quite the opposite.

The memories of that time brought a smile to the Kitsune's face as she remembered them, thumb still stroking her new ring.

Closing her eyes, Hachimitsu sighed as she looked back on them. She could see her and her sisters taking Haruto to the nearby park to play, and in summer time catching insects with him. A giggle nearly escaped her when she remembered his shock and surprise when a giant beetle crawled up his arm. Mikage had gently pulled it off and placed it onto a tree for it to climb as the young child watched in awe. When it was colder, however, Haruto often found himself cuddled up to the Kitsunes nice and warm in their fluffy tails.

A snicker came from the blonde Kitsune's lips as she had the thought that the more things changed, the more that they remained the same. Because even now, in the Reserve, when the temperature was cooler or at night, Haruto sometimes found himself wrapped up in their tails. Something that neither he nor them were really all that bothered by and enjoyed.

Of course, the day eventually came when Ichiro had reported them, and even now despite everything the Kitsune felt a flash of anger. While she felt sorry for Hiashi and Aoi, as well as Haruto to some extent (mainly because there was no real love lost between him and his older brother), Hachimitsu couldn't bring up the slightest bit of sympathy for Ichiro due to what happened to him. Quite the opposite as the only thing that she was sorry about was that karma did not strike him earlier. Because for years, her and her sisters had dreamed of vengeance against him.

Granted, they got some measure of that while waiting for Kyoto to pick him up. Oh, they didn't physically harm him, no. Rather, they made damn sure to scare the crap out of him by describing exactly what they would do to him if they caught him there once more. Though Mie's descriptions made him soil himself, with said Inugami as well as the three Kitsune somewhat disturbed by it as well. It likely did not help though that they told him all about his younger brother's... prowess, which he had not seemed to enjoy in the slightest.

Much to their amusement.

Her mind drifted back to meeting Haruto again and how they had reacted. None of the three Kitsune had ever thought that they would see the young boy again, even if they had managed to escape from the Reserve. And yet... there he was, the young boy that they knew now becoming a young man. More than that, they were stunned and somewhat embarrassed when they heard from him that he had been looking for them, complete with them being hugged.

While Hachimitsu was not sure about her sisters, she knew that part of the blush she had that day was not simply because of him hugging her... Or, rather, it was, but not because of his obvious happiness at finding his "Onee-Sans" once more. Part of it was because, even then, she found him handsome. Well, inside her head she had a thought at the time which still made her flustered to this day: "Oh my... he became hot!"

And his personality, still the same from when he was a child if a bit more mature, didn't help. If anything, it made him all the more attractive due to being still the kind, caring person that she knew. More than once since being reunited with him, Hachimitsu had wondered about what would happen if she had kits, children, with him. Oh, she knew before long that she was not the only one who had such thoughts as her sisters did as well and after his fight against the cholera epidemic, Mie and Ichika. Not that she minded sharing him too much, especially with those she knew that would care for him.

Granted, part of her wondered how much that was the normal instincts, as Yokai had stronger instincts closer to those of the animals they came from, and how much of it was from how ships often were in fleets.

But, in the end, it had not mattered too much to her or the others. And as for children? Ever since Chikako came into their lives, she knew that he proved himself many times over for being the type of person who would make a wonderful father. Not that she had not believed so before, but it was nice to be proven right.

Since then, they had teased and flirted with him about various things. They had also enjoyed it when, despite how flustered they would get, he turned the tables on them and teased and flirted right back at them. Something that they really liked and enjoyed. While they had not been dating quite yet, there was something there after all.

Then, came the previous New Years. None of them, not one of them, expected for him to come out and tell them his feelings and to give them all a kiss. Even now, it brought a pleased flush to Hachimitsu's cheeks and her boilers, oddly enough, went "Doki doki" much to her bemusement. They could tell how much courage that had taken from him at the time, and promptly soothed him by revealing that they felt much the same by kissing him back. Just the first of many, many kisses.

Very enjoyable kisses.

Oddly, their relationships had not changed much beyond now kissing and making out, sometimes heavily when Chikako was not around. In recent weeks they had found out that the hands of a Healer are very good indeed! And that memory made Hachimitsu smother a growl deep in her throat as she remembered how afterwards it took every fiber of her will not to jump him and leave him needing skelegrow the next day. Something that she knew that she had shared with her sisters as well as the Inugami twins. All of them were looking forward to when they married Haruto, because Chikako would likely need to stay with someone for at least a week.

It went without saying that the fact that they now wore rings only solidified when that date would be. Opening her eyes, Hachimitsu smiled some as she looked down at her ring with the citrines on either side of the diamond, all sparkling in the light. She had to admit, her husband to be had very good taste. And those words, 'Husband to be', already did not fail to warm her from the inside. The rings themselves were just physical proof for what they already knew to be true.

Feeling Haruto stir under her, Hachimitsu looked up at his face as he slowly awoke, already knowing that his other girlfriends had been awake like her and probably thinking much the same thing. Upon opening his eyes, his gaze met hers and he smiled, "Good morning, Hachimitsu-Chan..."

Just shifting a little, the blonde Kitsune kissed him, which deepened within seconds and she pulled away breathless as did he, "Good morning, love."

Lips curling into a smile, Haruto chuckled a bit before turning to the others to say good morning, and getting kisses from them as well. Though he giggled a bit as Chikako wiggled out of the cuddle pile and walked over to where the table was to get ready for her breakfast. And he was not the only one as the other women also looked upon the little Neko rather fondly as a matter of fact.

Soon, they were all gathered around the table as they enjoyed another breakfast together, this time with the adults being officially engaged to one another which they loved.

_________________________________________________________

Hearing the bell above her door ring, Ayane blinked and looked up from the fashion magazine she had on her desk. It was months old, but... she enjoyed them, and Haruto always gave her any that he came across, which she greatly appreciated. Upon seeing who was there, however, she smiled, "Mikage-Chan!"

The blue haired Kitsune smiled back and gave her a small wave as she walked forward, "Good morning, Ayane-Chan."

One eyebrow raised, Ayane gave her a look as she leaned forward before grinning salaciously, "What are you doing here, by the way? I would have thought that you would have still been, ah, celebrating you engagement."

Smirking, Mikage shrugged a bit, "Actually? We're waiting until the actual wedding for that. As hard as it is..."

Across from her, the Jorogumo gave her a sympathetic look, "Must be hard."

Just sighing, Mikage shook her head a little, "You have absolutely no idea. But... there are other ways that one can let off a little steam without going all the way, though it just builds up more."

With a snort at the Kitsune's waggling eyebrows, Ayane grinned, "I can imagine. Poor Haruto-Kun will need to prescribe himself plenty of fluids and skelegrow." At the answering grin and wink, she laughed before shaking her head, "Well, I can guess why you're here."

Nodding, her friend chuckled a little, "Sort of obvious, I guess." At the nod, Mikage shook her head, "But we're going to need at least five wedding Kimonos, and a Hakama for Haruto-Kun."

Ayane pulled out a notebook and started writing in it, "Hmm... well I do have a few ideas for it, I will admit. And I already have all your sizes as well..." Tapping her pencil against her chin, she frowned before motioning it towards the Kitsune, "That does beg the question of if you want something for Chikako-Chan. And how long of a timeframe we have before the wedding."

For a few moments, Mikage considered that before humming, "Chikako-Chan would look nice in a new Kimono, so that would be appreciated. As for time? We haven't yet pinned down a date, but... we're going to wait at least as long as we have been together romantically before tying the knot..." At the smirk she got, the Kitsune went back over what she said before blushing, "Ero-spider."

Completely and utterly unrepentant, the spider woman grinned and shrugged, "Jorogumo, it's in our very blood and I'm proud of it. Besides..." A snicker escaped from her as she motioned her pencil at the still blushing Kitsune, "You walked right into that one." Hearing grumbles, Ayane turned back to her notepad as she took a few notes, "Hmm... give me a few months and I'll have everything. Though any ideas on the wedding itself?"

Head cocked to the side, Mikage considered that for a few moments before frowning, "We've bounced a few ideas since so many are going to be invited." Finger tapping on the desk, she hummed, "Thankfully, since Haruto-Kun is a wizard and his parents are magical, they can increase the amount of food. But... besides the standard fare, we've considered buying fried chicken and pizza from the mainland, increasing the amount, and letting everyone have some. Maybe burgers too."

Blinking, Ayane gave her a thoughtful look, "Huh... I've heard of fried chicken, pizza, and burgers... but never tried them. Any good?" Upon seeing the look she got, she tapped herself in the chest, "I've been born and lived all my life here in the Reserve, remember? Never gotten the chance to eat food from the outside, although I've been told it is good."

That caused Mikage to wince before she gave a small nod, "Forgot about that... as for how it is? It tastes pretty good actually though it has been years since I have had pizza or anything like that. You'd love the more meaty ones though."

Grinning, the Jorogumo chuckled some, "I'll take your word for it, Mikage-Chan."

With that, she turned back to her notebook and started drawing designs with her experienced hand. Hearing a clearing throat, she looked back up at Mikage who seemed... unsure. But then the Kitsune looked at her with a small frown, "How do you feel... about this..." She motioned her hand before tapping her ring, "You know? Us getting married to Haruto-Kun?"

Just blinking, Ayane frowned for a moment, "How do I feel?" When the Kitsune nodded, she shrugged, "Honestly? I'm pretty happy for you all."

Eyebrow raising, Mikage gave her a look, "Really?"

Leaning forward, the spider Yokai returned the look, though she noted with amusement that Mikage's eyes went to her top with how it hung off her, "Really." Pulling back a little, Ayane let out a puff of air, "I... won't say that I'm not a little sad about it, missed chances and all that. But I am happy about it and trust me, I'll be making the best damn wedding Kimonos for you bunch that I can if that will prove it."

For several seconds, Mikage's gaze met Ayane's, who returned it, "Huh..." Glancing back at her, the Kitsune's ears twitched a little, "But you do feel a little disappointed."

At that, Ayane rolled her eyes, "Hai, a little. And can you really blame me, Mikage-Chan? Haruto-Kun is one hell of a catch. He's not just intelligent, kind, caring, obviously a great father if how he treats Chikako-Chan is..." She reached out with her hands and made grabbing motions, "He's also got a great bod, and that ass, I just want to nip it a little."

Unable to help herself, the blue haired Kitsune threw her head back and laughed. Once she had it under control, Mikage turned back to her and winked, "Trust me, you're not the only one."

Highly amused, Ayane winked at her, "Besides which, I've been his tailor and had to take, ah, measurements. You are very lucky." Softly chortling as Mikage went red and flatted her ears against her head, the Jorogumo shrugged, "Don't deny it, you know that it is as true as I do."

Coughing, Mikage looked away, "Maybe..."

Moments later, the tailor waved a hand, "So, yeah, am I saddened by the fact he is getting married? Sure, impossible not to be. But I am happy about the fact he is happy and so are you. Despite what some might think in regards to us Jorogumo, I'm not a homewrecker."

Arms crossed, Mikage hummed in agreement as she thought about that, and how true it is. Oh, her and the others knew that the Jorogumo flirted with Haruto and did have feelings for him. At the same time, unlike some of the other female Yokai? She never carried such actions too far, always backing off when she noticed that it got the other girls annoyed, not that it happened often. And she was not wrong about having been Haruto's tailor, as she had done measurements of him for clothes made in the Reserve...

Yet, during such times, she kept it strictly professional. No flirting comments, no making moves on him, it was completely professional... even if she teased him afterwards. It was one of the reasons why the Kitsune and the others didn't worry in the slightest even when she took him to the measuring rooms.

Head cocked to the side, Mikage had a slight smirk on her face as she remembered a few incidents, "Hmm... maybe..."

Confused, Ayane looked up in question, but not getting anything more, went back to work as she had quite a bit of work to be done. She was happy when later in the day, Haruto dropped by with a bag of pepperoni sticks as a downpayment. A bag that she opened and took some out of with a joyful expression as she began to munch down on them.

 

[darthcourt10]

Yellowhammer

A Belgian Butterknife's Japanese Vacation (XIII)

14 July 2014

Mikasa Park, Yokosuka, Japan
Spoiler: A Prayer Answered

As Ehren watched wide-eyed in shock, her mother sank to one knee and bowed her head. Tears flowed down her cheeks as she smiled uncontrollably. She whispered reverently, "{The sword of La Pucelle d'Orléans...}"

Those words hit Ehren like a lightning bolt. For now she knew who the woman who her mother was kneeling to was.

She remembered that gentle, compassionate voice and loving smile from the gold-haired woman who had visited her while she wept soundlessly alone after being... used... on Mutti by Vati.

The betrayal and soul-deep agonies that had wracked her steel body day after day, month after month, year after year.

For she knew deep in her soul that what she had been used for in that searing instant when she tasted her mother's life-blood was not honor but spite and malicious revenge.

That what had been done was wrong and she was an unwilling part of it.

And yet, even in her lonely anguish and guilt afterward, this woman, kin yet not kin to Mutti had come daily to visit her where she hung alone in the Armory.

A light in the darkness of her existence driving back the shadows that clung to her.

A drink of living water to the thirsty tormented prisoner still chained within her steel.

A gentle whisper of reassurance that redemption and forgiveness were possible for even one such as her.

That one day she would be granted the opportunity to make amends for what she was, what she had done in Vati's hands. To take charge of her own destiny and turn to the Light and Good from the pit that had spawned her if she so desired.

Words that she knew deep inside were true as Catherine sat with her and talked to her. That despite everything that had happened and would happen to her, she was Loved, and was valued enough to be given that chance, that free choice to accept Love and Grace and Forgiveness.

The last day before Mutti had come to retrieve her and take her to Moulbaix, she remembered the final words said to her by Catherine.

A gentle touch of fingers on the Adler und Hakenkreuz(Swatiska and Eagle) of her hilt. "Know that the road ahead of you shall be long and painful, as it has been for me, as it is for us all who were born into the slavery of sin. But also know that you shall never have to walk it alone and unaided, for God and my prayers shall be with you every step of the way, should you be willing to ask for His Forgiveness and Grace to uplift and strengthen you. Until God sets our paths to cross again, Godspeed, petite dague d'honneur."(Little Honor Dagger)

When she manifested at long last, she had barely remembered Catherine's words and care and compassion for her. Whispers scarce indistinguishable from those of her conscience and devotion to honor.

Until now.

Until her path had once more crossed the woman who had helped set her feet on the path of true honor that she was striving to walk along.

Tears trickled from the steel blue eyes of a young dagger who had experienced far far too much of the evils of the world in her short life. At last she dimly understood that her unceasing desperate struggles against the darkness in her heart, of the evils that she had faced alongside her family, of her heritage and past would not be in vain for she did not stand alone. She would never walk truly alone down her rocky road to salvation. Ehren's lips opened and she whispered in German too quietly to be heard, "{Thank you so very very much, Catherine. I don't deserve the gift you gave me, but I treasure it nonetheless.}"
------------------------

Spoiler: Catherine and Colombe

Catherine smiled at Colombe as the rapier knelt before her. She shook her head in a gently chiding motion, like a mother smiling at the mess her young child had made of a flowerbed to pick a blossom.

"{That is not necessary, Colombe.}" Catherine said in French as she placed a hand on Colombe's elbow and guided her to her feet. "{I am not worthy of your veneration in that way; I am merely a servant of a greater Servant. You have done as much for France as I ever have.}"

Colombe nodded hesitantly and then swallowed, "{But...}" A gentle finger on her lips shushed her.

"{You bled in defense of France at Sedan and the Meuse, willingly walked into the maw of Verdun twice to defend France, fought when all hope was nearly lost in the Resistance in Occupied France, and helped to liberate Paris in 1944.}"Catherine said with a knowing smile. "{While I have not set foot in Ma Patrie since I fled with Marie Angeline Potter in my arms during the Revolution.}" She sighed and looked sad. "{Such terrible days, and such a great tragedy.}"

Colombe sighed deeply and tears filled her eyes. "{I lost my sister Marie-Claire and all but one of her family to the Terror and the madness of the sans-culottes(without Pants) in the mob.}" Then her lips flickered in a smug but sad smile, "{I regret many things in my long life, but my only regret about that black day is that there were those I could not save at the time no matter what the Committee of Magical Safety and the Committee of Public Safety thought of me and mine afterward. I'm proud to be called a whore of an aristo and a danger to the Revolution in the warrant for my arrest.}"

Catherine smiled with mixed sadness and pride in agreement, "{Just as I have framed the letter from Robespierre telling me that I was a traitor to France deserving execution if I were to return and my Mistress would be ashamed of me to have rescued an innocent girl from the mob. A girl whose only 'crime' was to be born a Potter whom I delivered to safety with her cousins in England. Truly 'Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of Man's sake.' I have my own regrets, but no, never that choice to save a scared young girl.}"

Colombe nodded sadly. "{After all, there was no other choice worthy of the Word at all in the end.}"

Catherine smiled and looked at the visibly shocked Ehren. "{I see she manifested at long last. You have done well in raising your daughters, Colombe.}"

Colombe shook her head and laughed wryly. "{Heaven knows I try.}"
------------------------

Colombe looked over at Tsukiakari in the passenger seat of the minivan as Ehren got in last and closed the rear door behind her. "So the eatery where you made lunch reservations has a piano that the patrons can play in the lounge?"

Tsukiakari nodded, "Oh yes, I thought considering Claire that would be a nice treat for us all."

"She will love it." Colombe looked in the rear view mirror as she adjusted it.

Directly behind her Catherine and Tokunotakai sat in the first row of seats with Ehren joining them. The miko and the saint's blade were in deep conversation about theology judging from the murmur of voices.

Behind them, Claire sat next to Juuchi with Kensho on her lap. The piano nodded at something the young blade said as Kensho pointed out the window.

Finally in the back Harry sat sandwiched between Verniy and Maruyu who were resting their heads on his shoulders as they talked, with his arm around their waists. Colombe sighed slightly at the happy smiles on their faces since she could read the signs plain as day.

Colombe lowered her voice and spoke to Tsu. "He has Ian's way with the ladies, I see."

Tsukiakari laughed and responded equally quietly as the van pulled out. "Left here. Oh yes, he has an abyssal, a kitsune, and just over a dozen and a half shipgirls after him. All of whom are interested in sharing."

Colombe barked a laugh as she made the indicated turn. "I suppose the early bird gets the worm, or in this case, the early girls get the Potter. I had some slight hopes that one of my daughters would wed in to continue the bloodline and also because of the debt I owe Ian and Lyra that you know about. Plus, he is a fine catch for them, but... it seems that he is taken. Pity, since he is a very good one by all indications with what I have seen and heard. Oh well, c'est la vie." The rapier then smiled devilishly as she continued, "I know what set of memories of mine to give him as a wedding present though, they shall be of use to satisfy the ladies in his life."

Tsukiakari laughed, "It can't hurt once he is old enough for them and also some of Lyra's diaries and journals. You did extract the other memories? He really desires to know about his family since he was orphaned."

Colombe nodded, "Memories of Ian, Lyra, Henry, and also the German Potters such as Johann and Karl that I knew along with some of Gabriel during my scapegrace school days in Beauxbatons, yes. It is the least I could give him for all that his family has done for me."

 

[darthcourt10]

Harry Leferts

The stream gently burbled as the waters in it tumbled downhill towards what destination met it. And, at the banks of the water, a Jorogumo was looking out into the forest with a far off expression. One that stated that she was deep in thought.

However, a good sign of what those thoughts could be was in fact her hands as they were clenched until the knuckles were white.

Suddenly, she jumped as a hand came down on her shoulder, "Hey, Moeka-Chan, you alright?"

Lightly blushing, the Jorogumo turned to a blue skinned female Oni that was there before looking away. When she spoke though, it was in a quiet voice, "Um... hai, I am, Ran-Chan."

Rolling her eyes, the Oni crossed her arms, "Bullshit." She glared around them as if the problem was there and she wanted to kick its ass. Satisfied that her imaginary opponent was defeated with her glare, she turned back to her friend, "Hey now, we've been friends for how long now?"

Lightly scratching her cheek, Moeka looked away again, "Um... since we were little kids."

The Oni grinned at that and nodded, "Exactly! I remember seeing you back then, all shy and stuff while avoiding the other children despite them making comments. So I went and introduced myself-"

Her lips twitching a bit, Moeka bit back a giggle, "You came up behind one of the boys insulting me, kicked him into the ground, before placing your foot on his head and grinding it into the mud. Then you told me your name."

If anything, that made Ran grin all the wider, "Damn straight! That's how we Oni introduce ourselves!" She then gave a shrug, "Anyways, I decided to make friends with that shy Jorogumo." Poking her, the Oni gave her a look, "And help her out however I can, I told you that, remember?"

Still blushing, Moeka nodded, "Hai, I do." Another giggle escaped her, "Kind of hard not to remember that."

Smirking, the Oni laughed, "I imagine not! I'm unforgettable after all!" Getting another giggle, Ran poked her friend in the side, making her skitter away while squirming, "Now, what's got you all glum, chum. Better tell me, or else I'll tell my Nii-San all about the crush you have on him~"

That got a gasp before Moeka looked around quickly, "Ran-Chan! Don't you dare!"

Eyebrow raised, Ran gave her a look, "I still don't understand why you like him. Guy's thick up here."

She tapped her head and her friend puffed out her cheeks as she placed her hands on her hips, "He is not!" Looking away with a blush, Moeka huffed a bit, "He's... just the strong, silent type. You know? The one who doesn't need to go on about things..." She shot her friend a glare, "Unlike some people that I can name."

More amused than anything, Ran buffed her nails on her canvas shirt, "Uh-huh." With a shrug, she made a gesture with her hand, "Well, I'm not seeing it and I've known him all our lives. But whatever." Reaching out, she tapped her friend in the chest with one finger, "Besides, I already told you, just ask and I'll hook you up with him! What are best friends for but that?"

Face bright red, Moeka looked away before poking her fingers together, "I-I... I can't. He wouldn't be interested in me because, um... I'm shy and..."

With a long suffering sigh, the Oni rolled her eyes, "Yeah, yeah, so you say." Cocking an eyebrow, she looked pointedly at her friend's torso, "He won't care about the fact that your flatter than a still pool, I've told you that."

Sputtering, Moeka flailed a little, "RAN-CHAN!" Holding her arms close over her nearly non-existent chest, something that always bothered her, she flustered, "I can't help that I'm not... not... not a mountain Oni like someone!"

If she expected that to bother her friend, she was wrong. Because moments later, Ran grinned and thrust out her chest before crossing her arms under her breasts to empathize them, "Damn right! Got a pair of Fujiyamas on my chest and proud of it!"

Holding her face in her hands, Moeka softly groaned, "How am I friends with you again...?"

Only shrugging, Ran snickered, "Because you needed someone to pull you out of your shell? Because I am just that great of a friend? Or you are just that lucky? Who knows?"

Looking between her fingers, the Jorogumo gave her a look, "You really are the worst..." However, suddenly, she grinned, "Of course... I can reveal your secret as well, Ran-Chan~"

Expression becoming horrified, Ran boggled at her, "You wouldn't..."

The Jorogumo giggled at that, "Oh, I can... if I wanted to, I could tell everyone how much you adore cute, small things. Like that squirrel three days ago that you grabbed and stuffed into your Fujiyamas? How was it?" Moeka, before the horrified gaze of her friend, held her hands together against her chest as if they were containing something and rubbed her cheek up and down them as well, "Aw, aren't you just the cutest little thing? Oh yes you are! Yes you are! Kaa-San will take good care of you, yes she will~"

Cheeks a dark purple rather than blue, Ran sputtered, "Y-you... dammit! Don't tell people that, it will ruin my reputation if they knew of it!" Scowling, she looked away, "I-it was just so damn cute!"

Noticing how her friend was reacting, Moeka chewed her lip some, "Sorry."

Grumbles escaping her, Ran turned to tell her to relax when she saw her friend with some of her bangs covering her face. Moments later, she made a choking sound, 'So... so adorable...' Moments later, she was stuffing Moeka's face into her chest, "Kawaii!"

Muffled sounds came from said Spider Yokai as she slowly blinked before pushing her friend away, "D-don't..."

Once more, Ran had a smirk on her face as she chuckled, "What? I can't help it that you are adorable." Shaking her head at her friend's pout, she pointed at the Jorogumo, "Like right now as a matter of fact."

Unable to help her blush, Moeka looked away, "Shut up..."

Still smirking, the Oni snickered some, "I still can't believe it. You're practically an adorable little wall flower of a spider... until someone is hurt. And then BANG!" She punched one fist into her palm with a smack which caused her friend to jump, "It is like you're an entirely different Jorogumo! One who won't take no for an answer and who can make an Onikuma shrink before you as you begin to bandage them up."

Heavily blushing, Moeka held her face in her hands, "I don't know... It is just who I am..."

Amused, Ran threw an arm over her friend's shoulders, "True enough, and that makes you all the more awesome." Becoming serious once more, she frowned, "Which is why I'm wondering what is wrong. What? Is Tadashi-Ojii hitting on you again? Because he does adore you..."

Quickly, the Jorogumo shook her head though she lightly blushed at the reminder of what the old Tsuchigumo had said. Among other things, that she was an Tenshi from the heavens. Despite being much older, he did flirt with her... and some of the other women in the Reserve.

Some of whom referred to him as the "Dirty Old Spider".

But that said, despite that, Moeka found him a sweet old man... spider, who often spent time telling stories to the various children. Like how he had lost one of his eyes to a Gashadokuro... or how the cleaver stuck in his head came from a honour duel with a powerful Oni. Though once, when drunk, he had admitted that he lost that eye due to the cleaver that his Oni brother-in-law had used when said Yokai found out that he had knocked up his sister. Something that always made him morose as he didn't know to this day what happened to his wife and children after he was chucked into the Reserve after the Restoration.

