"...Mmm..."
Yuuki slowly opened his eyes.
The first thing he felt...
Was something soft beneath his head.
He blinked once.
Twice.
Purple fox tails gently swayed above him.
Kaguya smiled down at him.
"Ah..."
"My dearest has finally returned."
Yuuki let out a long breath.
"...Yeah."
He looked up at the clear sky before smiling faintly.
"Cinderella is okay."
Kaguya gently brushed a strand of hair away from his forehead.
"That is wonderful news."
"We simply await her awakening now."
Yuuki nodded.
"...Yeah."
Then he finally noticed the noise surrounding them.
The battlefield hadn't stopped.
Explosions echoed continuously.
Machine-gun fire rattled across the shattered battleship.
Missiles streaked overhead.
Kaguya giggled softly.
"Ah..."
"It seems the world refused to wait whilst my dearest enjoyed his little journey."
Yuuki slowly sat up.
Around the wrecked battleship...
His Legions had established a defensive perimeter.
Ten standard Iron Legions marched through burning Rapture wreckage with mechanical precision.
Heavy autocannons roared.
Missile pods continuously launched into advancing enemy formations.
Not far away...
Five enormous Brute Iron Legions had joined the defense.
Their massive frames, inspired by the Mark 44 Hulkbuster, towered over the battlefield.
One Brute had wrapped both mechanical arms around a gigantic Rapture Walker.
Hydraulics screamed.
With a powerful twist—
KRRRRAAAANG!!
The Walker's legs snapped apart.
The Brute slammed the machine into the deck before driving one oversized armored fist straight through its core.
The Rapture exploded.
Yuuki blinked.
"...When did those get here?"
Kaguya smiled proudly.
"Yorktown sent them."
"She anticipated that thou wouldst require uninterrupted rest."
"The fleet focused upon the skies..."
"...whilst the Legions guarded thee."
Yuuki looked toward the heavens.
The aerial battle had become entirely one-sided.
Orca gunships patrolled in disciplined formations.
Heavy cannons shredded every Rapture drone attempting to approach.
Above them...
Firehawks darted between enemy aircraft.
Missiles found their targets with terrifying precision.
Rapture fighters erupted into fireballs one after another.
Yuuki smiled.
"...They're handling it."
He eyes Cinderella beside him. Currently passed out. Clear of any corruption.
"How long was I out?"
"Twenty minutes," Kaguya replied calmly, though her eyes never left the battlefield. "The strike team within hath near reached the end of the tail section. Jarvis hath already seized dominion over ninety percent of the internal security systems. He doth methodically dismantle the defensive protocols and... most amusingly... hath begun to turn the Mother Whale's own anti-air batteries against its drones."
Yuuki blinked, then let out a low whistle.
"...That's insane."
He leaned forward slightly, watching as several of the Mother Whale's own turrets suddenly pivoted and opened fire on its surrounding drone swarm.
Explosions rippled across the sky as friendly fire tore through Rapture formations.
Yuuki smirked.
"Jarvis really doesn't waste time, huh?"
Another volley of anti-air fire erupted from the massive battleship, shredding a cluster of incoming drones before they could even approach.
Yuuki crossed his arms, clearly impressed.
"...I like it."
He glanced toward Kaguya with a grin.
"Efficient. Ruthless. And using their own weapons against them?"
He chuckled.
"Yeah... that's exactly how we should be fighting."
Kaguya's smile deepened slightly.
"It would seem thy creations have inherited thy... rather pragmatic nature."
Yuuki shrugged casually.
"If it works, it works."
He looked back toward the battlefield, eyes sharp with approval.
"Tell Jarvis to keep pushing."
"And once he hits one hundred percent control..."
A confident grin spread across his face.
"...I want that entire ship turned into our weapon."
Then...
Something else caught his attention.
Farther away...
Space itself distorted repeatedly.
Blue Chronosphere flashes illuminated the battlefield.
"...Vergil..."
Yuuki muttered.
"What is he doing now?"
As if answering the question...
A Chronocopter descended beside a disabled Rapture tank.
Its temporal beam struck the vehicle.
The tank instantly became encased in shimmering blue chronal ice.
Unable to move.
Unable to self-destruct.
Moments later...
Transport drones arrived to tow it away.
Nearby...
Another Chronocopter froze a Rapture jet in mid-flight.
The aircraft simply hung motionless in the air before capture teams surrounded it.
Elsewhere...
Cryocopters swept across the battlefield.
Their freezing beams immobilized intact combat drones.
Heavy walkers.
Missile platforms.
Even several previously unseen Rapture variants.
Yuuki stared for a moment.
"...He's collecting live samples."
Kaguya covered a smile behind her sleeve.
"This wife believes thy Vice Commander became rather excited after obtaining the Mother's research."
Yuuki laughed quietly.
"...That sounds exactly like Vergil."
Across the fleet communications, Vergil's calm voice finally arrived.
"Yo..."
"Good to see you're awake."
Yuuki smirked.
"I leave for a few minutes..."
"...and you start stealing the enemy's entire army?"
Vergil didn't even sound embarrassed.
"They possess valuable research specimens."
"It would be inefficient to destroy everything."
Yuuki stood up and stretched his shoulders.
His Mark 86 armor folded back into place around him with a series of metallic clicks.
He glanced once toward the peacefully sleeping Cinderella.
"...Sleep well."
"We'll talk when you wake up."
Kaguya stood beside him.
"My dearest?"
Yuuki nodded.
"Kaguya."
"Let's return to the strike group."
She immediately smiled.
"Yes, dearest~!"
Without hesitation she wrapped both arms around his.
Her ten purple tails happily swayed behind her.
Yuuki looked toward the surrounding Iron Legions.
"Legions."
The machines immediately turned toward him.
"Escort Cinderella back to the Daedalus."
"Take her directly to the Medical Bay."
"Protect her until I return."
The Legion Commander saluted.
"Yes, sir."
One Brute Iron Legion carefully knelt.
Despite its enormous size, it gently lifted Cinderella into its armored hands with remarkable care.
Another Legion collected her damaged shield-riggings and weapon platforms.
Not a single piece would be left behind.
Yuuki gave an approving nod.
"Good."
He tapped the side of his helmet.
"Verg."
The communicator crackled.
"Mind teleporting us back to the strike force?"
A familiar chuckle answered.
"Already charging the Chronosphere."
"Stand by."
Blue chronal energy immediately gathered around Yuuki and Kaguya.
A small spherical field expanded around them.
Yuuki lowered his visor.
The Mark 86 helmet sealed with a hiss.
Beside him...
Kaguya's Echo Suit activated.
Nanofibers flowed across her kimono, carefully enveloping her tails, body and head in a protective layer suitable for Chronosphere transport.
She smiled excitedly.
"This wife never grows accustomed to this peculiar sensation."
Vergil's voice counted down.
"Three..."
"Two..."
"One..."
Chronoshift.
The blue sphere collapsed inward.
Both figures vanished.
Only a ripple in space remained.
Deep within the Mother Whale...
The strike force had reached the enormous tail section.
Collapsed corridors stretched for kilometers behind them.
Steel Fortresses stood at the head of the formation.
The four Toukuiis guarded the flanks.
Twenty-one Nayutas maintained overlapping firing positions.
Yuu continuously monitored battlefield data.
Ash and Ember led the advance toward the final objective.
"Almost there," Ash said quietly.
"The prisoner sector should be beyond this bulkhead."
Suddenly—
Space distorted.
A small blue Chronosphere sphere materialized in the center of the formation.
Several Nayuta clones instinctively raised their rifles.
The Toukuiis shifted into defensive stances.
The Steel Fortresses rotated their main cannons.
Then the familiar chronal energy dispersed.
Yuuki stepped out first.
Kaguya followed immediately afterward, still holding onto his arm.
Neon grinned from atop the first Steel Fortress.
"Commander!"
"You're back!"
Atago smiled brightly.
"Ara~"
"Welcome back, Shikikan-sama."
Takao gave a relieved nod.
"It seems your mission succeeded."
Yuu adjusted her glasses.
She scanned Yuuki once before smiling.
"...Judging by your expression..."
"Cinderella accepted it."
Yuuki nodded.
"She did."
"And she's resting safely aboard the Daedalus."
Ash quietly observed him for a moment.
"...Then..."
"...there is one less Heretic in the world."
Yuuki looked toward the massive sealed doors at the end of the tail section.
His expression sharpened.
"Now."
He rested a hand on the hilt of his sword.
"Let's finish this rescue mission."
A broken loudspeaker mounted high on the corridor wall suddenly crackled to life.
Static hissed.
Then Behemoth's furious voice echoed throughout the tail section.
"BASTARD!"
"DON'T THINK WE'LL FORGET THIS!"
"You stole Anachiro from us!"
"You'll pay for this!"
Yuuki didn't even bother looking toward the speaker.
He casually waved one hand.
"Yeah..."
"...yeah."
"Keep yapping."
He turned his attention back to the strike force as though nothing had happened.
Several girls couldn't help but chuckle.
Neon laughed.
"Commander just ignored a Heretic!"
Anis grinned.
"That had to sting."
Even Ash allowed herself a tiny smile.
"...She's furious."
A soft chime echoed through everyone's HUD.
