Aug 25, 1942
Enterprise Task Force, Indian Ocean
10:00 AM
( Link ) ( https://youtu.be/1MTw_ts7Iyc )
CVN-80 USS Enterprise
Enterprise-80 stood within the Carrier's Combat Information Center (CIC), her gaze fixed on the massive screen displaying the meticulously arranged formation of their fleet.
A Meowfficer, the Carrier's Communications Officer, spoke/meowed. "Ma'am, all ships are in formation." his tone crisp and professional.
"Commence operation," she responded, her voice devoid of warmth.
"Aye, All Ships commence operation. I repeat, all ships commence operation."
The Fleet Carriers of Azur Lane began launching their SBD Dauntless and SB2C Helldiver dive bombers. These Aircraft had undergone a crucial modification the addition of advanced targeting pods mounted on their left wings half a month prior, in anticipation of a major confrontation with the Siren Fleet.
The skies above the Task Force buzzed with the combined drone of propeller-driven and jet aircraft. Azur Lane submarines had positioned themselves strategically closer to the shores of Madagascar, in close proximity to the known Siren Base.
Sea near the Base, Albacore peered through her periscope, and declared, "Alright! Operation commences! All Subs prepare for land attack!"
Rocket Sealed Tube Launchers, a makeshift but effective modification, had been bolted onto the decks of the World War II-era Submarines, granting them a rudimentary land attack capability. The rockets themselves were similar in design and explosive yield to those employed during the brutal island-hopping campaigns of Iwo Jima and Okinawa.
"Roger that," Dace confirmed, maneuvering her submarine into optimal firing position for a land strike.
"Umm... *sobs*... Flasher here...." Flasher's voice trembled over the comms, her fear palpable as she faced her first large-scale operation.
"What is wrong with this newbie?!" Albacore barked impatiently over the comms.
"Sorry..." Flasher whimpered, the sound of her crying audible.
"Leave the newbie alone. This is her first time participating in a large operation," Archerfish interjected, coming to Flasher's defense with a calm tone.
After all the Submarines reached the designated range of their underwater attack, Albacore gave the order. "Okay, all Subs open fire!"
Rockets erupted from the ocean's surface in rapid succession, a chaotic underwater barrage reminiscent of a surface-launched MLRS, though fired from underwater.
The projectiles rained down upon the Siren Base's defenses, striking a significant number of their anti-aircraft cannons. The Sirens had clearly not anticipated a coordinated underwater attack targeting their air defenses.
A pale-skinned child with piercing blue eyes observed the unfolding assault from within the Siren Base, her expression thoughtful. "An underwater attack. I didn't expect you would resort to something so... unconventional, Azur Lane, or should I say, Enterprise."
Back at the chaotic Siren Base
Siren Minions scrambled frantically to rally their defenses. Surviving anti-aircraft cannons blazed to intercept the incoming rocket barrage. While the initial damage to the Siren Base was relatively minimal, the primary targets – the cleverly camouflaged towers that concealed the true extent of the base – were either destroyed or rendered inoperable.
As the holographic camouflage flickered and died, Enterprise-80's high-altitude reconnaissance drone pinpointed the remaining key targets and distributed the updated data across the entire Task Force.
Enterprise-80 held her chin, her brow furrowed in contemplation as she studied the drone imagery. "That size... it's even larger than Norfolk Naval Base."
Norfolk Naval Base was the sprawling home port where all of the US Navy's Aircraft Carriers docked for maintenance and repairs. One section of the base alone could accommodate all eleven of the US Navy's current Carriers, still have a remaining space for other vessels.
She squinted at a massive pier that appeared specifically designed to berth a warship exceeding 400 meters in length. But the truly shocking revelation was that this wasn't a solitary pier; there were five such colossal structures.
"That's quite a large pier.... Perhaps they've crammed all their large ships together? Unlikely. This can only mean one thing... Orochi?" she murmured, her gaze fixed on the immense pier displayed on the screen.
The Meowfficer CO reported, "Ma'am, all aircraft have reached their designated target areas."
"Good. Relay their specific intended targets to them," she responded, her tone crisp and efficient.
After issuing the command, her attention shifted to the holographic projection table, a small figure stood before her. "Cortana."
"Yes, Ma'am?" the AI responded instantly.
"I want you to thoroughly assess these piers," she instructed, pointing to the holographic representation. "I need to know if these structures are designed to accommodate large Siren ships... like Orochi."
Cortana's holographic figure tilted its head slightly in acknowledgment. "A comprehensive assessment will require some time, Ma'am, as we currently lack definitive evidence beyond the visual data of the piers themselves to conclusively determine if they house such large vessels."
"Understood. Take your time then," Enterprise-80 replied, turning her attention back to the ongoing bombing runs conducted by her aircraft and Azur Lane planes.
