"Food... food..."
Sandy grinned excitedly as she sat at a special round table inside one of the restaurants aboard the GDSS Philadelphia. Beside her, Eldridge quietly watched the food being brought out, while Cinderella sat across from them, admiring the elegant interior.
The restaurant was spacious, with polished floors, comfortable seating, and enormous windows offering a breathtaking view of Earth. The lighting was warm, the atmosphere peaceful, and the menu offered an impressive selection of dishes prepared by the station's automated kitchen.
Yet, despite all its amenities, the restaurant was nearly empty.
Yuuki and Yuu approached the table, smiling at the sight of the three girls.
"Enjoying yourselves?" Yuuki asked.
"Food!" Sandy declared enthusiastically.
Eldridge nodded.
"Food..."
Cinderella giggled at their reactions before looking around the restaurant.
"Dining here is wonderful, my Prince. The food is delicious, the atmosphere is lovely, and the view is breathtaking." She glanced at the empty tables. "Though... it's a little sad that the restaurant is so quiet."
Yuuki followed her gaze.
"Yeah. I suppose it is."
He pulled out a chair and sat down, while Yuu took the seat beside him.
"Yuu and I have talked about this before. The Philadelphia is a GDI command center, and its primary purpose is to support our operations across the world. But with so much space, so many facilities, and so few people using them, the station can feel rather empty."
He looked through the window at the Earth below.
"I'd like to see that change someday. I'd love to see the gardens filled with visitors, the cafés bustling with people, and the restaurants full of Shipgirls and Nikkes enjoying their time off."
Yuu smiled.
"Even if it's only during their vacations, it would be nice to see everyone enjoying the facilities we've built here."
Yuuki nodded.
"Exactly. And let's not forget that you're all GDI personnel. You have every right to enjoy the facilities we've provided."
Sandy abruptly sat up straighter.
"WAIT! Does that mean we can come here whenever we want?!"
Yuuki blinked at her enthusiasm.
"Not exactly whenever you want. You'll need to arrange your visits with either me or Yuu, especially while the station is operating at full capacity."
Sandy's shoulders drooped slightly.
"Awww..."
"But," Yuuki continued with a grin, "once things settle down, I'll arrange more opportunities for everyone to visit. And one day, when the third Chronosphere is completed on the Moon, I'll take you all there."
Silence fell over the table.
Then—
"WE CAN VISIT THE MOON?!"
Sandy practically jumped out of her chair.
Yuu covered her ears.
"Sandy, please! We're inside a restaurant!"
"BUT THE MOON!"
Eldridge, who had quietly climbed onto Yuuki's lap, lifted her head.
"Moon..."
Yuuki chuckled and gently patted her head.
"Yes, Eldridge. The Moon."
"Moon..." She leaned against his chest, apparently satisfied with that answer.
Cinderella, however, had grown quiet.
She looked beyond the enormous windows, gazing at the pale celestial body visible in the distance.
"To visit the Moon..." she murmured. "That has been one of my dreams, my Prince."
Yuuki turned toward her.
"Really?"
Cinderella nodded.
"I remember seeing it years ago. Its beauty, its light, and the way it illuminated the night sky..." She smiled wistfully. "I always wondered what it would be like to stand upon its surface and see the Earth from there."
Her fingers rested gently against her chest.
"To visit the Moon would be a dream come true."
Yuuki gave her a warm smile.
"Then we'll make it happen. One day, for sure."
Cinderella's expression brightened.
"Thank you, my Prince."
"Just don't expect me to carry you the entire way."
Cinderella giggled.
"Oh? But would that not be rather romantic?"
"Chief, you're digging yourself into trouble," Yuu remarked.
Yuuki sighed.
"I haven't even done anything yet!"
"That's usually how it starts."
Sandy burst out laughing, while Eldridge simply looked up at Yuuki.
"Carry..."
Yuuki stared at her.
"...Not you too, Eldridge."
"Carry..."
Yuu could no longer contain her laughter.
Before Yuuki could defend himself, his communicator chimed.
He glanced at the incoming notification, his expression shifting into one of mild curiosity.
"Hmm? I wonder what that's about."
He checked the message, then looked toward the restaurant entrance.
At that moment, two tiny figures came flying into the dining area.
"Ah! There thou are!"
Oberis swooped down toward the table, followed closely by Esche. Both fairies looked positively delighted, their wings fluttering as they settled near Yuuki's shoulders.
"We've been exploring the gardens!" Oberis announced.
"And the Philadelphia has so many wonderful places!" Esche added enthusiastically. "The flowers, the fountains, the little paths between the trees... Oh, it is simply delightful!"
Cinderella smiled at them.
"Did you enjoy yourselves?"
"Very much!" Oberis replied. "Though, we have a request for the Great Hero!"
Yuuki raised an eyebrow.
"Already? What is it?"
Esche flew closer, clasping her hands together.
"When we finally establish our new home around Laurelin and Telperion, couldst thou arrange for flower gardens to surround the trees?"
Oberis nodded eagerly.
"Yes! Lots of flowers! Beautiful ones, too! We want the entire place to feel like this garden!"
Yuuki smiled at their enthusiasm.
"Of course. I'll arrange with the landscaping drones and see what we can arrange. We'll make sure your new home has plenty of flowers, greenery, and peaceful places to relax."
"Really?!" Oberis exclaimed.
"Really."
Esche clapped her hands.
"Wonderful! Thou art truly generous, Great Hero!"
Yuuki chuckled.
"Just don't ask me to personally plant every flower."
The two fairies exchanged a look.
Then Oberis grinned.
"We shall ask the Manjuus! You have them back in your base?"
Yuuki stared at her.
"...Somehow, I think that's even worse."
Yuu laughed while Cinderella giggled.
With the fairies now joining them, the table had become considerably livelier. Sandy was already asking whether fairies could eat ice cream, Eldridge was watching Oberis's wings with quiet fascination, and Cinderella was happily discussing the different desserts available aboard the station.
Yuuki leaned back in his chair, content to watch them.
Then he remembered something.
"Actually, speaking of the Philadelphia..."
He reached for the coordinate-based Portal Gun resting at his side.
The device was still relatively new, but it had already proven to be one of the most convenient pieces of technology he had ever developed. After its successful laboratory tests, he had forwarded the blueprints, operating principles, and preliminary test results to the research division. They were now documenting its functions and preparing recommendations for further improvements.
Yuuki couldn't help remembering Sandy's reaction when he had first demonstrated the device.
Earlier, he had opened a portal from the research laboratory directly into the quarters Sandy and Eldridge shared. The two girls had been minding their own business when a swirling blue portal suddenly appeared in their room.
Yuuki and Yuu had simply stepped through it and greeted them.
Sandy had nearly jumped out of her skin.
Eldridge had stared at him for several seconds before quietly asking whether the portal was magic.
It had been one of the funniest reactions he'd seen in a long time.
Now, he raised the device.
"Since we're all here, why don't we invite the others to join us?"
Yuu glanced at the Portal Gun.
"Chief, are you planning to open another portal?"
"Why not? It'll save everyone the trouble of walking here."
He adjusted the control dial and selected the laboratory's recorded coordinates.
The indicator turned blue.
Yuuki aimed the muzzle toward an empty space beside the table and pulled the trigger.
KRAK-THOOM!
A streak of blue-white energy shot forward before spreading across the air like liquid light. Space rippled, and a swirling blue portal opened beside the table.
Sandy leaned forward.
"Ooooh! It's the portal gun!"
Eldridge tilted her head.
"Blue..."
Cinderella watched with fascination, while Esche and Oberis flew closer to inspect the luminous opening.
Moments later, three familiar figures emerged from the portal.
Vergil came through first, followed by Suki and Dasha.
Vergil looked as though he'd just survived a particularly demanding battlefield engagement.
Yuuki grinned.
"So... how was the discussion?"
Vergil shot him a murderous look.