Shaking that thought off, Moeka turned to her friend who was grumbling about old spiders being perverts, "Um, no... Tadashi-Ojii is not why. Though he is sad about... well..."

Only sucking her teeth, Ran nodded, "About you leaving the Reserve? Yeah, I can imagine why... you did save his life after that tree fell on him. A few more inches and it would have hit that cleaver stuck in his head."

Wincing, Moeka nodded, "Hai... I wish that it could be removed but... it's stuck in there and trying to do so might kill him." Only getting a hum, she shook her head, "B-but it's not that."

For a few moments, her friend was quiet, "Is it because we're leaving the Reserve? Because the outside scares you?"

Yet again, Moeka shook her head, but paused for a moment, "I... would be lying if I said that I was not worried and... a little scared. I've never been out of the Reserve, but everyone says that the outside is big and can be scary."

Walking up to her, Ran hugged her with one arm, "I promise, I'll be right there the whole way. Ain't nothing going to happen to you as long as I am around."

A soft smile on her face, the Jorogumo leaned into her, "Hai, I know." Lips twitching, she gave a giggle, "Though I do wonder, since you want to find a boyfriend outside. A cute one."

Lightly blushing, Ran huffed, "Look, can you blame me? All the guys here are tough and stuff. I want a smol boyfriend that I can hug to me and protect from the world. Is that so bad?"

Giggling with her hair covering one eye, Moeka shook her head, "No, not at all. And any guy would be lucky with you as a protector." As her friend nodded, she looked at the Oni's chest, 'Though he might worry instead about air...' When she giggled again and got an odd look, she waved it off, "Um, it's nothing."

Unbelieving of her, Ran cocked an eyebrow, "Uh-huh..."

Moeka then turned and looked at the stream, "But... it does kind of have to do with leaving. I already said goodbye to my Otouto and Okaa-San, b-but..."

Suddenly understanding, the Oni flushed in anger and narrowed her eyes, "Your Otou-San."

Looking away, Moeka's shoulders slumped, "Hai... he... he told me good luck last night, but... but I could not find him today to say goodbye. Okaa-San said that it is because he has problems with me going."

Growling, Ran glared at nothing in particular, "That asshole..."

Eyes widening, the Jorogumo turned around and waved her hands some, "He's... he's not, really. And he does love me after all and that is why he is having me smuggled out. So that I can be safe-"

Her own eyes narrowing, Ran scoffed, "After blackmailing those he knew were involved to get you out or else he would inform the Diet who they were. Sometimes..."

Closing her eyes, Moeka swallowed, "H-hai... and I know that he's disliked as Headman for the Yokai here in the Reserve. And that he never liked the smuggling, b-but that is because he doesn't want the Diet angry. Because then, those of us here in Nikko might be punished by suddenly food and such getting a cut. We're the 'Showcase' Reserve after all..."

If anything, Ran's scowl deepened, "Say it for what it is, we're a damn zoo that the Diet trots out to 'Show' that the Reserves aren't as bad as they claim. All of us just little display pieces for anyone to see. Look at the savage Yokai, living in their nice homes and tamed with good amounts of food. Now, move along, move along, no pictures, it disturbs them. We have a luncheon in the main guard's headquarters..." Turning her head, she spat onto the ground, "Bastards."

Twiddling her fingers, the Jorogumo nodded, "Hai... though because of that, we're better off than most. And Otou-San wants to keep it that way because he is looking after everyone. B-but because of what happened with me..."

Briefly, there was the sound of teeth grinding before Ran took a deep breath and calmed herself. Getting angry wouldn't help anyone, especially not her friend. Though punching Masao, Moeka's father, in his spider face would feel nice. Shaking that thought off, she scowled, "Still an asshole move."

Only shrugging, Moeka leaned into her, "He loves me and knows that... that the Diet might not react well. And there are also those who might, um... let them know to get back at Otou-San. So best that I get away before they can do anything." Getting a grunt, she sighed, "I wish that I could disagree with him... Especially after what happened in Kyushu. That frightened him."

Much as she wanted to disagree with her friend, the Oni found herself unable to do so. Ran knew that if the Diet ever found out... her friend was in danger. And very likely so was the rest of the Reserve.

But she was not going to let her friend go alone, as much as she was scared of the outside world herself.

Taking a deep breath, Ran let it out as she shook her head, "Whatever." Turning towards the Jorogumo, she continued, "You got nothing to worry about because I'm here and ain't leaving your side for nothing." Gently punching her friend in the shoulder, she grinned, "We've been through this much after all and I'm not about to stop now.

Relieved, Moeka blinked away some tears as she smiled, "Thank you, Ran-Chan."

Just waving her off, the Oni snorted, "Yeah, yeah, whatever." Getting up, she gave a grunt and patted her legs, "We should get going to the meeting with the guys getting us out."

With a nod, the Jorogumo got up only to pause as a voice spoke up, "Moeka-Chan." Turning, the eyes of both Yokai widened at the sight of the old wizard, "Good, I caught you before you could get going. Been looking for you everywhere."

Nervous, Moeka looked around, "O-Ojii-San? What are you doing here?"

Already, her arms were open to accept the hug she knew was coming, which indeed came a few moments later as he chuckled, "I just wanted to say goodbye to my granddaughter. Didn't think that you could leave without that from this old man, did you?"

Tears prickling at her eyes, Moeka shook her head, "No, of course not, Ojii-San."

Glancing around, Ran coughed a little, "As much as this is heartwarming, and it is... should you be here? Or even, you know, actually know what we're doing?" She frowned a little and gave him a look, "You are the Head Administrator for the Reserve after all, Yamashita-San."

Instead of being insulted, Yamashita seemed more amused by it, "Frankly, I could care less. Besides, who do you think will make sure that the guard rotations will make sure to have a hole for the time needed."

Eyebrows raised, Ran gave him a look of respect, "Huh... pretty dangerous that. If they catch you..."

She let herself trail off only for the old wizard to chuckle and give her a sad smile, "What will they do? Fire me? Throw me in prison for however long before Kyoto takes over or the No-Majs do? There's nothing that they can really do to me now." That only got him a nod of respect from the Oni which he returned before turning back to Moeka and reaching into his pocket to withdraw an envelope. Pausing for a moment, Yamashita looked at it before handing her it, "Here, it's not much, but..."

Confused, Moeka took it before opening it with her eyes widening as she gasped at the sight of the rolls of non-magical bills inside, "O-Ojii-San, this... this is too much."

When she went to give it back, he placed his hand over hers and pushed it towards her, "Take it." Lips curling into a fond smile, he nodded a little, "It's not much, like I said. But... it should be enough for a month or two as well as getting you clothes. There's also a destination in there for you that should help if my sources are correct."

Just sniffling, Moeka hugged her human grandfather, "Thank you. I'm so sorry about Obaa-Chan and you're doing this..."

Chuckling as he returned the hug, Yamashita shook his head sadly, "I came to accept a long time ago that your Obaa-San was only wanting one thing all those years ago. She wasn't interested in anything but that concerning a young guard and certainly not a serious relationship. But you, Moeka-Chan.... you're my beautiful granddaughter, as much so as any of my other ones from my human wife. And... it is time for me to make sure that you're in good hands." Hug tightening as he smiled, he chuckled, "Know that this old man is so very proud of you no matter what. And one day, the world will see you as the wonderful woman that you are."

Practically blubbering, the Jorogumo only nodded, "T-thank you, Ojii-San... thank you."

Soon after, they pulled apart and he gave them both nods, "Stay safe, both of you. And Ran-San?" When the Oni looked at him, the old wizard continued, "Keep her safe."

A smirk on her face, Ran gave him a snort, "You don't even have to ask."

Giving his granddaughter a final hug, and a kiss on the cheek, Yamashita turned and walked away. They stood there and watched as he disappeared before turning themselves and heading in the opposite direction. It took them almost an hour, but they arrived on time as the evening set in and they nodded towards the Nukekubi that was there, a recent arrival of just a few months. From what they had been told, her parents were paying for her to get out and they were somewhat last minute additions.

Not long after, they were out of the Reserve though Moeka looked back and nodded, "I love you..."

Back in the Reserve, Moeka's father was looking up at the night sky through bleary eyes and an empty bottle of iced coffee, "I love you, daughter... good luck."

 

[darthcourt10]

NotHimAgain

Well, here's a thing...

You know, I just realized that I haven't been naming my snippets lately. Um...
Strange Meetings

-----

The first day that Nemo went out to the mainland, Dana followed her about sixty meters out before pausing.

That's a lot of water, she thought.

She turned around, and went back to the island.
-----

The second day that Nemo went out to the mainland, Dana made it about sixty-one meters.

Yep. A lot of water.

She turned around.
-----

On the third day, Dana got to one-hundred and twenty meters. She counted it as a success and returned.
-----

On the fourth day, Dana followed Nemo until her older sister disappeared over the horizon. For a moment, she stood still, trying to figure out what to do. Nemo had been going in a straight line, right? That meant that if she turned around and just went straight, she should make it home.

On the other hand, if she went in a straight line towards where Nemo had disappeared…
-----

"Nemo? Nemoooo!!!"

Regalia looked up, scanning the area—the voice that she heard was a childish one. Was someone separated from their parents?

There was a small child running by, waving her arms. The motions were emphasized by the girl's grey hoodie, which was large enough that it fit her more like a dress than a jacket and hid her hands entirely.

A small Abyssal child.

"Hello there!" she called after the girl, who slowed, and looked suspiciously over her shoulder. "Do you need help with something?"

The little girl's nose wrinkled as she… well, it was probably meant as a scowl, but it came out more as a pout. "Do you know where Nemo is?" she asked after holding this expression for several seconds. Regalia thought for a moment. The name sounded somewhat familiar, but she couldn't place it… a Ne-class, maybe?

She knelt down in front of the girl. "I'm sorry," she admitted, "but I don't know who Nemo is. Maybe if you told me more?"

The little girl frowned, looked around, then leaned in close. "She's my big sister," she whispered conspiratorially, "but there's someone here who's stealing her. So I'm gonna make him give her back."

Stealing her? "That does sound bad."

The girl nodded. "The only problem is I haven't found her yet. And I've never been here before, so I don't know where to look."

Wait a second.

Regalia frowned. "Are you… lost?"

The little girl froze, staring at Regalia in rigid shock. "… No."

That was it. There was no way Regalia could leave her to her own devices. More than that, her older sister could be in trouble. "Well, then," she said, standing, "Maybe I can help you. Your sister is a Ne-class, right?"

"What's a Ne-class?"

"A heavy cruiser?" The girl remained blank faced. "Ne-class heavy cruiser…" she cocked her head to the side. Regalia bit her lip, trying to think of something…

She pulled her scarf up over her mouth.

"Ah-ha! Nemo!" the little girl crowed.

"Yes!" Regalia exclaimed, "If she's a Ne-class, maybe I can find her. My name is Regalia, what's yours?"

"Dana!"
-----

Well, this should be interesting. Next scheduled snippet... Hmm. I wanted to do something with the Select, but I'm not sure if I should move directly to Olivia McKay, or put something in to space things out. And since I have a working idea for the next Haruka and Minato snippet...

Well what do you think, sirs?

Edit: The title is no good. I'll have to rethink it.

 

[darthcourt10]

Yellowhammer

A.N.-It's not fair to Harry to tie up his primary characters if I decide to walk away from SB, so....

A Belgian Butterknife's Japanese Vacation (XIV)

14 July 2014

Sunrise Oceanview Lounge, Yokosuka, Japan
Spoiler: A Lunch Date

Colombe parked the van in the parking lot of the six-story building and then looked over at Tsukiakari. "This is the place?" Colombe asked quietly.

Tsukiakari nodded. "This is the place. Reservations are in the name of Potter."

With that, Ehren opened the door of the rented van for everyone. Ehren then squeezed to one side as Juuchi hopped out first to head to the door of the lounge with Claire and Kensho following on her heels. The brunette piano gave her young cousin a smile and hair ruffle before taking her hand for the trip across the parking lot. Ehren fell in automatically on her sister's heels.

Tokunotakai and Catherine followed at a brisk pace as they continued their philosophical and theological discussion. Finally bringing up the rear, Harry was escorted slowly along by Verniy and Maruyu, each shipgirl having claimed an arm as the three teens laughed and chatted among themselves.

Colombe watched the trio pass with a soft smile on her face then turned to Tsukiakari. "He most definitely is Ian's great-grandson. I know that gift that he has to manage relationships and fulfill a lady's life as easily as breathing. He doesn't even know that he has it, does he?"

Tsukiakari shook her head. "No, no he doesn't. Although Master Ian gave him some advice when we met the Arashis."

Colombe nodded as she locked the van, "You mentioned that before and then after Verdun. They... are well?"

"For the most part, yes. Some deaths, of course, in the decades since Master Ian passed on. They would like to meet you, although not all of them will be there when you visit this summer." Tsukiakari smiled as they entered the building.

Colombe hummed thoughtfully as they waited for the elevator to their reserved lounge on the top floor to return to the lobby. "The Tsurara-onna, yes. I should plan to come around Christmas instead so they and the Yuki-onna will be present in the winter." She nodded as the doors opened and they stepped inside to take the elevator up. "At least I can make sure that my contact information is up to date and give them the portkey I prepared as an emergency escape mechanism. Especially with the politics in Magical Japan being so unsettled."

Tsukiakari grinned and punched the button for the top floor lounge. "Unsettled, yes, but in a good way for Yokai in Hokkaido. Tokyo has lost control there and Kyoto is far far more friendly. Also... the muggle authorities are aware and are taking steps to integrate fully."

"That is what Aunt Chisuheri said to me when we talked about it at the beach party, yes. Toku says so as well, so at least one burden off my shoulders unless matters take a turn for the worse. Keep me informed if the Arashis need help." Colombe spoke as she squared her shoulders when the door opened.
--------------------------------

"A Yamaha YUS!" Claire squeed at the 52" upright ebony piano sitting along the wall next to the window overlooking Tokyo Bay. Ehren facepalmed with a small smug smirk on her face as Claire hurried over to take a seat on the bench, totally ignoring their waiting lunch table and buffet in the private lounge room.

Never change, Big Piano Sister....

Juuchi took Kensho's hand and guided her niece over to the buffet line. Claire was, of course, oblivious as she played a quick set of scales with a thoughtful frown on her face as she listened to the sound quality and tuning.

Ehrne turned to the attractive young lady manager in a yellow and orange sundress who had guided them here. "My sister is a musician of some note you see. Music is her life." The manager smiled happily and nodded.

Then Ehren blinked as Kensho vanished to reappear beside Claire. The young child tugged her cousin's sleeve and said. "Can we play a song together, please, Claire-chan?"
Spoiler: Corrupting Cousin Kensho With Mozart

Ehren's face froze at the sly smug grin on her sister's face. "Oh yes, do you know the Alphabet Song in English, Kensho?"

No, NO! Don't you DARE bring up my first alphabet lesson with you, Claire! Ehren screamed silently behind her impassive face.

A broad happy smile and enthusiastic nod greeted the question. "Unh-hunh!" The kogatana began to sing "A-B-C-D-E-F-G, H-I-J-K-L-M-N-O-P, Q-R-S-T-U-V-dub-a-U-X-Y and Z! Now I know my ABCs! Mou, won't you sing along with me?"

Ignoring the 'I'll kill you for this one, sister' glare Ehren was shooting her way behind her impassive cool facade Claire hummed along. "That's the one. But one of my favorite composers wrote the music you sang to me. So I'll play a little Mozart and you sing..."

Ehren gave a soft sigh as Kensho sang along to Mozart's K.265. She then glanced over to see Catherine smiling like an angel as she stood out of the way and watched the piano and kogatana's duet (and the smirking Juuchi watching her nieces serenade her). Past them, Harry, Tokunotakai, and the shipgirls began to hit the set up lunch buffet self-serve line. Colombe and Tsukiakari joined them as the elevator opened again to disgorge them.
--------------------------------

Spoiler: Ehren's Talk With Catherine

Ehren took a deep breath and walked over soundlessly to Catherine's side, casting a privacy charm as she did. She lowered her voice and spoke in French "{Hello. I... want to thank you for what you did for me, Catherine.}"

Catherine turned and graced Ehren with a warm smile. "{You are welcome. It is good to see you have grown up at last. Ehren suits you as a name, you know.}"

Ehren blushed and looked at her shoes. "{Perhaps. I just... If you could tell me... Why? Why the conversations before I manifested? Why me? I don't deserve it.}"

Catherine placed a gentle hand on Ehren's shoulder and guided her into a hug. The Dagger stiffened and then relaxed slightly in the warm loving circle of Catherine's arms. "{Oh, you poor hurting soul. None of us deserve it, truly. Neither you nor I deserve the greatest gift that God has given us. As for why....}" The Sword of Joan of Arc whispered in her ear.

Catherine paused, and then chuckled slightly as she squeezed Ehren in the embrace. "{I recommend reading The Screwtape Letters by the theologian C.S. Lewis about temptation and sin. Specifically the twenty-ninth chapter and also Screwtape Proposes a Toast. You see, Ehren, we are, all of us, battlegrounds between God and the devil. A battle that rages in the human heart and soul until the end of days. In it, the devil can never create; he can only corrupt virtues present in that individual. The great sinners are like the great saints in that they have the seeds of great virtues granted to them by their Creator. One must have the wings to soar to the gates of Heaven to be able to fall to the depths of Hell, after all. What matters is not which gifts you, or I, or your mother or sister, or any of us are given, but what we make of them in the purpose of our salvation or our damnation.}"

Catherine released Ehren and looked deep into her eyes, "{Trust me when I say that I sensed some of the same seeds awaiting the proper time to bear fruit for good or for ill in your unformed spirit, some of the same gifts that God gave my Mistress when he formed her, when I first saw you. The devotion to do what you see as the right thing no matter the cost to you, knowing at the end of the road your death awaits. The courage to walk that road fearlessly and in confidence to the awaiting tomb containing your eternal reward. The strength to unflaggingly shoulder the burdens of your honor and duty willingly in the service of a higher cause than yourself. And perhaps most importantly, that need to grasp to something far far greater than your own self interests and petty desires that you desperately desire to believe in as a man dying of thirst in the desert needs water, or as my soul burns endlessly for God's Grace.}"

Catherine gave a happy smile as tears trickled from her eyes, "{My Mistress watered and grew those seeds into a mighty orchard indeed. She did what she did for the love of God and of France and I know deep down that she knew when she left Domrémy and everything she had ever known and seen and loved with a temporal love, her road would lead to her martyrdom at the stake and an imperishable crown of glory past the veil if she had the courage and faith to walk it. She wept for regret at leaving her home forevermore the first night, you know.}"

Catherine smiled serenely. "{That is why. After all, every soul young or old, man or woman, small or great plucked from the devil's claws to the side of the Lamb is a great triumph for He whom I serve, but how the Father of Lies must howl and beat his breast in impotent fury when one of the ones so richly gifted ascends rather than falls into his clutches. If you seek a touchstone, look to Faith, Hope, and Charity, Ehren du Chasteler.}"

Ehren nodded slowly with a thoughtful expression upon her face.
--------------------------------

Spoiler: A Matter Of Honor

Colombe walked over to Harry as he sat with Kensho in his lap by the window as Claire began to play another song. She gave a fond smile at her middle daughter then leaned down to ruffle her niece's hair. "Cousin Colombe needs to talk privately for a bit with Master Harry, ma minette. Can you spend some time with Cousin Ehren over there?" Colombe pointed at the blond dagger who was sitting alone and listening to Claire with a thoughtful pout on her face. "If she doesn't get a smile on her face soon it will stick that way and such would be a great traged---."

She then blinked as Kensho vanished with a sunny smile to reappear at Ehren's side. "Oh. Well then."

Harry looked at Colombe, "You're very good with her."

She shrugged, "I had the odd child of my half-siblings and then nieces and nephews to wrangle once or twice. I wished to speak to you in private for two major reasons."

He gave her a curious look. "First, Tsukiakari mentioned that you wished to find out about your family heritage. I have had dealings with all three branches of the Potter Family, and I had my half-sister Delilah take the liberty of using Legilimency to copy those memories of all the Potters that I have known so you can have them as yours." Her lips quirked as she continued, "the age-appropriate memories, at least. The others will come when you are older and Mademoiselles Verniy and Maruyu can assist you with exploring them; I see the signs in them now. I had hoped for one of my girls to assist you later on but... ahh... you don't happen to have a hidden talent for music?"

Baffled Harry shook his head. "No, what does that have to do with anything?"

Colombe nodded to her enthralled daughter playing the piano. "Claire shall only be won by a young man with a comparable love of music, I fear. As for Ehren, I just don't see romance ever penetrating the icy armor around her terribly wounded heart, alas. C'est la vie." Colombe shrugged. "As for these memories I shall gift you, I'm led to believe Professor Albus Dumbledore is at Hogwarts still?"

"He's Headmaster now, you know him?" Harry responded.

"Oui, he and I worked together against Grindelwald. A very good friend at the time and an even better man. He is one of the most potent Legilimens that I have ever known, a school of magic I've little talent at. I'm somewhat skilled at Occlumency to conceal my thoughts, but compared to a master such as Albus... no." She reached into her oversized purse and withdrew a crystal bottle the size of a brandy decanter with inscribed runes on the side. The interior was filled with a softly glowing ghostly white liquid and it was sealed with wax. "Give this to him unopened and Lyra's Pensieve if it has not been lost; Albus can walk you through how to activate it and use my memories in it."

Harry's hands shook as he took the bottle and all it represented. "Thank you!" he spoke with emotion in his voice and tears in his eyes.

Colombe smiled faintly, "It's not a tithe upon the debt of honor that I owe Lyra and then Ian for their selfless heroism, though." She turned to look out across the bay with a distant expression and unshed tears in her eyes. "When we met in 1899 I was a self-destructive wreck, only looking for a suitable foe to claim my life in a vain and foolish attempt to expunge my sins. Lyra and Ian saved my life which I valued then, and still value now, little, and saved my honor and my immortal soul, which I value beyond price."

She turned to look at Harry, "Know that no matter the foe, no matter the need you have, I and mine shall stand ever-ready to defend you and yours and fight alongside you. So I, Colombe d'Aubigny du Chasteler-Muramasa, do swear upon my blade and my honor."

Harry had a shocked expression at her words, "Surely you don't need to do that!"

She shook her head in negation with a gentle and yet unyielding expression upon her face. "I do. You may have read of the 47 Ronin in school?"

Harry nodded slowly, "Yes, I have."

"Know that I follow a similar honor code. I may be one of the last practitioners who follow the light of the dying embers of the past, but my upbringing, my oaths, my beliefs, my very nature bind me just as firmly as bushido did for any true samurai. Lyra and Ian did such a great deed for me that this service is the only way I can hope to balance the scales, for my life is but a pebble in the scales compared to the ton-weight in gold of my honor as du Chasteler." Colombe said gently but firmly. "Ehren and even Claire in her own way are of like mind and temperament. They know and accept the debt and stand as one with me in such matters." She smiled as the shipgirls approached from the buffet line, "Do not hesitate to call upon me if you need any assistance that I and mine can provide in the future, Harry Potter."

He nodded in understanding, and held the decanter containing the precious memories of the past to his chest as she curtsied formally to him then stepped aside to allow his friends to rejoin his company. "I will."

 

[darthcourt10]

NotHimAgain

Warning: Contains two characters with a rather poor understanding of philosophy and religion trying to discuss philosophy for a moment.
Faraway Harbor III

-----
Haruka bit her lip, watching as her companion ate almost mechanically. Hayami paid her very little mind, instead focusing on her food—what was left of it, anyway. Haruka's kohai had decent enough table manners, but she ate at an astonishing rate.

She was also wearing an old soccer jersey and gym shorts. Apparently, if she was able, Hayami eschewed fitted clothing with an almost religious vigor.

Back to the important stuff.

"You know," Haruka said thoughtfully, "that song you were singing earlier actually sounded rather nice. What was it called?" Hayami paused, fork already in her mouth, and stared at her for several seconds. She deliberately removed the utensil and chewed, still staring at her. Then, just as Haruka was beginning to feel awkward, she swallowed and cleared her throat.

"Every night I say a prayer, in the hopes that there's a heaven…"

"Yes, that one," Haruka confirmed, not mentioning the fact that the younger girl had only sung the one song. "I didn't know that you spoke English so well."

"I can't, I just make the sounds," Hayami replied absently, cutting a bite-sized piece of meat free. "It's called "Show Me the Way," by Styx. An American band." She raised the fork, staring at it as she turned it back and forth. "Whatever else you say about the country, they've got some pretty good music." Nom.

Haruka groaned inside her head, toying with her salad. The whole plan here had been to learn more about her kohai, but there was nothing that she hadn't already learned—Hayami moved at her own pace, was baffled at if not frightened by social interaction, and had no apparent interest in resolving one to the other. What could she come up with…

"So, what do you read when you aren't reading manga?" Please don't say light novels, please don't say light novels please don't say—

"Light novels, mostly."

DAMN IIIIIT!

"Otherwise…" Hayami actually stopped teasing her food. "Fantasy, mostly. Sci-fi. When I was younger, I would go through encyclopedias front to back." Haruka cocked an eyebrow, and she grinned. "Did you know that there are Shipgirl cultists?"

"What?"

"They don't really advertise, like Abyssal cults… or Abyssal cults, I suppose," Hayami smirked—was that supposed to be a joke? "But you know how it is. One moment the world is ending, the next there are sexy war ladies appearing to fight them off and actually restoring something that looks like normalcy. Apparently Shipgirls don't like being worshipped, but…" she shrugged. "People have never really cared what their gods tell them to do."