High-Velocity Aircraft Rockets (HVARs) rained down on the static targets within the Siren Base. Small arms fire and higher-caliber weaponry, standard for human infantry engagements, opened up against the attacking planes.
F/A-18 Super Hornets, armed with precision-guided JDAM Bombs, targeted the most heavily protected and strategically valuable structures deep within the base's layered defenses.
Command and Control towers, vital radar installations, and runways were all primary targets. Siren planes scrambled into the air to intercept the attackers, but their efforts proved futile. They were swiftly engaged and shot down by the superior F/A-18 Super Hornets and F-35B Lightnings operating at ranges far beyond their visual capabilities.
The entire aerial engagement unfolded like a classic World War II bombing raid against an enemy stronghold, albeit with a distinct modern and alien twist. The bizarre architecture of the Siren base, combined with the advanced technology of the attacking planes, made it clear that this was no ordinary historical battle.
F4U Corsairs armed with HVLAR Rockets were vaporized by concentrated fire from laser-based anti-aircraft cannons. SBD Dauntlesses, carrying 1,000-pound Paveway laser-guided bombs, targeted other heavily fortified anti-air installations.
BGM-109 Tomahawk Cruise Missiles slammed into the Siren Base, devastating key infrastructure and significantly weakening the base's overall defensive capabilities.
Dreamworld Avatar Strategist (Executer-Class Carrier) launched its own complement of advanced Siren planes in a desperate attempt to regain air superiority over the Siren Base's airspace.
A furious storm of bullets and Missiles filled the sky as the two opposing aircraft clashed. The modern aircraft, with their superior technology and the vast databanks of experienced pilot profiles integrated into their systems, quickly established dominance over the battlefield.
Close-quarters air-to-air combat was largely left to the Azur Lane planes, as bullets whizzed past their wings and the sleek, alien forms of the Siren fighters.
Despite possessing a numerical advantage in this particular engagement, the Siren planes were systematically swatted from the sky by the far more advanced modern fighters, their maneuvers clumsy and predictable in comparison.
Azur Lane Planes expertly employed the Thatch Weave, a cooperative aerial combat maneuver, to effectively counter the more agile Siren fighters. One aircraft would act as bait, drawing the enemy onto its tail, while its wingman would swoop in from behind to deliver a decisive burst of fire. This coordinated technique proved highly effective against the numerically superior Siren planes.
"Alright, Ladies, prepare for combat!" Lucas's voice boomed over the comms.
"Right!" came the unified response from the Clevelands.
The Cleveland Sisters, clad in their infantry gear and with their ship riggings deployed, formed a tight battle line behind Lucas, their expressions determined.
"This is... weird.... I'm not detecting any Siren ships in the immediate vicinity," Birmingham exclaimed, her sensors showing a clear area.
"Yeah.... This is totally strange," Cleveland agreed, her own readings confirming Birmingham's.
"Keep your eyes peeled and your guard up... we don't know when the enemy might pop out," Lucas cautioned, his onboard Aegis Combat System on high alert for the telltale energy signature of a Siren portal opening.
"Yes, Sir."
Lucas was lost in thought, a knot of unease tightening in his gut. Something about the situation felt wrong. I 'No response from the Sirens? And no Siren ships visible at the base...'
~Flashback at Enterprise-80 at the Briefing Room~
"Listen up."
The briefing room fell silent as Enterprise-80 began to speak, her presence radiating a palpable intensity. Everyone tensed, sensing the gravity of the situation she was about to outline.
"What you are looking at is a detailed radar map of the Siren Base in Madagascar. Thanks to advanced radar mapping, we have a fairly accurate assessment of the base's overall size and the locations of its major air defense installations."
She pointed to the highlighted anti-air emplacements on the holographic map.
One of the Commanders raised a hand. "Yes, what is your question?" Enterprise-80 prompted.
"If we dedicate our air power to achieving air superiority over the Siren Base, won't that leave us critically short of aircraft to effectively engage any Siren ships we encounter?"
"Yes. We will be at a significant disadvantage in terms of aircraft if we focus all our aerial assets on a single Siren Base... that's precisely why we need to neutralize key high-value targets within the base first, before we directly engage any Siren ships."
Another Commander raised their hand. "What if this is a trap?"
"Is it not obvious?" she countered, a wry smile playing on her lips. A collective murmur rippled through the room as everyone exchanged knowing glances, the same thought having crossed their minds.
"I think everyone here recognizes that this is likely a trap... the base is bait, designed to draw our aircraft into a concentrated attack... If all our planes are focused on this single base, they will undoubtedly attack us from behind, as they always do."
The same Commander who had spoken twice before raised their hand yet again. "Then why are we walking into it?"
Enterprise-80's smirk widened. "Simple... we let them know that we are falling for it." She said, as if there's something in her pocket that could completely turn the tables on the Siren's carefully laid plan.
