Chapter 3: Veil of Awakening
The JS Yamato sliced through the mystic sea, carrying its formidable occupants toward the Azur Lane base. On the deck, the shipgirls gathered, the wind carrying the whispers of uncertainty. The recent battle left an indelible mark on Yamato, her 9-Tailed Kitsune Fox features now a permanent and majestic part of her being.
As the ship sailed, a camaraderie formed among the shipgirls. Amagi, Enterprise, Javelin, and Laffey engaged in conversations about the recent events. The topic naturally shifted towards Yamato's transformation, her 9-Tailed Kitsune Fox features that adorned her, and the newfound powers that came with them.
Yamato, looking contemplative, expressed her thoughts. "It feels like a part of me has awakened, a connection to something ancient and powerful. The Kitsune spirit within me grants a sense of heightened awareness and an affinity with the mystic energies around us."
Amagi nodded in understanding, her eyes reflecting a mix of pride and affection. "You've embraced the legacy within you, my love. These powers will be crucial in the battles that lie ahead. Embrace them as a testament to the strength of our lineage."
Meanwhile, at the base, Belfast stood at the docks, anticipating the return of the shipgirls. Her perceptive gaze caught the sight of the approaching JS Yamato. As the ship docked, the shipgirls disembarked, and Belfast approached with a welcoming smile.
Upon seeing Yamato, Amagi, and Enterprise, Belfast's eyes widened in a moment of realization. "It seems the family has grown. From 32 to 41 ships, and it's not just a mere numerical increase." She hugged each of them in turn, feeling the newfound energy emanating from Yamato.
"But there is something more," Belfast continued. "In the Commander's office, I sensed the awakening of dormant wisdom cubes, I got there I saw four of them, along with an unknown device atop Yamato's desk. It appears the mystic sea has more secrets to reveal."
Intrigued by Belfast's revelation, Yamato, Amagi, and Enterprise exchanged glances.
In the Commander's office, the ship girls gathered, their gazes shifting between the dormant wisdom cubes and the mysterious device atop Yamato's desk. The room pulsed with latent energies, echoing the mystic sea that surrounded them.
Yamato, sporting her Admiralty hat, sat behind the desk. As the hat graced her head, the 9-Tailed Kitsune features vanished, leaving her looking like a conventional ship girl or human depending on the person looking at her. Intrigued by this transformation, Amagi inquired, "Is this the seal you mentioned, my love?"
Yamato nodded, her expression thoughtful. "Yes, this hat acts as a seal, concealing my Kitsune features. It allows me to navigate among others without drawing unnecessary attention."
With a slight smile, Yamato removed the hat, and instantly, the 9-Tailed Kitsune features returned. The room shimmered with mystic energy as the ship girls marveled at the transformation. "It's a unique way to blend in when needed," Enterprise remarked, admiring the intricacies of Yamato's newfound abilities.
As the ship girls continued to explore the mystical artifacts, Yamato's attention turned to the unknown device. A sense of familiarity washed over her as she picked it up, revealing her personal SAMSUNG Galaxy TabActive4 Pro 10.1" 128GB 5G Android Work Tablet. Memories flooded back from her human days in her world.
Powering on the tablet, Yamato discovered that all the information from her past life remained intact. The Azur Lanes app, the records, and the digital remnants of her human self—everything persisted within the device. The tablet had become a bridge connecting her past to the present in this mystic realm.
Amagi, Belfast, and Enterprise gathered around, captivated by the revelations unfolding before them. The room echoed discussions about the connection between Yamato's past and the mystical forces at play in Azur Lanes.
Amagi, Belfast, and Enterprise stood behind Yamato, their eyes fixed on the glowing screen of the Personal Tablet. With a sense of anticipation, Yamato navigated to the summon ship girls feature on the Azur Lanes app. The room pulsed with mystic energy as four wisdom cubes shimmered, aligning with the summoning process about to unfold.
Clicking the button, Yamato initiated the summoning. The air quivered with otherworldly currents as the mystical energies converged. However, when the summoning ritual reached its climax, two figures materialized before them, not the expected ship girls from the app, but Musashi and Shinano.
Surprise rippled through the room, momentarily halting the shipgirls and their commander. The two newcomers, Musashi and Shinano, stood gracefully, their eyes reflecting a mix of gratitude and determination.
Musashi, the elder of the two, spoke first, "Thank you for summoning us, Commander. We pledge to serve under your command faithfully. Please guide us as we embark on this journey together."
