Yuuki blinked as the light faded.
The void still stretched endlessly around him.
"…Eh?" he muttered. "I thought I was heading back."
A familiar presence approached, calm and composed, carrying that unmistakable elegance.
"My… kind sir? I did not expect to see you again so soon."
Yuuki turned.
"Hood.. I mean.."
His smile soften. "…My lady."
Hood walked closer, her posture refined as ever. Without hesitation, she reached out and gently brushed his coat, smoothing it as if it had been disturbed.
"My… it is truly nice to see you again," Hood said warmly.
Yuuki gave a small nod.
"Are you well?"
She paused, then let out a soft, graceful laugh.
"Well would be an understatement, kind sir," she replied.
There was no bitterness in her tone.
No regret.
Just calm acceptance.
Yuuki looked at her for a moment.
"…I'll find a way to revive you soon."
Hood tilted her head slightly, amused.
"My… such kindness," she said, a faint giggle escaping her lips. "To think you would trouble yourself so much for me."
Her eyes softened.
"Thank you… for thinking of me."
Yuuki exhaled quietly.
"…You shouldn't sound so distant about it."
She smiled gently.
"It is not distance," she said. "It is gratitude."
The void remained still around them.
Yuuki let out a small breath, the tension easing just a little in her presence.
"Well, I still need someone who won't let me turn into a caveman," he said, a faint tease in his tone.
Hood's expression warmed.
Then—
She reached out and gave his arm a light pinch.
"My, I see you are just as cheeky as ever, kind sir," she said, her smile elegant but unmistakably amused.
Yuuki winced slightly.
"…You didn't have to prove your point physically."
Hood lifted her chin just a fraction, clearly pleased.
"On the contrary," she replied. "A gentle reminder is sometimes necessary."
She stepped beside him, her presence calm and steady.
"It is reassuring," she added softly. "That you have not changed."
Yuuki glanced at her.
"…You say that like it's a good thing."
Hood gave a small, knowing smile.
"It is," she said. "Because it means the person who reached out to us… is still the same person standing here now."
For a moment—
Neither of them spoke.
Then Hood continued, her tone lighter again.
"Though," she added, eyes glinting faintly, "if you do intend to 'revive' us all, I suppose I shall have to ensure you remain properly mannered."
Yuuki huffed quietly.
"…So you're volunteering to keep me in line."
She inclined her head gracefully.
"Gladly."
A sharp, familiar voice cut cleanly through the calm of the void.
"Servant! Finally you come to see your queen!"
Yuuki turned.
There she was—small in stature, yet radiating absolute authority as she pointed her staff straight at him.
"…Elizabeth."
Beside him, Hood straightened slightly, her tone refined as always.
"Now, now… stand properly," she said. "You are in the presence of Her Majesty."
Yuuki let out a quiet sigh and adjusted his posture.
"…Fine," he said. "It's nice seeing you again, Elizabeth."
Elizabeth crossed her arms, chin raised high.
"Hmph. I suppose Hood has done something to tone down your barbaric way of speaking."
Yuuki smirked slightly.
"Hey, I like being a caveman—"
Pinch.
"Ekk!!"
Hood's fingers withdrew as gracefully as they had struck.
"My… it seems your habits persist," she said with a composed smile. "Perhaps I truly must begin your training again."
Yuuki rubbed his arm, glaring slightly.
"You enjoy that way too much."
Elizabeth huffed, clearly satisfied with the exchange.
"Serves you right," she said. "A proper servant should know how to behave before royalty."
Yuuki exhaled, though there was no real irritation behind it.
"…Yeah, yeah."
Elizabeth stepped closer, lowering her staff just slightly as she looked him over.
"…You actually came back," she said, quieter now.
Yuuki met her gaze.
"I said I would."
There was a brief pause.
Elizabeth turned her head slightly, hiding her expression.
"Hmph… well, of course you did," she muttered. "You are my servant, after all."
Hood smiled softly at the side, clearly seeing through it.
Yuuki just shook his head.
"…You haven't changed either."
Elizabeth immediately snapped back.
"Of course I haven't!" she declared. "A queen does not change for anyone!"
Hood let out a gentle laugh.
"And yet," she added softly, "she waited."
Elizabeth froze for half a second.
"…Hood."
Yuuki glanced between them.
Then smiled faintly.
"…Yeah," he said.
"Good to see you both."
A composed voice joined the gathering, carrying both familiarity and quiet strength.
"Attendant, you seem to have grown well since we last met."
Yuuki turned slightly.
"…Lady Valiant."
Valiant stood with her usual poise, arms lightly folded, observing him with a sharp but not unfriendly gaze.
Yuuki gave a small shrug.
"I guess I have."
Valiant tilted her head just a fraction.
"It is amusing," she said, "how my sister has always had a soft spot for you."
Yuuki smirked faintly.
"…And you don't?"
Valiant answered without hesitation.
"I do," she said calmly. "As an attendant."
Yuuki let out a short breath.
"…Touché."
Another presence stepped forward.
Smaller.
Yet far heavier in presence.
"My lord," she said.
Yuuki's expression softened slightly.
"…Warspite."
She looked at him directly, her tone respectful but steady.
"Is there any progress… on reviving us?"
There was no desperation in her voice.
Only clarity.
Yuuki nodded.
"Yeah," he said. "I found the machine in the headquarters."
He paused briefly.
"…But it's badly damaged."
They listened without interruption.
"I've got the schematics," he continued. "So rebuilding it isn't the issue."
His gaze sharpened slightly.
"Understanding it fully… and powering it properly—that's what will take time."
Warspite nodded once, absorbing it.
"I still need materials," Yuuki added. "Specific ones. Not standard."
He exhaled quietly.
"…I might need to rebuild an Ore Refinery and an Ore Purifier once I get back."
Valiant raised a brow.
"…You are planning infrastructure expansion already?"
Yuuki gave a small, matter-of-fact nod.
"If I want consistent production, I don't have a choice."
Warspite's expression remained steady.
"…Then you have a path forward."
Yuuki looked at her.
"…Yeah."
A brief silence followed.
Not uncertain.
Not uneasy.
Just… waiting.
Valiant finally spoke again.
"Well," she said lightly, "it seems we shall have to rely on you a little longer."
Yuuki huffed quietly.
"…You say that like you have a choice."
Valiant smirked faintly.
"Perhaps we do not," she admitted.
Warspite inclined her head slightly.
"…We will wait."
Hood stepped slightly forward, her composed presence steady as ever.
"By the way, kind sir," she said gently, "it seems that you have already saved three of our finest members."
One of the girls near Elizabeth stepped out with a bright grin, giving Yuuki a confident salute.
"I'm Repulse, a Renown-class battlecruiser!" she introduced herself. "I may not look like much, but I've been tons of places with the higher-ups!"
Her tone softened just a little.
"By the way… thanks for rescuing me."
Yuuki looked at her properly.
Repulse had a slender frame with a medium bust, carrying herself with an easy confidence. Her short brown hair was tied into a small ponytail, giving her a practical, no-nonsense look, while her blue eyes were lively and expressive.