Lucas, sitting at the back of the Briefing Room beside the assembled Shipgirls, muttered to himself, a grim understanding dawning on his face. "We're gonna nuke our way out of this, aren't we."
~Flashback ends~
"No plan survives first contact with the enemy," he murmured, a grim acknowledgment of the unpredictable nature of warfare.
"Seen anything?" JS Maya's voice crackled over the comms.
"Negative. No enemy in sight yet," Lucas radioed back.
Atago, with her characteristic lack of tactical awareness, barged into the conversation. "Is there any 'Love you' at the end of that report?"
JS Maya let out a frustrated shriek. Lucas, on his end of the comms, wore a distinctly unimpressed expression. The Cleveland Sisters behind him tried to stifle their giggles, but their amusement was betrayed by their shared comms channel.
"Atago, concentrate on your mission," he said, a sharp edge of irritation in his voice.
"~Hai-Hai," Atago replied childishly, her tone flippant.
...
Essex-12 and the Light Carriers
The well deck of LHA-12 USS Essex was rapidly flooding, as Amphibious Combat Vehicles (ACVs) and Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCACs) prepared for an amphibious assault on the shores of Madagascar, near the Siren Base.
A green light illuminated the interior of the well deck, signaling the go-ahead. LCACs gracefully hovered out of the flooded compartment, speeding towards the designated beachhead. Inside the LCACs were M10A2 Booker MPF and M4 Sherman Medium-Tanks, ready to spearhead the ground assault.
Once all the LCACs had cleared the well deck, the ACVs began their own deployment, swimming out onto the surface of the ocean at a respectable speed of 15 knots.
On the flight deck above, F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters were armed with air-to-air missiles and equipped with external gun pods. AH-64 Apache, the USMC variant, bristled with Hydra-70 Rockets and AGM-114 Hellfire Anti-Tank Missiles, ready to provide crucial Close Air Support for the advancing Ground Troops.
Princeton, Casablanca, Bogue, Long Island, Wasp, San Jacinto, and Bini-bining Bataan launched their own complement of fighter aircraft to escort the amphibious assault force racing towards the beachhead. F4U Corsairs, armed with HVAR Rockets, soared into the sky, their powerful engines roaring.
"All planes are airborne," Wasp radioed, informing one of the F-35Bs acting as an Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) for the Light Carrier group.
Essex-12 then activated her ship rigging, preparing to personally accompany the amphibious assault team heading towards the beach landing.
"Let's go, ladies," she declared, a hint of reckless fun and excitement in her voice. Her designated escort, however, seemed less enthusiastic.
"Why do we have to accompany them? We're perfectly safe here," Long Island objected, her voice laced with apprehension at the prospect of heading ashore.
"One more complaint, and I am going to run after this operation!" Essex-12 snapped, her patience wearing thin at her comrade's blatant lack of enthusiasm.
This particular decision, driven by Essex-12's impulsive nature, was likely to plunge them into a considerable amount of trouble – a significant amount of trouble. It wasn't so much foreshadowing as it was an almost predictable consequence of her leadership style.
"Umm... isn't that a bit too harsh of a punishment?" Bataan ventured hesitantly.
"Meh. Getting your ass cheeks clapped by a tsinelas is way harsher than that," Essex-12 retorted, playfully nudging Bataan in the side with her elbow.
The other Light Carriers tilted their heads in confusion, failing to grasp the specific cultural reference. Bataan, however, winced, fully understanding the painful imagery.
-more Asian jokes up ahead-
"Waaaahhhhhhhh!"
Long Island let out a dramatic cry, sounding like a rage-quitting gamer. But before she could launch into a full-blown theatrical display, Essex-12 grabbed her firmly by the arm. "And... charge! Full speed ahead!"
The other Light Carriers reluctantly followed suit, trailing behind their impulsive Flagship – or rather, the individual currently in charge of their ragtag group. Little did they realize they were about to experience leadership characterized by an almost unimaginable level of inexperience and questionable decision-making.
The assembled Battleships formed a formidable battle line, preparing for a devastating naval bombardment of the heavily fortified defenses surrounding the designated landing zone. The Battleships unleashed a thunderous barrage of shells at the Siren coastal batteries.
Siren coastal batteries swiveled to return fire, their alien weaponry spitting glowing projectiles. An E-2D Hawkeye AWACS Aircraft, loitering high above, guided the Battleship's guns with pinpoint accuracy via secure data and radio links. The massive shells impacted their designated targets with an impressive 90% hit rate, pulverizing Siren emplacements.
The 16-inch caliber guns of the most powerful Battleships reached out to the furthest targets with their high velocity and accurate fire control radar systems of that time. Their shells possessed significantly more destructive power than those fired by the 14 and 15-inch gun-equipped Battleships.