"Don't."
Yuuki's grin widened.
"Oh, come on. Did you resolve the misunderstanding?"
"Misunderstanding?" Vergil repeated incredulously. "They dragged me into a room and demonstrated that wrestling is apparently more important than my portal gun!"
There was a brief silence.
Yuu stared at him.
Then she burst into laughter.
Suki and Dasha walked through the portal behind him, looking perfectly composed.
"Darling, you're exaggerating," Suki said sweetly.
"Exaggerating?!" Vergil exclaimed. "You two drained me dry!"
Dasha folded her arms.
"Then perhaps you'll remember not to say that a machine is more important than your wives."
Vergil opened his mouth.
Closed it.
"...I still love my portal gun."
Suki and Dasha turned toward him.
Vergil immediately straightened.
"But not more than you, dears!"
Yuuki nearly choked on his drink.
Yuu leaned against him, laughing so hard that she could barely speak.
Meanwhile, Sandy and Eldridge stared at Vergil with bewildered expressions.
Cinderella looked equally confused.
"Um... what exactly happened?"
Oberis whispered to Esche.
"Is this some sort of human ritual?"
Esche shook her head.
"I have no idea."
Vergil finally noticed the audience surrounding the table.
He looked at Sandy.
Then Eldridge.
Then Cinderella.
Then the two fairies.
His expression slowly changed.
"...Oh."
Yuuki grinned wickedly.
"Hey, mate. There are kids here."
"YOU'RE THE ONE WHO OPENED THE PORTAL!"
"And you're the one who started talking about wrestling."
"YOU ASKED ME HOW IT WENT!"
"And you answered!"
Vergil pointed accusingly at him.
"I hate you."
"No, you don't."
"...Unfortunately."
Yuu wiped a tear from the corner of her eye, still giggling.
"Chief, you're terrible."
"I prefer the term resourceful. Plus, it's payback for making me go Brainstorm."
Suki sighed and shook her head, while Dasha took a seat at the table.
"At least we know the Portal Gun works well enough to deliver our husband directly to us when he needs a lesson in manners."
Vergil slowly turned toward her.
"...I'm never letting you near my ASHPD."
Dasha smiled.
"Then I suppose we'll have to discuss that later, darling."
Vergil immediately fell silent.
Yuuki raised his glass.
"To scientific progress."
Yuu raised hers as well.
"To scientific progress."
Sandy enthusiastically lifted her drink.
"TO FOOD!"
Eldridge raised a small hand.
"Food..."
Cinderella smiled, and the two fairies cheered along with them.
Even Vergil eventually gave in, lifting his glass while keeping one protective hand on his beloved portal gun.
For all its importance as GDI's orbital command center, the Philadelphia had been quiet for far too long.
But with more people gathering, laughter filling the restaurant, and new possibilities opening before them, Yuuki could finally imagine the station becoming something more than a military installation.
It could become a home.
And if the occasional portal gun was needed to bring everyone together—or rescue a fellow commander from his wives—then perhaps that was simply another benefit of technological advancement.
============
Meanwhile, back on Earth, the Daedalus was enjoying an unusually peaceful evening.
For once, there were no emergencies to respond to, no battles to prepare for, and no urgent missions demanding everyone's attention. With Yuuki and Yuu aboard the Philadelphia, the girls had been given the freedom to enjoy the facilities of GDI's command carrier at their leisure.
And they had certainly made the most of it.
Belfast had taken the initiative in organizing dinner preparations alongside the other maids. Although they could easily have left everything to the cooking drones, the maids had decided to use the opportunity to refine their culinary skills instead.
After all, there was something deeply satisfying about preparing a meal with their own hands and sharing it with the people they cared about.
Meanwhile, the other shipgirls and Nikkes had spent the day exploring the enormous carrier. Some sampled the desserts offered in its restaurants and cafés, while others indulged in the hot springs and spa facilities. A few had even discovered the clothing generator and spent hours experimenting with different casual outfits.
The Daedalus was a military vessel, but with its extensive recreational facilities, it could easily have passed for a luxury cruise ship whenever its crew was off duty.
Judging by the laughter echoing through its corridors, everyone was thoroughly enjoying themselves.
Inside one of the Daedalus's hot springs, Kaguya and Irisviel were relaxing in the warm water alongside Yorktown, Akagi, and Kaga.
Steam drifted lazily across the surface, while the artificial garden surrounding the pool created a tranquil atmosphere. For a little while, at least, there were no responsibilities to worry about and no crises demanding their attention.
Kaguya leaned back against the stone edge, looking entirely at ease.
"Ahh... 'tis a wonderful way to spend the evening, dearest friends."
Irisviel smiled, resting her arms along the edge beside her.
"Indeed. We rarely have the opportunity to relax like this without worrying that something might happen. I am sure Yukime will be delighted to join us when she has the chance."
Yorktown nodded, her expression peaceful.
"We should do this more often. Everyone has been working so hard lately. A little time to unwind is good for the soul."
Akagi smiled knowingly.
"Especially when our dear Shikikan-sama is away. We can finally enjoy ourselves without worrying about some other woman monopolizing his attention." She clasped her hands against her chest and gazed dreamily toward the ceiling. "Ahhh~ Shikikan-sama, please come back to Akagi~!"
Kaga gave her sister a sidelong glance.
"Nee-sama, he's in space right now. I am sure he has more important things to occupy himself with than women."
Akagi pouted.
"How cruel, Kaga! Are you saying I am not important to him?"
"I am saying he is probably busy conducting research."
The women exchanged amused looks.
Given Yuuki's habit of turning even a brief research session into a major technological breakthrough, nobody could entirely dismiss that possibility.
Knowing him, he might return with another revolutionary invention before they had even finished dinner.
While the others continued chatting, Yorktown and Irisviel exchanged a knowing glance. They had quietly agreed on a little prank—one that would be entirely harmless, yet potentially hilarious.
Their target was Enterprise.
The plan was simple: switch their clothes and see how long it would take their famously composed friend to realize that something was amiss.
Which is the sister and which one is the imposter.
Yorktown covered her mouth, suppressing a giggle.
"I wonder how long it'll take her to notice."
Irisviel smiled innocently.
"Perhaps we should find out."
Kaguya regarded them with amusement.
"Ufufu. Thou art both rather mischievous today."
"Just a little," Yorktown replied, her smile growing wider.
Akagi and Kaga exchanged a glance.
Neither offered to intervene.
In fact, judging by their expressions, both seemed rather interested in seeing how the prank would unfold.
After all, even Enterprise deserved to be teased once in a while.
Elsewhere aboard the Daedalus, an entirely different kind of chaos was underway.
"WHY ARE YOU CHASING ME?!"
Neon sprinted down the corridor, with Grimm the bald eagle hot on her heels.
The eagle spread its wings and let out a sharp, indignant screech.
SCREEE!
Neon glanced over her shoulder.
"IT WAS JUST A LITTLE EXPERIMENT!"
Grimm screeched again and accelerated, its wings beating furiously as it pursued the fleeing Nikke.
Apparently, Neon had decided that since she knew Grimm could transform into a fighter jet, it was worth investigating whether its feathers were just as impressive as its mechanical capabilities.
Unfortunately for her, Grimm had not appreciated the experiment.
Not even a little.
Her curiosity had become a very loud, very feathery mistake.
"WAIT! I WAS ONLY CHECKING YOUR FEATHERS!"
SCREEE!
"OKAY! I'M SORRY! I'M SORRY!"
Neon rounded a corner, nearly losing her footing as she desperately tried to escape her furious pursuer.
Shoukaku and Zuikaku came from the opposite direction hurriedly stepped aside, allowing the unlikely chase to rush past them.
Zuikaku watched Neon disappear around the next corner, followed by a very angry eagle.
"Should we help her?"
Shoukaku considered the question for a moment.
"...Did she provoke the eagle?"
"Apparently."
