Yuuki could only sigh and shake his head as he looked around at all the odd Shipgirls who had gathered around him.
Countless Shipgirls and Nikkes from different worlds and factions.
It was chaotic.
Strange.
And yet, somehow...
Yuuki was happy.
Seeing all of them together reminded him of his old unit, back before everything went wrong—before they had been sent to their deaths at Temple Prime in Sarajevo back in 2047 at Earth 1.0.
For a brief moment, he could almost imagine his old comrades standing beside him again.
Perhaps that was why having these girls around him felt so familiar.
Not long after, two more Shipgirls approached.
The first was a tall, slender woman with long blonde hair and striking ocean-blue eyes. She wore a dark Kriegsmarine-inspired military uniform, consisting of a black double-breasted jacket and pencil skirt, paired with black thigh-high boots.
A dramatic black-and-red wool cape rested over her shoulders, its white fur trim framing her figure. A black peaked military cap adorned with red, white, and black imperial accents sat neatly upon her head, while white gloves and a prominent shoulder badge completed her commanding appearance.
Beside her stood another tall, fair-skinned woman.
Her short, snow-white hair framed a beautiful, stoic face, while her piercing blue-grey eyes carried a distant, almost melancholic gaze.
She wore a heavy winter military coat in the traditional Iron Blood style, its dark and pale colors reflecting the cold northern seas she once called home. An Iron Cross earring hung from her ear, while her military cap reinforced the image of the Lone Queen of the North.
Prinz Eugen immediately recognized them.
"Oh, Frau Bismarck and Frau Tirpitz."
Her eyes shifted between the two.
Prinz, however, couldn't help staring at Bismarck.
This Bismarck looked nothing like the version she knew from the Kancolle world.
This woman was older.
More mature.
A commanding beauty.
There was an unmistakable aura of leadership surrounding her.
Bismarck stopped before Yuuki.
Then, without hesitation, she bowed.
Tirpitz followed.
Both women lowered themselves into a respectful kneel before him.
The surrounding Shipgirls fell silent.
Nimi's eyes widened.
"Frau Bismarck! You don't have to!"
She had never imagined seeing the proud leader of Iron Blood lower herself before anyone.
Bismarck had always carried her pride with her.
Yet this wasn't submission.
It was respect.
Respect for the man standing before her—the High Commander of GDI, the leader of the Diving Eagle, and the man who had led GDI to save countless Shipgirls who had once been abandoned to their fate.
Yuuki glanced toward Eugen.
Eugen subtly shook her head.
She understood exactly what Bismarck was doing.
So Yuuki didn't interrupt.
Bismarck raised her head.
"Guten Tag, Herr Kommandant Yuuki."
Her voice was firm, but respectful.
"I am the Iron Blood battleship entrusted with the name Bismarck."
Yuuki smiled.
"Bismarck."
He looked at her carefully.
"Eugen told me you were the one who led Iron Blood. She and Hipper have told me quite a lot about you."
Bismarck's expression softened slightly.
"I hope they were good stories."
She paused.
"I am sorry to appear before you like this, rather than as the Bismarck you imagined."
"You don't have to apologize."
Yuuki shook his head.
"Enterprise came to me when she was desperate and had nowhere else to turn. Elizabeth came to me from the Void World, already dead and awaiting revival."
His expression became more serious.
"Some of the others suffered even worse fates."
Bismarck remained silent for a moment.
"I see..."
She lowered her gaze.
"Then I still hope to be able to lead Iron Blood beneath your banner."
Her voice weakened.
"I am merely... a useless—"
"Stop there."
Yuuki's voice was firm enough to make her pause.
Bismarck looked up.
"Please don't do that."
Yuuki stepped closer.
"You're alive. You're healthy. You're repaired."
He gently placed a hand on her shoulder.
"You are Bismarck."
His voice softened.
"The leader of Iron Blood."
Bismarck's eyes widened slightly.
"Soon, you'll lead Iron Blood under GDI's banner and carry the Diving Eagle crest alongside the others."
Yuuki looked toward the Shipgirls surrounding them.
"These girls were once in the same position you are in now. They thought they were broken. They thought they were useless."
He shook his head.
"I never intended to see you that way."
Bismarck stared at him silently.
Yuuki smiled.
"So don't lower yourself."
For a moment, Bismarck seemed unable to find the right words.
Then she let out a quiet breath.
"If Hood were here... she would scold you."
Bismarck's expression immediately changed.
Her eyes widened.
"You've met Frau Hood?"
She leaned forward slightly.
"You know where she is?"
"I retrieved her Wisdom Cube."
Yuuki nodded.
"She is safely back home in containment, protected. She's in the Void World, awaiting resurrection alongside Elizabeth."
Bismarck's eyes widened further.
"She is... safe?"
"Yes."
Yuuki smiled reassuringly.
"She is safe."
The tension in Bismarck's expression finally eased.
"How?"
She looked genuinely confused.
"The Exelia Trench is incredibly deep. I personally led expeditions to find her. How could you possibly have retrieved her?"
Yuuki scratched his cheek.
"Honestly?"
He held up one hand.
"I don't know."
Bismarck blinked.
"I met her, and somehow I ended up with her Wisdom Cube in my hand."
He shrugged.
"No idea how it got there."
For perhaps the first time since approaching him, Bismarck looked genuinely bewildered.
Then her expression softened.
"Then... she is safe."
She closed her eyes for a moment.
"Thank heavens. I thought... she was lost forever."
A small smile appeared on her face.
"Then, please forgive me."
She straightened while remaining on one knee.
"I once carried the power and responsibility of Iron Blood. To stand before you like this..."
Her voice briefly faltered.
"I felt as though I had failed the very name I carried."
She clenched her fist.
"I refused to let Hood see what I had become."
Her voice regained its strength.
"Please allow me to achieve that once more."
She looked directly into Yuuki's eyes.
"I am eager to begin."
Yuuki smiled.
He gently placed both hands on her shoulders and helped her to her feet.
"Then stand proudly."
The words came in fluent German.
Bismarck froze.
So did Tirpitz.
Prinz's eyes widened.
Friedrich, Mecklenburg, and Hindenburg all turned toward him in surprise.
Even Eugen looked impressed.
Yuuki simply smiled.
"Yes, I know how to speak Iron Blood or German."
He glanced around at their stunned expressions.
"But my point is this..."
His expression became warm but firm.
"Please don't lower yourself before me next time."
Bismarck slowly straightened.
Yuuki gestured toward the Diving Eagle crest worn by the others.
"You will soon carry the flag of GDI."
He looked directly at her.
"We don't lower ourselves."
His expression softened.
"Besides, you girls aren't weapons."
He looked around at the Shipgirls surrounding them.
"And you're certainly not my subjects."
His gaze returned to Bismarck.
"You're my companions."
A faint smile crossed his face.
"And my staff members."
He gave her shoulder a gentle pat.
"So have your pride once more."
His voice became firm.
"You will carry the crest of the Diving Eagle."
Bismarck's cheeks reddened slightly.
She placed a hand over her chest.
"Understood."
Her smile grew more confident.
"If you allow me to carry that crest, I will carry it with pride."
She gave him a respectful nod.
"Please treat me well... Herr Kommandant."
"I will."
Yuuki then turned toward the woman standing beside Bismarck.
He studied her for a moment.
The snow-white hair.
The cold blue eyes.
The quiet, almost lonely presence.
"Now..."
A faint smile appeared on his face.
