Chapter 123 - Chapter 123: Trouble In The Dreams

By the time Yuuki returned to the village, the long battle was finally coming to an end.

His Mark 86 descended from the sky, its repulsors slowing his approach before his boots touched the ground.

At almost the same time, Kaguya, Irisviel, and Sheffield arrived from the opposite direction.

Flying had cut their travel time considerably.

Kaguya landed first, carrying one of the unconscious Shipgirls, while Irisviel and Sheffield followed close behind.

The sight immediately drew the attention of the villagers.

After everything they had endured, seeing their rescuers return alive brought a wave of relief through the crowd.

Yuuki removed his helmet.

"Everyone made it back?"

Kaguya smiled.

"Aye. We have."

Yuu, Vestal, Mary, and Pepper immediately moved in.

"There they are," Yuu said. "Bring them inside."

The medical team quickly took over.

Irisviel and Sheffield were examined first, followed by Weser and Seydlitz. Gloucester, Liverpool, and Manchester were also brought in for examination.

Fortunately, none of them had suffered any serious physical injuries.

Their bodies were exhausted, however.

The prolonged battle, the stress of the rescue operation, and the psychological strain of everything they had endured had taken their toll.

Yuu carefully monitored their condition while Vestal, Mary, and Pepper assisted with treatment.

"We don't need to treat physical trauma," Yuu explained. "Their bodies are fine."

She looked toward Weser and Seydlitz.

"The problem is their minds."

The two Iron Blood Shipgirls remained completely unresponsive.

Not dead.

Not injured.

Simply trapped in a deep mental coma.

Yuu and the others worked carefully to remove the lingering mental exhaustion and psychological suppression left behind by their imprisonment.

After some time, their condition finally stabilized.

Yuu checked the readings one more time.

"The mental coma has been cleared."

She smiled faintly.

"They'll need some time to adjust to waking up, though."

"How long?" Yuuki asked.

"Probably a few more hours."

Yuuki nodded.

"As long as they're coming back."

"They are," Yuu assured him.

That was enough for him.

Outside, another development was already underway.

Veronica had completed construction of the Signal Gap Inhibitor.

The towering device activated at the middle of the island.

A wave of interference spread outward, disrupting communications and targeting signals around the island while simultaneously masking it from Rapture satellite surveillance.

The island effectively disappeared from their network.

For the first time in a long while, there was no immediate threat hanging over the village.

The people slowly realized it.

Then someone cheered.

Another followed.

Soon, the entire village erupted into celebration.

Cheers echoed through the streets.

People hugged one another.

Some cried.

Others simply stood there, looking toward the sky as though they couldn't believe they had survived.

The northern village finally removed the blockade separating it from the southern settlement.

The barricades were opened.

The people from the southern side were finally allowed to return home.

After everything that had happened, the island was finally beginning to breathe again.

And Yuuki?

He had nothing left.

The moment the immediate crisis ended, the exhaustion caught up with him.

He sat down inside the cathedral.

"Finally..."

He leaned back.

His eyes slowly closed.

Yuu noticed.

She smiled softly.

"The long mission is finally over. We haven't had any rest since the Mother Whale."

Yuuki didn't answer.

He was already asleep.

Jarvis detected the change in his vital signs and quietly assumed control of the Mark 86.

The armor carefully lifted its sleeping pilot inside it.

"Rest well, Sir," Jarvis said quietly.

The armor carried Yuuki deeper into the cathedral, toward one of the larger guest rooms reserved for church officials.

There, the Mark 86 carefully placed Yuuki onto one of the beds before retracting and returning to its normal configuration.

Even while unconscious, Yuuki barely moved.

Weser and Seydlitz were also brought into the room under medical supervision, where they could continue recovering safely.

Soon, the room began filling with the others.

The room had originally been intended for church officials, but tonight it became an improvised resting area for nearly everyone who had fought to protect the village.

The maids settled into nearby beds alongside Irisviel.

Kaguya and the Takao sisters rested together nearby, while the newly rescued Weser and Seydlitz remained under observation as they continued recovering from their ordeal.

Before long, even the Bulins joined them.

Vestal, Mary, Pepper, and Yuu finally allowed themselves to rest as well.

After hours of fighting, rescuing, repairing, and treating the wounded, everyone had finally reached the point where exhaustion simply took over.

For the first time since the operation began, nobody was rushing anywhere.

Outside, Babushka took charge.

The elderly resistance leader organized the villagers and helped coordinate their return home now that the blockade had been lifted.

"Come along now," Babushka instructed the villagers. "The fighting is over. Let them rest."

Slowly, the area around the cathedral emptied as the villagers returned to their homes.

The streets that had been filled with civilians and soldiers only moments ago gradually became quiet.

Veronica had already begun repairing the damage.

Drones moved throughout the settlements, repairing damaged houses and restoring buildings that had been damaged during the battle. The Bulins assisted wherever they could, carrying supplies, replacing damaged components, and helping Veronica's repair drones restore the village.

One by one, the damaged homes were brought back to working order.

The villagers watched as their homes were restored, realizing that they could finally return to them without fear.

Meanwhile, the resistance members secured the park and surrounding areas, establishing a final defensive perimeter around the village.

The cathedral itself became quiet.

Only the Iron Legions and Iron Brutes remained active.

They stood at their posts around the cathedral, maintaining a silent defensive perimeter.

No enemies came.

No alarms sounded.

No explosions interrupted the night.

For once, there was nothing left to fight.

Inside the guest room, everyone slowly drifted into sleep.

Yuuki remained peacefully asleep on his bed, completely exhausted after everything he had endured.

Nearby, the maids slept alongside Irisviel. Kaguya and the Takao sisters rested together, while Weser and Seydlitz remained safely under medical observation.

Even the Bulins had finally settled down, with Yuu, Vestal, Mary, and Pepper resting nearby after their long hours of medical work.

The room that had once belonged to church officials had been transformed into a quiet sanctuary for the people who had fought to save the village.

Outside, the villagers continued returning to their homes.

Veronica's drones continued repairing the last traces of the battle.

The Iron Legions and Iron Brutes kept watch.

And across the island, the Signal Gap Inhibitor continued humming quietly.

The Rapture could no longer see them.

For the first time since the battle began—

the island was at peace.

================

"What do you mean the entire island vanished?"

Behemoth's voice echoed through the command chamber, disbelief evident in her tone.

Leviathan stood before the tactical display, staring at the empty section of the map where the island had once been.

"I don't know," she admitted. "The nuke detonated, but then... the entire island disappeared."

Behemoth narrowed her eyes.

"The entire island?"

"Gone."

Leviathan brought up the satellite data again.

"No thermal signature. No communications. No targeting signal. Nothing."

She paused before continuing.

"It is the same phenomenon as the island controlled by that spoiled prince. That island vanished from our surveillance as well."

Behemoth's expression darkened.

"Damn."

She stared at the empty map for several seconds before scoffing.

"Looks like magic. So, our nuclear attack has no confirmed detonation? But the bomb did detonate."

"It did," Leviathan replied. "But the missile didn't produce a nuclear blast. I guess that Yukihira really did remove main core."

"That bastard."

Leviathan glanced toward her.

"You seem well taken?"

Behemoth scoffed.

"Hmph. More like every single one of our plans has been foiled ever since that Yukihira entered the game."

She folded her arms, her irritation becoming increasingly apparent.

"First the Mother Whale, then our facilities. Now Ravenshaw's manor. We even lost the Arcane Shipgirl we captured."

Leviathan remained silent.

Behemoth continued.

"Even Ravenshaw lost to him."

She leaned closer to the tactical display, studying the empty ocean where the island should have been.

"And now we know he can turn into aliens."

A brief silence followed.

Behemoth's expression shifted from anger to contemplation.

"Makes me wonder whether keeping him alive would be more valuable than killing him."

Leviathan said nothing.

Instead, she checked the latest reports streaming across the tactical display.

"Looks like Ravenshaw ran away."

Behemoth's eyes narrowed.

"Good."

She turned away from the display.

"Have the troops capture him."

Leviathan raised an eyebrow.

"Capture him?"

"Send him to Petrova."

Behemoth's voice hardened.

"He lost our Project Regenesis samples when he blew the laboratory apart."

She began counting off the losses one by one.

"He even lost an Arcane Shipgirl. You know how hard it was to capture her!"

Another finger.

"He lost the Techadon Armor we painstakingly provided for he."

Her gaze returned to the tactical display.

"And he failed to eliminate Yuuki."

Behemoth's expression turned cold.

"I think he's already outlived his usefulness."

Leviathan gave a slow nod.

"Understood."

Behemoth stared at the empty patch of ocean.

"Let Yuuki enjoy his victory."

Her eyes narrowed.

"We'll find another way to reach him."

The command chamber fell silent.

On the tactical display, the island remained nothing more than an empty patch of ocean.

Whatever had hidden it from the Rapture...

they would eventually have to uncover it.

==============

"Why am I getting scolded...?"

Yuuki stood in the middle of the Void World, looking utterly bewildered.

