- Location
- State of Denial
Quick question regarding Yamashiro, if the shipgirls come back in stock form, was her pagoda hairpiece originally a tripod?
Belated Battleships (KanColle) [REHOST]
- Thread starter theJMPer
- Start date
Old Iron
Admiral Unfun
- Location
- The Southwestern Deadlands of America
Yamashiro: *shakes head rapidly*
Yes, it was. Didn't look half bad.
Yamashiro: Don't tell them that!
Too late?
In other news...
I was out at the Arizona Memorial today.
I thought I would be a mess, but when I finally laid eyes on her... It was something else. The horrifying damage, the corrosion and sea growth, and the oil. It was unreal. But it was also the most serene and respectful place I've ever experienced. Despite all the divers and the bustle, it still felt like that.
Still... so many flowers and so many tears.
The heavens wept and her grave was encompassed by a blanket of mist.
...Wow.
I did get to meet a survivor from Pennsylvania and get his autograph. Mr Delton Walling.
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Skywalker_T-65
Writer with too many ideas.
- Location
- United States
- Pronouns
- Plural/They/He/Her
On the Ari note...
Say what you will about them.
But Pacific can still do really really effective art if they want to.
Say what you will about them.
But Pacific can still do really really effective art if they want to.
esseresse
R'lyth Power Make-up
- Location
- divorceville, state of depression
- Pronouns
- They/Her
I think i hear *Incoherntly salty battleship noises*
http://www.ncaa.com/news/football/article/2016-12-10/army-navy-game-full-recap-armys-21-17-victory
http://www.ncaa.com/news/football/article/2016-12-10/army-navy-game-full-recap-armys-21-17-victory
Dirtnap
Kanmusu Affecionado
Nah it took em 15 years to finally beat em.
Spectre
eternal servant to the Fire/EMS gods
- Location
- NY
Jersey: "I wonder if we're eligible to play?"
Glitchrr36
Slick's Short Company, CEO
- Location
- The Wastes
- Pronouns
- He/Him
Jersey could literally just hold the ball above her head and walk out from anywhere to the other side of the field, with all the army guys just clinging to her legs
Spectre
eternal servant to the Fire/EMS gods
- Location
- NY
I'm more imagining the 4-3 defense they could make. Think about it Arizona and pennsy at DT, Jersey and Wash as defensive ends, and the cruisers at linebacker. You wouldn't even need any DB's on defense with that front 7.
Burning Baron
This position needs more entrenching.
- Location
- In here, not out there.
We all know Big J would be a running back. Ain't nobody gonna catch her.
Spectre
eternal servant to the Fire/EMS gods
- Location
- NY
why not both.
Burning Baron
This position needs more entrenching.
- Location
- In here, not out there.
'Shipgirls and Navy boys, presenting the Big Stick, or as her team calls her, the Unstoppable Force. Playing whatever position she chooses.' 
And I'm pretty sure it wouldn't be cheating to use her Fire Control to calculate a pass. It's all mental, to her.
And I'm pretty sure it wouldn't be cheating to use her Fire Control to calculate a pass. It's all mental, to her.
esseresse
R'lyth Power Make-up
- Location
- divorceville, state of depression
- Pronouns
- They/Her
I think that mutli-ton steel armor would be considered Illegal Equipment and would result in ejection from the game.'Shipgirls and Navy boys, presenting the Big Stick, or as her team calls her, the Unstoppable Force. Playing whatever position she chooses.'
And I'm pretty sure it wouldn't be cheating to use her Fire Control to calculate a pass. It's all mental, to her.
Burning Baron
This position needs more entrenching.
- Location
- In here, not out there.
It's not like the Navy needs it. It's only the first time in 15 years that they lost to Army.
P.S. I don't think anybody, though I don't want to assume, would be upset over waiting for an omake for this particular situation, i.e. the 'Local' Girls watching the Army-Navy game, while the JMSDF Girls look on confused.
Always Late
Lacking in coffee, sleep, and brains
- Location
- Ohio
Nah, nah, nah. They'd catch on in a bit.while the JMSDF Girls look on confused.
See, Japan's got a pretty rabid baseball fanbase. It's all about the trashtalk, cheering loudly, and banner-waving.
Plus the Imperial Japanese Navy shipgirls would understand an Army-Navy rivalry pretty damn well.
Burning Baron
This position needs more entrenching.
- Location
- In here, not out there.
Is it too soon?
Burning Baron
This position needs more entrenching.
- Location
- In here, not out there.
My answer is 'YES!'
Spectre
eternal servant to the Fire/EMS gods
- Location
- NY
I'm kind of disappointed in albie. I expected her to take more then just the trophy...
Omake: A certain Christmastime lady
Old Iron
Admiral Unfun
- Location
- The Southwestern Deadlands of America
(/ =ω=)/
* * * * *
Jintsuu all but staggered towards the front door, her entire presence exuding an aura of exhaustion.
Today, and many of the previous days, had been draining on a level she hadn't experienced in quite some time. Not since she'd first had human feet to stand on, really. And that had imposed its own unique set of problems. The after-action report for the day hadn't played nice either.
She'd known that operations were steadily upticking and that they'd be preparing accordingly, but this was something of a genuinely alarming pace. Made all the more so due to Hiei's removal from the combat roster and subsequent appointment to an instructor's post. Add in the gossip surrounding Arizona and Admiral Richardson along with the string of incidents involving Pennsylvania immediately following her summoning and even she would admit she was feeling rather overwhelmed.
That didn't even count the holidays.
A sigh escaped her lips as she reached for the door.
They'd even missed Christmas.
The objective part of her mind agreed with the soldier in her that it was a small price to pay for being prepared. Plus, the Abyssals did not plan their assaults around their calendar or have any measure of consideration. At least a human foe might offer a short armistice for the day. Not always, but at least the chance existed.
But it would have been her first Christmas as a person and more importantly, her first Christmas with her family.
Well, her new family.
Sendai and Naka weren't exactly a hop, skip, and a jump away.
No one really seemed to be in much a mind about it though. Certainly Jane was being a good sport about everything. And the Admiral was doing his best as well. But despite everyone's best efforts there was still a slight feeling of gloom as the festive day had come and gone without much notice.