Cmdr. Elena, on the bridge of USS New Jersey, received a critical transmission from one of the AWACS Aircraft orbiting above.
"Siren Command Center located. Coordinate: ********."
"Copy that," she acknowledged. She lowered the radio handset and issued a direct order. "New Jersey, prepare a Tomahawk Strike on Siren Command Center. Coordinate: ********."
"Roger that, Commander!" New Jersey responded with palpable excitement, this being her first opportunity to fire a Tomahawk Missile in actual combat.
One of the MK-13 Armored Box Launchers (MK-13 ABL) swung open revealing the missile within, other launcher stood poised at a 45-degree firing angle.
The seal of one of the launch cells ruptured as a BGM-109 Tomahawk Cruise Missile was forcefully ejected. A plume of smoke billowed from the end of the launcher, yeeting a million-dollar "flying pipe bomb with wings" skywards.
William had been unable to replicate the complex MK-13 ABL System, so he had opted for a similar approach to the US Army's ground-based Tomahawk launchers.
After its launch, the Tomahawk missile skimmed low over the ocean's surface, effectively bypassing the higher-altitude air defenses as it sped towards its target.
Sirens within the Command Post Building scrambled in panicked disarray as the "flying pipe bomb with wings" rapidly approached their location. Lacking any air defense systems capable of effectively intercepting a cruise missile at such low altitudes, the Siren minions fled their Command Center like startled chickens.
The AWACS Aircraft loitering above radioed in a laconic report. "Target destroyed."
...
Lafayette's ASW Division
Lafayette, and Friends along with the ever-vigilant Paladin, sailed along, conducting Anti-Submarine Warfare operations with his designated group. Saint Louis, her armor gleaming under the sun, her polearm appearing sharp and powerfully elegant with its tip pointing skyward, stood ready.
Trailing along, Langley's right eyebrow twitched almost imperceptibly, her gaze fixed on the close proximity of the two individuals she was tasked with supervising – an Escort Carrier and their appointed supervisor at the two.
She's currently overseeing Lafayette and Laffey-459 close together, along with the Paladin who stood beside him, shielding him with the unwavering focus one might reserve for a high-value target in a shooting game.
Back at Azur Lane Base, he's literally dunking at the Bozo's at collecting Medals and Titles with a remarkable lack of reliance on RNGesus. And with the numerous medals adorning his left chest from previous engagements. Yo boi Lafayette has more "bling-blings" than many of the Commanders at the Base.
"Sir Lafayette, is everything alright?" Saint Louis inquired, her keen senses picking up on his subtle unease. Like a steadfast Knight on watch, her awareness was heightened, anticipating any potential threat.
"No-Nope, just my arm feels like it's about to fall off. Nothing to worry about," he replied, his voice betraying a hint of distress.
Lafayette could feel his hand growing numb, the relentless grip of Laffey-459 tightening with each passing moment, as if physically tethering him to her presence. Her grip intensified like the slow build-up of tension before a jump scare in a horror movie.
"As you say so... Sir Lafayette," she responded, smoothly reverting to her role as armed escort, her vigilance unwavering.
Langley muttered under her breath, her frustration evident. "Could this escort mission possibly get any worse?" A sharp edge of anger laced her tone.
"Umm.... You'll get used to it, Miss Langley," Javelin offered with a nervous smile, noticing a prominent vein throbbing on the midget teacher's forehead.
"Enough with this chit-chat," Charles Ausburne interjected, standing with arms folded, her expression resolute. "We've got a job to do. The Beaver Squad stood ready."
She spoke with the quiet confidence of a seasoned leader, the Beaver Squad arrayed behind her in a disciplined formation.
"Alright, same formation as always," Lafayette commanded, his demeanor shifting to that of a focused leader. "Unicorn and Langley, provide Air Support."
"Beaver Squad, ready your ASW. I've detected a couple of Siren Submarines in the area."
"You can count on us, Beavers," Charles Ausburne affirmed.
Lafayette nodded. "Alright, that leaves Javelin, Hammann..."
Hammann stood with her arms crossed, stubbornly suppressing her usual 'Humph' of displeasure. She was clearly not having an enjoyable time witnessing Laffey-459's persistent clinginess.
Lafayette subtly acknowledged her tsundere aura and brushed it aside. He turned his attention to the Paladin and his appointed babysitter by the Church. "Saint Louis, you're with me and Laffey."
Saint Louis placed her right hand over her left chest in a formal gesture. "As you ordered, Sir Lafayette."
"Ayanami, Yuudachi, Yukikaze—"
"It's Yukikaze-sama the Great!" Yukikaze interjected with her characteristic grandiosity, her right arm rested on her puffed chest.
"Okay. Yukikaze-sama the Great, Shigure, Laffey, and Me will eliminate the Surface Threats. Anyone got it?"