He had only fallen asleep. That was all. After falling asleep in the cathedral, he had finally allowed himself some rest, only to find himself summoned to this familiar realm—and greeted by two women who looked as though they were preparing to put him on trial.

Hood stood before him with her arms crossed. Her elegant smile was beautiful, graceful, and just a little terrifying.

"Kind sir, do you know what you did wrong this time?"

Yuuki stared at her.

"...This time?"

Hood's smile widened.

"Oh, so you admit there have been previous occasions?"

"That's not what I—"

"Shikikan-sama," Amagi interrupted gently, her fan resting against her lips. "It seems that you really do need to be taught a lesson."

Yuuki slowly turned toward her.

"Amagi, not you too."

"I'm afraid so."

Hood stepped forward, her expression still pleasant.

"Now, let us begin with the matter of a certain girl you kissed."

Yuuki froze.

"...Ah."

"And then," Hood continued, "there is the matter of transferring your mana to her."

"Uhh... I had to. Otherwise, she'd die."

"That's another matter," Hood replied smoothly. "We can discuss your reasons for doing so separately. However, you could at least have told us about it."

Amagi nodded.

"Indeed. We understand that there are circumstances in which immediate action is necessary, Shikikan-sama. Nevertheless, learning about such things from someone else is hardly reassuring."

Yuuki rubbed the back of his neck.

"...Fair enough."

Hood's smile became even more suspicious.

"Now, shall we discuss your other little secret?"

Yuuki's hand stopped moving.

"Other secret?"

"You can transform into aliens, apparently."

Amagi's eyes narrowed slightly with curiosity.

"And you possess magical abilities as well. Shikikan-sama, just how many secrets have you been keeping from us?"

Yuuki looked from Hood to Amagi.

Then he sighed.

"...A lot, apparently."

"Then perhaps you would be kind enough to explain them," Amagi suggested.

Hood nodded.

"From the beginning, if you please."

Yuuki stared at the two women for another moment before letting out a resigned sigh.

"Fine. You want answers? I'll tell you everything."

He paused, then raised his left wrist.

"I recently put it back on. The Omnitrix."

Hood and Amagi glanced at the device.

Neither interrupted him.

So Yuuki began.

He explained how he had obtained the Omnitrix, the circumstances surrounding its creation, and the genius responsible for designing it: Azmuth, one of the most brilliant minds in the universe.

He described the Omnitrix's purpose as a device capable of allowing its user to transform into different alien species by accessing their genetic information. Rather than simply copying their appearances, it transformed the wearer's body into a functioning biological equivalent of the selected species, granting them the associated physical abilities and natural traits.

The device wasn't merely a weapon.

It was a repository of life.

The Omnitrix contained approximately 1,000,910 genetic samples, representing an astonishing variety of intelligent species from across the universe. Each sample provided access to a different form, with its own unique capabilities, strengths, and limitations.

Yuuki explained the transformation process, the device's safeguards, and the responsibilities that came with possessing such technology.

He told them about Primus, the world associated with the Omnitrix's genetic database, and the technological systems that made the device possible.

The more he explained, the quieter Hood and Amagi became.

What had initially sounded like an unusual personal ability turned out to be something far more extraordinary.

Yuuki could transform into alien life forms with capabilities that differed radically from his human body. Some offered extraordinary physical strength, others possessed incredible speed or durability, while certain species had abilities that bordered on the miraculous.

And he had access to more than a million genetic samples.

Hood eventually lowered her arms.

"Good heavens..."

For once, the elegant Royal Maid seemed genuinely at a loss for words.

Amagi, meanwhile, studied the Omnitrix with renewed interest.

"So this device allows you to assume the forms of entirely different species, each possessing its own natural abilities."

"That's the basic idea," Yuuki confirmed.

"And you have been carrying this device without telling us?"

"...When you put it that way, it sounds worse."

"It is worse," Hood replied sweetly.

Yuuki winced.

"Right. Sorry."

Amagi closed her eyes briefly before continuing.

"And the magical abilities?"

Yuuki sighed again.

"That's another part of the story."

He explained his magical heritage, describing the source of his connection to mana and how it differed from the technological capabilities provided by the Omnitrix. He clarified that his magic wasn't simply another function of the device; it was a separate aspect of himself.

He spoke about the nature of his mana, the ways he could channel it, and how it had allowed him to replenish Irisviel's depleted magical reserves when she was in danger.

That, of course, brought them back to the earlier issue.

Hood's eyes narrowed.

"And that was why you transferred your mana to Irisviel?"

"Yes. Her condition was serious. I needed to replenish her magic, and transferring my mana was the most practical way to do it."

"I understand," Hood said, her voice softer this time. "And I'm not suggesting you should have allowed her to die."

Amagi nodded.

"We know you wouldn't stand by while someone needed your help, Shikikan-sama."

Yuuki relaxed slightly.

"Thank you."

"However," Hood continued, "that doesn't mean you should keep us in the dark about matters that could affect your safety."

Yuuki's shoulders sank again.

"...There it is."

"Of course there it is," Hood replied. "Did you expect us to hear that you possess a device capable of transforming you into countless alien species, along with magical powers that you have barely discussed with us, and simply say nothing?"

"Honestly? A little."

Amagi gave him a disapproving look.

"Shikikan-sama."

"Right. Sorry."

For a while, neither woman spoke.

Hood eventually let out a quiet sigh and looked at the Omnitrix again.

"That's an extraordinary burden to carry, Yuuki."

Amagi nodded in agreement.

"To possess so much power, so many possibilities, and so many responsibilities... I can only imagine how exhausting it must be."

Yuuki looked down at the device on his wrist.

"Yeah. It can be."

His expression grew more serious.

"The Omnitrix gives me the ability to become something capable of solving problems that ordinary people can't. My magic gives me another way to protect people. And with GDI, I have the resources to intervene when the situation becomes dangerous."

He paused.

"But every time I use those abilities, there are consequences. People begin relying on me. Enemies start targeting me. And before long, I'm the one expected to solve everything."

Hood watched him quietly.

Amagi's expression softened.

Yuuki gave a tired smile.

"I know I can handle a lot. But that doesn't mean I want to spend the rest of my life being the person who has to handle everything."

He took a deep breath.

"That's why I've decided to hand the hero part to you girls."

Both women stared at him.

Hood was the first to speak.

"...You intend to entrust us being heroes?"

"Yes."

Yuuki nodded.

"I'm done being a hero."

The words hung in the air.

For once, neither Hood nor Amagi immediately responded.

Yuuki continued, his voice quieter.

"I've spent enough time rushing toward every crisis, taking responsibility for everything, and putting myself in danger because I thought I was the only one who could solve the problem. I don't want to keep living like that."

He looked at Hood, then Amagi.

"I'll still be the High Commander of GDI. I'll still protect the people under my care. And if there's a threat that requires my intervention, I won't simply turn away."

He raised his wrist slightly, the Omnitrix catching the light of the Void World.

"But I don't want this device or my magic to be another reason everyone expects me to save the world single-handedly. I want to share that responsibility with you girls. I trust you."

Hood's smile had disappeared, replaced by an expression of genuine concern.

"Dear sir..."

Amagi lowered her fan.

"Shikikan-sama, we understand why you would want to share your burden. But please don't mistake exhaustion for a need to abandon everything you have done."

Yuuki shook his head.

"I'm not abandoning GDI. I'm not abandoning you. I'm simply done trying to be everyone's hero."

He gave them a weary but sincere smile.

"I want to live, too. I want to spend time with the people I care about without feeling that I should be somewhere else, saving someone or fixing another disaster."

Hood looked at him for a long moment.

Then she stepped forward and gently placed a hand over his.

"You foolish, wonderful man."

Yuuki blinked.

"...Is that supposed to be a compliment?"

"Perhaps."

She smiled, though her eyes remained serious.

"We are grateful that you trust us enough to share something so important. And we will listen to your wishes. But you must promise us something in return."

"What?"

"Don't carry everything alone until you reach the point where you feel you must give away a part of yourself just to find peace."

Amagi stepped beside them.

"Shikikan-sama, you have always given others the chance to grow stronger, to protect one another, and to choose their own paths. You deserve that same opportunity."

Yuuki fell silent.

For a moment, the weight of everything he had been carrying seemed to settle over him again.

Then he smiled faintly.

"...I'll try."

Hood squeezed his hand.

"Good. We'll hold you to that promise."

Amagi's eyes curved into a gentle smile.

"And next time you have an important secret to reveal, perhaps you could tell us before we have to interrogate you?"

Yuuki groaned.

"Are you two ever going to let me live that down?"

"Not anytime soon," Hood answered cheerfully.

Amagi nodded.

"Consider it a lesson, Shikikan-sama."

Yuuki looked up at the empty expanse of the Void World and sighed.

"...I knew I should have stayed asleep."

Hood laughed softly, while Amagi hid her smile behind her fan.

For all their scolding, neither woman looked at him with fear or resentment. They saw the man beneath the extraordinary powers—the man who had spent so long protecting others that he had nearly forgotten he was allowed to rest.

And perhaps that was precisely why they refused to let him bear the burden alone.

"Handsome!"