Her outfit blended naval identity with mobility—a black and white jagged capelet rested on her shoulders, secured by a black lace wrapped around her neck. Beneath it, she wore a white crop top with gray and yellow trimmings, accented with an anchor brooch at the chest.
Her lower half consisted of a blue pleated skirt with white linings, paired with a brown garter. Her legs were covered in white thigh-high boots with a blue band, and her arms were fitted with white detached sleeves with yellow trimmings and blue cuffs over white gloves. A gray headband with a shiphead motif completed her look.
Yuuki nodded slightly.
"…Renown-class, huh."
He tilted his head.
"You've got a sister?"
Repulse's expression shifted, just slightly.
"Yeah…" she said. "Renown."
A brief pause followed.
"…But I haven't seen her for a long time."
Yuuki's gaze sharpened.
"I hope you can find her," Repulse added quietly. "Just like you found me."
Yuuki didn't hesitate.
"I promise," he said.
Her eyes widened slightly.
"I've got access to data on every manufactured shipgirl," he continued. "If she's still out there, I'll find her."
He paused briefly.
"And if she's… gone, I'll locate her cube and bring her here."
Repulse's hands tightened slightly at her sides.
"I was hoping for the first option…" she admitted softly.
Yuuki gave a small nod.
"…So am I."
Repulse straightened again, regaining some of her usual energy.
"Please do, Commander."
Yuuki met her gaze.
"…Count on it."
Behind them, Hood watched quietly, approving.
Elizabeth huffed, though she said nothing.
Because once again—
Yuuki had made a promise.
And this one mattered just as much as the others.
Two more figures approached him, their presence lighter compared to the composed Royal Navy elites behind them.
"Hey, Commander! I'm Kent! How do you do?"
Yuuki turned and took a proper look at her.
Kent had a slender frame with a medium bust, carrying herself with lively confidence. Her short purple hair framed her face, a small ahoge sticking up playfully, while a rabbit-eared styled black ribbon sat on top of her head. Her red eyes were bright and full of energy.
Her outfit followed the Royal Maid aesthetic but with her own flair—she wore a white collar with a black bowtie, paired with a white sleeveless buttoned shirt. A black corset hugged her waist beneath a white maid apron decorated with yellow buttons and heart motifs, with a large ribbon tied behind her back, ending in anchor-shaped ornaments.
Her lower half was just as detailed—a high-waist skirt with yellow linings and white frills underneath, complemented by white frilled socks with brown bands and black boots with fluffy cuffs. Her arms were covered with black gloves accented by red ribbons and fluffy white bands.
Yuuki blinked once, then nodded.
"Fine, I guess," he said. "Nice to see other maids aside from Belfast."
Kent grinned.
"Righto! That's good to hear!"
Another voice followed immediately.
"Ah—excuse me! You're the commander? This is great! I finally found you!"
Yuuki turned again.
Suffolk stepped forward, slightly more flustered but no less eager.
She had a slender frame with a noticeably larger bust, her presence softer but still energetic. Her pink hair flowed down her back, tied into low pigtails with fluffy white scrunchies, giving her a gentle, almost playful look. Her blue eyes shone brightly with relief and excitement.
Her outfit mirrored the maid theme but leaned more toward a cute and decorative style. She wore a black and white sleeveless frilled dress, fitted and buttoned, ending at her upper thighs. Over it was a frilled apron, adorned with heart-shaped brooches and fluffy decorative balls on each side.
A white garter with anchor straps trailed behind her, adding a distinctive naval motif. Her legs were covered in white frilled thigh-high socks with brown garters, paired with white frilled ankles and black shoes accented with a red brooch.
Her arms were wrapped in black elbow-length gloves with fluffy bands, and atop her head rested a heart-motif headband with brown lop ears, while a collar with a small cowbell and ribbons hung around her neck.
Yuuki took all that in, then nodded.
"…Suffolk."
Kent stepped in, casually pulling Suffolk closer with a grin.
"This is one of my sisters, Commander," she said proudly.
Yuuki raised a brow.
"You're the eldest?"
Kent puffed up immediately.
"Righto! I've got eight sisters!"
She gave Suffolk a squeeze.
"And this one here is my fifth!"
Yuuki crossed his arms slightly, thinking.
"…I see."
He glanced between them.
"So that means… I've got two out of eight accounted for."
Suffolk smiled, clearly relieved.
"That's already a good start," she said.
Kent laughed.
"Exactly! You're doing great already, Commander!"
Yuuki exhaled quietly, though a faint smirk appeared.
"…Yeah."
Because with every new face—
The list grew longer.
But so did the sense that—
He was actually getting somewhere.
Yuuki straightened slightly, shifting back into his usual composed stance.
"Well," he said, "I am Yuuki. High Commander of the Global Defense Initiative."
Repulse immediately brightened.
"Lady Hood already told us about it!" she said. "We'll join you!"
Yuuki blinked once.
"…That fast?"
Repulse grinned.
"Of course! And my sister too," she added. "We want to meet Lady Belfast as soon as possible."
Yuuki let out a small breath, half amused.
"…You're all making recruitment way too easy."
From behind, Elizabeth folded her arms, watching with a satisfied look.
"Seems you've found more of our subjects," she said.
Yuuki glanced back at her.
"I found more than that," he replied. "I now have data and coordinates of multiple Wisdom Cubes."
His tone sharpened slightly.
"I'll prioritize locating those still active first."
Elizabeth nodded, though her expression quickly shifted back to her usual impatience.
"See that you do," she said. "It's getting terribly boring here."
Valiant stepped in with a faint smirk.
"Attendant, it seems my sister is growing rather fond of you."
Elizabeth immediately snapped back.
"You! He is my servant! It is only natural!"
Yuuki sighed.
"…Here we go again."
Valiant didn't back down.
"I believe you are mistaken," she said calmly. "He is my attendant."
Elizabeth's eyes narrowed.
"Do remember your place!"
Yuuki rubbed his temple.
"…I'm not property, you know."
Before the exchange could escalate further, a gentle voice intervened.
"Leave them be, my lord."
Warspite stepped forward, her expression composed but faintly amused.
Yuuki exhaled slowly.
"…Thanks."
He looked around at all of them—Repulse, Kent, Suffolk, the Royal sisters, Hood.
More faces.
More responsibilities.
"…Looks like the list just keeps growing," he muttered.
But there was no hesitation in him now.
Because every new face—
Was someone he intended to bring back.
The sisters were already going at it again.
"You are overstepping—!"
"And you are being unreasonable—!"
Yuuki let out a long sigh.
"Haah…"
Then—
He paused.
"…Wait."
Something clicked.
He raised his hand, the interface flickering back into existence. The familiar panels expanded, responding instantly to his intent.
Warspite's voice cut in, calm but curious.
"What are you doing, my lord?"
Yuuki didn't answer immediately.
He scrolled.
Then found it.
[Teleport: Void World Node – Training Island]
"…There it is."
Elizabeth frowned slightly.
"…What exactly are you planning?"