"You must be her sister."
His eyes settled on the white-haired woman.
"Tirpitz, right?"
"Yes... Herr Kommandant."
Tirpitz finally stepped forward.
Her voice was quiet, almost hesitant, but there was a deep sincerity behind every word.
"I was imprisoned for so long, unable to return home. I hope you can accept me just as you have accepted my sister."
She looked toward Yuuki, her cold blue eyes softening.
"Please... show me the world through the Eagle's Dive."
She placed a hand over her chest.
"I am Tirpitz, Bismarck-class battleship. I have a long history of being stranded in the north, trapped in the cold winter seas before I was finally retrieved."
Her fingers tightened slightly.
"But now... I am in service once more."
She looked directly at him.
"To you, Herr Kommandant."
Tirpitz fell silent for a moment.
Then she spoke again, her voice carrying the weight of years spent waiting.
"Herr Kommandant... once you become accustomed to waiting, you eventually lose sight of what you were waiting for."
Yuuki listened quietly.
"When I heard your voice, I knew that..."
Her expression softened.
"If I waited just a little longer... you would come for me."
Yuuki's expression became gentle.
"Here I am."
He stepped closer.
"I'm sorry to have kept you waiting."
Tirpitz's eyes trembled slightly.
A faint smile appeared on her lips.
"You're finally here, Commander..."
She took a slow breath.
"Our waiting was worth it."
Her voice grew steadier.
"Thank you for saving our lives."
She looked toward Bismarck.
"On behalf of my sister... please allow us to join you."
Both sisters stood proudly together.
"To fight beneath your banner."
Yuuki looked between them.
"Bear in mind that you aren't fighting under Iron Blood or Azur Lane."
His tone was calm but firm.
"You're fighting under the Global Defense Initiative."
He gestured toward the many Shipgirls and Nikkes gathered around them.
"A place where Shipgirls and Nikkes from various factions and worlds stand together as one."
"No factions."
He smiled.
"You can keep your identities. I won't erase where you came from."
His gaze moved between the sisters.
"But from now on, you're part of a family that brings all of you together again."
Bismarck and Tirpitz listened intently.
Yuuki continued.
"Right now, you already have Nimi, Eugen, Hipper, Blücher, Lützow, Seydlitz, Weser, and Prinz Eugen from the Kancolle world."
He gestured toward the others.
"Mecklenburg, Hindenburg, and Friedrich are here as well."
His expression became warmer.
"And in the Void World, Leipzig, Z18, Z19, Karlsruhe, Köln, Königsberg, Z20, and Z21 are all awaiting resurrection."
He looked directly at Bismarck.
"Bismarck, you're their leader."
His voice carried quiet authority.
"Please lead them just as you trusted me to lead you."
Bismarck's eyes hardened with determination.
"I will, Commander."
She placed her fist against her chest.
"The GDI Iron Blood will not disappoint you!"
Eugen suddenly grinned.
"Finally! We got our old Bisko back!"
Bismarck's confident expression immediately faltered.
"Bisko?"
Yuuki looked toward Eugen.
"Bisko?"
Eugen laughed.
"Pff... that's our nickname for her."
Bismarck's cheeks slowly turned red.
"Please don't call me that..."
She looked away.
"It makes me sound..."
Eugen leaned closer with a mischievous smile.
"Cute?"
"Nein!"
Bismarck's face turned even redder.
The surrounding Shipgirls immediately broke into laughter.
Even Tirpitz covered her mouth, hiding a small smile.
Yuuki chuckled.
"Well... welcome back, Bismarck."
Bismarck sighed.
"Thank you, Herr Kommandant."
Eugen grinned.
"Bisko."
"Eugen!"
"Biiisko."
"Eugen!"
Yuuki shook his head.
For someone who had only just reclaimed her pride and leadership...
Bismarck had already been reduced to blushing over a nickname.
And somehow, Yuuki thought that was a good sign.
It meant the old Bismarck really was coming back.
"Umm..."
Prinz quietly approached Bismarck, her hands clasped nervously in front of her.
Bismarck noticed her and tilted her head.
"Ah... you're the Kancolle Prinz Eugen."
Prinz nodded.
"Y-Yes, Frau Bismarck."
Bismarck studied her for a moment.
"You're quite different from the Eugen I know."
She glanced toward her own Eugen, then back to Prinz.
"Do I have a counterpart in your world as well?"
Prinz's expression brightened slightly.
"Yes!"
She hesitated.
"Umm... she is more of the older-sister type."
Her voice softened.
"I... really miss her."
Bismarck's expression immediately became gentler.
"I understand."
She stepped closer.
"Then let me ask you something."
Prinz looked up at her.
"Will you trust me to lead you?"
Prinz didn't hesitate this time.
"Yes!"
She nodded firmly.
"Please do."
A small smile appeared on her face.
"You're not the Bismarck from my world... but you're still Big Sis Bismarck."
She bowed her head politely.
"Please treat me well."
Bismarck smiled.
"Of course."
There was something unexpectedly touching about seeing the normally shy Prinz willingly place her trust in another version of Bismarck.
Bismarck looked at her for another moment.
"You really are different from our Eugen."
Her gaze shifted toward the Iron Blood Eugen, who was already wearing a mischievous smile.
"Our Eugen is far more..."
She paused, searching for the appropriate word.
"Shameless?"
Eugen immediately placed a hand against her chest.
"Excuse me?"
Hipper snorted.
"Prim and polite, right?"
She glanced at Prinz.
"Unlike a certain someone."
"Hey!"
Eugen protested.
Prinz lowered her head, trying to hide a small smile.
Bismarck couldn't help but chuckle.
"I see."
She looked between the two Eugens.
"Perhaps having two of you in the same fleet will be... interesting."
Eugen grinned.
"Oh, it definitely will be."
Prinz immediately looked nervous.
"E-Eugen..."
"Don't worry, Prinz."
Eugen slipped an arm around her shoulders.
"I'll take good care of you."
Hipper glanced at her suspiciously.
"...That's exactly what worries me."
The surrounding Shipgirls burst into laughter.
Even Bismarck smiled.
========
The laughter had barely settled when Avrora suddenly appeared, practically dragging two women along with her.
"Beloved!"
Yuuki looked over.
"Avrora?"
The Northern Parliament cruiser beamed as she brought her sisters forward.
The first was a tall, elegant woman with long white hair braided down her back and striking silver eyes. Her appearance carried the unmistakable beauty of the Northern Parliament, and she wore a refined white northern-style military outfit designed around warm fabrics, layered details, and the traditional colors of her homeland.
Beside her stood another tall woman with long pinkish hair and soft bluish eyes.
At first glance, she looked almost exactly like an older version of Avrora—though her different hair and eye colors immediately distinguished her.
She, too, wore a Northern Parliament outfit designed for the cold, combining military elegance with practical winter clothing.
Avrora proudly presented them.
"Beloved, it is about time I introduced you to my older sisters."
The white-haired woman stepped forward first.
"I am Pallada, of the Pallada-class cruisers of the Northern Parliament."
She gave Yuuki a graceful bow.
"I am the elder sister of Avrora. Thank you for rescuing us, beloved."
Yuuki immediately sweatdropped.
"Ah... you don't have to follow Avrora's habit of calling me that."
He glanced toward Avrora.
"You're both doing it now?"
Pallada looked genuinely puzzled.
"But you are connected to us."
She tilted her head slightly.