Shinano, the younger sibling, echoed her sister's sentiments, "Yes, Commander. We entrust ourselves to your care and leadership. Thank you for welcoming us into Azur Lanes."
Yamato, still seated at her desk, processed the unexpected turn of events. After a moment of initial shock, she rose, setting the tablet down and removing her Admiralty hat. As the hat left her head, the 9-Tailed Kitsune features resurfaced, stunning Musashi and Shinano at her transformation.
Walking up to her newfound little sisters, Yamato smiled, her eyes glistening with emotion. "Welcome, Musashi and Shinano. I am JS Yamato, the remodeled and remade form of IJN Yamato, but still the same person. It's wonderful to see you both again after so, so long...my Imōto's (little sisters)."
Musashi, overcome with emotion, embraced her older sister, tears streaming down her face. Shinano, equally moved, joined the heartfelt reunion, murmuring, "It's truly you, Ane (big sister). You are here."
As the room basked in the warmth of the emotional reunion between Yamato and her little sisters, Musashi and Shinano, Amagi, Belfast, and Enterprise offered their heartfelt congratulations.
Amagi, her eyes gleaming with joy, spoke, "It warms my heart to see the three of you together again. This is truly a blessed moment."
Belfast, her maid-like demeanor softened by a smile, added, "Indeed, Commander. Family bonds are irreplaceable. Congratulations on your reunion with Musashi and Shinano, Milady."
Enterprise, who had been a silent observer, stepped forward, "I watched over you as you grew up in our world, Yamato. This reunion was destined. Cherish these moments."
Just as the congratulations filled the room, Yamato's Personal Tablet seemed to sense the significance of the occasion. A new icon, pulsating with an ethereal glow, appeared on the Azur Lanes app. Yamato, fueled by curiosity, tapped on the mysterious icon.
In an instant, the tablet's screen transformed, projecting a holographic map of the Azur Lanes base. Sectors and facilities were highlighted, and the fleet composition, ongoing missions, and potential threats were displayed in real time. Notably, the ship girls that are bound to Yamato, her little sisters, Musashi and Shinano—appeared with a radiant golden glow, indicating their positions and status.
Yamato marveled at the technological marvel before her. The names of her connected ships shimmered with the same golden hue, whether they were present at the base or engaged in missions elsewhere. The map provided an unprecedented level of insight, granting Yamato a comprehensive view of the fleet's activities and the safety of her sister ships.
As she explored the features of the holographic map, Yamato felt a newfound sense of responsibility settling upon her shoulders. The golden glow on the names of her connected ships symbolized a bond that extended beyond the physical, connecting their fates in ways she was yet to comprehend.
With determination in her eyes, Yamato addressed her little sisters and the others, "This new capability will allow us to coordinate more effectively and respond swiftly to any threats to the base. Let us use this gift wisely to protect our friends and our world."
As Yamato and her companions continued to explore the holographic map on the Azur Lanes app, they came across a special feature, a section that showcased incoming reinforcements to the base. A few taps revealed the identities of the ships en route with the route that they were taking, the time it would take to get to the base, and their pleasant surprise, it included the Eagle Union fleet led by Hornet.
Eager to witness the arrival of the reinforcements, Yamato, Musashi, Shinano, Amagi, Belfast, and Enterprise gathered around the holographic display. The map projected the current location of Hornet's fleet, slowly making its way toward the Azur Lanes base.
With a sense of anticipation, Yamato clicked on the fleet's icon, and the holographic map zoomed in to provide a closer view of Hornet's formation. The ships, familiar from their past encounters, sailed steadily through the virtual representation of the ocean.
Suddenly, a warning signal blared, capturing the attention of everyone in the room. The holographic display shifted, revealing a combined fleet of Iron Blood, Sakura Empire, and Siren's ships converging on Hornet's fleet.
Yamato's eyes narrowed as she assessed the situation. "It seems we have an incoming threat. Iron Blood, Sakura Empire, and Siren's ships are targeting Hornet's fleet."
Enterprise, her expression focused, stepped forward. "We need to act quickly. Hornet and her fleet might not be aware of the impending danger. Let's coordinate a counterattack and ensure their safe arrival."
Belfast, always composed, added, "Milady, it appears that your duties as a commander have just begun. Shall we prepare for battle and guide Hornet's fleet to safety?"
Yamato, her sense of responsibility deepening, nodded. "Indeed, let us face this challenge together. Coordinate with the fleet, and let our allies know we are ready to defend them."