Yuuki barely had time to turn around before a familiar figure came flying toward him.

"Whoa—!"

THUMP!

Hornet landed squarely on his back, wrapping her arms around his shoulders with a delighted grin.

"Hehe! Missed ya!"

Yuuki staggered half a step before regaining his balance. Hornet laughed and hopped off his back, landing lightly on her feet.

"You always greet me this way," he sighed.

"Like I said, miss ya!" Hornet replied cheerfully, completely unapologetic.

Yuuki shook his head with an amused smile.

"Some things never change."

His gaze then shifted toward the broomstick Hornet had brought along.

"I see you've already mastered flying on those broomsticks?"

"Yup! We've been having a blast!" Hornet beamed. "And now we're even letting the little ones fly with us. It's like magic! You should see their faces when they get off the ground!"

"I'm sure Mecklenburg will be jealous when she hears about this."

He paused, reconsidering his words.

"Actually, maybe not. These aren't real magical broomsticks, after all. Our engineers simply built a hovering system into them. Apparently, some of them grew up reading the Harry Potter books and decided they wanted to make their own flying broomsticks."

"Harry Potter?" Hood repeated, tilting her head.

Yuuki turned toward her.

"Wait. The Royal Union doesn't have Harry Potter in this world?"

Hood exchanged a glance with Amagi.

"I cannot say that I have ever heard of it, dear sir."

"Neither have I," Amagi added, her eyes narrowing with curiosity. "Is it a book about magic?"

"Among other things." Yuuki scratched his cheek. "Huh. I thought it was popular everywhere."

Hornet leaned forward, looking between them.

"Handsome, what the heck is Harry Potter? Some kind of wizard?"

"That's actually a pretty good description."

Yuuki raised his hand, and a faint shimmer of light appeared in the air. A moment later, two complete sets of books materialized before him.

The first consisted of seven thick novels, each bearing the title of a different installment in the Harry Potter series. Their colorful covers depicted a young wizard's journey through a world of magic, mystery, and danger.

"These are the seven Harry Potter novels," Yuuki explained. "They're from a famous author in my original world, J. K. Rowling. The story follows a boy who discovers that he's a wizard and eventually attends a school for magic."

Hood's eyes immediately settled on the books.

"Magic, you say?"

Before Yuuki could answer, she had already picked up the first volume.

"Let us see what sort of tale this author has written."

She opened the book and began reading.

At first, her expression was merely curious. Then, as she progressed through the opening pages, her eyes gradually widened.

The world described within was unlike anything she had encountered in her own reading. A hidden magical society existed alongside the ordinary human world, complete with its own customs, creatures, institutions, and history. There was something enchanting about the idea of an entire world of magic concealed in plain sight.

And this was only the beginning.

Hood turned a page.

Then another.

Yuuki watched her become increasingly absorbed in the story.

"...Well, that was fast."

Amagi picked up another copy and examined its cover before opening it herself.

"My, this is certainly intriguing."

Her ears twitched slightly as she read the first few paragraphs.

Yuuki smiled.

"Just wait until you get further into the series. The story gets much bigger than it first appears."

"Handsome!"

Hornet's voice abruptly interrupted him.

Yuuki turned.

"What is it?"

"Do you have anything that doesn't involve reading?"

He stared at her.

"...Hornet, you haven't even opened the book."

"I looked at the pages! There are so many words!" She pointed accusingly at the thick novel in Hood's hands. "How am I supposed to have fun with that?"

"By reading it?"

"Urrgghh! That's exactly what I don't want to do!"

Yuuki chuckled.

"Fine, fine. I have movie adaptations of the books, too. You can watch those instead."

Hornet's expression brightened instantly.

"Now you're talking!"

"There's just one problem."

Her smile froze.

"What problem?"

"You'll have to wait until you're revived before you can watch them."

"..."

Hornet stared at him in disbelief.

Then she grabbed his arm and shook it.

"Handsome! That's cruel! You can't tell me there's a movie and then tell me I can't watch it!"

"Hey, I'm not the one who decided you needed to be revived first!"

"Then hurry up and revive me!"

"I am working on it!"

"Work faster!"

Yuuki could only sigh as Hornet continued to complain.

Meanwhile, Hood had reached the end of the first chapter. She carefully closed the book, holding it against her chest as though she had just discovered a precious treasure.

"My, what a delightful story."

She looked up at Yuuki with an eager smile.

"Kind sir, would you kindly allow me to borrow these books?"

Yuuki blinked.

"You want to borrow the entire set?"

"If you would permit me to do so, yes."

Hood glanced at the remaining volumes, and her smile grew.

"I should very much like to discover what happens next."

Amagi, who had already begun reading the first book herself, nodded.

"Indeed. Hood and I shall read the entire series."

Yuuki looked at the two women.

Then he looked at Hornet, who was still glaring at the novels as though they had personally offended her.

"...Quite a contrast."

"What's that supposed to mean?" Hornet demanded.

"Nothing."

"Handsome!"

"Anyway!"

Yuuki quickly turned his attention to the second set of books before Hornet could begin another round of complaints.

"Oh, you can read these as well."

He presented the second collection to Hood and Amagi.

Unlike the Harry Potter novels, these books followed an alternate version of the story, featuring a female version of one of its central characters.

Yuuki tapped the cover thoughtfully.

"In the original novels, this character is Harry Potter's rival. But in this version, another fan author takes a different approach by making one of the character a female and exploring how that changes the story. Well, it kind of blew up the internet back then and someone decided to make seven books based on that."

Hood examined the new set with growing interest.

"An alternate interpretation of the original tale?"

"More or less. The characters and events take some interesting turns, so I'd recommend reading the original series first. That way, you'll have a better understanding of what's been changed."

Amagi's eyes curved into a smile.

"How fascinating. Even a familiar story can become something entirely different when viewed from another perspective."

"Exactly."

Yuuki nodded.

"Anyway, I'll leave the two sets with you. Just don't fight over them."

Hood placed a hand over her chest with an innocent smile.

"Kind sir, I would never dream of doing such a thing."

Amagi gently covered her mouth with her fan.

"Of course not. We are perfectly capable of sharing."

Yuuki narrowed his eyes.

"Why do I feel like I'm going to regret this?"

"Perhaps you should have more faith in us," Hood replied.

"Somehow, that doesn't reassure me."

The two women had already returned their attention to the books.

Hood began reading the next chapter, while Amagi continued studying the opening pages. Both appeared completely absorbed in their newfound literary treasures.

Yuuki could practically see the curiosity burning in their eyes.

He had just introduced two avid readers to an entire series of magical adventures—and, judging by their expressions, they wouldn't be satisfied until they had reached the final page.

"Oh, we certainly have something to look forward to in this world," Hood murmured.

"Indeed," Amagi agreed. "I wonder what other stories we might discover."

Yuuki smiled.

"There's plenty more where those came from."

"Excellent."

Neither woman looked up.

Hornet, meanwhile, had reached the end of her patience.

"Urrgghh... Handsome!"

Yuuki turned toward her.

"What now?"

"Hornet doesn't like reading!"

She grabbed his arm again and shook it for emphasis.

"Can we do something fun instead? Please? Anything! Just don't make me sit around reading a bunch of books!"

Yuuki laughed helplessly.

"Alright, alright. I'll find something for you to do."

"Promise?"

"Promise."

Hornet immediately brightened.

"Yay! That's my handsome!"

She threw her arms around him in another enthusiastic hug.

Yuuki sighed, patting her on the back while glancing at Hood and Amagi.

The two women were already several pages deeper into their books.

He had somehow managed to entertain one shipgirl and introduce two others to a new literary obsession within the span of a few minutes.

Perhaps giving Hood and Amagi those books had been a mistake.

Then again, judging by their happy expressions, it was probably one of the better mistakes he had made lately.

Since Hornet had no interest whatsoever in reading, Yuuki decided to indulge her in something she actually enjoyed.

"Alright, how about we go flying together?"

Hornet's eyes immediately lit up.

"Really?!"

"Really. Now, grab your broomstick."

"Hehe! You're the best, handsome!"

She hurriedly picked up her broomstick, practically bouncing with excitement. Yuuki climbed onto his own hovering broomstick, then reached out to help her settle in beside him.

With a soft hum from the hovering mechanism, the two rose into the air.

"Woooo! Here we go!"

Hornet laughed as they soared above the grounds, the breeze sweeping through her hair. Yuuki guided their broomstick through a gentle turn, then picked up speed as they flew past the surrounding gardens.

Hornet was having the time of her life.

She pointed out everything that caught her attention, from the little ones practicing their flying to the other shipgirls enjoying their newfound pastime. Every so often, she leaned against Yuuki's shoulder, grinning as though she couldn't believe she was finally getting to share this experience with him.

"Hey, handsome! Let's go faster!"

"Don't get too carried away. We don't want to crash into anyone."

"Aw, you're no fun!"

Despite her complaint, Hornet wrapped her arms around him and happily enjoyed the flight.

They spent quite some time flying together, weaving through the open sky before eventually returning to the ground.

The moment their feet touched the ground, Hornet turned toward him with a mischievous grin.