She entered her home after shaking away the less cheerful thoughts and was immediately assaulted by a wave of delicious smelling foods. Her ears perked at the just loud enough music playing over her radio while her rangefinders took in hastily arranged decorations with due surprise.
How had this all gotten done so fast?
"Ou! Jane! I'm out of tinsel!"
...That would actually explain a lot of the decorations.
"Shimakaze, what's going on?" she called out, glancing about the foyer at all the sparkling baubles and colorful items hanging from anything that could hold them. There had been no notice of any kind of party. And she prided herself on knowing what was going on around this place. Or at least not slacking in finding out what she didn't know.
"Putting up decorations?" replied Shimakaze. She dashed by, giving only a brief nod of greeting in the process. There were things to do. And she had to get them done fast!
"Hi, Jintsuu-mama!" Exclaimed Jane, hot on Shimakaze's heels.
"Shimakaze, I told you to stop running around like that! Jane, you too!" Arizona rounded the corner, giving a stern glare in the direction the duo had bolted off in. "Honestly. They could stand for a little calm."
Jintsuu merely blinked as she turned her gaze from where Jane and Shimakaze had run off and to the American battleship currently wiping her hands on a rather messy looking apron. The sleeves of a fuzzy grey sweater were rolled up to the elbows while calf-length red skirt adorned the standard's lower half. It was a homely look for certain and it looked quite nice on the copper haired woman. But was not exactly high on her list of things to expect today.
"Miss Jintsuu?"
"Oh! Sorry. I must have drifted off for a moment." Jintsuu's face flushed a slight shade of cherry as she realized she'd been staring. She reached up and pulled the long, green ribbon from her hair, letting the brown locks fall freely. "What's going on? I don't recall anyone saying anything about a party."
"You didn't get the message? Miss Hiei said she sent an... email? to you." Arizona furrowed her brow. She might be catching up on modern technology rather well, but there was still much to learn. She could use a tablet or a computer to look up and read things, but she was hardly a power user.
Jintsuu shook her head as she removed her shoes. Oh how wonderful it felt to finally have her screws not so bound.
"I suppose it doesn't matter much at the moment." Arizona beckoned Jintsuu to follow her into the kitchen. "John wanted us to have at least some chance for holiday cheer, so he arranged for us all to have the evening off. He may have only completed arrangements today, but I am surprised no one said anything."
"Today was quite busy. But this would explain why some of you were relieved a bit early." Jintsuu shook her head as she followed Arizona without question. Another ship might have asked why Arizona was using the Admiral's name so casually, but she was not such a ship. She knew the whole story. Every little detail. Too bad it wasn't the information she felt she really wanted a few moments ago. "I must be more tired than I thought to let this all slip."
Arizona merely nodded.
"Well, there's no use dwelling on it now." She removed her gloves with a small flourish. "What can I do to help?"
"You can try one of these and then change into more comfortable clothes." Arizona held up a cookie with a sugary coating and what looked to be an anchor drawn on in blue frosting. There was the hint of playfulness tugging at the corner of her mouth. But surely she hadn't been so infected by Hiei and Mutsu's more mischievous moods and the pleasant feelings of the holiday spirit. Certainly not.
"It would be nice to get out of my uniform first. Thank you." Jintsuu took the offered cookie and smiled. One less than delicate bite later and her smile had turned into something more comparable to Kongou's when talking about Admiral Goto.
"I wager you approve?"
Jintsuu nodded blissfully.
"Miss Hiei put them together," commented Arizona as she turned to check the contents of the oven. The casserole within looked to be finishing up nicely. "In fact, she put together a rather large portion of dinner tonight."
"You didn't make this?" Jintsuu only blinked at the mention of Hiei having been the creator of such a tasty treat. Hiei was an absolutely amazing cook, but when her creations took a turn for the worse, they often were found out the hard way. So she considered her wariness and disbelief quite warranted.
"Heavens, no." Arizona gestured to much of the ongoing cooking. "I am merely keeping an eye on things and following her instructions accordingly."
"You're not quite ready to take on this kind of task?" she asked innocently.
"I am willing, but not yet ready."
"Fair enough." Jintsuu smiled and polished off the last morsel of cookie. She could not help but let that silly expression cross her features again. This was a most dangerous thing indeed. "Then, I shall do as you suggest and go get changed. And hopefully not get run over in the process."
The pounding of feet and rambunctious shouting of the decoration crew reached their ears.
"We may hope. Though you would not be the first and likely not be the last."
Jintsuu arched an eyebrow inquisitively as she took another bite of sinfully delicious baked goods. Arizona was being quite talkative this evening. Odd, but nice to see. Perhaps that shell of hers was starting to give a little. Or she happened to catch her in just the right mood. Either way, she wouldn't complain.
"They bowled over the Lieutenant Commander not even five minutes after being given decorations to hang." Both girls had been given a cautionary scolding by their victim, but it was for naught as they were zipping around again soon after. Arizona crossed her arms and huffed. "At least they've managed to avoid breaking anything. Or plow into my sister."
Jintsuu blinked.
That was something she genuinely was concerned about not knowing.
"Arizona, I would greatly appreciate an explanation." Preferably as of about... five seconds after the most volatile ship in Sasebo had been given an invitation. Ideally before it had been done in the first place. "I mean no offense, but Pennsylvania is not the most personable of ships."
"...No, no she is not." Arizona wished she had more of a defense for Pennsylvania, but there was little to be found. Pennsy's scars and hate ran deep. Down to the keel and suffused into her steel. Love and hard effort had begun to ease her own sufferings were she to admit it, but they were still small bandages for a gaping wound. Whatever would help soothe her sister's heart would not be a small thing.
Jintsuu remained silent and continued waiting for an answer. There might be cheer and good spirit filling her home, but she could not let this slip by unnoticed. This was her home and this was her family.
"I asked John if his invitation to the fleet included her and he said yes." Arizona turned to check the myriad foods Hiei had placed under her watch. So far so good. The potatoes were almost done, so she'd need to get the garlic ready. "I admit I questioned his decision. But he said that if she can't shelve her anger for a single evening like this, then he would be arranging sessions with a counselor."
Jintsuu sighed.
That man refused to let anyone fall to the wayside.
Even someone so dangerous as Pennsylvania.
"We did tell you he would not allow you to languish. It would be hypocritical of us all to cast aside your sister." She smiled with a mixture of resignation and amusement. "Despite how difficult she will be."