Yuuki glanced at all of them.
"Mind everyone holding on to me?"
"…Why?" Valiant asked.
Yuuki smirked faintly.
"Just do it," he said. "You'll see."
There was a brief hesitation.
Then—
They moved.
Hood stepped closer first, placing a gentle hand on his arm.
Warspite followed, steady as ever.
Elizabeth grabbed his sleeve without much thought.
Valiant rested a hand on his shoulder.
Repulse stepped in with her usual energy, gripping his other arm.
Kent and Suffolk—
Had no hesitation at all.
They hugged him outright.
Yuuki stiffened slightly.
"…You two are way too comfortable."
Kent laughed.
"Righto! No complaints here!"
Suffolk's face flushed slightly, though she didn't let go.
"W-We're just following instructions!"
Even the others showed faint signs of embarrassment now that they were all gathered so closely around him.
Yuuki exhaled.
"…Alright."
He tapped the command.
"Teleporting."
The world shifted.
Light bent inward.
Space folded.
And in the next instant—
They arrived.
The island stretched before them.
Green.
Alive.
Real.
"…What—"
Elizabeth's voice stopped short.
Hood's eyes widened slightly, though she remained composed.
"My… what a transformation…"
Warspite looked across the horizon, taking in the terrain, the trees, the distant shoreline.
Valiant narrowed her eyes slightly.
"…You created this?"
Yuuki shrugged.
"Unlocked it. Don't ask how, I have no idea." he corrected.
Their attention shifted upward.
The tower.
Standing tall at the center of the island.
Dominant.
Refined.
Repulse let out a low whistle.
"…Now that's impressive."
Kent's eyes sparkled.
"Righto! This is amazing!"
Suffolk looked around in awe.
"It feels like a real place…"
Elizabeth took a step forward, her usual authority momentarily replaced by genuine surprise.
"…To think… there was something like this hidden here…"
Yuuki crossed his arms lightly.
The wind moved through the trees.
Grass swayed.
Life existed where there had been nothing.
And for the first time—
All of them stood somewhere that felt—
Real.
Amagi's voice greeted them the moment they settled on the island.
"Ara… Shikikan-sama, back so soon?"
Yuuki let out a small breath.
"I thought I was returning to the real world," he said, glancing at his hand. "Looks like the system had other plans. It redirected me… and brought everyone along."
Amagi's gaze shifted past him—
Then widened slightly.
"Lady Hood?"
Hood stepped forward immediately, her usual composure softening.
"Lady Amagi."
The two closed the distance and embraced, their movements graceful, familiar—like old allies reunited rather than strangers meeting again.
"It is truly wonderful to see you again," Amagi said gently.
Hood nodded.
"As it is for me."
Amagi then turned to the others, her expression warm and welcoming.
"Queen Elizabeth, Lady Valiant, and Lady Warspite," she greeted.
Elizabeth lifted her chin slightly.
"It has been some time, Lady Amagi," she said, though her tone carried less sharpness than usual.
Valiant inclined her head.
"A pleasure."
Warspite followed with a respectful nod.
"The same to you."
Amagi's gaze shifted again, this time toward the newer faces.
"This must be Repulse… and the maids, Kent and Suffolk."
Kent perked up immediately.
"Righto! That's us!"
Suffolk gave a small, polite bow.
"It's an honor to meet you!"
Repulse looked between them, curious.
"…You know Hood?"
Amagi smiled softly.
"Yes," she said. "We are… good friends."
There was history in that answer.
Unspoken, but clear.
Elizabeth, meanwhile, had stepped forward slightly, her attention fixed on the surroundings.
The island.
The trees.
The tower rising in the distance.
"…To think," she said slowly, "there is land within this void."
Yuuki crossed his arms lightly.
"…Not just land," he replied.
He gestured ahead.
"A place to stay," Yuuki said, gesturing toward the tower. "I just built it. Come on."
The Royal girls followed him, curiosity clearly outweighing their usual composure. Even Elizabeth, despite herself, walked a little faster to get a better look.
They had barely stepped into the open clearing when—
"Eh, Tono? You're here already?"
Yamashiro's voice rang out as she turned, surprise written all over her face.
"Ara… Shikikan-sama," Fusou added, bowing gracefully. "I thought you had already departed."
Yuuki smiled faintly and reached out, patting both sisters on the head. Their ears twitched immediately under his touch.
"…Temporary detour," he said.
"Yuuki-chan!"
Junyou rushed him again without hesitation, wrapping her arms around him tightly.
That—
Did not go unnoticed.
The Royal shipgirls stiffened almost in unison.
Elizabeth's brow twitched.
"…What is the meaning of this?"
Valiant narrowed her eyes slightly.
"…How bold."
Hood remained composed, though her gaze sharpened just a fraction.
Warspite said nothing—
But observed closely.
Yuuki exhaled quietly.
"…Yeah, yeah. It's just for a while, Junyou."
Junyou nodded against him, clearly content just being there.
"Oh, Shiki… you came back?" Hiyou called out, walking over with a casual smirk.
She glanced past him—
Then raised a brow.
"Heh… looks like you brought company."
Her gaze swept across the Royal Navy group.
"The Royal ladies, huh."
Kent blinked.
"…Wait, there are more of you here already?"
Suffolk stepped slightly closer, curious.
"…They've been here this whole time?"
Repulse looked around, surprised.
"…So this place already had residents."
Amagi stepped forward between the two groups, her presence naturally calming the shift in atmosphere.
"It seems Shikikan-sama has gathered quite the company," she said gently.
Fusou bowed again toward the newcomers.
"Welcome," she said. "You are safe here."
Yamashiro waved enthusiastically.
"It's really nice here! There's food too!"
Elizabeth crossed her arms, still clearly processing everything.
"…So not only is there land," she said, "but you've already begun assembling… factions."
Yuuki scratched his cheek.
"…Wasn't exactly planned like that."
Valiant smirked faintly.
"…Yet it suits you."
Meanwhile—
Junyou still hadn't let go.
Yuuki sighed.
"…We're really doing this, huh."
Because now—
Two groups.
Two backgrounds.
One space.
And somehow—
They were all gathering around him.
Yuuki led the Royal group into one of the empty rooms on the first floor. The space was wide, clean, and polished—but completely bare.
Elizabeth stopped in the middle of it and frowned.
"This room is empty!" she declared, clearly unimpressed.
Yuuki raised a hand slightly.
"Hold on, Elly… I can fix that."
"…Elly?!"
Elizabeth froze for a split second—
Then her face flushed red.
"Y-You—! Do not address your queen so casually!"
Valiant turned away slightly, clearly amused.
"…That is new."
Hood covered her lips with a soft smile.
"My…"
Yuuki ignored the reactions and opened the interface again. His fingers moved with more confidence this time as he navigated straight to the Furniture Set tab.
"Let's try this one."
He selected:
Royal Teahouse
The room transformed instantly.
The floor shifted into polished royal flooring, rich and elegant. The walls reformed into refined royal wallpaper, patterned with classical motifs. A large royal rug spread beneath their feet, anchoring the space.