"I heard that man killed God," Haruka replied quickly, trying to keep the conversation going with the first random thought that popped into her head.

"Ah, but was it a cry of triumph…" Hayami raised her fork, "or of despair?"

The comment had been made in a slightly more… lighthearted intent.

Haruka ran over Hayami's comment in her head, trying to quickly resolve the context and the question. "I've read that it was triumph?" she said slowly. Hayami nodded at her and she continued. "Because if there's no greater purpose to life, then you're free to make your own meaning by your own principles?"

"Which is what I've always found odd about the statement," Hayami continued. "The man who made it lived in a… Judeo-Christian culture. Judeo-Christian-ish? According to that tradition, God created man with free will—that is, the ability to make your own meaning by your own principles. If, thus, man killed God for an ability he already had, what was gained?"

The two of them sat there silently.

"We're both probably misinterpreting that completely," Haruka pointed out. "I mean, we're not philosophers."

"Yeah, you're right," Hayami let her head sink down into her hands. "I just can't see triumph in death of all things."

"Ever cheered when a villain is defeated?" the older girl asked, looking askance.

"A few times. But…" Hayami took a bite of steak, chewing deliberately as she considered her argument. "But it's a little sad, you know? If circumstances were different, they could have been… better. Not just the ones that the author is trying to get you to cry for, but the evil ones. Not in… are we any better than the bad guys we face way, but… but maybe with guidance and care, they could have been…" she sighed helplessly. "What am I saying?"

"Not mourning the people they became, but the people they could have been?"

"Close," the younger girl admitted, leaning back, "but I don't think that's it exactly. I guess I'll just figure it out one of these days. Do you think we should ask for pie?"

And now any attempt to restart the conversation would be met by reprisal or closing off, Haruka noted with a put-out sigh.

But still, there was something. A story beginning to poke its way through her mind. Just a little more, and…

"Let me finish my salad first."

"But you eat so slowly!"

"No, you eat fast."

Hayami nodded to herself. "You know, that actually explains a few things."

I can't imagine what, Haruka thought dryly, and ate her salad.
-----

I'm never going to be a philosopher. I just can't read the books. Next up, I think I know what I'm going to do with the Mrs. McKay situation.

Well what do you think, sirs?

 

[darthcourt10]

Harry Leferts

Taking a deep breath of the pre-dawn air, Fubuki slowly let it out as she looked out onto the waters of Puget Sound. A small smile on her face, she turned to the Native American looking shipgirl beside her, "Are you ready to head out, Sequoyah-San?"

Lips twitching a little, Sequoyah gave a small nod at that, "I am as a matter of fact, Miss Fubuki." Rolling her shoulders some, she hummed, "Finally, I'm out of training." Pausing for a moment, the Battleship glanced towards the Japanese shipgirl, "But... perhaps a little bit of advice wouldn't hurt."

Head tilting a little, the Destroyer gave a small nod, "Nothing is shameful about asking about advice. The best that I can give you is to listen to your escorts out there, each and every one of them is experienced. If they tell you torps are in the water and what direction, don't hesitate."

Only nodding, the American nodded, "Understood, though I would listen to them anyways." She reached up and patted one arm, "These guns are to kill surface ships, Destroyers and the like are better at killing Submarines and the like.

Flashing her a grin, Fubuki laughed a little, "That is our job, yes. We hunt and kill anything under the surface." Both of them chuckled for a moment before the Destroyer continued, "So, you're going to be stationed in Okinawa from what I have heard."

White teeth flashed a little as Sequoyah chuckled, "That's right, Miss Fubuki. Though we'll be travelling as far as Yokosuka at least." She glanced to the side at another shipgirl, "But Chaffin will be sticking around Yokosuka for longer."

Interested, Fubuki turned towards the Essex that was standing there looking out to sea with her hands on her hips with a thoughtful look as the near darkness of the launching ramp made her normally brown skin nearly black. Like the Battleship besides Fubuki, though, she was one of the "Unbuilt" ships. Ones that had been ordered, but never built, though in her case when she was summoned she was at "SCB-27A" standard already with a few modifications. Granted, part of Fubuki was curious about her name as it had been chosen by said shipgirl, something about the Civil War the Americans had.

Remembering one particular bit of information, however, she gave a small nod, "I can understand why that might be."

Only chuckling, Sequoyah shook her head as she gave a small smile, "As can I considering some of what I've heard."

Both shipgirls grinned a little at each other before the rest of Fubuki's squadron arrived with Kana nodded at her fellow Battleship, "Sequoyah-San."

With a slight nod back, the Native American Battleship grinned widely, "Miss Kana." Placing her fingers right behind her ear, she blinked before nodding, "Ten minutes before we launch and join the convoy."

Just bowing slightly alongside her friends, and was returned by Sequoyah, Fubuki smiled, "Understood, you should join up with your escorts and Chaffin-San."

Sequoyah gave her a small salute before turning, "See you out on the waves, all of you."

And, with that, she headed over to where the various Destroyers and Destroyer Escorts were waiting alongside the Carrier that was also joining them. Watching them for a moment, Fubuki turned to the others there before smirking a bit, "I don't think that I need to ask if all of you have your own cargos secure."

Grin on her own face, Mutsuki shook her head, "Nope!" She shared a look with Kisaragi before chuckling, "Both myself and Kisaragi-Chan have experience carrying cargo after all."

Stretching a little, Kana nodded herself, "I have everything in my holds lashed down, Fubuki-Senpai. Nothing should move the entire trip, including the ice cream that I have in my freezer and the meat as well."

As Yuudachi chimed in as well, Fubuki smiled and then nodded, "Sounds good, everyone. My own holds are secure as well."

When they got the signal, the group walked down the ramp to the water and onto it, summoning their rigging as they did so. Heading to their positions, Fubuki glanced towards the convoy, only half of which were steel hulls, the others being shipgirls. From where she was, she could see Liberty Shipgirls, Japanese Standard Ships, and the like. While none were in the current convoy, Fubuki knew that some of the ones going up and down the coastlines were old sailing shipgirls handing various bulk cargos. Ever since the first shipgirls were summoned on purpose, groups had been also summoning any cargo ships that would also answer the call.

That thought made Fubuki grimace a little at the memory that, like in the last war she fought, it was also said shipgirls who made up the bulk of casualties. Yes, eventually they might be summoned again in a half century or so, but... hearing of each one always made her wince. Especially at the fact that the warships who had returned as shipgirls felt each one like it was a personal failure to save them.

Granted, that reminded her of one report from the Atlantic where an "Ocean Liner Demon" belonging to the Abyssal Princess named Porta had come to the aid of a group of cargo shipgirls. Despite herself, Fubuki shuddered a little at the description of what had happened to the attacking Abyssals. That said? She was somewhat thoughtful about the fact that Ocean Liner Demon had proceeded to grab the worst injured of the cargo shipgirls and carry them along until they reached safe port, where upon she handed them over.

Just shaking her head, however, the Destroyer reached their position before noticing that Yuudachi was looking at two Liberty Shipgirls in particular, "Something wrong, Yuudachi-Chan?"

Yuudachi frowned a little before turning back to Fubuki, "Those are the two that we're supposed to make sure reach Japan, right, Fubuki-Chan? Alongside the two Landing Shipgirls?"

Glancing at said two American shipgirls, who were Landing Ship-Tank, Fubuki nodded a little, "Hai, that's right, Yuudachi-Chan. Why?"

Still frowning, Yuudachi motioned with one hand, "Just wondering because I was watching as they were loaded earlier, Poi. They're carrying a lot of those small bulldozers and stuff. I mean, a lot." She pointed some at the two Landing Ships, "They're as low down in the water as if they had a full load of tanks!"

Voice lowering, the first Modern Destroyer leaned towards her, "There's a good reason, Yuudachi-Chan." Seeing the unasked question, Fubuki smiled, "All that equipment is items that the government back home paid for used and had refubished. They've been buying and moving them to the ports for months now because those are going to supplement what is being built back home for the work in the Yokai Reserves."

Eyes widening, Yuudachi blinked, "Poi... no wonder then that they want us to make sure that they get to Japan safely. That is a lot of equipment."

With a slight nod, Fubuki smiled, "Hai, it is. But all of it is needed, and this is just the first convoy with such." Then, she gave a small nod, "The Liberty Shipgirls are also carrying a lot of spare parts and the like for them as well not to mention parts for water purification plants."

Having reached their positions, Kana smiled, "Then we'll make sure that they reach Japan and be able to help out so many."

Gently patting her on the arm, Fubuki smiled back at her, "Exactly, Kana-Chan." It was only a few minutes though before the signal went out that the convoy was going to start moving towards the ocean, and later Japan. Internally, a thought struck Fubuki as she remembered something, 'I wonder what they meant about testing for future convoys though...?'

_______________________________________________________

Vulpine grin on his face, Genji let out a loud whoop as he bounced in his seat before the vehicle slammed into the muddy puddle. Instead of panicking as the water began to reach the top of the wheel wells, the Kitsune cranked back on the throtle and was awarded as the 8X8 leapt forwards, powering across the small pond before clawing its way out of the water at the other side. Letting out another cackle as the vehicle climbed over a small tree trunk and then a second, Genji shook his helmeted head, "Ain't stopping this fox!"

Several minutes later, he pulled to a stop beside Ken, with said human laughing at his friend, "Well, I think that someone is having fun."

Pulling the helmet off his head, the Yokai laughed back, "Can you blame me? This has to be the most fun that I've had in decades and I'm getting paid for it! Just to 'Test' vehicles in terrain like they might have in the Reserves."

With a small shrug, Ken shook his head as he looked at the mud splattered Argo 8X8 that was there, "Hai, same here. Whoever said that work can't be fun must never have gotten an assignment like this." After getting a nod, he raised an eyebrow at his friend, "So? What do you think?"

Getting off the vehicle, Genji held the helmet under one arm before running clawed hands through his hair between his two fox ears, "Well, besides being fun as hell." Both men snickered at that, "It would be pretty damn effective for getting around the rougher areas of the Reserves. Not in the settlements, of course, most of those have decent enough roads if made from dirt or gravel. But outside them, especially in the wooded areas?" He gave a small shrug, "You could use them to get around easily as you can cross rivers and the like."

For a moment, the human of the two considered that before frowning, "No bridges?"

That got him a snort from his friend and a shake of the head, "Not really. Maybe the main roads you got bridges, but those are usually logs joined together to form a bridge across the water. And during the times the river runs high? They're too damn easy to get washed out." Waving a hand, Genji frowned, "Some of the fords have large, wide stones with flat tops that you can walk across as well, but... once more, if the water level is too high, you're not getting across them unless you're either big enough to wade to the other side, able to leap the distance, or fly over them."

Both of them waved towards another member of the group testing the vehicles, this time an Oni on a three wheeled ATV pulling a trailer piled high with various things. Once the other Yokai was passed, Ken frowned a little, "I can see how that might be an issue. Dammit..."

Only sighing, Genji gave him a look, "What did you expect? You knew that most of the infrastructure in the Reserves is the same level as what Japan's was in the Edo Era."

Ken gave him a look at that, "I knew that, but I thought that they meant late Edo heading into the Meiji Era. Not from the time of Tokugawa Ieyasu!" That got him a snort before he shook his head, "Still... damn, that is going to take a lot of work."

Nodding slightly, the Kitsune snorted, "You don't know the half of it, Ken-San. I can tell you that it will very likely be worse than what you are thinking."

More than a little horrified, Ken boggled at him, "Worse? How!? It sounds like a third world nation from everything that I have heard and you told me!"

Expression darkening some, Genji came to a stop and looked at his friend, who he was happy was going to become an in-law, "For one reason and one reason only. It being Edo Era in level was back when there was actual money for infrastructure work in the Reserves. And even then, it was mostly just getting the cheapest shit possible and giving it to the Yokai to use themselves. The log bridges? Literally made by Yokai taking logs harvested in the Reserve and using nails bought by the Reserve officials as well as hammers to make. Back in the one that I was in, the local blacksmith would take the nails and reforge them as something resembling railway spikes, just to anchor them to one another."

It took a few moments, but the other man gained an even more horrified expression before placing a hand over his eyes, "Oh... fuck..." Running his hand down his face, he turned to his grimly smiling friend, "Which means that with all the cutbacks, the infrastructure has degraded even further."

Slowly, Genji nodded with a sigh, "Unfortunately true. We're on a countdown right now with the Reserves from my own experience. Either the Statute collapses soon... or the Reserves will fall apart entirely."

For a few minutes, the two stood there not saying anything. However, Ken then shook his head some with a frown, "We won't let it get that bad. The new roads and railways are already being surveyed as much as we can without those damn fuckers in the Tokyo Magical Diet knowing. The roads are easier to build since we can make them appear as if they are going to have a distance between them and the actual Reserve lines."

With a hum, Genji scratched his chin, "Good thing that we're getting iron from the northern Korean peninsula. That will got a long way with making the new tracks... and I imagine that the guys building the smaller locomotives are happy as well."

That got him a snort from Ken, "Trust me, you got no idea how freaking happy that bunch is. Same with Kawasaki as we're buying at least one of those hydrofoil ferries specifically for the one in the Ryukyu Islands to let people get back and forth. Though that one will need helicopters to land heavy equipment on."

Not saying anything, the Kitsune nodded some. Finally, after a few seconds of thought, he shrugged, "Well, at least the non-magical government is willing to spend the money, so that is something." Coming up to the office, he leaned to the side to look into the steel building set up as a gargage. Inside, he could see a group of Yokai looking over some earth moving equipment with an old, human mechanic pointing at various spots. Slowly, Genji smiled a bit as he continued to observe the lesson for a few moments, "Definitely something."

Also looking himself, Ken smiled a bit, "True enough, and the first class is set to graduate in a month or so, which should give us about two dozen Yokai mechanics, two dozen Yokai carpenters, as well as electricians, plumbers, and the like."

Lowering his voice, Genji smiled a bit more, "Hai, and they don't need to pay a cent for it."

Only shaking his head, the human of the two raised an eyebrow, "If that is what you call with the exchange being working for the government for the next fifteen years. Some might not see it that way."

Turning to him, Genji narrowed his eyes, "Some, but they would likely not understand anyways." Gesturing at the garage, he shook his head, "Each and every one of those Yokai are going to have jobs. Actual, well paying jobs that they will be able to live off of. Ones that they won't need to hide themselves for either. Hell, even after those fifteen years are up, they'll have the experience to get jobs elsewhere in those industries anywhere they look, assuming that the project to uplift the Reserves is done by then, which I very much doubt." For a moment, he paused and blinked away tears, "I... don't think that the higher ups quite understand what this will mean for us Yokai."

Just placing a hand on his friend's shoulder, Ken nodded, "They might not, but those of us on the ground? We do." Gently clapping Genji on the shoulder, he smiled, "Now, let's go and get some food into us. We're not being paid to stand around after all."

Snorting, the Yokai grinned, "No, we're getting paid to fuck around in the woods with various vehicles, fix them up, and have a beer at the end of the day." His next words got a laugh from his friend as they entered the building that was the main office for the site, "Best. Job. Ever."

 

[darthcourt10]

NotHimAgain

Hmm... what is this character's... what's writing her feel like?
-----

Three cans. That's all that she had.

Estelle turned them over and over in her hands, tracking down the tiny printed numbers on the sides and bottoms. All of them had at least three days left—good, because by then she would be out of food. Since all she had left to eat was baked beans of all things, Estelle quietly pondered the virtues of living off the land for a while.

Nope. Everyone got cranky when you lived off of what they thought to be their land. Cranky tended to mean nights in jail, and while people tended to be nicer to those of the so-called gentler sex, Estelle had known more than one entirely unpleasant lockup. Best to just keep following the shoreline—she was pretty certain that there'd been a town on this stretch of land since the last time she'd been in Argentina.

Though that had been before Blood Week. A lot of her old coastal haunts, the ones that hadn't ever grown into more than simple fishing villages, had disappeared after Blood Week.

A memory flitted through her mind, a dark-skinned woman with glittering eyes and five languages that she could curse you out in freely. The one who'd tried to take her to bed after she saw those bandits off (she thought it was bandits. It'd been a long time), and perhaps the only person who'd accepted that Estelle didn't want anything chaining her down with grace. She'd taught her Spanish instead, so that she wouldn't starve to death in the middle of a city somehow.

Her heart ached. Estelle didn't know if there was anyone up there watching her, but she whispered a quick prayer just in case.

Then she set about cooking some beans.
-----

Her eyes snapped open, and Estelle sat upright.

She'd been in her dreams again.

That. Fucking. Woman!

When she was younger, Estelle would have screamed. Shot off her gun at everything that wasn't her. Raved at her first, oldest, most hated phantom.

That was years ago, and three, four… five, maybe? Three or so guns ago. Estelle would give anything for one that she could just keep with her all of her life, but sooner or later it always got to the point where caring for it seemed to cost more money than getting a new one, and Estelle would sadly give them over to someone who could at least give her old companions the treatment they deserved.

Once upon a time, Estelle would have openly raged. Now she just rolled onto her side, looked at the dagger that was more her than this body, and pushed the seething anger out of her head. She wouldn't give that woman the victory.

She bit her lip until it bled, and told herself that where the tears were coming from. Something that stung for a moment, and would pass in that time.

"And does your heart believe that, mi amore?"

"I told you not to call me that."

Isla's laugh was a beautifully musical thing to hear that Estelle didn't think could be matched by any opera. "And yet, Estrella, the question stands."

"Does it really matter?" Estelle grumbled, looking up at the stars. "She left me, before I ever got to see her with my own eyes. You shouldn't cry for someone like that."

"Ah, mi amore." Isla leaned in against her back, wrapping her arms loosely around her neck. "I think you need

Stop.

Estelle bit down harder, fighting the memory away. Isla was gone, long gone, never coming back gone. It was just her and the stars, the way it had been since the beginning. She didn't need memories of what she'd left behind. She didn't leave the things she needed behind. She didn't…

She rolled onto her back, hitting the back of her head lightly against the ground. She knew this sky—the village was about a day's journey out. If it was still there, she'd be there with time to spare.

Idly, she wondered if she would have to sell them the whole "Estelle Solo" line.

(Star Wars was one of the precious few movies she'd seen, and the name seemed to fit her. You can't sue the impoverished, right?)
-----

So. There's a test run for you. Yeah...

Well what do you think, sirs?

 

[darthcourt10]

Harry Leferts

A hand on Ran's shoulder slowly shook her awake, "Ran-Chan... Ran-Chan, time to wake up."

Jerking to wakefulness, the blue skinned Oni looked around owlishly, "Wha... who?" Blinking, she turned to the somewhat amused Jorogumo beside her, "Moeka-Chan? What's going on?"

Unable to help herself, Moeka giggled softly before glancing at the other occupant whose body was attempting to grab her floating head, "Um, well, we're here."

It took a few seconds for that to filter in, but Ran sat up straighter and looked around, "Wait, we are? We're, uh... wherever it is that we're supposed to be going?" At the nod, she grinned a bit and stretched, "About time!"

Humming, Moeka nodded as she thought back over their trip. It should have been short, but with how the Tokyo Diet had been cracking down on things, the trip was anything but. The drivers of the van had taken turns, driving back and forth over what seemed like most of Honshu. From mountain passes to tunnels, to small towns which were bigger than anything that the two Yokai born in the Nikko Reserve had ever seen before.

Granted, they were confused when, upon saying that, the Yokai smugglers and the Nukekubi, who they found out was named Yuhime, had giggled at them.

Still, the van barely stopped and only for washroom breaks or for them to break out meals from a prepared bento. After all, they did not want any Diet Aurors stumbling across them. Though the three Yokai were thankful for the fact that the van was comfortable with what seemed like cushioning charms added to the already plush seating. According to the drivers, it was a lot better than back even in the early nineties when they mostly used old school buses or had Yokai run through the woods until they got to a portkey.

But, finally, they had reached their destination wherever that actually was. Looking out the window, Ran's jaw dropped at the sight of the absolutely massive buildings rising up towards the sky. It was early morning, which meant that some of them had lights on showing people living or working in them. Most of the first, however, had heavy curtains to block out as much light as possible. There was still a war going on after all.

All that said, just the sight took the breath away from Ran as well as Moeka. Never before had they seen such large buildings or so many people crammed into one spot. And not just in the buildings either as, despite the early hour, there were already people moving around, going to work, for jogs, and the like. From behind the dark tinted windows, the Yokai watched as a teen walked out from a lit store with a bottle of something in his hands before he hopped onto his bike and drove off.

Interested, both Ran and Moeka watched him pedal down the road before he was out of sight.

More and more of the city was revealed to the two as they silently looked out in awe, especially as they drove up a hill. In the distance, they could see the harbour as the sky lightened. Having never seen the sea before, or any body of water bigger than a small lake, Ran boggled at all the water before her, "It's... huge..."

Very slowly, Moeka nodded a little, "Hai, it is."

The two shared a small smile before turning their heads to look out the windshield as they were now in the suburbs of the city. Coughing, Ran waved her hand around a little, "So, uh... where are we? I mean, there's a lot of people out there."

Glancing in the rearview mirror, the Itachi driving them smiled a little with a chuckle, "We're in Yokosuka and there's about four hundred thousand living in the city." At their wide eyed looks, he gave a small shrug, "The Diet has been staying out of the cities around the bases where shipgirls are summoned. Memory charms and the like don't work there after all."

Her voice nearly a whisper, Yuhime gave a small nod, "I remember Tou-San telling Kaa-San and myself that." Blinking away some tears, she sniffled a bit, "I-I miss them..."

Expression soft, Moeka reached over and gave her a one armed hug, "Maybe you'll see them again. With the Diet falling apart..."

From the front seat, the Itachi nodded, "Not to mention that the Statute is also falling apart. Might be a year or two, maybe more... but no one is going to care."

Only nodding, Yuhime leaned a bit into Moeka's embrace as she gathered herself... before her head floated off her neck and down into her lap as she buried her face into her skirt with a sniffle. Reaching over, the Jorogumo only ran her hand through the Nukekubi's hair to comfort her. Over the trip, both her and Ran had found out the other girl's story. She had been born into a fairly well to do family and had grown up without wanting for anything. Despite that, she had not been spoiled or anything.

However... one day, while she was napping, her head detached itself and floated upwards. Her family had tried to hide it, for a time, but she was caught and her parents acted as if they didn't know anything with her being tossed into the Nikko Reserve. Yuhime had suspected that her father, who was a bureaucrat high up in the Diet, had arranged for at least being sent to the best of the Reserves out there. And now had paid smugglers to get her out of the Reserve.

The only thing that she had in her possession was a letter from her mother explaining things and that they loved her. But... that even though it tore their hearts apart, she could not come back home. Nor could they go visit her as they might well be watched. Both Ran and Moeka had felt for her and held her as she cried after reading the letter. And, even now, how her life had gone downhill had made her breakdown more than once during the trip. Each time, though, the Oni and the Jorogumo had held her.

Suddenly, they were brought out of their thoughts as the driver spoke up, "Okay, we're here."

Curious, all three Yokai looked out the window, Yuhime's head in her hands, and blinked at the sight of the small home which had an enclosed yard. Blinking, the Nukekubi looked over at the Itachi, "This is where we'll be staying?"

Just nodding, the Itachi pulled to a stop, "Pretty much. This is one of the halfway houses to get Yokai from the Reserves used to the outside world. Don't let the looks fool you, though, it is a nice place with expanded insides for the room. The walls are just high enough that if your disguises slip some, no one should notice." Turning the ignition off, he got out, "Well, get on your disguises, we'll get you inside."

Each of the three female Yokai looked at each other before they got out of the van, fully looking like normal humans if in old style, worn clothing. Soon after, they entered the home which, as was told to them, was actually bigger on the inside. Turning, the Mujina gave them a smile, "Now, while you're staying here the cover is that you're from a country village up in Tohoku and want to spend time in the big city before settling down. Any questions?"

Raising her hand, Moeka swallowed some, "Um, what are we supposed to do about clothes? I mean..." She gestured at herself with some embarrassment, "From what I've seen from people walking by... we don't fit in?"

Lips curling some, the Itachi gave her a slight nod, "You would be right actually. There's some Yukata to do for now after you have all had a shower or bath, whichever you might prefer. Later, one of the others, who will be female, will be coming by to take the measurements of your bodies to get an idea of your sizes."

Not saying anything else, he reached over and flicked the switch, with Ran taking a step back as the entry area was filled with bright light as was the hallway. Reaching over, she flicked the light off, and then back on. She did that a few times before giving a nod, "Huh... I've heard of the lights the No-Maj use, but... never something like this."

Humming, Moeka slipped off her shoes before transforming back into her true form. She was quite happy to note that the hallways and ceiling were high enough to allow for it, "Mm-hm... this is nice."

Unable to help himself, the Itachi laughed a bit, "It is, true enough. Now, if you'll follow me..."

For the next hour, they were shown around the house including rooms that each of them could take for themselves. Granted, much to the two smuggler's bemusement both Ran and Moeka decided to share a room. Both girls dropped off what little they had there before the tour continued. Both smugglers had barely left for a half hour before the three newly freed Yokai went downstairs into the "Basement" and into one room off to the side which had group showers. It was explained to them that sometimes large groups of Yokai might stay in one of the halfway houses and need it, not to mention larger Yokai such as Jorogumo due to their size. Sure, they could fit in a normal shower in human form, but... anything other than that was impossible.

Which was how Ran was found scratching her head in befuddlement as she looked at the dial in front of her before turning towards the other two, "So, uh... just to be sure here, this gives me hot water?"