"Hey, handsome?"

"Hmm?"

"Thanks for spending time with me!"

Before Yuuki could respond, Hornet threw herself into his arms.

Then she began peppering his face with kisses.

"Mwah! Mwah! Mwah!"

"Whoa! Hornet, hold on!"

"Hehehe! Missed ya!"

"You just spent the last half hour flying with me!"

"So? I still missed ya!"

Yuuki barely managed to protect himself from another barrage of kisses before making a strategic retreat.

"Alright, alright! I've got somewhere to be!"

"Eh?! Hey! Don't run away, handsome!"

Hornet chased after him, laughing all the while.

Yuuki quickened his pace.

He had faced battlefield crises, dangerous enemies, and more than his fair share of impossible situations. Yet somehow, escaping an affectionate shipgirl was proving to be its own unique challenge.

Fortunately, he managed to slip around a corner before Hornet could catch him again.

He leaned against the wall and let out a breath of relief.

"...Good grief."

A familiar voice immediately called out to him.

"Tono!"

Yuuki barely had time to turn around.

"Whoa—!"

A certain fox-eared shipgirl came rushing toward him at full speed.

Fortunately, his reflexes were quick enough. He stepped forward and caught Yamashiro before she could crash into him, absorbing the impact as she wrapped her arms around his waist.

"Ehehehe!"

Yamashiro looked up at him with a delighted smile, her ears twitching happily.

"Tono! I found you!"

Yuuki looked down at the girl clinging to him.

"Yamashiro, you really need to stop greeting me like you're trying to tackle me."

"But I wanted to see you!"

"I can see that."

He sighed, though the smile on his face made it clear he wasn't truly upset.

A few steps behind Yamashiro, Fusou approached at a much more measured pace.

"Honestly, Yamashiro... You really should be more careful."

She shook her head with the familiar patience of an older sister who had long since accepted that her younger sibling was unlikely to change.

Then she turned toward Yuuki.

"Welcome back, Shikikan-sama."

"Hey, Fusou."

She smiled warmly before leaning forward and giving him a gentle kiss.

"It's good to see you."

Yuuki returned her smile.

"It's good to see you two as well."

Yamashiro, who had been watching them, immediately tightened her embrace.

"Tono! What about me?"

Yuuki chuckled.

"You already tackled me."

"That doesn't count!"

"Doesn't it?"

"No!"

Fusou covered her mouth with one hand, quietly laughing at her younger sister's antics.

In the end, Yuuki gave Yamashiro a gentle kiss on the forehead.

"There. Happy?"

Yamashiro's ears perked up.

"Ehehe! Very happy!"

Fusou smiled at the sight.

"My, you've certainly spoiled her."

"I'm beginning to think that's my specialty."

"Then I suppose you shouldn't complain when she comes looking for you."

"...Fair point."

With that settled, Yuuki allowed himself to be escorted away by the two sisters.

For once, there were no urgent meetings, no emergencies demanding his attention, and no difficult decisions waiting to be made. He could simply spend some time with them.

They found a comfortable place to sit in the garden, where the sunlight filtered through the leaves and a gentle breeze carried the scent of flowers.

Yamashiro promptly settled beside him, leaning against his arm. Fusou took the other side, resting her head against his shoulder.

Yuuki looked from one sister to the other.

"Comfortable?"

"Very!" Yamashiro answered immediately.

"Indeed," Fusou murmured. "It's rather peaceful here."

Yuuki smiled and began gently rubbing their ears.

Yamashiro practically melted against him.

"Ahhh... Tono..."

Her eyes drifted shut, and her tail swayed lazily behind her. Whatever remaining energy she had seemed to disappear the moment Yuuki began scratching behind her ears.

Fusou, meanwhile, leaned more comfortably against his shoulder, clearly enjoying the gentle attention as well.

"Yuuki, you're quite good at this," she remarked.

"Good at what? Rubbing ears?"

"Making people feel at ease."

He paused.

Then he smiled faintly.

"That's a much nicer way of putting it."

Fusou looked up at him with a tender expression.

"You spend so much of your time looking after everyone else. It's nice to see you taking a moment to relax with us."

Yamashiro nodded enthusiastically, despite looking as though she might fall asleep at any moment.

"Mhm! Tono should play with us more often!"

"I'll keep that in mind."

"You promise?"

Yuuki glanced at her.

"Why does everyone keep making me promise things today?"

"Because you always get busy!" Yamashiro replied.

Fusou gave him a knowing smile.

"She has a point."

Yuuki looked up at the sky.

"...I'm being surrounded by people who know me too well."

Both sisters laughed.

After a while, Yamashiro's energy returned in full force.

She suddenly sat upright, her ears standing tall.

"Tono! Let's play!"

Yuuki blinked.

"Play what?"

"Tag!"

Fusou sighed softly.

"Yamashiro, you were practically asleep a moment ago."

"But I'm not sleepy anymore!"

"That was fast," Yuuki remarked.

"Come on, Tono! You have to catch me!"

Before he could object, Yamashiro sprang to her feet and dashed across the garden.

She turned around, grinning mischievously.

"Come and get me!"

Yuuki stared after her.

Then he slowly rose from his seat.

"Alright. But don't complain when I catch you."

"Ehehe! You have to catch me first!"

And so began an unexpectedly lively game of tag.

Yamashiro darted between the flowerbeds, her tail swishing behind her as she dodged around trees and garden ornaments. Yuuki followed at a leisurely pace, deliberately giving her plenty of room to run.

Every time he came close, she squealed and changed direction.

"Tono! You're too fast!"

"Didn't you tell me to catch you?"

"Not that fast!"

Yuuki laughed.

"Make up your mind!"

Fusou watched from their original resting place, smiling as her younger sister ran around the garden with Yuuki.

Occasionally, Yamashiro would hide behind a tree or crouch behind a flowerbed, only to have Yuuki find her almost immediately.

"How did you find me?!"

"Your ears were sticking out."

"Eh?!"

Yamashiro quickly grabbed her ears, looking utterly betrayed by them.

Fusou couldn't help laughing.

Eventually, Yuuki caught up with Yamashiro and gently tapped her shoulder.

"Tag. You're it."

"EHHH?!"

Yamashiro gasped dramatically.

"Tono cheated!"

"How did I cheat?"

"Because you're too good at finding me!"

"That's not cheating. That's just being observant."

"It's unfair!"

Yuuki laughed and ruffled her hair.

"Alright, alright. One more round?"

Yamashiro's indignation vanished instantly.

"YES!"

Fusou watched the two of them resume their game, shaking her head fondly.

"My goodness. They're both children sometimes."

Nevertheless, her smile never faded.

Eventually, after several rounds of running around the garden, Yamashiro finally ran out of energy. She returned to Yuuki, panting lightly, and leaned against him.

"Tono... I'm tired..."

Yuuki chuckled.

"Then perhaps it's time for a break."

"Mhm..."

He gently patted her head before guiding her back toward Fusou.

And that was when he noticed the ingredients laid out on a nearby table.

A variety of fresh fruits had been prepared, including strawberries, apples, grapes, and several tropical fruits.

Fusou glanced toward them.

"I was planning to make a fruit salad. Would you care to help me, Shikikan-sama?"

"Of course."

Yamashiro immediately raised her hand.

"I'll help too!"

Fusou gave her a gentle look.

"You may help, but please don't eat all the fruit before we've finished."

Yamashiro froze.

"...I wouldn't do that."

Yuuki looked at the half-eaten strawberry she was already holding.

"Really?"

"Ehehe..."

Fusou sighed.

"Yamashiro."

"I'm sorry!"

Despite her apology, her tail continued wagging hopefully.

Yuuki laughed and joined Fusou at the table. Together, they washed and cut the fruit, while Yamashiro was entrusted with arranging the prepared pieces in a large bowl.

For a while, the three worked side by side.

Fusou handled the more delicate tasks with practiced care, Yuuki helped prepare the ingredients, and Yamashiro took her responsibility very seriously—at least whenever she wasn't sneaking a grape into her mouth.

"Yamashiro."

"...Yes?"

"That's the third grape."

"It's quality control!"

Yuuki burst out laughing.

"Quality control?"

"Mhm! I need to make sure they're sweet enough for Tono!"

Fusou shook her head, smiling.

"What a convenient excuse."

When the fruit salad was finally ready, Fusou mixed everything together and added the finishing touches. The colorful fruits glistened under the sunlight, making the dish look every bit as refreshing as it smelled.

"There," she said. "All finished."

Yamashiro clasped her hands together.

"It looks delicious!"

"Then let's share it," Fusou suggested.

The three settled down together and enjoyed the fruit salad in the peaceful garden.

Yamashiro happily fed Yuuki a piece of fruit, while Fusou occasionally offered him another, her expression warm and affectionate.

Yuuki, in turn, made sure both sisters had their fair share.

For once, he wasn't the GDI High Commander, a hero, or the man expected to solve every problem placed before him.

He was simply Yuuki, spending a quiet afternoon with two women who cherished him.

And as Yamashiro leaned against his side and Fusou rested her head on his other shoulder, he found himself thinking that perhaps these were the moments he had been missing.