Warm light filled the room as royal lamps and wall lamps lit up in sequence.
Furniture assembled itself piece by piece.
Two drink tables appeared, followed by a central round table and a complete royal tea set placed neatly on top. A tall bookcase lined one wall, while a billiards table settled into place nearby.
Seating followed—sofa chairs, ottomans, and finely crafted royal chairs, arranged with deliberate spacing.
An armoire stood elegantly in the corner.
A fireplace ignited softly, casting a warm glow across the room.
Decor followed.
A mounted hunting prize, a dignified royal portrait, and a photo wall filled with empty frames waiting for memories.
Tall royal windows formed along the wall, letting in soft ambient light.
A delicate violin rested nearby.
And finally—
Multiple rooms with royal beds completed the main room. Similar to Sakura waiting dorm from before.
Silence followed.
Elizabeth stepped forward slowly, taking it all in.
"…Now this," she said, lifting her chin slightly, "is a room befitting us."
Valiant nodded faintly.
"…Acceptable."
Warspite observed quietly, then gave a small approving nod.
"It is well structured."
Kent spun slightly in place.
"Righto! This is amazing!"
Suffolk clasped her hands together.
"It feels so… elegant!"
Repulse whistled softly.
"…You really went all out."
Hood stepped beside Yuuki, her expression warm and impressed.
"My, kind sir…" she said gently.
"You truly are full of surprises."
Yuuki crossed his arms lightly, glancing around the finished room.
"…Just using what's available," Yuuki said, glancing around the newly transformed room. "This is the Void World. Things here… respond like magic."
He tapped lightly on the interface still hovering near his hand.
"But it's not really magic," he continued. "It's controlled matter manipulation. Same principle applies back in the real world—just slower, because we need raw materials."
Valiant tilted her head slightly.
"…Explain."
Yuuki nodded.
"Think of it like this," he said. "I feed in raw resources—ore, refined materials, energy—and through a construction interface, I assemble structures directly."
He gestured around the room.
"Buildings, equipment, infrastructure. What normally takes months can be done in hours."
Warspite's gaze sharpened.
"…Rapid deployment capability."
"Exactly," Yuuki replied.
Hood's eyes softened slightly.
"My… that is quite extraordinary."
Elizabeth leaned back in her chair, clearly pleased with the surroundings.
"Hmph… as expected of my servant," she said, though her tone lacked its usual bite.
Then she shifted comfortably into the Royal Chair, letting out a small, satisfied breath.
"…Finally," she added, "we do not have to stand or sit on water anymore."
Valiant took the seat to her right without hesitation.
Warspite took the one on her left.
Hiyou crossed her arms nearby, grinning.
"Well, well… the Royal shipgirls have assembled."
Meanwhile—
Hood had already moved.
The moment she saw the Royal Tea Set, something in her expression softened.
For the first time since arriving—
There was genuine excitement.
"My… it has been far too long," she murmured.
She began preparing tea with practiced elegance, every movement precise and graceful. Kent and Suffolk quickly joined in, assisting with familiarity and enthusiasm.
Amagi stepped in as well, quietly helping arrange the cups.
Soon—
Tea was prepared for everyone.
Royal.
Sakura.
All of them included.
And the best part—
The tea did not run out.
Hood approached Yuuki last, placing a cup before him.
He reached for it casually—
"Now, now," Hood said gently as she sat beside him.
Her hand lightly guided his.
"It is customary," she continued, "to lift the cup slowly."
Yuuki paused.
"…Right."
She adjusted his grip slightly.
"Posture straight," she added softly. "Movement refined. No haste."
Yuuki exhaled quietly.
"…You're really doing this."
Hood smiled faintly.
"You are in the presence of royalty," she said. "Proper etiquette is not optional."
Yuuki glanced at Elizabeth.
Then at the others.
Then back at his cup.
"…Years in a Tiberium-infested battlefield didn't exactly come with a manners handbook," he muttered.
Hood's expression softened just slightly.
"Then I shall provide one," she said. "Maybe one day, you will tell me about this... Tiberium."
"Uhh, you don't want to know."
She demonstrated calmly, lifting her own cup with grace.
"Observe."
Yuuki followed—
A bit stiff.
A bit awkward.
But trying.
Hood nodded faintly.
"…Better."
Around them, the room settled into a rare moment of calm.
Tea.
Conversation.
Presence.
And for once—
Yuuki wasn't leading a battle.
He was being taught how to sit still.
"Finally… after all these years," Elizabeth murmured, lifting her cup with practiced elegance. "The taste of tea is… exquisite."
The room settled into a rare calm.
Steam rose gently from the cups. The soft crackle of the fireplace filled the silence. Even the Royal Shorthair curled lazily near the warmth, completely at ease.
Hood's gaze shifted slightly toward Yuuki.
"By the way, kind sir…" she began.
Yuuki glanced at her.
"…Yeah?"
Her tone remained composed, but her eyes were sharper now.
"What is your relationship with that girl?"
Yuuki paused.
"…Which one?"
Hood did not look away.
"The one who embraced you so intimately."
A brief pause.
"As your lady… such conduct is not something I can simply ignore."
Yuuki sighed quietly.
"…It's not like that."
That alone drew more attention.
"I'm filling a role," he explained. "Junyou believes I'm her childhood friend."
He leaned back slightly.
"Playing along stabilizes her. She finally stopped chasing something that didn't exist."
Hood's expression softened—just a fraction.
"I see…"
She lowered her gaze briefly, considering.
"…Then your actions are… justified," she admitted.
But her eyes lifted again.
"Even so," she added, more firmly, "do be mindful of your closeness with other women."
Before Yuuki could respond—
"My, my… Lady Hood," Amagi's voice slipped in smoothly.
Her tail curled around Yuuki from behind, soft yet deliberate.
"Are you already staking a claim?"
Hood did not flinch.
"Well… yes," she replied calmly. "I am responsible for refining his conduct."
Amagi smiled faintly.
"…Is that what you call it?"
Her tone turned just slightly teasing.
"Or is it something more… personal?"
Hood's expression remained composed—
But there was a brief pause.
Yuuki raised a hand.
"…Well, that's my cue to leave—"
He started to stand—
A hand pressed down on his shoulder.
Amagi.
At the same time—
Another hand rested firmly on his other shoulder.
Hood.
Yuuki froze mid-motion.
"…You've got to be kidding me."
Amagi leaned slightly closer, her voice soft.
"Where do you think you are going, Shikikan-sama?"
Hood's tone followed, equally calm.
"The lesson is not yet complete."
Yuuki slowly sat back down.
"…This is a trap."
From the side—
Hiyou snorted.
"Heh… you walked right into it."
Elizabeth sipped her tea, completely unbothered.
"Hmph. Serves you right. The servant needs to be educated with proper ethics."
Valiant smirked faintly.
"A predictable outcome."
Warspite simply observed.
"…Discipline is important, my lord. As your royal knight, you do need to know proper ethics."
Yuuki exhaled slowly.
"…I miss combat."
Hood gently adjusted his posture again.