Everyone nodded, acknowledging his instructions loud and clear. "Okay.... Move out."
After some routine ASW operations and the ongoing... miscommunication and misunderstanding antics, Lafayette and Friends had to brace themselves as the passage of time suggested that a larger engagement was imminent.
Lafayette's Aegis Combat System suddenly blared an urgent alarm, detecting a high radio frequency. The onboard AI swiftly correlated the radar signature with that of a Siren Portal opening.
"Everyone! Prepare for Surface Combat!" he warned them over the comms, his voice sharp with urgency.
But his warning proved tragically premature. Multiple purple portals ripped open simultaneously directly in front of them, disgorging a numerically superior Siren Ships. Simultaneously, other Siren Ships plummeted from the sky, crashing into the water with tremendous splashes.
Lafayette and his group had to execute evasive maneuvers to avoid the falling SirenShips. Lafayette was taken aback by the apparent sturdiness of the Siren ships, surviving such a high-velocity impact without significant hull damage.
"Shit! We're fucked," he muttered, reacting to the sudden appearance of the overwhelming Siren fleet. "Surface threat formation! Now!" he barked, ordering his Division into an aggressive maneuver to avoid being hit.
Saint Louis moved swiftly to the forefront, positioning herself to shield Lafayette with her main guns and the formidable blade of her polearm, the banner of Iris Libre fluttering proudly above her. "Sir Lafayette, behind me, now!"
She gripped her polearm tightly as Lafayette and the ever-present Laffey-459 positioned themselves behind her as ordered.
'I cannot allow any of these Sirens to reach Sir Lafayette. It is my duty as his Knight. Archbishop Richelieu entrusted me with the task of protecting him, and I shall fulfill my servitude completely.' She vowed silently, facing the emerging enemy with unwavering resolve.
"Finally you showed up! I, Yukikaze the Great, will defeat you—"
Before Yukikaze could complete her boastful declaration, her rigging, where her torpedo launchers were mounted, was struck by a searing Plasma Cannon blast, the resulting explosion knocking her unconscious.
"Yukikaze!!!!!!!" Everyone yelled her name in alarm, but thankfully, she remained afloat, unconscious but not sinking.
Lafayette turned his attention to the attacker, his gaze lifting to identify the source of the devastating attack. He saw the same Elite Siren with the distinctive shark-like rigging.
"Omitter," he muttered, recognizing the dangerous foe.
"HAHAHA. Miss me, Little Boy?" Omitter taunted, standing triumphantly at the bow of one of the lead Siren ships.
"You." Saint Louis declared her voice boomed, the tip of her blade pointe at her.
~Up Above~
The AWACS Aircraft sounded a frantic alarm as its advanced radar dome detected a rapidly increasing number of Siren ships materializing seemingly out of thin air, quickly surrounding the entire Azur Lane Task Force.
"Why aren't we launching more planes?! The enemy has revealed themselves!" Queen Elizabeth demanded over the comms, expecting a massive wave of counterattacking aircraft.
"Something is... off.... I am not going to send my planes into the air," Enterprise-80 stated firmly over the comms, a note of deep unease in her voice.
"What do you mean by that? Are you expecting someone else?" Enterprise-6 asked, a growing sense of worry coloring her tone as she detected the subtle distress in Enterprise-80's voice.
"This whole operation feels... too easy.... I have a bad feeling that these Siren ships are just a bait, a diversion to draw our surface fleet into a vulnerable position," she explained, her eyes fixed on the unfolding chaos displayed on the monitor screen.
"Who are you expecting to show up?" Enterprise-6 pressed, her anxiety mounting as Enterprise-80's uncharacteristic silence hung heavy in the air.
Queen Elizabeth's voice crackled with impatience over the comms. "We need to attack now!"
Warspite gently rested a hand on the Queen's shoulder, her expression grave. "Your Majesty, I share the same unsettling feeling that this is a trap."
...
JS Maya's Division
JS Maya and the remaining Sakura Empire Cruisers, both heavy and light, skillfully evaded the relentless barrage of shells raining down from the Siren ships that had suddenly appeared in their vicinity.
JS Maya, a capable and respected leader, served as the Flagship of this division, comprised of Sakura Empire Cruisers deemed fit for combat in this crucial operation. Sakura Empire Shipgirls were notoriously selective about their command, harboring a deep-seated reluctance to be led by anyone within Azur Lane. Thus, Enterprise-80 had strategically placed JS Maya as their Flagship to maintain cohesion and effective command.
SBD Dauntlesses and Sakura Empire Dive Bombers plunged from the sky in a coordinated aerial attack, their bombs finding purchase on the lightly armored decks of the Siren destroyers.