"Then I suggest we stay out of it."
They continued on their way as though nothing unusual had happened.
Behind them, Neon's increasingly desperate squeals echoed through the corridor.
Somewhere in the distance, Grimm let out another triumphant screech.
It was going to be a very long evening for Neon.
In one of the Daedalus's common rooms, Diane sat beside Rapi while a gathering of Nikkes listened to their explanation.
Ludmilla, Alice, Tove, Neve, Eunhwa, Vesti, Emma, Velvet, and Privaty had assembled to discuss an important matter concerning their future with GDI.
Diane sat with her hands resting neatly on her knees before addressing the group.
"As you already know, Rapi and the others have been freed from the Ark's control. The process involved the Commander's blood, which allowed the control mechanisms associated with our NIMPH systems to be altered and our internal cubes to synchronize with him."
Rapi nodded, picking up where Diane left off.
"Once synchronization was established, we were able to remove the limiters imposed on us and break free from the Ark's restrictions. We no longer have to live under the same controls that once governed our actions."
Anis, seated nearby with her arms folded, added her own explanation.
"And before anyone asks, no, it doesn't mean we're suddenly mindless combat machines. We're still ourselves. We can think, make decisions, and live our lives without someone from the Ark pulling our strings."
A familiar voice suddenly rang out from the doorway.
"AND WE CAN USE MORE FIREPOWER!"
Neon leaned into the room, looking considerably more enthusiastic than the situation warranted.
Rapi turned toward her.
"Neon, why are you shouting?"
"Because freedom is powerful!"
Anis sighed and gestured toward an empty seat.
"Please sit down before that eagle finds you again."
Neon's expression changed immediately.
She hurried inside and sat down.
Rapi watched the exchange with the patient expression of someone who had already grown accustomed to such interruptions before continuing.
"The synchronization also established a connection between us and the Commander. It isn't simply a technical link. Through it, he can access our memories and gain a deeper understanding of our experiences—things that ordinary conversation cannot always fully convey."
The room gradually grew quieter.
Several of the Nikkes exchanged uncertain glances as they considered the implications.
Ludmilla rested her chin on one hand, her expression thoughtful.
"So the Commander would be able to see the lives we lived before meeting him?"
"Yes," Rapi answered. "Our memories, our experiences, and the events that shaped us. The connection allows him to understand us more deeply instead of relying solely on what we choose to tell him."
Neve yawned softly.
"That sounds... rather personal."
"It is," Rapi admitted. "Which is why it's important that everyone understands what synchronization means before making a decision."
Eunhwa leaned back in her seat, arms crossed.
"And what exactly does the Commander gain from it? Is this merely a means of removing our limiters, or does it create some additional dependency?"
"It's not about making us dependent on him," Rapi replied firmly. "The connection is part of how we were freed. It allows our cubes to synchronize with him, but our freedom and individuality remain our own."
Mary nodded in agreement.
"Commander has never forced anyone to undergo the process. Anyone considering it must understand what it entails, including the extent of the personal information that might become accessible through the connection."
Vesti lowered her gaze to her hands.
"So... he might see things we've never told anyone?"
"Potentially," Rapi answered gently. "That's why consent matters. You should never agree to something like this simply because the rest of us have done it."
Emma offered a reassuring smile.
"But you all seem much happier now."
Anis's expression softened.
"We are."
She glanced toward Rapi, Neon, and the others who had already undergone the process.
"There's a kind of peace that comes with knowing no one can simply take control of your body or force you to act against your will. You don't have to spend every day wondering whether someone can override your decisions."
Tove nodded thoughtfully.
"And the Commander understands what we've been through?"
"More than he did before," Rapi replied. "Through the connection, he can experience our memories and better understand the emotions behind them. It doesn't mean he automatically knows everything about us, but it gives him a chance to understand things that words alone might never fully explain."
Ade, Cocoa, Soda, Mary, Pepper, and Nayuta had all experienced that connection in their own ways. For them, it had become an important step toward leaving their old burdens behind.
They had found someone who could understand the experiences that had shaped them without demanding that they hide the parts of themselves they struggled to explain.
More importantly, Yuuki had never treated their pasts as reasons to look down on them.
He had accepted them as they were and offered them the opportunity to decide what they wanted their futures to look like.
For Nikkes who had spent so much of their existence being treated as weapons, assets, or expendable resources, that acceptance had meant more than they could easily put into words.
Privaty remained silent for a long moment before finally speaking.
"So, if we agree to this, we aren't merely allowing the Commander to help us remove the Ark's control. We're also trusting him with parts of ourselves that we might never have shared with anyone else."
"That's right," Rapi answered.
Privaty looked away, her expression turning contemplative.
"That's... quite a lot to ask of someone."
"It is," Rapi acknowledged. "Which is why you should take your time. There is no deadline, and no one will think less of you if you decide you aren't ready."
Tove nodded slowly as she considered the explanation.
"I think I understand. It's not just about becoming stronger. It's about being able to live freely, without the Ark deciding who we should be."
"Exactly," Rapi said.
Alice tilted her head, her eyes bright with curiosity.
"Then... if we do it, will we be able to feel that peaceful feeling too? Being with rabbity? Being one of his army of rabbits?"
Rapi's expression softened.
"Something like that. I can't promise that everyone will experience it in exactly the same way. But for us, the connection has brought a sense of understanding and reassurance that we didn't have before."
She glanced at Diane before continuing.
"And knowing that someone understands our memories without judging us... it means a lot."
Diane nodded.
"Maybe.. this will be the chance for me to be free. Maybe the Perilous Siege will come after me but, at least I knew I am protected."
The room fell silent once more.
Ludmilla gazed thoughtfully toward the window, weighing what freedom might mean for someone who had spent so long living under the expectations imposed upon her. Tove considered the possibility of finally escaping the restrictions that had defined so much of her existence.
Eunhwa remained analytical, carefully evaluating the risks and implications. Vesti, meanwhile, looked quietly hopeful.
Neve appeared as sleepy as ever, though she had been listening closely. Emma smiled warmly at her companions, while Velvet remained lost in thought. Privaty continued to wrestle with the weight of the decision.
Each of them had her own history, regrets, and reasons to be cautious.
For some, the idea of allowing another person access to their memories was frightening. Their memories were deeply personal, containing experiences they might never have intended to share with anyone.
For others, the prospect of finally being understood was almost too tempting to ignore.
Yet none of them had to decide immediately.
Rapi understood that better than anyone. She knew what it meant to have choices taken away, to live under restrictions imposed by others, and to wonder whether she would ever truly be free.
That was precisely why she refused to pressure them.
Freedom meant having the right to choose—even when the choice was difficult, and even when the answer was no.
"Take your time," she said gently. "When you're ready, you can speak with the Commander. He'll explain the process himself and answer any questions you have."
Anis smiled faintly.
"And whatever you decide, you'll still be part of GDI. You don't need to prove your loyalty by giving up your privacy."
That reassurance eased some of the tension in the room.
The Nikkes exchanged glances, each continuing to consider the possibilities in her own way. No one demanded an immediate answer. No one questioned their loyalty. And no one tried to make the decision for them.
Outside, the Daedalus continued its quiet journey across the Earth, carrying women who had finally found a place where they could begin building lives of their own.
For now, there were no orders from the Ark, no forced obedience, and no one demanding that they sacrifice their individuality for the sake of a system that had never truly cared about them.
There was only a choice and that choice belonged entirely to them.
===========
"No! Not another horror movie!" Neon shouted, looking as though someone had just announced the end of the world.
Yorktown smiled reassuringly from her seat in the cinema.
"It won't be that scary. Besides, everyone's here to watch together. There's nothing to be afraid of."
Neon stared at her.
"THAT'S EXACTLY WHAT PEOPLE SAY BEFORE EVERYTHING GOES WRONG!"
A few seats away, Georgina leaned forward with an intrigued smile.