"Focus."
Amagi's tails tightened just slightly around him.
"…And behave."
Yuuki stared at his tea.
"…Yeah," he muttered.
"I'm not winning this one."
Just as the room settled into its rhythm—
Yuuki began to glow again.
"…Ah, there it is."
He looked around quickly, already half-fading, light flickering unevenly across his body.
"Yes! Thank you! I'll see you girls later!"
Then, with unnecessary enthusiasm—
"And here we goooooo—!"
…Nothing happened.
The glow continued.
Yuuki blinked.
He looked down at his hand.
"…This might take a while…"
Silence.
A long, very noticeable silence.
Elizabeth slowly lowered her teacup.
"…Is he… stuck?"
Valiant raised a brow.
"…Impressive."
Hiyou snorted.
"Heh. Smooth exit, Shiki."
Kent tried—unsuccessfully—not to laugh.
"R-Righto… dramatic, that was!"
Suffolk covered her mouth, shoulders shaking slightly.
Hood, to her credit, maintained composure.
"…It appears the transition is… delayed. Is this your way of escaping your lady?"
Amagi's tails swayed gently, amusement clear in her eyes.
"My, Shikikan-sama… even your departures are entertaining."
Yuuki cleared his throat.
"…Yeah, yeah."
He shifted slightly, still glowing awkwardly in place.
"Oh, did I ever tell you—"
Flash.
Gone.
Silence returned.
Then—
Hiyou burst out laughing.
"Okay, that was worth it."
Hood let out a soft sigh, placing her cup down carefully.
"…He truly is a piece of work."
Valiant crossed her arms.
"Which is precisely why he requires refinement from you," she said. "Especially as the high commander."
"…Instead of behaving like a caveman," she added dryly.
Amagi gave a small, knowing smile.
"Indeed," she said. "Though… I must admit, that unrefined nature is part of what makes him who he is."
Her expression softened.
"And I owe him greatly… for saving my sisters."
Elizabeth leaned back slightly in her chair, still holding her tea.
"We owe him as well," she said. "For rescuing Illustrious and Belfast."
Warspite nodded once.
"…A debt acknowledged."
Fusou glanced toward Amagi.
"Amagi-sama… which members of the Sakura Empire has he saved so far?"
Amagi answered calmly.
"Currently, Atago and Takao," she said. "And more recently… Akagi and Kaga."
That drew a reaction.
"…Akagi and Kaga?" Valiant raised a brow.
"That is… unexpected."
Yamashiro smiled brightly.
"Eh… Tono has saved a lot of shipgirls!" she said. "Tono really is nice!"
Fusou nodded gently beside her.
"…He brings hope where there was none."
Junyou remained quiet.
Her hands rested lightly in her lap.
But unlike before—
Her expression was calm.
No searching.
No desperation.
Just… waiting.
Hiyou glanced at her, then looked back at the others with a small smirk.
"Well… if you ask me," she said, "he's kind of a yankee."
A brief pause.
Then she shrugged.
"…But not a bad one."
Amagi's tails swayed lightly behind her.
"…Yes."
Hood lifted her cup again, her expression composed but thoughtful.
"…Unrefined," she said softly.
Then, after a brief pause—
"…But dependable."
And in a room that no longer felt empty—
That judgment carried weight.
==============
Yuuki blinked as the glow faded again.
"…Finally," he muttered, rubbing his temple. "Hood and Amagi really are something. I thought Belfast was already a handful…"
He paused.
"…Guess I'm still here."
"Handsome! You came for me!"
Before he could react—
A familiar figure leapt straight at him.
"Hornet—!"
He caught her instinctively.
"Hehe… you really do miss me!" she laughed, arms loosely around his shoulders.
Before he could respond—
She leaned in and kissed his cheek.
"Thanks for saving Enty and Vestal," she said with a grin. "It means a lot."
Yuuki blinked.
"…You're welcome, I guess—"
"Hornet!"
Another voice cut in sharply.
"Kissing a man like that is unacceptable."
Hornet waved it off casually.
"Calm down, teach… it's not like it's every day," she said. "He saved my sister. I'm just giving him a reward."
Yuuki sighed quietly.
"…You could've gone with something less explosive."
The second woman stepped forward, regaining composure.
"Ah… my apologies," she said. "Who is this man?"
Hornet immediately answered.
"This is my man, of course."
Yuuki deadpanned.
The woman straightened, her presence becoming more formal.
"Wait… you're the one who called to us," she said.
She placed a hand lightly over her chest.
"I am Ranger," she introduced. "The first purpose-built aircraft carrier of the Eagle Union."
Yuuki took a proper look at her.
Ranger had a tall, slender frame with a large bust, carrying herself with a composed, instructor-like demeanor. Her long pink hair flowed down her back, held neatly by a black headband, and her purple eyes were sharp yet kind.
Around her neck rested a brown choker with an anchor motif, matching her naval identity. She wore a black sleeveless high-collared coat with yellow accents and buttons, layered over a white top, paired with a red miniskirt with white linings.
Her legs were adorned with pink thigh bands over black thigh-high socks, leading down to red slip shoes. Her arms were fitted with black detached sleeves detailed with folds, yellow accents, and buttons, worn over pink partially fingerless gloves.
Yuuki nodded slightly.
"…Ranger."
Recognition clicked.
"I saw your name in the headquarters data."
Ranger's expression softened.
"So it was you," she said. "The one rescuing us."
She gave a small, sincere bow.
"Thank you. Truly."
Yuuki waved it off lightly.
"It's the least I can do."
Hornet leaned against him again, completely unbothered.
"See? Told you he's a good guy."
Yuuki sighed.
"…You're not helping my image."
Ranger adjusted her posture slightly, returning to her composed tone.
"Even so," she said, "we are in your debt."
Yuuki glanced between them.
Hornet—casual, bold.
Ranger—formal, measured.
Different again.
"…Yeah," he said.
"Looks like I picked up more along the way."
"Is he now?"
Another voice entered the scene—confident, grounded, carrying the weight of experience.
"Thank you from me as well," she said. "Yo! I'm the big sister of the Nevada-class battleships—Nevada! I've served in both the Atlantic and Pacific fleets. The President's stood on my deck, I've changed kidneys, carried atomic bombs, and cleared entire battlefields!"
Yuuki turned toward her.
Nevada stood tall, her presence commanding without trying too hard. She had tan skin, a slender frame with a large bust, and carried herself like someone who had seen far too much to be shaken easily. Her light-brown eyes were sharp, while her long, messy blonde hair partially covered her right eye, giving her a rugged edge.
She wore a red ascot around her neck, paired with a brown leather cropped jacket with a white fur collar, puffy sleeves, and fringed edges. Beneath that was a white strapless buttoned shirt, layered with a long brown waist cape trimmed in white fringes over a black pencil skirt. Her legs were clad in dark-brown gartered thigh-high socks, leading down to red shoes, while her hands were covered with black and brown fingerless gloves. A short cylindrical headpiece rested on the side of her head.
Before Yuuki could respond—
"Ah, me as well! Thanks for rescuing me and sis!"