LEVEL UP!
Current Level: 31
System Shop Unlocked
+1 Super Upgrade Point Awarded
The entire strike force instinctively opened their holographic interfaces.
Dozens of translucent menus appeared throughout the corridor.
Neon's eyes immediately sparkled.
"THE SHOP!"
"I FINALLY HAVE A SHOP!"
She began scrolling at incredible speed.
"Oh!"
"Energy Capacitors!"
"Heavy Missile Pods!"
"Enhanced Cooling!"
"Commander!"
"There's so much!"
Anis whistled.
"...Whoa."
"They're selling reactor upgrades now."
Rapi calmly browsed another category.
"Armor reinforcement."
"Advanced weapon calibration."
"Tactical processors..."
"There are hundreds of upgrades."
Eugen smirked.
"...And all of them are ridiculously expensive."
Takao quietly nodded.
"So now we understand why our salaries continue increasing."
Atago laughed.
"We're going to become very poor."
Akashi's eyes practically became stars.
"Nyaa!"
"So many shiny upgrades!"
"I want all of them!"
Yuu smiled while examining her own interface.
"As expected."
"The System Shop scales alongside our progression."
"Each level unlocks additional technologies."
Ash looked over Atago's shoulder.
"...This..."
"...is your Leveling System?"
Takao nodded proudly.
"One part of it."
"The levels make us stronger."
"The shop lets us decide how we grow."
Ember silently watched the scrolling upgrade lists.
"...Remarkable."
Meanwhile...
A completely different notification appeared before Nayuta.
LEVEL UP
Level 26
She casually dismissed it.
Around the battlefield...
Twenty-six identical Nayutas were now active.
Several remained with the strike force.
Others had already dispersed through nearby corridors.
One squad systematically hunted isolated Rapture patrols.
Another eliminated defensive positions.
A third escorted captured prisoners toward safer routes.
Every clone continuously generated combat experience.
Every bit of that experience flowed back to the original.
Yuu could only shake her head.
"...She's broken."
Nayuta smiled innocently.
"My apologies."
"It appears my clones are rather... efficient."
Another notification appeared.
Experience Received
Shared Combat Data Synchronized
Neon stared.
"...Wait..."
"You sent your clones away just to farm experience?"
Nayuta nodded as if it were obvious.
"Indeed."
"While I accompany everyone here..."
"My sisters continue eliminating hostiles elsewhere."
"Experience should never be wasted."
Even Ash blinked.
"...That..."
"...is an absurd ability."
Ember quietly folded her arms.
"...No wonder she reached Level Twenty-Six so quickly."
One of Nayuta's clones returned carrying a damaged Rapture processor.
She saluted.
"Sector Seven secured."
Another clone arrived moments later.
"Sector Nine cleared."
A third appeared from a ventilation shaft.
"Two hundred fourteen additional hostiles eliminated."
Nayuta politely bowed.
"My sisters have been most productive."
The excitement surrounding the newly unlocked System Shop quickly settled into focused planning.
After the initial shock...
The girls realized something important.
They didn't need to buy the expensive upgrades immediately.
There were plenty of affordable E-Rank Installable Upgrades.
Small improvements.
Incremental enhancements.
The kind that gradually built toward something much greater.
Neon immediately filtered the shop.
"E-Rank only..."
"Ooh!"
"These are actually affordable!"
A list appeared before her.
Enhanced Capacitors I — 1,200 Credits
Increases energy weapon stability by 3%.
Reinforced Barrel Lining — 900 Credits
Reduces weapon wear.
Smart Reload Module — 1,000 Credits
Slightly improves reload speed.
Micro Servo Package — 1,500 Credits
Improves weapon tracking.
Neon's eyes sparkled.
"I can actually buy these!"
Anis laughed.
"Now that's more my budget."
Rapi quietly nodded.
"Small improvements add up."
"I'll start with recoil compensation."
Belfast calmly selected several upgrades.
"Enhanced cleaning drones..."
"...Improved ammunition storage..."
"...Efficient logistics."
"As expected."
"The most practical choices."
"Of course," Belfast replied with a composed smile.
The carrier girls quickly found themselves browsing an entirely different section.
Installable Carrier Rigging Modules that function separately from standard upgrade trees, allowing flexible part changes and equipment swaps at any time.
Enterprise slowly scrolled.
"...Aircraft Launch Optimization."
"Improved flight deck recovery."
"Enhanced targeting network."
Yorktown nodded thoughtfully.
"These improve sortie efficiency."
"Exactly what we need."
Illustrious smiled.
However, when she saw the cost. Illustrious sighs
"I suppose my old planes will have to serve a little longer."
Wales looked pleasantly surprised.
"Oh?"
"There are command rigging enhancements."
"Battleship Gun Modules..."
"Long-range targeting uplink..."
She smiled.
"I rather like these."
Akagi immediately purchased one.
Rigging Fire-Control Processor I
Purchased
"Oh?"
"It already synchronized with my rigging."
Kaga quietly purchased another.
Aircraft Fuel Optimization I
"Launch efficiency increased by three percent."
She looked genuinely impressed.
"The changes are immediate."
Meanwhile...
The mission rewards continued updating.
Daily missions.
Combat missions.
Long-term objectives.
Elite kills.
Rapture extermination bonuses.
Captured equipment rewards.
The numbers climbed rapidly.
+500 Credits
+2,000 Credits
Daily Mission Complete
Long-Term Mission Progress
Combat Bonus Awarded
Everyone's balances increased simultaneously.
Then—
A large notification appeared.
MISSION REWARDS CLAIMED
Current Available Credits
30,842
Silence.
Akashi stared at the number.
Her pupils shrank.
"..."
"Nyaa..."
"...Thirty..."
"...Thousand?"
She slowly swayed.
"Nyaa..."
"So..."
"...much..."
Money.
She fainted.
THUD
Vestal immediately sighed.
"Akashi."
"Not again."
The green cat simply lay on the floor.
Tiny stars circling above her head.
"Nyaa..."
"So many credits..."
"So many upgrades..."
"I can finally buy tools..."
Neon crouched beside her.
"...She actually fainted."
Anis laughed so hard she had to hold onto her rifle.
"Commander!"
"You broke the cat!"
Akashi suddenly shot upright.
Eyes blazing with determination.
"Commander!"
"We need MORE missions!"
"MORE CREDITS!"
"I've only seen the first page!"
"There are fifty-three more pages of upgrades!"
Everyone burst into laughter.
Even Yuuki couldn't help smiling.
"I had a feeling..."
He looked around at the girls excitedly comparing purchases.
"...the System Shop would become everyone's new hobby."
Yuu quietly folded her arms.
"Not a hobby."
She smiled.
"A healthy investment strategy."
"Every inexpensive upgrade purchased today..."
"...reduces the cost of surviving tomorrow."
The strike force nodded in agreement.
For the first time...
Thirty thousand credits no longer looked like an impossible fortune.
It looked like...
A very good beginning.
The System Shop continued filling the girls' vision with countless upgrade paths.
For now...
Only E-Class Installable Modules were available.
Nothing extravagant.
Nothing capable of changing the battlefield overnight.
But every module represented a permanent improvement.
Yuuki folded his arms.
"Don't underestimate E-Class equipment."
"Three percent today..."
"...becomes thirty percent after enough upgrades."
The girls immediately began browsing more carefully.
Neon excitedly pointed at one module.
"Oh!"
"High-Efficiency Energy Generator I!"
"Commander!"
"It replaces our old oil generators!"
Yuu nodded.
"Correct."
"The generator converts your riggings to use a standard energy interface."
"The New Element Arc Reactor itself is an S-Class system, far beyond what is currently available."
"No more conventional fuel."
"Better operational time."
"Cleaner energy output."
"And..."
She smiled.
"Three percent higher overall power efficiency."
Neon immediately hit purchase.
Purchased
The module dissolved into particles of light before integrating directly into her equipment.
Her weapon systems briefly flickered as internal components recalibrated with a soft mechanical hum.
A faint glow pulsed along the weapon's frame, indicating the newly installed energy core had synchronized successfully.
Neon blinked.
"...It already installed itself?"
She flexed her shoulders.
"...It's lighter."
"And..."
"My reactor output increased."
She grinned.
"I like this shop."
Anis purchased another module.
Ballistic Weapon Enhancement Module I
A small notification appeared.
Weapon Damage +3%
She smiled.
"Only three percent..."
"But free damage is still damage."
Rapi quietly installed:
Precision Stabilizer I
Accuracy +3%
Belfast selected:
High-Speed Loading Assist I
Reload Speed +3%
Takao chose:
Servo Reinforcement I
Melee Power +3%
Atago purchased:
Agility Thruster Package I
Movement Speed +3%
Maya installed an improved targeting processor.
Choukai upgraded her blade actuators.
Even the small percentage increases immediately synchronized with their riggings.
The changes were subtle.
But noticeable.
The carrier section remained just as busy.
Enterprise quietly examined another installable module.
Aircraft Guidance Processor I
Aircraft Accuracy +3%
Purchased.
Immediately...
The tactical displays inside her rigging updated.
"My aircraft response time..."
"...improved."