"My, a horror movie... How exciting."
York, sitting beside her, glanced around at the increasingly nervous audience.
"I wonder why everyone's so scared."
"How absurd," Howe remarked, adjusting her posture with an air of refined indifference.
Anson immediately turned toward her with a mischievous grin.
"Really? Isn't someone used to hiding under her blanket whenever we watched horror movies years ago? Ah, good times!"
Howe's composure cracked for a moment.
"I wasn't scared!"
"Of course not," Wales replied, patting her sister's shoulder. "Whatever you say, sis."
"Stop treating me like a child!"
The teasing only made the surrounding girls laugh.
Even Bismarck and Tirpitz had decided to join the gathering. Bismarck sat with her usual dignified posture, while Tirpitz quietly settled into her seat, apparently content to observe the spectacle.
Takao, meanwhile, had arrived with a blanket.
Atago noticed it immediately.
"Oh my~? Takao-chan, why did you bring a blanket to the cinema?"
"For comfort," Takao answered without hesitation.
"Of course~."
Atago smiled sweetly, already knowing precisely what would happen once the lights went out.
Takao might have been fearless on the battlefield, calm under pressure, and impeccably composed in almost every situation. Unfortunately, ghosts were a different matter entirely.
She would never admit it, but the thought of something supernatural lurking in the darkness unsettled her far more than any enemy fleet ever could.
And Atago fully intended to enjoy every moment of her sister's inevitable reaction.
Avrora had also arrived with her sisters, while Eunhwa and Emma joined the gathering after hearing about the planned movie night. The maids were there as well, eager to enjoy the entertainment together.
Well, almost all of them were eager.
Edinburgh had already begun looking for a seat as far away from the screen as possible.
She had absolutely no interest in horror movies.
Unfortunately, Belfast had come along, and abandoning her older sister wasn't an option.
Edinburgh could only pray that the movie wouldn't be too frightening.
Then Enterprise noticed something peculiar.
She had been watching the woman seated beside her for several minutes before finally narrowing her eyes.
"Sis... how long are you planning to keep dressing like Irisviel?"
The woman beside her blinked.
"Hm?"
Enterprise stared at her.
Yorktown was wearing Irisviel's clothes.
And across the aisle, Irisviel was wearing Yorktown's uniform.
The two women already resembled each other remarkably well, differing primarily in their hair and eye colors. With their outfits exchanged, telling them apart at a glance had become considerably more difficult.
Enterprise had called out to her sister almost five times before finally realizing that the woman answering her was not Yorktown at all.
It was Irisviel.
The worst part?
Anis and Neon had already approached Irisviel earlier, cheerfully calling her Mom without realizing they were speaking to the wrong woman.
Enterprise pressed a hand against her forehead.
"How did I not notice this sooner?"
Irisviel smiled serenely.
"Perhaps thou wert simply distracted, dearest 'sister'."
Yorktown, meanwhile, tugged lightly at the unfamiliar fabric of her borrowed outfit.
"Ehee~. These clothes are surprisingly comfortable. They feel rather warm and cozy."
Irisviel glanced down at Yorktown's uniform.
"Thou hast my sympathies, Hana. These garments are somewhat breezy."
Yorktown giggled.
"Then I suppose we're both learning something new!"
Enterprise looked between them, still trying to process the situation.
"You two are unbelievable."
"Ufufu. It was merely a harmless prank," Irisviel replied.
"One that worked perfectly," Yorktown added proudly.
Enterprise could only sigh.
At least the prank had been harmless.
Mostly.
By the time everyone had settled into their seats, the cinema was packed.
Word had spread that the infamous horror movie Insidious was genuinely frightening, and naturally, that had attracted an enormous audience.
Everyone wanted to see what all the fuss was about.
Naturally, those who had watched it before were now pretending to be fearless veterans of the horror genre.
They sat back with folded arms, smug expressions, and the confidence of people who had absolutely nothing to prove.
At least, until the movie started.
"Please don't watch Chapter Two..." Javelin pleaded, already looking apprehensive.
Yorktown glanced at her.
"Okay, okay. Maybe we should start with something less scary?"
Several girls visibly relaxed.
Then Yorktown began browsing through the movie selection on her tablet.
"What about The Conjuring?"
"THAT'S EVEN WORSE!" Pepper exclaimed.
Yorktown paused.
"Really?"
"YES!"
Belfast, who had been listening to the exchange, raised a hand.
"Forgive me for asking, but is this going to be just one movie?"
Yorktown checked the available titles.
"Well... I think there are nine."
Neon nearly leaped out of her seat.
"NINE?! WE CAN'T EVEN FINISH INSIDIOUS!"
Laffey, already curled up comfortably in her seat, pulled her blanket over her head.
"Laffey votes for sleeping..."
No one seemed particularly surprised.
Unicorn, safely nestled in Illustrious's embrace, looked toward the screen with a small, hopeful smile.
"Ghosts aren't real, right?"
Illustrious gently stroked her hair.
"Of course, dear. There's no need to be frightened."
Enterprise glanced at her sister, who seemed remarkably relaxed despite the increasingly nervous audience.
"Sis... how in the world are you not scared of horror movies?"
Yorktown looked genuinely puzzled.
"Eh? They're just people wearing makeup."
She shrugged.
"Besides, without the jump scares, the ghosts are actually quite funny."
Silence descended over the nearby seats.
Several frightened girls slowly turned to stare at her.
Yorktown blinked.
"What?"
Neon suddenly sat upright, her eyes shining with admiration.
"Mom is our idol!"
Anis nodded solemnly.
"I can't believe someone can be that brave."
"Or that oblivious," Rapi muttered.
Akagi and Kaga, for their part, didn't seem particularly concerned. Akagi was more interested in settling comfortably into her seat, while Kaga regarded the commotion with mild amusement.
Kaguya merely chuckled.
"Ufufu. What a curious gathering. They fear phantoms more than they fear their enemies."
"Perhaps because their enemies don't usually leap out of the screen," Atago remarked cheerfully.
Takao tightened her grip on her blanket.
"I am not afraid."
"Of course not, Takao-chan~."
Atago's smile grew wider.
Across the room, several girls exchanged glances.
Perhaps the movie wouldn't be so frightening if Yuuki were here to watch with them.
With the Commander around, they could always hide behind him if things became too terrifying. Surely nothing in a horror movie could compare to the enemies he had faced.
Unfortunately, Yuuki was still aboard the Philadelphia.
They were on their own.
Yorktown sighed as she looked over the growing sea of anxious faces.
"All right, all right. Let's choose something less frightening."
She scrolled through the selection again, carefully examining the titles.
"Hmm... What about The Nun?"
The room fell silent.
Vesti cautiously raised her hand.
"This one is fine..."
Javelin nodded, trying to convince herself.
"It must be about nuns. How scary can it be?"
Enterprise folded her arms.
"It must be considerably less frightening than the others."
Belfast tilted her head slightly.
"Well, the title certainly sounds rather innocent."
Yorktown smiled.
"See? Nothing to worry about!"
Neon slowly lowered her guard.
"Okay... As long as it's not another movie with creepy ghosts jumping out of nowhere."
Pepper nodded emphatically.
"Exactly. Nuns can't be that scary."
Edinburgh, still clutching a cushion against her chest, cautiously peered over it.
"Are we absolutely certain about this?"
Belfast gave her sister an encouraging smile.
"Of course, Edinburgh."
Takao adjusted her blanket and sat a little straighter.
"I am prepared."
Atago leaned closer to her sister.
"How brave of you, Takao~."
"Atago!"
The lights dimmed.
The screen flickered to life.
For the first few minutes, everything seemed perfectly ordinary.
The atmosphere was quiet. The music was subdued. The opening scenes gave the impression that the movie might actually be less frightening than Insidious.
Several girls began to relax.
Neon even leaned forward, looking pleased with herself.
"See? I told you! It's just a movie about nuns!"