Setting aside various bathing products, Yuhime gave her a small smile, "That's right." Moments later, her head separated from the rest of her body and floated over. From both parts of her neck came mist that obscured anything about the separation, but Yuhime's head floated next to the dial, "See? Turn this way..." She tilted her head in one direction, "Gets you cold water. In the opposite, warm."

A frown on her face, the blue skinned Oni crossed her arms over her chest as she tilted her head to the side, "Huh... how hot exactly?"

Yuhime's head had reattached to her neck as she pulled up a stool with a hum, "How hot do you want it?" Seeing her new... friend? Well, she decided that it was true enough, she smiled a bit at seeing Ran's confusion, "You can get it steaming hot if that is what you want. But I suggest that you start at between the red and blue and adjust it in either direction for the temperature that you want." Shrugging a big, she shook her head, "I'm having mine as hot as I can make it."

Lips twitching a little, Moeka nodded in agreement before softly speaking up, "I think that I will do that too."

Just shrugging, Ran plucked the showerhead as they were shown and held it before turning the knob and putting on the water. Holding her hand under it, she rubbed her fingers under the lukewarm water before going back to the dial and slowly increasing the temperature, "Huh... this is pretty neat."

Having filled her own bucket, the Jorogumo of the group happily sighed, "Hai, taking a bath back home was... a lot of work if you wanted a hot one."

Unnoticed by her, there was a small grimace on Yuhime's face, but moments later, it disappeared, "Cutting all that wood, turning on the fire... Hai, it was." Bucket filled with hot water, she dumped it over herself before shaking the water free of her head, "Puh!"

Also dumping water on her head, Ran let out a small groan, "Oh, that feels good... So we'll be able to have hot showers and baths as much as we would like?"

Moeka had one of the shower heads in her hands as she held it above her spider body and rinsed it, "Um, not really? There's a boiler here that will handle heating the water, b-but while industrial sized, it can run out."

Frowning for a moment, her Oni friend shrugged her shoulders, "I guess that is true enough. Still, better than back home." Having noticed her friend had soaped up a cloth, she stood with a grunt and walked over, "Want me to give you a hand with the rest of you?"

Expression lighting up, though she had a small blush, Moeka poked her fingers together, "Um, I wouldn't mind it that much, Ran-Chan. But only if you don't mind..."

Only rolling her eyes, Ran flicked the Jorogumo's arm, "Dummy, of course I don't mind." Walking over to where there was a stiff bristle brush, which had been brought specifically due to there being a Jorogumo living there, the Oni squeezed out some body wash and started scrubbing at Moeka's exoskeleton, "There we go, rub a dub, three Yokai in the showers and stuff."

Lightly giggling, the Jorogumo gave her friend a look, "Ran-Chan!"

She was not the only one to giggle as Yuhime also did before turning back to cleaning herself off. At one point, much to the other two's amusement, her head came off and held the bath brush between her teeth as she scrubbed her own back. More laughter ensued when she dropped it off at the side even as her headless body continued to scrub under her armpits, "Blah, ugh... I got soap in my mouth."

Moments after pouting though, Yuhime joined in the laughter.

Which was how the three were found an hour later sitting in the living room area of the home in couches with bowls of instant ramen in front of them. One of the very few things that they could make via boiled water. Chewing a mouthful, Ran gave a small shrug, "You know? This stuff isn't that bad."

Not saying anything, the Nukekubi just nodded as she ate her own cup of ramen while glancing at the small stack that was forming by Moeka, who was eating her noodles with gusto. Suddenly though, all three froze as a wave of dark power washed over them. None of them moved for a few moments before Ran stood up and got between her friends and the general direction of where it had come from, and vanished as quick as it had appeared. Shivering, Yuhime found herself being held by Moeka gently, "W-what was that?"

Only blinking, Moeka frowned a little, "I... I don't know. Though it felt like it came from that direction?" She pointed towards where she knew the harbour was, in particular where she knew the naval base lay, "But I don't know what it was."

For several minutes, they stood there, but finally the Oni of the group grumbled a bit and went back to eating, "If it is down by the water, the shipgirls will take care of it. None of our business."

Granted, she shot a look at Moeka who gave a slight nod back before the spider Yokai held Yuhime close and got her to start eating again though she was curious as to what had caused that wave of power still.

 

[darthcourt10]

Yellowhammer

A Belgian Butterknife's Japanese Vacation (XV)

14 July 2014

Sunrise Oceanview Lounge, Yokosuka, Japan
Spoiler: Hoppou And Friends!

"Big Brother!" Colombe's head snapped around from where she was talking to Juuchi by the window. Three small figures shot out of the elevator and sprinted across the floor toward a grinning Harry with a fourth one following with a huff and adorably grumpy pout.

Her aunt smugged and responded like she was calling the Kentucky Derby, "Ahh, the munchkin brigade arrived at last! That is Hoppou by three lengths in the lead, Rei and Asuka battling for second neck and neck with Seiko bringing up the rear."

Claire, meanwhile, seamlessly shifted to a lighthearted upbeat piano cover of "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious" as a ghostly double of her formed to play the piano in a four-hand duet.

"Hoppou!" Harry grabbed the Abyssal Princess in mid leap, spun her around in the air to giggles of glee and a squeal of 'PO!' and then set her down. He then staggered as Rei and Asuka pounced on him with a tacklehug.

'Hmmpf!" Seiko said with an adorable pout before dashing in unobserved to give a hug of his leg and then retreating to a safely standoffish distance.

The Grumpiest One then blinked as Kensho vanished from the side of a now smiling Ehren to give her a hug. "Mou! Seiko-chan! You came! I have cousins! This one's a piano and she's a dagger!" The littlest Muramasa pointed at Claire and then Ehren as the dagger stood up to follow her.

Seiko pouted a bit at Kensho with a hidden twinkle in her eyes. "Hmmph, she's playing a piano at least, Kensho-chan."

Colombe gave a slightly watery smile at the byplay. She lowered her voice. "He's going to make a very good father, just like Ian, Aunt Juuchi. I can remember my Papa treating me and my half-siblings just like he is."

Juuchi smugged back quietly, "If I have anything to do with it, he shall. For am I not the greatest trainer of Potters? Ahh there's Kansha and Natsumi."

A teenager Harry's age dressed in a floral yukata and already showing the signs of what promised to be an extraordinary mature beauty followed the charge of the junior children. Beside her, a boy a few years younger than harry slouched in with his hands in his pants pockets and proudly showing his 'IRON CHEF' T-shirt off.

Colombe chuckled. "I see I'm older than my uncle, at least our avatars are." Juuchi gave a smug smile and laughed in turn as the two teenagers approached them.

Natsumi approached her and bowed. "Ono Natsumi-san, du Chasteler-san."

Colombe curtsied in response, "Enchanté, Mademoiselle Natsumi Ono. I am Colombe d'Aubigny-Muramasa du Chasteler. Please, Colombe to my friends. Bonjour, Uncle Kansha."

"Yo. Never would have thought Norimune of all people would have a daughter with actual manners. Heard from Suisei that you have a dagger as a daughter?" Kansha replied as he extended a hand for Colombe to shake.

Colombe chuckled and pointed at Ehren who was kneeling and talking to Seiko and Kensho. "My daughter Ehren there. She just manifested not even two years ago. Her older sister Claire is playing piano, although you may have to drag her away by force to get to know her. Music is her life and passion."

Natsumi glanced at the elevator as it showed it was descending to the lobby and her lips quirked in a sly smile. "Does Claire take requests?"

"Oh most definitely!" Colombe responded and then blinked at the vulpine grin that Natsumi got as the two-tail kitsune turned on her heel. "She reminds me of Yuying... and I am not sure if that is a good thing or a bad thing." Colombe finished as she looked at Natsumi.

Natsumi hurried to Asuka's side and whispered in her ear. The younger kitsune got a devilish smirk and then hastily grabbed Rei. Another whispered consultation and enthusiastic head nodding followed and then the three kitsune split their huddle. Asuka whispered to Harry who started to laugh and nod while Hoppou gave Asuka a mittened high-five. Maruyu and Verniy both got sly smirks and nodded to agree with whatever was being discussed. Rei meanwhile headed to Ehren, Kensho, and Seiko. The grumpy abyssal pouted and then nodded reluctantly. Kensho looked at Ehren who nodded and patted her head with her own coolly smug smile. Ehren then pulled her phone out before moving clear of the area.

Meanwhile, Natsumi spoke to Claire who gave a musical giggle and enthusiastic head nod at the explanation. From her position beside the piano, Toku's eyes got very wide and she began a suspicious coughing fit before nodding her head enthusiastically.

The elevator ascended and Natsumi clapped her hands and cast an illusion spell. The outfits of Claire, Ehren, Natsumi, Hoppou, Seiko, Rei, Asuka, Maruyu, Verniy, Tokunotakai, and Harry shifted into colorful futuristic jumpsuits.

Juuchi snickered and grabbed her phone as beside her Kansha groaned and facepalmed. "That girl..." The mutters of the Muramasa knife did not stop his own smug smirk or grabbing his phone. Colombe pulled out her own iPhone with a baffled look on her face.

Catherine gave a serene joy-filled smile and folded her arms. Ehren shifted to a position that she could film her sister and the children as they assembled.

The Elevator door opened and Nagato stepped out....

....to be greeted with a serenade from the assembled adorable children and teenagers dressed in the outfits of the crew of the Cosmoship Yamato. Meanwhile Claire shifted into a majestic and powerful piano theme backing them in perfect harmony.
Spoiler: Nagato Gonna Nagamon

"Saraba chikyuu yo tabidatsu fune wa, Uchuu Senkan NA-GA-TO!"

Nagato's eyes turned into blue spinning spirals, steam issued from her ears, and the Pride of the Big Seven fainted dead away at the sight of so much cuteness.

Colombe laughed hard enough to make her camera shake at the sight.

Meanwhile Ehren gave a small happy smile at the sight of her sister participating in a perfect prank that warmed her steel heart. Her eyes found Claire's and she gave a fractional nod and wink across the room, to be returned by a matching wink and nod before Claire launched into the chorus of Space Battleship Yamato's theme song once more.

 

[darthcourt10]

Harry Leferts

The view shook as the person who owned the Go-Pro ran through the damaged town, obviously the victim of an Abyssal attack. Just about to turn a corner, they froze as an Abyssal Light Cruiser of the To-class appeared. With a growl it focused on the human who stumbled back before falling to the ground. Panicked, the girl started to scramble back, with her pleading and crying being heard as the Abyssal took aim. Pleading for someone to help her, help that neither her nor the Abyssal expected.

Help, that came a few moments later.

A shout could be heard before a darkening shadow appeared below the Abyssal. It turned and there was a brief moment of utter shock and disbelief upon what counted for its face... right before a heavy steamroller held by a golden eyed Re-Class slammed into it, crushing it as the other Abyssal let out a shout, "ROAD ROLLA!"

Stunned, the owner of the Go-Pro could be heard over it speaking in an Australian accent, "What the fuck...?"

Before the dust had even settled, the Re-Class begun punching the steam roller's back, embedding it, and the Abyssal beneath, deeper into the road, "Muda! Muda! Muda! Mudamudamudamuda!" With over half the vehicle embedded in the road, the Re-Class threw her head back and spread her arms in a pose with a massive, sharp toothed grin, "WRRRRRRRRRYYYYYYYYY!"

For several moments there was utter silence as the Re-Class panted from where she was perched on the now wrecked steam roller. That was until the owner of the Go-Pro jerked and turned to find another Re-Class there. This one gave a small, shy smile, "Um... hello? We're from the Timor Fleet and we're here to help." She pointed at the colored bandana tied around one arm, "I'm Regina and that is my sister, Revina."

Said Abyssal appeared from seemingly nowhere with a cackle, "Oh yeah! That was totally awesome! You thought it an ordinary Abyssal, but it was I! Revina!" Planting her hands on her hips, she cackled, "Hell Yeah! Wait, you got a camera!? Oh sweet! Tell me that you got that, please! I want to meme it to hell!"

Utter confusion could be heard in the woman's voice as she answered, "U-uh... yes? I, um... did get it on camera?"

Pumping a fist, Revina gave a triumphant cackle, "Yes!"

Expression blank, Regina walked over to her sister before raising it and bringing it down in a chop between her eyes, "Stop that." Seeing the look her sister gave her, she returned it, "Lady Wanko is not here to do it."

Head tilted to the side as she continued to rub her forehead, the other Re-Class considered that before shrugging, "Fair enough." Then she grinned once again, "Still Awesome possum!"

Only sighing, Regina shook her head before turning towards the human with a small smile as she scratched her cheek, "Um, sorry about my sister... She's a little odd, but a good person."

Revina gave her a snort and waved a hand, "I'm only odd because I was made that way, not that Boss Lady wanted it herself. But I'm a good foil against you because that was how it was wanted."

Both Regina and, very likely, the human was giving the other Re-Class a look of confusion, though Regina's also had some exasperation in it. After a moment, the normally shy Re-Class shook her head before pressing two of her fingers beneath her ear, "We found someone about to be attacked and stopped it-"

Her sister spoke up at that point, "And did it in style~ Diamonds are unbreakable and we're all diamonds, baby~

Yet again, that got her a look from her sister before Regina took a deep breath and paused. After a few seconds, she nodded, "Okay, we'll get her to the extraction point, we'll be there in a few minutes."

As the Re-Class pulled her fingers away from where they had been just beneath her ear, the human spoke up again, "Um, just a few minutes? I was heading for one of the shelters, b-but if it's that close..."

Just shaking her head, Regina gave her a small smile, "Don't worry, I'll carry you there." With a quick, but gentle movement, she picked up the girl in her arms, the human's arms going around her neck, "Just hold on."

With that, she began to jog and slowly sped up as the girl in her arms could be heard with confusion in her voice, "Hold on? But why-Eep!"

Suddenly, and without any real warning, Regina pushed off against the ground shooting what had to be dozens of feet into the air. On the Go-Pro, a crater could be seen where they had been and which had been created by the Re-Class when jumping. Turning, one could see a roof of a parkade coming into view before Regina landed on it, jumping back into the air near immediately before landing on another roof. The trip continued this way with the Abyssal leaping dozens of feet in a single bound, perhaps hundreds, picking up speed the whole time.

Finally, they came into view of several dozen emergency vehicles with a shipgirl nearby and were falling towards the ground. Gasps and the like could be heard even as the girl with the Go-Pro tightened her grip on Regina's neck. But when the Re-Class impacted the ground, almost none of the momentum was felt by the human in her arms as her hooves dug in, digging furrows in the road as she slowed down to a stop. Then, Regina straightened and walked towards the nearest, shocked, paramedic, "Um... I think that she hurt herself and needs to be checked."

Blinking in stunned amazement, the paramedic stared for a few moments before shaking it off, "Uh, right! One moment!"

While the paramedics scrambled over with a gurney, Regina looked down at the human in her arms and smiled, "Don't worry, you're safe now."

She then turned back to the paramedics and walked over to meet them before laying the girl down on it. As she was wheeled to a waiting ambulance, the last image that could be seen was Regina and Revina talking with HMAS Perth, the shipgirl.

Just blinking, Aeroprin tilted her head before turning to Harry, who had been watching the video on his laptop, "Big Sister Regina is very cool, Very cool."

Lips curling into a slightly smug, though soft, smile, Harry gave a nod, "She is, as is to be expected."

Rewinding the video, he paused it at the point where she was giving a soft, closed eye smile at the human in her arms, the Go-Pro having captured her with the sun behind her and her tail rising just into view. For a few seconds, Harry considered the picture before rewinding it a bit more to just after she had picked up the girl. In that picture, Regina had a serious expression in her face and her tail was raised as if to dare anyone try and harm the person she was carrying.

Humming, Harry rubbed his chin in thought, 'I wonder if I can get blown up pictures of that...?'

Sunny Honey was also looking at the video before furrowing her eyebrows, "Uncle Harry? Was Miss Revina copying that guy on that anime? Um... the vampire?"

Only chuckling, Harry nodded some, "Jojo's Bizarre Adventure? Yeah, she was." Shaking his head, he snorted some, "Though I'm not too surprised that she would."

Each of the Abyssals considered that for a few moments before nodding in agreement. Nighty Moon blinked before tilting her head, "At least it was a good one? Not like that one anime which that Lieutenant wanted to watch when we were in the common's room. The one that you said was trash, I think?" Furrowing her eyebrows, she frowned, "Not sure how anime can be trash though... its not in the garbage can..."

Voice dry, Harry snorted, "Eiken is not trash." There was a beat and then he continued, "Calling it trash is an insult to trash everywhere. And if he dares shows you or any other Destroyer that..." The nearly fourteen year old closed his eyes and gave a soft smile as he hummed, "He'll have to deal with me."

All of the Abyssals looked at him in awe, 'So threatening! And just with a smile!'

With that, they quieted down as they stood there, Aeroprin and her Destroyers peaking over the countertop, only the top of their heads and eyes showing. Glancing at said Abyssal Princess, however, Harry noted that she was looking at the window and reached over to gently rub the top of her head, "Still worried, Blackie Smokie?"

Turning to look at him, Aeroprin gave a small hum, "Uh-huh..." She looked back at the window, "I'm worried about Mommy, Uncle Harry. About Mommy... she let loose yesterday and told us to stay away..."

Despite being slightly worried himself, Harry didn't show any of it as he felt he needed to be strong for the Destroyers. After all, seeing him worry might make it worse and after feeling Hoppou let go the day before and knowing there was some fear there, it took everything to not rush over himself. Instead, Harry made sure to comfort Aeroprin and the others and keep them from rushing off. Currently, he gave them all a smile and a nod, "I don't really blame you, any of you. But Little Sister is very, very strong. And if she says she's alright, I believe her." A ding could be heard and his smile grew a touch, "But how about we work on the cupcakes that we're making for her, okay? Hoppou would like that."

Brightening, the Destroyers all nodded and rushed for the sink to wash their hands as Harry walked over and put on oven mitts to remove the now done chocolate muffins that they had also added chocolate chips to the batter. Once they were out, they waited for them to cool down by making the icing under the direction of their adoptive uncle before spreading it onto the cupcakes. Then, they added some more chocolate chips on top before happily smiling.

For a few moments, the teenage wizard looked over the cupcakes with a discerning eye before giving a sharp nod, "Looks great, everyone!" Hearing a knock, he turned to the door with a blink, "I think that's Hoppou now."

Right as he said that, the doorknob turned and the door opened to reveal Hoppou standing there nervously, "Big Brother?"

Softly smiling, though a bit confused as he swore he had seen two red eyes peek out from behind the doorframe, Harry nodded, "It's good for you to finally be home, Little Sister. We made cupcakes for you after all."

It seemed that was the right thing to say as Hoppou relaxed a little. Then, she cleared her throat, "Thank you, Big Brother, Hoppou likes your cupcakes and knows that Aeroprin's as well as the others are very good as well! Because they are made of love." Each of the Abyssal Destroyers there stood up a bit straighter, but then the Abyssal known as Northern Ocean Princess continued, "But Hoppou has someone for you to meet."

Glancing at his adoptive mother, who was leaning heavily against the doorframe, the teenage wizard cocked his head to the side, "Someone to meet?"

With a nod, Hoppou moved inside a little and turned before motioning with one mittened hand, "You can come in now and meet Big Brother."

From just out of sight, Harry could hear a huff, "Not sure about this, what if he doesn't like me."

Just blinking her red eyes, Hoppou frowned, "You are being very silly, Seiko. Now, come and meet Big Brother."

Moments later, the two red eyes peeked out at Harry, with said teen only raising an eyebrow in curiosity. Then, their owner fully stepped into view and the teen felt his eyes widen a little. Mainly because, before him, was an Abyssal that greatly resembled Hoppou, right down to the two stubby horns and collar. However, there were differences such as the tattoo-like markings that ran up one leg and arm as well as the hands which resembled Wanko's own claws. Not to mention that instead of the dress that Hoppou had, she had what looked more like a shirt with a cat's face on it.

The bigger thing, however, was how she looked even younger than Hoppou did, seeming to be around five years old to Hoppou's nine.

Harry glanced towards his mother and sighed a little, 'That explains that expression on her face.'

Not even a second later, he sighed even more as he could hear Nagato mumble a little, "So cute... two Hoppou-Chans... very, very cute..."

Only shaking his head, the teenage wizard held back from rolling his eyes, 'Oh, Mum.' Shaking that off, however, Harry turned his attention to the little Abyssal next to Hoppou and crouched down, "Hello there, I'm Harry."

Crossing her arms with a grumpy look on her face, she turned a little away and mumbled a bit, "I'm Seiko."

Slowly nodding, Harry hummed a bit, "Seiko, huh? That's a nice name." Getting a shrug, he raised an eyebrow in amusement, "A little Grumpy Gus, I see."

At that, Hoppou nodded a little, "Very grumpy, Hoppou agrees."

Rather than do the first thing that came to his mind, which was to tickle her until she laughed, Harry went for his second response. Walking over to the cupcakes, he took one and brought it over before holding it out to Seiko, "Here, have a cupcake. They're good as well as nice and fresh. Hot from the oven."

Looking at him, to the cupcake, and then back, the little Abyssal blink. Slowly, Seiko reached out and took the cupcake. Examining it for a few moments, she glanced at him again and got a blink before she opened her mouth and took a bite. Chewing it, Seiko blinked and her eyes widened at the taste of chocolate against her tongue. Still not quite sure about the human, she noticed he was looking at her kindly. With a swallow, she looked away and shrugged, "It's okay."

However, she still took another bite as Harry chuckled and gently ruffled her hair, "Glad to hear it."

Meanwhile, Hoppou smiled happily, especially as she saw the slightest hint of a smile on Seiko's face as she ate her cupcake. Though she also sighed as Nagato collapsed to her knees muttering before pulling out a camera and taking pictures, 'Mommy is being very silly...'

Seiko, for her part, just decided to enjoy the delicious treat that she was getting as well as the headpats while deciding that maybe she could like Harry.

 

[darthcourt10]

baofengyu

The Mandate Pt 5
"Do not see every enemy as an enemy—see them instead as an ally, whether they know it or not."



Rongcheng, China

Desolate.

It was the only word that fit in Ying's mind. They had skirted the Korean Peninsula from the flight from Tokyo, avoiding many of the ICW watch stations as well as the normal JSDF and ROKAF sensor stations as they flew. Arrival at Rongcheng was uneventful, and her pilot did not linger long at all, retreating as swiftly as they arrived.

She shouldered her space-expanded pack as she looked around at the gray terrain. Everywhere she looked was ruin and desolation. Intelligence reports gleaned from the RCN reported no Abyssal presence in the area of the Yellow and Bohai Seas, but that did not mean there were not feral Abyssals roaming the area. The wind moaned as it echoed through the skeletal structures.

She began to walk. As the wind died a deathly silence fell. Nothing. No insects. No birds. No life.

Nothing.

Blood Week savaged the coastal areas of China far worse than anyone had imagined, and the hardliners in Beijing kept a tight leash on information that leaked out. A part of her wondered if even magic could restore the land, but in many ways, she saw the state of the land as a reflection of the Mandate. In some ways it was true that 'King' was the land, and a strong 'King' meant a strong land. Just stepping into the Middle Kingdom, she could feel the loss of the Mandate.

Her walk was unnerving to say the least.

She was used to the sounds of life. And this unnatural environment made her true form quiver in anger. This was a travesty and an injustice of the highest order. She could feel a great deal of magic in the soil.

The walk also gave her a chance to review her options and plans. Sooner or later she had to face Daji. Whether she makes the first move or is forced, that encounter was coming. This was inevitable. The endgame in this was to find the one to hold the Mandate, how she gets there is still up in the air. In every age it always came down to force of arms, to prove to the heavens that the one had the physical strength and moral clarity to seize and hold the Mandate. Daji seemed to be acting as the Arbiter of the Mandate, and she may have her own choices for the Throne going forward. The number of claimants was also an unknown, but it always seemed to come down to two contenders in the end. A 'Three Kingdoms' scenario was not out of the question, but highly unlikely due to the nature of current political structure. If Daji had complete control of the Hidden Ministry, it was also possible that she also had complete control of Beijing and the Central Committee.

A shadow flickered across the stars.

Ying stopped and crouched down, one hand on her true self and her wand dropping into her other.

Another shadow.

The temperature dropped.

duō cái guǐ.

Ghosts with Excessive Means.

Spirits that could, and often did, prey upon humans. Why these beings were here Ying could guess at, as this land was devastated by war and the Hidden Ministry could have placed wards to keep such ghosts from threatening the living. She touched her wand upon the earth and whispered a spell.

In her mind's eye she could see that there was indeed a barrier cast upon the earth, one to both keep the ghosts away from the living and to bind them to these ruins to act as guardians against intrusion. This could very well be the reason that Delilah's smuggler didn't like to come here. As far as she could tell the barrier stretched the entire length of the coast, and quite possibly around the entire borders of the Middle Kingdom, but she did not think it would have been necessary to do so. Land borders were not as threatened as coastal areas, but it was something to consider. She would not put it past the Central Committee to enact such a protocol as both a deterrent against external threats, and internal ones as well.

She slowly rose, her eyes scanning the sky.

They were everywhere.

With her wand she quickly whispered a stealth spell to hide her presence, although a spirit herself, she was unsure if the ghosts would attack her. With the number of Ghosts in the skies it would be best to stick to the ground until she passed this killing field.

So she walked.

Wendeng District was about forty kilometers away, and quite possibly the first waypoint on her journey.