Yorktown selected:
Deck Launch Accelerator I
Launch Speed +3%
Illustrious reluctantly closed another window.
"...The advanced modules are still too expensive."
She smiled anyway.
"For now..."
"...I'll improve what I already have."
Wales purchased a command module.
Fleet Command Uplink I
Fleet Coordination +3%
She looked pleasantly surprised.
"The synchronization with nearby allies..."
"...is smoother."
Akagi installed:
Spiritual Energy Converter I
Kaga chose:
Carrier Reactor Stabilizer I
Both immediately felt their riggings operating more efficiently.
Nearby...
Ash and Ember quietly watched.
Neither spoke.
Every purchase.
Every installation.
Every percentage increase.
They watched the girls becoming stronger in real time.
Not through years of combat.
Not through suffering.
Simply...
By progressing.
Ember finally sighed.
"...I'm jealous."
Ash gave a small nod.
"So am I."
She watched Atago happily testing her upgraded rigging.
Takao checking her sword output.
Enterprise recalibrating her aircraft.
Even Nayuta quietly distributing upgrades among herself as she leveled up while her clones continued farming.
"...This system..."
"...changes everything."
Nayuta set her sights on reaching Level 30—just four more levels before she could access the shop.
Yuu overheard them and smiled.
"You'll have yours soon enough."
Ash looked toward her.
"...Once we bring the others out."
Yuu nodded.
"Exactly."
"Escort the META Shipgirls to safety."
"Convince them."
"No coercion."
"No lies."
"When all of you are ready..."
"I'll personally perform compatibility examinations."
"And then..."
She smiled confidently.
"I'll install the Leveling System."
Ember folded her arms.
"...We're looking forward to that day."
Ash looked around once more.
The GDI girls laughed as they experimented with their newly upgraded equipment.
Small improvements.
Just three percent.
Yet every one of them looked noticeably more confident than before.
Ash quietly smiled.
"...It won't be long."
She looked toward Ember.
"We get our sisters out first."
"Then..."
She glanced at Yuuki, who was already discussing the next assault plan with Yorktown and Vergil.
"...We'll finally come home."
Yuuki looked toward the massive blast doors leading deeper into the tail section.
Beyond them...
According to Jarvis...
The prisoners awaited.
He turned toward the assembled strike force.
"Everyone."
He pointed toward the blast door.
"You're coming with me."
Several smiles immediately appeared.
"We're finally meeting them?" Rapi asked.
Yuuki nodded.
"If everything goes according to plan..."
"...yes."
He looked toward the Steel Fortresses.
"Nimi."
"Rapi."
"Hipper."
"Place the Steel Fortresses into standby."
The three commanders immediately acknowledged.
"Roger!"
The enormous walkers slowly lowered themselves.
Hydraulic locks engaged.
CLUNK!
Heavy stabilizers anchored into the deck.
Main cannons remained elevated.
Missile launchers stayed loaded.
Sensor arrays continued scanning every corridor.
They had become immovable fortresses guarding the rear.
Yuuki nodded approvingly.
"Maintain defensive overwatch."
"If anything comes through..."
"You know what to do."
Neon grinned.
"Oh, we'll definitely know."
Yuuki then turned toward the towering mechanized samurai.
"Toukuii."
The four giant mechs immediately straightened.
Their glowing optics shifted toward him.
"On guard."
"Standby mode."
They confirmed simultaneously.
"Understood."
The massive laser katanas folded into resting position.
Missile ports remained closed.
However...
Their sensors continued tracking every movement nearby.
Should a single hostile approach...
They would activate instantly.
"Nayuta."
"Yes, great hero?"
Yuuki smiled slightly.
"Defensive formation."
Nayuta bowed politely.
"As you wish."
The original stepped beside him.
The remaining clones dispersed with flawless coordination.
Several immediately moved deeper into the Mother Whale's interior.
Others slipped into maintenance shafts and side corridors.
A few remained behind to maintain minimal defensive coverage.
The rest advanced in hunting formations, sweeping through the structure.
Twenty-six identical Nikkes quietly became a roaming extermination force, systematically hunting Raptures to gather experience.
Ash couldn't help smiling.
"...An army..."
"...made from one girl."
Ember nodded.
"And every one of them keeps getting stronger."
The remaining Shipgirls also moved into position.
The shipgirls inside Daedalus watched everything through the live feed.
Enterprise deployed her aircraft overhead to patrol outside the Mother Whale.
Yorktown synchronized with the security network Jarvis had seized.
Belfast calmly organized overlapping defensive sectors.
Akashi immediately began checking ammunition reserves.
Vestal verified everyone's condition one final time.
Even Kaguya remained beside Yuuki, one hand resting lightly upon her sword.
The formation became a fortress in itself.
Yuuki looked around one last time.
Satisfied.
"Good."
"The rear is secured."
He faced the sealed bulkhead.
"Jarvis."
"Status."
The AI immediately replied.
"Security control: Ninety-two percent."
"The final blast door is no longer under enemy authority."
"I can open it whenever you give the order."
Yuuki nodded once.
"Do it."
The enormous locking mechanisms began turning.
Massive steel bolts slowly withdrew from the reinforced door.
A deep metallic rumble echoed through the Mother Whale.
Everyone instinctively tightened their grip on their weapons.
Beyond those doors...
Were the people they had crossed an entire fortress to rescue.
The final blast doors slowly parted.
Steam burst from the seals.
A harsh red warning light flooded the chamber beyond.
The moment there was enough space—
BRRRRRRT!!
Rows of Rapture security droids immediately opened fire.
Laser bolts.
Machine-gun rounds.
Micro-missiles.
Without a word...
Yuuki and Yuu stepped forward together.
Both raised a hand.
Dozens of missile ports silently unfolded across their armor.
Micro Missile System Online
"Fire."
Hundreds of miniature missiles streaked into the laboratory.
Each independently selected a target.
BOOM!
BOOM!
BOOM!
Every missile struck a different security droid.
The explosions were precise.
Contained.
One missile.
One target.
Within seconds...
The entire security force had been annihilated.
Burning wreckage littered the laboratory floor.
Silence followed.
Then...
Everyone slowly stepped inside.
The room was enormous.
Hundreds of transparent containment cylinders lined both sides of the chamber.
Blue liquid filled every tube.
Countless cables connected directly into the prisoners.
The atmosphere immediately became heavy.
Yuuki slowly looked around.
"...They've been using them as research subjects."
The Sakura Empire girls suddenly froze.
Inside the first four tubes...
Floated familiar faces.
"Shoukaku..."
"Zuikaku..."
"Hiryuu..."
"Souryuu..."
Akagi covered her mouth as she saw the live feed.
"They're alive..."
Kaga quietly lowered her head in relief.
"...Thank goodness."
Not far away...
Two more cylinders.
Pennsylvania.
Arizona.
Enterprise smiled faintly.
"We found them."
Yorktown nodded.
"We're bringing everyone home."
Then—
Yuuki suddenly blinked.
"...Wait."
His eyes moved toward another section.
His expression immediately brightened.
"...Elves!"
Everyone looked at him.
Standing within another pair of tubes...
Two elegant women with long pointed ears.
Centaur.
Albion.
Yuuki pointed without hiding his excitement.
"Yuu!"
"Look!"
"They're elves!"
Yuu's eyes immediately sparkled.
"They really are!"
"I've only seen their files!"
"They're even prettier in person!"
Several girls couldn't help laughing despite the grim situation.
Even Wales smiled.
"You two certainly have unusual priorities."
Farther inside...
Three massive containment cylinders stood apart from the others.
Their sheer size reflected the enormous riggings contained within.
Hipper stopped walking.
"...No..."
Eugen's confident smile disappeared.
Nimi slowly reached out toward the glass.
Behind it...
Suspended peacefully...
Were the pride of Iron Blood.
Friedrich der Große.
Hindenburg.
Mecklenburg.
For several long seconds...
None of the three could speak.
Hipper's eyes became wet.
"...Mother Fleet..."
Eugen quietly touched the glass.
"...We've finally found you."
Nimi lowered her head.
"...We'll take you home."
Elsewhere...
Rapi had already begun searching another section.
She stopped before three neighboring tubes.
Emma.
Vesti.
Then...
The final cylinder.
Rapi slowly raised her hand.
"...Eunhwa..."
Her former squad leader floated silently within the blue liquid.
Unmoving.
Exactly as she remembered.
"...We're here."
"You don't have to fight anymore."
Not far away...
Cocoa immediately led the Royal Maid squad.
"This way!"
Ade and Soda followed closely.
Belfast remained calm despite the urgency.
They arrived before two more containment chambers.
Cocoa smiled through tears.
"...Velvet."
Beside her...
Another familiar Nikke rested peacefully.
"...Privaty."
Soda placed both hands against the glass.
"We finally found you..."
Ade quietly nodded.
"...The Maid Squad..."
"...is together again."
Throughout the enormous laboratory...
The rescue team found themselves no longer looking at prisoners.
They were looking at friends.
Comrades.
Family.
And every single one of them...
"...Jarvis."
Yuuki stepped forward.
"Release them."
"Will do, sir."
The AI immediately took complete control of the laboratory.
Across the chamber...
Every containment console switched from crimson...
...to blue.