Yorktown smiled.
"Glad you're enjoying it."
Then the atmosphere changed.
The music grew darker.
The camera lingered on a shadowy corridor.
A door creaked open.
And something moved in the darkness.
Neon's smile slowly disappeared.
"...Why did the music change?"
No one answered.
On the screen, a figure emerged from the shadows.
Its face was pale.
Its eyes were dark.
And its smile was decidedly unnatural.
Vesti's fingers tightened around the armrest.
Javelin stopped breathing for a moment.
Enterprise leaned forward, her earlier confidence evaporating.
Then the figure moved.
BANG!
The sudden jump scare struck like a gunshot.
The entire cinema erupted.
"AAAAAAAHHHHH!"
Neon nearly launched herself out of her seat.
Pepper screamed and grabbed Emma's arm.
Vesti clutched the nearest cushion.
Javelin buried her face against Vesti's shoulder.
Edinburgh vanished completely behind her cushion.
Takao disappeared beneath her blanket so quickly that Atago barely had time to react.
Laffey, who had been half asleep, jolted awake.
"...Mm?!"
She immediately pulled her blanket over her head again.
Even Bismarck's shoulders stiffened, while Tirpitz's eyes widened slightly.
York, who had been wondering what all the fuss was about, stared at the screen in stunned silence.
Howe's hand shot toward Anson's arm.
Anson noticed.
"Oh? I thought you weren't scared, sis—"
"NOT. A. WORD."
Wales covered her mouth, struggling not to laugh.
And Yorktown?
Yorktown sat perfectly still, watching the screen with genuine interest.
"Oh, that was a good one."
Every frightened girl within earshot slowly turned toward her.
Their expressions were almost identical.
What is wrong with this woman?!
Enterprise stared at her sister in disbelief.
"Yorktown... how are you still smiling?"
Yorktown blinked.
"Because it's a good movie?"
A collective groan rose from the audience.
They had made a terrible mistake.
An absolutely terrible mistake.
The title had been misleading. The nun was not harmless. The movie was not less frightening than Insidious.
If anything, it was worse.
Much, much worse.
And the worst part was that Yorktown seemed to be enjoying every second of it.
"Don't worry, everyone," she said cheerfully. "I'm sure the next scene won't be as scary."
The girls stared at her in horror.
Neon slowly turned toward Anis.
"Anis..."
"What?"
"I think Mom is the scariest person in this room."
Anis nodded solemnly.
"For once, Neon, I completely agree."
On the screen, the music began to build again.
Takao pulled her blanket over her head.
Atago smiled and wrapped an affectionate arm around her sister.
"Don't worry, Takao-chan. Big sister is here~."
"I AM NOT AFRAID!"
"Of course not, Takao-chan."
The next jump scare was only seconds away.
And aboard the Daedalus, an entire cinema full of supposedly fearless shipgirls and Nikkes was about to discover that surviving a battlefield was one thing.
Surviving movie night with Yorktown was another entirely.
===============
After dinner, Yuuki and his companions gathered on the observation deck of the Philadelphia.
The deck had been designed to provide a comfortable place for relaxation, with artificial grass covering part of the floor and spacious seating areas overlooking the vastness of space. Under normal circumstances, the station's automated systems could adjust the lighting to simulate almost any environment, but tonight, nobody had requested any special arrangements.
They simply wanted to enjoy the view.
Yuuki sat on the soft grass with Yuu beside him. Sandy, Eldridge, and Cinderella had settled nearby, while Esche and Oberis sat together, gazing through the enormous observation windows.
Below them, Earth shone like a magnificent blue jewel suspended in the darkness.
Clouds drifted across its surface, swirling over vast oceans and continents. The lights of cities glittered along the nightside, while the sunlight illuminated the world in brilliant shades of blue, white, and green.
For a moment, it was difficult to believe that the same planet was plagued by Sirens and Raptures.
Cinderella gazed at the spectacle with undisguised fascination.
"So beautiful..."
She had always been obsessed with beauty, but seeing Earth from space had given her an entirely new perspective. The beauty she had once associated primarily with herself and the things she admired was only a tiny part of what the world had to offer.
There was beauty in the oceans, in the clouds, in the continents stretching beneath them, and in the delicate balance of a planet teeming with life.
And now, she could appreciate it all without fear.
"Ear-th... beautiful."
Eldridge sat close to Yuu, her gaze fixed on the planet below.
Yuu smiled and gently patted her head.
"Yes, it certainly is."
"Right?" Sandy exclaimed, stretching her arms behind her head. "Who would've thought the view from up here would be this awesome?!"
Yuuki chuckled.
"Look at it. From up here, it's almost as if we don't even know that the Earth is under the control of the Sirens and Raptures."
His smile faded slightly as he contemplated the view.
The planet was beautiful, but its beauty concealed the suffering of countless people living beneath its skies. Entire regions remained under enemy control, and much of the world was still far from safe.
Yet, looking at Earth from this distance reminded him of what they were fighting for.
Not merely territory.
Not simply victory.
But the chance for everyone to live on such a beautiful world without having to fear what tomorrow might bring.
He leaned back on his hands, letting out a quiet breath.
"One day, we'll make sure everyone can enjoy this view without worrying about what's happening down there."
Yuu glanced at him, recognizing the determination behind his words. She reached over and gently took his hand.
Cinderella continued gazing at the planet, her expression softening.
She knew better than most what it meant to lose one's freedom and be forced to endure a life filled with suffering. The opportunity to sit here peacefully, surrounded by people who cared about her, was something she would never take for granted.
Beside them, Esche and Oberis were equally captivated.
"Ah, to gaze upon the stars from above..." Oberis murmured. "To think that humans and magical creatures alike inhabit this world, yet we have never seen it from such a perspective. We have spent so long bound to our home that we never imagined we might one day see the world from beyond its skies."
Esche nodded, her eyes reflecting the distant stars.
"Indeed. Thou hast truly brought us to experience the joy of discovering new things."
Yuuki smiled at the two fairies.
"There's a lot more out there waiting for you. You haven't even seen the Moon yet."
Both fairies immediately turned toward him.
"The Moon?" Oberis asked.
"Yes. Once we finish setting up the Chronosphere there, I'll take you both on a visit."
Esche's expression brightened.
"Truly?"
"Of course."
Oberis clasped her hands together, practically bouncing in excitement.
"Then we shall look forward to it!"
Yuuki laughed.
"Just don't get any ideas about building a garden on the Moon without telling me first."
Esche and Oberis exchanged glances.
"...A garden on the Moon?"
Yuuki immediately regretted giving them the idea.
Yuu giggled beside him.
"Chief, I think you've just given them another project."
"Great. Just what I needed."
Sandy burst out laughing.
"HAHAHA! Imagine a garden on the Moon! That'd be so cool!"
"Moon... garden..." Eldridge murmured thoughtfully.
Cinderella smiled.
"Perhaps we could create a garden filled with flowers that glow beneath the stars. It would be beautiful."
Yuuki stared at them.
"Please don't tell me all of you are seriously considering this."
Nobody answered.
Their expressions said everything.
He sighed.
"I knew I shouldn't have said anything."
Yuu leaned against his shoulder, giggling.
For once, Yuuki decided not to worry about what new project he might have accidentally inspired. They had spent enough time dealing with crises, research, and preparations for the future.
Tonight, they could simply enjoy themselves.
And so they did.
They continued chatting about the view, the Moon, and the places they hoped to visit someday. The conversation gradually wandered from one subject to another, accompanied by the quiet hum of the station's life-support systems.
Eventually, the conversation slowed.
Sandy stretched out on the artificial grass, declaring that she was only going to rest her eyes for a moment.
Eldridge curled up beside Yuu.
Cinderella settled comfortably against Yuuki's other side, reluctant to leave such a beautiful view.
Esche and Oberis eventually succumbed to sleep as well, their earlier excitement giving way to the peaceful atmosphere.