She started jogging, slowly increasing her pace. There were only about six hours of night remaining. It would be wise to get to some secure position before sunrise. There were other things moving in the darkness, and Ying did not know how this barrier was structured enough to risk a prolonged engagement of any sort.

Six kilometers from Wendeng District she came across the ruins of a farm.

It was of the old Siheyuan style, modest, with one door torn away and the other rocking as if caught in a breeze.

Yet there was no breeze.

Ying sensed the presence of spirits, but whether they were friend or foe was unknown. Cautiously, she stepped up to the gate and opened it with the hilt of her sword.

Nothing.

She stepped inside and looked around, her wand at the ready. The spirits she sensed were here, yet distant, as if the souls were trapped and unable to cross over under the aegis of YanLuo Wang. It was only after ten steps inside she discovered the first body.

Her investigator instincts took over as she looked over the body. It was male, approximately mid 20s, thin, probably malnourished. There were no distinct wounds on the body, only an expression of abject terror. The duō cái guǐ were probably culprits, leaving behind a dried, mummified corpse clothed in rotting clothes. She ventured further into the domicile, using her light foot technique to make no sound as the crossed the broken pottery and rough floor. As she entered the main hall of the house, more bodies were present.

These were all women.

Not thin, starving people.

No. These women were svelte and well fed.

Young.

She looked closer with her spirit sight.

Virgins.

She stepped back and looked down. A ritual circle drawn in dried blood.

Dried blood. Not old blood, she noted. This was recent. No more than a week old.

She whispered a few choice curses on those responsible. Without a sound her true form stabbed into the blood, the calligraphy on her body burning.

"By Guānyǔ this shall not S̈̓TA̹ͤN̻͇ͪ̈D͕̥̀̆!"

She understood the nature of the barrier. Ritual sacrifices kept the ghosts and other spirits tied to the land, to act as both external and internal defense. Yet the sacrifices could also bring others, darker and more evil, to roam the land. Yes, this was the work of wizards, but as to the actual orders given, she did not know. This would also require investigation.

Ying pulled the sword from the ground and eased around the circle, finding a jumbled, yet secure room further in. She warded the room quickly before sitting in a lotus position. She reflected upon everything that had led up to this point, trying to remember every little detail that she had read about what was going on in the Middle Kingdom and all of the potential pitfalls that might happen on the road to Beijing. So much of the natural order has been disrupted here, and the wanton murder of innocents to create such a barrier serves no real purpose but to hide what is really going on. Is Daji truly behind this, Ying wondered. No. The Barrier is old, possibly from the time of Blood Week when the Abyssal War began. Daji only assumed power recently. Unless she acted through others.

It was possible, but without definite proof there can be no accusations. Daji's rise only came recently, but her previous modus operandi often had her moving behind the scenes and pulling the strings. Again there-


You may ask.

The scene changed to the familiar bathhouse. Ying stood at the edge of the pool as a woman brushed out her long black hair. A pair of fox eyes turned to look at her mid brush.

To answer your question, no, I did not create this barrier. This was done by some of the first Ministers of Magic under the direction of Mao. Mao feared an invasion from either the Republicans on Taiwan or a resurgent Japan. Later Ministers enacted other ritual sites along all of the Middle Kingdom's borders to defend the nation from possible ICW influence and attack as well.

"How did you find me?"

Find you? Daji rose from the waters, fully turning to face Ying. You are in the Barrier. This I know because of your anger. But as to where?

Daji closed her eyes and tilted her head. You carry an echo, but your actual physical presence is…distant.

"Why me?" Ying demanded. "Why draw me into this?"

You are a child of the Middle Kingdom as am I. Human. Spirit. Demon. All are part of the balance as demanded by the Celestial Courts. I will do what I must to ensure the transfer of the Mandate. You, however, will do as you must as well.

Daji vanished from the pool and Ying felt a delicate hand stroke her cheek from behind.

But I would have you at my side Daughter of Guānyǔ .

"Do not tempt me Demon," Ying frowned.

Daji laughed. It was clear, joyous sound, lacking the malice one would have expected from such a notorious character.

Oh my dear child, I have not yet begun to tempt you…


Ying's eyes snapped open. There was no daylight outside, and what little light was from the waxing crescent of the moon. A simple check of her watch told her it was late night the next day. Instinctively she checked her wards. They were still active, and nothing had attempted to penetrate them. Her charm was still intact, and it gave off a ghostly glow in the light of the moon. But it was no excuse to dally. If Daji could react into her mind then it would be child's play for the Vixen to realize her true location. She quickly gathered her pack and rushed outside, only to stop short at the entrance.

There was another person present.

They lay across the entry gate of the farm, reclining on their side, with one arm propped under their head while the other held a glowing green gourd. The gourd flashed and sparkled in the faint light, and every few moments the being took a drink.

"You are travelling, yes?" The man spoke.

He was dressed formally in a Hanfu, almost as if he stepped out of a period drama.

"And what is a pretty little girl like yourself doing out here? In such a dangerous place?"

"My business is my own," Ying replied. "Do not interfere."

"Ah," the man cried. "Such drive! Such determination! Would you care to join my Gourd?"

He swirled it around, leaving sparks of light as if a glowing galaxy. He grinned and slowly took a drink, a star falling into his mouth.

Ying paled, her blood turning to ice.

Those were not stars.

They were human souls.

"Demon," She spat. "Begone from this place and release that which you have taken."

"Taken?" The man floated down to the earth. "They offered these paltry things to me freely."

Dust stirred around him in four streams.

Ying let her pack slide off her shoulder and down to the floor of the farm.

"No one offers their souls freely," Ying spoke. "What lies did you utter to sway them? Did SHE send you?"

"What do I have need for lies? Have you seen this world? It is corrupt. Out of balance. A little kindness and humans will sell each other out. No. I offered nothing. And I take orders from no one."

Ying relaxed her left leg and slid her right foot out. Her right foot traced a quarter circle to her right and her center of gravity lowered. Her true body peaked from her sheath.

The Demon smirked, and almost casually raised its hands.

He attacked, streaking forward with hands clenched like claws. Ying pulled her Jian free and slapped the claws away, her foot snaking out and catching the Demon in the side.

The Demon laughed. "Oh, your soul will taste so sweet!"

She felt the manifestation of tails in the form of wind. A form of fox demon, Ying thought. Perfect.

She turned her Jian slowly, the flat of the blade horizontal to the ground and stepped around the Demon, her feet touching, yet not touching the earth. She let the hilt slip, the blade angling towards the earth as she pressed two fingers against her spine as the blade bent towards her in almost a perfect arc. Ying felt her back ache as the four faintly outlined tails of the demon tried to break her. With a flick of her hand Ying held the tails away from her with her Jian, in the other, she shook her wrist, allowing her other weapon to drop. The walnut of her wand slapped her palm.

"CONFRINGO!"

The blast launched the fox demon off his feet, slamming him into the wall of the farm and stunning him. She launched herself forward, her Jian leading the way. The demon moved sluggishly as it dodged her initial strike, her body spinning and dancing to not only evade the flailing tails as her sword slapped the demon's attacks away. He shook the lingering shock off and launched again into the attack, striking out with his free hand and tails as Ying slid back, her sword flashing as she easily defended.

Right up to the point where the gourd met sword.

She felt a lurch in her soul.

Her true body lost a touch of its sheen.

That gourd was an artifact. Something ancient.

The demon's eyes widened slightly in realization.

Raising the gourd, he attacked, racing forward.

Ying centered herself, letting the gourd close, before sliding out of the way and stabbing forward with her wand.

The demon's eyes stared into hers.

"DECRUSTO!"

The demon screamed as its physical form shattered, the gourd clattered against the earth.

She felt the demon try to reform, but the damage done was too great to it. It fled, the tattered fragments of its soul trailing behind it like a contrail. She looked down at the gourd. Touching it was out of the question as she watched the dancing lights therein. She leveled her wand.

"REDUCTO!"

The gourd exploded as she stepped back, and for a moment she was surrounded by lights. A faint wailing echoed in the distance. She raised her sword to the heavens and uttered a prayer.

Guānyǔ, hear thy servant and guide these lost children to the Courts of the Dead so that they may be judged…

Motes of light danced around her blade before shooting into the sky, gathering the lost souls within and disappearing into the night.

Ying fell to her knees. She sheathed both her weapons and steadied her breathing. The weight of the short battle was heavy on her. There was danger here, and the risks great. Yet she had a duty.

She stood and brushed herself off. Wendeng District was in the distance, and from there the way to the Forbidden City.



Ministry of Culture

"Minister, Wang Qingshang is here to see you."

Cao looked up from his paperwork. "Ah, good. Send him in."

A rather disheveled man entered the office, perhaps resembling more of a ambulatory shrub than a proper agent of China's prestigious Ministry of Culture. But he was one of Cao's best operatives along with Fong Chung. Who, Cao noticed, was suspiciously absent.

"Wang, what happened?"

"We were ambushed outside of Kowloon City. Fong was killed by an Abyssal as we were making our way from Hong Kong Island."

"That is…most unfortunate. Fong was a capable agent."

"Yes sir."

"Continue."

"Most of Hong Kong is a gutted wreck of a city sir. We spotted signs of some human habitation but nothing definite, and other signs that PLAN was in the area. We were pretty much unopposed in our search sir. The map we were given was old, but the information from Gornt was clear. What we seek is definitely in their vaults."

"Excellent," Cao clapped his hand. "You have the map?"

Wang withdrew a slightly burnt map that smelt of sewage. "I've marked know Abyssal routes and positions, as well as sightings of the ships from the rebellious province. The PLAN base at Ngong Shuen Chau has seen some activity as of late."

"Very good indeed Wang," Cao leaned forward. "You have done well and will be rewarded handsomely. Have you told anyone else of the discovery?"

"Th-thank you sir," Wang stammered. "No, no one but you sir."

Cao picked up the crossbow and shot the man four times.

"Sir?" His secretary poked her head in. "Shall I call Mr. Xiao?"

"Soon enough my dear," Cao replaced the crossbow. I need to plan this carefully, he thought. Xiao has been a good patron, but the information is worth much more than the prize he offered. Perhaps Xue could be of some use in establishing the veracity of the information. No.

He motioned his secretary to him. She stepped over the body and leaned in.

"Get me Admiral Li Han Shu."



Keelung Naval Base, Taiwan

Hua Yang, Lo Yang, and Nan Yang stood at the open hanger doors as they watched the team of Amphibious Reconnaissance and Patrol Unit Marines checking their kits as they prepared to deploy. The three shipgirls were not present for the marines, no, they were present for someone else entirely. A half a dozen MQ-9 Reapers and a RQ-4 Global Hawk sat on the tarmac on loan from the USAF for maritime monitoring.

She wore an elegant green Hanfu accented with white. There was an ageless quality around the Taiwanese Minister of Magic, and she never left her Ministry unless the situation was serious, and the three former USN DDs for the life of them couldn't fathom what would bring her out, only that their orders were to guard her until she returned to Taipei.

"Shàngwèi Cho Tsao," Lady Lǜ Sè spoke, her hands folded before her. "Are your men prepared?"

The Marine in question stood and saluted. "We are Lady."

"Excellent," She replied. "You have all been assembled for a rather particular mission. This mission will be imperative for the survival of our nation and may very well decide the fate of mainland China as well."

The marines looked to each other in surprise. Even after Blood Week very little had emerged from the interior of China, and the Communists had clamped down on any information that might leak.

"You are to go to infiltrate Hong Kong, find the Struan and Company building, and search the vaults." She held up a set of ancient coins on a string. "The talismans I have provided you shall allow you to see the truth of what you seek. You are looking for something similar to this, but the Coins will be gold and silver on cord of woven Jade and Silk. There will be others searching for these, and you must not let anyone else take them."



South China Sea

The ship was a rental, but the freelance news crew sunk as much of their capital into the ship as they could, including the simple satellite uplink which would allow them to broadcast from anywhere in the world. The trip from Australia was odd to say the least, passing through the 'friendly' Abyssal's territory was something to be seen, and they recorded every minute of it. It was strange to see some kid on a beach with one of those monsters, and a part of them wanted to see a bit of violence, calling back to the old adage, 'If it bleeds, it leads'. Nothing sells like raw footage from the Abyssal Front.

"Where are we heading now?"

"Ever been to Hong Kong?"

 

[darthcourt10]

WickedestCard

So...you all remember Solie? Cause I do and let's just say that life has been hard for her and that we get to see a bit of that right now. So without further ado!
-------------

THE DEEPEST ABYSS: Solie's Awakening.

June 18th, 2014
Yokosuka Naval Activities.


Heavy and stiff eyelids that for a few moments didn't quite want to cooperate with her will were the first thing that the submarine Abyssal felt as her consciousness stirred back in her body. Second was the sheer stiffness and lethargic feeling that was embedded into very being. Finally the feeling that her very flesh was raw and tender hit her as she finally managed to open her eyes. The Abyssal was greeted by a stark and sterile white room, a surprisingly comfortable bed, an older human male in uniform, a female doctor, two Abyssals and at least a half dozen shipgirls standing a few meters back.

"It seems you're awake. I'm sure you're still trying to shake the cobwebs fully but I am afraid I'll need to ask you some questions." The male human, an Admiral if Solie had to guess, asked her in an even voice.

"First we are not here to harm or kill you, it is just that the circumstances of your situation has come across as suspicious. What I am asking is for a temporary cease of hostilities between us as we ask you the questions. Is that acceptable?" Admiral Goto explained, a stern look on his face. He was more than aware of what other methods could be used in this situation but he gambling that he would be able to turn this all into a net positive.

The Abyssal sub nodded her head slowly as she took in what he said. Not that there was much she could in this instance after all. At that the female doctor approached and handed her a glass of water and started to check her over.

"Take a few minutes to collect yourself and once you feel capable of speaking please tell your name." The doctor stated as she continued her work. A quick nod and some small measured sips of water was her answer as the bedridden submarine did just that. A few quiet moments passed as the two parties gathered themselves. Finally, the submarine finished drinking and managed to clear her throat.

"My name is Solie, So-class Flagship and third in command of the submarine fleet led by...formerly led by Castaway Submarine Princess." Solie said with a heavy and strained voice. Even as her recovering body lay there she could tell the old connection she shared with her Princess was no longer there.

"I see. Flagship Solie, I'll say that we managed to recover some of your fleets ships with the help of the Destroyer Escorts that were towing you to safety. However they have not been able to clarify what happened to cause you to nearly die." Admiral Goto said as he interlocked his fingers and cast her a gaze. It wasn't one of malice or hate, more expectant than anything else.

"My Princess, my older sister and I were the front end of an expedition. See...we were diving down into the deepest part of the ocean we knew of in search of resources. My Princess was unique with how deep she could dive. While many Princess classes are able to stay submerged for long periods of time at the sea floor, Castaway Princess could dive to the rim of the Deep Abyss. I...cannot remember what you humans call it." The submarine said as she recalled what her sister told her.

"The Marianas Trench. A massive trench that runs along the edge of the Pacific correct?" Goto supplied, remembering some of the talks he had with the Admiral at Guam.

"Yes...that sounds right. The vast majority of Abyssals can't survive the pressure and stresses associated with the dive, but my Princess could." Solie stated with a proud and fond tone in her voice. "She developed a ritual to help with staying down there for longer periods of time."

At that the Admiral raised an eyebrow but filed the information away for the time being. It said something that even Abyssals feared and were threatened by the Marianas Trench. Goto gave the Abyssal a quick short nod as a sign to continue.

"Castaway's first true dive into the...Marianas was somewhat successful. See, she made it down to the rim and could stay down there for a few hours, a bit longer if we channeled some energy into her. But she is...was still just one Abyssal and she couldn't gather that many resources. After that Castaway did the same thing with my older sister...she became Deep Sea Demon. They did two dives together into the Trench and they were able to gather more resources."

Solie then stopped for a moment and took in a shaky breath. She closed her eyes and nodded, as if she was gathering herself.

"Then on my launch day my Princess and Deep Sea performed the ritual on me and I was promoted to Flagship. A few days later we went on one more expedition. This time it was more South, along the edge of Shipgirl patrols. On our way down though something happened. The three of us heard something. No...someone. It was faint at first…almost like a heartbeat. It was curious odd. Then we heard something resonate from within us...something enthralling and wonderful. We needed to find it, I don't know why but it was like my very being needed to dive deeper into the Abyss. In fact...it feels a bit similar to the Princess class standing next to you." At that there were a few raised eyebrows but with a look to each other, Hoppou and Goto nodded. Solie could see a tall Shipgirl in the back with long black hair also give a stern nod. Blinking away some moisture in her eyes, she once again calmed her breathing and continued.

"After that...my crew panicked and started an emergency surface. I...saw my Princess and my sister continue down, further and further into the black and then...nothing. I must have passed out or something for a while. For a while it was nothing and then...I was in a dream. I'm not too sure what it was though." Solie finished her story, her breathing now slow and constant, as if a weight on her chest had been lifted.

"I see. Thank you Solie-San and I am sorry that I am the one that needed to break this to you. A Shipgirl convoy spotted you undertow by some of your Destroyers and Destroyer Escorts. They surrendered to the convoy and in exchange for a truce and keeping you alive they led us to your outpost so they could be here when you woke up. Both the group towing you and the ones posted at the island were in bad shape but they all waited until you were out of the OR to be fixed up themselves." Goto gave her a small but warm smile.

"They had absolute faith you would pull through and they wish to speak to you. I would like for you and our fleet to consider joining the Allied Abyssals Treaty but that can wait for a later time. Hoppou-chan here can answer any questions you have about that and we'll see about getting you some appropriate food. But first...you have some people that want to see you." A undercurrent of sadness could be heard in the Admiral's voice as he stood up and along with the now named Hoppou, Norihara, the battleship Abyssal and the shipgirls walked out of the room. Solie could see the Admiral pull the small Abyssal aside before her eyes widened at who entered.

In walked the two Tsu-class twins, four destroyers and eight of the sea otter like Destroyer Escorts. At once the otters clambered around her bed until they cuddled around her, one whining as she patted her head, blinking.

"Flagship Solie...we...we held out as long as we could but...there were too many of them before the Shipgirl arrived. I'm sorry but...we..we got as many mementos of them as we could. We...we're all that's left Solie, we...failed." One of the Tsu-class said, Tsuki, her voice breaking.

"Don't say that...please. Y-you know how Big sis was like r-right. I'm sure that you gave it all you had. So...th-this is all that's left of our…" Solie tried asking but couldn't fight back the choking sob in her throat as it all hit her. Everyone came close and gave her as much of a hug as they could as they all let out the cries and sobs they had been holding back. Unnoticed by them, Hoppou had quietly closed the door to give them privacy.
-----------------------------------------

So, what do you all think of the latest snippet for our So-class submarine. A bit of exposition not included is that they ran from the Indian Ocean years ago and have been surviving on an outpost they built on one of the many islands of SE Asia and were at times threatened by feral Abyssals. A Princess class or even a Demon class is usually more than enough to keep them away but when Castaway had been gone for a while the ferals got brave and attacked.

Out of fleet about 50 strong only 14 ships remain from Solie's fleet.

 

[darthcourt10]

Yellowhammer

A Belgian Butterknife's Japanese Vacation (XVI)

14 July 2014

Sunrise Oceanview Lounge, Yokosuka, Japan

"Very good, Hoppou! Wasn't that fun?" Claire said gently to the Abyssal child in her lap as they sat at the piano.

"Yay! Hoppou knows how to play piano now! PO!" Hoppou responded with a smile and hug for Claire before hopping down to clear the piano's lap.

Seiko gave Claire a bit of a stare before climbing up. "I guess it's my turn next," she grumbled.
Spoiler: Seiko's First Piano Lesson

Claire waved her hand and several of the white keys on the piano turned different colors. "All you have to do is tap the key in the color I call, Seiko-chan." A warm, maternal smile filled Claire's face as she took Seiko's clawed hand and guided her to depress the keys. "Just like that."

"OK..." Seiko huffed.

"Orange, Green, Orange, Orange, Green, Yellow, Green, Blue, Blue, Orange, Green." Claire called out gently as Seiko followed the simple melody along with an adorably grumpy pout of concentration and twinkles in her eyes.

Needless to say, Harry, Kansha, Ehren, and Colombe were all filming the impromptu set of piano lessons. Nagato was as well, although the Pride of the Big Seven's face was flushed and she was emitting small puffs of steam from her ears at the antics of her family.

Finally the melody ended and the observers applauded. Seiko blushed rose pink, and Claire smiled happily. "Well done, Seiko! See how much fun it is to Piano?"

The young Abyssal suddenly squirmed in her lap. Seiko hugged Claire tight and whispered "Yes!". Then she hopped down and headed to the buffet line to join the other children waiting on a refill on desserts.

Claire smiled sweetly at Seiko and then turned back to the piano. After a thoughtful hum, she glanced over at the three Japanese shipgirls and got a small smile. She turned to Ehren and winked.

Ehren nodded back and then spoke as she pulled out her cell phone and walked to Claire's side. "I took the liberty of doing some research on a song to end our little meeting that I believe some of the ladies would enjoy Claire playing." Ehren spoke in a crisp voice that drew attention to her and Claire.

With that she nodded to her sister as she set the phone above the keyboard to display the sheet music that she had researched. Claire grinned at Ehren who snapped to attention. Claire began to play the Gunkan kōshinkyoku official naval march of the IJN and then the JMSDF and instantly all three shipgirls began to sing.
Spoiler: Claire's Last Song

"Defending and attacking are done very well
By Castles which float very reliable
These castles proudly sail under the rising sun
Protecting our nation, from all four directions
Ships of iron, under the sun, how great are they
They attack when in need, our enemies
Smoke of coal appears in the sky like an ocean God's
Mighty dragon who spews forth in a very wide stream
Cannons sound like the roar of mighty thunder
Their voices, reverberate, quite an awful lot
Thousands of miles, going over many big waves
The light of our country, may it always shine!"
---------------------

Colombe watched the group around Harry walk down the street from where she was parked to the crosswalk leading to the Yokosuka Naval Base main gate. She sighed minutely and then turned to the other three tsukumogami with her. "Well, that was quite a productive and pleasant meeting, To-chan, Claire, Ehren."

Claire smiled at her mother. "Oh yes it was. They all loved me playing piano and Miss Verniy said that she had some Shostokovitch sheet music on board her that was later suppressed by the authorities. She plans to scan and email me it!"

Ehren gave a cool nod. "Ja, indeed it was. Thank you for having me along, Mutti. I have much to think on after speaking to Catherine, Maruyu, Aunt Juuchi, and Uncle Kansha. I shall have to get copies of some of Kasuyu's cookbooks for my uncle, even if he looks like an unbearded boy. Aunt Juuchi explained when I asked about him that it is by preference and we can alter the apparent age of our avatars. She promised to send me some notes on how to change my avatar's age and apperance. And our cousin Kensho is a dear."

Toku nodded. "Indeed Kensho is adorable. Which is surprising since her mother had a very bad reputation among my family before the Pacific War." The Masamune miko sighed and absently adjusted the katana in the obi of her hakama. "Also Catherine-san is quite a wonderful person to talk to. I look forward to renewing our discussion on matters of when to draw steel honorably and when to keep our blades sheathed."

Colombe shook her head with a small smile. "I still cannot believe that the blade of the Maid of Orleans spoke to me. I had thought her lost for good when the French Potters were destroyed in the Revolution." She scowled and then laughed as Toku got in the passenger seat and the children sat behind her. "Irony of ironies, Gabriel Potter told me of her, but I thought that he was bragging about some of the artifacts his family collected. If matters had been slightly different, it would have been my great-granddaughter who Catherine saved from the madness of the Jacobins."

"Oh, Mutti?" Ehren asked curiously.

"Oui." Colombe responded as they got on the road. "Gabriel was in my class in Beauxbatons and we were sorted into the same House. He was from the French branch of the Potters, and we were good friends and eventually lovers. My first boy in fact." Colombe said with a smirk and small blush. "He wished to win my hand in marriage, and we eventually agreed upon a friendly duel one night. On broomsticks we had purloined from the storeroom. He could fly like a bird, he said that it ran in the family. So he brewed a Sleeping Draught and helped me slip it into that Bourbon hag's digestif nightcap before bed."

Colombe grinned smugly and nastily. "So we ran her up the flagpole in her nightgown as she snored away, then opened the gates to let the entertainers and tuns of wine that we had bought inside. After..." Colombe broke off, noticing Claire's enthralled look and decided to skip over the intimate details of the 'services rendered' by the veela courtesans that she had hired. "...the party got well underway," Colombe continued, "then Gabriel and I mounted up and began our duel. First one to yield, take a scoring hit in the torso with our magically blunted blades, or get knocked from her broom would lose. If I lost, I told him that I would marry him. If I won, well he would allow me to ride him whenever and however I pleased."

Toku's eyes got very round and her face flamed, "Co-chan! You didn't!"

"Well I did! Win that is!" Colombe responded with a broad smugly reminiscent grin on her face. "We locked our blades corps a corps as we circled la fontaine des nymphes in the Blue Hall, he cast a stunning spell on me and I parried it with the dagger Papa had gifted me for my fifteenth birthday -- it was enchanted to have that ability to negate spells the blade touched you see -- then punched him with the guard in the solar plexus. It knocked the wind out of him, he lost his balance, and splashed in the water. Unfortunately the commotion as we woke up the nymphs inside the fountain alerted the school and I was blamed for the mess that was made. They all thought that he was trying to stop me."

"Mutti," Ehren said curiously. "What happened to that dagger?"

Colombe sighed. "I lost it in 1745 off the coast of Greece. Some of the Moorish pirates that plagued the Mediterranean Sea at the time boarded a ship I was hired to guard and in the fight I had to leave it in a corpse because it was wedged in too tight. Then I got knocked over the rail. Pity, I still miss that misericordia parrying dagger. Only you, Ehren, have matched her balance, temper, and quality."