Another stepped forward beside Nevada.
"I'm Oklahoma of the Nevada class. I've served in both the Atlantic and Pacific fleets…"
Oklahoma carried a different energy—lighter, more approachable, but no less proud. She was tall with a slender figure and a medium bust, her short white hair topped with a playful ahoge, and bright blue eyes full of warmth.
Her outfit reflected a more rugged, grounded style—a brown sleeveless collared crop top with white leather strips, layered over a white buttoned shirt worn open, with a brown belt hanging loosely at her waist. She wore a brown Native American-inspired skirt with side slits and white leather strips, paired with brown boots accented by white bands and pink heels. Her arms were covered with brown detached sleeves and gloves, and a small headpiece rested atop her head.
Hornet leaned casually against Yuuki again, grinning.
"Feast your eyes, handsome," she said. "These are the girls you saved. Pretty good cuties, right?"
"Hornet!"
Ranger immediately snapped.
Hornet waved her off.
"Your strictness won't work here, teach."
Yuuki sighed quietly.
"…I'm starting to see a pattern."
Nevada stepped forward, crossing her arms slightly but smiling.
"Well, I owe you," she said. "Hornet tells me you're some big-shot commander from this GDI."
Oklahoma grinned beside her.
"Ahaa, my thanks too."
Yuuki nodded.
"Yeah," he said. "Name's Yuuki. Global Defense Initiative High Commander."
He glanced at both of them.
"Nice to meet you."
Nevada smirked.
"Hornet already filled us in," she said. "You're the one who called out… and pulled us out of that mess."
She tilted her head slightly.
"We're in your debt."
Then—
With a grin—
"Mind letting us join your little club, kid?"
Yuuki let out a short breath.
"…That saves me the trouble of convincing you."
He glanced sideways.
"Thanks, Hornet."
Hornet flashed him a grin.
"Anytime, handsome."
Oklahoma chuckled.
"Well, if Hornet's talking about you like that," she said, "you must be doing something right."
Yuuki shook his head slightly.
"…Or she just has questionable standards."
Hornet gasped dramatically.
"Rude! As expected of my man!"
But despite the banter—
The pattern was clear again.
More names.
More faces.
And more people—
Choosing to stand with him.
"We're quite an amusing bunch, huh?" Ranger said, adjusting her posture slightly as she observed the group dynamic.
Yuuki glanced at her.
"…Can't argue with that," he said. "You're a teacher?"
Ranger nodded.
"Eh? Yes… I teach, mostly history of the factions," she replied, a bit more reserved now.
Yuuki's interest piqued immediately.
"…Good," he said. "I actually need that."
She blinked.
"…You do?"
Yuuki nodded.
"I've only been in this world for about two weeks," he explained. "I know fragments—data, reports—but not the full picture."
He looked at her directly.
"Mind taking on the role of briefing me?"
Ranger straightened slightly, clearly shifting into her professional mindset.
"Oh… if you don't mind, Commander," she said. "I would be glad to."
Hornet immediately leaned in again, grinning.
"Ohhh, laying hands on our teach now, handsome?" she teased. "Careful—she's strict and feisty, but she can be a good girl if you play her right."
"Hornet!!"
Ranger flushed, her composure cracking for a brief moment.
Yuuki raised a hand.
"I have no such intention, Hornet," he said flatly.
Nevada let out a low chuckle.
"You're a funny one, kid," she said.
Oklahoma nodded beside her, smiling.
"Yeah… but you've got a good head on your shoulders," she added. "I don't mind serving under you."
Yuuki exhaled quietly.
Ranger adjusted her stance again, now fully composed.
"Then I will assist you as an instructor," she said. "If you are to lead, you should understand the world you're stepping into."
Yuuki nodded.
"That's exactly what I need."
Hornet crossed her arms, smirking.
"Heh… look at you getting all serious again."
Yuuki shot her a glance before she jumped and hug him from behind. He sighs.
"…Someone has to be. Plus, I didn't know much of this world."
"Don't ask me, I am bad at studying." Hornet grins.
"Sure you are."
"Rude!"
But even then—
There was a faint smirk on his face.
Because between the chaos, the teasing, and the growing group—
Things were starting to take shape.
"Plus," Yuuki added, glancing at them, "you girls must be pretty bored here."
Hornet stretched slightly.
"Yeah… seas and skies for years," she said. "Gets old real fast."
Yuuki nodded.
"…Then come here."
They looked at him.
"Hold on to me," he said. "I'll take you somewhere better."
Hornet raised a brow.
"Eh? You revived us already?"
Yuuki shook his head.
"No, not yet," he replied. "But there's somewhere we can go."
There was a brief pause—
Then they moved.
Ranger stepped in first, holding his arm with composed trust.
Oklahoma took his hand, her grip firm but easygoing.
Nevada rested a hand on his shoulder, steady as ever.
Hornet?
She didn't hesitate.
She wrapped herself around him from behind.
"Hehe… best seat in the house."
Yuuki exhaled.
"…You're really not subtle."
He raised his hand.
The interface activated.
[Teleport: Void World Node – Training Island]
Light folded around them.
In the next instant—
They appeared.
Right before the tower.
Hornet immediately let go, stepping forward as her eyes widened.
"Heh… there's land here?"
Yuuki nodded.
"Yeah," he said. "I brought the Sakura and Royal girls here earlier."
Hornet smirked.
"Hoo… Queeny's here too, huh."
Oklahoma looked around, clearly impressed.
"Heee… this place is huge."
Ranger nodded slowly, analyzing the environment.
"…Structured terrain. Vegetation. Architecture."
Nevada whistled low.
"…Not bad at all."
She glanced at Yuuki.
"So what can we do here?"
Yuuki shrugged slightly.
"For now?" he said.
"Relax. Explore. Wait."
Then he added—
"…Better than standing on water, right?"
That was enough.
Hornet grinned.
"Yeah… way better."
Oklahoma stretched her arms.
"I'm already liking this place."
Ranger's gaze shifted toward the tower.
"…And this is only the beginning, isn't it?"
Yuuki smirked faintly.
"…Yeah."
Because now—
Even the void—
Was starting to feel alive.
"Ah, you're back."
Hood appeared with Amagi at her side, both of them immediately recognizing the new arrivals. Their composure remained intact, though their attention sharpened slightly at the unfamiliar faces.
"Sup, Hoody. Amagi," Hornet greeted casually. "Long time no see!"
Before the tone could settle, Ranger stepped in and delivered a light chop to Hornet's head.
"Show some respect."
Hornet rubbed her head with a grin. "Alright, alright…"
Hood sighed softly, though a small smile remained. "Welcome," she said, her voice warm but measured.
Yuuki gestured forward. "Yes, my lady. I brought them here. Let's get them settled."
He led them into another empty room on the first floor. The space was wide but completely bare, the polished surfaces reflecting a cold, unfinished atmosphere.
Hornet immediately latched onto his arm again, leaning into him without hesitation.
"Handsome," she said, her tone playful, "you're not going to let your girl sleep on a cold, hard floor, right?"