Yuuki had intended to stay awake a little longer.
That plan didn't last.
With the warmth of Yuu beside him, the gentle atmosphere of the observation deck, and the quiet presence of his companions, he gradually drifted off to sleep.
For once, there were no alarms, no urgent reports, and no one demanding his attention.
Just a peaceful night beneath the stars.
The first rays of sunlight illuminated the observation deck.
Yuuki slowly opened his eyes, blinking as he adjusted to the brightness.
For a few seconds, he couldn't quite remember where he was.
Then he looked through the enormous windows.
Earth.
The planet hung majestically before him, bathed in the golden light of dawn. The sunlight crept across its curved horizon, illuminating the atmosphere with a brilliant blue glow.
It was a breathtaking sight.
Yuuki remained still, simply taking it all in.
Then he became aware of his immediate surroundings.
Yuu was sleeping peacefully beside him, her head resting near his shoulder.
Cinderella was curled up on his other side, looking every bit as content as she had the previous evening.
And Eldridge...
Eldridge was sleeping directly on top of him.
Yuuki looked down at the little shipgirl, who had apparently decided that he made an excellent pillow.
A short distance away, Sandy was still sprawled across the grass, snoring loudly enough to challenge the station's ventilation systems.
"...How did we end up like this?"
He vaguely remembered Yuu preparing pillows and blankets for everyone before they settled down for the night. At the time, it had seemed like a perfectly reasonable idea.
He hadn't expected everyone to turn him into a communal sleeping arrangement.
Still, he couldn't bring himself to complain too much.
Looking at the sunrise, he felt a quiet appreciation for the world before him.
Earth had its share of cruelty, conflict, and suffering. Yet, from this distance, it was difficult not to marvel at its beauty.
The oceans, the clouds, the continents, and the light spreading across the horizon all seemed to form a masterpiece.
Yuuki had seen countless wonders throughout his life, from advanced civilizations and extraordinary technology to magical realms that defied conventional understanding.
But this view was something special.
It reminded him that the universe still held countless things worth discovering—and that the world he had been fighting to protect was beautiful enough to deserve every effort he made.
He silently offered a prayer of gratitude to God for the world He had created.
Then, after a moment of peaceful contemplation, another thought crossed his mind.
...I do miss sleeping alone sometimes.
He loved the girls. He truly did.
But between shipgirls, Nikkes, fairies, and everyone else who seemed to enjoy treating him as their personal pillow, getting a full night's sleep without someone clinging to him had become something of a luxury.
Perhaps he should build himself a private bedroom with an exceptionally sturdy lock.
He could already imagine the protests.
A soft movement beside him interrupted his thoughts.
"Morning, chief..."
Yuu stirred, slowly opening her eyes. She looked up at him with a sleepy smile before leaning forward to give him a gentle morning kiss.
"Morning, Yuu."
She glanced toward Earth and paused.
"Oh... that's beautiful."
Yuuki smiled.
"That's what I thought."
Yuu rested against him again, content to admire the view for a little longer.
Before long, Cinderella began to stir.
She blinked sleepily, then looked up at Yuuki.
"Good morning, my Prince."
"Morning, Cinderella. Did you sleep well?"
"Very well."
She sat up slightly, only to become distracted by the breathtaking view beyond the windows.
Her eyes widened.
"Oh... I wish I could wake up to this view every morning. With you by my side."
She gazed at Earth with an expression of pure delight, taking in the sunlight shimmering across the planet.
Then she glanced toward Sandy.
The Eagle Union shipgirl was still sleeping on the grass, her mouth open as she snored without the slightest concern for the world around her.
Cinderella's smile became somewhat mischievous.
"Unlike certain someone, who seems perfectly content to sleep through such a magnificent sight."
Yuuki followed her gaze and chuckled.
"Give her a break. She had a lot of fun last night."
"That much is obvious, my Prince."
A faint electric crackle came from Eldridge, who was finally beginning to wake up.
She lifted her head from Yuuki's chest and blinked at him.
"Morning... Eldridge."
"Morning... sleepy..."
Yuuki smiled at her choice of words.
"Yes, you certainly seem to have enjoyed your sleep."
Eldridge yawned, then glanced around the observation deck. Her eyes eventually settled on Sandy, who remained completely oblivious to everything happening around her.
Yuuki gently patted Eldridge's head.
"Hmm... would you mind waking Sandy up for me?"
Eldridge nodded.
"Okay..."
Yuuki expected her to walk over and give Sandy a gentle shake.
Perhaps call her name.
Maybe tug at her sleeve.
Instead, Eldridge raised one hand.
ZZZT!
A brief burst of electricity crackled through the air.
Sandy jolted upright.
"I'M AWAKE!"
She scrambled to her feet, her hair a mess and her eyes wide with alarm.
"WHAT HAPPENED?! ARE WE UNDER ATTACK?!"
Eldridge tilted her head.
"Morning, Sandy."
Sandy froze.
She slowly turned toward Eldridge, then looked at Yuuki, Yuu, and Cinderella, all of whom were staring at her.
"...I am alive!"
Eldridge nodded innocently.
"Sandy awake."
Yuuki immediately eyes her.
"Hold on, is this how you wake her up?"
Eldridge blinked.
"...Yes."
Cinderella covered her mouth, trying to suppress her laughter.
Yuu was less successful, giggling as she leaned against Yuuki.
Sandy grins at all of them despite just got a morning jump start.
"Sandy's all awake!"
Yuuki shook his head, smiling helplessly.
"At least you're awake now."
Sandy opened her mouth to say something, then glanced at the window.
The magnificent view of Earth greeted her.
For a moment, she forgot what she had been complaining about.
"...Whoa."
The sunlight spread across the planet, illuminating the clouds and oceans in a brilliant display of color.
Sandy's expression softened.
"Okay... that's actually amazing."
Cinderella smiled knowingly.
"See? It was worth waking up for."
Sandy crossed her arms, still looking slightly offended.
"Yeah, well... next time, wake me up normally!"
Eldridge tilted her head.
"Okay."
A brief pause followed.
Then she added, in the same quiet voice:
"Next time, two zaps?"
"ABSOLUTELY NOT!"
The observation deck erupted into laughter.
Yuuki was still enjoying the peaceful morning when his HUD chimed.
An incoming call.
The caller ID displayed Vergil's name.
Yuuki accepted the call, and his brother's familiar voice came through immediately.
"Yo, you awake?"
"Yeah... sort of." Yuuki rubbed his eyes, still feeling the effects of sleeping on artificial grass all night. "No Belfast forcing me to get up this morning, so we kind of overslept."
He glanced at his HUD.
08:25 AM.
For a moment, he simply stared at the time.
It had been nearly two weeks since he'd last enjoyed a morning without having to wake up early by Belfast. Apparently, sleeping beneath the stars with a group of girls had finally given his exhausted body the opportunity to catch up on some much-needed rest.
Beside him, Yuu smiled sleepily.
She had actually woken up earlier, but seeing Yuuki still asleep, she'd decided to stay beside him rather than disturb his rare moment of peace.
Vergil chuckled through the communicator.
"Well, enjoy it while you can. The Revival Machine is ready."
Yuuki immediately straightened.
"Wait, what?"
"The Revival Machine," Vergil repeated, sounding far too pleased with himself. "It's up and running. The initial tests went well, and the researchers have completed the preliminary system checks."
Yuuki's sleepy expression vanished.
"You're serious?"
"Do I sound like I'm joking?"
"No, but—"
"The machine is ready, Yuuki. If you want to test it, we're waiting for you."
Yuuki was already getting to his feet.
"Wait, we'll be there! Give us an hour to freshen up and grab something to eat!"
"An hour? Fine. I am going to play around with the portal gun in the meantime."
"Yeah, yeah. See you soon!"
The call ended.
For a brief moment, Yuuki stood still, staring at the now-empty communication window.