ACCESS OVERRIDDEN
SECURITY BYPASSED
RELEASING CONTAINMENT SUBJECTS
Heavy locking mechanisms disengaged one after another.
CLUNK
CLUNK
CLUNK
The tubes slowly rotated forward.
Blue preservation fluid drained into the floor.
Air rushed inside.
HISSSSSSS...
The transparent fronts slid open.
The unconscious prisoners slowly fell forward.
But they never reached the ground.
Takao caught Shoukaku without hesitation.
Atago moved just as swiftly, catching Zuikaku. Ember help her out and Atago silently thanked her alternate sister.
Maya stepped in to catch Hiryuu.
Choukai secured Souryuu before she could fall.
The rescue team moved with practiced precision, ensuring no one struck the metal floor.
Yuu was already moving.
"Portable Med Bays."
Four compact capsules unfolded from storage ports on her Mark 49 armor.
They rapidly expanded.
Mechanical arms unfolded.
Diagnostic scanners activated.
Portable Medical Unit Online
"Place them here."
The first four occupied the Sakura Empire carriers.
Shoukaku.
Zuikaku.
Hiryuu.
Souryuu.
Soft white light scanned over each of them.
"Stable..."
Yuu muttered while reading the diagnostics.
"Malnourished."
"Energy depleted."
"Minor neural suppression."
"No permanent structural damage."
She smiled.
"They'll recover."
====================
Inside Shoukaku's mind...
They are at the illusory village
The illusion shimmered into existence.
Warm sunlight bathed a peaceful village.
Shoukaku slowly opened her eyes.
"...Huh?"
She looked around.
The prison surrounding her was dissolving.
The chains wrapped around her heart shattered one after another.
She felt...
Warmth.
Hope.
Then...
She sensed familiar presences approaching.
Her eyes widened.
"They..."
A smile slowly spread across her face.
"They really came..."
Tears filled her eyes.
"They came for us..."
Nearby...
Zuikaku slowly became aware of the same warmth.
She opened her eyes within her own fading mindscape.
"...Shoukaku-nee..."
She looked upward.
Bright blue skies stretched endlessly above her.
"...They came..."
She laughed softly through tears.
"...The Commander..."
"...Everyone..."
"...You actually found us."
Another prison shattered.
Souryuu quietly lifted her head.
For so long...
She had prepared herself never to awaken again.
Yet now...
She heard familiar voices calling to her.
"...We're..."
"...going home?"
A gentle smile appeared.
"...Finally..."
Hiryuu opened her eyes last.
She looked around the collapsing darkness.
Then laughed quietly.
"...Heh..."
"So..."
"They really pulled it off."
Her grin slowly widened.
"I knew..."
"...they wouldn't leave us behind."
As the last of the darkness disappeared...
All four of them felt the same thing.
Hope.
For the first time since their capture...
They no longer felt alone.
They knew...
Someone had finally reached them.
===================
Laffey stepped forward just as another containment chamber finished draining.
The front panel slid open.
Pennsylvania's unconscious body began to fall.
Laffey caught her gently before she touched the floor.
"...Got you."
Nearby, Ash moves to the next chamber.
Arizona slowly collapsed forward.
She caught Arizona.
Despite not being able to feel for now, at least she can make a difference in saving this one.
The rescued Shipgirls had been stripped of everything during their imprisonment.
Without a word...
Laffey removed a folded towel from an emergency medical kit and carefully draped it over Pennsylvania.
The Bulins quickly wrapped another towel around Arizona before helping carry her toward the medical station.
Vestal was already waiting.
"Place them here."
The portable Med Bays automatically adjusted.
Soft restraints secured both patients.
Diagnostic lights swept across their bodies.
Life Signs: Stable
Nutritional Deficiency: Moderate
Mental Stress: Severe
Neural Suppression: Active
Vestal silently read each report.
Then she paused when Arizona's neurological scan appeared.
"...So that's what they did."
Yuu stepped beside her.
"What is it?"
Vestal enlarged the brainwave display.
"Psychological trauma."
"Repeated stress exposure."
"Forced neural suppression."
"But..."
She smiled faintly.
"The Med Bay has already begun repairing the damaged neural pathways."
Arizona's brainwave pattern slowly stabilized.
"The traumatic feedback is being removed."
"When she wakes..."
Vestal gently adjusted Arizona's blanket.
"...it will simply feel like she experienced a very long sleep."
Laffey quietly smiled.
"Good..."
Across the laboratory...
Another containment chamber opened.
Centaur slipped forward.
Javelin caught her immediately.
"I've got you!"
She carefully held the unconscious carrier.
"Easy..."
Yuu meanwhile activated another release sequence.
Albion's chamber opened.
She gently caught the Royal Navy carrier before floating her onto another waiting medical bed.
The portable Med Bays expanded again.
New scanners activated.
Another series of reassuring green lights appeared.
=============================
Inside the illusionary village...
After Shoukaku...
Zuikaku...
Hiryuu...
And Souryuu...
Had disappeared into the warm light...
Two more figures stood together beneath the peaceful sky.
Pennsylvania looked toward Arizona.
"...Looks like..."
"...it's finally our turn."
Arizona smiled softly.
"...We're finally going to be free."
She looked toward the village they had shared with the others for so long.
"...I was beginning to think..."
"...we'd never leave."
Pennsylvania folded her arms with a small smile.
"Whoever rescued us..."
"I'm following them."
She glanced toward Arizona.
"...I suppose you already made the same decision."
Arizona nodded immediately.
"Without hesitation."
"They crossed all this way..."
"...to save complete strangers."
She smiled warmly.
"...I want to know those people."
The two turned toward the remaining Shipgirls and Nikkes still gathered within the peaceful village.
Pennsylvania raised a hand.
"...Looks like we're leaving first."
Arizona bowed politely.
"We'll be waiting for everyone outside."
One by one...
Golden light surrounded both sisters.
Their bodies slowly became translucent.
Arizona looked back one final time.
"...See you soon."
Pennsylvania smiled confidently.
"Don't keep us waiting."
The light gently carried them upward.
They disappeared together.
Silence briefly returned to the village.
Then...
Two more figures began glowing.
Centaur looked down at the golden light surrounding her.
"...Ah..."
"So it's our turn."
Beside her...
Albion smiled with quiet relief.
"...The rescue party finally reached us."
The warm light surrounding both Royal Navy carriers grew brighter.
Their long imprisonment...
Was finally coming to an end.
=======================
One by one...
The remaining containment chambers unlocked.
The first enormous cylinder slowly opened.
Blue fluid drained away.
Friedrich der Große's unconscious body gently leaned forward.
Eugen immediately stepped in.
"...Mother."
She carefully caught the towering battleship before she could fall.
Despite Friedrich's size, Eugen held her with surprising care.
A towel was quickly wrapped around her before she was transferred toward another waiting portable Med Bay.
Nearby...
Another chamber released its occupant.
Hindenburg.
Hipper caught her with both arms.
"...We've got you."
She smiled through watery eyes.
"...You're finally safe."
The final Iron Blood chamber hissed open.
Mecklenburg slowly fell forward.
Nimi caught her without hesitation.
"We're taking you home."
Three more portable Med Bays unfolded.
Their diagnostic scanners immediately activated.
Life Signs: Stable
Extended Nutritional Deficiency Detected
Neural Suppression Reversing
Recovery Prognosis: Excellent
Yuu nodded with satisfaction.
"No irreversible damage."
"They'll recover."
Cocoa carefully approached another containment pod.
The chamber opened.
Privaty slowly collapsed forward.
"I've got her."
Cocoa gently supported the unconscious Nikke before covering her with a towel.
"Welcome back."
Soda smiled quietly.
"We finally found you."
Ade carefully helped transfer Privaty onto another medical bed.
Within the illusionary village...
The peaceful breeze continued carrying flower petals through the air.
Golden light suddenly surrounded three elegant figures.
Friedrich looked down at herself.
Then smiled with quiet grace.
"...Alas..."
"...we are finally going home."
Her crimson eyes lifted toward the blue sky.
"...How long..."
"...has it been?"
Nearby...
Hindenburg slowly opened her hands.
The golden light reflected across her palms.
"...Contractor..."
A faint smile appeared.
"...You finally did it."
She quietly closed her fingers.
"...I knew..."
"...you would come."
Not far away...
Mecklenburg laughed brightly.
At long last...
A genuine laugh.
"Free!"
She spun happily beneath the sunlight.
"Hahaha!"
"I can finally leave this place!"
Her excitement made several of the remaining prisoners smile.
One after another...
Golden light carried the three Iron Blood battleships upward.
Before disappearing...
Friedrich looked toward those still waiting.
"We shall await you."
Hindenburg nodded.
"Hold on."
Mecklenburg waved enthusiastically.
"See you outside!"
Then...
They vanished.
The peaceful village became quieter once again.
Only the remaining Nikkes remained.
Five figures.
Watching.
Waiting.
Then...
Privaty suddenly looked down.
Soft golden light surrounded her body.
"...Oh..."
A small smile appeared.
"So..."
"...it's my turn."
She looked toward Velvet.
Then Emma.
Vesti.
Eunhwa.
"...I'll be going first."
She gave them a reassuring smile.
"...Don't worry."