The Sakura Empire Cruisers unleashed a devastating full broadside, their main guns tearing gaping holes in the hulls of the advancing Siren ships. JS Maya and the nimble "Doggos" (Takao Sisters) weaved through the chaos, their katana blades flashing as they slashed at the Siren ships' main cannons, disabling their primary firepower.
"Shit, they're trying to separate us from the main force," Takao observed grimly, noticing the telltale signs of encirclement.
JS Maya remained outwardly calm, unsurprised by this development. It had been explicitly outlined in the pre-battle briefing. Her agreement to carry the nuclear-armed Tomahawk was contingent on precisely this type of dire situation.
"Let's cut an opening," she ordered, her voice firm and decisive, directing the others to slash and blast their way out of the encroaching encirclement.
"Hai!" came the unified response, filled with determination.
...
Lucas and the Bro's
Lucas and the Cleveland Sisters found themselves surrounded by a significant number of Siren ships – a tactical blunder of epic proportions on the part of the enemy.
"Umm.... Sir, we're surrounded," Cleveland radioed, her voice tinged with concern.
"Hah, those poor bastards," Lucas chuckled darkly.
"Wait! What??? What are you saying, sir? We're totally surrounded!" she exclaimed, her voice rising in panic.
"It means we can shoot in any general direction without hesitation," Lucas replied nonchalantly, switching his grip from his M27 IAR Rifle to his more substantial M249 SAW light machine gun.
"Ladies, switch to your LMGs (Light Machineguns). We're gonna blast our way out of here, United States Marine Corps style!" He declared with glee.
"You heard him!" Columbia declared, hefting an M72 LAW (Light Anti-Tank Weapon). With a practiced motion, she extended the launcher, shouldered it, aligned the sights, and fired.
The 66mm High-Explosive Anti-Tank rocket seemingly transmuted mid-flight into a far more potent Naval Strike Missile, its warhead significantly enhanced. The bow of the nearest Siren Destroyer was violently severed by the impact, engulfed in a fiery explosion.
The other Cleveland Sisters swiftly followed suit, exchanging their rifles for their M249 SAWs, Maximize Democracy. Like true Marines, they unleashed a torrent of lead in every direction, their confidence unwavering. They had more than enough ammunition to democratize every single Siren in their vicinity.
...
Laffey's Division
One Siren ship was reduced to shredded cardboard as a relentless hail of bullets, that cost $100,000.00 per democracy in mere seconds, leaving the Siren Ship hull behind a mangled wreck with flickering RGB lighting.
Having thoroughly "democratized" one Siren ship, Laffey-200 smoothly pivoted the six rotating barrels of her M134 Minigun towards the next unfortunate target. The result was predictably the same.
The Sirens' ill-conceived plan of overwhelming her with sheer numbers proved to be a catastrophic miscalculation. Charging a heavily armed bunny girl with a high-speed, six-barreled instrument of freedom was arguably more foolish than threatening the United States with nuclear weapons.
Sobriety and common sense had long since departed the tactical planning sessions of the Siren leadership. A continuous stream of high-velocity rounds ripped through the Siren ships as effortlessly as a lawnmower through tall grass (with the 'GR' conspicuously absent at the Grass).
The concept of unlimited, readily available "un-HealthCare" was currently being administered in the most unapologetically American way imaginable. One could practically sit back with popcorn and watch the entire spectacle unfold.
Baltimore, Bremerton, and the other Heavy Cruisers watched in stunned disbelief as Laffey-200 systematically decimated the entire Siren flotilla, her actions resembling a particularly aggressive and bullet-intensive form of American-style deforestation.
Everyone present could vividly imagine the scene playing out in their minds: Laffey-200 standing atop a growing mountain of mangled Siren corpses, the Star-Spangled Banner blasting in the background accompanied by the screech of a majestic Bald Eagle.
The Siren (bitches) with their seemingly endless supply of identical, copy-pasted ships were being thoroughly democratized by a seemingly innocent Bunny Girl in a white dress, her form swaying gently in the Indian Ocean breeze as she wielded her M134 Minigun with terrifying efficiency.
DDG-200 USS Laffey, with its substantial weight and tonnage of 13,500 tons, comparable to a Heavy Cruiser in both displacement and length, served as the Flagship of the Eagle Union Cruiser Force.
"Is she even normal?!" Wichita exclaimed in bewildered surprise, witnessing this display of American "un-HealthCare" in action for the first time.
"You'll get used to it," both Bremerton and Baltimore replied in perfect synchronization, their expressions a mixture of awe and weary resignation.
"No wonder why the Commanders are afraid of her," New Orleans muttered, a shiver running down her spine.
Astoria, Quincy, and Vincennes nodded in solemn agreement.
Bremerton let out a hearty laugh. "HAHAHA. She turned a bar into a wrestling arena that one time a bunch of rookie Commanders got a little too touchy with her."
"That really happened?" Quincy asked, her eyes wide with disbelief.