"Is it not natural for us Northerners to refer to you as beloved?"
She glanced toward Avrora.
"Avrora calls you beloved because of her love for you, does she not?"
Yuuki sighed.
"Well... she is one of my fiancées."
Pallada's silver eyes widened.
"Ah."
She slowly looked toward her younger sister.
Avrora's cheeks turned bright red.
Yet despite her embarrassment, she also looked rather proud.
Pallada smiled knowingly.
"I see."
Yuuki could only shake his head.
Before he could say anything else, the pink-haired woman stepped forward enthusiastically.
"Privet, beloved!"
She gave him a bright smile.
"I finally get to meet you!"
Yuuki blinked.
The woman continued without hesitation.
"I am Diana, the second ship of the Pallada class, of the Northern Parliament!"
She pointed proudly toward Avrora.
"Avrora told me that you're her beloved Commander and that you can converse quite well in the Northern language."
Yuuki smiled.
"Oh, uh... yes. I can speak fluent Russian."
Diana's eyes widened.
"Really?"
She looked delighted.
Yuuki chuckled.
"You're a lively one, aren't you?"
"Yes!"
Diana answered immediately.
"When the doctors healed me, I suddenly felt like my old self again."
She glanced toward Pallada.
"Though Sestra Pallada has always been the stern and serious one among us."
Pallada sighed.
"Diana."
"What?"
Diana smiled innocently.
"It's true."
Yuuki laughed softly.
"And Avrora?"
Diana immediately looked toward her youngest sister.
"Sestra Avrora is our youngest."
Avrora puffed out her cheeks.
"I am not that young anymore!"
Pallada smiled.
"You will always be our little sister."
"Sestra!"
The sisters laughed.
Yuuki watched the three of them for a moment.
After everything they had endured, seeing Avrora standing between her two sisters—alive, healthy, and arguing like a normal family—was strangely heartwarming.
Avrora slipped closer to Yuuki and smiled.
"Now my family is together again."
Yuuki gently patted her head.
"Yeah."
He smiled.
"That's what matters."
Pallada looked around the hall, taking in the many different Shipgirls and Nikkes gathered under the Diving Eagle.
"Are we the only Northerners in your faction?"
Yuuki thought for a moment.
"Other than Lützow who is part Iron Blood and Irisviel as an Arcane Shipgirl of the North, yes. You three are pretty much the only Northern Shipgirls we have."
He paused.
"Although we also have several Northern Nikkes. Ludmilla, Tove, Neve, and Alice are from the north as well."
Pallada's expression softened.
"I see..."
She glanced toward Avrora and Diana.
"Then we aren't the only ones left."
"No."
Yuuki shook his head.
"And don't worry, Pallada."
His voice became reassuring.
"We'll find the other Northern Shipgirls scattered across the world. We already have data from the headquarters, so locating them will be much easier."
Pallada nodded slowly.
"Then... until they are found, I suppose someone must take responsibility."
Her expression became serious.
"We have lost so many."
She looked down for a moment.
"Comrade Sovetskaya Rossiya..."
Yuuki noticed the change in her expression.
"Do you have any idea where she could be?"
Pallada shook her head.
"When we were scattered, she ordered us to scatter as well. We don't know where the other Northern Shipgirls went."
She clenched her hands.
"We even lost our mothership, Kirov."
Yuuki nodded.
"I see."
He looked toward Pallada.
"Then we'll locate them."
His voice carried quiet certainty.
"Sooner or later, we'll bring them back together."
Pallada's silver eyes softened.
"Thank you, beloved."
She gave him another respectful bow.
"Please take care of Diana and me just as you care for our little Sestra Avrora."
Yuuki smiled.
"I will."
He glanced toward Avrora.
"Though Avrora does tend to be a little clingy."
Avrora immediately puffed out her cheeks.
"I am not!"
Diana giggled.
Pallada smiled knowingly.
"We Northerners naturally seek warmth."
She gestured toward Yuuki.
"And the closest source of warmth is our beloved—the warm light."
Yuuki stared at her.
"...See my point?"
Avrora immediately wrapped her arms around his arm.
"No problem."
She smiled proudly.
"I shall simply stay close to my beloved."
Yuuki sighed.
"Exactly my point."
Diana laughed.
Pallada merely smiled.
For the Northern Shipgirls, warmth wasn't merely about temperature.
It was comfort.
It was safety.
And after everything they had lost, Yuuki had become their brightest sources of that warmth.
For now, at least, the three sisters could stand together again.
And that was enough.
"Oh, the sly snake has already charmed the leader of Iron Blood and her sister. Even the Pallada-class is no exception. Thou sure art fast, O sly snake."
The teasing voice drew everyone's attention.
The next person to approach was none other than Duke of York.
Tall and elegant, Duke of York carried herself with the unmistakable air of a Royal Navy aristocrat. Her long, flowing hair shifted from muted pink into deeper magenta tones, framing a pair of sharp crimson eyes. Her long, pierced ears gave her an unmistakably elven appearance, while a subtle fang peeked from beneath her lips whenever she smiled.
Her attire matched her personality perfectly—a regal military-inspired outfit blended with dark gothic elements, crimson and white accents giving her the appearance of a noble vampire aristocrat.
More importantly, part of the elves and the only one among her sisters possessed small magical heritage.
She stepped forward with a graceful smile, her crimson eyes settling on Yuuki.
"Thou hast even charmed my beloved Wales."
She placed a hand against her chest dramatically.
"Ah, what a tragedy."
Yuuki blinked.
"Well, that's not my fault."
Duke of York's smile widened.
"And whose fault is it?"
Yuuki opened his mouth.
Then stopped.
"I have absolutely no idea how to retort to that."
Duke of York laughed softly.
"Sister... please."
The exasperated voice came from behind her.
Wales blushed as her sisters followed behind her.
Standing there was King George V, tall and dignified, her long blonde hair neatly styled with a blue ribbon woven through it. Her blue eyes carried the calm authority of a seasoned commander.
She wore her immaculate Royal Navy military uniform—a white collared shirt beneath a red-and-white double-breasted jacket adorned with gold epaulettes and medals. A red, white, and blue ribbon rested around her neck, while a white pleated skirt, black thigh-high stockings, garters, and polished boots completed the ensemble. A fur-trimmed red cape rested over her shoulders, and a golden-scabbarded sword hung at her side.
George looked between Duke of York and Wales.
"My sister has been teasing you ever since she arrived."
Duke of York tilted her head innocently.
"I merely speak the truth. Isn't that right, Wales?"
Wales did not have any answer.
George sighed.
"You call everything a tragedy."
"Because everything is a tragedy when one's beloved has been stolen."
Yuuki immediately cross his arms.
"Stolen is a strong word."
George's expression softened slightly.
"She does have a tendency to exaggerate. Probably she isn't the first one being charmed by you."
"Exaggerate?"
Duke of York placed a hand over her heart.
"Thou woundest me, sister."
Before George could answer, another woman approached.
Howe.
The Royal Navy battleship carried herself with an elegant, almost knightly grace. Her exceptionally long blonde hair flowed down her back, framing bright blue-teal eyes. Her regal red dress, trimmed with soft white fur around the collar, emphasized her noble appearance.
She gave Yuuki a polite smile.
"Please forgive my sister. She has always enjoyed teasing people."
Duke of York immediately turned toward Howe.
"And yet thou art just as guilty."
Howe blinked.
"...I beg your pardon?"