Yuuki didn't answer right away.
Because he could feel it.
Two distinct gazes pressing into his back.
Hood.
Amagi.
Silent, but unmistakably displeased.
He exhaled quietly. "…Right."
Without turning, he raised his hand and summoned the interface. The panel flickered to life, and he selected the Blue Eagles set.
The transformation began instantly.
The floor shifted first, smoothing into clean linoleum. The walls followed, filling with Carolina blue tones that brought a sense of energy into the room. A bold patriot-themed carpet spread across the center, anchoring the space.
Furniture assembled rapidly. A coffee table formed near a comfortable sofa, while a carrier bed appeared along one side of the room. A computer setup flickered to life in the corner, accompanied by a stereo system that hummed faintly as it powered on.
A poker table appeared with cards already laid out, alongside a BBO set for recreation. Bomb-shaped stools and patriot-styled chairs filled the space, giving it a distinctly Eagle Union identity. Decorative plants added a touch of life, while a suitcase sat near the bed as if someone had just arrived.
The walls completed themselves with personality. A large Empire State poster hung prominently, a world map stretched across another section, and a lifesaver clock ticked steadily. A projector mounted above, ready for use, while a small "Little Boy" nightlight cast a soft glow near the bed. A wide window opened to the island outside, and the door sealed into a sturdy, themed entrance.
Finally, rooms with carrier beds.
When it was done, the room no longer felt empty.
It felt lived in.
Hornet stepped forward, looking around with wide eyes before spinning once.
"Wow… now this feels like home!"
Oklahoma grinned, clearly impressed. "Heh… yeah, this is more like it."
Nevada crossed her arms with a satisfied nod. "Not bad at all, kid."
Ranger adjusted her posture, taking in the layout with a more analytical eye. "Functional, comfortable, and familiar… a good environment."
Behind them, Hood observed quietly. "My… quite a contrast," she said, her tone thoughtful.
Amagi's tails swayed gently. "It suits them," she added, her voice calm.
Yuuki lowered his hand. "…That was the idea."
Hornet didn't waste a second. She dropped straight onto the sofa, stretching out like she had already claimed it.
"Yep. This is mine."
Yuuki sighed.
"…Of course it is."
Still, as he looked around the room, he couldn't deny it.
It fit them perfectly.
Hood folded her hands neatly in front of her, her expression composed, though her eyes lingered just a little too long on Hornet draped across the sofa.
"It is… certainly tailored to their tastes," she said, her tone polite but measured.
Amagi's tails swayed slowly behind her, her smile gentle yet carrying a quiet sharpness.
"My, Shikikan-sama, you seem to understand how to make others feel at home rather quickly."
Yuuki rubbed the back of his neck.
"I just picked what fits," he replied. "It's not that deep."
Hornet stretched lazily across the couch, completely unbothered.
"Oh, it's definitely deep," she said with a grin. "You're spoiling us already despite we're dead."
Ranger shot her a look, though she could not deny the comfort of the room.
"You should at least show some restraint," she said. "We are guests here."
"No, you're not."
"Eh?" Ranger wondered.
"This place is a waiting area for shipgirls waiting to be revived. So, this is your home here before you girls are brought back to the real world." Yuuki explained.
"We can stay here?" Ranger wondered and Yuuki nodded.
Nevada walked further in, glancing at the projector and the world map.
"This place isn't just for relaxing, is it?" she asked. "You're planning something bigger."
Yuuki nodded.
"This whole space will eventually be used for training," he explained. "Time moves differently here, so once everything is unlocked, you'll be able to improve much faster than in the real world."
Oklahoma leaned slightly forward, clearly interested.
"So we can get stronger while resting?" she asked. "We can start now!"
"Something like that, but only once your bodies reconstructed." Yuuki replied. "You'll train here, then apply it out there."
Hood stepped closer, her attention returning to him.
"That would make this place invaluable," she said. "A controlled environment for growth."
Amagi nodded in agreement.
"And a place of comfort while waiting," she added softly.
Yuuki glanced around the room again.
"That was the idea," he said.
Hornet shifted slightly, propping her head up with her hand as she looked at him.
"Handsome, you really thought this through," she said.
Yuuki exhaled quietly.
"I'm just trying to make sure none of you are stuck doing nothing," he replied.
Nevada smirked faintly.
"Well, you're doing a pretty good job so far," she said.
Behind him, Hood and Amagi exchanged a brief glance.
Neither spoke.
But the message was clear.
They had noticed everything.
And neither of them intended to ignore it.
"Well, do enjoy yourselves. I'll—"
Yuuki didn't finish.
Two hands landed on his shoulders.
Firm.
Precise.
Unavoidable.
He slowly turned his head.
Amagi.
Hood.
Both smiling.
Warm.
Elegant.
And absolutely terrifying.
"My, Shikikan-sama," Amagi said softly, her voice smooth as silk. "It seems you have been… quite popular."
Hood followed, her tone perfectly composed.
"Indeed, kind sir." she added. "And perhaps… a little too comfortable."
Yuuki swallowed.
"…I can explain."
Amagi's tails swayed gently behind her.
"I am sure you can."
Hood leaned just slightly closer.
"But explanations," she said, "do not replace proper conduct."
Yuuki raised his hands a little.
"Now hold on—"
Both tightened their grip.
Just enough.
"It seems," Amagi continued, still smiling, "that we need to educate you."
Hood nodded.
"On appropriate distance on other ladies who are not your ladies."
Yuuki looked between them.
Then over their shoulders—
Hornet.
Grinning.
"Good luck, handsome!" she called out cheerfully.
Yuuki stared at her.
"…You started this."
Hornet just waved.
"No regrets!"
Yuuki sighed.
Deeply.
"…I really should've stayed in the battlefield."
Hood gently adjusted his posture again.
"Stand straight."
Amagi's tails wrapped lightly around him.
"And behave."
Yuuki let himself be turned back toward the royal room.
"…Yeah," he muttered. "I'm definitely not winning this one. One last task, once I get those Ironblood women... I am getting out of here."
=========
Back in the Sakura-themed dormitory, the atmosphere had shifted completely.
The warm lighting, the soft rustle of paper screens, the faint scent of tea—it all felt calm.
Except for Yuuki.
He was kneeling.
Properly.
A tea cup placed neatly in front of him.
"…Why am I getting punished?" he asked, staring at the cup like it had betrayed him.
On his left—
Hood sat upright, composed as ever.
On his right—
Amagi mirrored that same posture, equally poised.
Both of them calm.
Both of them—
Unyielding.
"Kind sir," Hood began, her tone measured but firm, "you should be wary of the advances others make toward you."
She adjusted her sleeve slightly.
"It is not advisable to allow such closeness without understanding their intent."
Amagi followed, her voice softer but carrying the same weight.
"Shikikan-sama, please be mindful," she said. "Not all intentions are clear at first glance."
Her eyes met his.
"And not all attachments are… harmless."
Yuuki exhaled slowly.
"…You two are saying the same thing."
They were.
And yet—
There was something else underneath it.