"Well... yeah..." Baltimore said, a slight tremor in her voice as she tried to suppress the memory of the chaotic brawl that could have easily ended the careers of those foolish Commanders.
...
Siren Dimension
A pale-haired with a striking blue strand of hair figure, watched the carnage unfolding on the holographic screen, the numerical Siren fleet being obliterated at an alarming rate.
These standard Siren ships were not considered a significant threat, more of a minor annoyance. The Modern Kansens, however, were proving to be like participants at a shooting range with an inexhaustible supply of ammunition.
"I think it's time for us to make our own move," the small, childlike figure declared, her blue eyes gleaming with a cold intensity.
"Yes, Zero. Your order is my command," a voice replied instantly.
An Arbiter with stark white hair, her white dress trimmed with a subtle purple hue at the edges. Her rigging consisted of a single, powerful mount housing twin Plasma Cannons.
Directly behind her stood other Arbiters, with distinct and formidable riggings. One resembled a colossal Jellyfish, its bell-like structure hovering above her head, with numerous wire-like tentacles dangling below. Triple-gun turrets were mounted on either side of her.
The Arbiter to the right radiated a soft blue light, a crown shaped like intricate towers adorning her head. Her rigging resembled a towering structure, a conduit for some unknown form of potent energy.
Zero snapped her fingers, and a series of purple portals materialized directly beside the three Arbiters. As the portals shimmered into existence, she spoke, her voice carrying an unusual weight of authority despite her youthful appearance.
"Arbiter: Lover VI, Temperance XIV, Tower XVI... do not underestimate them.... The defeat of Arbiter: Empress III is a lesson that you three should keep firmly in mind. Do you understand?"
"Yes, Ma'am," they responded in unison, their voices devoid of emotion.
"Good... now leave."
As Zero uttered these words, all three Arbiters were enveloped by the swirling purple energy of the portals and instantly teleported them to the battlefield.
Zero then turned her attention back to the holographic screen, her gaze fixed on the ongoing battle with a chilling anticipation. She fully expected the Modern Kansens to exhaust their seemingly limitless ammunition on the expendable Siren fleet, acting as mere target decoys.
'I will win this time... Code-G.' she muttered to herself, a hint of manic determination in her voice.
...
CVN-80 USS Enterprise
Cortana's holographic form shimmered as she completed her analysis of the data, cross-referencing the pier schematics with the captured documents detailing Orochi's docking facilities at the Sakura Empire's dockyard.
"Ma'am," she addressed Enterprise-80, her digital voice clear and concise, "my analysis is complete."
"And what does your analysis reveal?" Enterprise-80 asked, her expression betraying a hint of the apprehension she felt regarding the potential findings.
"That pier is not designed to accommodate a cluster of standard Siren ships; it was specifically constructed to berth a ship exceeding 400 meters in length. Combined with the data from the captured documents detailing the dry dock where Orochi is berthed, that pier is designed to accommodate five to six Orochi-equivalent vessels."
A collective gasp rippled through the CIC at this startling revelation. Everyone had initially assumed that the massive 400+ meter radar return was simply a large group of Siren ships clustered together at a single pier.
"Wait! There's another Orochi?! Are you shitting me!" Queen Elizabeth barked, her outburst surprisingly undignified for the Royal Navy's flagship, sounding more like an agitated Chihuahua than a regal lioness.
"Your Majesty, language," Cruiser Belfast gently reminded the Queen, her tone a model of British decorum even amidst the escalating crisis.
A sudden, high-pitched squeaking sound drew their attention within the Supercarrier CIC. A Manjuu Sonar Operator reported that USS Arizona, positioned beneath the Task Force, had detected an unknown object rapidly ascending at an alarming speed of over 60 knots.
"This is USS Arizona, I have detected an unknown object ascending at a rapid speed of over 60 knots. At this velocity, it will reach the surface in approximately half a minute."
Enterprise-80's hand slammed down on a command button. "Intercept it. NOW!"
Arizona's calm voice crackled over the comms. "I'm en route for interception."
"Sound the alarm!" Enterprise-80 ordered one of the Meowfficers, her voice sharp with urgency. The Meowfficer saluted crisply and slammed his paw down on the general alarm button.
*General Quarters, General Quarters! All hands man your battle stations!*
The entire Task Force executed aggressive evasive maneuvers, desperately trying to avoid a collision with the rapidly ascending unknown object.
USS Arizona, rapidly submerged below to intercept, his torpedo tubes were prepared to be loaded with MK-48 Heavyweight Torpedoes.
"Torpedo tube one and two ready," the Torpedo Technician (Manjuu) reported over the internal comms.
Arizona, in the control room, issued the order. "Fire."
With a powerful surge of high-pressure gas, two MK-48 Torpedoes were ejected from their tubes, plunging downwards at a swift 55 knots.