"You were quite fond of our commander as well."
Howe's cheeks immediately gained a faint flush.
"York..."
Yuuki quietly looked away.
"I think I'm beginning to understand the problem here."
Georgina raised an eyebrow.
"What problem?"
Yuuki gestured vaguely toward the four Royal Navy women.
"Apparently, I'm surrounded."
Duke of York smiled.
"Thou art learning quickly, sly snake."
Another figure stepped forward before the teasing could continue.
Anson.
The tall, slender Royal Navy shipgirl wore a red-and-white double-breasted military coat, its gold epaulettes, chains, and rank decorations giving her a commanding presence. Her long brown-peach hair was arranged into elegant buns secured with a blue ribbon, while striking red eyes watched the scene with calm curiosity. Teardrop earrings hung from her ears, and white gloves completed her formal appearance. A black pleated skirt with a red stripe and white high-heeled thigh-high boots finished her uniform.
Anson looked at Duke of York.
"Are you quite finished, sis? You pulled me out of my exploration of this magnificent carrier!"
Duke of York smiled.
"For the moment."
Anson then turned toward Yuuki and offered a graceful bow.
"Lord Commander."
Yuuki nodded.
"Anson. It's good to finally meet you properly."
She straightened.
"And it is good to finally meet the man who has apparently managed to gather half the world's Shipgirls under one banner."
Yuuki rubbed the back of his head.
"When you put it that way, it sounds much more complicated than it actually was."
King George gave him a skeptical look.
"Was it?"
Yuuki paused.
"...Yes."
Howe giggled softly.
Duke of York's crimson eyes gleamed with amusement.
"A sly snake indeed."
Yuuki sighed.
"I feel like I'm going to be hearing that a lot."
"You shall."
Duke of York smiled.
"Until thou provest otherwise."
George shook her head, though a faint smile appeared on her lips.
The four Royal Navy women stood together before Yuuki, their presence carrying the pride and dignity of the Royal Navy.
And yet, unlike the factions of old, they now stood beneath the same Diving Eagle.
Another group of Shipgirls had found their place within GDI.
And judging from Duke of York's expression, Yuuki suspected he was never going to hear the end of it.
Belfast, standing beside Yuuki, merely shrugged.
Yuuki gave her an amused smile.
"Please forgive my sisters, Lord Commander," Wales said with a small sigh. "York tends to be quite the teaser. Georgina is... well, she can be a little too supportive at times. Howe is the normal one, and Anson is basically a bigger version of Sandy—with common sense."
Anson's eyebrow twitched.
"I heard that."
Wales smiled innocently.
"Good."
Yuuki chuckled.
Duke of York merely looked pleased with herself.
Wales then stepped beside Yuuki and gestured toward her sisters.
"Sisters, please introduce yourselves properly."
King George V stepped forward first.
She straightened her posture, her expression suddenly becoming serious and confident.
"So, this is my new battlefield."
Her blue eyes gleamed with excitement.
"Ahh... how I've long awaited this."
She placed a hand over her chest and gave Yuuki a proud smile.
"Commander, you are in the presence of King George V. Do use me well."
She continued with the confidence of a veteran commander.
"I am the nameship of the King George V-class battleships. I served as flagship for my country and led the fleet into numerous battles, including the fateful encounter with Bismarck."
Her eyes briefly narrowed with nostalgia.
"After getting a brief taste of that thrill, I've been craving the opportunity to cross swords with her once again."
She paused.
"But I digress. Is there anything else you'd like to know about me?"
Yuuki stared at her for a moment.
"Oh. I was sure I was going to hear a depressing introduction."
Wales immediately nodded.
"I warned them. Present yourselves with confidence."
George gave her sister a slightly embarrassed look.
"Thank you for the reminder."
The mood immediately became lighter.
The next woman stepped forward.
"I am Wales's older sister. You can call me Georgina."
Yuuki smiled.
"Georgina... How wonderful."
Georgina's expression brightened.
"Commander, are you well versed in the art of making sweets?"
Yuuki blinked.
"That depends on the type of sweets. I know how to bake."
"Ah, wonderful!"
Georgina's eyes practically sparkled.
"You wouldn't mind indulging me in a duel of the culinary arts? Especially when it comes to cakes?"
Yuuki laughed.
"Sure."
Wales looked between them.
"You wouldn't mind, Commander?"
"We've been fighting for almost two weeks," Yuuki replied. "I'd like to do something other than fighting all the time."
He paused.
"And besides, if it's cakes, I'm sure everyone here will want a slice."
"Eldridge wants the biggest!"
Eldridge raised both hands excitedly as she floated beside them.
Yuuki laughed.
"Of course you do."
Belfast stepped forward with a polite smile.
"Cakes, then. I can prepare the kitchen later."
Georgina nodded decisively.
"Then it is settled. Six o'clock in the kitchen. We shall let the fleet decide whose cake is the best."
"It's a date, then."
The moment the words left Yuuki's mouth, Georgina froze.
"...Date?"
Yuuki immediately realized how that sounded.
"Eh—no, I mean..."
Georgina's cheeks turned bright red.
Wales covered her mouth, trying not to laugh.
Duke of York looked absolutely delighted.
"How interesting."
Yuuki quickly changed the subject.
"Anyway... you can bake?"
Georgina nodded.
"Yes. It has always been a dream of mine, Commander. I wanted to open a sweet shop one day."
Yuuki considered it for a moment.
"Hmm. Why not collaborate with my nikke maid Ade?"
Georgina tilted her head.
"Ade?"
"She wants to open a maid café," Yuuki explained. "If you can sell your sweets there, it's like killing two birds with one stone."
Georgina's eyes widened.
"Really? I would be delighted."
She smiled warmly.
"I shall discuss it with this Ade later. I heard she is now one of the Royal Maids."
Her expression softened.
"And... my thanks for reviving Wales."
Yuuki's smile faded slightly as he understood the weight behind her words.
"It has been years since we last saw her. Years since she died in front of us. Years of wondering if we would ever see her again."
George lowered her gaze.
Wales quietly reached for her sister's hand.
Yuuki looked at them both.
"She has already been revived."
His voice was gentle but certain.
"She hasn't been activated yet, but her Wisdom Cube is safe."
He smiled.
"Now, she lives."
For a moment, none of the sisters spoke.
Georgina squeezed Wales's hand.
And Wales smiled.
King George V-class sisters could stand together again.
Not as memories.
Not as ghosts of a lost fleet.
But as living Shipgirls beneath the Diving Eagle.
"Oh, sly snake... thou even charmed Georgina? This is a tragedy indeed."
Duke of York's crimson eyes lingered on Yuuki.
She slowly licked her lips, the faint gleam of her fang visible as she smiled.
Yuuki shivered.
"I am Duke of York of the King George V-class."
Her voice carried that familiar aristocratic, almost predatory elegance.
"Thou art certainly an interesting one. But now, thou art the one who captures my interest the most."
She took another step closer.
"Back then... thou wert the one who gathered Shipgirls from across the world and even charmed mine rival, Kaguya."
Her crimson eyes narrowed playfully.
"My... if thou displays such an expression before me, I fear I shall not be able to contain myself."
Yuuki instinctively took half a step back.
Duke of York smiled.
"Ah... I see."
Her gaze seemed to pierce straight through him.
"Thou possess an immense amount of magical power."
She inhaled softly.
"So the scent of magic that has been driving me mad... emanates from thy very soul."
Yuuki blinked.