No battles. No emergencies. No grand responsibilities.

Just laughter, warm company, and a bowl of freshly prepared fruit salad.

For the time being, that was more than enough.

=============

After spending a peaceful night with Fusou and Yamashiro, Yuuki eventually bid the two sisters farewell and continued on his way.

He had barely made it past the garden when a familiar voice called out to him.

"Yuuki-chan!"

Yuuki stopped.

"...Oh, boy."

He turned just in time to see Junyou hurrying toward him, with Hiyou following close behind.

There went his hopes of enjoying a quiet walk.

"Junyou, Hiyou. What are you two up to?"

"Hehe! Nothing much!" Junyou replied, slipping up beside him with a bright smile.

Hiyou, on the other hand, looked him over with an amused expression before letting out a chuckle.

"Hehe... Not bad, Shiki. You've certainly managed to bring quite a few people together."

Yuuki raised an eyebrow.

"Is that so?"

"Of course!" Hiyou grinned. "Shoukaku, Zuikaku, Hiryuu, and Souryuu. And you've even got Mamiya and Irako working with everyone, not to mention Kashima and Katori."

She shook her head, looking genuinely impressed.

"That's quite an achievement, you know? I never thought we'd see so many people getting along like this."

Yuuki smiled.

"Well, I can't take all the credit. Everyone has been doing their part. Mamiya and Irako have been keeping everyone well fed, while Kashima and Katori have been helping with training and instruction. And the others have been doing their best to support everyone in their own ways."

"Still, you helped make it happen," Hiyou insisted.

She stepped closer and planted a kiss on his cheek.

"Thanks, Shiki."

Yuuki blinked at the sudden affection.

"Ah... You're welcome?"

Beside him, Junyou's smile slowly disappeared.

Her cheeks puffed up.

"...Hmph!"

Yuuki glanced at her.

"Junyou?"

She turned her face away, folding her arms.

"Nothing!"

Hiyou noticed her younger sister's expression and immediately broke into a mischievous grin.

"Oh? What's wrong, Junyou? Don't tell me you're jealous."

"I'm not jealous!"

"Really?"

"Really!"

Hiyou leaned closer to Yuuki, deliberately smiling as she gave his cheek another affectionate pat.

"My, my. You're awfully cute when you're jealous."

"Big sister!"

Junyou's cheeks turned even redder.

Yuuki could already sense trouble brewing.

"Now, now. There's no need to—"

He didn't get to finish.

Junyou suddenly spun around, grabbed his arm, and pulled him toward her.

"If Big Sister can do it, then so can I!"

"Wait, Junyou—"

Mwah!

She kissed his cheek.

Then the other one.

Mwah! Mwah!

"Junyou! Hold on!"

"Nope!"

She wrapped her arms around him and began peppering his face with kisses, determined not to lose to her older sister.

"Yuuki-chan! Yuuki-chan! Yuuki-chan!"

Hiyou burst into laughter.

"Oh, my! Look at you go, Junyou!"

"Don't laugh, Big Sister! You're the one who started it!"

"Did I? I only gave him one kiss."

"Then I'll give him more!"

Yuuki stared helplessly at the two sisters.

One was laughing at his predicament, while the other was determined to cover his face in kisses.

"...I really should have stayed with Fusou and Yamashiro."

"Hmm? Did you say something, Yuuki-chan?"

Junyou tilted her head innocently, though her arms remained firmly wrapped around him.

"Nothing."

"Good!"

She gave him one final kiss on the cheek before beaming at him with satisfaction.

"There! Now we're even!"

Hiyou crossed her arms, looking thoroughly entertained.

"Even? I don't remember us keeping score."

"Well, we are now!"

Yuuki let out a long sigh.

"I'm surrounded by troublemakers."

Both sisters smiled at him.

"Of course!" Hiyou replied cheerfully.

"Ehehe!" Junyou added, hugging his arm.

Yuuki looked at their happy expressions and couldn't help smiling despite himself.

So much for a quiet afternoon.

Still, with Junyou happily clinging to one arm and Hiyou walking beside him with a teasing smile, he supposed he could tolerate a little trouble.

At least until the next shipgirl found him.

After spending some time with Hiyou and Junyou, Yuuki finally managed to escape the two sisters' affectionate teasing and continue his walk.

Or, at least, he thought he had.

The moment he passed through a quiet corridor, a pair of arms suddenly wrapped around him from behind.

"Got you."

Yuuki stopped.

"...Konigsberg?"

"Hehe."

Konigsberg rested her cheek against his back, showing absolutely no intention of letting go.

"Where are you going, Yuuki?"

"Nowhere in particular. I was just taking a walk."

"Wonderful. Then you can take a walk with me."

Yuuki glanced over his shoulder at her.

"Is that an invitation or an order?"

"Whichever works."

He couldn't help laughing.

"You're rather direct today."

"Am I?"

Konigsberg tilted her head, looking entirely unbothered.

Before Yuuki could respond, three more familiar figures appeared.

"Ah, there you are," Köln remarked, approaching with her usual composed expression.

Karlsruhe followed close behind, while Leipzig peeked out from beside her sisters.

"W-We were looking for you, Herr Kommandant..."

Yuuki looked at the four of them, then down at Konigsberg, who was still clinging to him.

"Let me guess. You all planned this?"

"Not exactly," Köln answered.

"Though we did discuss coming to see you," Karlsruhe added with a knowing smile.

Leipzig nodded shyly.

"We wanted to spend some time with you, too..."

Konigsberg finally released Yuuki, though she remained close enough to take his arm.

"Besides, we have something important to tell you."

Yuuki raised an eyebrow.

"Something important?"

The four sisters exchanged glances.

Then, to his surprise, Konigsberg stepped forward first.

"I love you, Yuuki."

He blinked.

"...Pardon?"

"Yes, Commander, I said I love you."

She repeated it without the slightest hesitation, meeting his eyes directly.

"I've wanted to tell you for a while. You've done so much for us, and I don't want to keep pretending my feelings are anything else."

Yuuki stared at her.

He had expected many things from his day.

Another hug? Certainly.

More teasing? Practically guaranteed.

An unexpected confession delivered with the same casual confidence as asking him to take a walk?

That had not been on his list.

Karlsruhe chuckled at his expression.

"Honestly, Herr Kommandant, you look more surprised by this than you do when someone throws themselves at you."

"That's because people usually give me some warning!"

"Would that have helped?" Köln asked.

"...Probably not."

Leipzig covered her mouth, giggling softly.

Konigsberg, meanwhile, seemed perfectly satisfied with having spoken her mind.

"Now it's your turn."

"My turn?"

"To answer me, of course."

Yuuki rubbed his forehead.

"You really don't give a person time to recover, do you?"

"Why should I? I already know what I want."

Her straightforwardness left him momentarily speechless.

Then he smiled.

"Alright. I accept your feelings, Konigsberg."

For the first time, her confident expression faltered.

"...Really?"

"Really. I care about you, too."

Her eyes widened before a delighted smile spread across her face.

"Hehe. Good."

She immediately slipped her arm through his again.

"Then I'm staying with you."

Yuuki laughed.

"I had a feeling you'd say that."

Karlsruhe stepped forward next, her smile warm and confident.

"Well, since Konigsberg has already said everything so plainly, I suppose there's no point in being coy."

She took Yuuki's free hand.

"I asked my sister about it, and she said that this feeling is called "love." It feels a bit painful, but it also makes me very happy. I love you, too. And I'm not going to hide it just because my sisters are here."

Yuuki smiled at her.

"Karlsruhe, I accept your feelings as well."

"Wonderful. I feel happy whenever I think about you, but I miss you whenever I can't see you. Overall, I'm still glad that I fell in love with you!"

She leaned forward and kissed his cheek.

Leipzig's face immediately turned red.

"E-Everyone is being so direct..."

Köln gave her a gentle nudge.

"You don't have to follow our example if you're uncomfortable, Leipzig."

"I know\... but..."

Leipzig took a deep breath, then looked up at Yuuki.

" I've got something very important to tell Commander... I love you, Herr Kommandant. You've always made me feel safe, and you've given us a place where we can be happy without being afraid of what might happen next."

Her hands tightened together.

"I want to stay by your side, if you'll let me."

Yuuki's expression softened.

"Of course, Leipzig. I accept your feelings."

She stared at him for a moment before her face lit up.

"R-Really?"

He nodded.

"Really."

"I'm so glad that you returned my feelings, Commander. I'll do my best... not to faint in front of you anymore."

Leipzig smiled so brightly that Yuuki felt his heart soften in response.

Finally, Köln stepped forward.

Unlike her sisters, she took her time, studying him with her usual calm gaze.

"J-jeez... Am I really the only one who can rein you in, Commander? Just let me handle all your affairs, private or public. Wh-what? I'm not trying to make you my property! I won't pretend that my feelings appeared overnight. Watching you, seeing how you treat us, and knowing that you are willing to take risks for the people under your protection... It made me realize that I wanted to be closer to you."

She paused.