"Yeah, he's not that much of an ass."
Both warships turned to the new voice and beheld Hiei clad in jeans and a positively mind-bending dazzle camouflage sweater. Their gazes slowly went cross-eyed as they unwittingly tried to follow the patterns of green, white, and red. Jintsuu even felt herself listing to one side. But for the life of her, she couldn't tell which.
Hiei grinned at their reactions before snapping her fingers with a laugh.
"Eyes up here ladies."
"Hiei... What is that?" Jintsuu managed to ask as she tried to do as was asked of her.
"Cotton based quantum refraction apparel rated for medium level urban camouflage employing Kongou-Class particle entanglement principles."
"...Pardon?"
"Bad Christmas sweater. An All-American tradition!" Hiei gave a thumbs up which finally snapped Arizona out of her stupor. Wow, she really picked a good one if she did say so herself.
"I have concerns about what you consider All-American."
"As do I."
"Hmph. Everyone's a critic."
The sound of an oven timer going off alerted all to the fact that the casserole within was more than likely due for some attention.
"Right! Ari, you handle that. I'll work on the potatoes." Hiei didn't waste a single moment as she became a flurry of activity. Right alongside her was Arizona, tending to dinner with a deft hand. It felt good to work together like this. She glanced over to the only cruiser present. "Jintsuu, go get changed already. Relax. Take a load off. Go pester Mutsu or someone. We've got this."
Jintsuu hesitated for a few moments before acquiescing with a smile.
"Oh, very well. I suppose I don't have much choice but to make myself comfortable."
"That's the spirit!"
"With another cookie for the road."
* * * * *
Jintsuu traipsed down the stairs with a merry smile on her face and clad in infinitely more comfortable garments.
Her duty uniform was hardly uncomfortable, but the mental release of being in something so much more casual was understandably absent.
Hence her choice of stormtrooper themed sweater and oversized skirt-one of Mutsu's-fastened just enough to not slip off her hips. A pair of long, fuzzy socks and her ever present green ribbon completed the ensemble. And oh how wonderful it felt.
An amused giggle escaped her as the sounds of Mutsu and Richardson attempting to do some last minute wrapping of presents reached her. It would seem that her Admiral's XO was having a slight bit of difficulty with the tape. She could offer to help, but she would rather let them have their fun and amusement unobstructed. It wasn't like she couldn't find out all the details later anyways~
With a reckless hop, she bounded over the last few steps and landed perfectly at the base of the stairs.
This time she was more than ready for the destroyer/daughter maelstrom that came barrelling past her. Arizona's mostly fruitless cautions reached her radio room a few moments later. Perhaps Hiei ought to weigh in? Then again, the Emperor's Ship might decide to have some fun herself and join in. Something that would no doubt irritate the redhead even further.
...Speaking of redheads.
Jintsuu rounded the corner and beheld the infinitely more troublesome and dangerous of the two Pennsylvania-Class battleships: the nameship herself.
"Good evening, Miss Pennsylvania."
Pennsylvania simply turned to regard her with a furious red gaze. The standard's grip on the arms of her armchair tightened noticeably.
"Would you like a snack before dinner? Maybe something to drink?" asked Jintsuu politely. When no answer was forthcoming, she all but glided over to the sofa across from Pennsylvania and flopped down without a shred of elegance. "It will be your loss if all the cookies get eaten first."
"I don't want anything." Pennsylvania nearly growled out her response. She didn't want to be here. She didn't want to participate in this revelry. Not when it was hosted by Japanese boats and a flag officer who was far too close to said boats and her sister. It was only Arizona's presence that brought her here tonight. Nothing else.
"You want to be far, far away from here. Where you don't have to see what Japan has become and how close we are to America." Jintsuu leaned back against the plush sofa was a small smile. She did not allow it to grow as she saw the standard's ire rise. "Safe and sound with Arizona. With Utah and Oklahoma. With Cassin and Downes. Somewhere you can protect them from us and somewhere that you can make us pay all at the same time."
Pennsylvania growled, but did not lash out.
"Am I correct?"
"...To the letter."
"I thought so."
The carols playing over the stereo filled the ensuing silence. Jintsuu setting further into her seat with a murmur of contentment and Pennsylvania leaning forward with a conflicted and grouchy expression.
It was Pennsylvania who finally broke it.
"Are they back?"
Jintsuu remained silent.
"Who has come back?" she very nearly demanded.
"None of those four if that's what you mean. Vestal is in Washington though." She arched her back with a satisfied mewling sound as her back loosened. "She's apparently one of the greatest blessings you Americans have received. A good repair ship goes a long way. And her probably more than any other."
"Hmph. Of course. She was caring for the wounded even though she was ablaze herself." Pennsylvania crossed her arms assertively as she spoke, her voice not a snarl for once. If it hadn't been for Vestal, how many more would have sunk or died? And those were the actions of one ship. One crew. So many more had gone above and beyond that morning.
The silence settled in again.
Jingle Bells began to play and Hiei's laughter echoed from the kitchen.
They could hear Arizona cautioning Shimakaze about running with food and the wonder that was the destroyer actually agreeing.
"Miss Pennsylvania, may I ask something of you?" Jintsuu placed her hands in her lap and squared her shoulders.
"What?"
"Just for tonight. May I ask for a ceasefire?" She did not bow her head. No. Rather she matched gazes with the standard and kept it there.
"Why the devil do you want a ceasefire? We're not at war against each other." Pennsylvania gave Jintsuu a look of incredulity. Had the cruiser been hit in the head one too many times? Granted, war would let her finally take her vengeance in the most final manner possible. But that would pull how many lives down along with it?
"Because there are traditions and precedent for enemies laying down arms for Christmas." Jintsuu narrowed her gaze. "And whether you admit it or even realize it, I believe the war never ended for you. That's what your actions ever since your return have told me. So this is the only way I can think of for you and my family to have Christmas together."
There was a rictus of undiluted anger growing on the red eyed standard's face. And if her hands had returned to the armrests, they may have been shattered.
"You... you think y-!"
"Do it for Arizona if no one else."
Pennsylvania looked as if she'd just been slapped by the Secretary of the Navy.