As the holographic map continued to update in real-time, the shipgirls prepared for the impending battle. The fate of Hornet's fleet hung in the balance, and Azur Lane's defenders stood ready to face the combined might of Iron Blood and Sakura Empire. The echoes of battle once again reverberated through the base as the shipgirls rallied to protect their allies.
Under the pulsating glow of the holographic display, Yamato swiftly formulated a plan to intercept Hornet's fleet and counter the impending threat from Iron Blood, Sakura Empire, and Siren's. The commander and shipgirls geared up for the upcoming engagement.
"Amagi, Belfast, stay vigilant and coordinate with the base's defenses. Ensure our home remains secure," Yamato instructed as she donned her admiral hat, momentarily concealing her 9-tailed Kitsune features.
Amagi nodded gracefully, her eyes reflecting both concern and confidence. "We shall guard the base with utmost care, Commander Yamato. May fortune favor your fleet."
Belfast, standing by Amagi's side, added, "Rest assured, Commander. We'll handle any situation that arises here."
As the fleet under Yamato's command set sail to intercept Hornet's task force and confront the enemy, the atmosphere onboard JS Yamato (BBG-1) grew tense yet resolute. The shipgirls, bound by their connection to the commander, prepared for battle.
On the holographic map, the positions of Hornet's fleet and the approaching Iron Blood and Sakura Empire vessels became clearer. The tension escalated as the distance between the two forces closed.
"Musashi, Shinano, Enterprise, Cleveland, prepare for engagement. We need to ensure the safe passage of Hornet's fleet back to the base," Yamato declared, her voice projecting command and determination.
As JS Yamato and her accompanying fleet sailed towards the meeting point, the holographic display showed the momentary clash between Hornet's task force and the attacking ships. Explosions and flares of light marked the commencement of battle.
Yamato's eyes narrowed as she observed the unfolding situation. "Prepare for battle stations. We intervene once Hornet's fleet comes within our operational range."
The shipgirls responded with efficiency, assuming their positions on the decks of JS Yamato. The rhythmic hum of the ship's engines resonated with the collective determination of the fleet.
In the distance, the outlines of Hornet's ships came into view. The sight of the beleaguered task force spurred Yamato's fleet into action.
"Let's move, sisters. We protect our allies and secure the base's perimeter. For Azur Lane!" Yamato exclaimed, her 9-tailed Kitsune features momentarily hidden under the admiral hat as the fleet accelerated towards the impending clash. The fate of Hornet's fleet and the security of Azur Lanes hung in the balance, awaiting the outcome of this crucial confrontation.
As the holographic map displayed the unfolding battle, Yamato's fleet moved swiftly to intercept both Hornet's task force and the approaching Iron Blood and Sakura Empire vessels. Onboard JS Yamato, the shipgirls prepared for the imminent clash.
Meanwhile, Battleship Queen Elizabeth, part of the Royal Navy's flotilla en route to the base, received a call from Azur Lane's command. As she learned of the battle and the impending arrival of her fellow Royal Navy ships, she considered sending reinforcements. However, the power and prowess of Yamato's fleet, conveyed through the detailed holographic map, made any additional assistance unnecessary.
"No need to send reinforcements, my dear. JS Yamato and her fleet are more than capable," Queen Elizabeth remarked.
Back on the battlefield, Yamato showcased her formidable armament skills, seamlessly transitioning from engaging enemy planes with her 20mm guns to intercepting incoming torpedoes with the precision of her 40cm cannons. The shipgirls, united by their connection to Yamato, fought with coordinated efficiency.
In a daring display of strength, Yamato engaged in a one-on-one duel of blades with Zuikaku. With her admiralty hat removed, her 9-tailed Kitsune features emerged, and the wisdom core glowed, highlighting the formidable power she wielded. As the clash reached its climax, the wisdom cubes of Prinz Eugen, Shoukaku, Zuikaku, Hornet, and Arizona glowed in unison, establishing a connection with JS Yamato.
The battle reached its conclusion, leaving the once-threatening forces scattered and defeated. JS Yamato's fleet emerged victorious, their prowess evident in the remnants of the enemy fleet.
Enterprise, standing beside Yamato, addressed Hornet and Arizona, "Your wisdom cores now bear the mark of the connection with JS Yamato. It signifies a bond beyond the battlefield. Return to your dorms, and the details will become clearer as well the connection as it gets to the point it is shown in a glow."
Back on JS Yamato, the shipgirls of both Yamato and Hornet fleets returned to the base, their victory shadowed by the gravity of Arizona's condition. Yamato, urgency etched across her features, donned her admiralty hat once more, ready to tend to the wounded.