"I love you as well. And I would like to stand beside you, not merely as someone under your care, but as someone you can rely on, too. With this... I can get much closer to Commander! A-ahem... it's nothing! Thank you, Commander, I won't let you down."

Yuuki returned her gaze.

"Köln, I'd be happy to have you by my side."

Her composed expression softened into a smile.

"Then I shall take you at your word."

With that, she leaned forward and kissed his cheek.

Yuuki stood there for a moment, surrounded by four smiling women.

He slowly looked from Konigsberg to Köln, then Karlsruhe and Leipzig.

"...You know, I really wasn't expecting all four of you to confess your feelings in one go."

Konigsberg shrugged.

"We're sisters. We talk."

"Apparently, you also coordinate your attacks."

"Attacks?" Karlsruhe repeated innocently.

Yuuki gestured toward the four of them.

"This! The simultaneous confessions! The lack of warning! The complete disregard for my poor heart!"

Köln adjusted her glasses.

"Your heart appears to be functioning normally."

"That's not the point!"

Leipzig giggled, while Konigsberg simply hugged his arm again.

"Hehe. You'll get used to it, Yuuki."

He could only sigh.

Somehow, he suspected she was right.

But as he looked at the four sisters, their happiness was impossible to miss. They had chosen to be honest with him, and he wasn't going to make them regret it.

So he smiled and spent the next little while with them, listening to their stories and answering their questions.

Before long, their conversation turned toward the reason they had wanted to see him in the first place.

"There's something else we wanted to thank you for," Köln said.

Yuuki tilted his head.

"What is it?"

"Friedrich der Große. Mecklenburg. Hindenburg. Seydlitz. Weser."

Karlsruhe nodded.

"You helped bring them back to us. And you rescued our mothership, too."

The sisters' expressions grew more serious.

For all their teasing, the gratitude they felt was genuine.

"Thank you," Leipzig said softly. "For giving everyone another chance."

Yuuki fell quiet for a moment.

Then he smiled.

"You don't have to thank me for that. They deserved to come home."

"Perhaps," Köln replied. "But you were the one who made it possible."

Konigsberg leaned against his shoulder.

"Besides, we wanted you to know how much it means to us."

Yuuki looked at them, his expression warm.

"Then I'm glad I could help."

He spent a little more time with the four sisters before eventually moving on, leaving them in considerably better spirits than when they had first approached him.

Unfortunately, his peaceful walk still wasn't destined to remain peaceful for long.

The moment he entered another common area, he noticed something strange.

Several Eagle Union shipgirls were gathered nearby.

They appeared to be chatting among themselves, but their eyes kept drifting toward him.

Whenever Yuuki glanced in their direction, some would quickly look away. Others would suddenly become fascinated by whatever happened to be in their hands.

He slowed his pace.

"...What's going on over there?"

He had barely finished speaking when three women approached him with considerably less hesitation than the others.

Nevada came first, wearing a confident smile. Oklahoma followed close behind, looking equally determined, while Ranger approached with a more composed expression.

Yuuki looked at the trio.

"Hello, ladies. Is something wrong?"

"Wrong?" Nevada repeated with a laugh. "Nope! Everything's just fine, young'un."

Oklahoma nodded eagerly.

"Actually, we wanted to talk to you!"

Ranger smiled.

"And to thank you for what you've done for us."

Yuuki's expression softened.

"Arizona and Pennsylvania?"

"That's right," Nevada answered.

Her usual confidence remained, but there was unmistakable sincerity in her eyes.

"When we learned that Arizona and Pennsylvania were safe, it felt like a weight had finally been lifted from our shoulders. We'd been worried about them for so long."

Oklahoma nodded.

"We're grateful that you brought them back. You gave us the chance to see our friends again."

Ranger clasped her hands together.

"And you gave them the opportunity to have a future. That's not something we'll ever forget."

Yuuki smiled.

"I'm glad they're safe. That's what matters."

Nevada exchanged a glance with the other two women.

Then she grinned.

"Good. In that case, there's one more thing we wanted to tell you."

Yuuki immediately grew suspicious.

"Why do I feel like I've heard that line before today?"

Oklahoma giggled.

"Because we've been watching you!"

"...You've been what?"

"Watching you, young'un." Nevada repeated, entirely unapologetic. "You've been spending time with everyone today. And, well, we decided we shouldn't keep putting this off."

Ranger took a small step forward.

"Commander, I have feelings for you. I wanted to tell you properly, rather than continue hiding them."

Yuuki stared at her.

Then Oklahoma spoke up.

"Ah, Commander. No need to worry about me. I'll be happy as long as I can keep looking at you like this\~ but... Ehee... I kind of love you."

Nevada crossed her arms, looking pleased.

"And I'm not going to let these two beat me to it. The idea behind priority defenses? That is to protect our most important areas... What, you want to know how important they are? W-well, if it's you...."

Yuuki's mouth opened.

Then closed.

He looked at Ranger, then Oklahoma, then Nevada.

"...Is everyone confessing to me today?"

Nevada laughed.

"Seems that way!"

Oklahoma clasped her hands behind her back, looking hopeful.

"Is that a problem?"

"No! No, of course not." Yuuki hurriedly shook his head. "I'm just surprised. That's all."

Ranger smiled gently.

"You don't have to answer immediately if you need time to think."

Yuuki appreciated her consideration, but he wasn't about to dismiss their courage.

He looked at the three women and answered honestly.

"I accept your feelings. I care about you, too. All of you."

For a brief moment, all three seemed stunned.

Then Oklahoma's face lit up.

"Really?!"

"Really."

She immediately moved closer and hugged him.

"Thank you, Commander!"

Nevada chuckled before leaning in to kiss his cheek.

"Hehe. Glad we took the initiative."

Ranger's smile softened, and she gave him a gentle kiss on the other cheek.

"Thank you for being honest with us."

Yuuki returned their smiles, though his expression soon became one of dawning realization.

The Konigsberg sisters.

Now three Eagle Union shipgirls.

And he hadn't even finished his walk.

He glanced toward the other Eagle Union women, several of whom were still watching him with poorly concealed interest.

"...Oh, no."

Nevada followed his gaze and burst out laughing.

"What? Don't tell me you're getting nervous, young'un."

"I'm beginning to think I should have stayed in bed."

"Oh you... what are you doing, getting so bold at a time like this? Have you never considered the time and place for such an important thing?"

Oklahoma giggled.

"But then we wouldn't have gotten to see you!"

Ranger smiled serenely.

"And that would have been a shame."

Yuuki looked at the three women surrounding him and let out a long, defeated sigh.

He had spent so much time worrying about wars, rescues, and the future of GDI that he had completely underestimated a far more immediate threat.

The affection of the women he had helped save.

And judging by the glances still coming from the other Eagle Union shipgirls, this particular battle was nowhere near over.

==========

After his unexpected encounters with the Konigsberg sisters and the three Eagle Union shipgirls, Yuuki finally managed to continue his walk.

By this point, he had begun to suspect that the entire fleet had coordinated an operation to ambush him with affection.

Unfortunately, he wasn't entirely wrong.

"Commander!"

Yuuki turned toward the cheerful voice and found Hermes waiting for him, a deck of cards in her hands and a triumphant grin on her face.

"Ah, Hermes. What are you up to?"

"Hehehe! I've been waiting for you. How about a duel?"

"A card duel?"

"Of course! What else would I challenge you to?"

Yuuki glanced at the cards, then back at her expectant expression.

"Should I be worried?"

"Absolutely! Prepare yourself, Commander! Today, I'll prove that I'm the greatest card duelist in the world!"

Hermes struck a dramatic pose.

Yuuki chuckled.

"Alright, alright. I'll play."

They found a nearby table and sat down. Hermes shuffled the deck with exaggerated flair, occasionally making theatrical comments about her supposedly unbeatable strategy.

Yuuki patiently listened as she explained the rules and demonstrated her favorite combinations.

Then the game began.

Hermes was enthusiastic, confident, and completely invested in winning. Every successful move earned a triumphant grin, while every unexpected setback prompted an exaggerated gasp.

Yuuki, meanwhile, quietly adjusted his strategy.

Whenever he saw an opportunity to secure victory, he deliberately chose another move, allowing Hermes to gain the upper hand without making the outcome too obvious.

Finally, Hermes placed her last card on the table.

"HAH! Checkmate! Another victory for the great Hermes!"

She threw both arms into the air.

Yuuki examined the cards before looking up with a smile.

"Congratulations, Hermes. You've beaten me."

Hermes froze.

"...Wait. Really?"

"Really."

Her expression brightened so dramatically that Yuuki almost felt guilty.

Almost.

"Hehehe! I knew it! I knew I could do it!"

She proudly gathered the cards, already recounting the decisive moves of her magnificent victory.

Yuuki rested his chin on one hand and listened as she enthusiastically explained how she had outsmarted him.

He could have won, of course. He couldn't use absurd one turn combo. Our summoning Egyptian gods to win again.

But watching Hermes celebrate a simple card game as though she had conquered an entire fleet was worth far more than another victory.

Besides, she deserved to enjoy her moment.

"Commander!"

"Hm?"