The dagger's blond avatar got a thoughtful look on her face as she leaned back and looked out the window. "I see...."
---------------------

Spoiler: A Vacation's End

Castle Moulbaix, Belgium

Kasuyu sighed slightly at the parcel of letters that the Post Owl had just brought to the address that the castle used for its mail deliveries. He began to sort through them as he walked through the Great Hall en-route to Mistress Colombe's study.

Advertising flyer, advertising flyer, bill, a vellum document sealed in red wax with the imprint of a crowned eagle, a second scroll also sealed in red wax with a star and crescent, another advertisement, bill, sealed letter marked for Ehren, bill...
Spoiler: The Seals

Kasuyu then blinked as he reached the bottom of the stack.

The address was immediately familiar, that of the Mistress' younger half-sister. The black sealing wax with the de Breuil coat of arms gave him pause, and he took a deep breath before breaking the seal.

In Japan or not the Mistress needed to know immediately.

His dark face paled and turned gray as he read the handwritten message.

One massive hand grabbed the telephone.

Next to the phone on the desk rested a scribbled note with the number of Colombe's current burner cell phone.
---------------------

Japan Route 311, Outskirts of Kamakura, Japan

Colombe's cell phone began to ring with the tune of Toto's "Africa" and a number from Belgium.

 

[darthcourt10]

lt_agn02

A/N: This is the final draft. I won't be making more revisions to this chapter after this because the more time I spend trying to appease everyone means there's less time getting to the actual meat of Aso's story.
_______________
Stretching her arms as she walked through an administrative building, Despatch turned to Alton. "Since our acclimation period is over, how about we hit up a rib joint off base? I heard from the locals that this place over in Pearl City is pretty popular."

Alton shook her head. "I believe I'll pass. I want to head back to the library to do some more research on modern times. There's a lot I missed."

"Aw, but come on! It's our first chance to experience Hawaii in the modern day!" Despatch shook her battle buddy with tears in her eyes. "You know we're not allowed off base without each other!"

The protected cruiser shrugged. "Again, I'll pass. The mess hall has some very good ribs too, so you can go there."

"Aww, but it's not the same!" She slumped her shoulders.

Alton cocked an eyebrow. "What do you mean? The ones at the mess hall are still the 'All-American' ribs you love."

Crossing her arms, Despatch made a conflicted face. "True...and sometimes the recipes outside the base get perverted to suit local tastes and all, but that's part of the enjoyment, right? I heard from one of the sailors that the joint I'm talking about has ribs so good, it makes you want to drive down to Dixie, find a rib master, and beat the devil out of them!"

Alton felt her mouth water. "That...that is tempting," she said, covering her mouth with her sleeve, "but-"

"Hey look. We've got a Jap here."

"Huh?"

"Japanese carrier, 12 o'clock." Despatch pointed toward a nervous Aso fumbling with the notepad and pencil in her hands just before entering the briefing room.

"It looks like we're in the same briefing," Alton noted.

"Wanna give her the ol' gunboat diplomacy for old times' sake?"

Narrowing her eyes, Alton groaned at her companion's suggestion. "Gunboat diplomacy? Seriously?"

"Well, it's either that or we corner her in the room and act Italian enough to get her to kiss our rings, but we don't have rings for her to kiss."

"That's still the same thing! And not all Italians are part of the Mafia."

"Yeah, but she doesn't know that!" With a smile, Despatch walked forward. "Besides, it's just a little waving the flag, showing how awesome we are, and getting her on our side. Bing, bang, boom. It never fails."

Alton put her hand to her face. "I have a very bad feeling about this…"

Inside the room, Aso slowly took a deep breath as she looked over the things she brought with her. By everyone's standards, a simple pencil and notebook was appropriate for a simple briefing. Especially if the most they are covering is basic procedures, the main topic was disaster relief and sustainable operations.

The faces of the youkai at the village flashed through her mind.

One step closer.

One step closer.

It may be a village lacking in modern conveniences, but it was still a home. Things like electricity was a must. While she did leave them with a small pair of power generators, there was no guarantee that they would last long. Most of them were geared for the farming life, after all.

She took a deep breath to center herself for the new times to come.

The slamming of the door jolted the Japanese girl out of her meditation and pulled her eyes toward the two new ship girls entering the room. One was walking with an immense amount of confidence, like she owned the place. The other was walking with her hand glued to her face like she didn't want to be seen.

"Greetings!" the confident one shouted. "I am the protected cruiser Despatch of the United States Navy!" The girl made a single finger gun with her right hand. "Tell us your name and where you are from!"

"I-I'm Aso of the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force, last ship of the Unryuu-class carriers," the carrier greeted as she shot to her feet with a bow. "I-It's a pleasure to meet you."

"I'm Alton, formerly USS Chicago," the other protected cruiser greeted as she leaned in to the carrier's ear, pulling Aso's attention away from Despath's raving about the greatness of the United States of America. "Sorry for my friend-slash-sister," she whispered. "She's having a...hard time."

Both Alton and Aso glanced at the haughtily-laughing protected cruiser.

"Y-Yeah…" Aso held her finger up. "You said sister?"

Alton nodded. "Despatch and I are part of the ABCD ships. The first steel ships of the United States Navy. She's the second ship, Boston. I used to be called Chicago. We were both renamed so the newer girls could take the Boston and Chicago names. We're going by the new names here for the sake of clarity."

The carrier's eyes widened considerably. "The...the first?! Like Izumi?!"

Again, the protected cruiser nodded." You mean Esmeralda, right? Yeah, just like her."

The carrier glanced to the still-ranting and raving Despatch and back to the more calm and collected Alton. "...Um...how strong are you two?" the carrier asked. "I heard rumors that shipgirls from earlier times have more spiritual power based on their fame."

Shrugging, Alton pulled up a chair next to the carrier. "No clue. If that's the case, then Despatch is definitely stronger than I am. She was launched in 1884, but kept serving on and off until after the Second World War." The cruiser crossed her arms. "Barring that, she had a pretty colorful service. Before she even served in the Spanish-American War, she was here in Hawaii."

"EXACTLY!"

Aso jumped in her seat, looking toward the older cruiser.

With a confident smile on her face, Despatch slammed a sheet of paper on the table. "Look at this map, Aso."

The carrier nervously looked down at the map in front of her, which depicted the Hawaiian islands. With one island with an "X" drawn on it. "Hm? What about it?"

"Everything the light touches belongs to the United States of America," the protected cruiser bragged. "And I am the one who raised the American flag over it."

The carrier had no choice but to awe at that. The cruiser in front of her had served her country well, something she was not able to do in her time. It stung her heart a bit, knowing that she wasn't able to raise her nation's flag and actually fight for them.

Though she tried to push the thoughts from her mind, the thought of her raising the Japanese flag over Korea like Hideyoshi tried to do amused her somewhat.

Curiously, Aso pointed toward one of the places crossed out with permanent marker. "What about this place you crossed out?"

"That is Ni'ihau," Despatch answered. "You must never go there. The Robinsons own that place and they don't take kindly to strangers."

"...The who?"

"Meh, a bunch of nobodies that bought out the entire island. I've been hoping for the local government to give me the order to give them the boot. They may be American, but we need more land for food crops and they won't let me bulldoze the forests. Call it Eminent Domain."

Putting her hand to her chin, the carrier nodded. Buying an island, a populated one no less, and kicking everyone else out is pretty rude and inconsiderate, especially by the standards she knew. The way Despatch put it, it seemed reasonable enough to reclaim it for more food, especially if food is a higher priority.

"If it comes to that," Aso noted, "I would be happy to assist you."

Despatch smirked. Hook, line, and sinker.

"In that case, come and join the United States Navy!" The protected cruiser exclaimed. "It's why you're here, isn't it?"

The carrier paused. Join the U.S. Navy? That was out of nowhere.

"I'm sorry," Aso said, bowing her head a little. "At the moment, I'm not interested in such things."

Despatch twitched a little. "What? No, surely you would have thought about it a little, right?"

The carrier shook her head. "Not really, no." The girl looked down at her notebook. "Even though I was used as a target ship in the end, Japan is still my home," she said. "I could never abandon it, or my friends and family over there."

"W-Well, then you don't need to trouble yourself," the protected cruiser said as she snatched the map back. "An operation like that is only suited for Americans, not the Japanese."

The carrier narrowed her eyes a bit. "But...you just accepted my help a moment ago."

"That was before you said you didn't want to join the U.S. Navy," Despatch answered. "We don't need to bring foreign ships on a mission that we can handle by ourselves. Besides, if you're not here to join us or on port call, why are you even here?"

Crossing her arms, Aso looked at the protected cruiser. "I was reassigned here to check out stuff like the food situation. What about you? You seem a little too outdated to be fighting World War Two-grade Abyssals."

Despatch had to growl at that. "Why? Because I fucking conquered Hawaii, that's why."

Try as she might, Aso couldn't suppress the pang of jealousy that welled up in her heart. But now wasn't the time to acknowledge that.

"Whether you conquered this place or not isn't relevant," the carrier retorted. "And you don't have to act so damn smug about it…"

Despatch leaned on the table. "You know, I don't recall asking your opinion. If you're not going to play ball, you might as well go home. If Japan became a state, I wouldn't mind. But since you lot are too brain-dead to consider it, you have no place at Pearl. We don't need fucking Japs here."

The carrier felt her eye twitch a little. "...Then what about Sergeant Kaneshiro over there?" She asked, pointing to the Japanese-American soldier she met mere minutes ago and was heading out of the room to grab a coffee. And a superior officer. And some MPs.

After seeing the fire started to ignite, he quickened his pace to grab Missouri and fast. If he didn't, there wouldn't be a briefing room left.

"He's different. He actually has American citizenship," the protected cruiser retorted as the man ran for his life. "As long as you're an American, race doesn't matter."

"Then how come you're talking down to me?"

Despatch crossed her arms. "Like I said, race doesn't matter. Citizenship does. If you are an American citizen, I don't care if your mother is a Martian tugboat, you are still a fucking American. All fucking Americans are equal under Old Glory and deserve to be treated as such. I admit, what we did to our own people back in the war was fucked up, but if you look like the enemy, you're still getting put under the microscope whether the government approves or not."

This time, it was Aso who narrowed her eyes. "What about religion? Somebody took offense to me asking where the nearest Buddhist temple is and wouldn't give me an answer."

Despatch gritted her teeth. "Then give me their name and rank!" She shouted. "The 1st Amendment says everyone here has freedom of religion and freedom from religion. The Founding Fathers did not fucking stutter. Anyone who says otherwise is a fucking traitor! I don't give two shits about you, but if they mouth off that un-American shit, I am gonna shove my boot so far up their ass that they're gonna eat leather for a month!" The cruiser then aggressively pointed at the carrier. "But that's beside the point! You don't have American citizenship, so therefore, you have no business even being here!"

Angrily, Alton shoved her compatriot. "Despatch! We're at war! We can't be picky with our allies!"

The other protected cruiser angrily brushed her sister off. "What? You know it's true. If they do not want Statehood, they're pretty much idiots. MacArthur was an idiot and should have made Japan a territory when he had the chance. Maybe then the Japs would have some goddamn sense knocked into their empty heads."

"...Shut up."

Despatch turned around to face Aso, who was sitting at the table with her fists clenched. "Hm? What was that?"

Aso slammed her fist into the table, splintering it in half. "I SAID TO SHUT UP, YOU DAMN FLOATING SCRAP PILE!"

The two protected cruisers jumped back a bit as the aircraft carrier rose to her full height, almost a head taller than Despatch herself. Despite this, Despatch still walked forward, ignoring Alton's attempts to physically drag her out of the room.

"What? You've got something to say to me?"

"You can insult me all you want...call me names, throw things at me, whatever," Aso said through gritted teeth. "But don't you dare...DON'T YOU DARE INSULT MY HOME LIKE THAT!"

Despatch sent a glare upward. "Insult? I was just telling the truth. If you all would just lay back and become a state, you'd all be better off."

"The truth?! You are so twisted!" Aso shouted. "The Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere is a better alternative than getting annexed!"

"Better? Don't make me laugh!" the protected cruiser retorted. "You Orientals can't manage your way out of a paper sack. You guys tried copying us when we tried bringing Manifest Destiny to the Orient just like I did to this backwater rock and all you couldn't even get that right. Instead of being a nation that could stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the West, you tried stacking shit six feet high and called that mess an 'empire'. All you ended up being was some cheap second-rate knockoff with 'made in Japan' stuck all over it. Even if you Asiatics did manage to pull it off, it would still be an inferior copy. And an inferior copy cannot hope to match the original."

"Big talk, huh? From a trillion-koku nation that lost a war to a bunch of rice farmers." The carrier clenched her fists even tighter. "Just because you're correct, it doesn't mean you're right!"

As the argument wore on, Alton grabbed Despatch's right arm and pulled desperately to save the girl from herself. Failing that, she tried pushing herself between the carrier and the protected cruiser, only to be pushed away by both parties trying to get in each other's faces. As the protected cruiser began to feel the tension between the two rise higher and higher, she grabbed a towing cable from her hold and lashed it around Despatch's right wrist.

Anything to keep her restrained enough to get her to the corner of the room to calm down. No matter what, she had to separate the two before things got out of hand.

"Then maybe we should have dethroned Hirohito while we were at it!" Despatch seethingly noted. "Maybe then we could have annexed you properly!"

Alton felt her heart sink the moment the words left Despatch's mouth. Glancing at Aso, she could see the carrier's face was turning redder by the second. So was Despatch's own expression.

Too late.

Aso gritted her teeth at the suggestion. Dethrone the Emperor?! Ridiculous! Her mouth filled with a seething rage that could have burned her tongue off. Step by step, the carrier slowly walked toward the protected cruiser.

"...Wash your neck," she stated coldly.

Despatch cocked her eyebrow. "What my what?"

"Wash your neck!" Aso shouted, flicking her left thumb. In a flash, the sword at her side was in her right hand and pointed straight at the target in front of her. "For saying such things...I will never forgive you!"

At least, that was what she wanted to do if she had her sword with her. However, at Bowfin's insistance, she left it back at the dorm so there wouldn't be any trouble.

Here, in the briefing room, she was unarmed.

But that didn't matter.

A clenched fist swung outward, striking the protected cruiser square in the mouth. Despatch staggered a bit, looking up at her attacker who was shaking with rage.

"That was so stupid I lost brain cells!" Aso shouted. "Dethroning the emperor?! Annexation?! If the emperor leaves without a successor, there would be chaos! You're just asking for another Sengoku Jidai! But with guns and tanks!"

"That's why we install someone sympathetic to both nations to take the helm while we annex the place." Despatch wiped a small amount of blood from her nose. "Look, I don't like it when American lives are at risk, but bitch, you are making Operation Downfall sound very appealing right now."

Aso clenched her teeth. "Behind every blade of grass, there is one of us ready to fight! For each one of us you kill, we would have dragged a hundred Americans to hell with us! And if you pulled off Downfall, you would be no better than Hitler! Worse than him, in fact!"

The protected cruiser reared up to retaliate, yet she found her right hand hindered.

"Let me go, Alton!" She yelled as she finally started to struggle in Alton's grip. "I don't care if she's a person or an animal! Any bitch who refuses to listen to reason deserves to get smacked! Nobody compares me to that goose-stepping, broom-lipped, lederhosen-wearing lunatic clown and gets away with it!"

"Quit offending everyone in the room!" Alton protested.

"I am a herald of the United States of America!" Despatch shouted. "And I say that Japan will become the 51st state even if I have to overthrow the place by myself!"

"You need the approval of Congress to do that!"

"Approval? I don't need approval!" Despatch bragged. "I could raise the American flag over the Diet building right now and Congress would applaud!"

Aso's eyebrow twitched again as she readied another punch. "You...fucking gaijin!"

The carrier threw her punch straight for Despatch's face. The protected cruiser tipped her head to the side, narrowly dodging the hit.

Alton, however, was not so lucky.

The moment Despatch dodged the hit, Aso's punch connected with the other protected cruiser, causing her to release Despatch from the grip she had on both her hand and the towing cable.

The carrier glanced at the girl she punched. A small pang of guilt rose up, but she quashed it just as quickly.

She didn't miss. She just hit another filthy gaijin. Not the target she was aiming for, but that didn't matter. The only ones in the room were her and two filthy gaijins. So what if she hit one or the other.

Finally freed from her compatriot, Despatch threw a punch of her own, slamming her fist into Aso's left cheek. The carrier grimaced and let out a low growl before throwing another.

This time, Despatch was ready. She fell into a crouch, letting the carrier's punch whoosh past her head. The protected cruiser roared as she pierced the sky with her right fist, slamming it right into the carrier's jaw and forcing the taller girl to fall backward onto the table behind her and breaking it.

"How about that, huh?!" Despatch taunted. "That's an all-American uppercut right there!"

The carrier wiped a small bit of blood off her lip. "...I've had worse."

Despatch narrowed her eyes. "You're still not giving up, you stupid Jap?" The protected cruiser grabbed one of the nearby folding chairs and brandished it like a baseball bat.

"I will never fall. You weak-willed Americans are too soft! You have no honor!" Aso declared, rising to her feet and readying her fists. "Japan will not become like the Sick Man of Asia! We refuse to be the plaything of Western colonialism!"

Meanwhile, Alton rubbed her cheek and growled. "Damn these two…" she stomped over between the two and held her arms out to keep them apart. "Quit it! For fuck's sake, we already destroyed two tables here! If the admiral finds out about this, we're gonna be in huge trouble!"

"That was all her fault, Alton!" Despatch yelled. "She was the one who busted the first one and totaled the second one!"

"You were the one who provoked her!" Alton retorted. "And you, Miss Aso! You're supposed to have a battle buddy with you! Where is she?!"

"Bowfin-san had to go on patrol," Aso said. "And I was told by the admiral that due to the nature of submarine operations, I am still allowed to use base facilities while she's gone."

"What the hell is up with that kind of system?!" the neutrality-seeking cruiser retorted. "Anyway, you need to cut it out too! We're already in enough trouble!"

"If you do not want to get involved, then step aside," Aso warned, her words burning with cold fury. "That gaijin went so far as to insult my country and my people! I will not stand by and let that go unpunished!"

"Bring it on!" Despatch taunted. "You're just a bargain bin bird farm that carries every bird but tits!"

"LEAVE MY CHEST OUT OF THIS!" a red-faced Aso shouted as she covered her chest.

"What the hell is going on here?" A sudden voice interjected.

All eyes turned to the entrance of the room, where Missouri stood holding a clipboard. A clipboard that was straining in her grip.

Both Despatch and Aso pointed at each other.

"She started it," they said together.

"I don't care who started it," Missouri countered. "I'm going to finish it."

 

[darthcourt10]

Yellowhammer

De Profundis: The Exploration And Research Logs of USS Trieste (DSV-0)

Entry #4

1108, 1 July 2014

North Atlantic, Norfolk Canyon, 70 Miles Offshore Of The Virginia Capes
Spoiler: A Test Dive

Trieste finished the check of her rigging, appearing as a modified deep-sea diving suit and gave the OK sign to her destroyer and submarine escort shipgirls as she stood on the ocean's surface preparing for her test dive.

According to the charts, she was 1600 meters above the estimated bottom in a massive underwater valley dwarfing the Grand Canyon carved through the cliff face where the relatively shallow waters of the North American Continental Shelf fell to the unexplored depths of the abyssal plain of the deep oceans of the Atlantic.

Automatically she converted the measurement of her planned dive to 5,250 feet in the units that she was more familiar with.

Over 2600 fathoms deep.

Almost a mile.

Her ear-to-ear happy grin split her face inside her diving helmet as she flooded her tanks and began to descend.

She couldn't wait.

Yes, today was to measure how well she handled her design role and to measure if the 'Siren Signal' that she was picking up was clearer in the deep water where sonar waves were the only form of communication and sight. But it was yet another step into the unknown to seek for nuggets of knowledge to be brought back to humanity.
------------------------

A flash of silver in the darkening water caught her attention and she logged observations of a school of Scomber scombrus common mackerel at 350 feet.

Then her eyes widened in delight and joy as she gasped in awe.
Spoiler: A Close Encounter

Moving like the apex predator that it was, a seven-foot long adult Thunnus thynnus, the Atlantic Bluefin Tuna, slashed through the mackerel school, gulping several of the smaller fish whole as it fed.

Automatically her brain rattled off the scientific designation, the known details of the species (speeds of 40mph recorded, dives of 1000 feet recorded, largest specimen caught weighed 1497 pounds when she was hooked off Nova Scotia, superior thermoregulation allowed the bluefins to not just hunt the warm tropical waters of other tunas but equally the rich but cold waters of the North Atlantic) and made notes both on paper in her observation cupola and with the cameras that she had been fitted for. Every scrap of data was valuable, after all.

The rest of her mind was enthralled with the drama playing out in the living sea as the surviving mackerel in the school scattered and fled like droplets of mercury from the hungry monster in their midst.

One minute thirty-eight seconds later, the tuna swam out of sight into the azure depths, leaving an overjoyed shipgirl behind.
------------------------

1137, 1 July 2014

The Norfolk Canyon
Spoiler: The Deeps Of The Sea

Trieste gazed with awe around the floodlit bubble of light and understanding that she had brought into the endless unexplored night of the deep ocean as she swam along one of the canyon walls. She could see the marks of erosion caused by the flow of the rivers of America. Sediment flowed past her in a ghostly stream of brown and white particles carried by the current of the sea that had carved this marvel.

She stopped her movement, hovering in the void of the deep ocean.

Slowly Trieste closed her eyes, listening to the Siren Song resonate around her, through her, within her as it called and spoke to her. She then spoke in a clipped tone. "Sound quality and clarity of Unknown Noise Source #1 is up 11.3% at 5200 feet. Hypothesis is that I am picking it up more strongly thanks to the thermocline above me muffling surface noise and channeling it."

Her eyes opened and she resumed the exploration, humming happily in counterpoint to the Siren Song. Her eyes then widened at a reef of deep-sea coral that was living and thriving down here in the eternal blackness. Filament feeding fronds waved through the sediment current, picking out nutrient rich particles to be devoured by the polyps who had been building these reefs for thousands of years in the light-less dark.

"Potentially unknown coral species observed at 5215 feet, living along the wall. Will attempt to take samples for Woods Hole to study." She reached into herself and pulled out a sample jar half the size of her helmet. Carefully working a small piece of coral the size of her hand free, she placed it into the jar and sealed it.

"Sample recovered." She stowed the sample and then grinned.

The marine biologists at Woods Hole would love this.

Yet another step into the unknown with her light of understanding.

Then her eye was caught by a roughly circular mat of bacteria surrounded by a fringe of seep mussels in a depression in the ocean bottom.

"Brine pool located. Apparent release of nutrient-rich saline water with chemosynthesis by bacteria and symbiosis by Bathymodiolus childressi deep sea shellfish. Examining." She whispered as she pulled out a probe and lowered it into the salt-rich water. "73 parts per thousand of dissolved sodium chloride, with dissolved traces of sulfur dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, methane, ethane..."

Another sample jar was produced and filled with the bacteria-rich brine.

Trieste smiled happily as she sealed, labeled, and stowed the sample. Truly life was amazing. Even here, in waters with crushing pressure, little food, and foreign to the very idea of sunlight, life had found a way to thrive and grow and exist with no less determination and tenacity than in the rich and fertile sun-kissed waters a mile above her.
------------------------

She sighed as her alarm went off inside her observation cupola. "Allowed timeframe for dive reached. No equipment deficiencies recorded. All systems green."

She paused after speaking for the official record of her report's observations.

Slowly she looked around this wonderful, mysterious, deadly, fascinating midnight world that she had been built to explore.

Around her and inside her, the Siren Song grew and swelled into a mighty crescendo.

Her heart filled with a desperate longing to know that warred with her duty and understanding that this was a place that could and would kill the unwary if she overstayed her welcome.

Inside her helmet, a tear fell from her eye as she waved farewell to this wonderland.

For now.

Until next time.

"Releasing ballast, beginning ascent to the surface."

 

[darthcourt10]

Harry Leferts

Attempting to block, Harry winced as the Bokken smacked him on the head, able to be felt even through the men, or helmet, he wore. A fellow-up strike hit him on the side, making him grunt before a third knocked his legs out from under him. Hitting the ground, he felt the air driven from his lungs before a foot wearing a geta was placed in his chest and the tip of a Bokken filled his vision. Moments later, he looked up to the facemask of his opponent before she giggled, "You lasted a little bit longer that time, Harry-Kun."

Just breathing hard, Harry cocked an eyebrow as he waited for the next blow, verbal this time, to land, "Really?"

Despite the mask she wore, Harry could make out the smirk on Okita's face as she nodded, laughter in her voice, "Oh yes! You lasted five more seconds against me than usual. So I would say that you're improving." Stepping off him, she bowed, "Still, a good match."

With a small grunt, Harry got to his feet and bowed back, "Thank you, Sensei."

Taking off her helmet and tenugui, the pale haired girl smiled at him, "You are very welcome, Harry-Kun." She bowed again to him, "It is nice to be teaching once more."

In reply, Harry took off his own helmet with his tenugui and hair damp with sweat before chuckling and wincing, "I can imagine." Rubbing his side after removing his tenugui, he cocked his head to the side as he remembered something that he had read, "You were one of the Kenjutsu instructors for the Shinsengumi, right?"