As they gathered in the medical bay, Yamato directed her attention to Arizona, her usually composed demeanor giving way to deep concern. She swiftly connected a monitor to Arizona, revealing the extent of the battleship's damage. The girls watched in silence as the severity of Arizona's injuries became apparent.
In a sudden, intense moment, Yamato shouted a vehement "NO!" Her emotions surged as she refused to accept the possibility of losing another, her mind racing back to the historical tragedy of the USS Arizona at Pearl Harbor.
Belfast and Amagi appeared in a flash right next to Yamato's side, the gravity of the situation reflected in their eyes. As Yamato worked tirelessly to stabilize Arizona, she muttered two words to Amagi, "Cube and Connection." It was a cryptic message, but Amagi understood the significance.
The medical bay became a hive of activity, with the shipgirls rallying to support their fallen comrade. Yamato's hands moved with precision and a bit of speed, guided by a determination to defy the shadows of history. The screen displayed not only the ship girl Arizona undergoing repairs but also a poignant image of the Arizona Memorial, a tribute to the fallen heroes.
The ship girls gathered around the screen, witnessing the juxtaposition of a ship girl's past and present. Names of the fallen men adorned the memorial, a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made. The atmosphere in the medical bay hung heavy with the weight of history and the resilience of those determined to rewrite it.
As Yamato, Amagi, and Belfast continued their tireless efforts, the shipgirls held onto hope, their connection transcending the boundaries of time and fate. The medical bay became a crucible of determination, forging bonds that would shape the destiny of Azur Lanes.
Yamato's idle rigging, a manifestation of formidable power, carefully towed the near-sinking Arizona behind it. The skies above were guarded by planes from Hornet, Enterprise, and Shinano, forming a protective shield against any potential threats. The ship's medical team, led by Yamato, Amagi, and Belfast, worked tirelessly to stabilize Arizona, a task made challenging by the extent of her injuries.
Yamato, now bearing the visible scars of past battles, pressed on, her arms, legs, and chest stained with the blood of Azriona showed her efforts. Amagi and Belfast stood by her side, their collective focus directed at the critical task before them. Several ship girls, serving as makeshift nurses, offered their assistance to ensure that the medical team could continue their vital work without pause from handing medical items to dipping sponges to keep sweet out of Yamato's, Belfast's, and Amagi's eyes.
As the ships approached the base, Yamato initiated a unique strategy. Drawing upon the bond she shared with the shipgirls, including Arizona, she harnessed their collective strength to provide additional support. The monitors displaying Arizona's condition showed a gradual evening out, a sign that the collaborative effort was making an impact. Arizona's idle rigging, initially sinking, stabilized as the shipgirls shared determination echoed through the connection.
Surrounded by the protective formations of Hornet, Enterprise, Musashi, Shinano, and others, Yamato's idle rigging brought Arizona safely into the base. The arrival didn't go unnoticed, as both President Franklin D. Roosevelt of the Azur Lanes world and a young Queen Elizabeth II of the Royal Navy had come to witness the unprecedented event.
The base's speakers played a recorded speech by President Roosevelt from Yamato's world, commemorating the historic event of December 7th. However, the alarms within the base continued to blare, a testament to the critical condition of the wounded battleship. Despite the challenges, the base was prepared for their arrival, with shipgirls ready to take over the operation as soon as the damaged ship entered the harbor.
The awe-inspiring sight of Arizona's idle rigging, battered but intact, left a profound impact on those witnessing the arrival. Shipgirls and personnel alike, shocked by the damage sustained, quickly moved into action, guiding the near-sinking battleship to a secure berth where repair ships and personnel awaited to begin the extensive restoration process.
As they approached the designated berth for Arizona, Yamato's idle rigging carefully maneuvered the damaged battleship into position. The shipgirls of the base, having received the alert and prepared for the critical arrival, stood ready to take over the medical intervention. The repair ships, equipped with advanced technology and healing capabilities, awaited their turn to contribute to Arizona's recovery.
Yamato's expression remained focused, determination etched across her features. Her 9-tailed Kitsune Fox features, normally concealed by the admiralty hat, were now visible to those witnessing the scene. The scars of the battle were not just physical; they extended to the emotional and spiritual realms. Yamato, driven by an unspoken connection with her fellow shipgirls, channeled her energy into healing Arizona.
As Arizona's idle rigging settled into place, the medical team, guided by Yamato, began their meticulous work. Tools and equipment, designed to repair both ship girl and spirit, were deployed with precision. The base's advanced medical facilities hummed with activity, each shipgirl contributing their unique abilities to aid in the recovery process.