"You'll challenge me again next time, right?"

Yuuki smiled.

"Of course."

"Excellent! Then prepare yourself! I'll become even stronger before our next duel!"

Hermes marched away with the confidence of a champion who had just conquered the world.

Yuuki watched her leave, amused.

"...I suppose that's one battle I've won by losing."

He chuckled and resumed his walk.

Unfortunately, his next encounter was considerably more energetic.

"Commander!"

Several small figures came rushing toward him from different directions.

Yuuki barely had time to recognize them before the little destroyers surrounded him.

The Sakura Empire little girls arrived first, followed by a lively group from the Eagle Union, Royal Navy, and Iron Blood.

"Commander! Commander!"

"Look what we found!"

"Are you busy?"

"Can you play with us?"

Yuuki looked down at the excited gathering.

Then he smiled.

"Not anymore, apparently."

A chorus of delighted cheers answered him.

The little ones immediately began telling him about their day. Some wanted to show him their new toys, others wanted him to watch them practice, and a few simply wanted to hold his hand while they walked.

Yuuki patiently listened to every story.

He praised their accomplishments, helped settle their little disagreements, and occasionally lifted one of the smaller girls onto his shoulders so she could see over the crowd.

The Sakura Empire destroyers eagerly demonstrated the things they had learned, while the Eagle Union girls competed to tell him the most exciting stories. The Royal Navy destroyers were equally determined to gain his attention, and the Iron Blood girls insisted that he watch their own demonstrations.

Before long, Yuuki had become the center of a small parade.

"Commander, look! I can run faster now!"

"That's wonderful. Just be careful not to trip."

"Look at mine, too!"

"Very impressive!"

"Commander, can I sit on your shoulders?"

"One at a time, please!"

The girls laughed and giggled, thoroughly enjoying themselves.

They all showed their affection in different ways. Some openly clung to him, others proudly displayed their accomplishments, and a few became shy whenever he praised them.

Yet beneath all that enthusiasm, they were still children.

They wanted someone who would listen to them, play with them, and make them feel safe.

And Yuuki was more than happy to be that person.

He spent the next stretch of time joining their games, allowing them to drag him from one activity to another.

At one point, he even found himself participating in a race around the garden while the destroyers cheered from the sidelines.

Naturally, he slowed down enough to let the little ones win.

Their celebrations were so loud that he wondered whether anyone nearby might mistake the gathering for a military parade.

"Commander! We won!"

"You certainly did!"

"Again! Let's do it again!"

Yuuki laughed.

"Give me a minute. I'm only human, you know."

One of the destroyers looked up at him.

"But you're really strong!"

"Strong people get tired, too."

The girls considered that for a moment.

Then one of them grabbed his hand.

"Then we'll rest with you!"

The others immediately agreed.

Soon, Yuuki found himself seated beneath a tree, surrounded by destroyers who leaned against his sides or sat nearby sharing snacks.

He looked around at their happy faces and smiled.

These were the moments he wanted to protect.

Not merely victories on the battlefield, but the chance for these girls to laugh, play, and grow up without constantly worrying about the next disaster.

For a little while, he was content to remain exactly where he was.

Until—

"Consort!"

Yuuki recognized that voice immediately.

He slowly closed his eyes.

"...Here we go again."

A familiar Royal Navy entourage approached, led by Queen Elizabeth herself. Warspite walked beside her, while Valiant followed with an expression suggesting that she had already decided how the afternoon would proceed.

Elizabeth stopped before Yuuki and raised her chin.

"Finally! There you are!"

Yuuki opened his eyes.

"Hey, Elly. Is something wrong?"

"Wrong? Of course not! I merely require your assistance."

He eyed her suspiciously.

"What kind of assistance?"

Elizabeth pointed toward the nearby beach.

"You shall accompany me on a walk!"

Yuuki glanced at the destroyers, who were already watching with curious expressions.

"...Can't we just walk together?"

Elizabeth puffed out her cheeks.

"Certainly not! A proper royal outing requires proper arrangements!"

Before Yuuki could ask what that meant, Elizabeth stepped closer and lifted her arms.

"Now, carry me!"

Yuuki stared at her.

"...Excuse me?"

"You heard me! Carry me!"

Warspite sighed quietly, while Valiant covered her mouth to hide a smile.

Yuuki looked from Elizabeth to the two battleships.

"Is this some kind of Royal Navy tradition I wasn't informed about?"

"It's a royal privilege!" Elizabeth declared.

"That doesn't answer my question."

"Less talking, more carrying!"

Yuuki sighed.

He had faced opponents far more dangerous than Queen Elizabeth, yet none had ever demanded to be carried to the beach with quite so much authority.

Nevertheless, he bent down and lifted her into his arms.

Elizabeth immediately settled against him with a satisfied smile.

"Hmph! Much better!"

Yuuki shook his head.

"Elly, you know you can walk perfectly well, right?"

"Of course I can! But why should I when I have my consort to carry me?"

Yuuki sighed.

"Your consort, huh?"

Elizabeth looked at him as though the answer were obvious.

"My consort, naturally!"

Warspite gave a small cough.

"Her Majesty has been calling you that for some time, Commander."

"I'm aware of that."

Valiant smiled sweetly.

"Don't forget that you're my consort as well."

Yuuki slowly turned toward her.

"...And when did that happen?"

"Ever since you accepted my challenge and allowed me to win our last fencing match, of course!"

"That was supposed to be a friendly match!"

"And I was very happy with the result."

Valiant smiled triumphantly.

Elizabeth raised her chin.

"Indeed! You have done so much for the Royal Navy and proven yourself worthy of standing beside me. Naturally, you shall be my consort!"

Yuuki looked toward Warspite, hoping for some measure of support.

She returned his gaze with a perfectly composed smile.

"Her Majesty's wishes are quite clear."

"That's not the same as agreeing with her!"

"Is it not?"

Yuuki stared at her.

Warspite merely smiled.

Then Valiant stepped closer.

"And I believe I've made my own intentions clear as well. I intend to win your affection properly as my consort, and what better way to demonstrate my worth than through another friendly fencing match?"

Warspite nodded.

"An excellent suggestion. Though I would prefer a proper sword duel."

Yuuki looked between them.

"...You two want to fight me?"

"Practice," Warspite corrected.

"Friendly practice," Valiant added.

Elizabeth waved a hand dismissively.

"Go on, then! But do not damage my consort!"

Yuuki looked down at the queen in his arms.

"Elly, I am standing right here."

"And I am perfectly aware of that!"

He sighed.

There was no escaping this, was there?

The beach was peaceful, with gentle waves rolling onto the shore and sunlight glittering across the water.

Yuuki carried Elizabeth along the sand while the queen happily pointed out anything she found worthy of her attention.

"That spot looks pleasant. Take me there!"

"Yes, Your Majesty."

"And that one as well!"

"Of course."

"And do not walk so quickly! I wish to enjoy the scenery!"

Yuuki glanced down at her.

"I'm walking at a normal pace."

"Then walk at a royal pace!"

"...Right."

Despite his complaints, he adjusted his steps and continued along the shoreline.

Elizabeth seemed perfectly content, occasionally leaning against his chest while giving him instructions about where to go next.

For all her imperious behavior, she was clearly enjoying herself.

And Yuuki, despite the absurdity of the situation, found it difficult to deny her that simple happiness.

Eventually, they returned to where Warspite and Valiant were waiting.

Warspite already had a practice sword in hand.

"Commander. Are you ready?"

Yuuki carefully set Elizabeth down on a comfortable beach chair.

"Ready as I'll ever be."

Warspite offered him a training blade.

The moment they faced each other, her expression sharpened.

"Do not underestimate me, Commander. I may be willing to stand beside you, but I have no intention of making this an easy victory."

Yuuki smiled.

"I wouldn't expect you to."

Their blades met with a sharp clang.

Warspite was a skilled swordswoman, precise and disciplined. Her attacks were measured, her footwork steady, and every strike carried the confidence of someone who had spent years mastering her weapon.

Yuuki parried and countered, matching her movements without revealing the full extent of his ability.

They exchanged several rapid strikes before Warspite finally forced him back a step.

"Ha! There!"

Yuuki smiled.

"Nicely done."

Warspite pressed her advantage. Yuuki continued to defend himself, subtly adjusting his movements to give her a genuine opportunity to land a decisive strike.

After another exchange, Warspite's blade touched his shoulder.

She stepped back and lowered her sword.

"...And that's my victory."

Yuuki nodded.

"Congratulations. You're as skilled as ever."

Warspite gave him a proud smile, though a faint suspicion lingered in her eyes.

"I shall accept that compliment. But next time, Commander, I expect to fight with everything I have. I intend to earn your hand in marriage properly."

Yuuki smiled awkwardly.

"Of course."

Warspite narrowed her eyes.

She might have accepted his answer, but she wasn't entirely convinced he had fought at his full strength.

Valiant, however, was already stepping forward.

"My turn!"

She took a fencing foil and raised it with practiced elegance.

"Now, Commander, let us see whether you can keep up with me."

Yuuki accepted a training foil of his own.

"Very well. En garde."