"We're almost out."
The golden light carried her gently upward.
One by one...
The prisoners trapped within the illusionary village...
Were finally finding their way home.
The peaceful village grew quieter.
Only the remaining Nikkes stood beneath the warm sunlight.
Emma stretched her arms with a gentle smile.
"...I have to admit..."
"...I'm going to miss this place."
Eunhwa turned toward her with a deadpan expression.
"...You miss prison?"
Emma laughed softly.
"Well..."
"It was a prison."
"But..."
She looked around the peaceful village.
"It was quiet."
"There wasn't any fighting."
"No explosions."
"No alarms."
She smiled wistfully.
"I'll miss the peace."
Then her smile brightened.
"But I miss eating proper food even more."
She clasped her hands together.
"And I miss all of our old friends."
Vesti couldn't help laughing.
"Pfft..."
"That's definitely Emma."
Nearby...
Velvet folded her arms.
Emma turned toward her with a playful smile.
"Oh."
"And Velvet."
"You can finally wear some decent clothes again."
Velvet's cheeks immediately turned red.
"I told you already!"
"It's not like I wanted to wear this outfit!"
Vesti giggled.
"It looked cute though."
"It was not cute!"
"It was embarrassing!"
Emma covered her mouth, trying not to laugh.
"I'll make you something nicer."
"...Promise."
Velvet sighed dramatically.
"...Fine."
"But this time..."
"...I'm choosing."
The group laughed together.
For the first time in what felt like forever...
It sounded normal.
Then...
Warm golden light began surrounding them.
Emma looked down at herself.
"...Looks like it's our turn."
Vesti smiled brightly.
"...Freedom."
Eunhwa quietly closed her eyes.
"...Finally."
She opened them again.
"The first thing I'm doing..."
"...is finding Rapi."
Vesti nodded immediately.
"We all are."
Emma smiled warmly.
"I've missed her."
Velvet turned toward the Maid Squad's direction beyond the village.
"...Ade."
"...Cocoa."
"...Soda."
She smiled.
"I'm finding the three of you the moment I wake up."
"You'd better not disappear before I get there."
The golden light surrounding all five Nikkes became brighter.
Emma raised one hand with her usual gentle smile.
"See everyone outside."
Vesti laughed.
"Race you there."
Eunhwa simply nodded once.
"...Let's go home."
One after another...
Emma.
Vesti.
Eunhwa.
Velvet.
The remaining prisoners dissolved into warm golden light.
The illusionary village...
Having fulfilled its purpose...
Began fading into countless shimmering particles.
No prisoners remained.
Only silence.
And beyond that silence...
The promise of waking up to a world where friends were waiting for them once again.
==================
The last four medical examinations completed almost simultaneously.
Green indicators lit up across every portable Med Bay.
Neural Restoration: Complete
Corruption: None Detected
Vital Signs: Stable
Vestal blinked.
"...That was fast."
She looked between the monitors in disbelief.
"When Wales..."
"...Nimi..."
"...Eldridge..."
"...and Sandy were rescued..."
"They remained unconscious for days."
Yuu smiled while adjusting one of the scanners.
"They weren't sleeping."
Vestal looked over.
"They were awake the entire time."
"They simply couldn't return to their bodies." Yuuki assumed.
"Shoukaku explained it."
"They were all gathered inside a shared mindscape."
"This wasn't healing."
"It was a transfer."
Vestal nodded. "So, their consciousness simply needed to reconnect with their physical bodies."
She looked toward everyone nearby.
"Help them sit up."
"They'll probably have trouble controlling their bodies for a few minutes."
"Muscle coordination needs to resynchronize."
Everyone immediately nodded.
The first Med Bay chimed.
Shoukaku's eyelids fluttered.
"...Mmm..."
She slowly opened her crimson eyes.
The bright laboratory lights made her blink repeatedly.
"...Where..."
Her vision gradually focused.
Standing before her...
Were four familiar faces.
Atago.
Takao.
Maya.
Choukai.
She stared silently.
"...Atago..."
"...Takao..."
"...Maya..."
"...Choukai..."
Her lips trembled.
"...Is this..."
"...a dream?"
Atago immediately wrapped both arms around her.
"No."
She smiled through tears.
"You're safe."
Shoukaku slowly returned the embrace.
"...You really came..."
Zuikaku slowly sat upright.
She looked around in confusion.
"...Takao?"
Takao gave her a small smile.
"...It's been a while."
"...Zuikaku."
Zuikaku simply stared.
Then laughed weakly.
"...You really haven't changed."
Beside them...
Another patient stirred.
Hiryuu slowly rubbed one eye.
"...Maya?"
Maya folded her arms with a grin.
"Welcome back."
"...Hey, Hiryuu."
Hiryuu smiled immediately.
"...Good to see you."
Souryuu quietly opened her eyes.
The first person she saw...
Was Choukai.
"...Choukai..."
She blinked several times.
"...It really is you."
Choukai nodded warmly.
"It really is."
She smiled brightly.
"Our bunny girl is back."
Souryuu couldn't help laughing.
"...I missed hearing that."
Shoukaku slowly looked around the laboratory.
Her eyes stopped on a familiar green-haired girl.
"...Akashi?"
Akashi's ears perked up.
"Nyaa!"
Shoukaku's eyes widened.
"We thought..."
"...we lost you."
Akashi proudly placed her hands on her hips.
"Akashi recovered, nyaa!"
"Shikikan recovered me..."
"...and the Bulin sisters too, nyaa!"
The three Bulins immediately saluted.
"Bulin!"
"Bulin!"
"Bulin!"
Shoukaku's eyes became watery again.
She carefully stepped forward before wrapping Akashi in a gentle hug.
"...To think..."
"...we would see you again."
Akashi happily hugged her back.
"Nyaa..."
"Akashi missed everyone too."
Zuikaku smiled warmly.
"We're really together again."
Even Hiryuu and Souryuu looked relieved seeing the little engineer safe and healthy.
Then...
Shoukaku's gaze shifted.
Standing quietly beside Yuuki...
Was a woman unlike any Shipgirl she had ever seen.
Elegant.
Graceful.
Nine magnificent fox tails slowly swayed behind her.
An overwhelming yet gentle magical presence filled the room.
Shoukaku blinked.
"...Wait..."
"...Who is she?"
Akashi immediately pointed toward the fox woman.
"That's Kaguya, nyaa."
The elegant fox lady stepped forward.
She performed a graceful bow worthy of royalty.
"Greetings."
"This one is Kaguya."
Shoukaku's eyes widened.
"...Kaguya?"
"The..."
"...Legendary Arcane Shipgirl?"
Even Zuikaku looked stunned.
"We've heard stories..."
"...but we never thought we'd actually meet you."
Hiryuu scratched her head.
"I thought you were just an old legend sailors told each other."
Souryuu nodded.
"Same."
Kaguya covered a gentle smile behind her sleeve.
"This one is simply Kaguya."
"There is little need for grand titles."
She glanced affectionately toward Yuuki.
"I merely walk alongside my dearest."
The rescued Shipgirls exchanged surprised glances.
Akashi quietly whispered with a mischievous grin,
"Shikikan's fiancée, nyaa."
The four rescued carriers simultaneously looked at Yuuki...
Then back at Kaguya.
"...Eh?"
Yuuki immediately rubbed the back of his neck.
"...It's a long story."
Kaguya simply smiled happily, her tails swishing behind her.
"This wife has all the time in the world to tell it."
"She's not the only one!"
Akagi's voice suddenly echoed through the laboratory speakers.
"Indeed." Kaga's voice followed calmly over the comms.
Several heads turned toward the source of the transmission.
Shoukaku blinked.
"...Akagi-senpai?"
A soft chuckle came through the speakers.
"Who else?"
Kaga's voice remained composed.
"Agreed."
Zuikaku's eyes widened.
"...Kaga?"
"It has been a long time..."
"...Zuikaku."
Akagi's voice carried a teasing tone.
"So..."
"The troublesome juniors have finally returned."
Shoukaku lowered her head sheepishly.
"...We've been gone for quite a while."
Kaga spoke again, her tone gentler.
"It's good to see both of you again."
Hiryuu crossed her arms with a grin.
"Heh."
"The First Carrier Division foxes."
"Glad to see you're both still alive."
Souryuu nodded.
"...Indeed."
"The Sakura Empire finally feels whole again."
The atmosphere immediately became lighter.
Years of separation seemed to disappear within moments.
Then...
Shoukaku's gaze slowly moved toward Yuuki.
Recognition appeared in her eyes.
"...Wait..."
"...You're..."
"The Shikikan-sama..."
"The one who spoke to us..."
"...inside the mindscape?"
Yuuki smiled and nodded.
"Yes."
"That was me."
"I told you..."
"...I was coming to rescue all of you."
The words were simple.
But to Shoukaku...
They meant everything.
Her composure finally broke.
Tears streamed freely down her face.
"...Thank you..."
She clutched Atago's sleeve as though afraid this moment would disappear.
"...Thank you..."
"...Thank you so much..."
"...For finding us."
"...For coming back."
"...For saving us..."
Her voice trembled with every word.
"...Thank you..."
"...Shikikan-sama..."
Atago gently held her closer, allowing her to cry.