Then he turned toward the others, unable to hide his excitement.
"Well, it's ready!"
Yuu's eyes brightened.
"The Revival Machine? Already?"
"Yeah! Vergil says the preliminary tests went well."
She smiled, clearly pleased by the news.
"Those girls really do work fast. I suppose everyone has been looking forward to seeing this project completed."
"They have," Yuuki replied. "Especially the girls waiting for their missing comrades."
His excitement was tempered by the significance of what lay ahead.
The Revival Machine wasn't just another technological achievement. It represented a chance to bring back those who had been lost—a chance to reunite friends, sisters, and comrades who had spent far too long separated by death.
They still needed to verify that the machine could successfully reconstruct a body and restore the corresponding consciousness using a Wisdom Cube. The successful preliminary tests were encouraging, but the real test would be bringing someone back.
And today, they might finally take that first step.
Yuu rose to her feet and stretched.
"Shall we head back to our quarters, get cleaned up, and have breakfast?"
"Definitely." Yuuki glanced down at his clothes. "I need a bath after spending the entire night out here."
Cinderella stood up as well, carefully smoothing her outfit.
"Agreed, my Prince. As wonderful as the view was, I would prefer to greet the morning without grass in my hair."
Sandy immediately checked her own hair.
"Wait! Do I have grass in mine?!"
Eldridge quietly reached up and plucked a tiny blade of artificial grass from Sandy's hair.
"Here."
Sandy stared at it.
"...Oh."
Yuu giggled.
"At least it's not real grass."
"That's not the point!" Sandy protested.
Yuuki shook his head, laughing.
"Come on. Let's get ready. We have something important to do today."
Yuu gathered the pillows and blankets scattered across the observation deck. With a quick movement, she stored them in her inventory, leaving the artificial grass neat and tidy once again.
Sandy and Eldridge watched with interest, while Cinderella gave the observation deck one final glance.
"I hope we can do this again sometime," Cinderella said softly. "Perhaps another evening when we have nothing urgent to attend to."
"Of course," Yuuki replied. "We can even bring Esche and Oberis along again. I'm sure they'll love it."
He glanced around.
The two fairies had already returned to their own world earlier that night, eager to continue exploring the station once they had awakened properly.
With the others ready, Yuuki reached for his compact portal gun.
A familiar blue light illuminated the device's display as he selected the coordinates for their residential quarters.
The weapon hummed softly, its crystal containment chamber glowing as the system established the destination.
A swirling blue portal opened before them.
Sandy leaned forward, peering into the shimmering passage.
"Heh! I'm still not tired of this thing!"
"Neither am I," Yuuki admitted.
He had to acknowledge that the portal gun was rapidly becoming one of his favorite inventions. Why walk through a maze of corridors when he could simply open a portal and arrive wherever he wanted?
It was convenient, efficient, and—most importantly—saved him from having to spend unnecessary time traveling between locations.
Vergil might have designed his own portal device, but Yuuki had every intention of making the most of theirs.
"All right, everyone. Let's go."
Yuu stepped through first, followed by Cinderella, Eldridge, and Sandy.
Yuuki glanced back at the observation deck one last time before following them.
The blue portal rippled quietly, then closed behind him.
Within seconds, the observation deck was empty once more, leaving only the magnificent view of Earth hanging beyond the windows.
Meanwhile, Yuuki and his companions had a machine to see, a breakfast to enjoy, and a potentially historic day ahead of them.
For the first time in a long while, Yuuki was eager to get started.
====
An hour later, Yuuki and his companions arrived at the research laboratory through a portal.
Sandy stepped through first, followed closely by Eldridge, Cinderella, and Yuu. Yuuki emerged last, casually dismissing the portal gun's display as the swirling blue passage closed behind him.
They had spent the past hour freshening up and enjoying breakfast before heading straight to the laboratory.
Now, however, breakfast was the last thing on their minds.
Sandy looked around the enormous chamber, her eyes immediately drawn to the machine occupying its center.
"So, who's going to be the first one brought back?"
Eldridge tilted her head.
"First... revived?"
"That's right!" Sandy nodded enthusiastically. "I mean, this machine can bring shipgirls back to life like us, right? I wanna know who's coming back first!"
Cinderella gazed at the apparatus with fascination.
"My Prince, you mentioned that this machine could revive Nikkes as well as Shipgirls. Is that truly possible?"
"That's the goal," Yuuki answered. "The original machine was designed specifically for Shipgirls, but we improved the reconstruction system to accommodate Nikkes, too. We've completed the blueprint and preliminary tests, but the real test begins now."
Cinderella's expression brightened.
The possibility of bringing back those who had been lost was something she could hardly imagine. She knew all too well how cruel the loss of a loved one could be, and the thought that others might be given a second chance at life filled her with hope.
Meanwhile, Sandy and Eldridge continued examining the machine, their curiosity growing by the second.
To understand the significance of this moment, however, one had to look back several decades.
The original Revival Machine had been developed by Azur Lane following the devastating war between the factions thirty years ago. Its creation had been one of the greatest technological breakthroughs in the history of the Shipgirls.
For the first time, fallen Shipgirls could be brought back and become the true symbol of unity.
Comrades who had sacrificed themselves in battle could return to their sisters. Families torn apart by war could be reunited. Those who had once been mourned as lost could be given another chance to live.
Yet such power could not be entrusted to everyone.
As part of the agreement that secured peace and alliance between the former enemies, Azur Lane had retained exclusive control over the Revival Machine. This ensured that no faction could exploit its capabilities for its own military ambitions or abuse the technology for personal gain.
Under a single, unified faction, Shipgirls who had fallen during the war were gradually reunited with their surviving comrades.
For a time, the machine became a symbol of the peace they had fought so hard to achieve.
Then, fifteen years ago, a nuclear strike rendered the machine inoperable.
Its destruction had been a devastating setback, and the technology required to restore it remained beyond their reach for years. However, the blueprints had survived.
Now, thanks to GDI's advanced technology and Yuuki's improvements, the Revival Machine had finally been reconstructed.
And this time, its capabilities would extend beyond Shipgirls.
Nikkes, too, might be given the chance to return from the dead.
For those who had lost sisters, friends, and loved ones, this was more than a technological achievement.
It was hope.
"You made it!"
Vergil approached Yuuki with a broad grin, looking as though he had been waiting all morning for this moment. Suki and Dasha stood behind him, both watching the gathering with interest.
"This is a historic moment!" Vergil declared. "Do you have any idea how long I've been waiting to see this thing operational?"
Yuuki chuckled.
"Yeah, I can imagine."
"Imagine? I practically lived in this laboratory while we were putting everything together!"
Suki gave him a knowing look.
"And we certainly noticed, dear."
Dasha nodded.
"Especially when you started talking about synchronization matrices during dinner."
Vergil coughed awkwardly.
"That was an important discussion."
"Of course it was," Suki replied sweetly.
Yuuki grinned at the familiar exchange before turning his attention back to the machine.
"So, everything is ready?"
"Almost everything," Vergil answered, his expression becoming more serious. "There's one limitation we need to keep in mind."
Yuuki raised an eyebrow.
"The charge capacity?"
"Exactly."
Vergil gestured toward the machine.
"Under the current configuration, it can perform five revivals before entering a cooldown period. Once those five charges are exhausted, the system will need at least one to two weeks to recover before we can use it again."
Sandy's excitement dimmed slightly.
"Wait, only five?"
"Five per operating cycle," Vergil clarified. "We can bring back five shipgirls, then the machine needs time to recharge. We can't simply keep feeding it energy and force it to continue operating. Doing so could destabilize the reconstruction matrix and jeopardize the entire process."
Eldridge tilted her head.
"Five... then wait?"
"That's right," Vergil replied.
Yuuki crossed his arms, considering the limitation.
"So, I need to choose five people to revive first, and everyone else will have to wait until the machine is ready again."