"Wait, what?"
Duke of York placed a hand over her chest and smiled seductively.
"O sinful Commander who tempts me so... engrave my name upon thine heart."
Her crimson eyes glowed faintly.
"Duke of York, of the Royal Navy."
Yuuki stared at her.
For once, he genuinely didn't know what to say.
"Man... even my magic has a scent?"
He rubbed the back of his neck, visibly bewildered.
He had endured Eugen's teasing.
Kaguya's shameless affection barely fazed him anymore.
Even Akagi's overwhelming intensity had long since stopped surprising him.
But Duke of York had somehow managed to make him genuinely shiver.
And that was new.
Yuuki glanced around.
"Wait... my magic has a scent?"
He looked toward Kaguya and Irisviel.
"Kaguya and Iris said my magic was sweet before. Now you're telling me you can actually smell it?"
"Yes."
Kaguya answered almost immediately.
Yuuki slowly turned toward her.
"...How long have you known?"
Kaguya gave him an innocent smile.
"Quite some time, dearest. Probably from the moment we met."
Yuuki's eyes widened.
Duke of York chuckled.
"Those with magical heritage can sense such things. The Arcanes possess keener senses than others."
Yuuki slowly turned his head.
His gaze swept across the room.
Centaur.
Albion.
Mecklenburg.
Hindenburg.
All four suddenly found something very interesting somewhere else.
Centaur looked toward the ceiling.
Albion suddenly became fascinated with the decorations.
Mecklenburg whistled innocently.
Hindenburg simply turned her head away.
Yuuki's eyes narrowed.
Then he looked toward Kaguya.
She smiled.
He looked toward Irisviel.
She smiled awkwardly.
"...You all knew?"
Nobody answered.
Yuuki's expression became increasingly suspicious.
"So this entire time..."
He looked down at himself.
"I thought I was hiding my magic."
He remembered all the times he had deliberately suppressed his magical energy.
Then his expression changed.
"Wait."
His eyes widened.
"Did it become obvious when I gave Iris my mana?"
Irisviel's expression became slightly embarrassed.
"That... may have contributed to it."
Yuuki stared at her.
"I forgot to suppress it afterward, didn't I?"
Irisviel gave a small nod.
"Probably."
Yuuki covered his face with one hand.
"So I've been walking around this entire time practically broadcasting my magic to anyone with magical heritage?"
Kaguya giggled.
"Indeed, dearest."
Duke of York smiled.
"And quite a delicious scent it is."
Yuuki slowly lowered his hand.
"...Great."
He looked around at the magical Shipgirls and elves who were suddenly very interested in anything except looking directly at him.
"So much for keeping that a secret."
Mecklenburg finally glanced back at him.
"To be fair, Great Wizard... it's rather hard to hide something that strong."
Hindenburg nodded.
"Your magical presence is extraordinary, Contractor."
Centaur smiled apologetically.
"I noticed it almost immediately."
Albion gave a small, elegant nod.
"So did I."
Yuuki stared at all four of them.
"You could have told me."
They exchanged glances.
Kaguya simply smiled.
Yuuki sighed.
"Right. Of course."
Duke of York stepped closer again.
Her crimson eyes gleamed with amusement.
"Do not be troubled, sly snake."
She smiled, revealing her fang.
"Thy secret is quite safe with me."
Yuuki looked at her suspiciously.
"That's somehow not reassuring. Plus, its no longer a secret."
Duke of York laughed.
And around them, several of the Shipgirls quietly exchanged amused looks.
It seemed Yuuki had just discovered another problem with possessing an absurd amount of magical power.
He couldn't hide the smell.
"Enough..."
Howe suddenly stepped behind Duke of York and delivered a sharp karate chop to the back of her head.
Whack!
"Ah!"
Duke of York staggered forward, rubbing the back of her head.
"What a tragedy... my little sister lacks respect for her elder."
She glanced back at Howe before turning her attention toward Yuuki again.
"Oh, sly snake... perhaps thou could transfer some of thy magical power to me?"
Yuuki stared at her.
"I don't think that's how it works. If I simply overflow your core with magic, it could harm you."
Duke of York puffed out her cheeks.
"Pff..."
Kaguya immediately burst into laughter.
Duke of York snapped her gaze toward her.
"Dost thou dare laugh at me, Kaguya?!"
Kaguya tried to suppress her laughter.
"Forgive me."
Duke of York pointed dramatically at her.
"This one shall match thee one day!"
Kaguya smiled.
"This wife will look forward to it. The day thy puny magic can match this wife's."
"Puny?!"
Howe sighed.
"I'm sorry about my sister, Commander."
She gave Yuuki a small bow.
"Prior to my being sent to the Pacific, I always worked side by side with George. But aside from the one time we escorted our Sardegnian friends, I suppose I don't have too many notable feats to my name."
She smiled politely.
"It's a pleasure meeting you, Commander. I'm Howe of the King George V-class. I hope we can build a healthy relationship."
Georgina immediately leaned toward her.
"Healthy in terms of being a normal, loving couple."
Howe froze.
"S-Sister!"
Her face flushed bright red.
"That is not my intention!"
York smiled innocently.
"Yet... thou should be careful, sister. That sly snake might bind thee before thou knowest it."
"Sister!"
Yuuki couldn't help but laugh.
"Haha... I guess you're the normal one."
He glanced between the sisters.
"Your sisters are quite amusing, despite being such prim and proper Royal ladies."
Howe smiled sheepishly.
"Wales and York are lovely ladies. At times, however, I struggle to keep up with their thought processes."
She glanced toward Duke of York.
"Then there's Anson... well, being Anson."
Anson raised a hand.
"Ehee!"
Howe sighed fondly.
"As for Georgina... she's always been good to me. She often treats me to a cookie or two. More like I am always her taste tester."
Her expression softened.
"But I wish she'd stop treating me like I'm still a child."
Yuuki smiled.
"Isn't that wonderful? Having sisters who still watch out for you?"
Howe's smile became gentler.
"Yes... indeed."
She looked toward Georgina.
"She changed a lot after Wales passed on. But seeing her like this once more... with Wales being alive."
Howe paused.
"It's almost as though that change never happened."
Yuuki nodded.
"Then you'll be fine, Howe."
He gave her a slight bow.
"A pleasure to meet you."
Howe returned the gesture.
"And you as well, Commander."
Before the conversation could continue, Anson suddenly stepped forward with an energetic smile.
"Ehee! Commander! Nice to meet ya!"
She gave him an enthusiastic wave.
"I am Anson! The little sister of the Georgina-class! Pleased to meet you!"
Yuuki blinked.
"Lively one, aren't you?"
"Of course!"
Anson's eyes immediately lit up with curiosity.
"Commander, could you tell me more about GDI's technology? I want to know more about the faction!"
Yuuki chuckled.
"You're like Akashi with her eagerness, Sandy with her recklessness... but with a little common sense mixed in."
Anson grinned.
"Ehee..."
"Sure. Whenever we have some time together, I'll share what I can."
"Really?"
Her eyes practically sparkled.
"Ehee... then let's be best of friends, Commander!"
Yuuki smiled.
"Sounds good."
Anson pumped her fist excitedly.
"It's a promise!"
The Royal Navy sisters watched the exchange.
Duke of York smiled knowingly.
Howe looked amused.
Georgina simply shook her head.
And Yuuki couldn't help but think that, somehow, GDI had gained another very energetic problem.
A cheerful one, at least.