Yuuki walked over and gently rested a hand atop Shoukaku's head.
"It's over."
"You don't have to worry anymore."
He gently patted her head.
"We'll get to know each other properly..."
"...once we're safely back aboard the Daedalus."
"For now..."
"You girls need rest."
Shoukaku looked up at him through tearful eyes.
"...Yes..."
"...Shikikan-sama."
Yuuki smiled.
"Recover at your own pace."
He looked toward the four rescued Sakura carriers.
"I still need my crane carriers..."
He smiled at Shoukaku and Zuikaku.
"...and my rabbit carriers..."
His gaze shifted toward Hiryuu and Souryuu.
"...back in fighting condition."
"So don't rush yourselves."
"Rest for as long as you need."
Hiryuu laughed weakly.
"...Heh..."
"Already assigning us work."
Souryuu smiled for what felt like the first time in years.
"...Somehow..."
"...that makes it feel like we're really home."
Around them...
The Sakura Empire Shipgirls quietly smiled.
Their family...
At long last...
Was together again.
As the reunion continued, Hiryuu's eyes drifted past Takao.
She blinked once.
Then again.
"...Takao..."
She slowly pointed toward another familiar figure standing nearby.
"...How are there..."
"...two of you?"
The rescued Sakura carriers all turned at once.
Standing a short distance away...
Another Takao quietly folded her arms.
Her expression was colder.
Her rigging darker.
Even the aura surrounding her felt different.
Atago smiled.
"That's Ember."
"Our Takao-chan's META counterpart."
Ember let out a small sigh.
"...Atago."
"You still insist on calling me that."
Atago simply grinned.
"Of course."
"You're still Takao-chan to me."
Ember shook her head, though the corner of her mouth lifted ever so slightly.
Zuikaku looked between the two Takaos.
"...So the stories were true."
Souryuu nodded slowly.
"We heard rumors..."
"...about another Takao."
Takao herself stepped beside Ember.
"We've fought each other."
"...Several times."
Hiryuu scratched her head.
"That must've been confusing."
"It was."
Maya laughed.
"Very confusing."
Choukai nodded in agreement.
"The first time I saw them together, I thought I was seeing double."
A second figure stepped forward from behind the strike force.
Ash.
Enterprise META.
Shoukaku's eyes widened again.
"...Another one?"
Atago nodded.
"That's Ash."
"Enterprise's META counterpart."
Ash gave a respectful nod.
"...Greetings."
"We're currently allied with your Shikikan."
Zuikaku looked between Ash and Ember.
"...We rarely ever saw META Shipgirls."
"...And now there are two standing right in front of us."
Ember answered calmly.
"We don't normally reveal ourselves."
"Our circumstances have changed."
Ash crossed her arms.
"Your Commander offered us something worth trusting."
Takao looked toward Ember.
"...You're really staying?"
Ember nodded.
"For now."
"Our priority remains rescuing the remaining META Shipgirls."
Ash continued.
"Once our people are safe..."
"...we'll officially join the GDI."
The rescued Sakura carriers exchanged surprised glances.
Shoukaku smiled softly.
"...Then..."
"...thank you."
Ember raised an eyebrow.
"For what?"
Shoukaku looked toward the battlefield beyond the laboratory.
"For helping rescue us."
"You didn't have to."
Ember remained silent for a moment.
Then she quietly answered.
"...No."
"We did."
"No one..."
"...should remain trapped alone."
=========
Pennsylvania slowly opened her eyes.
"...Mmm..."
Her vision remained blurry for a moment.
The first person she saw standing nearby...
Had silver hair.
A familiar military bearing.
"...Enterprise?"
Ash smiled faintly and shook her head.
"Not quite."
"I'm her META counterpart."
Pennsylvania blinked several times before recognition dawned.
"...I remember you."
"You appeared every now and then..."
"...helping us."
Ash nodded.
"When I could."
Pennsylvania slowly sat up.
"...So you're working with them now?"
"Yes."
Ash folded her arms.
"Ember and I formed an alliance with the GDI Commander."
"We have our own reasons."
Pennsylvania smiled.
"...Then..."
"...thank you."
A small voice interrupted them.
"...Sister Penn."
Pennsylvania turned.
"Laffey?"
The destroyer smiled sleepily as always.
"It really is you..."
Pennsylvania gently reached over and patted Laffey's head.
"...To think..."
"...I'd get to see you again."
Laffey closed her eyes happily beneath the gentle pat.
"Laffey missed everyone."
Nearby...
Arizona slowly stirred.
"...Laffey..."
She blinked as three familiar faces supported her from either side.
"Bulin..."
"Kurin..."
"Purin..."
The three Bulins saluted proudly.
"Bulin!"
"Kurin!"
"Purin!"
Arizona smiled weakly.
"...Thank you."
Then she looked beyond them.
"...Vestal."
The Eagle Union repair ship immediately stepped forward and embraced both sisters.
"...It's been a long while."
Pennsylvania returned the hug.
"...Too long."
Arizona nodded.
"But..."
She looked around at the growing number of familiar faces.
"Our Eagle Union family..."
"...keeps getting bigger."
Vestal smiled warmly.
"And it'll keep growing."
"We're bringing everyone home."
The two sisters then turned toward Yuuki.
Pennsylvania slowly bowed her head.
"...Commander."
"...Thank you."
"You really came for us."
Arizona nodded quietly.
"...You kept your promise."
Yuuki smiled.
"I told you I would."
He looked directly at Pennsylvania.
"I promised you."
"And..."
"I promised Hornet as well."
Pennsylvania's expression softened.
"...Is she..."
Yuuki answered honestly.
"...She's still gone."
Silence settled over the group.
Then he continued.
"But once we finish building the recovery machine..."
"...we can bring her back."
Pennsylvania slowly closed her eyes.
A faint smile appeared.
"...I miss her."
"...That annoying laugh."
Yuuki chuckled.
"So do I."
He tapped the side of his helmet.
"She's listening right now."
Pennsylvania blinked.
"...Listening?"
"Through me."
He smiled.
"She can't answer yet."
"But..."
"...she knows."
"...She knows you're safe."
Pennsylvania looked upward for a moment.
"...Then..."
She smiled through misty eyes.
"...Wait for us a little longer, Hornet."
"We're coming home together this time."
Around them, the Eagle Union girls quietly nodded.
=============
Nearby, Yuu was paying very close attention to two particular patients.
Centaur.
Albion.
She gently examined one of Centaur's long pointed ears.
"Hmm..."
"Completely biological."
She carefully ran a scanner over it.
"No artificial grafts."
"No cosmetic modifications."
"The nervous system is fully integrated."
She looked genuinely fascinated.
"So cat girls..."
She began counting on her fingers.
"Fox girls."
"Bird girls like Houshou."
"Crane girls."
"Rabbit girls..."
She smiled.
"The Tsukimimi."
"And now..."
She carefully looked at Centaur's ears again.
"...Elves."
Yuuki chuckled.
"You sound like you're collecting a biological encyclopedia."
Yuu folded her arms.
"I practically am."
"Until now..."
"Elves were purely theoretical."
"A magical humanoid race."
"But now..."
She looked back at Centaur with sparkling eyes.
"An actual Elven Shipgirl."
"I have so many questions."
At that very moment...
Centaur's eyelids fluttered.
"...Mmm..."
She slowly opened her emerald eyes.
"...Ah..."
"...Where am I...?"
Javelin immediately leaned forward.
"Centaur!"
Centaur blinked.
Her vision slowly focused.
"...Elder Javelin...?"
Javelin immediately puffed her cheeks.
"...Elder?"
"I'm still young, you know!"
Centaur immediately lowered her head.
"...Forgive me."
"It has simply been so long."
A gentle laugh followed.
"...Then..."
"...Elder Belfast?"
Belfast smiled elegantly.
"I see some things never change."
"Welcome back, Centaur."
Centaur smiled sheepishly.
"...Yes, Head Maid."
Nearby...
Albion also began waking.
"...Mmm..."
She slowly sat up with assistance from the Royal Navy girls.
Her eyes immediately found Centaur.
"...Sis?"
Centaur looked over.
"...Albion."
Albion smiled with relief.
"We made it."
She looked toward Javelin and Belfast.
"The elders came for us."
Yuuki blinked.
"...Elders?"
He looked toward Javelin.
"...Is everyone older than them called an elder?"
Javelin sighed dramatically.
"It's a Centaur habit."
"The younger generation calls everyone who served before them 'elder.'"
"But they're the ones calling us that." Javelin pointed at Centaur and Albion.
She crossed her arms.
"...Unfortunately..."
"It makes us sound ancient."
Centaur tilted her head innocently.
"...Isn't that respectful?"
Javelin pointed at herself.
"I'm barely older than you!"
Neon burst into laughter.
"Hahaha!"
"Congratulations, Elder Javelin!"
Anis immediately joined in.
"Good morning, Elder Belfast."
Even Yuuki couldn't resist.
"Elder Belfast has a nice ring to it."
Belfast maintained her perfect composure.
Only the slightest twitch at the corner of her smile betrayed her amusement.
"I believe..."
"...everyone has become rather bold today."
Albion carefully sat upright on the laboratory floor.