Amidst the organized chaos, Yamato's voice cut through, issuing instructions and reassurance. The bond she shared with the shipgirls, amplified by the wisdom cubes, resonated in the air. The collective strength of Azur Lanes was at play, converging to mend the wounds suffered by Arizona.
As time passed, the base personnel, President Franklin D. Roosevelt, Queen Elizabeth II, and other witnesses marveled at the resilience displayed
As the medical team continued their work on Arizona, Yamato, now bearing the visible scars of the intense battle, took a step back. Her, arms, legs, and chest were stained with the blood along with her hair as one of the wounds became a bleeder of her efforts to save the damaged battleship. Despite the apparent wear on her, she remained composed, her 9-tailed Kitsune Fox features visible as a testament to the intensity of the situation.
Turning away from the medical bay, Yamato faced the onlookers, including President Franklin D. Roosevelt, Queen Elizabeth II, and various witnesses. The weight of the recent events hung in the air as they collectively moved outside.
Queen Elizabeth II, aware of Yamato's identity from a previous encounter before the transition into this world, addressed her with familiarity. "Rank of Admiral looks good on you, Alima. It has been a long time since the last time you saw me was the day I passed."
Yamato's expression shifted from focus to shock. "Is that you, Liz?" she exclaimed, visibly surprised by the revelation.
The Queen nodded, acknowledging the shared history. "I would give you a hug Alima, but you're covered in blood, my old friend," she remarked, demonstrating a warmth that transcended the boundaries of time and reality.
Yamato, still processing the encounter, managed a half-smile. The connection between them, forged in a different world and time, now manifested anew. The scars on Yamato's body bore witness to the sacrifices made for the greater good, and Queen Elizabeth II, though separated by different realms, recognized the enduring spirit within her old friend.
Yamato engaged in a conversation with Queen Elizabeth II, affectionately known as "Liz," and President Franklin D. Roosevelt. As they exchanged words, their focus inevitably shifted to the admiral's insignia on Yamato's shoulder. The rank displayed was not merely a symbol; it was a testament to the battles fought, the alliances forged, and the leadership demonstrated in the ongoing conflict.
Queen Elizabeth II and President Roosevelt shared a moment of astonishment when they acknowledged the significance of the rank Yamato now bore. It was a visible acknowledgment of her earned authority, a reflection of the trust and respect bestowed upon her by the shipgirls, the base, and the nations they represented.
"You've certainly climbed the ranks quickly, Alima," President Roosevelt remarked, his admiration evident. "It's a testament to your leadership and the trust placed in you by your comrades."
Queen Elizabeth II added, "To think, the little one I knew as Alima has become the Admiral leading this formidable force. I am impressed, my friend."
Yamato, though now embodying the role of a leader in this world, still retained the essence of Alima within her. The scars of battles past and the responsibilities she now carried were etched into the fabric of her being.
Queen Elizabeth II and President Roosevelt bid their farewells, leaving the Azur Lanes base to attend to its ongoing matters. As they made their way out, Queen Elizabeth II, ever modern in her approach, hinted at the prospect of a future conversation over video communication.
"Alima, my dear, the next time we talk, it shall be over the cams," Queen Elizabeth II mentioned, a subtle nod to the technology she had brought with her – a laptop equipped with a webcam. It served as a bridge between their worlds, enabling them to maintain connections across the temporal and spatial boundaries that separated them.
Yamato, appreciating the gesture, nodded in agreement. The idea of communicating through modern technology with someone from her past world added a layer of intrigue to the unfolding events.
Yamato returned to the side of Arizona, still in the process of being monitored and attended to by the ship girls and repair crews. As she approached, a single ship girl caught her attention – Arizona's older sister, Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania, expressing gratitude for Yamato's efforts in saving her younger sister, extended her sincere thanks.
However, the moment took an unexpected turn as the wisdom cube within Pennsylvania glowed, establishing a connection with Yamato. The ethereal link between the ship girls hinted at the deeper, mystical bonds that connected them through the wisdom cubes. As the connection solidified, Yamato felt the presence of Pennsylvania within her thoughts, sharing not only words of gratitude but also a sense of camaraderie and unity.
This unexpected connection further emphasized the intricate web of relationships and shared experiences that defined the world of Azur Lanes. As the chapter concluded, Yamato stood beside Arizona and Pennsylvania, enveloped in the profound connections forged by the wisdom cubes that bound them together.