Their match began.

Valiant moved with graceful precision, her attacks quick and elegant. She tried to catch Yuuki off guard with feints and sudden changes of direction.

Yuuki parried each strike, giving her enough room to demonstrate her skills. Then, at a carefully chosen moment, he left an opening.

Valiant's foil touched his chest.

"Ha! I win!"

Yuuki lowered his weapon.

"You certainly do."

Valiant blinked.

"...That was easier than I expected."

"Perhaps you're better than you think."

She studied him suspiciously for a moment.

"Wait. Did you let me win?"

Yuuki paused.

"Would it make you happy if I said you won fair and square?"

Valiant stared at him.

Then her expression softened into a proud smile.

"...You really are impossible."

She stepped closer and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek.

"Thank you, Commander."

Warspite raised an eyebrow.

"Valiant, you seem rather pleased with yourself."

"Of course I am! I won, didn't I?"

She glanced at Yuuki.

"Even if he did let me win, he made me happy. I'll accept that."

Yuuki chuckled.

"Well, if it makes you happy, why not?"

Elizabeth, who had watched the entire match from her chair, clapped her hands.

"Excellent! My consort is entertaining us wonderfully!"

Yuuki turned toward her.

"Our consort, dear sister," Valiant corrected cheerfully.

Elizabeth immediately puffed out her cheeks.

"Don't get ahead of yourself! I am the Queen!"

"And I'm your sister!"

"Which makes me the elder and therefore more important!"

Yuuki rubbed his forehead.

"I'm begging you both. Please don't turn this into a royal dispute."

Warspite laughed softly.

"I'm afraid you're too late for that, Commander."

Elizabeth held out her arms toward Yuuki.

"Now, carry me back!"

"Again?"

"Of course! I am the Queen of the Royal Navy!"

Valiant promptly stepped forward.

"Hey, sis! It's my turn!"

"But I am the queen!"

"And I'm your sister!"

"That does not make you the queen!"

"I'm not trying to be the queen! I just want my turn!"

Yuuki watched the two sisters argue for a moment before letting out a long sigh.

"...Fine. Both of you."

He carefully lifted Elizabeth and Valiant, carrying them together as he began walking along the beach.

Elizabeth settled comfortably in his arms, looking thoroughly pleased with the arrangement. Valiant, equally satisfied, leaned against his shoulder.

Warspite followed beside them, her expression far too amused for Yuuki's liking.

"What's so funny?" he asked.

"Nothing, Commander."

"That's the same answer everyone gives me when something is very clearly wrong."

Warspite smiled.

"Perhaps we're simply enjoying the afternoon."

Then she moved closer and spoke with quiet confidence.

"Besides, he's my consort as well, Your Majesty."

Yuuki nearly stumbled.

"Warspite!"

"What? I thought we were being honest about our feelings."

Elizabeth looked scandalized.

"Warspite! You cannot simply declare that!"

"Why not, Your Majesty? You and Valiant have done exactly that."

Valiant nodded enthusiastically.

"She has a point, sis!"

"That's not the point!"

Yuuki sighed as the three Royal Navy women continued their discussion around him.

He had spent the day playing cards, entertaining children, receiving unexpected confessions, and allowing two accomplished warriors to claim victories over him.

Now he was carrying the queen and her sister along the beach while Warspite calmly declared herself his consort as well.

He looked toward the horizon.

"...I really need a vacation."

Elizabeth tilted her head.

"What was that?"

"Nothing, Elly."

"Good! Then take us to the next stretch of beach!"

Yuuki adjusted his hold on Elizabeth and Valiant.

"I'm carrying both of you, you know..."

"Yes, and you're doing wonderfully!" Elizabeth replied.

"Don't forget me next time!" Valiant added.

Warspite merely smiled as she walked beside them.

Yuuki continued along the shoreline, the sound of waves washing over the sand accompanying the Royal Navy's lively conversation.

For all the chaos surrounding him, the laughter of the shipgirls and the warmth of their affection made it difficult to complain too much.

Still, he couldn't help wondering how many more women would decide to confess their feelings before the day was over.

At this rate, he might need an entire fleet just to escort him on a walk.

==========

By the time evening approached, all the shipgirls Yuuki had rescued from the Void World had gathered in the central tower's dining hall.

With every new group of shipgirls brought to safety, another section of the tower had become accessible. This time, they had unlocked the third floor, which housed a spacious dining hall capable of accommodating the entire fleet.

Shipgirls from every faction were present, filling the room with lively conversations and the occasional friendly argument. Sakura Empire, Eagle Union, Royal Navy, Iron Blood, and the other factions all mingled together, sharing meals and enjoying a rare moment of peace.

For many of them, it was an unfamiliar but welcome experience. There were no battles to fight, no enemies to watch for, and no immediate threats looming over them. For once, they could simply sit together and enjoy themselves.

At one table, Hood and Amagi were already looking forward to returning to their books. Both women had been enjoying their reading time, and they exchanged pleased smiles at the prospect of continuing where they had left off.

Unfortunately, their peaceful plans would have to wait.

"So, Consort," Queen Elizabeth began, drawing everyone's attention. "Did you say that the Revival Machine is almost complete?"

Yuuki, who had been enjoying his meal, looked up.

"Yes. I need to return to the Philadelphia this evening to oversee the final stages of its construction."

The moment he mentioned the machine, conversations throughout the dining hall gradually died away.

One by one, the shipgirls turned toward him.

The Revival Machine.

For those trapped in the Void World, it represented something far greater than another piece of old shipgirl technology. It was the possibility of bringing back the comrades they had lost—the friends, sisters, and loved ones who had sacrificed themselves or disappeared during the disasters that had brought them to this place.

Yuuki understood their feelings. He knew how much hope they had placed in this project, and he had no intention of treating that hope carelessly.

"If everything goes according to plan," he continued, "we should be able to begin the revival process soon."

A murmur spread through the hall.

Excitement, anticipation, and nervousness mingled among the shipgirls. Some exchanged hopeful glances, while others clasped their hands together, afraid to ask the question that had been weighing on their minds.

Elizabeth, as usual, was the first to voice it.

"Then, who are you going to revive first?"

The question immediately silenced the room.

Every shipgirl present turned her attention to Yuuki.

He paused, looking around at their expectant faces. He had anticipated this question, of course. Given how long they had waited, it would have been strange if no one had asked.

"Please understand something," he said calmly. "I'm not going to choose someone on a whim. The first ones we revive need to be capable of helping us stabilize the situation and fill the roles that have been left vacant. We need people who can take responsibility and help lead everyone forward."

He let his words settle before continuing.

"The others will follow. I'm not abandoning anyone, and I won't forget those still waiting to come home. It simply means we have to start somewhere."

The tension in the room eased slightly, though the shipgirls continued watching him closely.

Then Yuuki's expression softened.

"But..." He leaned back in his chair. "I think I've already made my choice."

That single sentence stirred the entire dining hall.

Several shipgirls straightened in their seats. Others exchanged curious looks, trying to guess whom he had selected. Even Hood and Amagi, who had been eager to return to their books, temporarily abandoned that plan and turned their attention toward him.

Elizabeth leaned forward.

"Well? Who is it?"

Yuuki smiled faintly.

"I'm not telling you."

"WHAT?!"

Elizabeth nearly rose from her seat.

"Consort! You cannot simply announce something like that and then refuse to elaborate!"

"I just did."

"How utterly unreasonable!"

Yuuki chuckled at her outrage, but his expression soon became more thoughtful.

"Besides, I think some of you already have a pretty good idea."

The shipgirls exchanged glances.

He continued, his voice quieter this time.

"Think about who was missing when everything went wrong. Think about the ones whose absence hurt the most, and the people whose return could make the biggest difference to everyone here."

His gaze swept across the gathered factions.

"You might be able to work it out yourselves."

For a moment, nobody spoke.

Then the room erupted into whispers.

Names were exchanged across tables. Some shipgirls began speculating about their missing leaders, while others considered which of their comrades would be best suited to help rebuild their shattered fleets. A few looked toward their closest friends, silently wondering whether the person they hoped for might be among Yuuki's choices.

Elizabeth folded her arms, clearly dissatisfied with his answer.

"Hmph! You're enjoying this far too much, aren't you?"

"Maybe a little."

"Consort!"

Yuuki laughed.

"But don't worry. Once the machine is ready, you'll all know soon enough."

His words brought a measure of reassurance to the room.

There was still uncertainty, and the waiting would not be easy. But for the first time in a long while, their hopes no longer rested on wishful thinking alone. The means to bring their lost comrades back was almost within reach.

Around the dining hall, conversations gradually resumed, though the topic had changed completely. Every faction had begun discussing who might return first, and each carried its own hopes and fears.

Yuuki watched them for a moment, quietly taking in their reactions.

He knew the Revival Machine would not solve every problem. There would be difficult decisions, complicated reunions, and countless responsibilities waiting on the other side of this breakthrough.

But those were problems he was willing to face.

One step at a time, he would bring them home.

And soon, the shipgirls of the Void World would no longer have to wonder whether they would ever see their missing comrades again.