She looked toward Yuuki and gave a respectful bow.
"Thank you once again, Commander."
"On behalf of my sister and myself..."
"We hope to receive guidance from everyone in this fleet."
She hesitated for a moment before tilting her head.
"...Um..."
"Commander..."
"Would that also make you one of my Elders?"
Yuuki scratched his cheek.
"...Elder, huh..."
He laughed awkwardly.
"I appreciate the sentiment..."
"But 'Commander' is just fine."
Centaur looked genuinely confused.
"...It is only natural."
She spoke with complete sincerity.
"I was constructed after the Second Great War."
"I spent my early life in relative peace."
She looked around at the gathered fleet.
"To me..."
"Everyone who served before us..."
"...is an Elder."
She smiled warmly.
"Even the little destroyers."
"I remain at all of your disposal."
Yuuki let out a defeated sigh.
"...Hah..."
"I don't think I'm winning this argument."
The room chuckled.
Then Yuuki looked back at the sisters.
"A couple of elves..."
"...I have to admit..."
"...that's pretty amusing."
He looked thoughtfully at their pointed ears.
"...Maybe you can fly, too."
Centaur answered as though it were the most obvious thing in the world.
"We can."
Yuuki blinked.
"...You what?"
Albion nodded.
"Elves like ourselves..."
"Along with Hindenburg and Mecklenburg..."
"...can achieve flight through our own methods."
Yuu immediately turned around.
"...Wait."
"You can fly..."
"...without riggings?"
Centaur nodded.
"With sufficient mana."
"Our flight is magical in nature."
Kaguya looks amused. "You can use mana?"
Yuuki looked genuinely surprised.
"I thought that was impossible."
Centaur smiled politely.
"It is uncommon."
"But not impossible."
Then Albion's eyes wandered toward another familiar figure.
She gasped softly.
"...Wait..."
"...Is that..."
"...Elder Kaguya?"
Kaguya turned with her usual graceful smile.
"This one greets thee."
Albion immediately bowed.
"We have heard so much about you."
Yuuki raised an eyebrow.
"...You're famous in the Royal Navy too?"
Centaur nodded enthusiastically.
"Very much so."
"There are many questions we wish to ask."
"You are an Arcane Shipgirl."
"One born with immense magical power."
She gently touched her own chest.
"Elves possess magical aptitude as well."
Yuuki looked intrigued.
"...Only partially?"
Centaur nodded.
"Yes."
"Our mana reserves are quite small."
"We barely qualify as mages."
"We can only perform minor enchantments."
"Compared to Elder Kaguya..."
She smiled sheepishly.
"...our abilities are insignificant."
Kaguya softly laughed.
"Thou flatterest this wife."
Yuuki suddenly snapped his fingers.
"...That explains it."
Everyone looked toward him.
"So that's why Mecklenburg wanted to meet Kaguya."
"The elves naturally possess mana."
"Just..."
"...on a much smaller scale."
Centaur nodded.
"Exactly."
Yuu folded her arms thoughtfully.
Then...
A smile slowly appeared.
"...Interesting."
"Very interesting."
Everyone turned toward her.
"If elves possess a naturally formed magical core..."
She looked between Centaur, Albion, Kaguya, and the others.
"...then perhaps we can understand how it functions."
Centaur tilted her head.
"...Functions?"
Yuu nodded.
"If I can map the structure of your magical core..."
"...I might be able to recreate part of that process."
Albion's eyes widened.
"...For other Shipgirls?"
"Possibly."
Yuu answered honestly.
"They won't become Arcane Shipgirls like Kaguya."
"Her mana capacity is in an entirely different league."
Kaguya smiled modestly.
"This wife has walked that path for a long time."
Yuu continued.
"But..."
"If I can successfully imitate a small magical core..."
"...then ordinary Shipgirls could potentially develop an Intelligence Attribute."
"They might eventually learn simple reinforcement spells."
"Barrier techniques."
"Minor enchantments."
"Elemental enhancement."
She smiled with growing excitement.
"It won't rival Kaguya's true Arcane magic."
"But even basic magical support..."
"...would dramatically expand everyone's combat capabilities."
The laboratory fell silent.
Even Centaur stared at Yuu.
"...You wish..."
"...to let everyone use magic?"
Yuu smiled confidently.
"One day. To enable everyone to develop Intelligence Attribute."
"That's the goal."
Yuuki laughed quietly.
"I should've known."
"The moment you discovered elves..."
"...you were already planning the next research project."
Yuu adjusted her glasses with a proud smile.
"Of course."
"Discovery exists to be understood."
Neon's eyes sparkled the moment she heard Yuu's theory.
"...Wait."
She nearly jumped in place.
"If Doctor Yuu succeeds..."
"...we can all use magic?!"
Yuu smiled, tempering everyone's excitement.
"Not true Arcane Magic."
She gestured toward Kaguya.
"Don't compare yourselves to her."
"This lady possesses an Arcane Cube."
"Her mana reserves are vast."
"Her spells can reshape battlefields."
She turned back to the others.
"What I'm proposing is much smaller."
"You would develop a minor magical core."
"Enough to create an Intelligence Attribute."
"Simple reinforcement spells."
"Basic barriers."
"Elemental enhancement."
"Mana infusion."
"Perhaps healing support in the future."
She smiled.
"It won't make you Arcane Shipgirls."
"But even a small amount of magic..."
"...can significantly improve your combat effectiveness."
Neon's jaw dropped.
"So..."
"My firepower..."
"...can become magical firepower?!"
Yuu laughed.
"I suspected that would be your first concern."
Neon proudly pointed at herself.
"Firepower always comes first!"
Javelin tilted her head.
"Then..."
"What's the actual difference between us..."
"...and Kaguya?"
Yuuki answered instead.
"The answer lies in your cores."
He crouched and began drawing a simple diagram across a holographic display.
"You Shipgirls possess Wisdom Cubes."
"Nikkes possess Bastion Cubes."
"The Sirens utilize Metal Cubes."
"META Shipgirls possess Origin Cubes."
He finally pointed toward Kaguya.
"And Kaguya..."
"...possesses an Arcane Cube."
Kaguya gave a graceful nod.
Yuuki continued.
"The interesting part..."
"is that Wisdom Cubes naturally synchronize with external energies."
He looked toward Centaur and Albion.
"These two."
"Along with Hindenburg and Mecklenburg..."
"...already possess naturally occurring magical cores."
"They're tiny."
"But they're real."
Centaur nodded.
"Our mana reserves are limited."
"But we have always possessed them."
Yuuki smiled.
"Which means..."
"...your magical core can serve as a blueprint."
Yuu's eyes lit up.
"If I understand how those cores formed..."
"...I may eventually teach Wisdom Cubes to imitate them."
Albion blinked.
"You mean..."
"...ordinary Shipgirls could awaken mana?"
"Exactly."
Yuu answered confidently.
"They won't rival Kaguya."
"But they may eventually cast beginner-level enhancement magic."
The laboratory fell silent once again.
Even Kaguya looked intrigued by Yuu's proposal.
"This wife..."
"...would very much like to witness such research."
"Perhaps..."
"...one day this wife may even guide everyone in properly wielding magic."
A small voice suddenly interrupted.
"Indeed..."
Everyone looked around.
"...these ones do perceive a sliver of mana."
A tiny golden-winged fairy floated into view.
Oberis.
She gracefully descended before Centaur.
Almost immediately...
Another tiny fairy appeared beside her in a shower of silver light.
"Ah..."
"...this one arrives as well."
Esche smiled brightly as she landed beside Oberis.
Centaur's eyes immediately widened.
"...F-Fairies!"
Without thinking, she carefully raised both hands.
The two tiny fairies gently landed upon her palms.
Centaur stared in complete amazement.
"...Real fairies..."
Albion's eyes sparkled just as brightly.
"...Sister..."
"They're real!"
Oberis performed a graceful bow.
"Greetings..."
"...this one offers respect to fellow elves."
Esche quickly followed with her own tiny bow.
"This one is most pleased..."
"...to finally meet thee."
Centaur hurriedly lowered her head as much as her weakened body allowed.
"My apologies..."
"We would normally bow properly..."
"...but our bodies are still recovering."
Oberis smiled warmly.
"Please..."
"...there is no need."
"This one bids thee rest first."
Esche nodded in agreement.
"Indeed..."
"...this one can already sense it."
She gently touched Centaur's fingertip.
"A tiny sliver of mana..."
"...yet present."
Oberis looked toward Albion.
"This one perceives the same within thee."
"Small..."
"...yet genuine."
She then glanced toward Kaguya.
"Yet..."
"...it pales before the vast ocean contained within the Purple Fox."
Kaguya covered a soft smile behind her sleeve.
"This wife has simply lived somewhat longer."
Centaur looked curiously between the fairies.
"...You can actually sense mana?"
Esche giggled softly.
"To these ones..."
"...it is as natural as breathing."
Oberis turned toward Yuu.
"Doctor..."
Yuu looked interested.
"Yes?"
The fairy floated closer.
"These ones may be able..."
"...to assist thy research."
Yuu blinked.
"...Really?"
Oberis nodded.
"The magical cores within these two elves..."
"...can indeed be nurtured."
Esche continued excitedly.