"She still has her nightmares. The demons in her heart refuse to leave her be. The failures and missed chances of her past still cloud her. She's a stubborn old prude and there are times she is genuinely difficult to be around." Jintsuu pointed towards the kitchen. "But she's happy. She has friends, family, even rivals."
"They were the ones who-!"
"And she has made her peace. Hiei was part of the fleet that destroyed your world and now they're friends. Rivals even. Ask Kaga and she will tell you how her offer to end her life in recompense after the war was quite viciously thrown out the proverbial window." There was a measure of ice in Jintsuu's voice, but she needed it. She needed every bit of her composure to speak through the belt armor of Pennsylvania's heart. Not break. Just speak.
"Just for tonight, I ask for an armistice."
Pennsylvania struggled to find words. Her hatred staggered and the fire in her heart flickered. She could wrap up all these words in the guise of brainwashing. She could. But something about doing so felt... wrong. Just this one time.
She stood and crossed the distance to Jintsuu, who still sat firm in her ridiculous sweater. It would be so easy to reach out and break her. But... why didn't the thirst for blood boil up? Why did the thought sour on her tongue?
"...Just who are you?"
"I am my Admiral's yeoman." Jintsuu smiled warmly.
"That's only a half truth." Pennsylvania clenched her fists at her side. She made her decision. "Just... just for tonight. But only if you tell me who you really are."
Jintsuu's smile warmed.
"A lord needs a retainer, does he not?"
Pennsylvania shivered for the second time since meeting the Sendai. And she doubted it would be the last. But a promise was a promise. Even to a subject of hate.
"I'll give you peace for tonight. Just tonight. Tomorrow we're allies again and nothing more." Damn this madhouse and all the mind warping menaces within! But if she were to be a warship of her word, then she could not remain distanced as she was. "...I will go help set the table."
Jintsuu nodded with an approving look.
"Thank you, Miss Pennsylvania. I truly mean it."
Pennsylvania huffed and left the room, stopping only to hang her worn-out greatcoat along the way.
After a few moments, Jintsuu let out a breath and let herself relax. That had been harder than she thought. But at least there was hope yet. No armor was invulnerable. And Arizona was the easiest and most effective means of getting past Pennsylvania's.
She didn't care how cruel or underhanded it might be. If it helped bring a modicum of peace, then so be it.
For Pennsylvania's sake.
For the sake of Japan and America.
For her family's sake.
Jintsuu turned her eyes towards an approaching figure.
"My, my... It's dangerous to take on a battleship by yourself." Mutsu smiled as she walked over to take a seat next to Jintsuu. This woman did so much of her own accord... Really now. She wrapped an arm around her and pulled the cruiser into a hug.
"We both know I've done far more crazy things than that," replied Jintsuu with a laugh. "And it was well worth it. Pennsylvania is hurt in a way none of us can really understand completely."
"Close, but not all the way, hm? I'd be worried if one of us could." Mutsu raised her free hand and pointed towards the growing cacophony as Pennsylvania tried to help. "But you might have made a tiny bit of progress."
Jintsuu giggled.
"And a little progress is better than none, our Lady Retainer~"
"Erk!"
Mutsu laughed as Jintsuu turned bright red.
"Merry Christmas, Jintsuu."
"Merry Christmas."
* * * * *
* * * * *
Jintsuu all but staggered towards the front door, her entire presence exuding an aura of exhaustion.
Today, and many of the previous days, had been draining on a level she hadn't experienced in quite some time. Not since she'd first had human feet to stand on, really. And that had imposed its own unique set of problems. The after-action report for the day hadn't played nice either.
She'd known that operations were steadily upticking and that they'd be preparing accordingly, but this was something of a genuinely alarming pace. Made all the more so due to Hiei's removal from the combat roster and subsequent appointment to an instructor's post. Add in the gossip surrounding Arizona and Admiral Richardson along with the string of incidents involving Pennsylvania immediately following her summoning and even she would admit she was feeling rather overwhelmed.
That didn't even count the holidays.
A sigh escaped her lips as she reached for the door.
They'd even missed Christmas.
The objective part of her mind agreed with the soldier in her that it was a small price to pay for being prepared. Plus, the Abyssals did not plan their assaults around their calendar or have any measure of consideration. At least a human foe might offer a short armistice for the day. Not always, but at least the chance existed.
But it would have been her first Christmas as a person and more importantly, her first Christmas with her family.
Well, her new family.
Sendai and Naka weren't exactly a hop, skip, and a jump away.
No one really seemed to be in much a mind about it though. Certainly Jane was being a good sport about everything. And the Admiral was doing his best as well. But despite everyone's best efforts there was still a slight feeling of gloom as the festive day had come and gone without much notice.
She entered her home after shaking away the less cheerful thoughts and was immediately assaulted by a wave of delicious smelling foods. Her ears perked at the just loud enough music playing over her radio while her rangefinders took in hastily arranged decorations with due surprise.
How had this all gotten done so fast?
"Ou! Jane! I'm out of tinsel!"
...That would actually explain a lot of the decorations.
"Shimakaze, what's going on?" she called out, glancing about the foyer at all the sparkling baubles and colorful items hanging from anything that could hold them. There had been no notice of any kind of party. And she prided herself on knowing what was going on around this place. Or at least not slacking in finding out what she didn't know.
"Putting up decorations?" replied Shimakaze. She dashed by, giving only a brief nod of greeting in the process. There were things to do. And she had to get them done fast!
"Hi, Jintsuu-mama!" Exclaimed Jane, hot on Shimakaze's heels.
"Shimakaze, I told you to stop running around like that! Jane, you too!" Arizona rounded the corner, giving a stern glare in the direction the duo had bolted off in. "Honestly. They could stand for a little calm."
Jintsuu merely blinked as she turned her gaze from where Jane and Shimakaze had run off and to the American battleship currently wiping her hands on a rather messy looking apron. The sleeves of a fuzzy grey sweater were rolled up to the elbows while calf-length red skirt adorned the standard's lower half. It was a homely look for certain and it looked quite nice on the copper haired woman. But was not exactly high on her list of things to expect today.
"Miss Jintsuu?"
"Oh! Sorry. I must have drifted off for a moment." Jintsuu's face flushed a slight shade of cherry as she realized she'd been staring. She reached up and pulled the long, green ribbon from her hair, letting the brown locks fall freely. "What's going on? I don't recall anyone saying anything about a party."