Not long after Yuuki finished welcoming Bismarck, Tirpitz and the King George sisters, three of the newer Royal Maids approached him.
Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Newcastle.
For all three, this was the first time they had stood face-to-face with their new master.
Glasgow stepped forward first.
The tall, slender maid had long black hair and blue eyes, dressed in the traditional dark-blue Royal Navy maid uniform. A white apron covered the front of her dress, while elbow-length white gloves, dark-blue knee-high boots, and a classic maid headdress completed the outfit.
She gracefully lifted the edge of her skirt and bowed.
"Greetings, Master. I'm Glasgow, Southampton-class light cruiser of the Royal Navy."
She straightened proudly.
"I fought in the Norwegian Campaign, escorted our ships through the Arctic, and participated in various other operations..."
She hesitated.
"B-but my eyes aren't that great."
Her expression became slightly embarrassed.
"But I am a great lassie! I oughta apologise to Imogen... Ye know?"
Yuuki blinked.
"Uhh... what?"
Glasgow's expression became even more confused.
"I'm Glasgow, light cruiser and part of the Southampton subclass of the Town class. I am honoured to be part of your fleet, Commander. I am at your service."
Yuuki paused.
Then his expression changed as realization dawned on him.
"Oh... you're from the Caribbean part of the sea."
Glasgow tilted her head.
"Caribbean?"
"You use 'ye' and call yourself a 'lass.' Normally, I'd associate that with Caribbean English."
Glasgow blinked.
Yuuki continued, trying to explain.
"Well, I don't know what you call it here, but in my world, that sort of speech developed from the mixture of Spanish and English during the Golden Age of Piracy."
Glasgow's eyes widened slightly.
"Ahh... then, ye won't mind me speaking like this?"
Yuuki chuckled.
"As long as you keep it in wraps, I won't mind."
He glanced toward Belfast.
"Though, try asking Bel's opinion first. She can decide whether you're allowed to use formal English while on maid duty."
Glasgow immediately straightened.
"Ah, I won't disappoint ye, Master. I promise ye that I will be a great lass of a maid!"
Yuuki couldn't hold back a laugh.
"Pff... haha. Don't worry about it."
Glasgow smiled proudly.
"Aye!"
Another maid stepped forward.
Newcastle gracefully bowed.
She had a slender frame, medium bust, and long brown hair tied into a sidetail beneath a black maid headdress. Her light-blue eyes carried a calm and professional expression.
Her uniform combined the elegance of a traditional maid with the distinctive Town-class style—a white detached collar with a dangling diamond, a white apron over a brown frilled top, black-and-white frilled skirt, black pantyhose, strapped shoes, and detached black sleeves decorated with white frills.
"Apologies, Master."
She glanced toward Glasgow.
"My sister tends to have some problems with her dialect."
Glasgow puffed out her cheeks.
"Oi!"
Newcastle continued without missing a beat.
"I am the Town-class light cruiser Newcastle. Thank you for looking after my sisters and our head maid, Belfast."
Yuuki smiled.
"Ahh... nice to meet you, Newcastle."
He looked toward the growing number of maids.
"Looks like the maid contingent has grown quite a bit."
He counted them mentally.
"Alongside the five Nikke maids and Arisa, you girls are now eligible to form a proper maid squad under Belfast."
Newcastle's expression became serious.
"Rest assured. I will perform my duties to your expectations."
"Please do."
Yuuki smiled.
"You'll make a great maid alongside Glasgow."
Glasgow immediately placed a hand against her chest.
"A great lass of a maid, aye!"
Newcastle sighed.
"...I'll do my best."
Yuuki laughed.
With Belfast leading the Royal Maids and the number of capable maids continuing to grow, GDI's household staff was slowly becoming a force of its own.
And judging from Glasgow's enthusiasm, Yuuki suspected the newest addition to the maid squad would be anything but quiet.
Belfast then gently pushed another maid toward the front.
Edinburgh.
She was quite tall, with a slender figure and medium bust. Long light-purple hair flowed down her back, with two braided locks framing her face. A brooched ribbon decorated one side of her hair, while round glasses rested over her purple eyes.
Her maid uniform was slightly different from the others—a sleeveless, thigh-length maid dress with ruffled edges and a white apron. Black arm sleeves with white cuffs covered her arms, while black gloves decorated with two yellow bands completed the upper half of her outfit. White high socks with two blue lines and black ladies' shoes finished the ensemble.
Edinburgh stepped forward.
"Ah... umm..."
She immediately looked nervous.
"Edin... posture."
Belfast's voice came from beside her.
"Yes!"
Edinburgh quickly straightened herself.
Yuuki looked between the two sisters.
"Are you sure you're the younger sister?"
Belfast nodded calmly.
"I am, Master. Edin is my clumsy older sister, after all."
"Bel!"
Edinburgh puffed out her cheeks.
"This is my turn, ye might say!"
She straightened proudly.
"I am her older sister, Edinburgh! In a sense, I am the most accomplished light cruiser!"
Belfast could only sigh.
Yuuki smiled.
"Oh..."
Edinburgh placed a hand against her chest and continued with renewed confidence.
"I am the lead ship of the Edinburgh class of the Royal Navy. Sometimes, it is stressful having an overly capable little sister like Bel..."
She glanced toward Belfast.
"I took part in the pursuit of Bismarck and Scharnhorst, as well as many patrol missions across the Atlantic, North Sea, and Mediterranean."
Her expression softened.
"In the end, I sank with all my gold because of Iron Blood torpedoes..."
She quickly brightened again.
"Anyway, thank you for finding and saving Bel! I owe you for saving her life."
Yuuki smiled.
"Well, she offered herself to become my personal maid, and my secretary up there appointed her directly."
He glanced toward Edinburgh.
"Wait... gold?"
Belfast's expression immediately became slightly awkward.
"Bel mentioned something about her gold-loving sister, Edinburgh."
Yuuki looked back at the purple-haired maid.
"Nice to finally meet you face-to-face."
Edinburgh adjusted her glasses.
"Ah, yes... Master. I am not gold-loving."
She paused.
"I simply love gold for being... gold."
Yuuki stared at her.
"Like Neon prefers firepower and guns."
He chuckled.
"I just hope you don't turn your room into a into a vault."
Edinburgh looked genuinely offended by the suggestion.
"No such thing, Master."
She then added proudly,
"Besides, gold is a rather rare metal."
"So you didn't want gold to become rich?"
Yuuki raised an eyebrow.
"You just like it?"
"Yes."
Edinburgh nodded.
"I used to save gold for Bel and me, so we'd have a better future."
Her expression became quieter.
"But I lost it all years ago."
Yuuki's expression softened.
"Hmm... If you happened to find gold somewhere, what would you do?"
Edinburgh thought about it.
"But gold is really rare..."
She adjusted her glasses.
"Personally... I would simply keep it."
"Not for riches?"
"No?"
She looked genuinely confused by the question.
"According to Bel, we're paid handsomely by GDI, so money isn't really an issue."
Belfast nodded.
Edinburgh continued.
"Back then, I saved a lot of gold so Bel and I would have something for a rainy day. But I lost all my savings during the Siren base attack fifteen years ago."
She looked down.
"I doubt they'll still be there anymore."
Yuuki frowned slightly.
"How much did you lose?"
"Around five kilograms, I think."
She sighed.
"All the treasures of the Royal Navy were lost that night. I thought I could use them to support us through the years, but..."