"These ones can guide them..."
"...in circulating mana more efficiently."
"Strengthening their pathways..."
"...and increasing natural capacity."
Centaur looked surprised.
"...That is possible?"
"It is..."
Oberis answered calmly.
"Yet..."
"...thou shalt never rival Lady Kaguya."
"This one possesses magic as her very core..."
"...the source of her own life."
"No natural-born elf could reach such heights."
Kaguya laughed softly.
"Thou flatterest this wife."
Oberis shook her head.
"It is merely truth..."
"...as these ones perceive it."
She looked back toward Centaur and Albion.
"But..."
"...thou can certainly become accomplished mages."
Esche enthusiastically nodded.
"Strong enough..."
"...to stand proudly among the spellcasters of Aman Continent."
The laboratory fell silent.
Even Yuu looked genuinely excited.
"...That's..."
"...far beyond what I expected."
She quickly opened a new holographic notebook.
"If your knowledge can be combined with my research..."
"...we may not simply reproduce magical cores."
She smiled broadly.
"...we may actually develop a proper magical education system."
Yuuki folded his arms with a grin.
"So now..."
"We've gone from trying to teach Shipgirls basic mana enhancement..."
"...to founding an actual magic academy."
Neon immediately raised her hand.
"I volunteer!"
Anis laughed.
"You volunteered before hearing the curriculum."
"Magic!"
Neon protested.
"Who wouldn't?"
Even Centaur quietly smiled.
"Please guide us, eldest fairies!"
Centaur's voice carried both reverence and excitement as she carefully held her hands steady, afraid even the slightest movement might disturb the delicate beings resting upon her palms.
Oberis tilted her head slightly, a faint, amused smile forming.
"Eldest..."
"I quite like the sound of that."
Her wings shimmered softly as she folded her hands behind her back, clearly pleased by the title.
Esche giggled beside her, her golden glow flickering playfully.
"Well, it is technically accurate."
She floated up slightly, circling once before settling again.
"We have existed far longer than most beings here."
"Even among elves, our kind predates many of their oldest lineages."
She glanced at Centaur and Albion with a warm, reassuring expression.
"So yes..."
"You may call us eldest fairies."
=======================
Before anyone could continue—
A soft chime echoed from another voice on the floor.
Eugen immediately looked down.
"...Mother?"
Friedrich der Große slowly opened her crimson eyes.
"...Mmm..."
She looked upward.
The first face she saw...
Was Eugen.
"...Child?"
A warm smile spread across Friedrich's face.
"...Eugen..."
"I missed thee."
Eugen's composure completely disappeared.
She gently embraced Friedrich.
"We finally found you..."
Nearby...
Hipper's eyes watered.
"...Mother..."
Nimi could no longer hold herself back.
She practically threw herself into Friedrich's arms.
"Mother!"
"I missed you so much!"
Friedrich softly laughed as she embraced all three.
"I know."
"So did I..."
"...my children."
For a brief moment...
The laboratory became quiet once more.
Simply allowing the reunion to happen.
Mecklenburg slowly sat upright.
"...Mmm..."
She blinked several times before focusing.
"...Frau Eugen?"
"...Frau Hipper?"
"...Frau Z23?"
The three immediately smiled.
"It really is us."
Hindenburg opened her eyes moments later.
Her crimson gaze immediately settled upon Yuuki.
"...Contractor."
She slowly stood despite still recovering.
"...We finally meet."
Yuuki smiled.
"Yep."
Hindenburg calmly extended one hand.
"Then..."
"...let us finalize our contract."
Yuuki laughed.
"Let's do that after everyone's had some rest."
"You've only just woken up."
Hindenburg considered it.
"...Acceptable."
Beside her...
Mecklenburg suddenly broke into a bright smile.
Her pointed ears twitched excitedly.
"...Ah!"
"The great wizard!"
Everyone looked toward her.
She clasped both of Yuuki's hands without hesitation.
"You really came."
"Thank you."
"...Thank you for freeing us."
Yuuki smiled warmly.
"I told everyone the same thing."
"I don't leave my people behind."
Mecklenburg lowered her head gratefully.
"...Then..."
"...allow us to fight beside you from now on."
Yuuki smiled as he looked toward the three Iron Blood battleships.
"To think..."
"...the three of you are Decisive Shipgirls."
He folded his arms thoughtfully.
"A class above Priority Shipgirls..."
"...and one step below Arcane Shipgirls."
Mecklenburg nodded proudly.
"Indeed."
She placed a hand over her chest.
"We look forward to dedicating our lives to your cause."
Then her eyes immediately sparkled.
"...Also."
She leaned forward excitedly.
"When are you going to show me the flying broomsticks?"
The entire laboratory became silent.
Yuuki blinked.
"...You remembered that?"
"Of course!"
Mecklenburg's pointed ears twitched happily.
"You promised!"
"I have wanted to ride one ever since!"
Yuuki laughed awkwardly.
"Let's recover first."
"No."
She shook her head dramatically.
"Broomsticks first."
"Hospital later."
Anis immediately spun toward Yuuki.
"...Flying..."
"...what?"
"Broomsticks?" Neon echoed.
"You never told us!"
Even Javelin looked surprised.
"...Commander..."
"You've been hiding flying broomsticks from us?"
Yuuki raised both hands defensively.
"It's really not that important."
Several girls stared at him.
"It is important!"
Neon protested immediately.
"We can fly, you know!"
"If there's another way to fly..."
"I want to see it!"
Akashi's ears perked up.
"Nyaa!"
"Flying magical engineering?"
"Akashi approves!"
"Not exactly magic."
Centaur smiled politely.
"It is not quite common among elves."
Albion nodded.
"Though ours rely on mana."
Mecklenburg puffed out her chest proudly.
"I simply think they look cool."
Yuuki rubbed his forehead.
"...Really."
"It's just a technologically enhanced broom."
"It flies."
"That's it."
Anis stared at him.
"...Commander."
"You just described the coolest thing I've heard all week."
The room burst into laughter.
Even Friedrich chuckled quietly.
Kaguya covered a smile behind her sleeve.
"My dearest..."
"Perhaps thou shouldst stop pretending thy inventions are ordinary."
Yuuki sighed dramatically.
"...Fine."
"When we're safely back aboard the Daedalus..."
"I'll show everyone the flying broomsticks."
A loud cheer immediately erupted throughout the laboratory.
"YES!"
Neon pumped both fists into the air.
Akashi's eyes became stars.
"Nyaa!"
"I want one!"
Mecklenburg practically bounced in place.
"The great wizard has spoken!"
Hindenburg calmly adjusted her coat.
"...Contractor."
"I, too..."
"...would like to evaluate this flying broomstick."
Yuuki laughed.
"One thing at a time."
He looked toward the still recovering rescuees.
"First..."
"...let's get everyone safely out of this Mother Whale."
"Then..."
He smiled.
"We'll start broomstick lessons."
Eugen was still kneeling beside Friedrich, with Nimi and Hipper hugging their mother tightly.
Friedrich slowly inclined her head toward Yuuki.
"Thank you..."
"...child."
"For keeping thy promise."
Yuuki smiled and shook his head.
"Not a problem."
He gestured toward the gathered rescue team.
"These girls did all the hard work."
"I simply gave them the strength to accomplish it."
He looked back at Friedrich with a teasing grin.
"Now that you're here..."
"I need you to keep an eye on Eugen."
"So she doesn't sneak into my room again."
Eugen immediately smirked.
"Oh?"
"You say that like you wanted me to sneak in more..."
"...Teddy Bear."
This time, however, there was no surprise from most of the room.
Neon crossed her arms with a grin.
"Yeah, yeah. We already know."
Anis chuckled.
"Old news."
Javelin giggled.
"Eugen always calls him that."
Friedrich slowly raised an elegant eyebrow.
"Oh?"
"So this is already common knowledge..."
Yuuki sighed dramatically.
"Unfortunately."
"I saved her life."
"I stole her away from her good-for-nothing fiancé."
He looked toward Eugen.
"...Then she somehow ended up becoming my fiancée instead."
Eugen proudly folded her arms.
"A much better arrangement. You win me fair and square."
Friedrich observed the exchange for several quiet moments.
Then...
She smiled.
"...Amusing."
She looked toward Yuuki with unmistakable warmth.
"So..."
"Thee art engaged to several others as well."
Yuuki pointed helplessly toward the gathered girls.
"They never really gave me much choice."
Immediately—
"Commander!"
Neon protested.
"That's not how I remember it!"
Kaguya gracefully covered her smile.
"This wife merely followed her heart."
Eugen laughed.
"And Teddy Bear stopped resisting long ago."
The laboratory erupted into laughter once again.
Even Hindenburg allowed herself the faintest hint of a smile.
Friedrich simply chuckled softly.
"...Thou art..."
"...a most amusing child."
She looked around at the lively laboratory.
The rescued Shipgirls.
The Nikkes.
The META allies.
The Commander surrounded by companions who clearly trusted him.
For the first time since her capture...
She felt completely at ease.
"...I believe..."
"...Iron Blood has chosen well."
At the same time, Rapi smiled as she noticed Eunhwa, Velvet, Emma, Vesti, and Privaty beginning to stir awake.