"You didn't get the message? Miss Hiei said she sent an... email? to you." Arizona furrowed her brow. She might be catching up on modern technology rather well, but there was still much to learn. She could use a tablet or a computer to look up and read things, but she was hardly a power user.
Jintsuu shook her head as she removed her shoes. Oh how wonderful it felt to finally have her screws not so bound.
"I suppose it doesn't matter much at the moment." Arizona beckoned Jintsuu to follow her into the kitchen. "John wanted us to have at least some chance for holiday cheer, so he arranged for us all to have the evening off. He may have only completed arrangements today, but I am surprised no one said anything."
"Today was quite busy. But this would explain why some of you were relieved a bit early." Jintsuu shook her head as she followed Arizona without question. Another ship might have asked why Arizona was using the Admiral's name so casually, but she was not such a ship. She knew the whole story. Every little detail. Too bad it wasn't the information she felt she really wanted a few moments ago. "I must be more tired than I thought to let this all slip."
Arizona merely nodded.
"Well, there's no use dwelling on it now." She removed her gloves with a small flourish. "What can I do to help?"
"You can try one of these and then change into more comfortable clothes." Arizona held up a cookie with a sugary coating and what looked to be an anchor drawn on in blue frosting. There was the hint of playfulness tugging at the corner of her mouth. But surely she hadn't been so infected by Hiei and Mutsu's more mischievous moods and the pleasant feelings of the holiday spirit. Certainly not.
"It would be nice to get out of my uniform first. Thank you." Jintsuu took the offered cookie and smiled. One less than delicate bite later and her smile had turned into something more comparable to Kongou's when talking about Admiral Goto.
"I wager you approve?"
Jintsuu nodded blissfully.
"Miss Hiei put them together," commented Arizona as she turned to check the contents of the oven. The casserole within looked to be finishing up nicely. "In fact, she put together a rather large portion of dinner tonight."
"You didn't make this?" Jintsuu only blinked at the mention of Hiei having been the creator of such a tasty treat. Hiei was an absolutely amazing cook, but when her creations took a turn for the worse, they often were found out the hard way. So she considered her wariness and disbelief quite warranted.
"Heavens, no." Arizona gestured to much of the ongoing cooking. "I am merely keeping an eye on things and following her instructions accordingly."
"You're not quite ready to take on this kind of task?" she asked innocently.
"I am willing, but not yet ready."
"Fair enough." Jintsuu smiled and polished off the last morsel of cookie. She could not help but let that silly expression cross her features again. This was a most dangerous thing indeed. "Then, I shall do as you suggest and go get changed. And hopefully not get run over in the process."
The pounding of feet and rambunctious shouting of the decoration crew reached their ears.
"We may hope. Though you would not be the first and likely not be the last."
Jintsuu arched an eyebrow inquisitively as she took another bite of sinfully delicious baked goods. Arizona was being quite talkative this evening. Odd, but nice to see. Perhaps that shell of hers was starting to give a little. Or she happened to catch her in just the right mood. Either way, she wouldn't complain.
"They bowled over the Lieutenant Commander not even five minutes after being given decorations to hang." Both girls had been given a cautionary scolding by their victim, but it was for naught as they were zipping around again soon after. Arizona crossed her arms and huffed. "At least they've managed to avoid breaking anything. Or plow into my sister."
Jintsuu blinked.
That was something she genuinely was concerned about not knowing.
"Arizona, I would greatly appreciate an explanation." Preferably as of about... five seconds after the most volatile ship in Sasebo had been given an invitation. Ideally before it had been done in the first place. "I mean no offense, but Pennsylvania is not the most personable of ships."
"...No, no she is not." Arizona wished she had more of a defense for Pennsylvania, but there was little to be found. Pennsy's scars and hate ran deep. Down to the keel and suffused into her steel. Love and hard effort had begun to ease her own sufferings were she to admit it, but they were still small bandages for a gaping wound. Whatever would help soothe her sister's heart would not be a small thing.
Jintsuu remained silent and continued waiting for an answer. There might be cheer and good spirit filling her home, but she could not let this slip by unnoticed. This was her home and this was her family.
"I asked John if his invitation to the fleet included her and he said yes." Arizona turned to check the myriad foods Hiei had placed under her watch. So far so good. The potatoes were almost done, so she'd need to get the garlic ready. "I admit I questioned his decision. But he said that if she can't shelve her anger for a single evening like this, then he would be arranging sessions with a counselor."
Jintsuu sighed.
That man refused to let anyone fall to the wayside.
Even someone so dangerous as Pennsylvania.
"We did tell you he would not allow you to languish. It would be hypocritical of us all to cast aside your sister." She smiled with a mixture of resignation and amusement. "Despite how difficult she will be."
"Yeah, he's not that much of an ass."
Both warships turned to the new voice and beheld Hiei clad in jeans and a positively mind-bending dazzle camouflage sweater. Their gazes slowly went cross-eyed as they unwittingly tried to follow the patterns of green, white, and red. Jintsuu even felt herself listing to one side. But for the life of her, she couldn't tell which.
Hiei grinned at their reactions before snapping her fingers with a laugh.
"Eyes up here ladies."
"Hiei... What is that?" Jintsuu managed to ask as she tried to do as was asked of her.
"Cotton based quantum refraction apparel rated for medium level urban camouflage employing Kongou-Class particle entanglement principles."
"...Pardon?"
"Bad Christmas sweater. An All-American tradition!" Hiei gave a thumbs up which finally snapped Arizona out of her stupor. Wow, she really picked a good one if she did say so herself.
"I have concerns about what you consider All-American."
"As do I."
"Hmph. Everyone's a critic."
The sound of an oven timer going off alerted all to the fact that the casserole within was more than likely due for some attention.
"Right! Ari, you handle that. I'll work on the potatoes." Hiei didn't waste a single moment as she became a flurry of activity. Right alongside her was Arizona, tending to dinner with a deft hand. It felt good to work together like this. She glanced over to the only cruiser present. "Jintsuu, go get changed already. Relax. Take a load off. Go pester Mutsu or someone. We've got this."
Jintsuu hesitated for a few moments before acquiescing with a smile.
"Oh, very well. I suppose I don't have much choice but to make myself comfortable."
"That's the spirit!"
"With another cookie for the road."