Lips twitching a little into a smile of fond remembrance, Okita sighed some, "Hai, I was as a matter of fact. Not just because I was good-"

From where she sat sipping some tea, Nobu spoke up, "You mean the best, don't you, Okita-Chan?"

A small smirk on her own face, Uesugi nodded, "Indeed, the best in the Shinsengumi I believe. Or that was what we were told."

Raising an eyebrow, Harry looked at Okita who had a light blush on her cheeks, "Hmm..."

Just coughing, Okita looked away, "As I was saying, as I was one of the better ones in the Shinsengumi, I was asked to teach those that needed it in the art of Kenjutsu." Bokken propped against one shoulder, she was all smiles once more, though there was a darker tinge to it, "Which I enjoyed quite a bit as a matter of fact."

Head cocked to the side, the teenage wizard blinked, "I see..." Internally, he shuddered a bit, 'I almost pity them...'

Moments later, Okita darkly chuckled as her smile became a vicious grin and when she spoke, it was nearly in a purr, "Oh yes, I enjoyed it a lot~"

Nobu calmly sipped her tea for a few moments before pulling it away from her mouth. Slowly blinking, she looked up at the sky in thought before turning towards Uesugi, "Is it bad that I am kind of turned on right now and find that hot?"

Eyes closed as she sipped her tea, Uesugi hummed before looking at her, "Would you be you if you were not?"

Rubbing her chin, the reincarnated Unifier of Japan considered that before nodding, "Good point!"

Eyebrow raised, Harry looked at Okita. Said former Shinsengumi's eyebrow twitched before she reached down, grasped a stone, and then threw it as hard as she could at the two other girls. However, both girls simply leaned to the side and thus the stone missed them both as they continued to calmly drink tea. Her eyebrow still twitching, Okita ground her teeth, "I would rather no more comments from the peanut gallery, thank you."

More than a little amused at the antics, the thirteen year old wizard rolled his shoulders a little, "So you enjoyed it?"

Turning back to him, Okita was once more all smiles before nodding, "I did, actually." She tapped him on the arm and he went into a stance, "Give me... fifty downward strikes to begin with." While he internally grimaced, Harry did as he was told and began his exercises as Okita continued, "I did have a lot of work to do though with quite a number."

Harry tilted his head to the side at that, "Really?"

Shinai hitting him in the leg to adjust the stance, the former member of the Shinsengumi gave a nod, "Hai." With a small shake of her head, Okita walked around him to observe him and correct his stance and strikes, "Do not mistake me, they did know how to handle a sword or else we would not have accepted them even that far into our ranks. But, most of them only knew the basics or were ones who practiced only rarely and thus their technique was rough to say the least. Thus, it was up to me and other instructors to polish them as well as make them good swordsmen. Often, we would need to remove bad habits that they might have picked up." Moments later, her Bokken whipped out and struck Harry on the wrist, nearly making him drop his own Bokken, "Your wrist is too stiff, you need to be able to absorb a blow."

Grimacing despite the ache on his wrist, Harry did as she told him and loosened his wrists, "Hai, thank you, Sensei."

Only nodding, Okita rested the Bokken she held against her shoulder as she looked over his strikes with a practiced eye. Reaching out, she tapped him on the head with said Bokken, "Now, fifty strikes to the left diagonally, begin."

Even though his arms ached, both from the practice spar and the previous strikes, the teenage wizard nodded, "Hai, Sensei!"

Lips curling a bit, Okita internally chuckled as he continued his practice, "Very good, you do not need to be taught that." At his questioning look, she gave a shrug, "A member of one of the more powerful Samurai clans who was his father's heir when I was an instructor. He felt insulted that I was to teach him, among others, because he knew his family's style and I was ten years his junior. I allowed him to, what is the English idiom?" The teenage girl snapped her fingers, "Ah, yes, give himself enough rope to hang himself with."

Rapidly blinking, Harry gave her a look, "Oh boy... what did he do?"

The smile on Okita's face was not kind at all, though he was thankful that it was not directed at him, "As a matter of fact? He would often mutter under his breath and run his mouth in regards to my skills and abilities when my back was turned and he thought that I could not hear. I allowed this... for a time. Until, that was, he built enough of a reputation among his fellow students with a number from other prominent clans. Then, I struck and asked him why he felt that he could disrespect me so and had done so for some time. Apparently, that, along with the criticism of his capabilities of a swordsman and what that could say about certain other aspects of his life, seemed to insult him enough that he felt the need to challenge me. I even allowed him to use his steel blade while I used the Shinai."

Despite himself, Harry winced, "Ah... that did not turn out well."

A dark chuckle escaped from the pale haired swordswoman and she gave him a bloodthirsty smirk, "Oh, you could say that. The magical healer we had needed to take two weeks to heal him up as he had a number of broken bones, dislocations, and the skin both being broken and heavily bruised." With a innocent sounding hum, Okita shrugged, "After that, for some reason, I never had an issue with my teaching again."

Softly snorting, Harry shook his head, "I wonder why."

However, moments later, Nobu spoke up, "Okay, I'm sorry, but that is really damn hot."

Yet again, she dodged a thrown rock with a grin... before said rock ricocheted from a tree behind her and hit her in the ass, causing the former warlord to yelp and leap from the rock she sat on. Looking at her friend, and former rival warlord, Uesugi turned to Okita and raised her tea in salute before going back to enjoying it with a smirk on her face. It took Harry everything not to laugh at the antics between the three before he continued his exercises.

Upon hearing a throat being cleared, he glanced towards Uesugi, "Hai, Uesugi-Chan?"

Uesugi leaned forward a little, "I must admit that I am curious, Harry-Kun. From what you have stated, besides to bring honour to your family by knowing how to use your family blades, you are looking to be able to fight with them against this Voldemort. Is it out of revenge as he killed your parents?"

With a glance towards her as he continued his exercises, Harry considered his response, "I won't deny that there is a small part of me that wants to kill him for that reason. Because of him, I lost my birth parents and lived for a time with my... relatives, and..." Shaking his head, he didn't say anything else about that but allowed his anger and other negative emotions to flow into his Bokken as he performed his strikes, "But that's just one small part of it. The rest is because I know that he will be coming after me regardless of that."

Tea also placed aside, Nobu rolled everything that she knew about it around in her head before nodding, "Because he will be obsessed with you as the 'One that got away'. Someone who challenged him and survived in such a way that it created a chink in his armour. A symbol against him, and all that is something that his pride cannot allow."

Slowly, the teenage boy nodded, "Hai." Grimacing, Harry shook his head, "This is someone that killed a fellow student, murdered her in cold blood, simply because she felt that a non-magical boy was better than him in looks and personality with that stinging his pride."

Just snorting, Nobu thought back to the Warring States Era, "You are right that he is going to seek you out. You hurt his pride in a way that could be soothed in no other way but that. Made him seem weak to his followers. For that alone, making him seem less powerful, he would target you." With a shrug, she scratched her chin, "I knew of warlords like that, who would kill a peasant simply for belief that they might have insulted them, even children."

A grimace on her face, Uesugi nodded in agreement, "Hai, so have I as a matter of fact. Such people are more common than one would think, unfortunately. And they always seek power for that reason, though thankfully it is less of an issue in modern Japan, for example."

Eyebrow raised, Harry gave her a look, "Less of a problem?"

The former head of the Uesugi Clan gave him a look, "Less of an issue, because they do still exist in this world and always will. Some will go into politics, and use methods to ruin those who they feel have wronged them, same with those that go into business. You also have the Yakuza and how some of those are much the same way, except they will use violence to settle matters."

Okita raised one of her eyebrows as she corrected his stance with another whack to the leg, "Shift your weight slightly to the right." As he did so, she frowned in thought, "Thus, you wish to learn how to use a sword for that reason? Because you feel that he will attack you anyways?" When Harry nodded, the former Shinsengumi frowned still further, "Would not learning magic help more? Being as you are both wizards? It is how it works normally in my experience."

Considering that for a few moments, Harry was quiet. It was not until he started on the next set of exercises, his arms burning, that he spoke, "You're right, perhaps it would be normal to use magic. But..." With a sigh, the teenager shook his head, "Unfortunately, Voldemort has at least seventy five years of experience in regards to magic, and I have only had, at best, five or six. Even if I trained from now until the end of school, that would only make it where I had a decade's experience at best. One seventh of what Voldemort has." Expression darkening, Harry took a deep breath, "The only advantage that I have in magic is that I know Onmyoudo, which he does not. And that is only a thin advantage at best as I would even then still be a novice."

From where she sat, Nobu scratched her chin, "Hmm... I see, that is most troublesome."

With a slight nod towards her, the black haired wizard grimaced, "Hai, it is. Unless I gained some sort of magical super powers, in regards to magic I would be outclassed no matter what."

Moments later, Nobu shrugged, "Can't be helped, I suppose. This isn't that type of thing."

Despite the looks, she just pulled out some pocky and began to munch on it. Shaking his head at that, Harry took a deep breath, "My best bet, however, is to expand to things that he would not know. So that maybe I could surprise him, somehow. Aikido, knife fighting, Kenjutsu, and Onmyoudo. I don't expect to master them and I wouldn't be able to-"

Raising a finger, Okita nodded, "Because this is not that sort of thing as that sounds like normal fanfiction in that you master them within mere months."

Just blinking at that, Harry gave a nod, "Um, right." Giving her an odd look, he internally shrugged after a few seconds, "Anyways... I'm hoping that in a fight, I have just enough of an advantage in surprise and such that I can get away. If I get the chance to end him? I will, but I'll be aiming more to be able to come home."

To his surprise, Uesugi as well as Nobu and Okita gave him nods and looks of respect. At seeing his expression, the former warlord and leader of the Uesugi Clan chuckled a little, "I can understand why you are surprised, Harry-Kun. But the fact is that you recognize your limits and, while you want to surpass them, you also understand where they are." Rubbing her chin, she continued, "You understand that you cannot be a Master of one thing, but are willing to be pragmatic about it and reach for, and grasp, every advantage that you can get for a fight."

Crossing her arms, Okita snorted before she sneered a little, "Despite what those Wannabe-Samurai believe, and I include the Japanese military in the Second World War despite how they were hypocrites themselves, there is no honour on the battlefield. It is a dirty, messy affair. Your job is to kill the other and come home at the end of the day no matter what. And for that, you take whatever advantage that you can get, no matter how 'dishonourable' it may be to some."

A light chuckle came from Nobu as she crossed her arms, "Indeed! Fighting according to strict honour in any place outside an tournament is for fools." She jerked her thumb towards herself, "When I fought against Yoshimoto, he had twenty five thousand men to my three thousand or so. A battle that was against all odds as such things were in that day and age. My advisors told me that I should stand a siege, but I said otherwise. Instead, I used every advantage that I could. I used scouts to keep track of him and, when he stopped in a gorge that would advantage an surprise attack, I seized upon it! Using trickery, I made him think that I was elsewhere, and when a thunderstorm broke, I used the rain as cover to position my army before striking! All dishonourable tactics to be sure, but ones I used and won!" Leaning forward, there was a fire in her eyes, "The only time that one can be truly dishonourable in a life or death fight is when they lose because they were fools and did not use any advantages that they could!"

Slightly smiling, Harry gave them all a nod which they returned before he gave a small shrug, "Though I do wonder a bit." At their looks, he continued, "From what I learned from Aunt Myrtle? While she was in school, Armando Dippet had fencing taught as a class as he believed that it was only proper for young men. Tom, as Voldemort was known then, was a member of the class."

For a few moments, the three reincarnated people considered that before they looked at each other and had amused expressions on their faces. Clearing her throat, Okita gave him a smirk, "So, he took a class in school, likely only for a few years at best, and never used it?" At Harry's nod, her smirk grew a bit, "In other words, it would be like fighting a fifty year old man who last really held a sword in a high school Kendo class, at best."

Opening his mouth, Harry paused before giving a sheepish shrug, "I suppose?"

To his amusement, all three reincarnated warriors grinned at that and chuckled darkly. Tapping his waist with her Bokken, Okita grinned, "Then we'll make sure that if he is overconfident and arrogant enough, which from the sounds of it seems like him, than you will be able to end him when he tries to match you blade for blade. Now, shift your centre of gravity over a little, yes, like that..."

 

[darthcourt10]

SkyeFire

Yellowhammer said:This. this must happen for Colombe and 'Lady Harmony'.

You just had to push the "Evil Idea" button in my brain, didn't you?
*-*-*

Smugging gleefully, Colombe cuddled up to To-chan and opened her latest novel acquisition to the bookmarked page. Given the effect of reading the "Lady Chastity" series together in bed together on her lover, she was looking forward to trying out this "Harper Chamberlain", whose style was so similar to Lyra's, but with a focus on a happily (very happily) committed monogamous couple who made up for variety with intensity

But as she progressed through the opening pages of a scene which made her positively tingle with anticipation, she noticed a small frown on To-chan's face. A frown which slowly grew deeper, even as Colombe tried to salvage the situation by doubling down on her reading, amping up her most sultry voix de chambre. Finally, the mismatch between her own level of... "excitement," and To-chan's lack thereof, became too much, and Colombe closed the book on her finger to face her lover squarely.

"To-chan? What is amiss, mon amour?"

The katana spirit bit her lip, obviously searching for the right words. "Co-chan... don't you find it a bit... odd? Or, oddly familiar?"

"...well, the writing style is very similar to Lyra's, but I don't think that's what troubles you."

"No, not that. It's the characters. Two musicians, shy and reserved to the outside world, but so, ah, torridly in love in private. And the way that, for them, the difference between music and sex seems almost nonexistent, especially with all the erotic overtones whenever they play each other's chosen instrument. And how the line between themselves and their instruments seems to blur...."

Tokunotakai sat up, and met her lover's eyes squarely. "Co-chan... I would almost swear this book is written about Tony and Claire, much the way that 'Lady Chastity' was 'you'."

The world froze solid. The air in her lungs turned to ice. There was an thunderous SNAP inside her head, as if a thousand scattered puzzle pieces suddenly assembled themselves into one horrible, cohesive whole.

Harper Chamberlain.

Harp. Lyre.

Chamber... pot? Potter.

She knew that skewed sense of humor, as intimately as she knew the couple who rejoiced in it.

"LLLLLLLLYYYYYYYYRRRRRRRRRAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
Yellowhammer said:Newsflash. Mighty Mo's here and Mo isn't happy. And everyone is well within her range. Stand down or get stood down.

If Mo ain't happy, ain't nobody in range happy.

 

[darthcourt10]

Yellowhammer

The Family That Slays Together.... (I)

15 July 2014

De Breuil Estate, Upstate New York

A carved American Chestnut wardrobe opened and Colombe du Chasteler hopped out into an octagonal basement room. The rapier's spirit looked around the room with a scowl on her face. She then gestured angrily at the pile of luggage in her Vanishing Cabinet and floated it across to the other Vanishing Cabinet to lie against the wall beside it in a stack.

Behind her the door of the Cabinet closed, then opened to disgorge a worried Claire and Ehren. Colombe frowned and moved more luggage to the growing pile beside the cabinet to Moulbaix. A third time the cabinet opened to let Toku out and the last of the luggage.

"That's all." Colombe snapped out as she walked to the solitary door leading out of the room. She chanted in Latin and then grasped the brass handle, twisting it fully clockwise in a circle. The door vanished, revealing a lantern lit set of stone stairs. Colombe took them two at a time with her daughters and Toku hot on her heels.

Toku blinked at a corridor going off to the side with some underground rooms with old beds and furniture faintly visible in the light of the Lumos spells the four had cast.

At the top Colombe climbed up a ladder into a lantern-lit basement with bins half-full of apples. She turned on the packed dirt of the floor and helped Claire and Ehren out of the passageway, followed by Toku. Ehren looked at her mother. "Should I do the honors?"

"Oui," Colombe responded absently as she nibbled her lip nervously. Ehren walked to a nearby antique tin lantern hanging from the rafters, and took it down, igniting the Everburning Candle inside it with a spell. As the candle lit, the floor rippled and the entrance to the hidden sub-basement shimmered and then vanished leaving behind no trace of its existence. Ehren then smirked and hung the lantern up to join the other ones illuminating the cellar.

Tokunotakai blinked. "That is an impressive trick. That is no illusion but actually Transfiguration of the floor."

Ehren nodded her head as she walked past the rows of fruit bins. "Ja. It is a spell put into place by Tante Jèzebel a hundred and fifty years ago. This house was used as a way station on one of the lines that helped escaped slaves to flee to Canada. The rooms below us were used to house them as they made their way to freedom."

Colombe opened the cellar door. "It is a clever hiding place indeed. Remind me when we get back to Moulbaix to show you the Priest Hole that we have in the castle to hide the family chaplain from the Jacobin mob during the Revolution."

Ehren followed Colombe up the stairs to the ground floor of the house. "Interesting, Mutti. So, was it ever used?"

Colombe shook her head, "No, Ehren. The family fled the castle in 1792 to Vienna and only returned in 1809 after the madmen were suppressed quite thoroughly. I'm the only person who even knows of it and the other secret passages now."

Then Colombe's eyes widened as she saw Jacklyn in the hall ahead of her. "Jackie! I heard about Del and Zamarad. How are they?!" She asked with a minor quaver in her voice.

Jackie sighed and spoke in a hoarse voice, "They are up in her bedroom. Jez is sitting in with them. They," Jackie's voice broke and Colombe hugged her, "were pretty messed up. One of Jez's operations went really bad on them."

Ehren and Claire joined the hug, followed by Toku. "Jez's letter said that they were in comas. Kasuyu said that he would be helping out when he phoned me." Colombe whispered as she hugged her piratical sister to her.

Jackie buried her head in Colombe's shoulder, "He's been in and out helping, Aomi too. Jez... This is hitting her hard. Harder than when Father left her for good."

Colombe nodded soberly and released Jackie. "I'm here, Jackie, and I'll hold the fort. I promise."
-----------------------

Spoiler: Redeeming A Promise

Colombe steeled herself as she opened the door to Delilah's bedroom.

The large carved chestnut bed was surrounded by six brightly polished brass incense burners in a hexagon emitting spiraling tendrils of sandalwood incense. Beyond the bed, there was a roaring hardwood fire in the fireplace. The drapes had been drawn back to show the darkness of the evening-shrouded fields and orchards beyond.

Jèzebel de Breuil, her face lined and tears slowly falling from her eyes sat in an armchair dragged to the side of the bed like a worn and weary gargoyle overlooking a cathedral.

All these things Colombe saw and processed in an instant, but they were secondary to the two still figures on the bed lying side by side.

Zamarad, her face, limbs, and torso heavily bandaged was lying on the left with her dusky face ghostly pale and her chest barely rising and falling.

To the right, Delilah lay, equally waxen and pale. Fewer bandages covered her though, and her revolver body was sitting on a side table in a clear tank of repair fluid.

Colombe looked over her shoulder at the others and shook her head. "Not just yet, girls, To-chan. I... need to see her first alone."

The others nodded solemnly. Colombe stepped inside and walked slowly to Jèzebel's side, her spine as stiff and straight as her steel and her face stricken.

"Jez, I came as soon as I got your message. I'm...." Colombe's voice broke and her tears began to fall. She swallowed and then resumed, "I'm sorry that I wasn't here for Del and Zamarad. I'm sorry that I was not here to protect my little sister. What happened?"

Jèzebel closed her eyes and spoke in a hoarse whisper. "The network got information about a potential Abyssal Cult in Maine. In a small magical village called Kingsport. We sent in one of our agents to investigate. He... vanished so Delilah elected to act by leading a MIB raid backed up by allies in the FBI and Navy. We had certain indications that it was linked to some elements of MACUSA... perhaps."

The elderly witch opened her eyes and stared at the only children that she would ever have. "It was a rogue MACUSA operation, I believe. They had some kind of a magical locus that could attract and direct Abyssals apparently and were using it to hit no-maj towns and naval facilities in New England."

Colombe's fists clenched and the breath hissed through her teeth. "Delilah disrupted the ritual that they were using, but the locus was active and bringing the Abyssals ashore before any help could arrive. She...." Jèzebel whispered with sad pride in her voice, "goaded several bound wendigo spirits they had into chasing her into the Abyssals to buy time for the shipgirls that she had as backup to land and protect the town. Time that she would be buying with her life. Zamarad tripped a TOTEM Fiendfyre security spell then took control of it to supercharge herself at the risk of her life and went to Delilah's aid. After the battle, the survivors found them lying together and near dead."

Jèzebel looked at her daughter's face and spoke in a bitter tone full of regret. "I wanted Delilah to be a hero that would make the world proud to give Norimune something that could never be taken from her. I promised Norimune that when I found out that I was with her child. Even if the history books wrote Nori out of existence she would still be Delilah's father. For all of Delilah's life, I pushed her, challenged her, molded her, used her...."

Jèzebel broke down and wept as Colombe held her. "....and I may have finally killed my baby girl trying to make her her fulfill my promise."

"Delilah, please come back to me!" The heartbroken witch sobbed as Ehren, Claire, and Toku entered to hug and support her.

 

[darthcourt10]

Harry Leferts

It was a Harry who was exhausted, sweaty, and whose arms felt like they were going to fall off who gave a soft sigh of relief when Okita finally gave him the okay to stop. The reaction of which was something that amused said Samurai greatly... until she smiled a bit wider and chuckled, "Now, for the cool down."

For a few moments, the teenage wizard stared at her before internally groaning, and internally as he knew better than to outwardly do it. Something else that Okita seemed to know and amuse her. That said, the teenage girl went through the same cool down as he did, stretching and the like as she made small talk.

Head tilted to the side as he performed the various stretches and the like alongside Okita, both of them having removed the rest of their armor and placing it to the side for now, Harry glanced at her, "So this is generally the same way that you trained the rest of the Shinsengumi, Okita-Chan? Really?"

Okita gave him a small smile before she tilted her head from side to side, "Generally, hai." She then gave a shrug as she stretched, "Though there are differences, such as the stretches and such. Makes it a lot easier for students now and I am taking it a bit easier on you. But yes, you are right."

Considering that for a few moments, the male teen nodded slowly, "Huh... how long did you generally train them for, if I can ask?"

With a hum, Okita thought it over before nodding, "Well, it was not very long, usually a few months. Give or take anyways."

Eyes widening, Harry boggled at her, "Wait, a few months? But I thought that it took longer to get good at swordfighting." At the snickers from Okita as well as the other two incarnated, he thought that there was some sort of joke there that he did not know, "What?"

Shaking her head, the pale haired swordwoman smiled a little, "It's nothing, Harry-Kun. But..." For a second or two, she paused before shrugging, "You are right that it takes years to truly master the blade. But at the time, we were not quite so concerned with such things due to the fighting that was going on. Rather, we were more concerned with teaching them basics with the sword for those who did not know or polishing what was there for those who did. None of us Captains or Commanders expected them to become swordmasters quickly, but we did expect them to be able to use at least the basics on the battlefield without danger to their comrades or themselves. A strong, well made base of the basics is a foundation upon which you build your ability to use the sword. And one who has mastered even the basics can beat someone who has reached an intermediate level but has not had the same competency in the basics."

At that, understanding bloomed on Harry's face, "So that is what you're doing, helping me polish the basics?"

Just nodding with a smile on her face, Okita chuckled, "Correct." She gave him a considering look, "While extremely rough at the moment, I can see that there is a style there. I take it that the style in particular is from Hoshi-San, who has been your sensei?"

Lightly blushing, the nearly fourteen year old wizard nodded, "Hai, that's right."

Her lips twitching, Okita smiled a touch wider, "Good, and it is likely a style that she has refined over centuries." Briefly, there was a look of wistfulness, "To be able to do such... to take one's style and improve upon it over centuries. That would be something..."

Not quite sure what to say to that, Harry kept silent himself, unlike Nobu who grinned, "What? Would you marry your style if you could rather than your blade? Because I know which one that I would rather."

Both teens look over at Nobu who was waggling her eyebrows suggestively before sighing.

Deciding to ignore that for now, Okita turned back to Harry, "Still, I can take the basics of what she is teaching you and help you to get better via mastering them. In the Shinsengumi, that was what myself and other instructors did, with those under us improving upon their technique as they fought on the battlefield or sparred with us. Perhaps it is not much, but it is what works and did work for us well enough."

Uesugi hummed from where she sat with an amused look on her face, "Perhaps, or perhaps it is what is needed. For a student eventually needs to learn on their own and to make a style personal to themselves." She then tilted her head a bit, "Still, learning the basics and mastering them is important for a swordsman or swordswoman, as the case may be."

Hands behind her head, Nobu shrugged some as she kicked out her legs, "Yeah... both Okita-Chan and Uesugi-Chan are right about that. If a foundation is weak or cracked, than a castle would fall when the earth shudders no matter how magnificent it may be." Motioning with a hand, she shook her head, "I had many men under me who knew the basics and whom I had trained to polish those, and often they were more the match for those who would have been considered higher ranked in their schools, if only because they mastered what they did have, rather than just learn it and move on without mastering."

Slowly, Harry nodded in understanding at what was being told to him. Sure, there was a part of him that wanted to move on and learn the more 'Awesome' moves, he would not deny that. After all, he was a teenage boy and it would have been cool. But, at the same time, he understood what they were telling him as well about the basics. He also knew that they had more experience in such things than he did, so he had no issue believing that they were right in this matter.

Eventually, however, he was done with his stretches and stood up alongside his current 'Sensei'. Stretching her arms wide, Okita grinned madly, "And now... for my payment for the lesson!"

Just sharing a look of amusement with the others, Harry walked over to the box that was off to one side and picked it up before walking over. Opening it, he checked inside before nodding a little and holding it out, "Here you go, strawberry squares."