Her voice softened.
"In the end, it meant nothing when I lost everything else."
She gave a small smile.
"So even if I found gold now\... I'd just collect it because I like it."
Yuuki slowly looked toward Belfast.
Belfast merely shrugged.
Yuuki considered Edinburgh for a moment.
Then he reached into his inventory.
A solid gold bar suddenly appeared in his hand.
He held it out toward her.
"Here."
Edinburgh froze.
"Master..."
Her eyes widened behind her glasses.
"That's... that's..."
The surrounding Shipgirls also stared.
Even some of the Royal Maids looked stunned.
Yuuki held the bar out casually.
"A gold bar?"
He nodded.
"Yup."
Edinburgh stared at the five-kilogram bar in disbelief.
"Master..."
Her hands trembled slightly as she slowly accepted it.
"This is... five kilograms of gold."
Yuuki smiled.
"Consider it a gift."
Edinburgh looked down at the gold bar, then back at Yuuki.
For once, the supposedly clumsy older sister of Belfast had absolutely no words.
Belfast covered a smile with one hand.
"Well... I suppose Master has discovered the quickest way to silence my sister."
Edinburgh immediately hugged the gold bar protectively.
"Bel... this is different."
Yuuki laughed.
"I figured it would make you happy."
Edinburgh's eyes shimmered behind her glasses.
"It does, Master."
She held the gold close.
"Thank you."
For Edinburgh, it wasn't merely five kilograms of gold.
It was a reminder that she no longer needed to worry about a rainy day.
She had a home now.
A family.
And a master who apparently had no idea how casually he could make a gold-loving maid's entire day.
"Oh, the sly snake can casually give away that kind of wealth?"
Duke of York's voice came from nearby.
The other Shipgirls and Nikkes were equally amazed. A solid gold bar was already an extraordinary gift, but gold was especially valuable in their world. The Sirens had been harvesting it extensively to fund their domination, making naturally obtainable gold one of the rarest and most coveted metals left.
Yuuki glanced at the gold bar in Edinburgh's hands.
"It's actually an interesting story. I'll keep it short."
That immediately caught everyone's attention.
The Shipgirls and Nikkes knew by now that whenever Yuuki started telling stories about his past, things tended to become surprisingly entertaining.
Yuuki leaned back slightly.
"I found a lot of this stuff during Operation Dead Money in one of my previous worlds."
"Dead Money?" Anis asked.
"Yeah. I explored an abandoned, irradiated hotel and casino called the Sierra Madre. It was located on an island, and I went there by myself."
The gathering became quieter.
"The story behind the place was pretty complicated. There was a billionaire named Sinclair who built the Sierra Madre as both a fortress and a casino for his wife, a famous singer named Vera Keyes."
Edinburgh listened intently, still holding her gold bar.
"Vera, however, had a history with someone else. That person wanted Sinclair's wealth and planned to use Vera to get to it, blackmailing her into cooperating."
Yuuki paused.
"But Vera eventually came clean to her husband."
His expression became thoughtful.
"So Sinclair designed a trap for the person who wanted his fortune. If Vera was the one who discovered it, he intended for the treasure to become hers."
He shook his head.
"Unfortunately, the entire thing was also designed to trap her, despite the fact that she'd confessed everything."
"That sounds rather cruel," Howe murmured.
"It was."
Yuuki continued.
"Sinclair wasn't exactly a trusting man. He was paranoid about being betrayed or killed, so he prepared for practically every possibility."
He paused.
"Then the Second World War began."
The Shipgirls listened closely.
"During the opening of the second great war between the Allies and the Soviets, the Soviets launched a nuclear weapon near the island to prevent it from being used as a staging area."
Several Shipgirls stiffened at the mention of a nuclear strike.
"The blast trapped Vera inside the hotel while the security systems began massacring the guests."
Yuuki's voice became quieter.
"Sinclair died too."
For a moment, nobody spoke.
"Wow\..." Anis finally said.
She shook her head.
"That's some story, Commander."
Yuuki nodded.
"Yeah. And that's only the beginning."
Neon leaned forward.
"So how did you get the gold?"
Yuuki smiled.
"That's where it gets interesting."
He continued.
"The Sierra Madre had an emergency broadcast system. But there was a malfunction."
He paused.
"The Gala Event's broadcast had been routed through the emergency announcement system because they were trying to save money. Instead of transmitting a rescue signal, the system accidentally broadcast the advertisement for the casino's grand opening."
Neon frowned.
"Seriously?"
"Seriously."
Yuuki chuckled.
"And the promoter behind that broadcast was Vera."
He looked around the room.
"For more than two centuries, Vera's voice continued to act as bait. Not for the rescue Sinclair had intended, but for treasure hunters."
His expression became amused.
"The broadcast kept luring people toward the Sierra Madre, promising them a place where they could begin again."
Yuuki shrugged.
"So, while I was flying around back then, I picked up the broadcast and decided to investigate the island. I mean, the whole world goes to crap and you heard an opening recording about a hotel? Why not?"
The Shipgirls exchanged looks.
"Of course you did," Belfast muttered.
Yuuki ignored the comment.
"The island had been poisoned by the nuclear strike, but the Sierra Madre had some fascinating technology. One of the most interesting systems was its holographic security network."
He raised a finger.
"Imagine an army of holograms that you can't simply shoot."
Neon immediately looked intrigued.
"But holograms can't actually hurt you."
Yuuki looked at her.
"These ones could."
Neon's eyes widened.
"Oh."
"They were capable of killing people."
Yuuki reached into his inventory.
"And I managed to get my hands on the technology behind them. Using it to create my own Wonder Weapon."
A weapon materialized in his hands.
It resembled a modernized China Lake-style grenade launcher, but it had been heavily modified. An unusual generator was mounted along its frame, connected to an enhanced scope and a custom barrel assembly.
Neon's eyes practically lit up.
"You created a wonder weapon?!"
Yuuki grinned.
"Something like that."
He held the weapon up.
"After tinkering with the various technologies I found on the island, I developed this. The original Holorifle was one of the technologies I encountered, and I improved it more than once."
He tapped the weapon.
"I eventually produced multiple models with varying levels of performance, along with custom modifications."
He smiled.
"This is the perfected version."
Neon stared at it.
"This is real firepower!"
She leaned closer.
"So it shoots hologram bullets?!"
"More or less."
Yuuki adjusted the weapon slightly as he passed it to Neon.
"It can even disintegrate targets."
Neon's eyes sparkled as she carress the weapon.
"A wonder weapon! First the Ray Gun, that Thundergun and Thundragun. Now, this thing."
"Exactly."
Yuuki then continued his story.
"Anyway, I eventually discovered that Vera's remains were still inside her suite."
The mood became quieter again.
"She was sitting in a chair, still wearing her gala dress."
Yuuki's expression softened.
"Her final moments had been recorded by the hotel's security systems. The holograms patrolling the area—and even the hologram in the villa's fountain—would take her form while playing her final words."
"What did she say?" Newcastle asked softly.
"A plea to Sinclair to let her go when she misunderstood him trapping her in the hotel."
Yuuki paused.
"So I used Vera's recorded voice to get through the security systems and reach the vault."
His smile returned.
"And that's where I found thirty-seven gold bars."
Edinburgh's eyes widened.
"Thirty-seven?"
Yuuki nodded.
"I sold one back in Aqua."
He glanced at Edinburgh.
"And this one... I gave to you."