* * * * *
Jintsuu traipsed down the stairs with a merry smile on her face and clad in infinitely more comfortable garments.
Her duty uniform was hardly uncomfortable, but the mental release of being in something so much more casual was understandably absent.
Hence her choice of stormtrooper themed sweater and oversized skirt-one of Mutsu's-fastened just enough to not slip off her hips. A pair of long, fuzzy socks and her ever present green ribbon completed the ensemble. And oh how wonderful it felt.
An amused giggle escaped her as the sounds of Mutsu and Richardson attempting to do some last minute wrapping of presents reached her. It would seem that her Admiral's XO was having a slight bit of difficulty with the tape. She could offer to help, but she would rather let them have their fun and amusement unobstructed. It wasn't like she couldn't find out all the details later anyways~
With a reckless hop, she bounded over the last few steps and landed perfectly at the base of the stairs.
This time she was more than ready for the destroyer/daughter maelstrom that came barrelling past her. Arizona's mostly fruitless cautions reached her radio room a few moments later. Perhaps Hiei ought to weigh in? Then again, the Emperor's Ship might decide to have some fun herself and join in. Something that would no doubt irritate the redhead even further.
...Speaking of redheads.
Jintsuu rounded the corner and beheld the infinitely more troublesome and dangerous of the two Pennsylvania-Class battleships: the nameship herself.
"Good evening, Miss Pennsylvania."
Pennsylvania simply turned to regard her with a furious red gaze. The standard's grip on the arms of her armchair tightened noticeably.
"Would you like a snack before dinner? Maybe something to drink?" asked Jintsuu politely. When no answer was forthcoming, she all but glided over to the sofa across from Pennsylvania and flopped down without a shred of elegance. "It will be your loss if all the cookies get eaten first."
"I don't want anything." Pennsylvania nearly growled out her response. She didn't want to be here. She didn't want to participate in this revelry. Not when it was hosted by Japanese boats and a flag officer who was far too close to said boats and her sister. It was only Arizona's presence that brought her here tonight. Nothing else.
"You want to be far, far away from here. Where you don't have to see what Japan has become and how close we are to America." Jintsuu leaned back against the plush sofa was a small smile. She did not allow it to grow as she saw the standard's ire rise. "Safe and sound with Arizona. With Utah and Oklahoma. With Cassin and Downes. Somewhere you can protect them from us and somewhere that you can make us pay all at the same time."
Pennsylvania growled, but did not lash out.
"Am I correct?"
"...To the letter."
"I thought so."
The carols playing over the stereo filled the ensuing silence. Jintsuu setting further into her seat with a murmur of contentment and Pennsylvania leaning forward with a conflicted and grouchy expression.
It was Pennsylvania who finally broke it.
"Are they back?"
Jintsuu remained silent.
"Who has come back?" she very nearly demanded.
"None of those four if that's what you mean. Vestal is in Washington though." She arched her back with a satisfied mewling sound as her back loosened. "She's apparently one of the greatest blessings you Americans have received. A good repair ship goes a long way. And her probably more than any other."
"Hmph. Of course. She was caring for the wounded even though she was ablaze herself." Pennsylvania crossed her arms assertively as she spoke, her voice not a snarl for once. If it hadn't been for Vestal, how many more would have sunk or died? And those were the actions of one ship. One crew. So many more had gone above and beyond that morning.
The silence settled in again.
Jingle Bells began to play and Hiei's laughter echoed from the kitchen.
They could hear Arizona cautioning Shimakaze about running with food and the wonder that was the destroyer actually agreeing.
"Miss Pennsylvania, may I ask something of you?" Jintsuu placed her hands in her lap and squared her shoulders.
"What?"
"Just for tonight. May I ask for a ceasefire?" She did not bow her head. No. Rather she matched gazes with the standard and kept it there.
"Why the devil do you want a ceasefire? We're not at war against each other." Pennsylvania gave Jintsuu a look of incredulity. Had the cruiser been hit in the head one too many times? Granted, war would let her finally take her vengeance in the most final manner possible. But that would pull how many lives down along with it?
"Because there are traditions and precedent for enemies laying down arms for Christmas." Jintsuu narrowed her gaze. "And whether you admit it or even realize it, I believe the war never ended for you. That's what your actions ever since your return have told me. So this is the only way I can think of for you and my family to have Christmas together."
There was a rictus of undiluted anger growing on the red eyed standard's face. And if her hands had returned to the armrests, they may have been shattered.
"You... you think y-!"
"Do it for Arizona if no one else."
Pennsylvania looked as if she'd just been slapped by the Secretary of the Navy.
"She still has her nightmares. The demons in her heart refuse to leave her be. The failures and missed chances of her past still cloud her. She's a stubborn old prude and there are times she is genuinely difficult to be around." Jintsuu pointed towards the kitchen. "But she's happy. She has friends, family, even rivals."
"They were the ones who-!"
"And she has made her peace. Hiei was part of the fleet that destroyed your world and now they're friends. Rivals even. Ask Kaga and she will tell you how her offer to end her life in recompense after the war was quite viciously thrown out the proverbial window." There was a measure of ice in Jintsuu's voice, but she needed it. She needed every bit of her composure to speak through the belt armor of Pennsylvania's heart. Not break. Just speak.
"Just for tonight, I ask for an armistice."
Pennsylvania struggled to find words. Her hatred staggered and the fire in her heart flickered. She could wrap up all these words in the guise of brainwashing. She could. But something about doing so felt... wrong. Just this one time.
She stood and crossed the distance to Jintsuu, who still sat firm in her ridiculous sweater. It would be so easy to reach out and break her. But... why didn't the thirst for blood boil up? Why did the thought sour on her tongue?
"...Just who are you?"
"I am my Admiral's yeoman." Jintsuu smiled warmly.
"That's only a half truth." Pennsylvania clenched her fists at her side. She made her decision. "Just... just for tonight. But only if you tell me who you really are."
Jintsuu's smile warmed.
"A lord needs a retainer, does he not?"
Pennsylvania shivered for the second time since meeting the Sendai. And she doubted it would be the last. But a promise was a promise. Even to a subject of hate.
"I'll give you peace for tonight. Just tonight. Tomorrow we're allies again and nothing more." Damn this madhouse and all the mind warping menaces within! But if she were to be a warship of her word, then she could not remain distanced as she was. "...I will go help set the table."