Something neither of them said out loud.
Yuuki rubbed the back of his neck slightly.
"…Fine."
He straightened a bit, though still kneeling.
"No promises," he added. "But I'm not messing around with their feelings."
He looked between them.
"That's not what I'm doing."
Hood studied him for a moment.
Amagi's gaze softened slightly.
The tension eased—
Just a little.
"…That is all we ask," Hood said.
Amagi nodded gently.
"Shikikan-sama has always been sincere," she added.
Yuuki let out a quiet breath.
"…Still feels like I got dragged into this."
Hood lifted her tea calmly.
"A lesson," she corrected.
Amagi's tails swayed faintly.
"A necessary one."
Yuuki looked at his cup again.
"…Yeah."
He picked it up carefully this time.
"…I'm starting to miss combat again."
"Shikikan-sama… please forgive us."
"Forgive us, kind sir."
Yuuki blinked, caught off guard by the sudden shift in tone.
"…Eh?"
Amagi lowered her gaze slightly, her usual confidence softened.
"You must be annoyed… having to cater to our whims."
Hood followed, just as composed but clearly sincere.
"If what we did displeases you," she said, "please tell us. We will stop."
Yuuki stared at them for a moment.
Then—
He smiled.
He reached out, placing a hand gently on each of their heads.
"Amagi. My lady Hood," he said, his tone calm and honest. "I never said any of this was annoying."
They both froze slightly at the gesture.
"…If anything," he continued, "it's… warm."
A small pause.
"To have someone… or more than one… actually care."
His hand lingered for a moment before he pulled it back.
"Back then, I was on my own," he said. "Everything was decisions, pressure, survival."
He let out a quiet breath.
"So yeah… forgive me if I act like a caveman or a yankee sometimes."
Hood's expression softened.
Amagi's eyes gentled.
"Formal manners and etiquette weren't exactly my priority in a battlefield," Yuuki added.
He straightened slightly.
"So," he said, looking at both of them, "guide me."
Amagi blinked.
"…Guide you?"
Yuuki nodded.
"Sakura formalities. Royal etiquette," he said. "You're right—I'm dealing with people who value that."
A small smirk appeared.
"I can't act like a frontline grunt all the time."
"Shikikan-sama…" Amagi murmured softly.
"Kind sir…" Hood added, her voice equally touched.
They exchanged a glance.
Then—
Both nodded.
"Then," Hood said, "we ask your forgiveness as well."
Amagi continued.
"…For we may need to spend more time with you to properly teach you."
Yuuki raised a brow.
"…Define 'more time.'"
"Enough to ensure results," Hood replied calmly.
Yuuki sighed.
"…Tone it down a bit. Let me breathe."
He rubbed his temple.
"Belfast is already on my case."
Amagi let out a soft laugh.
"Ufufu… do not worry, Shikikan-sama," she said.
Then—
She glanced at him.
"…We won't."
A slight pause.
"…Too much."
Yuuki narrowed his eyes slightly.
"…Did you just say something?"
Amagi smiled sweetly.
"Nothing."
"Handsome!"
The moment the shout echoed—
Hornet crashed straight into him again.
"Ya leavin' your girl behind already?" she grinned, clinging onto him like she had zero intention of letting go.
Yuuki staggered slightly.
"…You've got incredible timing."
"Hornet-san, please get off Shikikan-sama!" Amagi said, her tone still polite—but noticeably firmer.
Hood followed immediately.
"Lady Hornet, such behavior is not befitting of a lady," she added. "We are currently in the middle of his etiquette training."
Hornet stuck her tongue out.
"Bleh… you just want my man all to yourselves," she shot back. "I'm not giving him up that easily!"
Yuuki raised a hand weakly.
"…I feel like I'm not being consulted in any of this."
From the side, Nevada stepped forward with a grin.
"Ah, young'un," she said, clearly amused. "Tell me more about this 'exclusive club' of yours."
Oklahoma nodded enthusiastically.
"Yeah, I wanna hear too," she added.
Ranger adjusted her posture, slipping right back into instructor mode.
"Commander," she said, "we can begin your history lessons at any time."
Yuuki blinked.
"…All at once?"
Hornet tightened her hold.
"See? Popular guy problems."
Yuuki sighed.
"…This isn't popularity. This is chaos."
Behind him—
Amagi and Hood stood side by side.
Both smiling.
Calm.
Elegant.
And just a little—
Too calm.
Their eyes met briefly.
A silent understanding passed between them.
If this approach wasn't enough—
They would simply need to adjust.
Yuuki, meanwhile, felt a chill run down his spine.
"…Why do I feel like I'm about to be scheduled like a timetable?" he muttered.
Because at this rate—
Between training, lessons, responsibilities—
And attention—
He wasn't getting out of this easily.
"Ah, Tono!"
Yamashiro was already at his side, pressing close with bright, eager eyes.
"Ear rubs, nyaaa~"
"Shikikan-sama, if you would…" Fusou added more gently, though no less hopeful. "I would also appreciate ear rubs."
Amagi lifted a hand slightly.
"Fusou-san, Yamashiro-san… please do not overwhelm him—"
"Yo, Shiki…" Hiyou leaned back with a grin. "Looks like you've got your hands full."
"Muu…" Junyou stepped closer, lightly biting her finger as she looked at him. "I want Yuuki-chan to touch my ears too…"
"There you are! Servant!" Elizabeth's voice cut in sharply. "Attend to your queen immediately!"
"Hold on, sister," Valiant interjected smoothly. "He is my attendant."
Warspite stepped forward with purpose.
"My lord, we must resume your sword training."
Kent clasped her hands behind her back, grinning.
"It seems Lord Commander has quite the schedule ahead."
Suffolk sighed softly beside her.
"…He really does."
Repulse leaned over toward Hiyou, both of them sharing a quiet laugh at the unfolding chaos.
Yuuki stood in the middle of it all.
Surrounded.
Pulled in every direction.
"…Oh man," he muttered, running a hand through his hair. "Can I catch a break?"
Then—
He began to glow.
Everyone paused.
Yuuki blinked once.
Then twice.
"…Oh."
A slow grin spread across his face.
"Saved by the—"
Flash.
Gone.
Hornet, who had been leaning on him, stumbled forward from the sudden loss of support.
"…Hey—!"
She caught herself just in time, straightening with a small click of her tongue.
"Tsk… he managed to escape."
Silence followed.
Then—
Hiyou laughed.
"Man's got survival instincts."
Elizabeth crossed her arms.
"…Running away from his duties…"
Valiant smirked.
"Strategic retreat."
Warspite nodded once.
"…Tactical withdrawal."
Amagi covered her smile lightly.
"Ufufu… how clever."
Hood exhaled softly.
"…We shall continue next time."
Yamashiro puffed her cheeks.
"He didn't give ear rubs!"
Junyou looked at where he vanished, pouting slightly.
"…Yuuki-chan ran away…"
Kent chuckled.
"Well… at least he'll be back."
Suffolk nodded.
"…He always comes back."
And despite everything—
They all knew.
He would.