Edinburgh stared down at the five-kilogram bar in her hands.
Yuuki continued.
"The whole point of the vault was to trap treasure hunters. Once I took the gold, the vault sealed itself and started trying to suffocate me."
Glasgow's expression became concerned.
"And ye escaped how?"
Yuuki shrugged.
"They didn't account for the fact that I had Chrono Armor."
He smiled.
"So I simply teleported back to the front gate and left."
Belfast stared at him.
"That's rather unfair, Master."
Yuuki laughed.
"Haha. Maybe."
He looked around at everyone.
"But I let go of it anyway."
He gestured toward Edinburgh.
"I gave one bar to her."
Then he continued.
"And I sold another to save Avrora and the Nikkes back then. So there was no reason for me to hoard the rest just because it was gold."
Edinburgh looked at the bar again.
Yuuki shrugged.
"Besides, compared to you girls, this thing isn't worth much to me."
Several Shipgirls blinked.
"Gold is valuable," Yuuki continued, "but it's still just a material resource."
He gestured toward the Echo armor technology around the leveled up shipgirls.
"This is worth maybe a quarter of what one of you represents."
He paused.
"The Echo Armor alone is worth far more. If I converted the value of an Echo Suit into gold, you'd probably need more than thirty-seven gold bars to pay for one."
The Shipgirls stared at him.
"So compared to you Shipgirls and Nikkes..."
Yuuki smiled.
"You're worth far more than this."
Edinburgh's expression softened.
"And besides..."
He glanced toward the gold bar.
"Gold is surprisingly easy for me to procure."
Duke of York laughed softly.
"Thus the sly snake casually gifts away treasures that entire nations would covet."
Yuuki shrugged.
"It's just gold."
Edinburgh hugged the bar a little closer.
"To me... it isn't just gold."
Yuuki smiled.
"I know."
For once, he didn't make another joke.
He simply let Edinburgh keep her treasure.
After all, some things weren't valuable because of their price.
Sometimes, they were valuable because of what they meant to the person holding them.
==================
Yuuki looked around the gathering.
There were now so many faces around him—Shipgirls, Nikkes and survivors from worlds that had once stood apart.
He took a breath.
Then, in his usual small but steady voice, he spoke loudly enough for everyone to hear.
"Well... Bismarck, Tirpitz, Georgina, York, Anson, and Howe. Alongside Pallada and Diana."
He smiled.
"I want to extend my welcome to those who arrived earlier, and to all of you who made it here."
His gaze moved across the gathering.
"Including Prinz, Kancolle Akashi, and Asahi."
Kancolle Prinz Eugen gave a small smile while Kancolle Akashi raised a hand excitedly.
Yuuki continued.
"To the new and old members of Belfast's Royal Maids—Sheffield, Gloucester, Manchester, Liverpool, Newcastle, Glasgow, and Edinburgh."
The maids gave their respective nods and curtsies.
"To our new Nikkes—Ludmilla, Tove, Neve, and Alice."
The Northern Nikkes smiled.
"To our new Kancolle members—Kashima, Katori, Mamiya, and Irako."
The newcomers acknowledged him with smiles and bows.
"And, of course... Shoukaku, Zuikaku, Hiryuu, Souryuu, Pennsylvania, Arizona, Centaur, Albion, Mecklenburg, Hindenburg, Friedrich, and Ayanami."
The named Shipgirls responded with smiles, waves, or respectful nods.
"From the Dragon Empery, Ning Hai, Ping Hai, Tai Yuan, Ting An, and Ying Swei."
The Dragon Empery girls nodded proudly.
"And Blücher, Seydlitz, Weser, and Lützow."
The Iron Blood Shipgirls straightened proudly at their names.
Yuuki's gaze then moved toward the Nikkes.
"The Nikkes have grown in number as well."
He smiled.
"Emma, Vesti, Eunhwa, Velvet, Privaty, and Cinderella are now part of our family."
Cinderella placed a hand against her chest with a proud smile.
"And then there's our newest Arcane Shipgirl."
His eyes settled on Irisviel.
"Irisviel."
Irisviel smiled warmly.
Yuuki looked around at everyone once more.
"So... welcome to the Global Defense Initiative."
He paused dramatically.
"The most powerful, advanced, and—"
"Badass faction!"
Neon, San Diego, and Anis shouted together.
Yuuki's eyebrow twitched.
"Hey! That's my line!"
Neon grinned.
"Too late, Commander!"
Sandy threw both hands into the air.
"Ehee! That's definitely my line too!"
Anis laughed.
Yuuki stared at the three of them for several seconds before sighing.
"Well... there's that."
The entire gathering broke into laughter.
Yuuki couldn't help but smile.
"So, welcome, everyone."
For a brief moment, the enormous gathering fell quiet.
Different worlds.
Different factions.
Different histories.
Yet they were all standing together beneath the same banner.
The Diving Eagle.
And for everyone who had lost their homes, their comrades, or even the very meaning of belonging...
This was a new beginning.
=========
Yuuki's expression shifted as he glanced toward the tactical display.
"So, we have a sudden operation coming up."
The room immediately grew more attentive.
"The Eagle Union girls will be going with me."
He turned toward the carriers.
"Illustrious, Kaga, Akagi, Houshou—you'll take over the skies. Prepare a dozen Orca Mark IIIs as backup and provide aerial cover."
The four carriers nodded.
"Yes, Lord Commander," Illustrious replied.
Yuuki then looked toward the two Arcane Shipgirls.
"Kaguya and Iris, prepare to back us up."
Kaguya smiled brightly, her tails swaying behind her.
"Yes, dearest!"
Iris gave a graceful nod.
"Yes, beloved."
Yuuki looked over the rest of the gathered Shipgirls and Nikkes.
"The rest of you will remain on standby. Hopefully, this won't escalate into aggression. I'm confident it won't."
The others nodded.
Yuuki turned toward the group accompanying him: Yorktown, Enterprise, San Diego, Vestal, Eldridge, Laffey, Arizona, and Pennsylvania.
For a moment, he simply looked at them.
Then he smiled.
"Well..."
He gestured toward the tactical display on his mark 86 gauntlet projector.
"Shall we meet the President?"
"Wait, Commander."
Enterprise's voice stopped Yuuki before he could leave.
He turned around.
"When are we expecting the Eagle Union fleet to arrive?"
Yuuki glanced at the tactical display.
"Estimated arrival? Around three hours."
Enterprise nodded slowly.
"Good."
Yuuki raised an eyebrow.
"Good?"
Enterprise folded her arms.
"Then you owe us an explanation."
Yuuki blinked.
"What explanation?"
Enterprise pointed directly at his left arm.
"That."
Everyone's attention immediately shifted toward the Omnitrix, now seamlessly fused with the armor around Yuuki's forearm.
Yuuki stared at it for a moment.
"Uh... can this wait?"
"No."
Enterprise's answer was immediate.
Yuuki sighed.
Yorktown stepped forward with an amused smile.
"Three hours is a long time, Commander. You might as well explain it to everyone."
"Shikikan-sama, you do owe us an explanation," Atago added, her smile making it clear she had no intention of letting him escape.
Several others nodded in agreement.
Yuuki looked around the room.
Enterprise was waiting.
Yorktown was waiting.
Atago was waiting.
And judging from everyone's expressions, the rest of them were waiting too.
He slowly rubbed his forehead.
"Man..."
He glanced toward the Omnitrix.
"This is going to be a long three hours."