Jintsuu nodded with an approving look.
"Thank you, Miss Pennsylvania. I truly mean it."
Pennsylvania huffed and left the room, stopping only to hang her worn-out greatcoat along the way.
After a few moments, Jintsuu let out a breath and let herself relax. That had been harder than she thought. But at least there was hope yet. No armor was invulnerable. And Arizona was the easiest and most effective means of getting past Pennsylvania's.
She didn't care how cruel or underhanded it might be. If it helped bring a modicum of peace, then so be it.
For Pennsylvania's sake.
For the sake of Japan and America.
For her family's sake.
Jintsuu turned her eyes towards an approaching figure.
"My, my... It's dangerous to take on a battleship by yourself." Mutsu smiled as she walked over to take a seat next to Jintsuu. This woman did so much of her own accord... Really now. She wrapped an arm around her and pulled the cruiser into a hug.
"We both know I've done far more crazy things than that," replied Jintsuu with a laugh. "And it was well worth it. Pennsylvania is hurt in a way none of us can really understand completely."
"Close, but not all the way, hm? I'd be worried if one of us could." Mutsu raised her free hand and pointed towards the growing cacophony as Pennsylvania tried to help. "But you might have made a tiny bit of progress."
Jintsuu giggled.
"And a little progress is better than none, our Lady Retainer~"
"Erk!"
Mutsu laughed as Jintsuu turned bright red.
"Merry Christmas, Jintsuu."
"Merry Christmas."
* * * * *
Last edited:
Stahor
BookWorm
- Location
- Russia, Moscow
- Location
- Deep in the Badlands of Equestria
Yeah... if Hiei sortied like that, it would be a question of whether she took damage from the enemy, or if she suffered a friendly fire incident.
DrexelDragonz
[Plushie Maker] Drawing cute things
- Location
- Philippines
BLOOPERS (BELATED BATTLESHIP)
-Arizona's summoning-
SCENE 1, TAKE 1, ACTION!
Once more that whistle sounded. Starting low and shifting high.
When Mutsu finished, he raised the megaphone and drew in a deep breath.
Then he roared.
"GENERAL QUARTERS! GENERAL QUARTERS! ALL HANDS MAN YOUR BATTLESTATIONS!"
There was silence as the band finally stopped.
And then the light dimmed.
A churning sound placed all eyes upon the sea. A growing froth spread violently as flames licked the epicenter. A gloved hand breached the dark waters and slammed down upon the surface. It was joined by a second as their owner struggled to pull itself free from whatever chains still tried to bind it.
After a few minutes of waiting the hand was still trying to pull itself out. "Uhm, isn't she suppose to get out?" random navy officer 1 said, suddenly the hand waves. "What she doing?" Mutsu asked everyone was confused. The hand waves faster the other was banging on the surface, "Oh my gosh! She's drowning!" Wash exclaimed. Panicking Jersey and Wash jump into the water and pulled out the owner of the hand. A wet Arizona broke through the surface, passed out.
"I know CPR! Burning Love!" Kongou enters the scene, she runs to get momentum and drop kicked the passed out Arizona.
"CUT!" the director bellowed, rubbing the bridge of his nose.
SCENE 1, TAKE 2, ACTION!
A churning sound placed all eyes upon the sea. A growing froth spread violently as flames licked the epicenter. A gloved hand breached the dark waters and slammed down upon the surface. It was joined by a second as their owner struggled to pull itself free from whatever chains still tried to bind it. The sound of straining shaft preceded the figure finally pulling itself free with a great heave of the sea.
Instead of Arizona a certain lewd marine broke through the surface like some sort of mermaid.
"IKU~ is here!" she was wearing a sea shelled bra and fake mermaid fins.
The director groans and bang his head with the script his holding. Jersey laughed; Wash's face was between a grimace and confusion. Gale was hiding her face on Wash's shoulder, her shoulders shaking. Crowning just coughed. Everyone else palmed their faces. The fletchers plus Jane where cheering.
"CUT!" the director shouted throwing his script at the submarine. Richardson just sighed.
SCENE 1, TAKE 3, ACTION!
A churning sound placed all eyes upon the sea. A growing froth spread violently as flames licked the epicenter. A gloved hand breached the dark waters and slammed down upon the surface. It was joined by a second as their owner struggled to pull itself free from whatever chains still tried to bind it. The sound of straining shaft preceded the figure finally pulling itself free with a great heave of the sea.
"DECHI~" this time it was Goya that broke through the surface. "I need more screen time-Dechi!"
"CUT!" the director yelled, he was losing his patience it was obvious.
SCENE 1, TAKE 4, ACTION!
A churning sound placed all eyes upon the sea. A growing froth spread violently as flames licked the epicenter. A gloved hand breached the dark waters and slammed down upon the surface. It was joined by a second as their owner struggled to pull itself free from whatever chains still tried to bind it. The sound of straining shaft preceded the figure finally pulling itself free with a great heave of the sea.
This time it was really Arizona -the crew silently cheered-
Wide, mad eyes scanned the crowds until they locked on the closest officer: Richardson.
Arizona did a spit take and puts a gloved hand on her mouth. The others were looking away, "What?" Richardson asked, he looks down and saw that his pants were gone, on the floor was a piece of paper the words 'Albie was here!' written. He's brow twitched, "ALBACORE!" he shouted,
"CUT!" the director shouted, trying his darndest not to laugh.
SCENE 1, TAKE 70, ACTION!
A churning sound placed all eyes upon the sea. A growing froth spread violently as flames licked the epicenter. A gloved hand breached the dark waters and slammed down upon the surface. It was joined by a second as their owner struggled to pull itself free from whatever chains still tried to bind it. The sound of straining shaft preceded the figure finally pulling itself free with a great heave of the sea.
Wide, mad eyes scanned the crowds until they locked onto the closest officer: Richardson.
The woman in the navy long coat stepped forward, and slipped on nothing. With a cute 'eep' Arizona met the water face first, "Did Arizona just said 'eep'?" Mutsu asked the others were staring at the battleship.
And to their surprise was blushing. "Kyaa~ that was so cute!" Pennsylvania shrieked they all chocked on their own spit. "Ari-mama was so cute!" Jane joined in.
"CUT!" the director went to his knees, and bangs his head on the ground.