Arizona glanced down at the digital pocket watch displayed on his hand, its numbers counting down the estimated time to impact. The Weapons Officer began the tense countdown aloud.
"Ten... nine... eight... seven... six... five... four... three... two... one... Impact."
The word "Impact" echoed in the control room, followed by a muffled, deep-sea explosion that reverberated through the submarine's hull.
Arizona immediately queried the Sonar Operator, seeking confirmation of the unknown object's fate. "Unknown object status? Is it terminated?"
To the astonishment and growing alarm of everyone in the control room, the sonar readings indicated that the unknown object was still ascending at its original, terrifying speed.
Arizona reacted instantly, grabbing the radio to warn the Task Force above of the imminent danger. "Interception failed! I repeat, interception failed! Unknown object still ascending!"
The Sonar Operator's voice squeaked with panic. "Unknown object will impact us within ten seconds!"
Without hesitation, Arizona activated his rigging. The sleek form of the lone Virginia-class submarine dissolved into a swirling vortex of numerous glowing Wisdom Cubes.
Reduced to a fraction of his normal size and propelled by his quick-thinking activation of his rigging, Arizona narrowly avoided the rapidly ascending object. He risked a fleeting glance at the passing anomaly, his sensors locking onto its unmistakable signature.
Having confirmed its terrifying identity, he immediately reported back to the surface fleet. "Arbiter! Unknown object is an Arbiter!"
The chilling confirmation sent a jolt of adrenaline through the entire Task Force. Every Shipgirl instantly activated their combat riggings. Bunker Hill-76 unleashed a salvo of multiple ASROC Anti-Submarine Missiles at the rapidly ascending Arbiter.
Enterprise-80's MH-60 Seahawk helicopters, already airborne, swiftly moved to intercept, dropping Mark 46 lightweight torpedoes in the Arbiter's projected path.
Giant plumes of water erupted from the underwater explosions, but all of their desperate attempts proved futile. Their conventional weaponry seemed to have no effect whatsoever on this particular Arbiter.
One retreating Seahawk was either struck/collided with the ascending Arbiter as it breached the surface and continued its rapid ascent into the higher altitudes. Reaching it's the higher altitude above the fleet, both Enterprise-80 and Bunker Hill-76 unleashed a barrage of their most potent anti-aircraft missiles.
Arbiter Tower XVI, its form now fully revealed, effortlessly tanked the incoming missile attacks, a shimmering Force Field flickering around its towering rigging. As the smoke from the explosions dissipated, Tower XVI's rigging split open, glowing with an intense, otherworldly light. It then unleashed a concentrated beam of devastating energy at the vulnerable Task Force below.
"Scatter!" Enterprise-80 roared over the comms, but before anyone could react, the concentrated energy beam split into multiple tendrils, coalescing to form a massive, shimmering dome that trapped a significant portion of the fleet within its conf...
"Scatter!" Enterprise-80 roared over the comms, but before anyone could react, the concentrated energy beam split into multiple tendrils, coalescing to form a massive, shimmering dome that trapped a significant portion of the fleet within its confines.
Queen Elizabeth, her engines straining to their maximum 27+ knot speed, desperately tried to outrun the expanding energy field, but even her impressive speed was no match. She slammed headfirst into the invisible barrier, trapped along with the other Shipgirls.
Enterprise-80's returning jet aircraft collided violently with the outer surface of the dome, exploding harmlessly outside the energy field. Vestal, caught off guard and unable to maneuver as quickly as the others, found herself also ensnared within the rapidly forming barrier.
Enterprise-80, Bunker Hill-76, Enterprise-6, Queen Elizabeth, Warspite, Hood, Cruiser Belfast, Constellation, and Vestal were the key Shipgirls now trapped within the ominous energy dome summoned by Arbiter Tower XVI.
The Siren's true, insidious plan was now terrifyingly clear: isolate the "Main-Brain" from the "Body." By trapping the Flagship, they aimed to cripple the entire Azur Lane Fleet in one fell swoop.
With the Flagship neutralized and unable to issue commands, the Sirens theorized that they could systematically eliminate the disorganized Azur Lane forces.
If the Officers in charge is out in the field, the Grunts on the Battlefield will be unregulated. The Modern Kansen just activated their Default Aggression, without proper instruction the Americans would always resort to distraction.
But these Siren were woefully ignorant of a fundamental principle ingrained within the American military psyche: when the officers in charge are incapacitated, the grunts on the battlefield become... unregulated. The Modern Kansens, now effectively without direct orders, simply default aggression, without proper instruction, the Americans would always resort to Destruction
And lurking within their Vertical Launch System (VLS) cells was the ultimate equalizer: the nuclear-armed Tomahawk cruise missile. The playing field was about to become far, far brighter than anyone could possibly imagine.