"Yeah." Vergil's expression softened. "I know it's not ideal. There are plenty of people waiting to be reunited with their loved ones, and we can't bring everyone back at once. But they've already waited years. What's another week or two compared to that?"
Yuuki fell silent for a moment.
He understood Vergil's reasoning.
The machine's limitations were unfortunate, but forcing it beyond its safe operating parameters would be irresponsible. They were attempting something extraordinary, and the lives they hoped to restore deserved more than a rushed experiment.
"Okay," Yuuki finally said. "We work within its limits. Five revivals, then we wait for the next cycle."
Vergil nodded.
"Good. Now, I assume you've already made your choices?"
Yuuki's expression grew solemn.
"Yeah. After you called me, I made my decision."
He opened his inventory and withdrew four additional Wisdom Cubes, holding them carefully in his hands.
Vergil looked at the cubes, then back at Yuuki.
"So, you have all five candidates ready?"
"Yes. These are the ones I need to prioritize. Their return is necessary for what we need to do next."
He didn't elaborate further, but Vergil understood that Yuuki's choices had been made for a reason. Some of these revivals were not merely personal reunions; they were also necessary for the plans and responsibilities awaiting them.
Suki and Dasha exchanged a glance but chose not to interrupt.
Vergil nodded, accepting Yuuki's decision.
"All right. Then let's get started."
He reached into a secure containment case and retrieved the Wisdom Cube they had borrowed for the machine's initial examination.
Holding it carefully, he offered it to Yuuki.
"Why don't you do the honors? It's your decision, after all."
Yuuki accepted the cube.
For a moment, he simply held it in his hands, studying the faint light pulsing within its crystalline structure.
This small object was the key to bringing someone back from the dead.
It contained the data needed to reconstruct the individual associated with it—the foundation upon which the Revival Machine would rebuild a body and restore its owner.
And today, they were going to find out whether their work had truly succeeded.
Yuuki took a steady breath.
"All right. Let's do this."
He walked toward the center of the laboratory, where the Revival Machine stood ready.
Its main assembly consisted of an enormous circular metallic structure, reinforced by thick support struts and an intricate arrangement of mechanical arms. Magnetic confinement rings surrounded the central chamber, their surfaces lined with glowing conduits that pulsed with stored energy.
At the heart of the apparatus was a suspended containment field designed to hold the Wisdom Cube in perfect alignment.
The entire structure hummed with restrained power.
Golden indicator lights flickered along the surrounding consoles as the researchers monitored the system's readiness. Every component had been checked, every connection verified, and every safeguard activated.
There would be no second chance if they made a careless mistake.
Yuuki stepped onto the central platform and carefully positioned the Wisdom Cube within the designated containment field.
Magnetic restraints activated around it, suspending the cube in midair.
He took one final look at the crystalline object before turning toward Vergil.
"Ready."
Vergil stood at the primary control console, his expression focused.
He nodded.
"Initiating the revival sequence."
The laboratory's ambient lights dimmed as power was redirected toward the machine.
One by one, the magnetic rings began to rotate.
A low hum reverberated throughout the chamber, gradually increasing in intensity as the system built up its energy reserves. The metallic arms adjusted their positions, locking into place around the suspended Wisdom Cube.
Then, the first golden laser activated.
A narrow beam struck the cube.
Another followed.
Then another.
Within seconds, multiple golden beams converged upon the crystalline object, illuminating the entire chamber with brilliant light.
The Wisdom Cube began to glow.
At first, its radiance was faint, barely visible against the surrounding energy field. Gradually, however, the light intensified, spreading through the cube's crystalline facets until it shone like a miniature star.
The machine responded immediately.
Energy surged through the magnetic rings, and the surrounding support structures vibrated as the reconstruction matrix came online.
A holographic display appeared above the central platform, showing countless streams of data as the system began processing the cube's information.
Yuuki watched intently.
The golden beams continued to strike the cube, extracting and translating the data required for reconstruction. Tiny particles of light emerged from the containment field, swirling around the center of the machine.
At first, they formed nothing more than an indistinct cloud.
Then the particles began to gather.
The outline of a body slowly emerged within the golden radiance.
First came the shape of the torso, followed by the limbs and head. Layer upon layer of luminous particles assembled themselves, gradually forming a complete silhouette.
The machine's magnetic rings adjusted their alignment, guiding the reconstruction process with extraordinary precision.
On the surrounding monitors, the researchers watched as the body's structural integrity readings climbed toward completion.
Vergil leaned forward, his eyes fixed on the data.
"Body reconstruction is progressing within acceptable parameters. The synchronization matrix is stable... and the Wisdom Cube's output remains consistent."
Yuuki barely heard him.
His attention was entirely focused on the figure taking shape before him.
He knew who it was.
He had known from the moment he selected the first Wisdom Cube.
The first person he wanted to bring back.
The first reunion he had chosen to make possible.
As the golden particles continued to gather, the figure became clearer, revealing the outline of a woman.
Yuuki's hands slowly curled into fists at his sides.
Come on...
The light grew brighter, filling the center of the laboratory.
The machine had begun its first true revival.
And Yuuki was about to see someone precious to him return to this world.
======
Meanwhile, within the Void World...
The shipgirls had gathered around one particular member of their fleet.
They had been waiting for this moment for years, holding on to the faint hope that one day, their missing comrades might finally return. Some had learned to live with the pain of their absence, while others still found themselves staring into the distance, wondering whether they would ever see their loved ones again.
Then, something extraordinary happened.
The chosen shipgirl began to glow.
A gentle radiance enveloped her body, growing brighter with every passing moment. The light was unmistakably similar to the one that had surrounded their Commander when he departed the Void World.
For a moment, the surrounding shipgirls could only stare.
Then, realization dawned upon them.
"He did it..."
"He really did it!"
"Commander... he finally did it!"
Their voices trembled with disbelief and excitement. Some covered their mouths, while others clutched their hands against their chests, scarcely daring to believe what they were witnessing.
After so many years of waiting, the promise they had held on to was finally becoming reality.
Hood gazed at the radiant figure, her eyes shimmering with emotion.
"Dear Sir... you did it."
Her voice was barely above a whisper, filled with the gratitude she had carried for so long.
Nearby, Amagi closed her eyes for a brief moment before smiling softly.
"Shikikan-sama..."
She had always believed in his ability to accomplish the impossible, yet even she had struggled to imagine that this day would truly come.
Now, she could hardly contain her joy.
Elizabeth, meanwhile, wore an expression of triumphant satisfaction.
"That consort! He finally did it!"
She lifted her chin proudly, as though Yuuki's success were another achievement for the Royal Navy to celebrate.
"Honestly! It took him long enough to fulfill his promise!"
Despite her complaints, the relief in her voice was unmistakable.
Around them, whispers spread through the gathering.
Some shipgirls were openly delighted, their faces bright with hope at the prospect of seeing their sisters again. Others exchanged emotional embraces, while a few quietly wiped away tears they had held back for far too long.
Not everyone was entirely happy, however.
Some watched with envy, wondering when their own turn would come. Others struggled to conceal their impatience, painfully aware that although the Revival Machine had finally been completed, there were still many waiting to return.
Their feelings were understandable.
They had all endured the same uncertainty, the same separation, and the same longing to see the world beyond the Void once more.
But for now, they allowed themselves to celebrate.
Because one of their own was finally going home.
The chosen shipgirl looked down at her glowing hands. The familiar sensation spreading through her body filled her with warmth, and for the first time in years, the future no longer seemed so distant.
A gentle smile appeared on her face.
"Hana..."
Her voice trembled slightly as she spoke the name of the person she had missed so dearly.
Then she thought of another person waiting for her.
"Enty..."
Her smile widened, and her eyes glistened with unshed tears.
"I'm coming home."
The light surrounding her grew brighter.
And within the depths of the Void World, hope finally became something more than a distant dream.