SCENE 1, TAKE 91, ACTION!
'For the love of God! Please no more.' The director thought to himself. He was cradling his head, a crazy look on his face.
A churning sound placed all eyes upon the sea. A growing froth spread violently as flames licked the epicenter. A gloved hand breached the dark waters and slammed down upon the surface. It was joined by a second as their owner struggled to pull itself free from whatever chains still tried to bind it. The sound of straining shaft preceded the figure finally pulling itself free with a great heave of the sea.
"I-8 HACHI!" the glasses wearing submarine was the one who crushed the shooting this time.
"FUCK THIS SHIT! I QUIT!" the director bellowed, he threw the script away and walks out.
Everyone looks at each other, "I heard that Kongou is making scones." Jersey said, the crowd cheers and run to the mess hall.
"I need more screen time!" Hachi shouted.
"DECHI!"
-Arizona's summoning-
SCENE 1, TAKE 1, ACTION!
Once more that whistle sounded. Starting low and shifting high.
When Mutsu finished, he raised the megaphone and drew in a deep breath.
Then he roared.
"GENERAL QUARTERS! GENERAL QUARTERS! ALL HANDS MAN YOUR BATTLESTATIONS!"
There was silence as the band finally stopped.
And then the light dimmed.
A churning sound placed all eyes upon the sea. A growing froth spread violently as flames licked the epicenter. A gloved hand breached the dark waters and slammed down upon the surface. It was joined by a second as their owner struggled to pull itself free from whatever chains still tried to bind it.
After a few minutes of waiting the hand was still trying to pull itself out. "Uhm, isn't she suppose to get out?" random navy officer 1 said, suddenly the hand waves. "What she doing?" Mutsu asked everyone was confused. The hand waves faster the other was banging on the surface, "Oh my gosh! She's drowning!" Wash exclaimed. Panicking Jersey and Wash jump into the water and pulled out the owner of the hand. A wet Arizona broke through the surface, passed out.
"I know CPR! Burning Love!" Kongou enters the scene, she runs to get momentum and drop kicked the passed out Arizona.
"CUT!" the director bellowed, rubbing the bridge of his nose.
SCENE 1, TAKE 2, ACTION!
A churning sound placed all eyes upon the sea. A growing froth spread violently as flames licked the epicenter. A gloved hand breached the dark waters and slammed down upon the surface. It was joined by a second as their owner struggled to pull itself free from whatever chains still tried to bind it. The sound of straining shaft preceded the figure finally pulling itself free with a great heave of the sea.
Instead of Arizona a certain lewd marine broke through the surface like some sort of mermaid.
"IKU~ is here!" she was wearing a sea shelled bra and fake mermaid fins.
The director groans and bang his head with the script his holding. Jersey laughed; Wash's face was between a grimace and confusion. Gale was hiding her face on Wash's shoulder, her shoulders shaking. Crowning just coughed. Everyone else palmed their faces. The fletchers plus Jane where cheering.
"CUT!" the director shouted throwing his script at the submarine. Richardson just sighed.
SCENE 1, TAKE 3, ACTION!
A churning sound placed all eyes upon the sea. A growing froth spread violently as flames licked the epicenter. A gloved hand breached the dark waters and slammed down upon the surface. It was joined by a second as their owner struggled to pull itself free from whatever chains still tried to bind it. The sound of straining shaft preceded the figure finally pulling itself free with a great heave of the sea.
"DECHI~" this time it was Goya that broke through the surface. "I need more screen time-Dechi!"
"CUT!" the director yelled, he was losing his patience it was obvious.
SCENE 1, TAKE 4, ACTION!
A churning sound placed all eyes upon the sea. A growing froth spread violently as flames licked the epicenter. A gloved hand breached the dark waters and slammed down upon the surface. It was joined by a second as their owner struggled to pull itself free from whatever chains still tried to bind it. The sound of straining shaft preceded the figure finally pulling itself free with a great heave of the sea.
This time it was really Arizona -the crew silently cheered-
Wide, mad eyes scanned the crowds until they locked on the closest officer: Richardson.
Arizona did a spit take and puts a gloved hand on her mouth. The others were looking away, "What?" Richardson asked, he looks down and saw that his pants were gone, on the floor was a piece of paper the words 'Albie was here!' written. He's brow twitched, "ALBACORE!" he shouted,
"CUT!" the director shouted, trying his darndest not to laugh.
SCENE 1, TAKE 70, ACTION!
A churning sound placed all eyes upon the sea. A growing froth spread violently as flames licked the epicenter. A gloved hand breached the dark waters and slammed down upon the surface. It was joined by a second as their owner struggled to pull itself free from whatever chains still tried to bind it. The sound of straining shaft preceded the figure finally pulling itself free with a great heave of the sea.
Wide, mad eyes scanned the crowds until they locked onto the closest officer: Richardson.
The woman in the navy long coat stepped forward, and slipped on nothing. With a cute 'eep' Arizona met the water face first, "Did Arizona just said 'eep'?" Mutsu asked the others were staring at the battleship.
And to their surprise was blushing. "Kyaa~ that was so cute!" Pennsylvania shrieked they all chocked on their own spit. "Ari-mama was so cute!" Jane joined in.
"CUT!" the director went to his knees, and bangs his head on the ground.
SCENE 1, TAKE 91, ACTION!
'For the love of God! Please no more.' The director thought to himself. He was cradling his head, a crazy look on his face.
A churning sound placed all eyes upon the sea. A growing froth spread violently as flames licked the epicenter. A gloved hand breached the dark waters and slammed down upon the surface. It was joined by a second as their owner struggled to pull itself free from whatever chains still tried to bind it. The sound of straining shaft preceded the figure finally pulling itself free with a great heave of the sea.
"I-8 HACHI!" the glasses wearing submarine was the one who crushed the shooting this time.
"FUCK THIS SHIT! I QUIT!" the director bellowed, he threw the script away and walks out.
Everyone looks at each other, "I heard that Kongou is making scones." Jersey said, the crowd cheers and run to the mess hall.
"I need more screen time!" Hachi shouted.
"DECHI!"
No, no. That's *incoherently salty ENTIRE FUCKING FLEET noises*
She's got the game ball and all the uniforms tucked away in her hold. And Iku beat her to actually stealing the players.