Her eyes practically sparkling, Okita took the hand santizer offered by Uesugi and used it before taking one of the squares. She noted the slightly crumbly crust above and below the deep red filling before taking a bite and happily humming as she chewed, 'Ah... the best payment...'

Lips twitching as she looked at her friend, Uesugi poured her some tea which she handed over to the pale haired teenage girl before taking a square herself. Taking a bite, she nodded some as she chewed, "This is quite good."

Nobu also took one and bit into it before grinning, "Yeah, this is pretty good." After having another bite, she looked at the dessert with an interested look before turning to Harry, "So where is this from?" Seeing his expression, the former warlord snorted a little, "You were one of the best back in school at baking and things. But you did make various treats from Britain."

Raising a finger, her fellow reincarnate from the Sengoku Jidai spoke up, "That is very true." Uesugi gave him a slight smile, "I remember the oat cakes you made and how popular they were."

A sniffle made them turn to Okita who had a pout on her face, "I miss all the sweet things that you made in class." Seeing their looks, she huffed a little, "What? Don't deny it, both of you do as well."

Snickers came from Nobu before she shook her head and turned back to Harry, "So?"

With a small shrug, Harry shook his head, "Not much to tell, really. In this case? I used a recipe that I picked up from one of the Canadian shipgirls for a dessert that they call date squares, and switched out the dates for strawberries among other things. I've also made apple versions and the like."

Considering that for a few moments, the lone member of the Shinsengumi frowned in thought as she finished off hers before taking a sip of her tea to wash it down. With a hum, Okita took another one and bit into it, "I wonder what the date ones taste like then."

More than a little amused, Harry chuckled some and gave a shrug, "If you want, I can make some of those for the next time? That way you can try it though, uh..." Scratching the back of his neck, he frowned a little, "They are kind of sticky and somewhat sweeter than what most would think."

Only shrugging herself, Okita shook her head, "I don't mind, anything sweet is good."

Unable to help himself, the wizard snickered a bit, "Hai, I remember that at least from school." A thoughtful look came across his face and he looked towards Okita, "Did you always like sweets, or..."

Chewing her food, Okita looked at him and realized his question before nodding, "Hai, I did love sweets even back in my previous life." A soft sigh escaped her as she nibbled a bit at her square, "Nothing like a nice, warm dango..." For a few moments, the former Shinsengumi stayed like that before shaking her head, "But if there is one thing that I am glad about in regards to the modern day, it is the sheer variety of sweets."

Lips curled into a smirk, Nobu glanced at her, "Well, we just need to make sure that all those sweets don't make you fat."

For several seconds the pale haired teen girl looked at her friend before smirking herself and looking down at her chest, "Well, in my case, it goes to the right places unlike some~" Ignoring the sputters from Nobu and Harry coughing, she gave a shrug, "Besides which, all my kendo practice as well as exercise means that I don't need to worry nearly as much about that as other girls."

Glancing at Nobu, who was grumbling, Harry took a sip of his tea, "I see..." A few minutes later, he noticed that Nobu was looking at one of her bangs and grumbling some, "Is... something wrong, Nobu-Chan?"

Just blinking, the former head of the Oda looked over at him, "Eh?"

With a sigh, Okita rolled her eyes some, "She's just checking her hair to check that her dye job is still working."

That really made Harry blink before he turned to Nobu who had a slight blush on her face, "Dye job? You dye your hair?"

Arms crossed, Nobu sighed some but nodded just the same, "Hai, I do." She waved a hand around, "My hair is normally dark brown, almost black but... I've noticed that it has been turning red." Then, the former warlord shook her head some, "It's slow though, just a few strands here and there. From what my Kaa-San told me, one of my great-grandparents was an American soldier with red hair, so... who knows? I dye it to keep it matched."

Both girls nodded at that though Harry frowned in thought and looked at his friend, "You know... you might look good with red hair." He then grinned some, "Heck, claim that it is red because you are a demon and it is colored by the blood of thousands that soak your form."

Upon seeing the thoughtful look on Nobu's face, Uesugi sighed, "Please don't encourage her, Harry-Kun."

In reply, the black haired wizard shrugged some with his response getting a cackle from Nobu, "Can't be helped!" Suddenly, Harry had a thought occur to him due to a history program from the night before, "Hey, Nobu-Chan? Mind if I ask you about something from your previous life?"

Eyebrow raised, Nobu leaned forward, "Sure, I don't mind." A grin appeared on her face, "As these two can tell you, talking about my greatness is one of my favorite things to do!"

Snorting, Harry considered his question before turning to Nobu with an interested look on his face, "Well... last night, there was a history program on and it was talking about Hideyoshi..."

Only blinking, the former warlord hummed, "About Monkey, huh?" Scratching her chin, Nobu frowned a bit, "Well, it depends on when since I was, ya know, kind of dead for part of his life."

With a shake of his head, Harry frowned some, "Well, it is about after you died, but still has to do with you. See... they were talking about Hideyoshi's invasion of Korea after he united most of Japan under him. It's obvious that a good chunk of why he did it was because, well... large army of people who have been fighting decades wouldn't transition to peace easily. So best send them to be someone else's problem."

Uesugi snorted some at that and shook her head, "I will admit that it... makes a certain amount of sense to do so, yes. Still a foolish thing however."

Glancing at her, the teenage wizard nodded before turning back to Nobu who had an interested expression, "Well, one of the things they mentioned was that Hideyoshi did it because it was part of your dream. And that you claimed once you united Japan, you would conquer China next. So I was wondering..."

Very slowly, Nobu nodded with a frown on her face, "You're wondering if I actually was planning on doing that?"

Arms crossed, Okita frowned as well, "I remember reading that myself, both in this life and the next." She then shrugged some, "It does sound like something that you would do."

Laughing, the former warlord grinned widely, "It truly does, does it not?" Nobu stroked her chin a little bit, "As to your question, hmm..."

Shrugging, Harry tilted his head some, "I ask because, well... from what they said, no one else confirmed what he claimed, not even Ieyasu did. I could ask Honjo-San, of course, but..."

Nobu softly snorted at that and shook her head, "She might not know either." Taking one of the last strawberry squares, she looked at it for a few moments before beginning to nibble at it, "Hmm... actually, I do know the answer as well as why Ieyasu stated I never said that. Because, in fact, I both did say it and did not."

That made each of the other teens blink in confusion. More than a little befuddled, Harry frowned at her, "You... did say it? But also didn't?"

With a hum, Nobu nodded some, "Hai." Taking a sip of tea, she had a far off look on her face, "It was about a year before my death in fact, at a Moon viewing party Ieyasu was hosting. Victory looked within our grasp at the time, the full unification of Japan being something that we were close to completing. All of us were well into our cups as it were and pretty drunk. Heh... It was quite fun as Kote-chan is something of a clinger while drunk, you know. And when her kimono became a wee bit loose..."

Coughing, Uesugi gave her a look before adjusting her glasses, "Nobu-Chan... story."

Just blinking, the former head of the Oda nodded, "Right, right..." Rubbing her chin, she frowned a little, "Well, as I said, we were all drunk and could see that we were close to victory and getting closer with each passing day. Oh, we knew that it would be years, but... we could also tell that within a decade, we could pull it off. So, my son, Nobutada asked me what I would do once we conquered Japan." Clearing her voice, and also blinking a small amount of wetness at the thought of her eldest son, Nobu took a deep breath before speaking, "And I said... 'What should we do next after we unite Japan, my son!? Well, we shall make Japan powerful under us and able to stand up to those outside the nation! Perhaps even take China! Yes, that would be a fine thing, would it not, Monkey? Ieyasu? To be Emperor of China as well as Shogun of Japan?' And Ieyasu laughed and said that meant that I would need to wear the hat of the Chinese Emperor and it would look horrible upon my head!"

Only chuckling, Uesugi shook her head, "Ah, Ieyasu... he was truly an interesting fellow."

Laughing a bit, Nobu grinned, "He was at that, trust me." After a few seconds, she shook her head, "Well, I agreed with him about that the hat would look bad on my head and so forth. Then the two of us got to discussion as to whether being Chinese Emperor would make me greater than the Emperor of Japan or not. Because the Emperor had his line go from the fog of history while the Chinese changed their dynasties like one would clothing at times." Waving her hand, she shook her head, "So, yeah, in regards to your question, Harry-Kun? I did say that I would conquer China, but it was mostly in jest at best. Nothing serious."

Intrigued, and finishing off her square, Okita took a sip of her own tea, "So what would have been your plans next, Nobu-Chan? I doubt that you would have stopped with just Japan."

Blinking, Nobu gave a small nod, "And you would be right, Okita-Chan." She gave a chuckle and shook her head, "I didn't really have fully formed plans at the time. Now, I will admit, that if I had the chance I might have tried to take China. But... for the most part I was planning on going either north, to take Hokkaido, or Ezo as it was known fully. If I took that, then chances are that upon finding out about Sakhalin, I might have tried for it as well. Would have been much easier than Korea. Alternatively, go south and take the Ryukyu Kingdom like what was done in a few decades. But those would have been distractions for the soldiery, all the time I would have implimented my planned reforms and made them stick." Then, the former warlord scratched her chin, "Now, if I was still alive after my reforms were complete and able? Then, maybe, I would have tried to go after China as Japan would have been in a stronger position after at least a decade of being united. But unlike Monkey, I would not have advertised it as he did and given them the chance to build up."

At that, the others just nodded in thought.

 

[darthcourt10]

Kab2

I bring you the next part of Sofia's adventures, I hope you like it:

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

Once again, Sofia reached the island she inhabited after a day of exploring, but today she didn't look happy because she discovered the body of one from her fleet, and she felt responsible of her death even if she deserved it, because she knew the reason her fleet were this north of their base was that they were looking for her.

Feeling down, she walked to the outpost to rumiate her guilt, she felt another twinge of guilt as she remembered the friend left behind when she fled her fleet.

As always after she inhabited the island, her captain reached out out and asked for permission to materialize, but this time she turned him down.

"Not today Captain." said Sofia "I want to be 'alone' with my thoughts, sorry."

Saluting he dissapeared inside her hold again and she entered the outpost, but as she passed the door, she noticed the sword at the wall.

Narrowing her eyes she spoke to the sword. "You know, in the month passed since I brought you here some food has dissapeared, do you know anything about it?" Asked Sofia.

If she expected an answer, none was given.

"Well, I suspected as much." she said shrugging. "Either way telling you about my life will help me even if you are an inanimate object."

She started to talk "You know, from my birth I was marked, in my fleet I was the only one with red hair, I didn't know why until much later, I was pointed at because of it, ridiculed for not being normal enough; not much later, I became interested in the humans as beings like me, capable of infinite possibilities, of building things like this outpost or transports through air or water; but when I exposed my ideas to some of my fleet they laughed and began to hurt me, saying that what they were doing to me was the least we had to do to the humans"

Pausing a bit, she put a pained face remembering that moment."And when I went to my ma- to my princess to ask why they had hurt me, she said that they were right, that the humans were subjects to kill or experiment upon, so I have to learn to kill or imprison them." she braced herself as she was saying this."This was a shock to me and I ran from her without a direction, crying as I realized that none of my fleet shared my thoughts. I stopped in the hangar where the Wa-class transports were stationed, feeling safe as they only followed very simple orders without an sliver of intelligence and no one of her fleet came there, I rested near one and spilled my heart out as I wept, but the Wa I was near approached me and put her chest in my head, as she consoling me" she said smiling.

Walking away a bit to get some food, she brought a log that acted as a chair and continued explaining her life. "Do you know how I felt?, I felt relieved, that one of my fleet suported me, even if it was a Wa-class, from that moment onwards she was my support and confidant, I didn't know if she understood what I was telling her or not, but she always did the same whenever I felt sad, I thought she was more empathetic than the other Was, but now I think different." She smiled sadly at the memory of her only friend. "I hid my thoughts about the humans from the others and always complied to the orders of my princess, luckily there were only exploration and research until 6 months ago; I was entrusted with the duty of recognizing the way for a convoy, a Wa-class and two Tsu-class with orders to retrieve some goods from a wreck at the bottom of the sea; it went well until halfway the return, I was exploring the front a bit ahead of them when the shipgirls attacked the convoy from the sides, I was unaware of it until some time passed and they didn't give signals of live when I surfaced, I retraced my steps and I found them dead."

Putting away the empty can, she sighed."I felt sad and guilty as it was my fault, my old Captain saying that I was useless as he always stated, but I was shocked because another thing; the helmet of the Wa-class was broken, and it revealed a face; an human face I recognized from a very rowdy human my fleet captured a year before, whose disappearance I noted, and I remembered that this Wa-class was comissioned not long after it and the disposal of strange lumps from her laboratory sometimes; and the pieces fell in their places; the humans my princess captured she converted them in Wa-class or she experimented on them until they died, or some members of the fleet who failed their mission." she put her hand on her forehead and snorted "And then I saw the shipgirls coming from the south so I panicked, I dived until I hit the bottom and swam as fast as I could to the north, until I reached this island."

Looking down, she said with a sad voice "I escaped from the shipgirls, but my problems didn't finish there; my captain ordered me to refill and go back to my fleet, and I asked him why I should go back to someone who converted humans in mindless transports if not something worse, and he replied that it didn't matter to him, that we were now the superior race and the humans were to be under our feet to do whatever we desired." she paused a bit as she looked at the sword. "I felt betrayed my my own crew and I went to the captain's cabin and locked myself inside. There again I wept and cursed myself for not being the same as the others, I don't know how much time passed, until there was a knock at the door, and I saw that 3 hours passed away, I told to whoever it was out of the door that I won't open it, but Lieutenant Hüttenwerk insisted that he had to talk with me of some very important matters, so he convinced me to talk." A little smirk came to her lips. "Then he told me something interesting, he said that all my imps remembered a life that wasn't theirs, but they all had something in common, me, or more likely the submarine that my princess scrapped to use as materials for me, he got this information from other imps when he asked for permission to leave me for some time at the base, also he supposed that it was the reason they had those memories and the fact that my insides were a copy of that submarine."

She entwined her hands and became thoughtful. "That answered some questions about my situation, but the following information was revealing, as he said the name of that submarine, U-919, comissioned in secret by the magical side of Spain and Germany in an apparently neutral mission to explore the seabed, so that explained my hobby too, but with the name only came a sense of familiarity, not ownership."

"But that wasn't all, he explained to me that he was the secret envoy of the Abwehr to monitor the activities at the secret base, he was originally destined to U-573, but its sale to the spaniards forced him to wait until the post in U-919 that began its construction in 1943; he arrived at May 1944 to the secret island where the construction was, and became horrified at what he saw there, he heard rumours about the jewish concentration camps at home but never believed it until he reached there, but instead of jews there were spanish prisoners, those who opposed the Spanish Minister of Magic, controlled with a curse by the officer at charge of the base, and further investigation confirmed that his superiors lied to him, this wasn't for what he signed for, he wanted a greater Germany but not with those methods; so he resolved to kill the officer, free the prisoners and escape using the almost finished submarine."

Sofia sighed again. "But it didn't develop as planned, the officer had a security plan if he was killed, and as they were getting into the submarine, something exploded and the island turned into hell. Fiendfyre burned all the island to ashes and made a breach in the submarine, so no one survived that day. And when my princess took the island as base, it seems that she inspected the submarine remains and used its structure to design a So-class submarine, me; she used the its remains as materials for me and I was born."

"And then Hüttenwerk told me that the prisoners were still in my hull, but the crew hid it from me; the Captain told me that they were combat imps that needed to be incarcerated as they attacked anything that moved and believing him I didn't feel the need to distrust him, but at Hüttenkerk's request I looked into the expanded cargo hold they were imprisoned, and I saw the Captain's lie."

"I was furious with the Captain, one thing was to scorn me but another was to lie to me, but then the Lieutenant proposed me a plan; a mutiny on the ship, he knew who to trust and who to not as the others didn't knew what happened at the island, so we executed the plan, after the riot I ascended Hüttenkerk to Captain and he commanded the few original crew remaining and the freed prisoners, who accepted the official enlistment to my crew and to be trained in their duties. Afterwards I settled in this island, buried the corpse of a mage I found at the beach and began to explore the seabed."

Warmingly smiling Sofia said. "In one of the expeditions, I saw a transport ship that had a hull breach at the bottom and it was sinking, without thinking I reached to it and towed the ship to a near beach, where I bellowed the ship in the rocks. I surfaced to see if the humans inside needed some help, but the looks I got from the majority were hate 'An abyssal saved us? Impossible!! surely she saved us to play with us until we die.' was one of the milder things they said. I was debating what to do until one said 'Look, a shipgirl is coming to save us! It's Lady Warspite!' looking to where they were pointing I saw one of the protectors of the humans, a shipgirl as they named her. Knowing that I wasn't a match for her I fled inmediately to my base to lay low for a while. But when we reached the island a problem arised. Hüttenwerk remembered that Warspite was an english battleship at the time he was alive, so he said that maybe the shipgirl was the spirit of that ship; at that moment I knew that he was right."

Clutching her right wrist with her left hand she looked at her right hand while she opened and closed them. "Who am I?" she asked. "I am the only abyssal I know that her crew has memories of humans that were inside or commisioned into a ship, but I know I am not the spirit of U-919, and my crew only has the memories of the humans, they know they aren't them." She embraced herself with a frightened expression. "I am me, but at the same time I am not me, I am Sofia, not U-919" she began to tremble "I am a doppelgänger and am I keeping U-919 from being brought back?" she grabbed her head. "Maybe she already came back and loathes me? I don't know, I don't want to know, but at the same time I want to."

After a while she calmed herself and returned to a normal stand.

Sofia continued "After a long break and coming somewhat to terms with it I decided that whatever is true, I am myself, so until I know the truth I will live towards the future." she smiled. "And that is my life, thanks for hearing me, I feel better now." she turned to take a well needed rest.

But as she walked away she felt something, turning around she saw the sword becoming alive, red circles drawing theirselves in its surface as dark sparkles flowed from it until a body appeared from thin air.

It was a human female clad in dark knight armor, yellow hair, yellow eyes and pale skin. she took the sword and putting the tip on the floor, she crossed her hands over the hilt.

"I see we are kindred spirits, so I revealed myself." said the knight in a monotone voice. "You are the one who will be my Master from this day onwards."

 

[darthcourt10]

Yellowhammer

The Family That Slays Together.... (II)

15 July 2014

De Breuil Estate, Upstate New York

The Vanishing Cabinet to Castle Moulbaix opened in the hidden subbasement and Ehren stepped out with a small pack containing the ofudas, gohei wand, brush kit, and other reagents that Tokunotakai had asked her to retrieve from the miko's room at Moulbaix. Her other hand held the mail for her mother that had come in.

And a letter to herself that had just arrived yesterday alongside the news of Delilah's condition. Ehren focused on that creamy sealed envelope to avoid having to think about the possibly dying -- no don't think of that, Aunt Del and Aunt Zamarad had to get better right? -- aunts upstairs watched over by her family.

Ehren's thumb rubbed over the crimson blot of sealing wax that kept it secured. She wasn't familiar with the crest on it, although she immediately recognized the design of the coat of arms as European-derived.
Spoiler: The Seal

A knight's helmet surmounting the field.... Signifying nobility.

A lion rampant in the Dexter Chief point.... Lions signified courage, strength, nobility.... In fact Belgium's coat of arms had a lion rampant.

A serpent glissant in the Sinister Chief point.... That was odd since snakes were extremely ambiguous animals in Western heraldry.... A sign of wisdom, yes, but also lies, vengefulness, and vindictiveness.

A badger passant regardant in the Dexter base point.... Ehren did not know what to make of this one, since in her limited study of history, Folklore, and heraldry she had never heard of any coat of arms that used a badger.... Which was surprising, perhaps, because while they were normally peaceful, when provoked in defense of their families and burrows they would be utterly savage and ferocious....

Ehren's lips curled into a smile as she remembered that the Dachshund was literally bred to go into holes to flush and hunt badgers in the early 18th Century when Mutti was a girl. They were a beloved dog in her native Germany, becoming a symbol of her nation. A flash of memory and she saw Vati as a young boy throwing a stick for Maxi and Fritzi to chase. She then giggled slightly at the memory of the two dachshund pups being caught quarreling over Opa's accordion.
Spoiler: Maxi und Fritzi

With that smile still on her lips, her thumb moved to the sinister base with the last of the four animals.

A bird of some kind with his wings displayed and inverted. Ehren didn't think that it was an eagle (and it certainly was not a Prussian eagle) since the beak was too long. A corvus such as a crow, rook, or raven perhaps?

Perhaps.

And in the exact center, the Fess point was a smaller shield containing the letter H in pretense. And at the bottom the motto of the individual whose arms this was.

'Draco Dormiens Nunquam Titillandus'

'Never tickle a sleeping dragon.'

Ehren chuckled and closed the passage to the subbasement. Words to live by, she supposed, or at least someone in this person's family had a sense of humor.
-----------------------

She gave a smile to Aomi Sato as faint piano music came from upstairs. "Hello Aomi. Is there any change?"

The young Inugami woman shook her head as she turned from the kitchen stove. "None. Jackie-chan is about to come 'off watch' as she is calling it. Colombe-san and Jezabel-san are sleeping now; Jackie-chan spiked their coffee with Sleeping Draught. Toku-san is going to relieve Jackie-chan."
Spoiler: Claire Serenades Aunt Del

Ehren smiled. "Sehr gut. Mutti has been beside herself ever since she heard. I need not ask what my sister is doing."

Aomi shook her head. "She moved the piano into the room and has been playing... Gershwin I believe?"

Ehren nodded. "Ja. Tante Del likes Gershwin. I have learned not to question Claire's choices of music to play." The dagger wiped her eyes with her wrist. "I... remember being injured and lying in bed and hearing her through my pain and distress."

Aomi hugged Ehren. "I'll run this plate upstairs to her, you and Toku before I turn in with Jackie."

"Thank you," the dagger replied before heading to the bedroom.
-----------------------

True to form, Claire was playing piano for the unconscious Delilah and Zamarad. Ehren's lips curled into a small fond smile as she looked at the brunette head pouring her heart and soul into the playing of Tante Jez's Henry Z. Steinway Limited Edition rosewood piano. Ehren remembered that piano had been gifted by Mutti and Jackie to the de Breuils for the Christmas before Blood Week. It was famous in the family for being a piano that Claire had gushed over at first sight, much to the not hidden at all delight of the family who knew that she had selected it. After a 'test run' of Balakirev's Islamey (Oriental Fantasy), Claire then loudly declared 'she was as suitable for her playing as an actual Bösendorfer was' to the assembled family.
Spoiler: Claire's Test Run

Spoiler: Jez's Piano

Beside the sickbed, Toku was sitting in seiza and meditating to the piano music. The Masamune cocked her head at Ehren and nodded in greeting before opening her eyes.

Ehren walked to the side of Toku and spoke quietly. "I have the items you asked for me to get when I took the luggage home."

"Domo arigatou, Ehren-chan." Toku responded. "With luck I can help strengthen and revive their spirits."

The miko sighed and looked at the pale young ladies. "They both... expended much of their spirit in battle, like a flame that consumes all its fuel available and is reduced to just cooling coals. Perhaps I can help them return to their body from... wherever their spirits have wandered."

Ehren hugged Toku around the shoulders. "I shall do what I can to help you save them," the dagger took a deep breath, leaned in, and spoke in a barely audible puff of breath, "Stiefmutter."

Toku's hug tightened. "Thank you Ehren. I shall need an extensive time alone to prepare, purify, and fortify my spirit for the ritual. Can you and your sister take over watching over them, changing the bandages, and feeding them the healing potion laced broth?"

Ehren snapped to attention. "Jawohl, Toku."
--------------------

"What do you have there, Ehren?" The sound of her sister's voice pulled Ehren out of her silent vigil over her aunts. She looked at the piano where Claire was flexing her hands and taking a drink of water.

"Letters that arrived while we were in Japan, Claire." Ehren responded, blushing slightly as she continued, "Draco sent two. Niobe sent one. Nimue sent one addressed to us both. Ron sent one. I have two from Passel House for you -- I think one might be from Summer -- that arrived day before yesterday via owl mail. Last but not least, I was sent this by a mystery sender."

Ehren held up the sealed mystery envelope for observation.

Claire blinked as she took the letters marked for her and the one addressed to both girls by Nimue. "Well, you should open it and find out who your mystery admirer is, Ehren."

Ehren nodded and with a flick of her wrist drew her true self to break the seal. "Ja, Claire."

Parchment crinkled as she opened the letter.

Then Ehren froze in shock as her steel-blue eyes scanned the words on the first page of the letter.
Spoiler: An Unexpected Letter

HOGWARTS SCHOOL of WITCHCRAFT and WIZARDRY


Headmaster: Albus Dumbledore (Order of Merlin, First Class, Grand Sorc., Chf. Warlock,
Supreme Mugwump, International Confed. of Wizards)


Dear Ms. Ehren du Chasteler,

We are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted at Hogwarts School of Witchraft and Wizardry. Please find enclosed a list of all necessary books and equipment.

Term begins on 1 September. We await your owl by no later than 31 July.

Yours sincerely,


Minerva McGonagall

Deputy Headmistress

Ehren's eyes bulged and her unguarded smile lit up her face as she comprehended what this meant for her, for her promise to Aunt Del, for her family, for her friends who went to Hogwarts nine months out of the year.

Claire squealed in excitement at her sister's clear joy and then crushed Ehren from behind with her happy hug as the piano read the letter over her shoulder. "Ehren! You're going to be trained as a witch like Mother wanted to be!"

Ehren blinked happy tears out of her eyes as she reread the letter once more. "Ja, ich werde sein. I'll make her proud. I'll make all of you proud. I promise."